Beijing First Impressions: Solo Female Travel & Hutongs in China

CHINA is NOT what I expected - FIRST 24 HOURS Arriving in Beijing 🇨🇳

Destination:ChinaCity:BeijingPopulation:21.5 million
CHINA is NOT what I expected - FIRST 24 HOURS Arriving in Beijing 🇨🇳
Rhea Shanika2026-01-1022 min

Join me as I travel solo from London to China and share my first impressions of Beijing as a solo female traveller. From navigating airports, transport, and payments to understanding the systems that can make China feel intimidating to travel, this video shows what arriving in China is really like!

On my first day in Beijing, I explore the city’s historic hutongs, eat local Chinese food, and meet friendly locals along the way. If you’ve ever wondered whether China is safe or easy for solo female travel, this is an honest look at day one in the country.

--- Rhea Shanika
January 10, 2026, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00intro and goal
  2. 04:22immigration and forms
  3. 08:03hotel transfer and taxi
  4. 13:10paying in taxi and start exploring
  5. 15:50dumplings arrival and review
  6. 21:16reflection and next day plan

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CHINA is NOT what I expected - FIRST 24 HOURS Arriving in Beijing 🇨🇳

Embark on a solo adventure from London to Beijing with Rhea Shanika! Discover the real first 24 hours in China, from navigating bustling airports and transport systems to experiencing the city's historic hutongs and delicious local cuisine. This vlog offers an honest perspective on solo female travel in China, addressing safety and ease of exploration. Get ready for an authentic glimpse into arriving in a country that might surprise you!

Beijing First Impressions: Solo Female Travel & Hutongs in China

Join me as I travel solo from London to China and share my first impressions of Beijing as a solo female traveller. From navigating airports, transport, and payments to understanding the systems that can make China feel intimidating to travel, this video shows what arriving in China is really...

Attractions in this video: Great Wall, Hutongs, Dumplings, Mr Shei Dumpling House