China Gap Year Ideas
If you would like to visit China but are worried about the language barrier we recommend taking an organised program. This will be more expensive than traveling independently but you will get to see exciting places, travel in a group with others and have a safe and fun gap year experience. Most gap year programs will require you to be aged 18+ and also open minded to living and working in a new country. There are start dates every month and most placements need to be booked in advance.
Best Things to Do on a Gap Year in China
You can find adventure trips where you can visit places throughout the country. From small group adventures to day breaks by bike, these trips offer a great way to experience new places in China with other travelers and a local guide. China can be a difficult country to travel in, the language is tough to pick up and also the size and diversity of locations can seem daunting. Traveling on a gap year program takes all the hassle away meaning you can enjoy the best experience possible and have a lot of fun.
Most gap year jobs and programs in China are open to all nationalities and you can apply with a friend / partner. For most structured programs you will need to pay a fee, this usually includes placements, transfers, accommodation, meals and in-country support. Accommodation is usually provided in the form of a shared house or hostel dorm, there are also cultural home-stays available where you can stay with a local family. On most programs you will work with local staff and also other international participants so you will not be alone.
China Gap Year Reviews
"I decided to take a gap year to Asia and booked a flight to Shanghai from London. This was one of the longest flights of my life! China is amazing but a big culture shock so be aware of this. From the language, culture and food - everything is different. Be open minded and you will really enjoy the experience. Be sure to visit Beijing, Shanghai, X'ian, Chengdu - all facsinating destinations." - Paul, UK
"When I began to look into volunteer projects for my gap year in China, I decided on teaching English as I wanted to do something I am passionate about within another culture. However I wanted to experience a culture that would teach me something too and I had only read about China in textbooks. As I researched, it became apparent that the chance for a Chinese student to learn conversational English is invaluable. I wanted to share what I could and I knew it would be rewarding to potentially impact on a student’s future, even in the smallest way. Yet I was equally, if not more excited at the prospect of what the students would teach me and what I would find out about a country that still is, to an extent, shrouded in mystery." - Emily Ferris, UK
"I spent a year in China with Project Trust and it changed my life. I made friends for life and experienced a culture which is unlike anything I had seen before" - Harrison, UK
