Top Family Activities for Kids in China

While visiting with Micky and Minnie can be fun, you don’t have to pack up and go to Disneyland to enjoy family travel. China is filled with activities catering to children of all ages. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can set expectations that allow everyone to enjoy both adult-centric and kid-friendly activities. Here are some fun suggestions to consider for your family trip to China.

Raft Down the Yulong River

Adults will appreciate a lazy float down the Yulong River in China’s southern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Surrounded by stunning karst mountains dressed in greenery during the summer, this experience is enjoyable. Moreover, kids can bring water guns, turning the raft into a fun-filled water battle, so long as you keep the camera in a plastic bag!

Climbing Rockeries in Suzhou Gardens

Suzhou is a renowned tourist destination attracting visitors globally. Although visiting Suzhou’s UNESCO-listed gardens may not seem immediately fun for children, consider the climbing opportunities available.

If you have younger kids, the Humble Administrator’s Garden is a must. While adults admire the classical elements of the garden, kids can explore, climb, and play through the cave-like rockeries. They can venture up the steps atop these fan-favorite spots, ensuring you will have ample opportunities for photography as you try to maneuver them away from their climbing adventures!

Chinese New Year Fun at Shanghai’s Lantern Festival

Visiting Shanghai during Chinese New Year offers plenty to do for kids, despite the winter chill. The spectacular lantern display at Yuyuan Gardens encapsulates the festivities beautifully. Lanterns representing the zodiac animal for the year are hung throughout, culminating in a grand display around the tea house outside the garden.

In addition to the lanterns, the festive atmosphere includes traditional entertainment, such as shadow puppetry and a variety of street snacks. The lanterns remain on display throughout the New Year holiday, culminating in the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first lunar month.

Visit Shaolin Temple and See the Birthplace of Kung Fu (and Zen Buddhism)

Visiting the famous Shaolin Temple will captivate children of all ages as they witness the skill of the monks training in Kung Fu. Even for families that are not particularly fond of martial arts, the temple grounds are both gorgeous and rich in historical significance, featuring stories about Bodhidharma’s foundational role in Zen Buddhism.

Visit the Clouds – Views from a Skyscraper

Currently, Shanghai’s skyline is evolving with a new tallest building nearing completion, expected to become the second tallest globally. However, until its completion, families can enjoy views from several other skyscrapers in the city. The Shanghai World Financial Center offers fantastic observation decks, while the Jin Mao Tower provides great alternatives too.

If budget constraints affect enjoying the view from the sky deck, consider sipping coffee at the Grand Hyatt lobby or enjoying a cocktail at Cloud 9 bar while taking in the breathtaking skyline.

Ride the Silk Road – Camel Trekking on the Sand Dunes

Camel trekking in Gansu Province has inspired memories of a delightful adventure in China. After returning home, my kids continued to express their desire for camel riding long after our trip. Camel trekking, therefore, truly offers wholesome fun for the entire family. However, if traveling with very young children, plan the visit carefully, keeping the heat in mind.

Harbin Ice & Snow Festival

A visit to Harbin in winter is only hindered by the cold. However, with the right clothing—easily accessible at local markets—attending Harbin’s famous Ice & Snow Festival will make for a memorable winter family adventure.

Throughout January to February, Harbin transforms into a pristine winter wonderland. Spectacular snow sculptures along the Songjiang River create visual delights, while night-time ice sculptures in Zhaolin Park light the way for visitors. Indoor places are heated, making it easy to warm up and try some traditional Russian-influenced treats.

Hugging Pandas

No list of children’s activities is complete without the opportunity to cuddle China’s treasured Giant Pandas. Chengdu is the place to capture priceless family moments as children hug these adorable creatures at the Panda Breeding Research Base.

The investment may seem hefty, but the memories and photos will be cherished forever. Moreover, proceeds support conservation efforts for this endangered species.

Food Exploration: Beijing Duck to Beggar’s Chicken

If your children are picky eaters, try to find imaginative ways to entice them. Even if you don’t plan a culinary-focused trip, exciting food exploration awaits in China.

Start with Beijing Duck, an unforgettable dish. If you’re treated to this culinary delight, ask the restaurant to show your kids the ovens to see how the ducks are roasted. Consider incorporating fun into the dining experience by having kids dip the crispy skin into sugar. Alternately, they might enjoy assembling duck tacos with pancakes and lean meat. Don’t hesitate to inquire and organize a demonstration in advance.

A favorite restaurant among families in Shanghai is Din Tai Fung, renowned for its delectable xiaolongbao dumplings. Additionally, the restaurant features transparent dumpling-making stations where children can witness the magic firsthand and even receive small dough portions to manipulate at their table.

Hike in a Bamboo Forest

Sightseeing often entails substantial walking, but hiking is a great way to keep the whole family involved. Moganshan provides a perfect mix of proximity and outdoor adventure, located just two hours from Shanghai. Families can delight in a weekend getaway with hikes through beautiful bamboo forests, ensuring even the youngest family members enjoy the outing.

Trek in the Longji Rice Terrace Villages

Similarly, trekking in the Longji Rice Terraces offers breathtaking scenery, with easy access to minority villages. The trek, though manageable, can be challenging during the summer’s peak heat. Nevertheless, with strategic breaks and treats, even younger children can enjoy this beautiful environment.

Sing! Intro to Karaoke (KTV)

If your family includes older kids, consider introducing them to karaoke at a local club. Unlike the U.S., Chinese karaoke clubs often feature private rooms, allowing families to sing without shyness. Expect a playlist of timeless English-language songs that everyone can enjoy. Challenge your kids to navigate the machine and create their setlist!

Harvest Tea

Tea is an integral aspect of Chinese culture, and involving your children by harvesting tea can create memorable experiences. Kids can enjoy picking tea leaves or wandering around the scenic hillsides, providing fresh air and exercise for the entire family.

Go Spelunking

The Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region offers stunning landscapes, many hidden caves ideal for exploration. Children particularly enjoy exploring the Reed Flute Cave in Guilin, while several other spelunking adventures await in Yangshuo.

Cuddle – Family Co-Sleeping on a Kang Bed

In northern China, traditional kang beds provide a unique sleeping experience. These platforms, raised and heated, offer a cozy and enjoyable way for families to share sleeping space, heightening the adventure of your trip.

Hike the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall is a must-see for families. Children can climb and explore while imagining themselves as soldiers, making it a fun twist to history. Several sections attract many tourists, while remote areas allow for hikes without crowds, offering an intimate experience with this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Touring by Boat – The Huang Pu River Tour

Children are often drawn to the experiences boats provide, reveling in the open air and a sense of freedom. One of the highlights of a Shanghai visit is taking the Huang Pu River Tour. Offering diverse tour lengths, this journey showcases breathtaking architecture along the river while providing a glimpse of the busy waterway.