US & Canada: 1-800-315-3949Toll Free
Search
Great Wall, Beijing

China Tours from New York

Home / Tours / From USA

Tired of the fast pace and crowded streets of New York? Then consider a journey to China, an antiquated and mysterious country away from everything you know. No visit to China is complete without the Great Wall, a living testament to human ambition and endurance, snaking its way across rugged mountains. You will stand before the Terracotta Warriors, silent guardians of Emperor Qin Shi Huang for over two millennia. You can also explore Zhangjiajie, whose towering sandstone pillars rise from the mist and inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. Whatever draws you in, one thing is certain: China is well worth the trip. And a tour from New York is more convenient than you might expect: a direct flight takes about 11 to 15 hours, roughly a night’s sleep.

China’s vastness means no two journeys are ever the same. While the country is very safe for travelers, the language barrier and the sheer diversity of attractions to see mean that a well-planned itinerary is essential to truly experience its charm. With over 30 years of experience crafting China travel, we take care of all the details. For those seeking maximum flexibility, a private tour allows every detail to be tailored to your interests and schedule. If your vacation time is limited while you still want to see the highlights, a high-quality small group tour is an excellent choice. And for the adventurous traveler, independent travel is certainly possible too. Whatever style suits you best, we have options to match.

See More China Tours

Essential Tips for China Tours from New York

Apply for a tourist visa well before your trip.

If you are planning your first trip to China or have not visited in a while, you will need to obtain a tourist visa. Start by completing the online application, then wait for the status to update to “Ready for passport submission.” This process can take some time, so to ensure a smooth trip, it is advisable to begin your application at least one month in advance. Once your status is ready, bring your passport, printed application form, and a 2‑inch photo to the Chinese Consulate General in New York. Normal processing takes four working days. Keep in mind that mail‑in applications are not accepted, and you need to go to the consulate yourself or send an authorized representative.

You can fly nonstop from New York to major Chinese cities.

There are some direct flights connecting New York to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Fuzhou. Flights from New York to Beijing run four to five times a week, typically on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. Beyond that, Shanghai has the most frequent service with up to four flights per week, while Guangzhou has the fewest at just one weekly flight. The schedules for Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Fuzhou also vary by season.

If you have enough time, connecting flights are a cost-effective alternative. They may take longer but can be 30% to 50% cheaper. Additionally, choosing a transit city like Seoul, Tokyo, or Hong Kong may qualify you for a 240‑hour visa‑free transit in China, which saves you the trouble of applying for a visa and also allows you to stretch your travel funds even further while adding an unexpected destination along the way.

Most flights to China depart from JFK Airport.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) serves as your main gateway, handling nearly all direct flights to Chinese cities. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) offers some international options as well, though with fewer frequencies. It is worth noting that LaGuardia Airport does not handle international flights, so be sure to head to JFK or EWR on your departure day.

The weather in China might feel more familiar than you expect.

If you are traveling to southern cities like Shanghai or Hangzhou, you will find a climate much like New York’s. Both cities share a humid subtropical climate, with similar temperature patterns and rainfall throughout the year. Summers are hot and humid; winters are chilly but not extreme. Packing for Shanghai is straightforward, bring what you would wear in New York at the same time of year.

Beijing in the northern China, however, is quite different. Although it shares a similar latitude with New York, its inland location brings more extreme temperatures. Summers are hotter, and winters are significantly colder and drier than what New Yorkers are used to, while being closer to Washington’s weather. So, if Beijing is on your itinerary, pack accordingly: lighter clothing for summer, and warmer layers for winter.

Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant across most of China, making them the best seasons to visit. No matter where you go, remember that China is vast. A frequent check of the forecast for your destinations before you pack will help you travel comfortably.