Traveling to China for the first time is an unforgettable experience. This vast and diverse country offers a breathtaking mix of ancient landmarks, centuries-old traditions, buzzing megacities, and natural wonders. From the iconic Great Wall and imperial palaces to futuristic skylines, vibrant street food culture, and peaceful countryside, every corner of China tells a different story. Whether you’re strolling through historic hutongs in Beijing, admiring neon-lit skyscrapers in Shanghai, or hiking through rice terraces in the south, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of contrast, culture, and discovery.
For many young travelers today, visiting China is about more than just tourism. It’s about experiencing daily life through a meaningful lens—whether through an au pair program, a Mandarin language immersion course, or a study abroad exchange. These experiences allow you to connect deeply with local communities, live with host families, and develop valuable cross-cultural skills. But in a country as large as China, choosing the right city for your adventure is key. The place you live will shape your relationships, your language learning, your pace of life, and the memories you’ll take home.
Each destination has its own unique identity and vibe—but one city stands out above the rest for first-time travelers who want a true cultural experience: Chengdu. Warm, welcoming, deliciously spicy, and full of tradition, Chengdu offers everything an international au pair or student could dream of. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 5 must-visit cities in China, but we’ll start with the one that, in our eyes, is truly number one: Chengdu—the cultural heart of modern China and the perfect place to begin your journey.
1.Chengdu – The Best City in China for Au Pairs and Culture Seekers
If you’re looking for the perfect city to begin your au pair journey in China, Chengdu should be at the very top of your list. Located in the heart of Sichuan province, Chengdu is widely known as the home of giant pandas, attracting visitors from all over the world. But what many first-time travelers quickly discover is that this city offers far more than adorable animals and fiery cuisine. Chengdu is a place where culture, community, and everyday life come together in a way that’s uniquely immersive and incredibly rewarding for anyone looking to experience real life in China.
As an au pair in Chengdu, you won’t just visit cultural sites—you’ll become part of a local family and experience daily Chinese life from the inside. You’ll share homemade meals, assist with children’s English learning, and engage in everyday activities that build deep relationships and lasting memories. On your days off, you’ll sip jasmine tea in centuries-old teahouses, join locals for tai chi in leafy neighborhood parks, or get lost in the vibrant backstreets filled with spicy hotpot restaurants, night markets, and artisan shops. This kind of immersion—quiet, friendly, and deeply human—offers something that tourism simply can’t replicate.
What sets Chengdu apart is its perfect blend of tradition and modernity. While it’s a large, fast-growing city, Chengdu has preserved its relaxed rhythm and cultural soul. It’s known as one of China’s most “livable” cities for a reason. The slower pace of life here makes it easier for newcomers to adapt, practice spoken Mandarin Chinese, and truly absorb the cultural nuances around them. Locals are famously friendly and curious about foreign guests, making it easy to build connections, ask questions, and practice your language skills in real-life situations.
Chengdu is also a hub for creative expression and cultural heritage. Many au pairs and international students take part in hands-on workshops such as cloisonné enamel painting, Chinese calligraphy, traditional dance, dumpling-making, or even kung fu classes. These cultural exchange experiences are not only fun—they help you develop intercultural communication, emotional intelligence, and a better understanding of global citizenship. You’ll return home not just with photos, but with new skills, stories, and perspectives.
At Masons Au Pair, many of our participants say that Chengdu becomes their second home—a city where they felt safe, supported, and inspired to grow. For anyone who wants more than a tourist experience—for those who want to live, learn, and create meaningful bonds—Chengdu isn’t just a destination. It’s the beginning of a life-changing adventure.
2. Beijing – Dive Into China’s Imperial and Political History
Beijing, the capital of China, is without a doubt one of the most iconic and historically rich cities in the world. With a legacy stretching back over 3,000 years, Beijing stands as a living museum of Chinese civilization. It was the heart of imperial power for centuries, serving as the seat of multiple dynasties that shaped the nation’s culture, politics, and philosophy. For any first-time traveler eager to understand the foundations of Chinese heritage, Beijing is an essential stop on your journey.
Here, you’ll walk through the majestic Forbidden City, the former palace of emperors and one of the most impressive historical complexes on Earth. You’ll climb the ancient stones of the Great Wall of China, winding across the mountains north of the city, and visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Beijing’s architectural contrasts are everywhere—from wide, modern avenues lined with skyscrapers to quiet hutongs, the narrow traditional alleyways where daily life still flows at an old-world rhythm.
For au pairs, exchange students, or anyone involved in Mandarin immersion programs, Beijing offers more than historical exploration. It’s a city of knowledge and complexity—home to world-renowned universities, innovative tech companies, and vibrant art districts like 798. The sheer diversity of cultural institutions, museums, exhibitions, and theaters makes Beijing a place where learning never stops. You might spend your mornings helping your host children learn English, and your afternoons visiting ancient Confucian temples, joining a Chinese painting class, or watching an avant-garde play.
That said, life in Beijing is fast-paced and intense, especially compared to cities like Chengdu. The energy is high, the metro is packed, and the atmosphere can feel overwhelming at first. But for driven, curious minds who want to be at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, Beijing provides a deep and stimulating experience. It’s a city that challenges you, broadens your worldview, and teaches you to navigate one of the world’s most dynamic capitals with confidence.
While Beijing may not offer the same relaxed lifestyle as other destinations, it remains one of the best places in China for those seeking a powerful combination of history, culture, and opportunity. For many international au pairs and students, time spent in Beijing marks a turning point—not just in their understanding of China, but in their own personal growth.
3. Shanghai – China’s Most Cosmopolitan City
Shanghai is often referred to as the “New York of China,” and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. This sprawling metropolis on the eastern coast is the beating heart of modern China—a city where innovation, ambition, and global influence collide. Towering skyscrapers dominate the skyline in neighborhoods like Lujiazui, while historic colonial architecture lines the Bund, reminding visitors of Shanghai’s rich international past. For travelers and au pairs in China seeking an urban, fast-paced lifestyle with all the comforts of a global city, Shanghai is a dream come true.
Whether you’re sipping coffee in a stylish café, shopping in futuristic malls, or riding high-speed elevators to rooftop bars with panoramic views, Shanghai never stops impressing. The city’s infrastructure is world-class, making it incredibly easy to get around—even for newcomers. The public transport is efficient, and most signs are bilingual, which helps with daily navigation. You’ll also find countless international restaurants, cultural festivals, and global brands coexisting with traditional Chinese street food and temples. It’s this unique fusion of East and West that makes Shanghai feel truly cosmopolitan.
For international students, au pairs, and young professionals, Shanghai offers endless opportunities for personal growth and cultural learning. You can take Mandarin language courses in prestigious institutions, join local meetups or expat networks, and explore a vast array of museums, galleries, and theaters. Neighborhoods like Xuhui, Jing’an, and French Concession are especially popular among foreign residents and offer a more laid-back, European-style charm compared to the financial districts.
Although Shanghai is more modern and less traditional than cities like Xi’an or Chengdu, that’s part of what makes it so exciting. It’s a city constantly reinventing itself—home to a new generation of Chinese entrepreneurs, artists, and thinkers who are shaping the future. For au pairs, this environment offers a fascinating contrast: by day, you might help your host family with childcare or English lessons, and by night, explore art exhibitions, music events, or hidden speakeasies in repurposed factories.
Thanks to its large expat community, Shanghai is also one of the easiest cities in China to adapt to. There are countless support resources, English-speaking doctors and services, international schools, and multicultural events that make daily life more comfortable for foreigners. If you’re nervous about culture shock, Shanghai can be the perfect soft landing while still giving you access to the depth of Chinese culture.
In short, Shanghai is a city of momentum, possibility, and contrast. It may not offer the same traditional charm as smaller cities, but if you’re looking for a place where global culture meets Chinese innovation, and where every day brings new adventures, Shanghai belongs on your list.
4. Xi’an – Explore the Roots of Chinese Civilization
For those interested in China’s ancient history, Xi’an is an essential destination. As one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, Xi’an holds a central place in the country’s historical and cultural narrative. It was the starting point of the Silk Road, and the capital of several influential dynasties, including the Qin and Tang. Its most famous attraction, the Terracotta Army, draws visitors from around the world—thousands of life-sized warriors buried with China’s first emperor to guard him in the afterlife. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s not just a monument; it’s a stunning reminder of how far back China’s civilization stretches.
But Xi’an is much more than a museum of the past. Walk along the ancient city wall, one of the most well-preserved in China, and you’ll see locals riding bikes, flying kites, or simply enjoying the sunset. Visit the Muslim Quarter, and you’ll find a rich mix of cultures, bustling markets, and mouth-watering street food that reflects centuries of trade and migration. Wander through Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Great Mosque, or the Tang Dynasty’s architectural remains, and you’ll feel the profound layers of tradition and spiritual heritage that define Xi’an’s soul.
For au pairs, students, or anyone engaged in Mandarin immersion programs, Xi’an offers the ideal blend of historical depth and youthful energy. The city is home to several major universities, which give it a vibrant academic and cultural atmosphere. It’s not uncommon to see modern coffee shops, bookstores, and creative spaces tucked between ancient buildings and Confucian temples. This creates a stimulating environment where East meets West, and past meets future—a perfect setting for curious minds who want to experience China beyond the surface.
Living in Xi’an as an au pair allows for genuine cultural exchange. You may find yourself discussing history with your host family over traditional Shaanxi noodles, helping children with homework related to ancient dynasties, or practicing Mandarin with friendly students eager to learn English. While the pace of life is a bit more traditional than in Shanghai or Beijing, this slower rhythm is ideal for language acquisition, deeper reflection, and building strong interpersonal connections.
Xi’an’s location in central China also makes it a great hub for further exploration. From here, you can travel to other historic cities or take scenic weekend trips to natural sites like Mount Hua. In short, Xi’an is not just a destination—it’s a gateway to understanding China’s identity, offering every traveler and au pair a chance to walk in the footsteps of emperors, monks, and merchants, while carving out their own unique story.
5. Hangzhou – Serenity and Romance by the Lake
Famous for its breathtaking West Lake, Hangzhou is one of the most romantic and tranquil cities in China. Surrounded by forested hills, pagodas, and walking trails, West Lake (Xī Hú) is the crown jewel of Hangzhou—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has inspired poets, painters, and emperors for centuries. The lake changes with the seasons, offering misty mornings, lotus blooms in summer, and golden leaves in autumn. It’s a place where you can take a slow boat ride, walk across arched bridges, or simply sit by the shore and soak in the peace. It’s no wonder Marco Polo once called Hangzhou “the finest and most splendid city in the world.”
Hangzhou is a city that encourages slow travel and mindfulness, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking balance, reflection, and beauty. It’s also the heart of China’s tea culture, particularly famous for Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of the most revered green teas in the country. As an au pair in Hangzhou, you might be invited to a traditional tea ceremony with your host family, or even visit tea plantations nestled in the nearby hills. This connection to nature and tradition is deeply woven into everyday life here.
For international au pairs, exchange students, and travelers looking for a calmer urban experience, Hangzhou strikes an ideal balance between nature and modern convenience. The city boasts excellent infrastructure, with high-speed rail connections, efficient metro lines, and access to nearby cultural destinations like Suzhou and Shanghai. Yet despite its modern amenities, Hangzhou has maintained a peaceful, poetic spirit that makes it feel far removed from the fast pace of China’s megacities.
In daily life, Hangzhou offers a warm and family-friendly atmosphere. Your host family might take weekend strolls along the lake, attend traditional opera performances, or explore ancient temples like Lingyin Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in China. For those engaged in Mandarin learning, Hangzhou provides an ideal setting: the pace of life is slower, locals are friendly and open to conversation, and the city’s layout encourages walking and interacting with your surroundings.
Culturally, Hangzhou is known for its refined elegance. From silk museums and calligraphy workshops to traditional gardens and art galleries, the city exudes a quiet sophistication. It’s a wonderful place to deepen your appreciation for classical Chinese aesthetics while enjoying a high quality of life.
Whether you’re interested in tea traditions, natural landscapes, or simply a more meditative, immersive experience, Hangzhou is a city that invites you to slow down and connect—with yourself, your host family, and the deeper rhythms of Chinese culture. For many au pairs and students, it’s not just a beautiful city to visit—it’s a place that restores balance and inspires creativity.
Choose Your City, But Let Chengdu Choose You
China is not just one country—it’s a world of its own. From the imperial majesty of Beijing to the electric pace of Shanghai, the historical depth of Xi’an to the poetic beauty of Hangzhou, each city offers a different lens through which to discover Chinese culture. Whether you’re a traveler, a language learner, or an au pair embarking on a cultural exchange, your choice of city will shape your experience in powerful and lasting ways.
But if there’s one city that truly captures the heart of authentic cultural immersion, Chengdu stands out above them all. It’s not the biggest, the fastest, or the most famous—but that’s exactly why it’s perfect. Chengdu offers a deeper, more human connection to Chinese life. It invites you to slow down, build relationships, and learn through everyday moments. For au pairs, students, and first-time visitors looking for more than sightseeing—for those seeking real growth, belonging, and transformation—Chengdu isn’t just a recommendation. It’s a home waiting to be found.
At Masons Au Pair, we’ve seen firsthand how Chengdu can change lives. It’s where language learning becomes natural, where international friendships blossom, and where memories are made that last a lifetime. If you’re ready to go beyond the guidebooks and truly experience China from the inside, Chengdu is your gateway—and your journey starts here.