BtoBers

Bordering Countries of China

by ·

China, one of the world’s largest countries by land area, shares its borders with 14 neighboring countries, each with its own unique characteristics and relationship with China.

  1. Afghanistan

  • Religion: Predominantly Islam
  • Official Language: Pashto, Dari
  • Currency: Afghan Afghani (AFN)

Country Overview:

Afghanistan, located to the west of China, has a turbulent history marked by decades of conflict, including invasions, civil wars, and the presence of extremist groups. The country struggles with political instability, security challenges, and socioeconomic issues. Despite efforts to establish stability and rebuild infrastructure, Afghanistan remains a fragile state with ongoing security concerns.

Major Landmarks:

  • Buddhas of Bamiyan (destroyed)
  • Kabul, the capital city
  • Hindu Kush mountain range
  • Herat Citadel

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: There are no direct roads connecting China and Afghanistan due to the rugged terrain of the Hindu Kush
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and Afghanistan.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Afghanistan border is Kashgar Airport in Kashgar, China. In Afghanistan, travelers can access airports such as Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Afghanistan for citizens of both countries.

  1. Bhutan

  • Religion: Predominantly Buddhism
  • Official Language: Dzongkha
  • Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN)

Country Overview:

Bhutan, located to the southwest of China, is known for its stunning landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and Gross National Happiness philosophy. The country operates a constitutional monarchy and has pursued a policy of isolationism to preserve its unique cultural heritage and environment. Bhutan has a relatively stable political environment and low crime rates.

Major Landmarks:

  • Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery
  • Thimphu, the capital city
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Dochula Pass

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Bhutan do not share a direct road border. Travel between the two countries usually involves transit through India.
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and Bhutan.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Bhutan border is Paro International Airport in Bhutan. In China, travelers can access airports such as Lhasa Gonggar Airport in Tibet.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Bhutan for citizens of both countries.

  1. India

  • Religion: Diverse, including Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism
  • Official Language: Hindi, English
  • Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)

Country Overview:

India, located to the southwest of China, is the world’s largest democracy and a melting pot of cultures, religions, and languages. The country has a dynamic economy, rich history, and diverse geography, ranging from the Himalayas to coastal plains. While India has made significant progress in economic development, it faces challenges such as poverty, corruption, and communal tensions.

Major Landmarks:

  • Taj Mahal
  • Red Fort
  • Delhi, the capital city
  • Himalayan mountain range

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and India are connected by several border crossings, including the Nathu La Pass and the Shipkila
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and India, but there are plans for a future railway link between Tibet and India.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-India border is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport in Chengdu, China. In India, travelers can access airports such as Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and India for citizens of both countries.

  1. Kazakhstan

  • Religion: Predominantly Islam
  • Official Language: Kazakh, Russian
  • Currency: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Country Overview:

Kazakhstan, located to the northwest of China, is the largest landlocked country in the world and a former Soviet republic. It has a diverse population, rich natural resources, and a rapidly developing economy. Kazakhstan has maintained political stability since gaining independence in 1991 and plays a significant role in regional politics and economics.

Major Landmarks:

  • Baikonur Cosmodrome
  • Astana (now Nur-Sultan), the capital city
  • Charyn Canyon
  • Almaty, the cultural capital

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Kazakhstan are connected by several border crossings, including the Khorgos Pass and the Dostyk-Alashankou crossing.
  • Railways: The Trans-Siberian Railway connects China and Kazakhstan, providing a vital link for trade and transportation.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Kazakhstan border is Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport in Ürümqi, China. In Kazakhstan, travelers can access airports such as Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport in Nur-Sultan.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Kazakhstan for citizens of both countries.

  1. Kyrgyzstan

  • Religion: Predominantly Islam
  • Official Language: Kyrgyz, Russian
  • Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS)

Country Overview:

Kyrgyzstan, located to the west of China, is a mountainous country known for its nomadic heritage, alpine lakes, and Silk Road history. It operates a parliamentary republic system of government and has made progress in democratic reforms since gaining independence from the Soviet Union. Kyrgyzstan faces challenges such as political instability, ethnic tensions, and economic development.

Major Landmarks:

  • Issyk-Kul Lake
  • Ala Archa National Park
  • Bishkek, the capital city
  • Burana Tower

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Kyrgyzstan are connected by several border crossings, including the Torugart Pass and the Irkeshtam
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and Kyrgyzstan.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Kyrgyzstan border is Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport in Ürümqi, China. In Kyrgyzstan, travelers can access airports such as Manas International Airport in Bishkek.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Kyrgyzstan for citizens of both countries.

  1. Laos

  • Religion: Predominantly Buddhism
  • Official Language: Lao
  • Currency: Lao Kip (LAK)

Country Overview:

Laos, located to the south of China, is a landlocked country known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, and Buddhist monasteries. It operates a one-party socialist republic and has a developing economy based on agriculture, hydropower, and tourism. Laos faces challenges such as poverty, limited infrastructure, and environmental issues.

Major Landmarks:

  • Luang Prabang
  • Vientiane, the capital city
  • Plain of Jars
  • Kuang Si Falls

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Laos are connected by several border crossings, including the Boten-Mohan Border Crossing.
  • Railways: There are plans for a future railway link between China and Laos as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Laos border is Kunming Changshui International Airport in Kunming, China. In Laos, travelers can access airports such as Wattay International Airport in Vientiane.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Laos for citizens of both countries.

  1. Myanmar (Burma)

  • Religion: Predominantly Buddhism
  • Official Language: Burmese
  • Currency: Burmese Kyat (MMK)

Country Overview:

Myanmar, located to the southwest of China, is a culturally rich and ethnically diverse country with a troubled history of military rule, ethnic conflicts, and human rights abuses. Despite recent democratic reforms, Myanmar continues to face challenges such as political instability, ethnic tensions, and socioeconomic disparities. The country is undergoing a fragile transition towards democracy.

Major Landmarks:

  • Bagan archaeological zone
  • Yangon (formerly Rangoon), the largest city
  • Shwedagon Pagoda
  • Inle Lake

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Myanmar are connected by several border crossings, including the Muse-Ruili Border Crossing.
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and Myanmar.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Myanmar border is Kunming Changshui International Airport in Kunming, China. In Myanmar, travelers can access airports such as Yangon International Airport.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Myanmar for citizens of both countries.

  1. Nepal

  • Religion: Predominantly Hinduism, Buddhism
  • Official Language: Nepali
  • Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Country Overview:

Nepal, located to the south of China, is a landlocked country famous for its Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world. It operates a federal democratic republic system of government and has made progress in political stability and economic development. Nepal faces challenges such as poverty, natural disasters, and political polarization.

Major Landmarks:

  • Mount Everest
  • Kathmandu, the capital city
  • Pashupatinath Temple
  • Chitwan National Park

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Nepal are connected by several border crossings, including the Zhangmu-Kodari Border Crossing.
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and Nepal.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Nepal border is Lhasa Gonggar Airport in Tibet, China. In Nepal, travelers can access airports such as Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Nepal for citizens of both countries.

  1. North Korea

  • Religion: Atheism (officially), Korean Shamanism, Chondoism
  • Official Language: Korean
  • Currency: North Korean Won (KPW)

Country Overview:

North Korea, located to the northeast of China, is one of the most isolated and secretive countries in the world, ruled by a totalitarian regime under the Kim dynasty. It faces international sanctions, political repression, and economic hardship. North Korea’s nuclear program and military provocations have heightened tensions in the region, including with China, its main ally and trading partner.

Major Landmarks:

  • Mount Paektu
  • Pyongyang, the capital city
  • Juche Tower
  • Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and North Korea are connected by several border crossings, including the Dandong-Sinuiju Border Crossing.
  • Railways: The Friendship Bridge across the Yalu River connects China and North Korea, providing a crucial transportation link.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-North Korea border is Shenyang Taoxian International Airport in Shenyang, China. In North Korea, travelers can access airports such as Pyongyang Sunan International Airport.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and North Korea for citizens of both countries.

  1. Pakistan

  • Religion: Predominantly Islam
  • Official Language: Urdu
  • Currency: Pakistani Rupee (PKR)

Country Overview:

Pakistan, located to the southwest of China, is a populous and diverse country with a complex history of political instability, military rule, and conflict. It faces challenges such as terrorism, sectarian violence, and regional tensions, including with India over the disputed territory of Kashmir. Pakistan’s strategic location has made it a key player in regional geopolitics.

Major Landmarks:

  • Badshahi Mosque
  • Karachi, the largest city
  • Lahore Fort
  • Karakoram Highway

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Pakistan are connected by the Karakoram Highway, one of the highest paved roads in the world.
  • Railways: There are plans for a future railway link between China and Pakistan as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Pakistan border is Kashgar Airport in Kashgar, China. In Pakistan, travelers can access airports such as Jinnah International Airport in Karachi.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Pakistan for citizens of both countries.

  1. Russia

  • Religion: Predominantly Russian Orthodox Christianity
  • Official Language: Russian
  • Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)

Country Overview:

Russia, located to the north of China, is the largest country in the world, spanning two continents and a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and ethnicities. It operates a federal semi-presidential republic system of government and has a complex relationship with China, characterized by cooperation, competition, and historical tensions. Russia faces challenges such as political authoritarianism, economic inequality, and geopolitical ambitions.

Major Landmarks:

  • Red Square
  • Saint Basil’s Cathedral
  • Moscow, the capital city
  • Lake Baikal

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Russia are connected by several border crossings, including the Manzhouli-Zabaykalsk Border Crossing.
  • Railways: The Trans-Siberian Railway connects China and Russia, serving as a vital trade and transportation route.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Russia border is Manzhouli Xijiao Airport in Manzhouli, China. In Russia, travelers can access airports such as Sheremetyevo International Airport in Moscow.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Russia for citizens of both countries.

  1. Tajikistan

  • Religion: Predominantly Islam
  • Official Language: Tajik
  • Currency: Tajikistani Somoni (TJS)

Country Overview:

Tajikistan, located to the west of China, is a mountainous country known for its Persian-influenced culture, ancient Silk Road heritage, and natural beauty. It operates a presidential republic system of government and has faced challenges such as political instability, poverty, and regional tensions. Tajikistan’s economy relies on remittances, agriculture, and hydropower.

Major Landmarks:

  • Pamir Mountains
  • Iskanderkul Lake
  • Dushanbe, the capital city
  • Hissar Fortress

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Tajikistan are connected by several border crossings, including the Kulma Pass and the Kulma-Khorugh Road.
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and Tajikistan.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Tajikistan border is Kashgar Airport in Kashgar, China. In Tajikistan, travelers can access airports such as Dushanbe International Airport.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Tajikistan for citizens of both countries.

  1. Vietnam

  • Religion: Predominantly Buddhism
  • Official Language: Vietnamese
  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Country Overview:

Vietnam, located to the southeast of China, is a densely populated country with a long history of independence struggles, colonialism, and war. It operates a socialist republic system of government and has achieved rapid economic growth and development in recent decades. Vietnam faces challenges such as political censorship, environmental degradation, and human rights abuses.

Major Landmarks:

  • Ha Long Bay
  • Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon)
  • Hanoi, the capital city
  • Cu Chi Tunnels

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: China and Vietnam are connected by several border crossings, including the Friendship Pass and the Dongxing-Mong Cai Border Crossing.
  • Railways: There are no direct railway connections between China and Vietnam.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the China-Vietnam border is Nanning Wuxu International Airport in Nanning, China. In Vietnam, travelers can access airports such as Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.

Visa Requirement:

Visa is required for travel between China and Vietnam for citizens of both countries.

Related Posts: