China: Volunteering in Asia

Volunteering Projects and Internships in Asia - China

Volunteering abroad in China is a unique way to experience life in the world’s most populous country. Our wide range of voluntary projects in China are available for anyone interested in volunteering in the developing world; whether you are on a gap year, a summer placement, or a career break.

Projects Abroad offers a taste of this contradictory, flourishing culture with Teaching, Business, Medicine, Journalism and Law projects based in the dazzling city of Shanghai and in the picturesque city of Hangzhou. Hangzhou is located just over one hour south west by train from Shanghai. In comparison to Shanghai’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, Hangzhou offers a more tranquil, relaxed alternative.

We also have Teaching projects based in the idyllic country towns of Wu Jiang, about two and a half hours journey inland from Shanghai. However, in the summer months - from June to September – all the Teaching projects are based in Shanghai.

Volunteer on a Placement Overseas in China

Although it is embracing capitalist modernity, beneath the glitzy high-rises China retains its strong traditions, cultures and values that have been honed and developed over several millennia.

In Shanghai - one of the world's largest cities - you will be free to experience the Chinese lifestyle whilst living in an apartment with up to three other volunteers. Gain first-hand experience of how quickly China is changing and adapting to Western influences. Sample local dishes and Shanghainese entertainment, or dance at the hippest new club; the choice is yours.

Hangzhou is famous for its natural beauty and historical and cultural traditions. It shares Shanghai’s thrive for change and diversity, and is home to the beautiful West Lake - an added bonus - causing many Shanghainese to visit over the weekend.

Life in Wu Jiang is at the opposite end of this scale. Here, you will experience what life is like in a typical Chinese town. Living with a local host family will immerse you fully in their culture.

Volunteer Travel and Tourism in China

There are many attractions to experience and travel to on your days off. Shanghai is developing so rapidly that something interesting is always going on, as old and new worlds come together. The city contains well-stocked museums, and a visit to the Yu Yuan gardens is essential. Take a boat trip on the Huang Pu River and visit the Bund - Shanghai's famous colonial-style waterfront that has been a landmark for centuries.

The Yangtze river, which is the world's third longest waterway, is also easily accessible. Commonly known as the Chang Jiang (Long River), take heed of the saying 'If you haven't travelled up Chang Jiang, you haven't been anywhere.'

Unsurprisingly, given its size and history, China has World Heritage sites in abundance. The Great Wall and the Terra-Cotta Army are attractions worth a visit once your volunteer work is over. But don't overlook the many other palaces, scenic passes, ancient cities, monuments, temples and carvings that have been given global recognition for their beauty and importance.

The lakeshore of Hangzhou, the gardens of Suzhou, the beaches of Putuoshan; all of these offer a break from the city buzz. Find time to go off the beaten track, too. Trek the silk route; visit a Buddhist monastery. The Chinese countryside will show you how vastly different rural life is compared with the world that is emerging from the urban streets. Possibilities and opportunities for you in China are as wide ranging as the country itself!

"It was also great to see the kids outside of school – some took me ice-skating, I visited a few kids’ houses and family restaurants, went to the park and had extra after school lessons. The children were the highlight for me as they were all so welcoming and enthusiastic (so were the teachers) in both schools. I really feel as if they’ve made progress during the past five months. The excited cheers I’m greeted with at the beginning of every class will stay my fondest memory."
Alexandra Knott,