Volunteer in China

Volunteer and Intern in China

China Map

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

Around Shanghai

Projects Abroad offers a taste of this flourishing culture with Business Internships, Medical Internships, Journalism Internships and Law Internships based in the dazzling city of Shanghai and 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.

Our Teaching Projects are based in the idyllic country towns of Wu Jiang, about two and a half hours journey inland from Shanghai. During the summer months - from June to September – the teaching projects move to language schools in Shanghai.

You may also participate in one of our Care Projects, where you can volunteer to help make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged children in Shanghai.

Volunteer Work and Internships in Shanghai

Volunteer Leisure time

Although it is embracing capitalist modernity, beneath the glitzy highrises China retains 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 while living in an apartment with up to three other volunteers. While living in the city, you will be able to see first hand how quickly China is changing and adapting to Western influences. During your cultural immersion, you’ll get to sample local dishes and Shanghainese entertainment or dance at the swankiest club; the choice is yours!

Hangzhou is famous for its natural beauty as well as its historical and cultural traditions. While sharing Shanghai’s thrive for change and diversity, it is also home to the beautiful West Lake for a relaxing weekend.

Life in Wu Jiang is at the opposite end of Shanghai’s round the clock activity. Here, you will experience what life is like in a typical Chinese town. Living with a local host family will enhance your cultural understanding of China, something easily missed by the common tourist.

Volunteer Vacations and Voluntourism 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 the old and new worlds come together. The city contains modern museums and a visit to the Yu Yuan gardens is a don’t miss. 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.

Volunteers abroad at the Great Wall

The Yangtze river, 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 traveled up Chang Jiang, you haven't been anywhere.”

Of course, 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 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 or 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 varied as the country itself!