Which city should I teach in China?

Over 160 Chinese cities have a population of one million or more inhabitants. So you have a plethora of options on where to begin your teaching career. The majority of foreigners who relocate overseas desire a blend of cultural immersion and home comforts. Because of the country's fast expansion, most cities in China today feature foreign restaurants, familiar stores, and Western pharmacies. But, with so many options, where should you go to teach in China? Here are our top five vacation spots.

Beijing

Beijing is one of the greatest cities to teach English in China, with the famed Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the beautiful Great Wall of China all on your doorstep. Salaries in the capital are among the highest in China, and the city is home to several of the most prominent schools, both domestic and foreign. There is also a sizable expat population and a plethora of facilities that foreigners living in China need. Beijing offers something for everyone, with Western-style stores, many locations to congregate for a Friday night drink, and possibly China's top attractions.

22 million people live there.

History and culture, gastronomy, artisan beer, and imperial-era architecture are all highlights

Shanghai

Shanghai is the world's largest metropolis and China's most futuristic, cosmopolitan, and modern location for English instruction. While Beijing attracts diplomats and journalists, Shanghai attracts bankers and architects, as well as the upscale clubs and restaurants they visit. The bulk of Shanghai's ex-pat population lives and plays in the colonial French Concession. Its tree-lined lanes are teeming with boutique cafés, independent businesses, and hole-in-the-wall eateries. Shanghai makes up for what it lacks in traditional Chinese culture with its energy and multinational vibe. Shanghai is without a doubt one of the world's finest cities.

24 million people live there.

Shopping, beverages, public parks, and colonial architecture are the best things to do here.

Guilin

Guilin, located in southern China's Guanxi region, is well-known for its natural beauty. Karst mountains surge skyward and dominate the skyline, punctuating the scene. The neighboring towns and villages are known for their sluggish rivers and undulating rice fields, making them ideal weekend destinations for both residents and visitors. The city is constantly developing, and there is a decent assortment of pubs and restaurants catering to international visitors. The breathtaking landscape and several months of great weather, ideal for lounging by the Li River with a nice beer, are undeniably the biggest draws.

5 million people live there.

Best for: authentic China, nature, and outdoor areas

Shenzhen

Shenzhen is China's innovation hub, as well as the country's wealthiest metropolis, due to its constantly increasing economy. Despite its status as a contemporary metropolis, the city has a number of temples and historic structures. Weekend travels may be taken to the adjacent Nanshan Mountains or to Hong Kong, which is just a metro ride away from downtown Shenzhen. Salaries are lower, but the cost of living is far lower than in Shenzhen's more well-known equivalents, Beijing and Shanghai.

13 million people live there.

Best for: Modern living, work-life balance, and all-year warmth

Chengdu

Sichuan's capital is arguably best known for its renowned pandas. But there's a lot more to this charming city, Xióngmo! Chengdu is a famous university city, which contributes to the city's youthful atmosphere. Jialebi is home to hip pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and karaoke bars. As a result, it is ideal for individuals who like late-night culture. It has a more laid-back and carefree atmosphere than other Chinese cities and has become something of an ex-pat hotspot in recent years, with lots of possibilities to meet friends at the city's various hangouts.

8 million people live there.

Best for: Food, laid-back atmosphere, and bars