Finding a place to stay in China is easier than you might think. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to splurge, the country has a range of accommodation options to fit every travel style. From small hostels to luxury hotels, here are the best ways to find a place to stay when visiting China.
Budget Accommodations
If you’re traveling on a budget, China has plenty of affordable options. You don’t need to spend a lot to find a comfortable and convenient place to rest. Let’s start with budget-friendly choices:
Hostels
Hostels are popular throughout China, especially in major cities and tourist areas. Most hostels offer dorm-style rooms and private rooms, making them a versatile option for solo travelers and couples alike. Hostels can be found for as low as 50-80 CNY ($7-12) per night.
Popular hostel chains like YHA China have locations in nearly every major city, as well as smaller cities with big tourist draws like Guilin and Lijiang. These hostels usually have clean dorms, common areas, and often organize tours and activities.
Another great platform to check is Hostelworld or Booking.com for a wide range of options. Even if you don’t book through them, it’s a good idea to use these platforms to compare prices and read reviews.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are another popular budget option in China. These tend to be a bit more personal than hostels, offering private rooms in smaller buildings. Rooms are basic but clean, and you can typically find them in the 100-200 CNY ($15-30) range.
Many guesthouses are family-run, which can add an extra element of local charm to your stay. You’ll often see these around more rural or suburban areas of major cities. In tourist hotspots like Yangshuo and Dali, guesthouses are common and offer a more local experience than chain hotels.
Mid-Range Accommodations
If you’ve got a little more wiggle room in your budget, China has plenty of mid-range accommodations that offer more comfort without breaking the bank. Typically, you can find mid-range hotels for 200-500 CNY ($30-75) per night.
Business Hotels
China is full of simple business hotels that provide clean, basic rooms with modern amenities. Chains like 7 Days Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Jinjiang Inn are reliable options.
These hotels are often located near train stations, commercial districts, or in the heart of cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Rooms in these hotels are usually simple but well-maintained, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
Business hotels are perfect for travelers who need convenience and cleanliness but aren’t looking for luxury. Expect these stays to cost somewhere around 250-400 CNY per night.
Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels are becoming more popular in China, and they’re a great choice if you want something a bit more unique. Many boutique hotels are located in older buildings that have been renovated into beautiful accommodation spaces.
Towns like Huangshan and Pingyao are well-known for their quaint boutique hotels that make use of ancient architecture. Prices here can range from 300 to 800 CNY ($45-120), depending on the location and the hotel’s amenities.
Boutique hotels often focus on aesthetic design, personal service, and local charm. If you’re hoping for a more immersive experience with a cultural edge, boutique hotels might be for you.
Luxury Accommodations
If you’re looking to treat yourself, luxury hotels in China deliver top-notch experiences. You’ll find luxury options in all major cities and resort areas, with all the amenities you could ever want. Expect to pay anywhere from 800 to 3000 CNY ($120-450) per night or more for these premium stays.
Luxury Hotel Chains
Global chains like Shangri-La, Marriott, Four Seasons, and Ritz-Carlton all have flagship properties in Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities like Xi’an and Chengdu.
These hotels are known for their exceptional service, modern conveniences, and amazing views. The hotel restaurants often offer world-class cuisine, and many luxury hotels have spas and rooftop pools. If you’re after a 5-star experience with all the bells and whistles, these hotels won’t disappoint.
Traditional Courtyard Hotels
If you want luxury with a bit more historical charm, consider staying at a traditional courtyard hotel, especially in cities like Beijing. These are usually set in beautifully restored historical buildings, offering a serene and cultural experience.
In Beijing, many luxury courtyard hotels are located in the city’s hutongs (old narrow alleyways), giving you a breathtaking setting. Expect courtyard hotels to cost around 1200-2000 CNY ($180-300) per night.
Unique and Unusual Stays
If you’re looking for something memorable, China has some truly unique accommodation options that go beyond the traditional hotel or hostel stay. You can find plenty of one-of-a-kind experiences here.
Traditional Chinese Inns
In places like Lijiang or Wuyuan, traditional Chinese inns are an extraordinary way to experience historical architecture in a unique setting. These inns feature beautiful woodwork, stone courtyards, and period decor, offering a truly immersive experience in smaller ancient towns.
You can expect to pay 500-1000 CNY ($75-150) per night for these types of stays. They are often small, offering fewer rooms and more personal service than large hotels.
Nature Retreats
For nature lovers, parts of rural China offer eco-lodges and alpine chalets. For example, the Amanfayun Resort set in a secluded tea plantation outside Hangzhou is a luxury retreat that lets you experience the calm surroundings in style.
In Tiger Leaping Gorge, you can also find simple but charming mountain lodges that make great stops for hiking adventures.
Where to Stay in Major Cities
Beijing
When staying in Beijing, hotels around Wangfujing give you easy access to the main tourist sites like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. If you’d prefer to stay in a less touristy part of town, stay in the Sanlitun district, which is known for its nightlife and wide range of restaurants and bars.
For a more local experience, try staying in a hutong guesthouse in the older districts of the city. You’ll be close to the locals and have a chance to experience old Beijing life.
Shanghai
In Shanghai, staying near The Bund or People’s Square offers easy access to the city’s top attractions. If you’re interested in art and modern history, the French Concession area is full of quirky boutique hotels and Art Deco buildings.
If you’re looking for high-end stays, Pudong has some of the city’s best luxury hotels, many with fantastic views of the Shanghai skyline.
Xi’an
When visiting Xi’an, staying inside the old city walls puts you closer to the Bell Tower and the city’s vibrant Muslim Quarter. Many mid-range and boutique hotels can be found in this area.
If you want to be away from the crowds, consider staying near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, where you can enjoy nearby parks and Buddhist heritage sites.
Chengdu
If you’re visiting Chengdu to see the pandas and explore Sichuan culture, it’s best to stay around the Jinli Old Street or the Wuhou Temple area. You’ll find mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and even a few luxury establishments within walking distance of historic attractions.
The Chunxi Road area is another great place to stay, especially if shopping and dining are high on your list.
Tips for Booking Accommodations in China
When booking accommodations in China, it’s a good idea to use familiar websites like Booking.com, Agoda, or Ctrip. While many international platforms work for larger cities, Ctrip is your best bet for domestic travel or smaller towns as it offers a wide range of listings and reviews in both Chinese and English.
Always check whether your hotel allows foreign guests. In some parts of China, smaller hotels and guesthouses might only be registered to accept Chinese nationals, so it’s best to confirm this while booking.
If you are traveling during peak times like Chinese New Year, Labor Day, or Golden Week, make sure to book your accommodation as early as possible. Hotels in popular areas sell out quickly during these holidays.
Overall, China offers something for every budget and travel style. Whether you’re backpacking across the country or opting for a luxurious adventure, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to stay during your travels.
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