Youth hostels in China
The IYHF network: what hostels are like and how to use them.
1. International Youth Hostel Federation (IYHF)
The International Youth Hostel Federation, abbreviated IYHF, is known in Chinese as 青旅 (qīnglǚ). Founded in 1932, it is a member of UNESCO. Its headquarters are currently in the United Kingdom, and it is registered as a non-profit organisation. IYHF is one of the world's largest youth hostel networks and operates on a membership basis.
The blue triangle logo of youth hostels is a globally registered trademark. The fir tree and cottage inside the triangle were developed in 1961 by the Road Safety Working Group of the UN Economic Commission for Europe as the official road sign for youth hostels, and it has been admitted into the international public traffic sign system.
2. International Youth Hostels in China
Hostelling International China (YHA China), authorised by IYHF, is headquartered in Guangzhou. It is responsible for the development and coordination of youth hostels and, on behalf of IYHF, protects intellectual property rights relating to international youth hostels within the region.
3. Who Can Stay at Youth Hostels
IYHF The International Booking Network (IBN), which spans more than 60 countries, provides booking services for members. Members can reserve youth hostels in major cities around the world up to six months in advance and pay for their rooms in the local currency. Youth hostel members can also enjoy more than 2,000 discounts worldwide on eating, accommodation, transport, sightseeing, shopping and entertainment.
A Youth Hostel Membership Card (HI card for short) serves both as proof of membership in the International Youth Hostel Federation (IYHF) and as your pass to stay at youth hostels while travelling. Without an HI card, a youth hostel may refuse you accommodation.
HI Individual cards are mainly issued to students and young working people. Students under 14 must present a consent form signed by a parent or guardian. When applying, students must present their ID card and student card; those without an ID card may use their household register (hukou) booklet. Employees must present their ID card and work card (a certificate from their employer is also acceptable). Cards can be applied for at the Guangzhou headquarters and at the front desk of any youth hostel, or online via the official website of Hostelling International China.
General Platforms
1. Ctrip www.ctrip.com
One of the best-known travel websites in China, with a large volume of information, although some of the "gold-rated" attractions and hotels it recommends may not live up to their billing.
2. Elong www.elong.com
Offers members one-stop services, including travel information and booking.
3. Tongcheng Travel www.ly.com
A travel website on a par with Ctrip, with up-to-date travel information.
4. Spring Airlines Travel www.ch.com
Offers online booking for flight tickets, holiday packages and hotels.
5. Qyer www.qyer.com
6. Cncn Travel www.cncn.com
7. Dianping www.dianping.com
8. Tuniu www.tuniu.com
9. Fliggy www.fliggy.com
Forums & Communities
1. Mafengwo https://www.mafengwo.cn/
2. Xitek https://www.xitek.com
3. New Photography https://www.nphoto.net
4. Comprehensive outdoor sports platform
https://bbs.8264.com
5. Mofang mobile app
Source: China Self-Guided Travel 2025 (《中国自助游》, Tianjin Science & Technology Press, Aug 2024), pp. 2744–2748.