China's rapid advancements in transportation technology are reshaping the travel experience, offering both locals and tourists unique ways to explore the country's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. From high-speed rail networks that connect distant cities to the widespread use of electric vehicles (EVs) and bike-sharing systems, China is embracing new methods of travel that make both urban and rural destinations more accessible and enjoyable.
The recent addition of Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List highlights the growing importance of modern travel infrastructure in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Long Shao, a popular travel vlogger with over one million followers on Sina Weibo, has already begun planning his "22 heritages tour" by high-speed train, making use of China's vast rail network to visit historical sites and explore traditional treasures from past dynasties.
Quanzhou, historically a vital port for the Silk Road trade, has long been a hub for cultural exchange, with goods like silk, porcelain, and tea being traded. Today, Long's trip is facilitated by the country's high-speed railway system, which is known for its efficiency, affordability, and connectivity. "With the high-speed railway, my travel plans are so much more flexible," Long explains. "It's not only faster, but it also offers an opportunity to see so much more."
The high-speed rail network in China spans over 45,000 kilometers, offering rapid and convenient access to even the most remote parts of the country. A journey from Quanzhou to Jinjiang in Fujian Province, for example, takes only 10 minutes, making it easy to visit multiple heritage sites in a single day. Long took advantage of this efficiency to explore places like the stone carving of Lao Tzu in Quanzhou and the ancient stone bridge in Jinjiang, all while enjoying local delicacies such as rouyan, a traditional meat dumpling soup.
This efficiency is not just transforming the way Chinese travelers move around their country but is also spotlighting lesser-known cultural gems. Long notes that the high-speed rail network has introduced many smaller, off-the-beaten-path heritage sites to a wider audience, enhancing cultural tourism and providing economic benefits to remote regions.
In addition to rail travel, China's bike-sharing programs are gaining popularity as a sustainable and enjoyable way to experience local cultures. Kim Soo-kyung, a South Korean vlogger based in Shanghai, has used shared bikes to explore various Chinese cities and immerse herself in the local lifestyle. Kim, who refers to herself as a "panda runner," visits panda sanctuaries across the country, including the famous Shenshuping Giant Panda Base in Sichuan Province.
Kim finds biking to be an ideal way to connect with the essence of each city she visits. "I get to see a city at my own pace, in a way that's both fun and eco-friendly," she says. "In Chengdu, for example, I used a bike to visit the giant panda sculpture on Chunxi Road, and it allowed me to stop and take in the vibrant atmosphere, full of local culture and traditions."
Beyond the cities, China's domestic travel options are expanding with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), which have become increasingly popular among local residents. EVs offer a quieter, more eco-friendly alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars, and the country's growing network of charging stations is making long-distance travel more feasible. In 2024, Beijing resident Zhang Dezhao embarked on a journey to Xinjiang in his new electric vehicle, driving the 560-kilometer-long Duku Highway, one of China's most scenic routes.
The Duku Highway, which winds through glaciers, forests, and grasslands, is a must-see for anyone traveling to Xinjiang. Thanks to the development of new energy vehicles and the increased availability of charging stations, Zhang and his wife were able to enjoy the journey without the usual concerns about range anxiety. The rise of EVs is not only helping to reduce carbon emissions but is also encouraging more people to explore China's natural beauty, from the deserts of Inner Mongolia to the lush landscapes of Yunnan.
The development of autonomous vehicles is another area where China is leading the way. With advancements in self-driving technology, including both Level 2+ and Level 4 autonomous vehicles, travel around the country is becoming even more convenient and futuristic. Zhang, who is involved in the development of autonomous driving systems, believes that these innovations will make traveling across the country even more enjoyable, offering greater freedom and flexibility for both domestic and international tourists.
As China continues to embrace new forms of transportation, the country's tourism industry is benefiting from enhanced accessibility and more diverse travel experiences. Whether traveling by high-speed train, electric vehicle, or bike, visitors can easily explore China's cities and rural landscapes, discovering everything from ancient cultural sites to vibrant urban centers.
With the continuous expansion of its transportation networks, China is making it easier than ever for both domestic and international tourists to explore the country's rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and modern innovations. The seamless integration of modern technology with traditional cultural tourism is attracting an increasing number of travelers, making China a top destination for those seeking both adventure and immersion in a unique, dynamic culture.