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Volunteer Programs in China

Volunteer in China, a vast country filled with modern skyscrapers, rural farmlands, and palaces from ancient dynasties. Explore one of the only man made landmarks that can be seen from space, the Great Wall of China, and practice Mandarin, the most spoken language in the world. With a great need for volunteers in the fields of education, childcare, and wildlife conservation, China has a volunteer placement for everyone. Combine ancient cultural exploration with fulfilling community service, and you have volunteering in China, the trip of a lifetime.
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25 Volunteer Programs in China

Maximo Nivel volunteers

Featured Provider of the Month

9.758 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

Giant Panda Center in Chengdu, China

Volunteers are invited to assist in an exciting and meaningful pr...

See All 3 Programs
9.55793 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...

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8.6916 reviews

Volunteer World

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...

See All 2 Programs
9.758 reviews

GoBeyond Student Travel

GoBeyond - Global Community Service Adventures for Teens

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and...

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9.754 reviews

Omeida Chinese Academy

Volunteer in China + Study Chinese

Volunteer for a few hours from Monday to Friday and receive free ...

00 reviews

Rustic Pathways

China Travel Programs - Rustic Pathways

Explore the enchanting wonders of China, where ancient meets mode...

9.7524 reviews

Lingoinn Teacher Homestay

Immersive Learning: Homestay with Professional Teachers

Lingoinn offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the C...

102 reviews

Cultural Homestay International

Teach English to a Host Family in China!

CHI works with trusted overseas partners in Beijing and in Shangh...

00 reviews

Involvement Volunteers International

Turtle Conservation in Huidong, China

If you’re passionate about turtle conservation, this program offe...

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9.0966 reviews

Wanderlust Exchange

Wanderlust Culture Home-stay English Teaching Program

Wanderlust Au Pair China Program integrates educational travel, M...

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1013 reviews

Stepping Stones China

Volunteer to Teach English to Children in Rural China

Volunteers are needed to teach fun activities to underserved chil...

9.6414 reviews

Meiji Internships

Hong Kong Internship with Meiji Internships

Hong Kong is a magical, futuristic city built by the ancient civi...

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00 reviews

Globe Aware

Volunteer with Globe Aware - Changing China

IMPORTANT NOTE: Globe Aware doesn't have upcoming volunteer vacat...

00 reviews

Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation

Care for Stray Dogs at Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation

Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation (SKSFF) in Hong Kong offers a g...

00 reviews

Summerbridge Hong Kong

2025 Summer Program Student Teacher

Interested in youth teaching and community service in Hong Kong t...

00 reviews

United Planet

Volunteer Abroad in China | United Planet

Home to one of the world's oldest civilizations, China offers vol...

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in China

Locations

Shanghai, the most populous city in the world, is located in east China on the mouth of the Yangtze River Delta. Originally a fishing village, Shanghai is now a popular tourist destination, known for its modern skyline, historical and cultural landmarks such as the Yu Garden, and as the global finance center. Popular placements in Shanghai include working in orphanages, teaching English, or volunteering with children with disabilities.

Beijing is China’s capital city located in the north. Volunteering in Beijing gives volunteers the chance to visit the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Full of historical buildings and landmarks from ancient Chinese dynasties, Beijing is a city that allows travelers to immerse themselves in China’s extensive history. Placements in Beijing are similar to Shanghai - working with children with disabilities and orphanages are both very popular. There are also plenty of opportunities to teach English in Beijing.

Another popular location for volunteering in China is Xi’an. Located in the northwest of China in the center of the Guanzhong Plain, Xi’an is home to the Terracotta Warriors and is one of the oldest cities in the country. Volunteers can visit sites such as the Shaanxi Grand Opera House, the Xi’an mosque, or take a dip in the Huaqing Hot Springs. Popular volunteer placements in Xi’an include teaching English and helping with childcare. 

Chengdu is a city located in southwest China and is known as the “country of heaven” or “the land of abundance”. Home to to Panda Research and Breeding center, Chengdu is a popular place for volunteers seeking to work with pandas.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Finding volunteering opportunities in China can be achieved by collaborating with NGOs or looking for program providers that might recommend volunteer programs that will match your interests and skillsets.

You need to obtain an F visa suitable for non-commercial exchanges, such as cultural, scientific, or educational activities. In addition, provide proof of your volunteer work and an invitation letter from the organization you will be working.

There is a volunteer opportunity for everyone in China, particularly in leading destinations like Shanghai, Beijing, and Xi'an, especially for causes such as education, childcare, or animal conservation.

Volunteering for free in China may need a thorough search for volunteer opportunities from organizations or NGOs. However, many programs cover meals and accommodation, so you don’t need to worry about anything but personal expenses.

Latest Program Reviews

IVHQ Christmas Program in Guatemala

November 26, 2025by: Patty Urda - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
10

I volunteered with IVHQ for their Christmas program in Antigua, Guatemala. This was my first experience with IVHQ and I will definitely volunteer with them again. I stayed with a local family who were kind, thoughtful and made me feel right at home. The accommodations were modest but clean and comfortable. The Christmas program was a great experience because we had the opportunity to do a variety of activities including working with seniors and children, picking coffee beans, and a cultural immersion. I appreciate that IVHQ partners with local organizations on the ground.

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