Things To Do
in China
China, Mexico is a small border town in northern Mexico known for its warm hospitality and a blend of traditional Mexican culture with border-town influences. It serves as a gateway to desert landscapes, markets, and regional cuisine, offering quick day trips to nearby towns and natural areas. The town’s compact center makes walking easy, with plazas, markets, and cafés forming the social core.
Visitors can enjoy hearty northern Mexican flavors, relaxed evenings, and friendly locals who are happy to share local stories and history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zocalo, the main square of Mexico City, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of chilaquiles at a local café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, stroll to the Metropolitan Cathedral, marveling at its intricate designs and art.
In the afternoon, visit the National Palace to view Diego Rivera's murals depicting Mexican history. Afterward, explore the lively streets of Coyoacan, where you can visit the Frida Kahlo Museum and enjoy the artsy vibe of the neighborhood. Stop by a local market for some authentic tacos and fresh fruit juices.
As evening falls, head to a traditional cantina for a lively dinner featuring mariachi music and local delicacies. Savor a plate of mole and sip on a refreshing margarita while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Finish your night with a leisurely walk through the historic streets, soaking in the illuminated architecture.
Embark on an early trip to Teotihuacan, the ancient Mesoamerican city known for its monumental pyramids. Climb the Pyramid of the Sun for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, feeling the pulse of history beneath your feet. Visit the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, admiring its intricate carvings and understanding its significance.
After exploring the pyramids, enjoy a picnic lunch with traditional snacks like tamales and quesadillas in the shadow of the ancient structures. Continue your exploration by visiting the on-site museum, which houses artifacts that tell the story of this remarkable civilization. Take a moment to reflect on the scale of the city while walking down the Avenue of the Dead.
Return to Mexico City and indulge in a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline. Savor a fusion of traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine, complemented by a selection of local wines. Conclude your evening with a cultural show featuring traditional dance performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚍Local bus ride (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Excellent value for food and lodging in a northern-Mexican setting
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourism amenities compared to larger cities
- Some services may be basic in the smallest locales; plan ahead for markets and transport
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in China
Visit one of these nice places.
The early light over the historic plaza provides soft colors, long shadows, and a sense of everyday life in the town.
A vantage point near the river where the water and sky meet, ideal for silhouettes during golden hour.
Colorful murals and market activity create dynamic street photography opportunities.
Food in China
China Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled marinated beef typically served with onions, cilantro, salsa, lime, and warm tortillas; widely available at street grills and taquerías.
Must-Try!
Shredded dried beef scrambled with eggs, often served with beans, tortillas, and salsa.
Slow-cooked meat (often goat or beef) in a rich chile consommé; enjoyed with tortillas for dipping.
Slow-roasted lamb or beef, traditionally cooked in a clay oven; usually served with consommé and tortillas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, chiles, salsas, tortillas, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Street-side stalls serving carne asada, al pastor, and trompo tacos; ideal for a quick and flavorful lunch.
Evening grill stalls along the main avenue featuring grilled meats and hot sides.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as 'Buenos días' and 'Señor/Señora' are appreciated. A handshake or light kiss on the cheek among friends is common; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Eating together is social; wait for others to start before speaking, and use utensils appropriately. Personal questions about income or family are generally avoided in casual settings.
Smart casual is appropriate in most venues; modest attire is appreciated when visiting churches or more traditional neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in China
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10–15% is common if service is not included. Small eateries may appreciate rounding up. Cash is often preferred by street vendors.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller establishments. Cards are accepted in larger restaurants and hotels, but carry some cash for rural shops and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler mornings; carry a light jacket and sunscreen. Dry conditions make outdoor exploring pleasant.
Hot and arid; temperatures can be high. Stay hydrated, schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder temperatures with pleasant daytime highs; a good time for long walks and outdoor markets.
Mild to cool days; nights can be chilly. Layers are useful; indoor markets and cafés are comfortable refuges.
China at Night
Hiking in China
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic canyon area with short-to-moderate trails offering desert views and birdlife.
A lookout trail with expansive views over the plains and distant towns; suitable for a half-day hike.
Trail through mesquite and scrub with occasional shaded sections; good for a relaxed daytime hike.
Airports
How to reach China by plane.
Reynosa area airport offering regional flights; convenient for quick trips across the border.
Monterrey international hub with extensive connections; suitable for longer travel and onward connections.
Across the border in Texas; an alternative gateway for trips to the northern border region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families who have lived in the area for generations and migrant workers who contribute to the local economy.
People commuting for work across the nearby border, contributing to a busy, multi-cultural daily rhythm.
Some visitors and expatriates drawn to the region’s cuisine, markets, and proximity to larger cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and informal pick-up matches are common in plazas and schools.
A favored pastime in schools and communities, with local leagues and weekend games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting China.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, but meat is common in many dishes. Look for vegetarian-friendly plates (beans, quesadillas with cheese and nopales) and ask for 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne'. Many kitchens can adapt dishes if you request no meat or dairy substitutes.