Mrs Foster was originally going with the Deputy First Minster Martin McGuinness but he pulled out due to "unforeseen personal circumstances."
She will hold a series of meetings during the trip including a visit to the Northern Ireland Bureau in China.
The First Minister is also hoping to meet Liu Yandong, the Chinese vice-premier.
Mrs Foster will also meet representatives from Bombardier, who have a site at Shenyang.
The First Minister Arlene Foster is travelling to China on Sunday.