Churches in China: A Guided Journey Through 12 Sacred Spaces

China might not be your first thought when planning a trip to see churches, but the country has a rich Christian heritage dating back centuries. Many churches in China are architectural treasures combining Western designs with Chinese elements.

From Gothic cathedrals to Byzantine domes, famous churches in China show the complex history of Christianity in this part of Asia. For Indian tourists interested in religious sites, these churches offer a fascinating glimpse into how Western religion adapted to Eastern culture.

12 Best Churches in China to Visit

1. St. Joseph’s Church (East Church), Beijing

Source: wikipedia

Sitting prominently on bustling Wangfujing Street in central Beijing, St. Joseph’s Church (known locally as Dongtang or East Church) stands out with its striking twin spires and rose-colored facade.

This church dates back to 1655 when it was first built by Jesuit missionaries, though the current structure was completed in 1904 after the original was destroyed during the Boxer Rebellion.

• Type: Roman Catholic

• Location: 74 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing

• Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 28 km from Beijing Capital International Airport (45-60 minutes by car, depending on traffic)

• Timings: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM (Mandarin); 4:00 PM (English); Weekdays: 6:30 AM

• Highlights: Romanesque Revival architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, ornate altar, historical photographs, and exhibitions inside

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for quiet reflection or Sundays for mass services. Major Catholic holidays like Christmas and Easter feature special celebrations.

• Accessibility: Very central location, easily reached via Line 1 (Wangfujing Station). The church is wheelchair accessible with ramps at the main entrance.

• Visitor Tips: Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Photography is allowed outside but restricted inside during services. The nearby Wangfujing shopping street makes this an easy addition to your Beijing sightseeing day.

Suggested Read: How to Book a Visa Appointment for China

2. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (South Church), Beijing

Source: wikipedia

The oldest Catholic church in China still standing in Beijing, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (known as Nantang or South Church) carries deep historical significance.

Founded in 1605 by the famous Jesuit missionary Matteo Ricci, this church has been rebuilt several times, with the current structure dating to 1904.

• Type: Roman Catholic

• Location: 141 Qianmen West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing

• Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 32 km from Beijing Capital International Airport (50-65 minutes by car)

• Timings: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM (Mandarin); 4:00 PM (English); Weekdays: 6:30 AM

• Highlights: Baroque-style architecture with Chinese elements, the memorial to Matteo Ricci, a beautiful pipe organ, and interesting museum displays about church history

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather. Visit during major Catholic festivals for special services.

• Accessibility: Located near Xuanwumen Station on subway lines 2 and 4. Limited wheelchair access with some steps at the entrance.

• Visitor Tips: This church gets crowded during Sunday services. For English mass, arrive 15-20 minutes early to get a seat. Many interesting historical exhibits explain the church’s role in early Catholic missions to China.

Suggested Read: China on a Budget

3. Church of the Saviour (North Church/Xishiku Church), Beijing

Source: wikimedia

The Church of the Saviour, commonly called North Church (Beitang), stands as one of Beijing’s four historic Catholic churches in China.

Built in 1703 and reconstructed in 1887 in French Gothic style, this church tells a dramatic story of resilience—it famously withstood a 55-day siege during the Boxer Rebellion of 1900.

• Type: Roman Catholic

• Location: 33 Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing

• Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 30 km from Beijing Capital International Airport (45-60 minutes by car)

• Timings: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM (Mandarin); 4:00 PM (English); Weekdays: 6:30 AM

• Highlights: Neo-Gothic architecture, twin spires, French-style stained glass, underground tunnels used during the Boxer Rebellion (not open to the public), memorial to those who died during the siege

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for photography and quiet exploration and December for Christmas celebrations.

• Accessibility: Near Xisi Station on Line 4. Some steps at the entrance; limited wheelchair accessibility.

• Visitor Tips: Look for the small exhibition about the church’s history during the Boxer Rebellion. The church sometimes hosts classical music performances—check local listings during your visit.

Suggested Read: How To Check China Visa Status In India

4. St. Ignatius Cathedral (Xujiahui Cathedral), Shanghai

Source: wikimedia

St. Ignatius Cathedral dominates Shanghai’s Xujiahui district as the largest Catholic church in China.

Built between 1906 and 1910 by French Jesuits, this magnificent Gothic Revival structure has survived war, revolution, and the Cultural Revolution to emerge as both a functioning church and a beloved landmark.

• Type: Roman Catholic

• Location: 158 Puxi Road, Xujiahui District, Shanghai

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 13 km from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (30 minutes by car); 45 km from Pudong International Airport (1 hour by car)

• Timings: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 6:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM (Mandarin); 12:00 PM (English); Weekdays: 7:00 AM

• Highlights: Impressive twin Gothic spires, 69 stained glass windows (restored after the Cultural Revolution), magnificent pipe organ, beautiful marble altar

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather. The church is beautifully decorated during Christmas.

• Accessibility: Very close to Xujiahui Metro Station (Lines 1, 9, and 11). Wheelchair accessible with ramps at the side entrance.

• Visitor Tips: The cathedral sits in a busy commercial district with excellent shopping. Combination visits to the cathedral and nearby Bibliotheca Zi-Ka-Wei (Xujiahui Library) offer a fuller understanding of Shanghai’s Catholic history. The English mass on Sundays draws a large international crowd.

Suggested Read: Best Markets in China for Shopaholics

5. Sacred Heart Cathedral (Shishi Cathedral), Guangzhou

Often called the “Stone House” Cathedral, Sacred Heart Cathedral stands as one of the most architecturally impressive churches in China with mass timings for both local worshippers and tourists.

Built entirely of granite between 1863 and 1888 by French architects, it’s the largest Gothic cathedral in China and Southeast Asia.

• Type: Roman Catholic

• Location: 56 Yide Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 35 km from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (45-60 minutes by car)

• Timings: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM (Mandarin); 3:30 PM (Cantonese); Weekdays: 7:00 AM

• Highlights: Stunning all-granite construction, Gothic architecture with twin 58-meter spires, 14 granite columns, European-style stained glass windows

• Best Time to Visit: October to March (dry season) offers the most comfortable weather. Christmas and Easter for special services.

• Accessibility: Near Haizhu Square Metro Station. Generally accessible with a few steps at the entrance.

• Visitor Tips: The cathedral gets very busy during Sunday masses. Arrive 30 minutes early if you want to attend a service. The surrounding area offers interesting shopping and local Cantonese cuisine. Photography restrictions apply inside.

Suggested Read: China with Kids

6. St. Sofia Orthodox Church, Harbin

Standing as a striking symbol of Harbin’s Russian influence, St. Sofia Orthodox Church is unlike any other among historic churches in China.

Built in 1907 and expanded between 1923-1932, this Byzantine Revival masterpiece now functions as a museum rather than an active church, showcasing Harbin’s unique cultural history.

• Type: Former Russian Orthodox (now museum)

• Location: 88 Toulong Street, Daoli District, Harbin

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 39 km from Harbin Taiping International Airport (45-60 minutes by car)

• Timings: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (museum hours)

• Mass Timing: No regular services (functions as a museum)

• Highlights: Distinctive green onion domes, Byzantine architecture, interior exhibitions about Harbin’s Russian heritage, striking exterior, especially beautiful in winter snow

• Best Time to Visit: January and February during the Harbin Ice Festival for magical snow-covered views. Summer for more comfortable temperatures.

• Accessibility: Central location in Harbin. Accessible by multiple bus routes. Some steps at the entrance.

• Visitor Tips: Entrance fee is approximately 20 yuan (about Rs. 230). No religious services are held here. The square around the church is a popular gathering place and photography spot. Combine with a walk along Central Street for a full day of sightseeing.

Suggested Read: China Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

7. St. John’s Cathedral, Hong Kong

Source: wikimedia

As the oldest Anglican church in the Far East, St. John’s Cathedral stands as a peaceful oasis amid Hong Kong’s towering skyscrapers.

Established in 1849, this English Gothic church serves a diverse international congregation while also functioning as a significant historical landmark.

• Type: Anglican (Episcopal)

• Location: 4-8 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 38 km from Hong Kong International Airport (40-50 minutes by car or Airport Express train)

• Timings: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday services: 8:00 AM (said Eucharist), 9:00 AM (sung Eucharist), 10:30 AM (sung Eucharist), 11:45 AM (Mandarin), 2:00 PM (Filipino), 6:00 PM (Choral Evensong)

• Contact Number: +852 2523 4157

• Website: https://www.stjohnscathedral.org.hk/

• Email:[email protected]

• Highlights: Beautiful Gothic architecture, colonial history, stained glass windows, peaceful garden, active international congregation, regular choir performances

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round (Hong Kong has a mild winter). Sunday mornings for services with a choir.

• Accessibility: Very central location near Central MTR station. Wheelchair accessible via ramps.

• Visitor Tips: This church welcomes visitors of all faiths. The adjacent garden offers a quiet retreat from the bustling Central District. The bookshop and cafe provide good resources on the church’s history. Check the website for concert schedules as the church hosts excellent musical performances.

Suggested Read: Top 34 Reasons to Visit China

8. St. Joseph Cathedral (Xikai Catholic Church), Tianjin

Source: wikimedia

St. Joseph Cathedral dominates Tianjin’s former French Concession area with its impressive Romanesque design. Built in 1916, this church remains one of the most important Catholic churches in China and serves as Tianjin’s Catholic diocese center.

• Type: Roman Catholic

• Location: 9 Xining Road, Heping District, Tianjin

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 18 km from Tianjin Binhai International Airport (30-40 minutes by car)

• Timings: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 6:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM (Mandarin); 4:00 PM (English on select Sundays); Weekdays: 6:30 AM

• Highlights: Romanesque architecture, twin bell towers, beautiful rose windows, intricate wooden altar, large pipe organ

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather. Christmas for special decorations and services.

• Accessibility: Central Tianjin location, near Binjiang Dao shopping area. Accessible via Yingkoudao Metro Station.

• Visitor Tips: The surrounding former French Concession area offers interesting colonial architecture worth exploring. Several French-style cafes nearby make this a pleasant area to spend half a day.

9. Zion Christian Church, Guangzhou

Zion Christian Church represents a newer style among Christian churches in China, serving as one of Guangzhou’s most active Protestant congregations.

Located in a modern building, this church offers services in multiple languages, making it popular with both locals and international visitors.

• Type: Protestant

• Location: 392 Renmin Middle Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 33 km from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (45-60 minutes by car)

• Timings: Open primarily for services

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 9:30 AM (Mandarin/Cantonese), 12:00 PM (Cantonese), 7:30 PM (Mandarin)

• Highlights: Modern church design, multinational congregation, contemporary worship style

• Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings for services

• Accessibility: Near Ximenkou Metro Station (Line 1). The building has elevator access.

• Visitor Tips: This church offers a glimpse into contemporary Chinese Christianity. Services can be quite lively compared to more traditional churches. Some English translations may be available, so ask upon arrival.

Suggested Read: China Visa Extension for Indians

10. Gangwashi Church, Beijing

Gangwashi Church holds a special place among Protestant churches in China as one of Beijing’s oldest and most historically significant.

First established in 1863 by American missionaries, the current building dates to 1922 after the original was destroyed during the Boxer Rebellion.

• Type: Protestant

• Location: 57 Xisi North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 32 km from Beijing Capital International Airport (45-60 minutes by car)

• Timings: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday services: 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM (Mandarin); occasional English services

• Highlights: Traditional church architecture with Chinese features, historic significance for Protestant missions, active congregation

• Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings to experience worship services

• Accessibility: Near Xisi Metro Station on Line 4

• Visitor Tips: This church offers insight into the Protestant tradition in China. The congregation is primarily local Chinese, providing an authentic experience of contemporary Chinese Christianity.

11. Zhushikou Church, Beijing

Source: wikimedia

Zhushikou Church stands as an important landmark among Protestant churches in China, located near the historic Qianmen area. Originally built as a Methodist church in 1870, it was the first of eight Methodist churches established in Beijing.

• Type: Protestant

• Location: Dongcheng District, Beijing

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 30 km from Beijing Capital International Airport (45-60 minutes by car)

• Timings: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM daily

• Mass Timing: Sunday services at 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM; Wednesday youth service at 7:00 AM

• Highlights: Simple but elegant architecture, historic Methodist heritage, active youth ministry

• Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings for services or Wednesday for youth activities

• Accessibility: Near Qianmen Metro Station, in a popular tourist area

• Visitor Tips: Combine a visit with exploring the historic Qianmen shopping street. The church has interesting historical displays about early Protestant missions in Beijing.

12. Kuanjie Church, Beijing

Source: wikimedia

Kuanjie Church represents another important Protestant congregation in Beijing, with a focus on community outreach and youth ministry. This church offers a glimpse into contemporary Protestant worship in China’s capital.

• Type: Protestant

• Location: 10 Jixiang Hutong, Di’anmendong Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing

• Distance from Nearest Airport: 29 km from Beijing Capital International Airport (40-55 minutes by car)

• Timings: Open primarily for services: Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00 AM–10:30 AM; Friday: 7:00 PM–8:30 PM; Saturday: 8:30 AM–10:30 AM; Sunday: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

• Mass Timing: Sunday: 9:00 AM–10:30 AM, 10:30 AM–12:00 PM; Friday: 7:00 PM–8:30 PM (youth service); Saturday: 8:30 AM–10:30 AM

• Highlights: Active community programs, youth ministry, contemporary worship style

• Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings for main services, Friday evenings for youth activities

• Accessibility: Central location in Beijing, accessible by public transport

• Visitor Tips: This church offers insight into how younger Chinese Christians worship. Services tend to be more contemporary than in Catholic churches.

Suggested Read: Reasons for China Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals

FAQs

How many churches are in China?

There are about 60,000–70,000 registered churches in China, including around 6,000 Catholic and 60,000 Protestant churches. Many unregistered “house churches” also exist, though their exact number is hard to verify.

Can Christians pray in public in China?

Yes, Christians can pray individually in public in China. However, organized religious activities are generally expected to take place in registered religious venues rather than public spaces. Public proselytizing is discouraged.

Can Christians get married in China?

Yes, Christians can marry in China through civil and religious ceremonies. All marriages must be registered with civil authorities. Many Christian churches in China offer wedding services for their congregants alongside legal registration.

What are the 4 largest churches in China?

The four largest and most significant churches in China, based on size and historical importance, are:

1. St. Ignatius Cathedral (Xujiahui Cathedral) in Shanghai

2. Sacred Heart Cathedral (Shishi Cathedral) in Guangzhou

3. St. Sofia Orthodox Church in Harbin

4. St. Joseph Cathedral (Xikai Church) in Tianjin

Are there any Catholics in China?

Yes, China has an estimated 10–12 million Catholics. Catholic churches in China operate under both the state-sanctioned Patriotic Association and underground communities loyal to Rome, serving their congregations through registered and unofficial parishes.

Can tourists attend church services in China?

Yes, tourists can freely attend services at most registered churches in China with mass timings posted publicly. Many churches, particularly in major cities, welcome international visitors and some offer services or translation in English or other languages.

Do I need permission to visit a church in China?

No special permission is needed to visit most churches in China as a tourist. Major churches welcome visitors during non-service hours. During actual worship services, visitors should be respectful and follow any local customs or guidelines.

Is there parking available at churches in China?

Parking is limited at most churches in China, especially those in city centers. Public transportation is the recommended option for visitors. Churches in Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities are typically well-served by subway and bus routes.