Comprehensive Travel Guide to Self-Driving Tour in China

Embarking on a self-driving tour in China allows you to explore one of the world’s most diverse and fascinating countries at your own pace. From the bustling streets of Beijing (北京) to the serene landscapes of Yunnan (云南), a self-drive adventure can take you through historical sites, natural wonders, and modern cities. Below is a comprehensive guide that covers all the essential information for a smooth and enjoyable self-driving experience in China.

Why Choose a Self-Driving Tour in China?

China is vast and filled with a wide variety of landscapes—from the peaks of the Himalayas (喜马拉雅山脉) in Tibet (西藏) to the flat plains of Inner Mongolia (内蒙古), and from the ancient Silk Road (丝绸之路) to the modern marvels of Shanghai (上海). Driving allows you to enjoy the flexibility of stopping wherever you want, whether it’s at a famous attraction, a quiet mountain village, or a roadside restaurant.

1. Essential Documents and Requirements

Driving License Requirements

  • Foreign Nationals: To drive in China, foreign visitors need to obtain a temporary driving permit (临时驾驶许可) if they are staying temporarily or exchange their foreign driver’s license for a Chinese driver’s license (中国驾照) if they are staying long-term. International Driving Permits (IDPs) are not valid in China.

  • Chinese Nationals Driving Abroad: Chinese citizens traveling abroad must ensure that their domestic driving license is accepted in their destination country, or they may need an IDP for international driving.

Required Documents

  • Valid passport

  • Foreign driver’s license with a Chinese translation

  • Visa or residence permit (if applicable)

Key Regulations to Keep in Mind

  • Only Chinese-issued driving licenses or officially recognized foreign permits (with a Chinese translation) are valid for driving in China.

  • Foreign drivers are not allowed to drive using only an IDP in China, and doing so could lead to fines, impounding of the vehicle, and possibly even detention.

2. Navigating China’s Roads

China boasts a well-developed road network that connects major cities, remote towns, and scenic areas. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Road Types in China

  • Expressways: Well-maintained highways, like the G4 Beijing-Hong Kong-Macau Expressway (京港澳高速), which stretches from Beijing (北京) to Hong Kong (香港). These roads are toll-based and are often the quickest way to travel long distances.

  • Provincial Roads: Slightly less maintained, but still in good condition, these roads connect towns and rural areas. Some may not have clear signage, so a GPS or navigation app is essential.

  • Rural Roads: These roads are often narrower and can be more challenging, especially in mountainous regions like Tibet (西藏) or Guizhou (贵州). Plan ahead and ensure your vehicle is suitable for rough terrains.

Navigation Apps

  • Baidu Maps (百度地图) and Gaode Maps (高德地图) are the most popular and reliable navigation apps in China. They are available in both Chinese and English and provide real-time updates for traffic and road conditions.

3. Driving Culture and Safety

Road Behavior

  • Chinese drivers can be aggressive, especially in major cities like Beijing (北京) and Shanghai (上海). It’s important to stay alert and be patient. Road rules such as lane discipline are sometimes overlooked, so defensive driving is recommended.

  • Tolls: Most highways in China have toll booths. Always carry cash or a toll card (such as ETC), which is commonly used for faster toll collection.

Speed Limits

  • Urban Areas: The speed limit is typically 60 km/h (37 mph) in cities.

  • Expressways: Speed limits range from 80 km/h to 120 km/h (50-75 mph), depending on the road.

  • Rural Roads: The limit is often 40 km/h to 60 km/h (25-37 mph) on rural roads.

Safety and Insurance

  • Seat belts are mandatory for both front and rear passengers.

  • Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive insurance coverage that includes third-party liability and vehicle damage. Most car rental agencies provide basic insurance, but you may want to opt for extra coverage.

4. Popular Self-Driving Routes

1. The Silk Road

Starting in Xi’an (西安), the ancient capital of China, this legendary route stretches across northern China, leading to Dunhuang (敦煌) and Lanzhou (兰州), and eventually reaching the Taklamakan Desert (塔克拉玛干沙漠). This route is steeped in history and offers a mix of cultural and natural landscapes.

2. Yunnan Province Road Trip

Yunnan is known for its stunning landscapes, ethnic diversity, and pleasant climate. A road trip here could take you from Kunming (昆明), the provincial capital, to the Stone Forest (石林), Dali (大理), and Shangri-La (香格里拉), offering dramatic scenery and opportunities to interact with local minority cultures.

3. The Great Wall Road Trip

Drive along the sections of the Great Wall of China (长城) that stretch through Beijing (北京) and into Hebei Province (河北), where you can explore both well-preserved and unrestored parts of the Wall, surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes.

4. Tibet and Mount Everest

For adventurous travelers, a road trip through Tibet (西藏) is a must. The road to Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰) takes you across rugged terrain with high-altitude landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and panoramic mountain views.

5. Li River in Guilin

Known for its picturesque karst peaks, the drive along the Li River (漓江) near Guilin (桂林) offers some of the most stunning scenery in China. Visit Yangshuo (阳朔) and explore traditional villages along the river.

5. Car Rental in China

Rental Agencies

  • International Companies: Major car rental brands like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate in China.

  • Local Companies: Local companies such as eHi and Zuzuche offer competitive pricing and convenient locations.

Booking Tips

  • Book in Advance: It’s recommended to book your car rental in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (e.g., national holidays like Chinese New Year (春节) and Golden Week (黄金周)).

  • Car Types: Choose a car based on your travel needs. SUVs and minivans are ideal for long trips or if you plan to travel to rural areas. In major cities, sedans or compact cars are more economical and easier to drive.

6. Local Support and Emergency Services

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110

  • Ambulance: 120

  • Fire Department: 119

It’s always a good idea to have a local SIM card or mobile hotspot with internet access, so you can easily contact support services if needed.

A self-driving tour through China is a remarkable way to see the country’s incredible diversity—from majestic landscapes to bustling cities, ancient temples, and modern marvels. With proper planning, understanding local driving laws, and preparing for the road, a self-driving trip through China promises to be an unforgettable adventure.