Spring in China is a symphony of blooming cherry blossoms, misty mountains, and ancient festivals. For international travelers seeking a March escape, here are three handpicked routes that promise adventure without breaking the bank.
1. Yunnan’s Floral Wonderland: Kunming → Dali → Lijiang
March transforms Yunnan into a pastel paradise. Start in Kunming, the “City of Eternal Spring,” where the 5entrytoGreenLakeParkrewardsyouwithcherryblossomsframingtraditionalpavilions.Next,takea2−hourtrainridetoDali(20–$30) for Erhai Lake’s emerald waters and the Three Pagodas’ golden reflections.
In Lijiang, wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town (free entry) and splurge 30onacablecarridetoJadeDragonSnowMountain.Budgettip:Stayinboutiqueguesthouses(45/night) and sample Yunnan coffee at $3 a cup.
Why March? The Yunnan Flower Festival peaks mid-month, with lavender fields in Zhaotong and camellia blooms in Chuxiong.
2. Jiangnan’s Water Towns & Tea Terraces: Shanghai → Hangzhou → Huangshan
For a poetic escape, follow the Yangtze Delta’s waterways. From Shanghai, take a 15busridetoZhouzhuangWaterTown,where10 buys a gondola ride under willow-draped bridges. Then, hop on a high-speed train to Hangzhou ($25) for West Lake’s peach blossoms and Longjing tea plantations.
A highlight? Huangshan’s “Sea of Clouds” in March requires a 40cablecarridebutofferssunriseviewsoverjaggedpeaks.Optfora60/night mountain lodge and savor bamboo shoots ($8/dish) at village eateries.
Hidden gem: Xixi Wetland’s reed marshes near Hangzhou host firefly tours ($18) as temperatures rise.
3. Silk Road Revival: Xi’an → Dunhuang → Turpan
History buffs, this one’s for you. Fly from Xi’an (Terracotta Army entry: 25)toDunhuang(120 round-trip) for the Mogao Caves’ Buddhist art (30guidedtour).March′sdryweatherisperfectforcameltreks(35) across Singing Sand Dunes.
In Turpan, explore grapevine-draped adobe villages (free) and the Flaming Mountains’ rust-red cliffs. Budget alert: Uyghur-style lamb pilaf costs just $6 per plate!
Local secret: Attend the Dunham Desert Festival (late March) for throat-singing performances under starry skies.
Planning Your Trip
- Budget breakdown: Each itinerary stays under 1500for10days,includingmid−rangehotels(50–80/night)andmeals(15–$25/day).
- Weather prep: Pack layers—March temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in Xi’an to 20°C (68°F) in Yunnan.
- Transport hacks: Use Ctrip for discounted train tickets and Didi for 5–15 city rides.
China in March is a canvas of renewal. Whether you’re sipping tea beside Hangzhou’s lakes or tracing Silk Road caravans, these routes promise memories as vivid as spring itself.
