3 famous places to visit in china

• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)

China, a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, beckons travelers with its incredible destinations.

From ancient wonders to modern marvels, there is no shortage of incredible places to explore in this vast nation.

These 15 places we've selected are great ideas for your annual family trip, birthday trip, anniversary trip, bucket list trip, or any other big milestone trip.

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• 1. The Great Wall
• 6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
• 8. Shanghai, Hangzhou & Suzhou
• 9. Huangshan
• 10. The Silk Road
• 11. The Greater Bay Area
• 13. Jiuzhaigou
• 14. The Yangtze River
• 15. Inner Mongolia

1. The Great Wall — Top Landmark of China

The Great Wall is an absolute must-see when visiting China, particularly for first-time travelers. This ancient and magnificent military defense project, spanning tens of thousands of kilometers, continues to emanate a distinct allure.

Aside from the option of visiting the Great Wall via cable car, embarking on a hike along the Wall would also serve as a fantastic means of exploration .

For those with ample time and a penchant for adventure, camping on the Great Wall could be an exhilarating experience.

During summertime visits, it is highly recommended to explore the Great Wall at night to escape the heat. Alternatively, witnessing the sunset and indulging in a prepared picnic would make for a delightful experience.

If you are planning a trip to China and want to make an itinerary based on your interests and requirements, feel free to contact us . Our tour services are personalized .

2. Beijing — The Ultimate Destination for First-Time Explorers

Beijing, the capital of China, is the most popular tourist destination in China every year. You could get the maximum experience of Chinese culture and history from one destination.

There you could learn some stories about Chinese emperors by walking in the Forbidden City, which was once their home.

For foodies, Peking Duck is not to be missed, and there are plenty of hidden snack bars in the hutongs.

If you want to experience the bustling (or leisurely retired) life of Beijingers, you could visit a Beijinger family in the hutongs or walk around a local community with markets and parks.

3. Xi'an — Embrace the Essence of Culture in a City Steeped in History

One of the most popular China destinations among foreign travelers, Xi'an particularly attracts tourists on their first trip to China.

The Terracotta Army in Xi'an is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. More than 6,000 life-size terracotta warriors and horses have been unearthed, all with different expressions and poses. Many remain interred.

For a richer experience and better understanding, we would arrange a hands-on experience of making your own clay warriors. Here you could get more ideas for your China trip on  Top 10 Unique Experiences in China You Won't Miss

If you are looking for outdoor activities with your kids, we recommend a bike ride along Xi'an's 600-year-old Ancient City Wall where you could have a good all-around view of the city.

Hanging out and snacking on the Muslim Streets could also be a wonderful choice.

4. Chengdu — A Captivating Haven for Panda Enthusiasts

To make your first trip to China complete with a panda encounter, Chengdu cannot be missed.

Chengdu is the best place to see pandas in China. You could also take part in volunteer programs to take care of giant pandas.

During the program, you would break bamboos and wash some bamboos shoots, clean the glass of their enclosures, make their favorite cakes, watch them being fed, and get a souvenir certificate. See more on How Long to Spend in Chengdu .

5. Tibet — A Bucket List Favorite

Tibet is a sacred place for Buddhists as well as a bucket list destination for many travelers.

It is overflowing with rich Tibetan culture, characteristic Tibetan architectural structures, and unspoiled plateau scenery. Read more on How Long to Spend in Tibet .

There you could explore the Potala Palace, which is an iconic landmark in Tibet, travel to Everest Base camp and stand in front of the "Apex" of the Roof of the World, and gaze at the beauty of Yamdrok Lake and Namtso.

If you are traveling with kids and want to have some special experience, we recommend an interesting camp experience with a nomadic family on their pasture and working together with them. All our tours are customized.

• 5-Days Lhasa Classics and Lake Yamdrok Tour
• 8-Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour

6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park — Nature Lover's Paradise

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, featuring precarious peaks, limpid streams, dense forests, large karst caves, and biodiversity, is one of the must-see scenic areas in China.

It was thrust into foreign travelers' eyes via the movie Avatar. The Hallelujah Mountains were inspired (in part) by peaks like Heavenly Pillar in the park.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of a sea of clouds by taking a cable car to the mountaintop. Walk along the steps, and you'll witness spectacular views unveiled before your eyes, offering a unique perspective from various angles.

Additionally, the cool and refreshing air will rejuvenate your mind, making it an ideal summer retreat. See our popular China tour with Zhangjiajie: 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery

7. Guilin — A Family Adventure Awaits in Nature's Playground

Guilin's idyllic scenery draws millions of tourists from near and far every year. Its marvelous limestone scenery is renowned as "the most beautiful on earth". The fresh air and countryside scenery make it an ideal place to escape industrial pollution.

Relax on a Li River cruise and enjoy its stunning karst landscapes. Go to Yangshuo, the tourism-magnet town near Guilin. You could also enjoy some time relaxing on a bamboo raft ride, bicycle, and/or sidecar tour to explore the countryside.

If you are seeking an adventurous experience with your kids, explore a wild limestone cave or discover a beautiful valley that is still mostly unknown, even to locals.

Going kayaking to enjoy the cool water and appreciate the karst scenery along the river could also be a wonderful family activity, especially in the summer.

8. Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou — 1 Hour by Bullet Train

High-speed rail gives you some new comfortable and convenient China tour options. Suzhou and Hangzhou are now only an hour's travel by bullet train from Shanghai!

In Shanghai, explore the Bund in-depth and its historical buildings and visit the world's biggest Starbucks and see how AR (augmented reality) is used in the store.

In Hangzhou, you could visit a tea plantation to see how farmers pick tea leaves and discover the process of making tea.

A trip to Suzhou will let you appreciate the charm of traditional Chinese gardens and water towns. See more on How to Plan a Trip to Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou .

9. Huangshan — Where Majestic Mountains Paint an Unforgettable Landscape

The legendary natural scenery is the highlight of Huangshan. It has "the most beautiful mountains in China". The Yellow Mountains, with their seas of clouds, oddly-shaped rocks and pines, and hot springs at the mountain foot, attract many many visitors.

Besides the enchanting mountains, you could also see the beautiful surrounding countryside. Escape to a rural utopia in Bishan village and see how artists have turned this small area into a rural paradise.

• 3-Day Ancient Villages and Yellow Mountains Tour
• 12-Day Shanghai, Huangshan, Hangzhou, Guilin, and Hong Kong Tour - Selected Picturesque China

10. The Silk Road — Embark on an Unconventional Journey Through History

The Silk Road would show you a different China. It was once the most prosperous trade route in China. Even if it is no longer as prosperous as before, it is still proud to show its unique charm, waiting for every visitor to find its brilliance.

You would see marvelous landscapes with unique Danxia landforms, pristine deserts, and crystal lakes. Visit the old Mogao Caves to see fine murals and learn about how Buddhism entered China. See more on How Long to Spend on the Silk Road .

Feel its exotic culture in Xinjiang by visiting its lively bazaars, and mosques, and meeting friendly locals.

• 7-Day Xinjiang Highlights Tour
• 13-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Dunhuang–Urumqi–Shanghai Tour - Silk Road Highlights and China's Gateway Cities

11. The Greater Bay Area (Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau) — Unveiling a Visa-Friendly Paradise

With its unique blend of cultures, this vibrant region offers many attractions.

From exploring the bustling streets of Hong Kong and admiring the skyline, to experiencing the glamorous Portuguese architecture in Macau and indulging in delicious Cantonese cuisine in Guangdong, there is something for everyone.

Besides, you could explore more in Guangdong to discover its Lingnan culture, such as watching amazing lion dancing and learning the Wing Chun style of kung fu in Foshan .

Hong Kong and Macau offer visa-free access to numerous international tourists, while Guangdong province also allows visitors to make use of the 144 visa-free transit policy .

12. Yunnan — Where Outdoor Adventures Meet Serene Natural Beauty

Located in Southwest China, Yunnan enjoys pleasant weather, warm in winter and cool in summer.

It is the most diverse and colorful area in China. There you could hike across Tiger Leaping Gorge, which is one of the deepest gorges on the planet, visit the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, enjoy a lazy time in the old towns, visit a non-public dormitory of Songzanlin Monastery, bike with the refreshing breezes of Erhai Lake...

All our tours can be customized. Contact us to create a trip according to your group size, time, budget, interests, and other requirements.

• 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour - Meet the Amazing Beauty of Yunnan
• 9-Day Yunnan Family Tour - Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La

13. Jiuzhaigou — Immerse in the Serene Splendor of Lakes and Natural Beauty

Jiuzhaigou, located in Sichuan province, is a must-visit destination in China, especially for nature enthusiasts.

Its colorful lakes, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and unique ecosystem make it a fairyland.

Take leisurely walks along the wooden boardwalks, immersing yourself in the serenity.

14. The Yangtze River — Embrace Serenity and Rekindle Your Affinity as Couples

The Yangtze River, the longest river in China and Asia, would offer stunning and diverse landscapes along its course.

A cruise offers leisurely couple time and provides several typical China-culture-related onboard activities.

Embarking on a cruise along the Yangtze, you would be amazed by the majestic Three Gorges, featuring towering cliffs, misty mountains, and serene waters.

The mesmerizing scenery of the Gorges changes with the seasons, from vibrant greenery in spring and summer to enchanting autumn foliage. As the river continues, picturesque countryside and terraced fields unfold, showcasing the rural charm of China.

Along the way, cultural and historical sites such as Fengdu Ghost City and Shibaozhai Pagoda provide insightful glimpses into China's rich heritage.

15. Inner Mongolia — Uncover Extraordinary Landscapes and Adventures

Inner Mongolia, a vast region in northern China, is also a destination that should not be missed.

The grasslands, stretching as far as the eye can see, offer a unique opportunity to experience the nomadic way of life. You could also stay overnight in a traditional Mongolian yurt to experience their traditional lifestyle .

Adventure out into Kubuqi Desert's hinterland to escape crowds and enjoy all kinds of interesting desert activities.

If you want to explore Mongolian culture, don't miss the Naadam Festival.

Tour China with Us

Below are recommended China tour itineraries for you, including the most popular places from the list above.

For a different combination of China cities, or to tour more of China your way, contact us with your favorite China highlights and we'll tailor-make your dream tour. All of our tours can be tailor-made.

• 11-Day Beijing- Xi'an-Guilin/Yangshuo- Shanghai Tour
• 2-Week Beijing- Xi'an-Zhangjiajie-Guili-Shanghai Tour
• Find some inspiration from our popular China tours

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12 of the best places to visit in China

From the forbidden city in beijing to jade dragon snow mountain in yunnan, these are the best places to visit in china.

I t’s easy to underestimate the size and diversity of China. You could experience the dry heat of the Gobi desert, the humidity of the rainforest in Xishuangbanna, the cool breeze coming off Jade Dragon Snow Mountain’s snow-capped peaks and the subtropical beaches in Hainan in one day if you had a plane that could zip you around the country quickly enough. Most first-time visitors make Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an their priorities, but if you’re travelling on an extended trip, or if it’s your second or third visit, there are plenty of other must-visit attractions to keep you coming back. Here are 12 of the best places to visit in China.

Main photo: Zhengyang Gate in Beijing (Getty Images)

1. The Great Wall of China

At 13,171 miles long, and built in sections over more than 2,000 years, this ancient fortification is an essential stop. Most tours depart from Beijing , with a travel time of between one and three hours’ drive depending on which section of the Great Wall you visit. Mutianyu is the best restored but Badaling remains popular because it was the first section to open to the public. For the more intrepid, Jinshanling to Simatai is a popular hiking route, taking about three hours.

• When is the best time to visit the Great Wall of China?

The Chinese capital is a sprawling city where there’s a landmark, monument or Unesco world heritage site everywhere you turn. You could spend a week here and not even scratch the surface. The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Summer Palace will be among your highlights — but If you’re staying for longer, it’s worth booking a hutong tour to explore the traditional courtyard residences that once dominated the city, while a Peking duck from Da Dong is a bucket-list culinary experience.

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3. Shanghai

China’s largest city by population size, Shanghai is also the country’s economic powerhouse. There’s a European influence here as the French and British occupied parts of the city during the 19th century, leaving their imprint on the architecture. On the Bund, for example, the clocktower was modelled on Big Ben, while the leafy French Concession is dotted with grand mansions. The city comes alive at night — skyscrapers in Pudong, the city’s financial district, are lit up like Christmas trees while restaurants and bars are open until the early hours. Make sure you eat your fill of xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

4. Xi’an, Shaanxi

The Terracotta Army guarding the tomb of Qin Shi Huang (Emperor Qin) is the main draw for visitors to Xi’an, but this one-time capital of China is a treasure trove of heritage attractions. Nearby and less well-known is Han Yang Ling, the mausoleum of Emperor Jing, which is filled with 2ft-high doll-like terracotta warriors. Meanwhile, Xi’an city wall is a tremendously well-preserved example of medieval fortification. And, as the city was the starting point of the Silk Road, Islamic influences can be seen in its Muslim quarter.

5. Chengdu, Sichuan

Home of the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Chengdu has become a popular stop on many China tours . Foodies will relish their visit — it’s one of the original Unesco cities of gastronomy, so you’ll find the best of Sichuan cuisine here. Highlights include spicy hotpot, mapo tofu, and the myriad street food choices you’ll find outside the city’s many temples. It’s also the departure point for tours to Jiuzhai Valley National Park, Huanglong National Park and the autonomous regions around Sichuan.

6. Chongqing

One of four municipalities managed by the central government (along with Beijing, Shanghai and Tianjin), Chongqing’s special status has allowed it to flourish, a process evidenced by the towering — and architecturally interesting — skyscrapers that dominate its riverfront. The antithesis of all this modernity is Ciqikou Old Town, where you can get a taste of what the city looked like before the development. And before you float down the Yangtze on a river cruise, head to Dazu — unknown compared to the Longmen Grottoes, this Unesco world heritage site is home to over 10,000 rock carvings featuring Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian themes.

7. Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Just southwest of Shanghai, Hangzhou is postcard-pretty, with a reputation built by poets and writers inspired by its beauty. West Lake, filled in the summer with water lilies and lined by willows, is its key attraction; head out of the city and you’ll find fields of tea bushes waiting to be plucked and made into longjing (dragon well) tea. Buy this and silk as your souvenirs.

8. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan

Perhaps better known as the Avatar mountains, Zhangjiajie’s pillar-like rock formations, covered in dense forest and swirling in mist, inspired the Hallelujah Mountains of Pandora in the 2009 film. But long before that it was depicted in Chinese watercolours, and has become popular again in recent years thanks to the opening of a glass-bottomed bridge enabling visitors to cross a canyon that stretches a knee-trembling 300m (984ft) below.

9. Li River, Guangxi

The Li River, winding its way through a verdant karst landscape, is instantly recognisable, not least because it’s depicted on every 20 yuan note. Visits here usually include a cruise, sailing from Guilin to Yangshuo, as well as a photo stop to capture a local fisherman — and it’s always one of a certain age — hauling in the day’s catch with the help of cormorant.

10. Yinchuan, Ningxia

Remote, arid and virtually unheard of in the west until just over a decade ago, Yinchuan isn’t the most obvious tourist destination. But it’s here you’ll find China’s burgeoning wine region, producing Bordeaux-style reds that are beating the competition in blind tastings at the likes of the Decanter World Wine Awards. Yinchuan is also a gateway to the undulating dunes of the Tengger Desert and Sanguankou, a section of the Great Wall of China built during the Ming dynasty (1368 to 1644).

11. Sanya, Hainan

Often dubbed the Hawaii of China, the island province of Hainan benefits from a sub-tropical climate that, coupled with long stretches of golden sandy beaches, has made it a popular resort destination. Sanya is by far the most popular destination, with options for diving off its coast. Inland there are forested trails for hiking, and hot springs to unwind in.

12. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yunnan

Soaring 5,596m (18,360ft) above sea-level at its highest point, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain has a breathtaking glacial beauty. It’s home to China’s highest ski resort in winter, and tours here generally include a stop at Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the Jinsha River thunders down a steep valley, and stays in Lijiang Ancient Town, with its carved wood and tiled roof old houses; just be prepared for altitude sickness.

• Best things to do in China • Best Silk Road tours: China and the Stans of Central Asia

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The ultimate guide to things to do in China

Oct 29, 2021 • 11 min read

Despite racing modernization, hints of the old China remain © Nattapon / Getty Images

One of the world’s most vast and ancient civilizations, China is not just one region, cuisine or culture. It's a giant and complex patchwork of cultural groups, histories, cuisines and languages. As you might expect, there's a lot to see.

China’s big-hitting sights are no secret, and Chinese domestic tourists do a fine job of filling them up, particularly during national holidays such as the Spring Festival. But there are still untouched corners. While every traveler may want to tick "walked on the Great Wall" off their bucket list, this is a country where you can literally spend a lifetime and still never see it all.

One of the joys of China is its diversity, and most visitors find a friendly and warm welcome almost anywhere they go. Exploring is made abundantly easier by China’s vast high-speed rail network – the world’s biggest. By all means, put the big hitters on your list – ascending the Great Wall is, indeed, spectacular – but try to explore China’s lesser-visited corners, too.

Rather than a list of famous tourist sites, we’ve rounded up the top things to do in China as themes so you can explore China according to your own travel style and interests. Yilu shunfeng! (Have a great trip!)

Tick off China’s ‘Golden Triangle’

China’s most famous (and therefore most over-touristed) sights are situated in a triangle of three mighty cities: Beijing , Xi’an and Shanghai . The three are connected by high-speed trains making it easy to whip between the big sights. Most first-time visitors aim for China’s three best-known icons: the Great Wall near Beijing, the Army of Terracotta Warriors near Xi’an and the historical Bund and skyscrapers of Shanghai.

You can get a little off-the-beaten-path by avoiding the most popular sections of the Great Wall, especially Badaling (opt for Mutianyu or an unrestored section like Jiankou ), and by visiting during the shoulder- or off-season. Winter is a great time to climb the Great Wall under a dusting of snow and you’ll face fewer crowds as you line up to see the surreal faces of the Terracotta Warriors or snap a photo of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline.

Feast on China's fabulous food

In Mandarin, a common greeting is “ ni chifan le ma? ” – meaning “have you eaten?” – which says a lot about China’s dedication to food. One of the greatest joys of traveling here is discovering the vast world of cuisine that lies beyond what you may have experienced in a Chinese restaurant abroad. There are eight major cuisines in China, and these are further divided up into countless local and regional styles of cooking, so you'll find something new to taste in every corner of the country.

Typically, rice and stir-fried dishes are more common in southern China, where rice is cultivated, while buns, dumplings and noodles are the staples in the wheat-growing north. Don’t miss xiaolongbao , or soup dumplings – a favorite breakfast food in Shanghai – and crispy Beijing roast duck. For delicate dim sum, go to Guangdong province. Try the halal, Central Asian-influenced cooking in far northwest Gansu , or head to Sichuan or Hunan provinces for super spicy foods.

Learn about China’s many minority cultures

The people of China represent a diverse group of communities, cultures and languages. Though the dominant majority (90%) are Mandarin-speaking Han Chinese, across the country there are 55 recognized minority groups. The Miao and Dai of the southwest, the Hui of northwestern Gansu, Qinghai and Ningxia, and the Tibetans are among the most well-known, but there are dozens more groups, languages and identities that are not officially recognized.

While tourism has undoubtedly helped these groups maintain their cultural identities, it has often commodified them, too. To avoid cultural exploitation, seek out homestays or cultural immersion programs that are run by members of the community. The Linden Center in Xizhou, Yunnan , i s an excellent place to start – set in a restored heritage building, it's part boutique hotel, part cultural center, part spiritual retreat and part classroom, offering the chance for deep immersion into three local communities, with profits directly benefiting those groups.

See the Imperial sights

The splendor of Imperial China is proudly on display in Beijing and a string of other former capital cities. The best place to start is in Beijing's Forbidden City , China’s imperial palace since the Ming dynasty (between 1406 and 1420). This Unesco World Heritage Site comprises a series of stunning halls and nested courtyards that get smaller as you progress toward the inner sanctum, which only members of the emperor’s inner circle were permitted to enter.

Further afield in Beijing are the Temple of Heaven , where the emperor performed rites and sought divine guidance, and the lakes and breezeways of the Summer Palace , a sprawling complex that provided the court with respite during Beijing’s hottest months.

There are three other major historical capitals of China: Nanjing , Luoyang and Xi'an, all of which have numerous imperial sights and tombs. In Nanjing, the Ming-dynasty Xiaoling Mausoleum is one of the biggest imperial tombs in China, and the Presidential Palace was home to royal princes before it housed China's first republican president, Sun Yat-sen.

Travel the Silk Road

Long sections of the historical trade routes that make up the Silk Road run through northwestern China, ending at Xi’an, which was considered the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. The townships along the route are rich in cultural heritage, especially of Hui Muslim groups and ethnically Kazakh, Uyghur and Uzbek communities. Although Muslim culture dominates today, part of the delight of traveling China’s section of the Silk Road is discovering traces of the Buddhist culture that traders transport east to China from India.

Some of the most splendid Buddhist sites in China are dotted along the Hexi Corridor in Gansu province, including the celebrated Mogao Grottoes , which are considered one of the most important treasure troves of Buddhist art in the world. Gone are the days of dusty camel rides or even bumpy buses – a high-speed train line now runs the entire length of the Chinese Silk Road, meaning you can travel in speedy, environmentally friendly comfort.

Contemplate life in Suzhou’s gardens

The city of Suzhou is renowned for its 69 classical Chinese gardens, which together form a remarkable Unesco World Heritage Site. The gardens range in size from the huge Humble Administrator's Garden – the biggest and most crowded garden – to the petite and perfectly formed Garden of the Master of the Nets .

The gardens were designed as private getaways for officials, academics and artists. Every detail within, from the winding stone pathways and round moon gates to ponds and bonsai trees, was painstakingly planned to create a suitable atmosphere for pondering and creative pursuits.

Hit the town in Hong Kong & Macau

Though they are very different on almost every level, Hong Kong and Macau are often paired as travel destinations thanks to their geographical proximity and easy transport links between the two city-states via fast ferries or the world’s longest sea bridge. Hong Kong is in many ways the perfect city: bursting at the seams with swanky banquet restaurants and tiny hole-in-the-wall food joints, great nightlife and sparkling skyline views (best appreciated from the top of Victoria Peak ).

You can tour the filming locations for popular movies such as Enter the Dragon and Transformers , or plan your trip in March to coincide with Art Basel Hong Kong , the city's biggest art bash. When things get that little bit too bustling, head to one of the laid-back islands, hike the trail known as the Dragon’s Back or kayak around Hong Kong Global Geopark .

The old-world fishing villages that once made Macau a quiet cousin to Hong Kong are giving way to an encroaching blaze of casinos built on reclaimed land. But Macau still has a wealth of heritage architecture and its own brand of fusion cuisine built on Macanese specialties and dishes influenced by its former colonizers, the Portuguese. If you only do one thing in Macau, make it a visit to Lord Stow's Bakery for the local custard tarts.

Glimpse an adorable panda

It’s tough to escape the national animal in China. Images of real and cuddly cartoon pandas appear on adverts, school signboards, metro trains and products all over the country. You'll even find Panda Brew beer in Beijing. In 2021, China's 67 panda reserves were integrated into one Giant Panda National Park, providing shelter for the 1631 wild pandas living within China's borders. Conservation efforts are paying off – China recently moved the giant panda off the endangered species list to less severe threatened status.

As pandas are notoriously shy animals (and not prone to getting loved-up, hence the extensive worldwide breeding program), travelers wanting to set eyes on a panda usually head to the Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base in Chengdu – home to more than 200 giant pandas and a sizeable population of the smaller, fox-like red pandas. While the animals live in enclosures and the infrastructure is admittedly zoo-like, the Center exists purely for conservation and breeding, so pandas here receive excellent care.

Hike rice terraces & misty peaks

China’s mystical mountain landscapes have been celebrated and commemorated in art for thousands of years. Iconic images of craggily, karst peaks shrouded in mist were the subject of landscape paintings dating back to the 6th century. In fact, there is mountainous terrain all over China, but splendid views of cloud-capped peaks are best found at Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) or one of the sacred Daoist peaks, such as Hua Shan or Tai Shan .

The ethereal, column-like mountains of Zhangjiajie in Hunan province were the inspiration for the film Avatar , and a great destination for easy hikes. And there's serious hiking at Tiger Leaping Gorge , and in the Himalayan borderlands of Yunnan and Sichuan.

One of the most popular images of China is of the sunset reflecting in the staggered waters of a rice terrace. Longsheng county in Guangxi province is a sprawl of rice terraces, the most well-known being the Longji (Dragon’s Back) terraces near Zhuang village. Hiking paths lead between terraced fields and the villages of several minority communities. From here, it’s easy to reach Guilin for a trip down the Li River, whose bizarrely shaped karst peaks have become one of the country’s most iconic images.

Get wintery in Dongbei

China shows a different side in winter, and the country has developed its cold-weather offerings, particularly infrastructure for skiing and snowboarding in preparation for the 2022 Winter Olympics. The best slopes and facilities can be found at Yabuli in Heilongjiang province and Changbaishan in Jilin province.

For something less active but still full of wintery wonder, the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival is held every year in the city of Harbin beside the iced-over Songhua River. It’s the world’s biggest ice sculpture festival, with dozens of ice-formed buildings and giant sculptures made of ice and snow, many shaped like well-known world landmarks.

Experience traditional arts & architecture

China has a rich musical and architectural heritage that spans centuries and hundreds of cultural traditions. Admiring dynastic architecture through the ages is a highlight of any trip to China, whether getting a close-up view of a Tang-dynasty pagoda in Xi'an or standing in the imposing open space of Tian’anmen Square .

Dramatic modern architecture has sprung up across the country, from the oddly-shaped CCTV Headquarters (aka the "pants building") in Beijing to the incredible Baoxi ‘bamboo town’ in Zhejiang province, where every building is eco-friendly and made from sustainable bamboo.

In arts and music, too, China has flourished through the ages. There are plenty of places around the country to experience traditional Chinese opera – one good spot is Suzhou’s Shantang Kunqu Opera House , which has intimate opera performances each evening accompanied by a traditional tea service.

One of the most charming experiences in China is getting up early in the morning to visit local parks, where people practice sword-play, fan-dancing, taichi, singing, square dancing, water calligraphy and other folk artforms.

See beautiful art in China’s museums

China is brimming with excellent museums cataloging everything from ancient ritual objects to stimulating and surprising modern art. Each province in China has its own provincial museum with locally found objects, but for a broad overview of national arts and artifacts, head to the excellent Shanghai Museum or the National Museum of China in Beijing.

China's thriving contemporary art scene is best explored at Shenzhen’s Museum of Contemporary Art & Planning Exhibition and Hua Art Museum , the 798 Art District in Beijing and a whole collection of museums and galleries in Shanghai’s revitalized West Bund district, including Tank Shanghai , ShanghART and the Yuz Museum .

There are also plenty of more specialized museums such as the Sanxingdui Museum near Chengdu, dedicated to a mysterious ancient civilization. More quirkily themed museums include the Shanghai Museum of Glass , the China Watermelon Museum and the Gaoligong Museum of Handcraft Paper in Yunnan province.

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Best Places to Visit for Expats in China

No matter you are in China for business, study or permanent living, you are highly suggested to make maximize use of your weekends and holidays to explore this wonderful country. Maybe getting up close to the incredible landscapes is your preference? Are you interested in the unique culture of the Great Wall, Kung Fu and ancient army? Or do you want to take your taste buds on a trip by sampling Chinese specialties? China offers all of this and more.

Here are up-to-date lists of Best Places to Visit in China for China Expats . All are voted completely by over 20,000 foreigners in China.

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Best China Tours for Expats in China:

• ☛ 3 Days Classic Zhangjiajie Natural Wonders Tour
• ☛ 2 Days Leisure Chengdu Private Tour with Panda Visit
• ☛ 3 Days Beijing Essential Short Stay Tour
• ☛ 4 Days Jiayuguan Dunhuang Tour (Silk Road Short Break)

For Nature Lovers

Have you been yearning to nature for a long time? China has everything for you, from the majestic gorges to towering Kast Mountains, magical avatar mountains to holy snow mountains, breathtaking Yellow Mountain to beautiful Rainbow Mountains, stunning rivers to pure alpine lakes, otherworldly stone forest to spectacular waterfalls, and so on.

• Guilin Guilin's Scenery is the best under heaven! This ideal place always drives tourists crazy with majestic Karst Hills, emerald rivers…
• Yellow Mountain "No mountain is worth seeing after a trip to Yellow Mountain". Yellow Mountain, or called Huangshan, is the most beautiful mountain in China!
• Zhangjiajie Avatar Mountains are calling! Here in Zhangjiajie, you can get up close to thousands of magical Avatar pillars!

• Guizhou Guizhou has China's largest waterfall - Huangguoshu Waterfalls, a rising star among mountaineers - Fanjingshan…

• Daocheng Yading Daocheng is praised as the Last Pure Land on Our Planet! It has superb snow mountains, ice glaciers, alpine lakes, valleys…
• Hangzhou When it comes to the most beautiful lake in China, Hangzhou West Lake usually tops the list. Mountains of tea plantations in this city are also amazing!
• Kunming Kunming, the spring city with pleasant weather all year round, is also rich in natural wonders like the stone forest, red land…

Best China Tours for Nature Lovers

• ☛ 3 Days Classic Jiuzhaigou Tour
• ☛ 4 Days Guilin Highlights Tour
• ☛ 3 Days Huangshan Highlights Leisure Tour
• ☛ 3 Days Classic Fanjingshan Tour
• ☛ 5 Days Kunming, Jianshui & Yuanyang Rice Terraces Tour

For Chinese History & Culture Fans

With as long as 5,000 years of history, China has abundant of cultural museums and heritages to explore. It is because of its long history and splendid culture that every year China attracts flocks of visitors to come and travel around. If you are also Chinese culture fans, simply visiting museums isn’t always enough. You’ll get the most satisfactions out of ruins of ancient times in front of you and visiting places that once the capital and prosperous hub in the past. Getting close to its historic cities and sites is like opening a door to trace the mysterious and splendid past. And in China, the cities below are the top picks to trace its past.

• Beijing From the world-class Great Wall to spectacular Forbidden City, Beijing, of course, always tops the travel list of Chinese culture fans.

• Lijiang Lijiang Old Town is one of the four best well-preserved ancient towns in the whole China. Lijiang also has Baisha Village, Shuhe Ancient Village…

• Suzhou "Suzhou Gardens are the finest under heaven". Suzhou City has a flavor of elegance everywhere, from the classic gardens to water towns, silk factories to ancient streets…
• Foshan Fungfu Fans? Why not add Foshan, the Hometown of Marital Arts, into your trip? You can learn the stories of many martial arts masters here, including Bruce Lee!
• Shaolin Temple Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Chinese Kung Fu that you see in many Kung Fu movies. Here, you can join the Kung Fu classes and enjoy Kung Fu shows.
• Kaili If you are curious about the minority culture in China, or want to visit some well-preserved minority villages, Kaili is one of the best choices.
• Leshan Leshan Giant Buddha is a must-visit for all Buddhist devotees. This stone Buddha is the tallest in the world!

Best China Tours for Chinese History & Culture Fans

• ☛ 2 Days Beijing Layover Highlights Tour
• ☛ 3 Days Classic Xian Tour
• ☛ 3 Days Romantic Lijiang Tour with Visits to Naxi Kingdom
• ☛ 3 Days Essence of Luoyang Tour
• ☛ 3 Days Best Dunhuang Culture and Scenery Tour
• ☛ 3 Days Kaili Minority & Cultural Experience Tour with Xijiang Miao Village

For Families

If you are in China with your kids and searching for places to spend your weekends and holidays, choices are a lot. You can visit the China Icons like Great Wall and pandas, sail the picturesque Yangtze River or Li River and marvel at the Avatar Mountains in Zhangjiajie and so on.

• Xian Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda , Bell Tower, Drum Tower… Everyone can have fun in Xian.
• Yangtze River The classic Yangtze River cruises take 4~5 days. If you have more days, you can have an in-depth visit of 11~15 days. Everything is perfectly arranged for your family.

• Zhangjiajie Floating Avatar Mountains, Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, Yellow Dragon Cave, nearby tranquil Fenghuang Ancient Town…
• Chengdu Everyone loves adorable Pandas! And in Chengdu, you can not only admire their lovely looks in a distance but also be a one-day keeper to feed them...
• Yangshuo Guilin’s scenery is the best under earth, and the landscape in Yangshuo is the best in Guilin. Yangshuo is an ideal place to take a glimpse of Chinese countryside!

• Xiashuangbanna Featured with large groups of plants and wild animals and a strong flavor of tropical and South East Asian, Xishuangbanna is a popular tourist land for families.

Best China Tours for Families

• ☛ 4 Days Beijing Family Tour with Kids Fun
• ☛ 2 Days Xian City Break
• ☛ 3 Days Classic Guilin Tour
• ☛ Days Best Shanghai Family Holiday Tour

For Hiking Aficionados

Looking for some amazing accesses to wonderful mountains, gorges and so on by your steps? No matter you are beginners or experienced hikers, China can perfectly fulfill your dreams. There are notable great wall, popular Yellow Mountain, adventurous Mount Kailash, little-known Yubeng and so forth for you to choose!

• Great Wall "He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a true man"! There are top 7 sections of great walls are calling, including Mutianyu, Jinshaling, Badaling, Simatai, etc.

• Tiger Leaping Gorge The Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking trail is one of the most famous routes in the world! It is a totally natural one winding through the hillside and cliffs high above a gorgeous gorge.

• Mount Siguniang The beautiful Mount Siguniang provides diverse of hiking opportunities, from leisure hiking to top professional hiking to the summits of Snow Mountains.

Best China Tours for Hiking Aficionados

• ☛ 2 Days Mutianyu and Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking
• ☛ 3 Days Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour
• ☛ 2 Days Mount Emei Leisure Hiking Tour from Chengdu
• ☛ 3 Days Xian Mount Huashan Leisure Tour

For Foodies

Every city in China offers diverse delicious dining options. You can of course treat your taste mud with excellent dishes in the city you are living or working. However, if you want some authentic tastes of specialties of different regions, you can head to Chengdu for Sichuan Cuisine dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, to Chongqing for Nine-grid hot pot, to Shunde for excellent Cantonese Cuisine, to Xian for various kinds of cooked wheaten food…

• Chengdu Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan, the province where many notable dishes like including Mapo Tofu, Twice Cooked Pork and Gong Bao (yes Kung Pow) Chicken originate.

• Beijing Everyone knows Beijing Roast Duck! Instant-boiled Mutton is also delicious. You may also like the unique Fermented Mung Bean Juice, Rolling Donkey, Pea Flour Cake…

• Chongqing The hot pot meals in Chongqing, the Hot Pot City in China, are considered to the best and most beloved. You can throw almost any ingredient into the hotpot.

Best China Tours for Foodies

• ☛ 2 Days Best Chengdu Food Tour with City Sightseeing
• ☛ 5 Days Brilliant Lingnan Culture & Food Tour
• ☛ 4 Days Beijing Food Hunting Tour

For Photography Enthusiasts

Photography is a great way to record the beautiful China and forever keep your memories during your travels in China. No matter you are professional photospheres with superb photographic "guns" or shutterbugs who just want some interesting Instagram images, China never let you down. From the sprawling mountains to the scenic beaches, idyllic rice terraces to never-ending meadows, China is full of great places to press your shutter.

• Longji Rice Terraces Longji Rice Terraces in Guilin is not only famous for its huge size and traditional minority culture, but also unique terraces in amazing shapes of moons, phoenixes, dragons...

Best China Tours for Photography Enthusiasts

• ☛ 4 Days Xiapu Mudflat Photography Tour
• ☛ 4 Days Yuanyang Rice Terrace Awesome Photography Tour

For Modern Charms Philatelists

Looking forward to visit the modern cities to experience the rapid development of China or to feel the most state-of-the-art high-techs? There are also a lot of recommendations in China.

• Hong Kong From high-end shopping malls to colorful recreation venues, luxury cruises to stunning skyline, every corner in Hong Kong gives you perfect explanations about modern.
• Shenzhen Shenzhen is regarded as an incubator for cutting-edge design, a rule-breaking tech hub and a bastion of next-gen urbanism. High-tech stories usually starts here!
• Guangzhou Guangzhou is at the forefront of modern living, but is not that crazy as Shanghai and Shenzhen. Shopping and dining sprees there are great!

Best China Tours for Modern Charms Philatelists

• ☛ 3 Days Shanghai Past and Present Contrast Tour
• ☛ 2 Days Essence of Hong Kong Tour
• ☛ 2 Days Shenzhen Short Stay Tour with All Essences

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Recommended China Tours for Expats 2024

This is the most popular China tour to Beijing, Xian and Shanghai to visit the most iconic China attractions - Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, The Bund, etc., and explore great of both China’s past and present.

With the Golden Triangle plus the fabulous Karst and countryside scenery of Guilin, this tour leads you to top 4 destinations anyone cannot miss out in China especially for the first-timers.

Travel from north to south China, meet stunning nature and culture, urban and countryside scenery with relaxing cruise experience on the beautiful Yangtze River.

Coverinng top highlights in China to please your eyes, ease your spirit, witness grand and beautiful landscape in special ways.

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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10 Places to Visit in China for a Trip of a Lifetime

As a vast and fantastic country with very long history, there are many places to visit in China, which would reward you a memorable trip of a lifetime with picturesque landscapes, profound cultural atmosphere, amazing historical heritages, or interesting art achievements, etc. However, what are the best China places to visit within the limited travel time? Here is a list for reference.

Beijing : The Capital City of China

Xi’an : Most Ancient City with 3,000 Years’ History

Shanghai : megacity with modernity and stylishness, chengdu : home for giant pandas, zhangjiajie : wondrous avatar mountains, guilin & yangshuo : classical cruise down the li river, suzhou : classical chinese garden art, hangzhou : west lake & south china water towns, luoyang : origin of chinese kungfu, tibet : mysterious inland up the himalayas, you may like.

9 Historical Places in China You Should Never Miss

Top 10 China Tourist Places for Culture Lovers

Top 10 China Main Cities for Nature Lovers

15 Best Places to Visit in China

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 9, 2021

While many of the country's most important attractions are in and around the largest cities, some of the smaller towns and cities offer their own tourist treasures and are among the most beautiful places to visit in China. Thanks to China's rapidly expanding economy, its infrastructure has grown at an astounding rate, and it is now relatively easy to embark on some serious city hopping.

From the transportation hubs of Shanghai and Beijing, the arrival point for most tourists, it's possible to visit other important cities, such as historic Xi'an, famous for its Terracotta Army, or even venture out into the magnificent countryside surrounding its many large metropolitan areas.

However you choose to travel, these top tourist towns and cities are well worth taking the time to explore. Plan your trip with our list of the best places to visit in China.

1. Beijing: Home of the Imperial Palace and Forbidden City

2. historic xi'an: the terracotta army and more, 3. hong kong, 4. guilin and yangshuo, 5. shanghai, 7. ningbo and the tianyi ge library, 8. hangzhou and the historic grand canal, 9. qufu and confucius, 10. the city of ceramics: zibo, 11. quanzhou, 12. yangzhou, 13. foshan's famous buddhas, 14. dunhuang and jiayuguan, 15. the gardens of wuhan.

China's second biggest city, Beijing has been the country's political center for more than 800 years. And for almost as long it has been an important center for cultural, economic, scientific, and academic life.

Beijing is home to many of China's best-known attractions , including the spectacular Imperial Palace , also known as the Forbidden City . Many of the city's top tourist attractions are in its well-preserved historic city center, making it possible to visit most of them on foot as part of an organized tour. Of these, highlights include the magnificent Temple of Heaven (Tiāntán) , Tian'anmen Square (the world's largest public square), and the beautiful Beihai Park . You should also include the fascinating Beijing Ancient Observatory . Built in 1442, it was still in use in the early 20th century.

A newer attraction that's worth a visit is the wonderfully designed Beijing National Stadium (Guójiā Tǐyùchǎng). Also known as the "Bird's Nest," this unique structure was built for the 2008 Olympics, and in addition to guided tours, you can visit the stadium during concerts and sporting events. Beijing is also a great place from which to explore the surrounding area and attractions, such as the Great Wall of China .

The bustling city of Xi'an, situated between the Weihe River in the north and the Qinling Mountains in the south, is one of Northwest China's chief textile centers. It also possesses more items of archaeological interest than perhaps any other city of its size in China. The most important and best known of these tourist attractions is the world-famous Terracotta Army, which can be enjoyed with a tour to the impressive Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum.

Xi'an's history stretches back some 6,000 years, and by the 3rd century BC it boasted one of the highest urban populations in the country. The remains of the Han imperial residence can still be seen, along with fortifications and other evidence of the city's importance as the starting point of the famous Silk Road . From here, this fabled route wound its way through Central Asia and the Middle East as far as the Mediterranean, linking Xi'an with such far away cities as Istanbul and even Venice.

Among Xi'an's other important historic sites are the 64-meter-tall Pagoda of the Great Wild Goose , a survivor of the Tang Dynasty from AD 618 to 907, and the 43-meter-high Pagoda of the Small Wild Goose , built in AD 684 in honor of the Tang Emperor Gaozong. Another must-see is the Historical Museum of Shaanxi Province , China's most important archaeological museum, illustrating the origins and achievements of Chinese culture from prehistory to the Qing period of 1368 to 1911

Other points of interest include the Town Walls , completed in 1398 with four gates and numerous watchtowers, and the city's 15th-century mosque. This impressive structure features five courtyards and traditional Chinese buildings decorated with Islamic patterns.

Hong Kong is, quite rightly, regarded as one of the world's most dynamic and exciting cities. While much of this can be attributed to its colonial past, it really owes its uniqueness to its rich mix of old and new China.

Famous as a high-tech center of banking and commerce, its modern luxury hotels and shops rub shoulders with many examples of an older, traditional way of life. This is seen everywhere, from its many authentic family-run restaurants to its ancient temples and fascinating street markets.

However long you're planning to visit, there are some Hong Kong attractions and fun points of interest that you simply must experience here. A highlight for many is hopping aboard the famed Star Ferry service and heading out from Victoria Harbour to the mainland and back - it's a great and affordable way to get your bearings and take in the city's impressive skyline.

Other must-dos include taking the funicular railway to the top of Victoria Peak , which provides another great vista, this time over the island and its many hills; and spending an evening exploring the busting Temple Street Night Market, one of the best street markets in Hong Kong .

Also, consider heading out on one of the hiking trails for great views and unique experiences, or spending a day on one of Hong Kong's glorious beaches .

No trip to China is complete without spending at least a little time enjoying a river cruise. One of the most popular options - and one that's perhaps best left to a professional tour company to organize on your behalf - is a cruise along the majestic Li River , which connects the two important cities of Guilin and Yangshuo.

This 83-kilometer journey whisks you past spectacular scenery, as well as small Chinese villages, which offer a glimpse into the country's rich culture and traditions. It's a one-way, five-hour journey that begins upriver at Guilin, which boasts an airport and railway connections to destinations including Hong Kong, and ends in Yangshuo. Be sure to plan on spending time afterwards exploring the many historic sites in the latter.

Many tourists in fact spend at least a few days exploring Yangshuo and the surrounding area. It's certainly time well spent, and offers a variety of unique adventures and experiences not available elsewhere. Of these, perhaps the most popular is taking one of the fun, two-person, people-powered bamboo rafts along the quiet Yulong River.

Other must-dos in Yangshuo include making the trek up Moon Hill for its superb view, or renting a bike to explore the paths and trails along the Yulong. Be sure to take in the spectacular Liu San Jie Impression Light Show. Designed by the same team that provided the choreography for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, it's a fitting finale to your Yangshuo adventure.

The largest city in China, Shanghai is famous for being the country's most modern metropolis and offers a diversity of tourist attractions old and new . Boasting in excess of 24 million citizens, the city's highlights include numerous world-class museums and art galleries, ranging from the excellent Shanghai Museum to the China Art Museum . There are also a surprising number of quiet green spaces, old temples, and pagodas to explore - not to mention some great shopping experiences, too.

Must-see points of interest include Shanghai's broad promenade, the Bund . This lovely pedestrian walkway runs along the west bank of the Huangpujiang River and is popular for its very distinctive European architecture. It's an especially beautiful sight at night. Also notable here is the beautiful Yu Garden (the Garden of Happiness), with its many fine old buildings.

Other things to do in Shanghai include spending time exploring its more modern attractions, such as the 468-meter-tall Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower with its excellent views over the river and city. Be sure to include the fun Shanghai Science and Technology Museum , one of the country's most visited science museums, on your itinerary, along with Shanghai Disney .

If, when you think of China, you think of pandas, you'll want to make sure the city of Chengdu is high on your list of must-sees. It's here you'll find the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding , a massive facility that is home to more than 80 of these wonderful animals.

Tours of the facility include a chance to see pandas up close. If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with feeding time. Also worth seeing, the on-site museum features exhibits detailing everything you'll ever want to know about the challenges of conserving these notoriously placid creatures.

For a chance to see pandas in the wild, take a day trip to the Wolong Nature Reserve , two hours west of Chengdu. This vast scenic area serves to protect the natural habitat of pandas and other important species.

Other Chengdu attractions worth seeing include numerous old pagodas and bridges, along with the many historic alleys in the old part of the city. There are also many religious sites here, too, such as the Monastery of Precious Light and Chengdu Huangcheng Mosque , one of China's oldest and most important Muslim sites.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Chengdu & Easy Day Trips

Ningbo, located in the northeast corner of the province of Zhejiang just 25 kilometers from the East China Sea, has been one of the country's most important ports since the 7th century. Crisscrossed by countless navigable canals, this busy city is dubbed "Little Shanghai" and can trace its history back some 2,300 years to the period of the Qin Dynasty.

It's best known attractions include such historic sites as the magnificent Tianyi Ge Library . Built by high-ranking official Fan Qing between 1561 and 1566 to house his private book collection, it's one of the oldest of its kind in China. Consisting of some 80,000 rare Chinese volumes and manuscripts, this remarkably preserved collection also includes a large number of stone inscriptions dating from the 14th century. Also of interest is the artificial pond outside this splendid old two-story structure, intended to provide water in the event of a fire.

You'll also want to visit the 55-meter-tall, seven-story Tianfeng Ta Pagoda . Also known as the Tang Pagoda, this stunning structure was built in AD 695 and is well worth the climb for its panoramic views of the old city.

Ningbo is also somewhat of a popular seaside destination for Chinese tourism and has a number of wonderful, white sandy beaches. It's also popular for its shopping and dining options, too.

Located at the southern end of China's famous 1,776-kilometer-long Grand Canal , a remarkable engineering feat and UNESCO World Heritage site, Hangzhou is one of China's most visited cities. As big a draw as this centuries-old canal, which connects Hangzhou to Beijing, is the city's picturesque location at the foot of a tall mountain range overlooking beautiful West Lake with its many old shrines and temples, romantic bridges, and pleasant pagodas.

Still often called the "Silk City" for its many silk mills and markets, Hangzhou is famous for having attracted many of China's most important artists through the centuries, as well as famous travelers such as Marco Polo, who declared it the most beautiful city in the world. A tradition that has been around even longer than the legend of Marco Polo is taking the famous Dragon Well tea (lóngjing chá), handpicked in the surrounding countryside twice a year and still much celebrated in art and ceremonies throughout the city.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hangzhou

Thanks to its connections with Confucius, China's most revered philosopher, the small town of Qufu in southwest Shandong has long been one of the country's most important places of pilgrimage. Not only was Confucius born here in 551 BC, he was also buried here in 479 BC. As a result, numerous temples and shrines have been erected by devotees in celebration of his life and teachings.

Perhaps the most important of the three main historic sites related to the great teacher - together forming part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site - is the Cemetery of Confucius (Kong Lin). This large burial ground contains the graves of Confucius, family members, and numerous followers.

The grave itself is a mound marked by a 15th-century gravestone carrying the inscription "Grave of the Sacred King of Culture, who achieved Absolute Perfection." The graves of his son and grandson are situated close by. The cemetery, laid out around Confucius' grave in the 14th century, makes for a delightful excursion thanks to its more than 10,000 trees. Other important sites worth exploring are the Temple of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion .

Situated in the center of Shandong province, the city of Zibo was the capital of the Qi Empire for 630 years. During this time it became famous for its ceramics and lacquered works of art. It was in fact here that China's famous green glass was first developed some 1,500 years ago, as well as the region's distinctive black glazed porcelain.

Between 960 and 1279, local makers also perfected the technique of coating earthenware with a brownish layer of glaze displaying tear-shaped runs. This still popular style has cemented Zibo's reputation for hand-made porcelain and ensured its status as China's major producer of ceramics.

Zibo's connection to the history of ceramics is celebrated at the Zibo Chinese Ceramics Center . This fascinating attraction features large collections of locally produced artifacts and displays showing both modern and traditional manufacturing methods.

Another attraction worth seeing is the Great Wall of the Qi . More than 2,500 years old, many sections of its 600-kilometer length still stand and can be visited. Zibo boasts a variety of other interesting cultural experiences, including its unique cuisine and theatrical performances, which can be included as part of a tour package.

Located in the southeast corner of Fujian province on the broad Jinjiang estuary, Quanzhou was already an important port in the 6th century. Highlights of this historic port include the Temple of the Beginning of the New Age , built in AD 686 and one of the largest temples in China.

Covering some 70,000 square meters, this vast temple site includes a number of impressive pagodas, including the 48-meter-tall eastern pagoda (Zhenguo) dating from the end of the Tang Dynasty around AD 700 and decorated with 39 bas-reliefs crafted from alabaster; and the 44-meter Pagoda of Longevity (Renshou Ta) from the early 10th century and decorated with birds and flowers.

Also of interest is the Mosque of Peace and Clarity , erected in 1009 in the style of a Damascus prayer house and financed by Muslim merchants. One of the oldest mosques in China, the building is notable for its impressive main gate and walls with Arabic engravings of the Koran.

Be sure to also visit the Quanzhou Maritime Museum with its historic displays, including a 24-meter-long 10th-century sailing ship; hundreds of sculptures; and stone tablets with inscriptions in old Chinese, Latin, Syrian, and Arabic. You'll also see numerous ceramic pieces crafted in Quanzhou from the 10th century onwards. Afterwards, spend time exploring the downtown area, popular for its shopping, authentic restaurants, and many fine hotels.

Yangzhou lies in the central region of Jiangsu province between the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal and can trace its roots back some 2,400 years. It was the building of the canal in the 6th century, however, that saw the city rise in importance as a place of foreign trade, attracting the likes of Arab missionary Behao Aldin in the 7th century and later Marco Polo, who stayed here for a spell.

In addition to being famous for its traditional local cuisine, unique art forms, and handicrafts, the town boasts a number of first-rate attractions, which together form a great walking tour of the old town. These include the picturesque Narrow West Lake ; the old Bridge of the Great Rainbow (Dahong Qiao); the 18th-century Bridge of the Five Pavilions ; and Fuzhuang Island , reached by a zig-zag bridge and home to a number of pleasant pavilions and covered walks.

Another must-see attraction is the 4th-century Temple of Heavenly Peace . Located at the foot of the Mountain of the Plum Blossom (Meihua Ling), it's famous as being the place where, in AD 418, a Nepalese monk translated the Buddhist scriptures. Also worth seeing, the 1,500-year-old Daming Temple was once home to the monk Jianzhen, famous for spreading the Buddhist gospel to Japan.

Foshan lies in the center of Guangdong province, about 20 kilometers southwest of the larger city of Canton, and is notable for being one of the oldest towns in China. This popular tourist destination takes its name from three ancient bronze Buddha statues discovered here in AD 628 and soon after became one of the country's most important places of pilgrimage. Under the Song Dynasty from AD 960 to 1279, Foshan became known as a center of the porcelain industry along with metalworking and silk weaving.

Among Foshan's other attractions are the centuries-old Ancestral Temple , now used to stage traditional Cantonese opera performances, and Shi Wan , an old porcelain furnace that's been in operation since the 10th century and is said to have remained permanently lit.

Another highlight of a visit is simply wandering the old town's well-preserved European-influenced streets and courtyards. It's a real treat due to the shopping opportunities at the many small traditional potteries offering their unique goods for sale to curious passersby.

Although remote, the cities of Dunhuang and Jiayuguan are big draws for adventure seekers and certainly one of the best places to visit in China. Located to the northwest of China, these two cities have long been famous for their association with the Silk Road trading route, which connects Asia with Europe.

Dunhuang's proximity to the Gobi desert - the city was established on an oasis, the first (or last, depending on the direction you were headed) in China - makes it the perfect place to experience a fun sunset camel trek along the dunes. From here, you'll also be able to explore the spectacular ancient Mogao Grotto Caves , man-made dwellings literally chiseled out of the mountainside.

Jiayuguan, some 386 kilometers east of Dunhuang, is where you'll find the spectacular Jiayuguan Pass . This breathtaking natural scenery is enhanced by a number of once important forts, as well as the most westerly section of the Great Wall of China , a real treat to explore due to the fact fewer tourists venture to the area.

After all that adventure, you can enjoy the chance to explore historic Jiayuguan, a popular shopping destination for its many finely crafted goods, as well as a great place to experience authentic regional cuisine.

• Visiting Dunhuang & Jiayuguan: Mogao Caves, Western End of the Great Wall of China & Camel Trekking

Large by Western standards due to its population of nearly three-and-a-half million souls, Wuhan, the capital of Hebei Province, lies at the confluence of the Yangtze and Hanshui rivers on the Beijing-Canton rail route in Central China. Well over 3,000 years old, the city offers a number of first-rate tourist attractions worth exploring on foot.

One of the best is East Lake , the largest urban lake in China and famous for its many gardens, which burst forth each spring in a cacophony of color as cherry trees and lotus flowers bloom. Those with an interest in Chinese culture and history are well served, too, thanks to the excellent Hubei Provincial Museum . Highlights of the museum, regarded as one of the best in China, include rare finds from the 5th-century tomb of Marquis Yi (Zenghouyi), 2,500-year-old musical instruments, and a superb collection of bonsai trees.

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The top 20 places to visit in china.

China: it’s a country of legend and enigma, brimming with possibly the most dynamic history of any country in the world. It only opened up to outside tourism in the late 1970s, and to this day still sees relatively few international tourists when compared to other Asian countries. So where are the top 20 places to visit in China? After Beijing and Shanghai, what are the best places to visit in this colossal country?

In my opinion, there’s really nowhere as compelling as China. Whether you travel for history, nature, cities, or beaches – there’s something for you in the world’s most populated country. Travel in China is an extraordinary adventure; and a very humbling experience, as it will make you look on the world from an entirely new perspective.

If you’re planning on venturing to China, you’ll probably be wondering what the top 20 places to visit in China are. This list will show you some of the best bucket-list destinations in China, whether they be huge cities, sprawling national parks, ancient towns or mountains.

Also, just FYI – you might think that China is somewhere difficult to visit where you have to obtain an expensive visa to set foot in. Well, you’re kind of right, but there is a way to visit China without a visa ; if you book a multi-day layover (up to 3 days in participating cities), you don’t need a visa! So these places to visit in China have just got a lot more accessible!

The Top 20 Places to Visit in China: A Complete List

No visit to China would be complete without a trip to Beijing , the capital of the nation and one of the most important cultural hubs of the country.  Visit Beijing to enjoy its rich history and culture; found all over the city, from the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven to its Olympic Stadium and art district.

Learn about Chinese history in the many  Beijing museums which give you an insight into this complex and intriguing nation, and of course, enjoy the rich cuisine of the capital at some of the street food stands and restaurants in the city. Once you’ve seen all of the highlights, there are some more off-beat activities in Beijing as well . With its huge international airport that services destinations in all corners of the globe, Beijing is a great place to fly into and begin any China trip!

The Great Wall

The Great Wall is a mesmerising architectural feat, stretching over 21,000 kilometres; it spans from near the North Korean border to Gansu province. There are lots of points from which it can be visited; most popular, best preserved and easily accessible are  Mutianyu and Badaling, but other spots to visit from Beijing are Jiankou (where you can camp on the wall!) and Jinshilang.

And of course, you’re not limited to visiting the Great Wall from the country’s capital – other spots where you could reach the wall are Hushan (by the North Korean border), the Overhanging Great Wall in Jiayuguan or the Yanmen Pass in Shanxi.

The medieval city of Pingyao is a completely unique place to visit – it is unlike any other city in the country . It was the old banking centre of China; visitors can see old vaults and abacuses used to count money on! There are also historic buildings, preserved courtyards and a city wall to climb and enjoy a spectacular vantage point over the ancient metropolis.

As well as exploring the beautiful city, there’s amazing food – such as Pingyao pancakes – and plenty of temples and other attractions. Conveniently located between Beijing and Xi’an, it’s a perfect place to visit that not so many travellers make it to.

The best time of year to visit Harbin, located near China’s border with Russia, is without a doubt during its winter ice festival . This takes place in January every year and is absolutely mesmerising, with ice sculptures all over the city and a fantastic atmosphere.

But even if you can’t visit Harbin during this time of year, it’s still worth checking out for the unique Chinese/ Russian influence, the barbecues that line the streets and the permanent ice hall exhibition.

Xi’an

Situated at the start of the Silk Road, Xi’an is a wonderful merge of eastern and western Chinese cultures. The city presents this in the fusion of Islam and Buddhism with the city walls; the Muslim Quarter houses a mosque and some of the best street food in China, yet there are many Buddhist temples – the most famous of which is Big Goose Pagoda.

Xi’an is the launching pad for the nearby terracotta warriors; and of course, there is a rich history throughout the city – it was one of the ancient capitals of China, after all! Popular things to do within Xi’an are to walk the city walls (which can be walked or cycled), explore the Muslim Quarter and visit the mosques and temples within the city. It is also in close proximity to Huashan, considered the most dangerous mountain in China . Xi’an is about 13 hours from Beijing on a regular train, or from just 4.5 hours away on a high-speed bullet train.

The capital of Inner Mongolia, Hohhot is a fantastic place to visit for those who want to experience nomadic culture and the terrain of Mongolia without having to get a separate visa for Mongolia . Visit gorgeous grasslands, the typical scenery of the area which can be seen on day or multi-day trips from Hohhot and experience unqiue sceneries and authentic Mongolian hospitality. Once you’re back in the city, you can enjoy its unique features; there is a Muslim community in the city, as well as other ethnic minorities. Taking a train from Hohhot to Beijing takes between six and nine hours.

Shanghai, with its modern skyline and famous river, is appealing in a different way than most Chinese cities. There is a rich history here that is quite unlike any other Chinese city – Shanghai enjoys a strong European influence, including a French Concession and various British impacts.

You’ll never be bored in dynamic Shanghai; from its glittering Bund to its thriving restaurant, bar and arts scenes, there’s so much to explore in this booming city. Highlights include the Oriental Pearl TV Tower,  Nanjing Road and the traditional Yu Garden.

Shanghai is also a perfect springboard for some of the amazing national parks, towns and cities in the area, including Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) and the water town of Zhouzhang; known as ‘The Venice of China’ – which also features on this China tourist attractions list. Shanghai has a huge international airport, and can also be reached by rail from most cities.

A city steeped in history and beautiful culture, it is no wonder why Hangzhou is one of the most popular tourist cities in China. With beautiful scenes like a gorgeous lake, eloquent temples and authentic Chinese tea, Hangzhou is probably one of the most quintessentially Chinese cities you can visit.

Described by Marco Polo as ‘Paradise on Earth’, visiting Hangzhou will remind you of a more traditional Chinese culture than is demonstrated in Bejing and Shanghai. If you’re debating whether Hangzhou is worth visiting , know that it is easy to reach from Shanghai, even if it is just for a day trip.  Hangzhou is just 200km from China’s largest city, and the shortest high-speed trains make the journey in only 45 minutes!

It used to be the capital of the south of China; Nanjing is a fascinating city which blends the old and new. This is represented in the ancient city walls as well as the booming shops and industrial areas of the city. However, in its more recent history, it has been the site of some dark history.

The Nanjing Massacre, which was one of the bloodiest events of the Japanese occupation of Manchuria, is commemorated at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial. It is well worth visiting this city just to learn about the event; it is vital that travellers know about these things to get a real understanding of the country.

Spice is nice in Chengdu! Travellers visit to see pandas (although I wasn’t sure about the ethics of the Chengdu panda base ) but stay for the incredibly spicy hotpots and other delicious foods. If you’re not into getting your socks blown off with extreme spice levels, other things to do in Chengdu include browsing the many pagodas, temples and laneways of this Chinese city.

It is also a gateway to other incredible parts of Sichuan, including nearby Leshan and the Giant Buddha and Mount Emei. Chengdu is very well connected to Shanghai, Beijing and south China by rail links.

Yangtze River

The longest river in Asia and the third largest in the world, the Yangtze is home to some spectacular scenes and an amazing amount of history. The river basin drains one fifth of the land area of the entire country; and it stretches from Qinghai in the west to Shanghai in the east. Its most famous attractions are the Three River Gorges; you can take a cruise from Chongqing to admire them. Chongqing is well connected to most major cities in China by rail.

Juizhaigou is one of those unbelievably beautiful spots that are difficult to sum up into words. These multi-tiered colourful waterfalls don’t look like they can be real, but rest assured that they very much are and are available for tourism, despite being undiscovered until 1972.

It’s a bit of a hair-raising adventure to reach Juizhaigou –  it is located 10 hours by bus from Chengdu on some rough mountainous roads – but it is well worth it.

Note – Jiuzhai Valley has only just reopened to visitors after the August 2017 earthquake. Parts of the park may be limited for visitors and the number of travellers each day is restricted. make sure to check current restrictions before travelling there!

Located in the South West of China, about six hours by train from the border with Vietnam, Kunming has a unique fusion of Han Chinese culture with Himalayan influences. Known as ‘The City of Eternal Spring’, Kunming is home to beautiful temples and parks, and has wonderful surrounding nature.

Check out the Stone Forest in Shilin – an easy day trip from Kunming – or the rice terraces to the south and the red fields in the north. Or catch a train or bus to the historic old town of Dali , a truly unique place in China.  Yunnan is a beautiful province, and Kunming is fantastic to use as a base to explore. You can reach Kunming easily from Chengdu and from other cities in China by long-distance train; it is also only a 6 hour journey to Hekou, which is the border town with Lao Cai in Vietnam.

Known as the ‘Venice of China’, Zhouzhuang is the country’s oldest water town. All houses are built on the river, and each has its own port. It’s a really pleasant place to just meander around the streets, but there are also plenty of old buildings and bridges to check out; including the twin Shide and Yong’an Bridges. The buildings date from the Ming and Qing dynasties, so there is plenty to admire here!

Geographically and culturally very similar to South East Asia, Guilin is probably most famous for the nearby Li River, which is featured on the 20 yuan note. Yangshuo is the best spot to cruise the Li River; boat tours take you around some of the best scenery and to the town itself. Within Yangshuo you can go cycling, take a Tai Chi or cooking class, or if you want to head back to the river you can bamboo raft past the town. Yangshou is a  1 – 2 hour bus journey from Guilin.

Another side trip from Guilin, the Longsheng Rice Terraces are a must-see. The green paddy fields are spectacular, and hikes in the area can take you around the fields and through local towns, each with their own distinct culture. Tours are offered to the Longsheng area, but it’s very easy to visit them independently from Guilin .  They lie around a three hour bus journey away from the city and can be done as a day trip or overnight stay.

Hong Kong is and isn’t part of China; you need to go through a border crossing to get there, and you’ll notice some stark differences between the two. It’s also possible for most nationalities to visit Hong Kong without a visa, and it’s a good ‘intro to China’ if it’s your first time there.

The city and surrounding area are unique places to visit, and they’re great to see another side of Chinese culture. Highlights include the Big Buddha, Victoria Peak, exploring the Tsim Sha Tsui area and lots of shops, restaurants and nightlife.  If you’re after a real adventure, stay in a hostel in Chungking Mansions  and enjoy the amazing Indian food on the ground floor – a Hong Kong highlight for me!

China Travel Tips – Other China Articles to Read

• Backpacking China – Full Itinerary for First Timers
• China Packing List
• Solo Travel in China
• Train Travel in China

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The Ultimate Chinese Bucket List: 50 Must See Places to Visit in China

The Ultimate China Bucket List: 50 Must-See Places to Visit in China

China is a huge country. There’s no ifs, buts, or coconuts about it. At 9,596,960 square kilometers – it weighs in behind only Russia, Canada, and the United States for sheer size. Couple this with China’s massive population and its jaw-dropping history, and you’ve got a recipe for a borderline overwhelming array of choices when it comes time to plan your trip to China.

Put simply, there are just too many places to visit in China to do it all in one go.

For a country with so many diverse cultures and landscapes, it’s remarkable that so many Chinese itineraries consist of the same tried and tested fare.

Beijing for the historic sites, a brief detour to Xi’an to see the Terracotta Warriors, and one final stop-off in Shanghai for shopping and a brief walk along the Bund.

For those pressed for time, this is perfectly fine, but there’s so much more to China than just these three cities.

There is a wealth of cities with more history in one neighborhood than the entirety of my own country.

There are unbelievable and almost alien landscapes the likes of which would fit in better with fantasy or science fiction.

You’ll find cultures as unlike the ‘traditional’ Chinese as our own, sample foods that go well beyond beef & broccoli, and be confused, frustrated, and amazed every step of the way.

A Lifetime Commitment

China is not a country to be tackled in a week or a fortnight. It’s a country that begs to be visited and revisited. A country with so much to see that it would take a lifetime to do it justice.

But if you’re planning your dream Chinese trip and came in search of suggestions, look no further! I’ve compiled a list of the fifty places you should see and the experiences you should have while in China.

It’s a far from exhaustive list, and I’m bound to have missed some things, but you’ll find a little of everything here. From off the beaten path national parks to ancient monuments to beautiful beaches, there’s a little something for every Chinese bucket list here.

If you’re inspired to embark on your own journey through this fascinating country, explore a range of curated  trips to China  that can help you experience the best of China’s unique culture and landscapes.

The Obvious

Like any country, China has a few items that should be on any first-time itinerary.

The US has the Statue of Liberty, France has the Eiffel Tower, Australia has Sydney Harbour, and England has London’s many iconic sites.

There’s a reason why Xi’an, Beijing, and Shanghai feature so prominently on Chinese itineraries: the most recognizable landmarks can be found in these three cities. 

Throw in Chengdu to see China’s most famous animal and a cruise along China’s most famous river, and you’ve got the makings of a fantastic two-week itinerary.

1. Visit the Imperial Sites in Beijing (The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven)

No Chinese itinerary would be complete without at least a few days in the nation’s capital.

Beijing may have a bad reputation due to its increasingly bad pollution, but pierce the haze and you’ll still find China’s most enduringly charming and fascinating city.

The presence of the legendary Forbidden City, the tranquil Summer Palace, and the distinctive Temple of Heaven give the city a triumvirate of historic sites the envy of every other city on earth.

With the possible exception of the Great Wall of China, no other landmark can really attest to better epitomizing China’s rich Imperial culture.

Looking for more for your Beijing itinerary? Check out Lama Temple, one of China’s most famous Buddhist temples.

Where: All three sites can be reached easily by taxi or public transport from most Beijing hotels.

How Much?: 40-60rmb ($10 USD) – Forbidden City, 20-30 RMB ($5 USD) – Summer Palace, and 15rmb ($2.50 USD) – Temple of Heaven.

2. Hike the Great Wall of China

Arguably the most recognizable symbol of China’s rich history, the 21,196km long fortification stretches from Dandong in the country’s east all the way to Lop Lake in its west.

While it’s true that the Badaling section of the wall is often crowded to the point that you’re barely able to see the wall you’re standing atop, there remains a wealth of places where you can not only experience the Great Wall’s majesty – but even have the wall almost entirely to yourself!

Hiking sections of the wall such as Jinshanling or Gubeikou offer you a better idea of both the wall’s age and its sheer scale. Far from the over-touristed and carefully restored sections such as Badaling and Mutianyu, these sections offer a tougher climb and a modicum more peace.

Whether you take a tour through a company like Great Wall Hiking or make the journey yourself, standing atop the Great Wall should be at the top of any Chinese traveler’s to-do list.

Curious? You can read about my experience hiking the Great Wall of China .

Where : The most famous sections of the Great Wall can be reached from Beijing in 1-3 hours, but the wall itself stretches as far inland as Inner Mongolia.

Cost : 45 – 65rmb ($8 – $10 USD) depending on the section of the Great Wall. Tours and additional activities are extra.

3. Wander the Bund in Shanghai

While Shanghai’s skyline is today defined by the modern skyscrapers of the rapidly developing Pudong region, it was once defined by a collection of European constructed and owned buildings that today comprise The Bund.

Walking along the shores of The Bund is a journey through architectural history, as buildings from such varied styles as Gothic, Renaissance and Romanesque vie for attention in the city’s former financial centre.

Whether you take in the atmosphere by day or soak in the twinkling lights of Pudong by night, time spent on The Bund is bound to be one of your more enduring memories of Shanghai.

A fan of Willie Wonka? The bizarre sightseeing tunnel is a dizzying aural and visual experience. Tickets are 55rmb ($9.50 USD) for a round trip.

Where : The Bund can be reached via taxi, ferry, bus, subway, or the famous sightseeing tunnel.

Cost : Free.

4. See the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an

Standing as silent testament to the will of Emperor Qin Shi Huang , the ranks of China’s Terracotta Warriors are one of the nation’s most beloved cultural icons.

With each warrior being a unique sculpture, the Terracotta Warriors were an archaeological gold mine upon their discovery and remain one of China’s most popular tourist attractions.

Want to know more about the Terracotta Warriors? Adventures Around Asia has a fantastic article on their history and how to get there.

Where : The Terracotta Warriors can be reached from Xi’an by private car or public bus.

Cost : 120 – 150rmb ($18 – $22 USD).

5. See the giant pandas in Chengdu

China isn’t all ancient cities and dusty old relics. The country’s endemic giant pandas are one of the world’s most beloved animals.

For those wanting an up-close and personal experience with these gentle giants, the world-famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding , in Sichuan is the place to be.

Home to more than eighty giant pandas (and a small collection of the no less adorable red panda), is the place to go if you want to see these gorgeous creatures up close and learn more about them.

Where : You can reach the Chengdu Panda Centre by public bus or taxi from Chengdu.

Cost : 58rmb ($10 USD).

6. Shop for souvenirs along Nanjing East Road

While China tries hard to crack down on its reputation as a place for fakes, it remains a popular place to bargain for designer brands that might fetch much higher prices elsewhere.

Stretching for more than three miles and featuring over 600 businesses, the always bustling Nanjing East Road is a dizzying cacophony of sights, smells, and sounds.

Whether you’re hunting for an authentic Chinese souvenir or the latest in fashion or technology, Nanjing East Road is sure to offer up something.

Where : Nanjing East Road stretches from The Bund to Jing’an Temple in Shanghai, and can be reached by public transport or taxi.

7. See Shanghai from The Pearl

While Yuyuan Gardens showcases Shanghai’s Chinese history and The Bund stands as a testament to its international occupation, the towering silhouette of The Pearl stands as a tribute to modern China.

While you’re coming for the view from the Aerial Sightseeing Corridor, The Pearl offers visitors a number of activities to engage both young and old.

The Oriental Pearl Science Fantasy World, Shanghai Municipal History Museum, and a revolving buffet restaurant are all on site as well.

Where : The Pearl is located in Shanghai’s Pudong district, and can be reached by taxi or public transport.

Cost : 160 – 220rmb ($23 – $32 USD). Lunch is 338rmb ($49 USD) for a buffet.

8. Eat Peking duck in Beijing

No trip to China would be complete without devouring this delectable dish.

While it’s available all over China, eating Peking (Beijing) duck in the nation’s capital is something that should be on any culinary bucket list.

There’s no shortage of options in Beijing, and you’ll find a wealth of articles debating which restaurant offers the best value for money and best quality.

For me, I think the best Beijing duck in the city can be found at DaDong. You can read more about my experience here .

Not sure how to eat Beijing duck? Check out this helpful resource: A Foreigner’s Survival Guide to Ordering and Eating Beijing Duck .

Where : All over Beijing. Check out this list for some inspiration.

Cost : 50-200rmb per person ($10 – $40 USD).

9. Visit Tiananmen Square

Infamous for its role in the massacre that China continues to claim didn’t happen, Tiananmen Square is one of the world’s largest public squares and a popular tourist spot located just across the road from the Forbidden City.

The most recognizable building will undoubtedly be the 600-year-old Tiananmen Tower, but the Square is also home to other buildings such as the National Museum of China and the final resting place of controversial figure, Chairman Mao.

Where : Tiananmen Square is located opposite the Forbidden City’s front entrance.

Cost : Free. 15rmb ($3 USD) to climb Tiananmen Tower.

10. Take a cruise along the Yangtze

One of the twin cradles of Chinese civilization (alongside the Yellow River), the mighty Yangtze is the longest river in China and the third longest river in the world.

Major cities along the river include Chongqing, Nanjing, and Shanghai – but it is the scenic gorges, especially Three Gorges, that are the highlights of any Yangtze River cruise.

There are no shortage of options and itineraries when looking to spend some time upon the river, and many itineraries combine the river with nearby attractions such as Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yellow Mountain, the Leshan Giant Buddha, West Lake, and much more.

Where : The Yangtze River stretches from the Tibetan plateau all the way to Shanghai. Cruises start in a number of major cities.

Cost : Dependent on itinerary and provider, cruises range from $500 – $3000 USD per person.

11. Visit Yuyuan Gardens

A classic example of a Chinese garden, Yuyuan Gardens in Shanghai is one of the most accessible and impressive examples of the art form.

At 20,000 square metres, the park is relatively small by Chinese standards but packs a lot into the small space including pavilions, rockeries, ponds, bridges, and a bustling bazaar.

Highlights of the gardens include the Bridge of Nine Turns, the Exquisite Jade Rock, and the Yuyuan Bazaar. Be sure to grab Shanghai’s famous  xiaolongbao  (soup dumplings) while you’re there!

Where : Yuyuan Gardens is a short walk from The Bund, and can also be reached by taxi or public transport.

Cost : 40rmb ($8 USD).

The Unmissable

Got more than a week to spend in China? Here’s a collection of the very best the country has to offer.

From breathtaking national parks to underrated historical gems to fascinating cultural experiences, this list of twenty-five Chinese itinerary ideas is sure to inspire.

12. Walk Huashan’s “Plank of Death”

It’s rare you’ll go more than a week without seeing some viral video of this death-defying hike on social media.

Sometimes called “the world’s most dangerous hike”, Huashan’s Plank of Death is just a small part of a Huashan Scenic Area in Shaanxi province. With three routes of varying difficulty, the mountain itself is worth your time, even if you’re a bit too chicken to tackle the precarious ladder and plank portion of the hike.

Curious to learn more? Adventures Around Asia has a great article on the Huashan plank walk .

Where : Huashan can be reached by train, bus, or private car from Xi’an.

Cost : 180rmb ($27 USD) for entry. 30rmb ($5 USD) for harness rental. Cable car extra.

13. Visit the Nanjing Massacre Memorial

The atrocities committed by Japan in Asia both before and during World War II are often glossed over in the west, but China very much remembers the nefarious acts of their would-be conquerors.

The Rape of Nanking was a nightmarish period of six weeks in which the Japanese perpetuated mass rape and mass murder against the population of the former Chinese capital. Between 50,000 and 300,000 people lost their lives during the occupation.

Today, the city remembers the darkest period in its history at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial. Part museum and part somber memorial, it stands as a haunting reminder of the very worst of mankind.

Where : The Memorial can be reached easily by bus, taxi, or subway. Nanjing is a 90-minute train ride from Shanghai.

14. Visit Yellow Mountain and Hongcun Village

A region of towering stone spires, twisted pines and stunning sunrises, Yellow Mountain is arguably China’s most famous mountain.

Visitors come from all over China and around the world to see Huangshan’s bizarrely shaped rocks and trees jutting from a sea of shifting mists. It’s truly one of China’s most surreal and beautiful locations.

When you’re done soaking in nature’s beauty, nearby Hongcun Village is a step back in time, epitomizing Qing and Ming era architecture as well as presenting visitors with unspoiled rural panoramas. For those wanting an escape from bustling modern China, it’s a breath of fresh air.

Where : Huangshan is located in Anhui province. It can be reached by bus or train from Hangzhou or Shanghai, or can be flown to.

Cost : 150 – 230rmb ($21 – $34 USD) for Huangshan. 105rmb ($15 USD) for Hongcun Village.

15. Explore Tiger Leaping Gorge

One of the most breathtaking landscapes not just in China, but in the world – Tiger Leaping Gorge boasts the snow-capped peaks, dramatic cliffs, and terraced farms that inspired the landscapes of Kung Fu Panda .

Hikes vary in length and difficulty, but you’d be hard-pressed to find somebody returning from the gorge without a sense of wonder.

It’s not easy to get there on the uneven roads, but it’s worth the effort.

Where : The closest city is Lijiang and can be reached by local bus.

Cost : 65rmb ($10 USD) for an open-ended ticket.

16. Gamble in Macau

With annual gambling revenue seven times that of Las Vegas, Macau is the true sin city when it comes to games of chance.

A former Portuguese colony, the city still very much wears its colonial history on its sleeve, Macau offers a charming contrast of historic European buildings and glitzy casinos catering to the world’s largest gambling market.

Like Las Vegas, Macau is more than just gambling – with bungee jumping, shopping, live entertainment, greyhound racing, and a number of historic sites also worth your time.

Where : Macau is a special administrative zone that can be reached via ferry from the mainland (Shenzhen), bus, car, or flight.

Cost : There is no cost to enter Macau.

17. Soak in the Sanya sun

White sand beaches and crystal clear waters aren’t the first things that come to mind when you picture China, but the country’s southernmost province is an island paradise the likes of which you’d expect to find in Southeast Asia.

A popular playground for the Chinese and Russians in particular, Sanya boasts some remarkably picturesque beaches – the most famous of which is Yalong Bay.

In addition to sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling – the island of Hainan is a playground of resorts, spas, floating restaurants, and amusement parks perfect for a family getaway.

Nanshan Temple is also worth a look, with its towering three-sided statue of Guan Yin Buddha being a highlight.

You can read about my Christmas in Hainan if you’d like to know more.

Where : Sanya is located in southern China, and can be reached by regularly scheduled flights from all over the country and abroad.

Cost : Varies depending on accommodation and activities. The island boasts everything from backpacker’s hostels to five-star resorts. Check all the options with Cozycozy !”

18. Explore Jiuzhaigou

Bright blue waters so clear you can see every leaf on the lake floor, beautiful waterfalls that cascade down tier after tier after tier and verdant forest whose leaves paint the surrounding mountains in an explosion of colours make Jiuzhaigou one of the most surreal and beautiful locations in all of China.

Located far from the hustle and bustle of modern China, this stunning valley high in the Sichuan tablelands is an unspoiled paradise in which wild pandas still roam to this day.

While you’re highly unlikely to see the park’s most famous residents during your visit, the landscape and the quiet mountain villages after which the park is named are sure to spellbind.

Where : Jiuzhaigou can be reached via flights to the nearby airport or by taking a bus from Chengdu.

Cost : 220rmb ($32 USD)

19. See the giant Buddha in Leshan

Located just a short bus or train ride from Chengdu, Leshan is home to the world’s tallest stone Buddha in the world and the largest pre-modern statue in the world.

Like something out of ancient fiction, this towering (71 metre) representation of Maitreya sits solemnly on the banks of the Qingyi River. With its proximity to Chengdu’s panda centre, it’s a perfect day trip. In fact, there are many Chengdu tours that combine the two!

Where : Leshan can be reached by bus or train from Chengdu, or by ferry from Chongqing.

Cost : 90rmb ($13 USD).

20. Take a ride around (and on) West Lake

Immortalized on the 1 RMB note, Hangzhou’s West Lake is a picture of serenity – all swaying willows, tranquil ponds, gracefully arching bridges, and meticulously manicured gardens.

Surrounded on three sides by mountains, the lake is one of China’s most popular tourist attractions, and the perfect place to while away a day in spring, summer, or fall.

Popular activities at West Lake include renting bikes to cycle its bridges and shores, taking a scenic ferry ride out onto its waters, and visiting the famous Leifeng Pagoda.

Hangzhou itself is a wonderfully green and relaxed city, and its proximity to Shanghai makes it an easy addition to even the most crowded itinerary.

Where : West Lake is located in Hangzhou, which is a short train or bus ride from Shanghai. The city is also served by its own international airport.

Cost : Free. Leifeng Pagoda, boat rides, and bike rental attract their own cost.

21. Visit one of China’s famous water cities

Canal cities might be more closely associated with Europe’s Venice, but China has a long history of settlements built on or around the water.

These water cities offer a charming glimpse into simpler times, and while some have become tourist traps, many retain much of their old world charm after hundreds of years.

Hongcun (mentioned earlier) is arguably the most famous of the water cities, but Tai’erzhuang in Shandong and Zhouzhang near Shanghai are also popular options.

If you’re looking for something a little more authentic, Tongli, Xitang, and Nanxun near Shanghai are better options.

Where : There are water towns scattered across China. Check out this list of Chinese water towns for some Shanghai adjacent inspiration.

Cost : Varies dependent on the town and its level of commercialism.

22. See the Longsheng rice terraces

China’s rice terraces are picturesque no matter where you go, but the Longsheng Rice Terraces near Guilin are the unquestioned king. Otherwise known as the Dragon’s Backbone, this classic example of Chinese agricultural ingenuity shouldn’t be missed.

A study in bucolic beauty, the terraces are surrounded by quaint villages where the adventurous tourist can get a taste of the real China. Covering 66 square kilometres, the various terraces have plenty of space – so you’ll rarely feel overcrowded while you soak in the serenity.

Where : The scenic area can be reached by bus from Guilin.

Cost : 80rmb ($12 USD) for a two-day pass.

23. Take a ride along the Li River in Guilin

Dramatic karst rock formations, indifferent water buffalo munching on their meals in the shallows, idyllic rice paddies, and bamboo rafts flitting along the Li River’s surface like water bugs combine to make it one of China’s most beautiful regions.

Another Chinese landmark immortalized on the nation’s currency, the Li River is a step back in time. Fishermen use cormorants to catch fish, disinterested farmers trudge through their paddies, and it’s all as you imagine China might have been hundreds of years ago.

Taking a bamboo raft down the Li River is definitely one for any self-respecting Chinese bucket list. You can also take a more traditional cruise, soar above it all by helicopter, or even hike the Li River’s banks.

Where : The Li River is located close to Guilin.

Cost : Varies based on how you want to tackle the river. River rafts range from 50-200rmb ($7 – $30 USD).

24. See the Avatar mountains

Avatar might not have left much of an impression once the 3D glasses came off, but you’d be a tough judge to not be impressed by the soaring karst pinnacles of Zhangjiajie National Park.

Jutting up into the clouds like spears, the mesas of Zhangjiajie inspired the surreal scenery in James Cameron’s CGI blockbuster, and inspired hundreds of thousands of tourists each and every year.

Nearby Tianmen Mountain is an impressive sight all of its own, and doesn’t draw quite the crowds that the park itself does.

Where : Flights to Zhangjiajie depart from most major Chinese cities, and you can also get there by taking a lengthy train ride of 10+ hours.

Cost : 248rmb ($36 USD) for the park. 248rb ($36 USD) for Tianmen Mountain.

25. Soak in the serenity of Dali

A charming lakeside town which can boast startling ethnic diversity, Yunnan’s Dali is the laid back alternative to more modern Kunming.

Nearby Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake lend the city some real natural beauty, while manmade wonders such as the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple contribute with their own unique beauty.

Dali isn’t so much a city you see as it is one you experience – a modern day Shangri-La that backpackers from around the world have fallen in love with.

Where : Dali is located in northern Yunnan, and can be reached by bus or train from Kunming.

26. Visit Potala Palace in Tibet

Tibet’s inclusion in China may remain a source of hot debate, but there’s no debating the stunning beauty of Potala Palace in Lhasa.

Once the home to the Dalai Lama, the five-hundred-year-old Potala Palace stands some 100 metres above Lhasa and an astonishing 3,750 metres above sea level, making it the highest palace in the world.

While access to Tibet is hard to negotiate and access to the palace even more so, even taking in its majesty Lhasa should be a goal for any lover of architecture and religious history.

Where : Potala Palace is located in Lhasa, Tibet. It can easily be reached by taking a local bus or taxi.

Cost : 100 – 200rmb ($14 – $28 USD).

27. Get lost in Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter

While many people visit Xi’an each year to see the Terracotta Warriors, you’d be doing yourself an injustice if you didn’t take the time to explore China’s former capital more thoroughly.

Xi’an once acted as the starting point for the famous Silk Road, and as a hub of Asian trade, it attracted a considerable Middle Eastern influence over the centuries. This influence remains today, and the Muslim Quarter is both a living museum of historic Muslim architecture, but also a culinary journey of delicious foods found nowhere else in well-traveled China.

It’s an interesting insight into a China that isn’t the stereotype of fried rice and mahjong.

Where : Located in Xi’an, the Muslim Quarter can be reached by taxi or local bus.

28. Eat at the world’s cheapest Michelin star restaurant

Hong Kong’s first entry on the list is a delicious one, and it’s one that won’t break your bank. It’s not often you get to eat at a Michelin Star restaurant for cheap, but Hong Kong’s Tim Ho Wan Dim Sum is just that.

While the small eatery has gone on to spawn an entire chain, the original is still considered the best, and no visit to Hong Kong would be complete without trying the restaurant’s world class selection of dim sum.

Got your appetite up? Check out Sassy Hong Kong’s post on Tim Ho Wan .

Where : There are four Tim Ho Wan locations in Hong Kong. See the above article for addresses.

Cost : Roughly $150 USD for dinner for two.

29. See Hong Kong from atop Victoria Peak

The best place to take in Hong Kong’s twinkling skyline, Victoria Peak is one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist destinations day or night.

The more active can choose to hike their way up to the peak, but the popular Peak Tram is a scenic and more comfortable alternative. Tickets are HK$40 ($5.10 USD) return.

Once at the top, there are a number of tourist attractions include Madame Tussauds, Sky Terrace 428 (Hong Kong’s highest viewing platform), and more.

A Different View

Would you rather see Hong Kong from above while also breaking a sweat? KKday offers a Beacon Hill rock-climbing tour that affords a similarly spectacular view of the city.

Where : The lower terminus can be reached by MRT.

30. Eat hot pot in Chongqing

While hot pot is available all over China, Chongqing’s take on the popular spicy broth is perhaps its most famous variant.

Featuring Sichuan’s famous mouth-numbing pepper and a number of other unique ingredients, Chongqing hot pot isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s a challenge any adventurous eater should be up for.

Where : Chongqing is overflowing with restaurants serving up this popular local delicacy, although you can find it in Sichuan restaurants all over the country.

Cost: Varies.

31. Visit the Mausoleum of San Yat Sen in Nanjing

While he’s not as (in)famous outside of China as Chairman Mao, Dr. Sun Yat Sen’s role in forming both modern China and modern Taiwan cannot be overstated.

A political revolutionary revered on both sides of the Taiwan Strait for his role in introducing democracy (such as it is) to both Chinas, Sun Yat Sen’s life was one of constant struggle and turmoil.

For those wishing to pay their respects for the unique political figure, his mausoleum can be visited at Purple Mountain in Nanjing.

An impressive construction in its own right, the Mausoleum’s proximity to other Purple Mountain attractions such as the original Ming Tomb and the nearby parklands makes it a perfect day trip from the city.

Where : Purple Mountain Scenic Area can be reached from Nanjing by bus, train, or local taxi.

Cost : Entrance to the Mausoleum is free, but Purple Mountain costs 15rmb ($2.20 USD).

32. Visit Qinghai Lake

China’s largest lake, Qinghai Lake is a 4,317 square kilometer saltwater lake famed for its serenity and the lush grasslands that surround its occasionally frosty shores.

The lake itself may not seem especially spectacular, but the utter quiet that surrounds it and the diverse ethnicities that live in the area make it an intriguing cultural journey. Boat rides, bird watching, and cycling are also popular activities.

It’s well off the tourist trail and at high altitude, so it’s not one for the pampered or the faint of heart.

Want something even more off the beaten track? Check out the starkly beautiful Chaka Lake, which is also in the Qinghai province.

Where : Buses can be taken from the city of Xining.

33. Visit the Ming Tombs

One not to be missed while in Beijing, the thirteen tombs of Ming Emperors whose combined reign stretched from 1368 – 1644.

While only certain parts of the massive complex are open at any given time, the chance to wander its famous Sacred Way and visit a few of its large tomb complexes is one worth jumping on.

While the original Ming Tomb can be found in Nanjing, these thirteen are better known and represent a greater portion of the once great dynasty.

Where : You can reach the Ming Tombs by bus, taxi, or subway from Beijing. It is often combined with a visit to the nearby Badaling section of the Great Wall.

Cost : 100 – 130rmb ($15 – $19 USD).

34. Attend the Harbin Ice Festival

The world’s largest ice sculpture festival, the annual Harbin Ice & Snow Festival sees the northern Chinese city transformed into a winter wonderland of impressive structures of snow and ice lit by brightly coloured lights.

Running throughout the cold winter months (December – February), the festival sees millions of people visit the three venues that host the various ice and snow sculptures.

Temperatures range from -10C to -25C during the festival, so pack warm!

Where : Harbin can be reached by flights, long-distance train, or long distance bus from Beijing and other major cities.

Cost : 240rmb for Sun Island ($35 USD), 330rmb for Ice & Snow World ($48 USD), and 150rmb for Zhaolin Park ($22 USD).

35. See Asia’s highest waterfall in Guizhou

Standing at 74 metres in height and 81 metres in width, the impressive Huangguoshou Falls in Guizhou province is the largest waterfall in Asia.

With a thunderous roar, the waters of the falls plunge into the Rhinoceros Pool and awe crowds of tourists from all over the world. Accompanied by a number of other waterfalls, it makes for a thrilling (and slightly moist) day out.

Where : You can take a bus from Anshun or Jinyang.

Cost : 160 – 180rmb ($23 – $26 USD).

36. Get off Beijing’s beaten track in the hutongs

My absolute favourite district of Beijing is the cluster of dusty laneways and cute boutiques that make up its hutong district.

While modern Beijing has precious little time for the grimy local restaurants and crowded courtyard tenements of the city’s past, there remains a lot to love in these window alleyways where people live, play, eat, and do pretty much everything else.

Hutongs such as Wudaoying and Fengjia near Andingmen are a delightful mix of authentic China and modern hipster charm, with microbreweries, cute cafes, art galleries, local dives, fashion boutiques, and everything in between to be found.

Where : Get off at Andingmen Station and explore.

The Off the Beaten Path

Are you a seasoned China veteran looking for something truly unusual to do?

Have you tackled most or all of the above and rolled your eyes?

Here are some of the more obscure, off the beaten track places to visit in China.

37. Drink Tsingtao in Qingdao

If you’ve spent any time at all in China or have a taste for foreign beers, you’ve probably heard of Tsingtao. While it’s not the most popular beer in China (that honour goes to Snow), it’s definitely China’s most famous malty export.

If you’re wanting to take your love affair with Tsingtao to a new level, you can pay a visit to the German-inspired beach town of Qingdao. Home to both the Tsingtao Brewery & Museum and the Qingdao International Beer Festival , it’s a place for a beer lover’s pilgrimage.

Beyond the suds, Qingdao is a picturesque city of beaches, clifftop art installations, German architecture, and good food.

Where : Qingdao is served by an international airport and a high-speed train station. It is roughly halfway between Shanghai and Beijing.

Cost : Free. Entry to the Beer Museum is 60rmb ($10 USD) and includes two beers. Tickets for the Beer Festival are 20-30rmb ($4 – $5 USD).

38. Drive the Karakoram Highway

One of the most scenic drives you’re ever likely to encounter, the Karakoram Highway connects the historic Silk Road city of Kashgar with the Sino-Pakistani border high in the mountains.

A day long drive that takes you through sun-blasted desert, swaying grasslands, high mountain passes, and past churning glacial rivers – this is a drive that’s all about the journey and not the destination.

Notable stops along the way include the fiery Red Mountain, the icy beauty of Karakul Lake, the historic Stone Fort in Tashkurgan, the snow-capped Sand Mountain, the serene Golden Grasslands, and the snowy silence of Kunjerab Pass.

You can read more about my epic journey along the Karakoram Highway .

Where : The Karakoram Highway begins in Kashgar in China’s Xinjiang province. Flights to Kashgar typically come via Urumqi.

Cost : Tours vary in length and cost.

39. Take the Qinghai-Tibet Railway

From the road to the rail, we focus on the world’s highest altitude railway. Connecting traditional China with Tibet, this near 2,000 kilometre stretch of rail covers some of the most visually stunning terrains in China.

Stretching from Xining all the way to Lhasa, the high-speed train cuts across a hugely diverse assortment of landscapes before ascending into Tibet – where oxygen masks may be needed due to the high altitude.

You’ll also need to arrange a  Tibet tour  ahead of your trip, as independent travelers are not permitted in the region.

Where : The train departs from Xining, and has seven stops along the way.

Cost : Tickets range from 224rmb ($32 USD) for a seat to 781rmb ($115) for a sleeper.

40. Go horseback riding in Inner Mongolia

People are often surprised to learn that there is an Inner Mongolia, but the vast grass sea of this northern Chinese province is sure to put you in mind of the vast Mongol hordes who once ravaged China.

A distinctly different culture makes a visit to Inner Mongolia akin to visiting an entirely different country. Here, you’ll find a land of boundless grasslands that sway in the breeze, nomadic herdsmen, primitive yurts, and sun-baked deserts at odds with China’s modern metropolises.

No visit to the region would be complete without slipping into the saddle and seeing the grasslands from horseback. The horse was a vital part of what made Mongolia such a threat to ancient China, and to see Inner Mongolia from horseback is truly a bucket list experience.

Where : Inner Mongolia is served by both international and domestic airports.

Cost : 5rmb (less than $1 USD).

41. See the Caucasian mummies in Urumqi

Creating mummies is not the sole domain of ancient Egypt, although Xinjiang’s controversial ‘Tamin Mummies’ were created by the province’s heat and dry rather than religious ritual.

Why controversial? The near 4,000-year-old Loulan Beauty is distinctly Caucasian in her features, which is at odds with modern China’s assertions that Xinjiang has always been a part of China.

The Xinjiang Museum in which the mummies reside is worth a visit while in the provincial capital, with exhibits on the province’s melting pot of ethnicities as well as its vital role in the ancient Silk Road.

You can read more about the Xinjiang Museum on Far West China.

Where : The Xinjiang Museum is located in Urumqi, and can be reached by taxi or local bus.

42. See the thousand Buddhas of the Mogao Caves

Sometimes known as the Thousand Buddha Grottos, the Mogao Caves in China’s Gansu province are home to a startling collection of Buddhist artworks dating back more than 1,000 years.

Exploring the 750+ caves is like artistic time travel, as you’ll see different styles and mediums used in celebration of the Buddhist religion. These range from towering statues to intricate murals – a truly inspiring display of religious devotion.

Where : The Mogao Caves can be reached by bus or taxi from Dunhuang.

Cost: 220rmb ($32 USD).

43. Visit the coloured pools of Huanglong

Not far from stunning Jiuzhaigou in northern Sichuan is another stunning natural wonder, Huanglong. Like Jiuzhaigou, it is a distinctly beautiful park of waterfalls, coloured pools, and virgin forest, but Huanglong’s famous fairy pools possess a charm all of their own.

A place of almost alien beauty, Huanglong is well and truly off the beaten path, and visitors can expect peace and quiet while they soak in the park’s otherworldly beauty.

Want to see both Jiuzhaigou  and  Huanglong? Why not try a Jiuzhaigou tour ?

Where : Buses can be taken from Chengdu or Jiuzhaigou.

Cost : 200rmb ($30 USD).

44. Visit Dalian

A relatively young city by Chinese standards, Dalian is a beachside city with an impressive collection of Russian architecture due to its former state as a Russian settlement.

The city’s extensive coastline makes for some pretty dramatic views, and Dalian is considered one of China’s premier seafood destinations on par with Guangdong in the nation’s south.

Highlights in Dalian include the Bangchuidao Scenic Area with its hills and forests and the family friendly Tiger Beach Ocean Park.

Where : Dalian is served by an international airport as well as high-speed trains and long distance buses.

45. Be humbled by Heavenly Lake, Changbaishan

As if the breathtaking lake and the chance to stand on a volcano aren’t incentive enough, Changbai National Park is also home to a hugely diverse selection of Chinese animals including bears, lynx, leopards, deer, and the Siberian tiger!

You can keep your pandas, people – I’d die a happy man if I ever got to see a tiger in the wild and lived to tell the tale.

The park’s most famous sight is undoubtedly Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), a stunning crater lake that is worth a look at any time of year, but especially gorgeous during the snowy winter months.

Where : Take a taxi or private car from Erdaobaihe County, which can be reached by train or by flying in to Yanji Airport.

Cost : 125rmb ($18 USD).

46. Go bamboo rafting at Mt. Wuyi

A stunningly diverse region of river canyons and dense forest, the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian province is especially famous for the opportunity to raft Nine Bend River and take in the surrounding scenery.

The more adventurous will find a number of hiking trails to really get them close to nature, but a public bus within the park makes it accessible for all ages.

Where : Take a taxi from Wuyishan or a train from Xiamen or Fuzhou.

Cost : 210rmb ($30 USD).

47. Ride camels across the Gobi Desert to see Crescent Lake

A stunning contrast reminiscent of Tatooine in the Star Wars movies, Crescent Lake and Echoing Sand Mountain are a startling juxtaposition of towering dune and verdant oasis located in Gansu province.

The crescent-shaped lake exists at odds with the shifting sands of the Gobi Desert, and visitors can cool off on its shores before embarking on thrilling desert adventures such as riding camels across the dunes, sandboarding, or ATVing.

Where : Echoing Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake are both located a short bus or taxi ride from Dunhuang.

Cost : 120rmb ($17 USD). Additional cost for activities.

48. See the Kaiping Fortress Towers

Guangdong province in China’s south is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s not without its appeals.

One of the more dramatic landmarks in the province are the Kaiping Fortress Towers. Built in the waning years of the Qing Dynasty, these watchtowers and fortifications now stand solemn vigil over idyllic farmlands – making for a unique photo opportunity.

Want to learn more? Only Original Art has a great piece on their visit to the Kaiping Fortresses .

Where : Kaiping City is located a short bus ride from Guangzhou.

49. Be amazed by Fenghuang

Known as one of the most beautiful towns in China, Fenghuang in Hunan is a classic example of a water city comprised of gracefully curving bridges, stilted houses, and boats skimming through the canals.

Sometimes called Phoenix Ancient Town, Fenghuang lies on the banks of the Tuo Jiang River and its Miao people derive much of their livelihood from its waters.

Despite its popularity with tourists, the town remains as a kind of living museum for simpler times.

Where : Fenghuang can be reached by bus from either Changsha or Zhangjiajie National Park.

Cost : 148rmb ($21 USD).

50. Live like a local in rural China

For those really wanting to experience China away from its bustling city, it pays to get well and truly off the beaten track and visit a place not renowned for tourism.

You’ll need some Mandarin or world-class charades skills most of the time and you might have trouble finding hotels that can take foreign guests, but you’ll see China as it truly is – rather than as its state-owned media wishes it to be portrayed.

There’s no hard and fast guide on how you should do this, but stopping at one of those towns that lie between your starting point and your destination might be a good way to go about it.

You can read about my experience in rural China as a foreigner in Lianyungang .

Where : All over China.

As you can see, there are a wealth of things to do and see while traveling in China.

Whatever your budget, there is something for everyone.

Check out The Broke Backpacker’s fantastic China budget travel guide to get started planning your trip!

Worried about missing out on your favourite shows behind China’s infamous Great Firewall? Learn how to change your Prime location to access content when in China .

Do you have any favourite spots in China that warrant their place on this list?

How many of the above have you made it to?

Don’t hesitate to suggest your own inclusions, as I am looking to expand this list to 100 items in 2018!

Looking for more bucket list inspiration?

Don’t forget to check out my other comprehensive bucket lists!

• The Ultimate Japan Bucket List
• The Ultimate South Korea Bucket List
• The Ultimate Australia Bucket List

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40 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in China

China , a land of unrivaled beauty, unfolds like a masterpiece across its expansive canvas of 9.6 million square kilometers. From the misty Jiangnan region in the east to the snow-capped mountains of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau  in the west, China offers a wide variety of natural wonders , including rivers , lakes, grasslands, deserts, and forests.

CNN , renowned for its discerning eye, has meticulously curated a selection of China's top 40 most beautiful places. Building upon this illustrious list, our esteemed team of travel experts at Asia Odyssey Travel now presents to the world these 40 most beautiful places in China , inviting travelers to embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating tapestry of China. Prepare to be captivated as you witness the harmonious convergence of nature's wonders, unveiling a panorama so breathtaking, it will leave an indelible mark upon your soul. Get inspired now by AOT's list of China's 40 most beautiful places!

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1. Great Wall, Beijing - A Must-Do for Any Traveler in China

The Great Wall (长城) , one of the world's most iconic landmarks, is a must-visit attraction when in Beijing . Spanning over 21,000 kilometers, this ancient wonder offers a glimpse into China's rich history and architectural marvels. Located about 60-130 kilometers (1-2 hours’ drive) from Beijing , the Great Wall provides an unforgettable experience for travelers. There are several sections in Beijing, including Mutianyu , Badaling, Jinshanling , Jiankou , Simatai , and Huanghuacheng Great Wall. The best section for you depends on your interests, fitness level, and travel style.

• For families and first-time visitors: Mutianyu and Badaling offer easy access and stunning views.
• For adventurous hikers: Jiankou and Gubeikou provide a challenging and authentic experience.
• For history buffs: Jinshanling and Gubeikou offer well-preserved sections with rich historical significance.

Hike along its winding paths, marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site . You can learn about the wall's construction and appreciate its magnificence up close.

Practical Tips: Choose a section of the Great Wall that suits your fitness level and interests.The most popular sections are Mutianyu and Badaling, but there are many less crowded options available.Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall

4 Days Beijing Tour: City Highlights, Great Wall Night Views & Gubei Water Tour

2. Forbidden City, Beijing - Step into China's Imperial Past

The Forbidden City (故宫) , located in the heart of Beijing , is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the grandeur and history of imperial China. With its impressive architecture and cultural significance, it is a must-visit attraction for travelers. The Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for over 500 years that served as the residence of 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties  and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Situated in downtown  Beijing , the Forbidden City is easily accessible for visitors. Once inside, you can explore the vast complex and marvel at its stunning palaces, ceremonial halls, and beautiful gardens . Take your time to admire the intricate details of the buildings and learn about the lives of emperors and their courtiers.

There are several top things to do in the Forbidden City. Walk along the central axis and explore the imperial chambers, visit the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Hall of Preserving Harmony. Don't miss the opportunity to see the treasures housed in the Palace Museum, which displays a remarkable collection of imperial artifacts.

Practical Tips: Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.Allow at least 3-4 hours to explore the Forbidden City thoroughly.Audio guides are available for rent to enhance your understanding of the historical significance of each site.

2 Days Beijing World Heritage Tour with Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall

3. Terracotta Warriors, Xian - Awe-inspiring Archaeological Marvel with the Past

The Terracotta Warriors  (兵马俑) in Xian , Shaanxi, are a remarkable archaeological site that attracts visitors from around the world. Discovered in 1974, this ancient army of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots was created to accompany Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. The site showcases the incredible craftsmanship and historical significance of the Qin Dynasty.

Situated approximately 40 kilometers from Xian , the Terracotta Warriors are easily accessible for tourists. Once there, you can explore the three excavation pits, each revealing different aspects of the army's formation and weaponry. Witness the sheer magnitude of the army and marvel at the intricate details of each individual statue.

Practical Tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.Allow ample time to explore the vast excavation site and admire the Terracotta Warriors from various angles.Audio guides are available to provide context and insights into the historical significance of the Terracotta Army.

3 Days Xi'an Essence Tour: Terracotta Warriors, City Wall & Tang Dynasty Everbright City

3 Days Xian Family Tour with Chinese Calligraphy & Hanfu Experience

4. The Bund, Shanghai - A Stroll Through Shanghai's Architectural Grandeur

The Bund (外滩) , located in the metropolis Shanghai , is an iconic waterfront area that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. With its stunning skyline views and architectural marvels, it is a must-visit destination in Shanghai. The Bund stretches along the Huangpu River and showcases a collection of colonial-era buildings that once housed banks and trading houses.

Situated in the heart of Shanghai, the Bund is easily accessible for visitors. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and admire the architectural beauty of the buildings , such as the neoclassical Bund Customs House and the Art Deco Peace Hotel. Marvel at the contrast between the historical structures and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the river.

There are several top things to do in the Bund area. Take a Huangpu River Cruise  to fully appreciate the panoramic views of the skyline. Explore the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, an underground tunnel that connects the Bund to Pudong, offering a unique visual experience. Visit the Shanghai Museum of Art or indulge in some retail therapy at Nanjing Road, a bustling shopping street nearby.

Practical Tips: Visit during the day to appreciate the architectural details and the bustling river activity.Take a leisurely boat ride on the Huangpu River for a unique perspective of the cityscape.Capture panoramic views of the Bund from the rooftop bar of the Peninsula Hotel.

Classic Shanghai Day Tour - A Glimpse of China's Magic City

3 Days Best Shanghai Tour: Encounter Old and New Shanghai

5. Jiuzhaigou Valley, Sichuan - Unveiling the Enchantment of "Fairyland on Earth"

Jiuzhaigou Valley (九寨沟) , located in Sichuan province , is a mesmerizing destination that captivates travelers with its stunning natural beauty. With its turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, Jiuzhaigou Valley is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Situated around 330 kilometers from Chengdu , Jiuzhaigou Valley is easily accessible by flight (1 hour), bus or private transfer. The journey for private car takes approximately 8-10 hours, but the scenic landscapes along the way make it worthwhile. When the high-speed train opens, you'll be able to travel directly from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou.

The best time to visit Jiuzhaigou Valley is during the autumn months of September to November  when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Spring , from April to June, is also a great time to visit when the valley comes alive with blooming flowers.

Once in Jiuzhaigou Valley, there are several top things to do. Explore the three main valleys  of Rize, Zechawa, and Shuzheng, each offering their own unique attractions. Marvel at the magnificent Nuorilang and Pearl Shoals waterfalls, take leisurely walks around the picturesque lakes, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the ancient forests. And also, combine with Huanglong Valley for your Jiuzhaigou trip .

Practical Tips: Visit during the autumn foliage season to witness the vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.Allow sufficient time to explore the valley's many scenic spots, including Wuhua Lake, Ruoergai Grassland, and Shuzheng Falls.Consider staying overnight in the valley to fully experience its tranquility and beauty.

5 Days Jiuzhaigou Valley & Panda Tour from Chengdu by Flight

7 Days Sichuan Highlights Tour of Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Leshan and Emei

6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan - Soaring through Nature's Wonderland

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Hunan Province , Zhangjiajie National Forest Park  (张家界国家森林公园) is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This captivating site, renowned for its towering sandstone pillars, mystical rock formations, and diverse ecosystems, promises an unforgettable journey into China's natural wonders. Zhangjiajie National Park is located in the northwestern part of Hunan Province, approximately 40 kilometers from Zhangjiajie City .

Once in the park, there are several top things to do. Take a ride on the famous Bailong Elevator, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Explore the enchanting Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, home to the famous Hallelujah Mountain seen in the movie "Avatar." Hike through Tianzi Mountain: Witness the stunning rock formations, panoramic views, and unique flora and fauna of this iconic mountain. Hike along the Golden Whip Stream, a picturesque trail that winds through lush forests and alongside crystal-clear streams.

Other Recommended Top Things to Do in Zhangjiajie:

• Walk the Glass Bridgeover Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon: Challenge your fear of heights on the world's highest glass bridge and enjoy unparalleled panoramas.
• Explore the Yellow Dragon Cave: Discover a wonderland of colorful geological formations, shimmering pools, and intricate rock formations.
• Relax by Baofeng Lake: Take a boat ride on the serene lake, enjoy the picturesque scenery, and escape the crowds.

Practical Tips: Visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.Allow at least 2-5 days to explore the park's diverse landscapes and attractions.Consider staying in a hotel within the park to fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty.

3 Days In-depth Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tour in Wulingyuan

4 Days Zhangjiajie Best Natural Tour with Glass Bridge & Tianmen Mountain

7. Kanas Lake, Xinjiang - Jewel of Xinjiang

Kanas Lake (喀纳斯) , located in the north Xinjiang, is a hidden gem that beckons travelers with its serene beauty. Known for its crystal-clear waters, surrounding snow-capped mountains, and lush forests, Kanas Lake is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Kanas Lake is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, approximately 500 kilometers from Urumqi .

The best time to visit Kanas Lake is during the  autumn months of September and October  when the foliage transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. Spring and early summer are also ideal for pleasant weather and blooming wildflowers.

Once at Kanas Lake, there are several top things to do. Take a boat ride on the lake to fully appreciate its beauty, hike along the surrounding trails for panoramic views, and visit the Tuwa ethnic village to experience the local culture.

8. Yangshuo, Guangxi - Ultimate Beauty of Karst Countryside Views

Yangshuo (阳朔) , located in the Guangxi region of China , is a captivating destination that draws travelers with its stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture. Surrounded by towering limestone karsts and the picturesque Li River , Yangshuo offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Situated approximately 65 kilometers from Guilin , Yangshuo is easily accessible by Li River cruise (4 hours) or bus, making it a popular side trip for visitors exploring Guilin.

There are several top attractions and activities to experience in Yangshuo. Taking a leisurely boat ride along the Li River  is a must-do, offering breathtaking views of the karst peaks and lush countryside. Exploring the famous West Street  is another highlight, with its lively atmosphere, local handicrafts, and delicious street food. Cycling or bamboo rafting along the Yulong River provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquil rural scenery.

3 Days Guilin Yangshuo Highlights Tour with Li River Cruise & Yulong River

4 Days Guilin Yangshuo & Longji Rice Terraces Classic Tour

9. Yellow Mountain, Huangshan - Ascending into Beauty

Yellow Mountain (黄山) , or Huangshan Mountain, is a majestic destination that attracts travelers with its breathtaking beauty and iconic granite peaks. Known for its ethereal sea of clouds, ancient pine trees, and stunning sunrises, Yellow Mountain is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Situated in the Anhui province , Yellow Mountain is approximately 60 kilometers away from the city of Huangshan .

The best time to visit Yellow Mountain is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. In Summer, enjoy warm weather and clear skies, offering ideal conditions for experiencing the "Sea of Clouds". Winter also are the time to view the snow. Learn more about Best Time to Visit Yellow Mountain >>

Top Things to Do for Visiting Yellow Mountain:

• Hike the "Beginning-to-Wonder" Trail: Embark on this classic trail offering stunning views of the "Sea of Clouds" and iconic peaks like the "Lion Peak" and "Flying Over Rock."
• Climb the "Heavenly Capital Peak": Challenge yourself to reach the highest peak in Yellow Mountain and witness the breathtaking panoramic vistas.
• Visit the "Xihai Grand Canyon": Explore this scenic gorge adorned with waterfalls, natural pools, and unique rock formations.
• Relax at the "Jade Screen Hot Springs": Immerse yourself in the therapeutic hot springs and rejuvenate after a day of exploration.
• Discover the "Fairyland": Explore this hidden gem known for its mystical atmosphere, serene ponds, and ancient temples.

Practical advice for visiting Yellow Mountain includes wearing comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking, bringing layers as temperatures can vary, carrying enough water and snacks for the trek, and being prepared for the crowds during peak seasons. It is also important to follow the designated paths, respect the environment, and take necessary precautions for mountain safety.

4 Day Huangshan Heritage Tour: Yellow Mountain, Hongcun & Xidi Ancient Villages

3 Days Huangshan Essence Tour: Yellow Mountain & Hongcun Village, Tunxi Old Street

10. Potala Palace, Tibet - Majestic Symbol of Tibetan Culture

Dominating the Lhasa skyline, the Potala Palace (布达拉宫)  stands as a majestic symbol of Tibetan culture and history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site , once the residence of the Dalai Lamas, offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Tibet , inviting visitors on a journey through time and tradition. Situated in the capital city of Lhasa , the Potala Palace is conveniently located within the city center, allowing for easy access by foot or taxi.

Admire the imposing red and white facade, explore the intricate carvings and murals, and marvel at the vast collection of statues, frescoes, and religious artifacts housed within. Wander through peaceful courtyards and prayer halls, witness monks chanting and offering prayers, and find solace in the tranquil atmosphere. Ascend to the rooftop and witness panoramic vistas of Lhasa and the surrounding valley, capturing the grandeur of the palace against the backdrop of the Himalayas.

Practical Tips:

• Altitude: Lhasa's high altitude (3,650 meters) can cause . Acclimatize gradually and carry necessary medication.
• Respectful dress code: Dress modestly when visiting the palace, covering shoulders and knees.
• Photography: Photography is permitted in certain areas, but consult the guidelines before taking pictures.

8 Days Tibet Discovery Tour from Lhasa to Mount Everest Base Camp

9 Days Panorama Tibet Tour from Lhasa to EBC with Namtso Lake

11. Mount Everest, Tibet - The Highest Point on Earth

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Mount Everest  (珠峰), known as Chomolungma (珠穆朗玛) in Tibetan, beckons adventure seekers with its breathtaking beauty and imposing presence. Standing as the Earth's highest point , this snow-capped peak inspires awe and challenges climbers from around the world.

For those seeking the ultimate adventure, the trek to Everest Base Camp  is an unforgettable experience. Starting from Lhasa, the journey takes you through stunning landscapes, culminating at the foot of the world's highest mountain. Witness the raw power and grandeur of the Himalayas as you trek through valleys adorned with prayer flags and gaze upon turquoise lakes reflecting the snow-capped peaks.

The north face of Mount Everest is accessible from Lhasa , offering a challenging yet rewarding trek of approximately 620 kilometers (385 miles). This popular route provides a unique perspective of the mountain and allows you to experience the rich Tibetan culture along the way.

Along the trek, you'll have the opportunity to visit Rongbuk Monastery , an ancient Tibetan haven nestled amidst the Himalayas. Explore the vibrant murals and soak in the serene atmosphere of this sacred place. This cultural immersion adds another dimension to your adventure, offering a deeper understanding of the people who call this region home.

12. Longji Rice Terraces, Guilin - A Stairway to Heaven

Nestled in the breathtaking region of Guilin, the Longji Rice Terraces  (龙脊梯田) are a natural wonder that enthralls visitors with their stunning beauty and cultural significance. Also known as the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces , these iconic terraces are a testament to human ingenuity and harmonious coexistence with nature.

Located approximately 80 kilometers from Guilin , the Longji Rice Terraces can be reached by a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside. The journey itself is an enchanting experience, with verdant mountains, cascading waterfalls, and traditional villages dotting the landscape. It is a good idea to spend 1 or 2 days there.

Best Time to Visit:  Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather and stunning scenery, with the spring season showcasing vibrant green rice paddies and the autumn season revealing golden hues.

Once at the Longji Rice Terraces, there are several top things to do. Embark on a memorable hike through the terraced fields, marveling at the intricate irrigation system that has been in place for centuries. Visit the ethnic minority villages of Zhuang and Yao, where you can immerse yourself in their vibrant cultures, sample traditional cuisine, and witness age-old customs.

5 Days Guilin Yangshuo Longji Tour with Hiking in Longji Rice Terraces

13. Hongcun Ancient Village, Huangshan - UNESCO World Heritage in Huangshan

Journey into the picturesque Hongcun Ancient Village  (宏村), nestled amidst the majestic scenery of the Huangshan Mountains. Hongcun Ancient Village offers a captivating glimpse into the past, capturing the essence of traditional Chinese architecture and rural life . This UNESCO World Heritage Site , boasting well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, enchanting canals, and a tranquil atmosphere, guarantees an unforgettable journey through time. Located approximately 70 kilometers from Huangshan City , it serves as an idyllic escape.

Stroll along the ancient alleyways and marvel at the unique architecture characterized by white-washed walls, black-tiled roofs, and intricately carved wooden structures. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Moon Pond , a serene reflection pool surrounded by traditional buildings. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and observe the village's daily life unfold before your eyes.

14. Victoria Peak, Hong Kong - Capture Stunning Panoramic View of HK

Ascend to the top of Victoria Peak  (维多利亚山), the highest mountain on Hong Kong Island, for panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding Victoria Harbour . Enjoy the breathtaking vistas, capture stunning photos, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic landmark.

Spectacular Views: The primary allure of Victoria Peak lies in its unparalleled views of Hong Kong's sprawling cityscape. Witnessing the mesmerizing skyline, sparkling harbor, and surrounding mountains from the peak's vantage point is an absolute feast for the eyes.

Iconic Peak Tram: Embark on a memorable journey to the summit of Victoria Peak by riding the historic Peak Tram. This charming funicular railway, which has been in operation since 1888, offers a scenic and nostalgic experience as it ascends steep slopes, providing stunning views along the way.

Sky Terrace 428: Take in the breathtaking vistas from the Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewing platform in Hong Kong . Located atop the Peak Tower, this observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view and is a prime spot for capturing stunning photographs.

One Day Hong Kong Tour: Classic Exploration to Meet Different Hong Kong Island

2 Days in Hong Kong: Classic Tour of Hong Kong Island & Lantau Island

15. Mount Kailash, Tibet - Discover Majestic Beauty of Sacred Mountain

Mount Kailash  (冈仁波齐), also known as Kang Rinpoche in Tibetan, holds great significance for various religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and Bon. Mount Kailash is located in the far west of Tibet , approximately 1,600 kilometers from Lhasa , the capital city. The journey from Lhasa to Mount Kailash takes around 2-3 days by road, passing through spectacular landscapes and remote Tibetan villages.

Top Things to Do at Mount Kailash:

(1) Kora Trek: Undertake the sacred Kora trek , which involves walking around Mount Kailash. This spiritual journey typically takes three days and offers breathtaking views of the mountain, pristine lakes, and high-altitude landscapes. It is a deeply transformative experience for many pilgrims and travelers alike.

(2) Visit Lake Mansarovar: Located near Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Considered sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism, it is believed to cleanse one's sins and offer spiritual rejuvenation. Take the opportunity to visit and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this holy lake.

(3) Explore the Surrounding Monasteries: Discover the ancient monasteries and hermitages that surround Mount Kailash. Chiu Monastery, Dirapuk Monastery, and Zuthulphuk Monastery are among the notable sites where you can witness the rich spiritual traditions of Tibet.

16 Days Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour with Lhasa Shigatse & EBC

13 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour via Gyirong with EBC & Mount Kailash Trek

16. Xiapu Mudflat, Fujian A Photographer's Paradise in Fujian

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Fujian Province , China, lies the captivating Xiapu Mudflat  (霞浦滩涂). This breathtaking natural landscape, encompassing 40 square kilometers and boasting over 400 kilometers of coastline, has earned its reputation as one of the most stunning mudflats in the country, and a true photographer's paradise.

The most magical moments at Xiapu Mudflat occur during sunrise and sunset . As the sun peeks over the horizon, bathing the landscape in a warm glow, the mudflats come alive with a vibrant palette of colors. The reflections of the sky on the water create a mesmerizing mirrored effect, while the silhouettes of the fishing boats add a touch of human presence to the scene.

The best time to visit Xiapu Mudflat is between April and October , when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time, you can experience the full range of the tides and witness the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. To capture the most dramatic images, be sure to plan your trip around the lunar calendar, as the tides are highest during the full and new moon phases.

4 Days Xiapu Mudflat Photo Tour for China’s Most Beautiful Mudflat

7 Days Fujian Tour to Xiamen, Hakka Tulou & Xiapu Mudflat with Photography Experience

17. Three Gorges, Yangtze River - Take 5-star Cruise along the Longest River in China

The Yangtze River  (长江), the longest river in Asia, carves a dramatic path through the heart of China, showcasing some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. One of its most awe-inspiring sections is undoubtedly the Three Gorges : Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge.

The most immersive way to experience the wonders of the Three Gorges is undoubtedly on a 5-star Yangtze River cruise . Various cruise options are available, ranging from luxurious ships with all the amenities to smaller, more intimate boats. You can choose from the 4-day downstream cruise  from Chongqing to Yichang or 5-day upstream cruise  from Yichang to Chongqing. As you sail along the river, you can enjoy breathtaking views from the deck, participate in onboard activities, and stop at various points of interest along the way. Your cruise will likely include excursions to historical sites, visits to local villages, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.

18. Daocheng Yading, Sichuan  "Last Shangri-La"

Daocheng Yading  (稻城亚丁), often referred to as the 'Last Shangri-La' or the 'Fairyland on Earth,' is located in the southwest of Sichuan Province . This pristine natural paradise offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant Tibetan culture, and unparalleled tranquility. Daocheng Yading is a treasure trove of natural wonders, encompassing snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, lush valleys, and vibrant meadows. As you explore this captivating landscape, you'll be in awe of the towering peaks, including the iconic Chenrezig Mountain, resembling a reclining Buddha, and the majestic Xiannairi Mountain, with its awe-inspiring pyramid-like shape.

The best time to visit Daocheng Yading is from May to October  when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. However, be aware that the region experiences high altitude, so it's important to acclimatize properly before embarking on strenuous activities.

To get to Daocheng Yading, you can fly to Chengdu , the capital of Sichuan Province, and then take a bus or private car to the region. Alternatively, you can take a direct flight to Daocheng Yading Airport , located near the town. You are recommended to go with Asia Odyssey Travel with private service to explore Daocheng Yading.

19. Mount Siguniang, Sichuan - "Oriental Alps" of Sichuan

Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Qionglai Mountains in Sichuan Province , lies Mount Siguniang  (四姑娘山), also known as the 'Four Girls Mountain.' This breathtaking natural wonder, with its towering summits, pristine valleys, and diverse flora and fauna, offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. The four peaks - Yaomei, Erfeng, Sanfeng, and Dafeng - resemble four graceful women, standing tall against the backdrop of the azure sky, creating a truly captivating spectacle. While it is difficult to climb the Four Girls Mountains, it is recommended to hike through its three valleys  - Shuangqiao Valley, Changping Valley, and Haizi Valley - to enjoy the mountain views. Chengdu  serves as the gateway to Mount Siguniang, with just a 4-5 hour drive to reach the mountain area.

3 Days Amazing Mount Siguniang Hiking Tour from Chengdu

5 Days Best Chengdu & Mount Siguniang Leisure Hiking Tour

20. West Lake, Hangzhou - A Journey Through Hangzhou's Heart and Soul

West Lake  (西湖), nestled in the heart of Hangzhou , Zhejiang , is an iconic natural landmark that has captivated hearts and inspired artists for centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not just a picturesque lake, but a symbol of cultural heritage and breathtaking beauty.

West Lake is not just a visual feast; it's a playground for relaxation and recreation. Cruise across the lake on a traditional boat, enjoying the gentle breeze and the tranquil scenery. Hike the scenic trails surrounding the lake, breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the breathtaking views.

1 Day Paradise Hangzhou Cultural Tour from Shanghai by High Speed Train

5 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Tour: Experience Heavenly Charm by Bullet Train

21. Classical Gardens of Suzhou, Jiangsu

With a history spanning over 2,500 years, the Classical Gardens of Suzhou  (苏州园林) are a testament to the deep reverence for nature and the seamless integration of it into living spaces by the Chinese people. These gardens were not merely decorative spaces; they were intended to be microcosms of the natural world, offering havens for contemplation, relaxation, and artistic expression.

Step into a world of serenity and refinement at the Classical Gardens of Suzhou , a UNESCO World Heritage site . Explore  the Humble Administrator's Garden, Lingering Garden, Net Master's Garden, Canglang Pavilion, Lion Grove Garden, Garden of Cultivation , and others in Suzhou . Stroll through these meticulously designed gardens, adorned with pavilions, bridges, ponds, and rock formations, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of traditional Chinese landscaping.

Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by High Speed Train

22. Fujian Tulou - Earthen Wonders in Fujian Province

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Fujian Province , lies a unique and captivating collection of earthen structures known as the Fujian Tulou  (福建土楼). These remarkable buildings, constructed between the 12th and 20th centuries, stand as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Hakka people who built them. Recognized for their exceptional cultural and historical significance, the Fujian Tulou were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site  in 2008. These breathtaking structures are not simply houses; they are living museums, offering a glimpse into the lives and customs of the Hakka people, who migrated to the region centuries ago in search of refuge from conflict and persecution.

The Fujian Tulou are mainly located in Yongding and Nanjing counties . To reach the Fujian Tulou, you can fly into Xiamen, the nearest major city, and then take a bus or train to the Tulou-rich areas such as Yongding or Nanjing counties. Learn about How to Get to Fujian Tulou from Xiamen >>

1 Day Nanjing Tulou Tour: From Xiamen to the Hometown of Mulan - Fujian Tulou

23. Echoing Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake, Dunhuang - A Desert Dream

Nestled in the heart of the Gobi Desert, just outside the ancient Silk Road oasis town of Dunhuang , lies a breathtaking natural wonder known as Echoing Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake  (鸣沙山和月牙泉). This captivating landscape, a mesmerizing blend of towering sand dunes and a serene crescent-shaped lake, is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Top Things to Do at Echoing Sand Mountain and In Dunhuang:

• Camel Rides:Embark on a thrilling camel ride across the sand dunes, experiencing the traditional mode of transportation used by Silk Road traders for centuries.
• Sandboarding:Feel the adrenaline rush as you sandboard down the steep slopes of the dunes.
• Mogao Caves:Visit the nearby Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and marvel at the ancient Buddhist art and sculptures.
• Dunhuang Night Market:Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Dunhuang Night Market, indulging in local delicacies and browsing through an array of souvenirs.

24. Kaiping Diaolou, Guangdong - A Fusion of Styles

Nestled amidst the verdant countryside of Guangdong Province in China lies a unique architectural marvel: the Kaiping Diaolou  (开平碉楼). These multi-storied fortified towers, standing as proud sentinels against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush rice paddies, offer a glimpse into the fascinating history and cultural heritage of the region. You can transfer to Kaiping Diaolou from Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong.

Top Things to Do at Kaiping Diaolou:

• Explore the various diaolou clusters, each with its own unique architectural features.
• Visit the Zili Village, home to the largest and most concentrated collection of diaolou.
• Learn about the history and cultural significance of the diaolou at the Kaiping Museum.

3 Days Guangzhou Kaiping Diaolou & Foshan Tour with Lingnan Culture

6 Days Guangdong Tour to Guangzhou, Foshan, Kaiping Diaolou & Shenzhen

25. Huangguoshu Waterfall, Guizhou - Unveiling the Majestic Power of Nature

Huangguoshu Waterfall  (黄果树瀑布), nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Guizhou province, stands as a testament to nature's awe-inspiring grandeur. With its cascading waters plunging over 77 meters and spanning a width of 101 meters, Huangguoshu is not only one of the largest waterfalls in Asia but also a captivating destination for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Distance from Guiyang:  Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou province, is the nearest major city to Huangguoshu Waterfall, located approximately 128 kilometers away.

Top Things to Do at Huangguoshu Waterfall

• Witness the awe-inspiring power of the main waterfall from the Rain Shower Pavilion.
• Capture panoramic views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape from the Flower Shower Platform.
• Embark on a hike through the lush forests of the park, exploring hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
• Take a boat ride on the Baishui River, enjoying the tranquil waters and serene surroundings.
• Visit the Huangguoshu Waterfalls Museum to delve into the history and cultural significance of the waterfall.

26. Yalong Bay, Sanya - Paradise Found in Hainan

Nestled on the southernmost tip of China's Hainan Island lies a haven of pristine beauty and luxurious comfort: Yalong Bay  (亚龙湾). This horseshoe-shaped bay, often referred to as the "Hawaii of the East", boasts breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush tropical landscapes, and world-class resorts, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and a touch of paradise.

Yalong Bay boasts a stunning 7.5-kilometer stretch of pristine beach , known for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. Whether you're seeking sunbathing bliss, indulging in water sports like snorkeling and diving, or simply strolling along the shore, Yalong Bay offers the perfect setting for beachside relaxation.

27. China Snow Town, Heilongjiang - A Winter Wonderland for Snow Fun

Deep in the heart of Heilongjiang Province, lies a winter wonderland known as China Snow Town  (中国雪乡, also known as Shuangfeng Forest Farm or Xuexiang). This charming village, nestled amidst snow-capped mountains and pristine forests, transforms into a magical landscape during the winter months, attracting visitors from all over the world with its breathtaking scenery and unique cultural experiences.

From December to March , China Snow Town is blanketed in a thick layer of snow, turning houses, trees, and even the landscape into whimsical sculptures. The air is crisp and invigorating, the silence broken only by the crackling of snow underfoot and the occasional burst of laughter from children playing in the streets.

To get to China Snow Town, you can fly into Harbin Taiping International Airport  and then take a train or bus to Mudanjiang City. From Mudanjiang, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the village. You are recommended to take private service with Asia Odyssey Travel.

28. Shennongjia, Hubei - Explore Wild Heart of China

Nestled in the northwestern corner of Hubei Province, lies Shennongjia  (神农架). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a land of breathtaking beauty and captivating mystery. Renowned for its pristine forests, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Shennongjia offers an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to escape the ordinary and immerse themselves in nature's splendor.

Shennongjia is home to some of the largest and most well-preserved primary forests in central China . These ancient woodlands, shrouded in mist and teeming with life, offer a glimpse into a world untouched by time. Hike through towering redwoods, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and breathe in the fresh, clean air that fills your lungs and invigorates your soul. To get to Shennongjia, you can fly into Wudangshan Airport or Yichang Sanxia Airport , which are located nearby. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to your destination within Shennongjia.

29. Fenghuang Ancient Town - Enchanting Town in Hunan

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of Hunan Province, lies the captivating town of Fenghuang  (凤凰古城), also known as Phoenix Ancient Town. This enchanting destination, with its rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a glimpse into the heart of traditional China. Fenghuang boasts a history spanning over 1,300 years, reflected in its well-preserved ancient buildings and narrow, winding streets. Stroll along the Tuojiang River, admiring the colorful wooden houses adorned with intricate carvings and red lanterns, and feel transported back in time.

To get to Fenghuang, you can fly into Changsha Huanghua International Airport  or Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport  and then take a train or bus to the town.

5 Days Panorama Zhangjiajie Tour with Fenghuang Ancient Town

30. Singing Sand Bay, Inner Mongolia - A Symphony of Sand and Sound

Deep in the heart of Inner Mongolia, nestled within the vast Gobi Desert, lies a natural phenomenon unlike any other: Singing Sand Bay  (响沙湾). This mesmerizing landscape, where sand dunes rise like towering waves and the very earth sings underfoot, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and a touch of sonic wonder.

To get to Singing Sand Bay, you can fly into Baotou Airport, which has connections to major cities in China. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from nearby cities like Ordos or Hohhot.

31. Wuyuan, Jiangxi A Canvas of Scenic Splendor

Situated within the heart of Jiangxi Province, lies the captivating landscape of Wuyuan  (婺源), a region renowned for its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and historical charm. This hidden gem, often referred to as the "Most Beautiful Countryside in China,"  promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture amidst breathtaking natural landscapes.

Wuyuan's beauty is a result of its diverse landscapes, encompassing rolling hills, lush valleys, and captivating rivers. Wander through the picturesque villages, adorned with traditional Hui-style architecture, featuring whitewashed walls, black-tiled roofs, and intricate carvings. Immerse yourself in the vibrant green rice paddies that stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of colors.

32. Changbai Mountain & Heaven Lake - The Roof of Northeast China

Towering over the Jilin Province in Northeast China lies the majestic Changbai Mountain  (长白山), a mesmerizing volcanic landscape cloaked in mystery and awe. This sacred peak, shared by both China and North Korea, offers a unique blend of natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for any adventurous traveler.

The undisputed highlight of Changbai Mountain is the breathtaking Heaven Lake  (天池), a crater lake nestled at the peak's summit. This stunning glacial lake, considered the deepest in China and the highest volcanic lake in the world, is a sight to behold. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a picture-perfect panorama.

To reach Changbai Mountain, you can fly into Changbaishan Airport, located nearby. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from major cities in Jilin Province like Changchun and Jilin City.

33. Qinghai Lake - Embrace the Azure Jewel in Qinghai

In the heart of the Tibetan Plateau, nestled amidst towering mountains and vast grasslands, lies Qinghai Lake  (青海湖), China's largest and highest inland lake. This majestic body of water, often referred to as "the blue sea" , is a mesmerizing spectacle of natural beauty and a haven for wildlife and cultural heritage.

To reach Qinghai Lake, you can fly into Xining Caojiabao International Airport, which provides connections to major cities in China. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from major cities like Lanzhou and Chengdu.

13 Days Shanghai & Xining Tibet Train Tour with Qinghai Lake

8 Days Tibet Train Tour from Beijing | Beijing Xining Lhasa

34. Xian Ancient City Wall - A Walk through Time in Xian

Standing tall amidst the modern cityscape of Xian , the Xian Ancient City Wall  (西安古城墙) whispers tales of a bygone era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site , one of the most complete and best-preserved ancient city walls in China , offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Ming Dynasty.

35. Hukou Waterfall, Shanxi - Witness the Power of Nature

Hukou Waterfall  (壶口瀑布), nestled amidst the majestic Yellow River Valley in Shanxi Province, China, is a spectacle that leaves every visitor awestruck. This powerful cascade, known as the "Flask Mouth Waterfall"  due to its unique shape, is a testament to the raw beauty and untamed energy of nature. To reach Hukou Waterfall, you can fly into Taiyuan Wusu International Airport or Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, which are located nearby. From there, you can take a train or bus to Hukou Town.

36. Yungang Grottoes, Shanxi A Gallery of Divine Sculptures

Nestled amidst the sun-baked cliffs of the Wuzhou Mountain, just outside Datong City in China's Shanxi Province, lies a treasure trove of ancient art and history - the Yungang Grottoes  (云冈石窟). This UNESCO World Heritage Site , carved into the sandstone cliffs over 1,500 years ago, houses over 250 caves filled with a dazzling array of Buddhist sculptures, murals, and inscriptions.

Stepping into the Yungang Grottoes is like stepping back in time. The cool air of the caves, the soft glow of the lanterns, and the sheer scale of the sculptures create an atmosphere of awe and reverence. Each cave tells a story, depicting scenes from the life of Buddha, Buddhist deities and bodhisattvas, and intricate geometric patterns and floral motifs.

37. Nalati Grassland, Xinjiang Vastness of the Heavenly Mountains

Nestled amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains in Xinjiang, China, lies a breathtaking haven - the Nalati Grassland  (那拉提草原). This subalpine meadow, known as the "Pearl of the Northern Xinjiang" and one of the four largest grasslands in the world, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, nomadic culture, and vibrant festivals, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler seeking an escape to a truly idyllic setting.

To reach Nalati Grassland, you can fly into Urumqi Diwopu International Airport and then take a taxi or bus to the site. Alternatively, you can take a train from nearby cities like Yining or Kuitun.

38. Dali Three Pagodas, Yunnan The Symbol of Dali

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Dali, Yunnan Province, China, stands a trio of architectural wonders known as the Three Pagodas. Rising majestically from the heart of the Chongsheng Temple grounds, these ancient structures have been captivating visitors for centuries, serving as silent witnesses to the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

39. Pudacuo National Park, Yunnan - Unveil Shangri-La’s Hidden Gem

Nestled amidst the majestic mountains and valleys of Shangri-La, Yunnan Province, lies Pudacuo National Park, a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. This expansive park, encompassing 1,300 square kilometers of breathtaking natural beauty, offers a unique blend of pristine lakes, lush forests, diverse wildlife, and awe-inspiring landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast.

40. Lugu Lake, Sichuan & Yunnan - Mystical Landscape & Mosuo Culture

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Yunnan-Sichuan border, lies Lugu Lake, a jewel-toned oasis reflecting the azure sky. This serene alpine lake, shared by the provinces of Yunnan and Sichuan , enchants visitors with its spectacular scenery, unique Mosuo culture, and captivating legends, making it a truly unforgettable destination.

To reach Lugu Lake, you can fly into Lijiang Airport or Kunming Changshui International Airport, and then take a bus or taxi to the lake. Alternatively, you can take a train from major cities like Chengdu and Kunming.

How to Plan China Tours with Most Beautiful Places in China?

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9 Days For Culture Explorer: Let's visit traditional Suzhou Gardens and the Metroplis of Shanghai which are the Top Places located in same area of China - 9 Days Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou Huangshan Tour >>

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14 Days @ Beijing, Xi'an, SHanghai, Guilin, Hong kong: Wonderful China Tour with Golden Triangle Cities & More - 14 Days China Group Tour >>

14 Days @ Tibet, Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an & Mount Everest: How could you miss Tibet(Xizang) and Mount Everest when visiting China? - 14 Days China Group Tour >>

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 of the Best Historic Sites in China

Discover china's rich history at these 10 sites across the country, from the ancient terracotta army to the birthplace of mao zedong..

Kyle Hoekstra

24 nov 2020, @kylehoekstra.

China has witnessed several millennia of fascinating, turbulent history, from the imperial era through to the days of the Communist Party. And the relics of these eras have been preserved and restored at various sites, palaces and museums across the country.

For those keen to learn more about dynastic China, take a trip to the Terracotta Army in Xian or the Ming Tombs near Beijing. The Museum of the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, on the other hand, is an excellent opportunity to learn about China’s modern history.

Here are 10 unmissable historic sites to visit in China.

1. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is an iconic structure and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Constituted from several different defensive walls, it was during the reign of the first Emperor Qin Shi Huang in 221 BC that the Great Wall of China was amalgamated into the single structure we know today.

At its peak, the Great Wall of China stretched for approximately 5,500 miles from Shanhaiguan in east China to Lop Nur in the west. Today, the Great Wall is the country’s most famous tourist attraction.

2. Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army, part of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, is one of the world’s most famous, intriguing and visually arresting ancient sites, dating back to the 3rd century BC.

A chance find in Xian in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a collection of around 7,000 life sized clay sculptures of soldiers, infantry, carts and horses in battle formation, each created with its own individual features.

3. The Forbidden City - Beijing

The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace or the Palace Museum, is a fifteenth century palace complex in Beijing.

Sprawled over a staggering 720,000 square meters and very well-preserved, The Forbidden City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China and is on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

4. Ming Tombs

The Ming Tombs were established by the third Ming emperor, Yongle, in the fifteenth century and house the mausoleums of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty.

Three of the Ming Tombs are open to the public. Emperor Yongle’s tomb, known as Chang Ling, is perhaps the most remarkable of the three, with its ornate interiors and impressive architecture. However, it is the Ding Ling tomb which is the only one to have been excavated and the only Ming Tomb in which visitors can enter the underground vault.

5. First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party

The Museum of the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party is the site where Mao Ze Dong and a further eleven members of various communist groups from around China met for the first time as the National Communist Party.

The meeting took place on 23 July 1921 and marked the birth of the party. Today, the Museum of the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party allows visitors to see the meeting place, with a reconstruction of the event.

6. Great Wall of China - Mutianyu

The Mùtiányù section of the Great Wall of China dates back to the Qin Dynasty, although it was renovated during the Ming era.

The added distance to Mùtiányù from Beijing makes it a less crowded experience than Bādálǐng. There is a cable car taking visitors onto the wall, or visitors can take the stairs.

7. Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven in Tiantan Park in Beijing was originally built by Ming Dynasty Emperor Yongle in 1420 as a place of worship for Chinese emperors. However, it was only during the reign of the Jiajing Emperor that the site was named The Temple of Heaven as well as being extended and renovated.

Constructed in accordance with Chinese religious principles, The Temple of Heaven is characterised by square buildings with round roofs, the square aspects representing the earth and the circular ones representing heaven. The Temple of Heaven represents is the oldest holy temple in Beijing.

8. Great Wall of China - Huanghuacheng

The Huánghuā section of the Great Wall of China is far less visited than its counterparts in Mùtiányù and Bādálǐng. The Huánghuā section was built under the remit of Lord Cai during the Ming Dynasty. He went to extraordinary lengths to build each part of this section. Unfortunately for Cai, the Ministry of War decried it as an extravagance and he was duly beheaded.

This is not an officially open part of the Great Wall and the Chinese government have on occasion prevented people from going there, even issuing fines for visiting it.

9. Beihai Park

Beihai Park is an imperial garden and palace in Beijing, China established during the Liao Dynasty in the first century AD. Beihai Park has undergone significant changes and renovations, with each imperial dynasty making its mark on the gardens.

Spanning more than 69 hectares, Beihai Park contains numerous historical structures and was considered at one time to be the “nucleus” of Beijing. The most famous aspects of Beihai Park are Qionghua Island with its iconic white 17th century dagoba, Tuancheng Island, and the north bank containing the Five-Dragon Pavilions.

10. Jingshan Park

Jingshan Park in Beijing began as an imperial garden during the Ming dynasty. Jingshan Park has often been called “Coal Hill” due to the fact that it is an artificial mound made up of soil extracted during construction of the Forbidden Palace moat.

Visitors to Jingshan Park can see numerous historic structures including the holy Hope Tower or “xiwanglou”, the coffins of the members of the Qing Dynasty at the Visiting Virtue Hall or “Guandedian”, and the site where the final emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Chongzhen, committed suicide.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Best Cities to Visit in China

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The most populous nation in the world, China´s vast territory encompasses diverse peoples and places; all with their own unique cultures, customs and ways of life. As such, its cities beautifully highlight this rich cultural diversity and one could spend a lifetime exploring all the sights they have to offer.

With lovely temples, palaces and gardens on display, the best cities in China have a plethora of attractions for you to delight in and that´s without even mentioning two of its greatest tourist draws – the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army!

15. Chengde

With pagodas, palaces, lakes and more, this former summer home of the early emperors of the Qing Dynasty is still a lovely place to spend some time. Of particular interest is the amazing Eight Outer Temples complex which is spectacular and a must-see in Chengde. The Mountain Resort here is simply divine and the incredible architecture on show is mesmerising and the dreamy well-manicured gardens only add to the beauty of the scene.

A popular place to visit, the city of Dali´s Old Town is lovely to wander around and, framed by the beautiful Cangshan Mountains the main landmarks are the lovely city gates that mark each end of it.

With splendid scenery and pristine nature surrounding Dali, many people take to the mountains to hike along their winding paths and trails, reveling in the peaceful ambiance and fresh air. A great walk to do is wonderfully called the Cloud Traveller´s Path and takes you up to 2500 metres high.

13. Kashgar

Situated on the old Silk Road, Kashgar is remarkably closer to Damascus than it is to Beijing! Located in the most western part of China, visitors to the city need to cross a vast desert to get here and its remote setting is in part what makes it so interesting to visit. Kashgar remains an important trading post to this very day and consequently it has a fascinating mix of cultures and peoples who have moved here over the centuries.

The Old Town with its Uyghur architecture and lively bazaars are particularly great to visit and, with so many different cuisines available; it´s time to treat your stomach! Predominantly Muslim, the lovely Id Kah Mosque is a visible reminder of an identity that is increasingly under threat as more and more Han Chinese migrate to the city.

Before leaving, make sure to visit the Sunday market – here huge numbers of people from around Central Asia come to trade in the city and consequently there is a lively and bustling atmosphere about the place.

12. Nanjing

With its laidback vibe, clean streets and leafy avenues, Nanjing is possibly better to live in than to visit and many visitors simply pass through on their way between Beijing and Shanghai. Situated on the famous Yangtze River, Nanjing was once the capital of China and, although it is often overlooked; there are a number of nice places to stop by.

A great way to see many of its sights in one go is to take to the Qin Huai River and float past the mesmerising Confucius Temple and the huge Gate of China among others. With loads of tombs and mausoleums to visit in Nanjing and the surrounding area, many visitors spend most of their time exploring these impressive sites.

Famed for the incredible Ice Festival that takes places in the city each year, Harbin´s location in the far north of China means that it can get very cold. Due to its proximity to Russia, there is a lot of Russian influence in terms of culture and architecture and this makes Harbin a unique place to visit in China with the St. Sophia Cathedral being a particular highlight.

Lasting over two months from December to February, you definitely want to make your trip here during the Ice Festival as it is a spectacular extravaganza with everything carved out of ice and lights illuminating them beautifully.

Located in eastern China , Suzhou´s close proximity to Shanghai means that it is a popular day trip destination. Famed for its lovely gardens and traditional buildings that hug the waterside of the canals, locals and foreigners alike flock to Suzhou as it is the most famous water town in China. Its picturesque canals are delightful to wander along as small footbridges cross the water and paper lanterns hang from the buildings.

Although it has modernised drastically in recent decades, the city has retained pockets of its charming features that harken back to days gone by. The Humble Administrator’s Garden is a particularly peaceful place to stop by. At one time the capital of the Wu Kingdom, Suzhou was once one of the largest cities in the world. Since the days of the Silk Road, the city has attracted traders and craftsmen to its streets due to its fabled silk production and location in the Yangtze River Delta.

Located in the south of the country, ´The City of Eternal Spring´ as it is known is a great place from which to set off and explore the delights of the beautiful Yunnan Province. In Kunming itself the spectacular Yuantong Temple dates back to the eight century and is definitely worth a visit for the impressive stone carvings that can be found scattered around its premises. Tanhua Temple is becoming increasingly popular due to the lovely scenery it offers up.

8. Hangzhou

Very popular with tourists, Hangzhou is known for its stunning natural beauty with the idyllic West Lake being the very best of what is on offer with the Broken Bridge being the romantic highlight. Taking a boat trip on its tranquil waters is heavenly and you can stop off at various islands which each have their own individual features.

A number of temples and pagodas are scattered around the area and, with the water glimmering behind them; there are a plethora of beautiful views to be found. One of the most famous sites in the country, Lingyin Temple is a must-see in this breathtaking city.

The otherworldly scenery that is found in Giulin and its surroundings makes this an awe-inspiring place to visit. Relaxing on a boat drifting down the Li River is a magical experience as the spectacular karst features of the landscape pass by on either side of you. Shrouded in mist, they look mysterious and if you venture into the heart of breathtaking Yangshuo , you will find caves and grottoes hidden amidst the undergrowth. An incredibly beautiful city, many visitors to Guilin head to the Moon and Sun Pagoda for the lovely view it offers over the area.

6. Guangzhou

Dating back over two thousand years, Guangzhou´s location on the Maritime Silk Road means that it has ancient historical sites and, due to the diverse influences of traders on the city; an eclectic range of architectural styles. As the third largest city in China, Guangzhou is a hectic and chaotic place to visit and its vast size can threaten to be overwhelming.

Hidden amongst the endless concrete jungle however are some of the oldest temples in the country such as the Liurong Temple as well as the lovely 627 AD Huaisheng Mosque. A melting pot of cultures, Guangzhou is a frenetic yet interesting place to catch a glimpse into cosmopolitan China. Taking a boat trip on the river at night past the sparkling skyscrapers will live long in the memory and, with the most restaurants per capita; your stomach will also savour your trip to Guangzhou!

The capital of Tibet, Lhasa is a mesmerising city to visit and it is situated in a beautiful and mountainous environment in the Himalayas. The Potala Palace is the primary site of interest and the incredible building looks absolutely amazing. Jokhang Palace is also memorable to visit and it is home to Tibet´s most prized possession – an ancient and delightful statue of the Buddha. Very different from the rest of China; head here for an insight into the rich Tibetan culture.

4. Xi’an

With a plethora of historical sites littered around the city, it certainly is tough to see everything in Xi´an . The Army of Terracotta Warriors and Horses however is an absolute must and they really are spellbinding to behold. In addition to this you should also look to visit the city´s ancient city walls which protected Xi´an and enabled it to turn into the ruling seat of the Ming Dynasty. In fact, seventy-three emperors ended up ruling from here for over a thousand years and Xi´an was the capital of thirteen dynasties in total.

What we now know as Chinese civilization spread forth from this influential city and although rampant modernization has changed the face of Xi´an you can still find numerous sites that testify to its former glory.

3. Shanghai

As the largest city in China, Shanghai is a thriving place with a wealth of things to see and do. Lying on the banks of Huangpu River, the towering skyscrapers make for a spectacular sight and somewhat surprisingly; there are loads of Art Deco buildings to be found among them. Most tourists head straight to the Bund which is located alongside the riverbank and has an eclectic mix of colonial-era buildings.

See also: Where to Stay in Shanghai

Often called ´the museum of buildings´, the Bund is a relic to the foreign imperial powers that once ruled the city. Due to Shanghai´s rapid growth over the last century, the city is an eclectic mix of different architectural styles and as a commercial center it is great for shopping in. For a glimpse of old Shanghai, head to the Old Town and the lovely walled Yuyuan Gardens.

2. Hong Kong

This city of skyscrapers lies on Victoria Bay and behind it, a beautiful backdrop of forest-coated mountains only adds to the magnificence of the scenery. The nearby Victoria Peak is a great vantage point from which to behold the glistening Hong Kong in all its glory. Another fantastic way to take in the panorama is to take to the water and look up at the high-rises stretching towards the heavens before you.

See also: Where to Stay in Hong Kong

Cosmopolitan Hong Kong is a mishmash of cultures and peoples and that is in part what makes it so worth visiting. That and the lively markets – a shopper’s paradise! Nearby Lantau Island is a great destination for nature lovers looking to get out of the city.

With over twenty million people residing in the nation’s capital, Beijing is a bustling and expansive city with a plethora of attractions for visitors to delight in. As a first stop, many head to the huge Tiananmen Square which is bordered by so many fine buildings such as the Forbidden City which once housed the imperial court. With over a hundred museums dotted about the city as well as a number of palaces, temples and archaeological sites interspersed among the encroaching modern buildings; there certainly is a lot to see.

Make sure to take to the streets and try as much delicious food as possible! From Beijing, it is just under an hour to visit some of the nicest parts of the Great Wall of China. Twisting and weaving its way over the hills and mountains of the countryside; it really is an incredible feat of engineering.

Map of cities in China

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Discover the Wonders: Top Things to Do in China Beyond the Great Wall

C hina, a land of ancient wonders and modern marvels. But what if you've seen the Great Wall and tasted Peking duck? What's next? Dive into the lesser-known treasures of this vast nation and discover why over 55.7 million tourists flocked here in 2018.

TL;DR: China's Hidden Gems

• China is the third most visited country globally, with a rich tapestry of attractions beyond the famous Great Wall.
• From ancient relics in Xi'an to the bustling streets of Shanghai, there's something for every traveler .
• Discover secret spots and insider tips from experienced travelers like Deborah Green.

Why China Should Be on Every Traveler's Bucket List

According to the World Tourism Organization, China ranks third in global tourist visits. But why? Let's delve deeper.

The Great Wall: More Than Just Bricks and Mortar

Yes, the Great Wall is iconic. Stretching over 13,000 miles and with a history spanning 2,300 years, it's a testament to China's enduring spirit. But as travel writer Chris Taylor puts it, "China has a lot more to offer than just the Great Wall or the Forbidden City. The country is vast and diverse , from the ancient relics of Xi'an to the modern metropolis of Shanghai, from the desert landscapes of Xinjiang to the stunning karst mountains of Guilin."

Unearth the Secrets of Xi'an

Speaking of Xi'an, did you know it's home to the Terracotta Army? Thousands of life-sized statues, each with a unique face, guarding the tomb of China's first emperor. A sight that leaves even the most seasoned travelers in awe.

Shanghai: Where Tradition Meets Modernity

From the historic Bund to the futuristic skyline of Pudong, Shanghai is a city of contrasts. Explore hidden alleyways, savor local delicacies , or dance the night away in a rooftop bar. The choice is yours!

Experience the Magic of Guilin

Imagine cruising down a river, surrounded by towering limestone peaks, their reflections shimmering in the water. That's Guilin for you . A place where nature and culture intertwine, offering experiences that linger long after the trip ends.

Insider Tips from Deborah Green

When in China, don't just stick to the tourist trail. Seek out local experiences. Join a tea ceremony, try your hand at calligraphy, or hike off the beaten path in Zhangjiajie. And always , always have some local street food. The flavors will blow your mind!

Dive Deeper: China's Cultural and Natural Wonders

China's vastness isn't just geographical; it's cultural, historical, and natural. Beyond the bustling cities and iconic landmarks, there lies a treasure trove of experiences that often escape the typical tourist's radar. Here's a deeper dive into some of these wonders.

Yunnan's Enchanting Beauty

Located in the southwestern part of China, Yunnan is a province that boasts a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with its unique traditions and festivals. The ancient town of Dali, with its traditional Bai architecture and serene Erhai Lake, offers a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. Not to mention the breathtaking Yuanyang Rice Terraces, where layers upon layers of cascading fields paint a picture of nature's artistry.

Hangzhou's West Lake

Described by Marco Polo as "the City of Heaven," Hangzhou's West Lake is a testament to that claim. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, this freshwater lake is dotted with pagodas, bridges, and islands. A boat ride here , especially during sunset, is nothing short of poetic. The reflections of the ancient structures on the shimmering waters tell tales of bygone eras.

The Silk Road Adventure

The ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes that connected the East and West, has left behind a legacy that travelers can still experience today. Cities like Dunhuang offer glimpses into this past with its Mogao Caves, a complex of 492 grottoes adorned with Buddhist art. And then there's the echoing sand mountain, where the dunes sing as the winds pass.

Deborah Green's Pro Tip

If you're looking to truly immerse yourself in China's diverse tapestry, consider attending a local festival. Whether it's the Water-Splashing Festival in Yunnan or the Lantern Festival celebrated nationwide, these events offer a firsthand experience of China's rich cultural heritage. And remember, while landmarks are fascinating, sometimes the real magic lies in the unexpected detours and the stories of the people you meet along the way.

China is more than just its popular landmarks. It's a land of stories, of people, and of experiences waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and embark on a journey like no other. See you in China!

What are some lesser-known attractions in China?

Places like the Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye, the ancient town of Lijiang, and the serene Jiuzhaigou Valley are just a few hidden gems.

Is street food safe to eat in China?

Generally, yes. Just ensure the food is freshly cooked and the stall is clean. Trust your instincts and enjoy the culinary journey!

How do I get around in China?

China boasts an extensive high-speed rail network, making it easy to travel between major cities. For shorter distances, taxis and subways are convenient options.

What's the best time to visit China?

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.

Do I need to know Mandarin to travel in China?

While it's helpful, many signs are in English, and translation apps can assist in communication. A smile and gestures go a long way!

World Tourism Organization

China Travel Guide

Interview with Chris Taylor, Travel Writer

Exploring The Wonders Of China: A Journey Into A Land Of Rich Culture And Tradition

• Last updated May 27, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Welcome to China, a land of rich culture and tradition that stretches back thousands of years. From the magnificent Great Wall to the mystical landscapes of Guilin, this vast country is filled with wonders waiting to be explored. Join us on a journey as we delve into the heart of China, uncovering its hidden treasures and immersing ourselves in its vibrant history. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the serene temples of Xi’an, prepare to be captivated by the diverse landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality that make China a truly unforgettable destination. So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime as we explore the wonders of China.

What You'll Learn

Introduction to china: a vibrant and diverse travel destination, exploring ancient history: unesco world heritage sites in china, culinary delights: experience the flavors of chinese cuisine, cultural immersion: traditional festivals and customs in china.

China, the ancient land of emperors, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, is a vibrant and diverse travel destination that will leave you mesmerized. From bustling cities to serene countryside, China offers a plethora of experiences for every type of traveler.

As you embark on your journey to China, here is a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of this captivating country.

Cities to Explore:

China is home to some of the world's most populous cities, each with its own unique character. Beijing, the capital, boasts a rich history with iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City. Shanghai, a global financial hub, enchants visitors with its futuristic skyline and vibrant nightlife. Other must-visit cities include Xi'an, with its Terracotta Army, and Chengdu, famous for its pandas.

Cultural Heritage:

China's cultural heritage is an integral part of its identity, with thousands of years of history waiting to be discovered. The Great Wall, an architectural marvel stretching over 13,000 miles, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into China's ancient defense system. The Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a jaw-dropping testament to the power of the Qin Dynasty. Delve into the intricate world of Chinese opera or explore traditional tea ceremonies to truly immerse yourself in the country's rich cultural heritage.

Natural Wonders:

China is a country of diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to picturesque lakes and stunning national parks. The Yangtze River, the longest river in Asia, provides a scenic journey through the heart of the country. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known for its towering sandstone pillars, inspired the mystical world of Pandora in the film "Avatar." Wander through the ethereal landscapes of the Jiuzhaigou Valley, with its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. China's natural wonders will leave you in awe of its beauty.

Culinary Delights:

Chinese cuisine is renowned around the world, and a trip to China offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in its diverse flavors. From Peking duck in Beijing to dim sum in Guangzhou, each region has its own culinary specialties. Street food stalls in cities like Shanghai and Chengdu offer a sensory explosion of flavors and aromas that will tantalize your taste buds. Don't forget to sample regional delicacies like Sichuan hotpot, Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), or the famous Peking duck.

Practical Tips:

When traveling to China, it is important to familiarize yourself with some practical tips to ensure a smooth journey. Make sure you have a valid visa before entering the country and carry your passport at all times. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can come in handy, especially in smaller cities where English may not be widely spoken. It is also advisable to bring a plug adapter, as the electrical outlets in China may differ from those in your home country.

China is a country that offers a world of possibilities for travelers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. Whether you explore its ancient landmarks, delve into its rich cultural heritage, or simply savor its culinary delights, China is sure to leave an indelible mark on your travel memories. Prepare to be captivated by the vibrancy and diversity that defines this remarkable travel destination.

So, pack your bags and get ready to experience China's vibrant energy, stunning landscapes, and fascinating history. Your journey awaits!

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China is a country rich in ancient history and cultural heritage. With over 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it offers a plethora of opportunities for those interested in exploring the wonders of the past. In this blog post, we will focus on some of the most significant and well-preserved sites that showcase China's ancient history.

The Great Wall of China

Undeniably one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall of China is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Spanning over 13,000 miles and constructed over centuries, this architectural marvel is a testament to China's military defense system. Hiking along the wall allows you to appreciate the stunning views and experience a piece of history up close.

The Forbidden City

Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for almost five centuries. With its opulent buildings, intricate architecture, and expansive courtyards, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur and power of the Chinese emperors. Exploring the Forbidden City will take you through the various halls, pavilions, and gardens that were once the center of political and cultural life in China.

The Terracotta Army

Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army in Xi'an is an archaeological wonder that astounds visitors from around the world. Built to protect the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the army consists of thousands of life-sized terracotta figures of soldiers, horses, and chariots. Each figure is unique, showing intricate details and craftsmanship. Visiting this site allows you to witness firsthand the ancient burial rituals and artistic abilities of the time.

The Mogao Caves

Located near the city of Dunhuang, the Mogao Caves are a complex of 492 caves containing Buddhist art spanning over a millennium. These caves are adorned with intricate murals, statues, and manuscripts, making them a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist culture. Exploring the caves will give you a profound insight into the religious beliefs and artistic achievements of ancient China.

The Summer Palace

Situated in the outskirts of Beijing, the Summer Palace served as a retreat for emperors during the hot summer months. The palace complex includes temples, pavilions, and gardens that exemplify classical Chinese garden design. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque Kunming Lake, climb the Longevity Hill, and admire the beautiful architecture and scenery. The Summer Palace offers a serene escape from the bustling city and a chance to appreciate the harmonious blend of nature and human creativity.

The Potala Palace

Located in Lhasa, Tibet, the Potala Palace is a majestic fortress-like structure that once served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Perched atop Marpo Ri Hill, it is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and an important pilgrimage site. Inside, you can explore the numerous chapels and halls adorned with religious artifacts, intricate murals, and precious treasures. The breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the spiritual atmosphere further enhance the experience.

Visiting these UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China will not only give you a glimpse into the ancient history and rich cultural heritage but also provide an opportunity to appreciate the remarkable architectural achievements and artistic traditions of this great civilization. The diversity and uniqueness of each site make for a truly enriching and memorable travel experience. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore China's ancient wonders!

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China, with its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, offers a culinary experience like no other. Traveling to China provides food lovers with endless opportunities to indulge in a variety of flavors and dishes that have made Chinese cuisine famous worldwide. From street food to fine dining, every meal in China is an adventure for your taste buds.

One of the most iconic dishes in China is Peking Duck. This succulent roast duck is characterized by its crispy skin and tender meat. It is usually served with thin pancakes, spring onions, cucumber, and tangy hoisin sauce. The ritual of slicing the duck at the table adds an element of theater to the dining experience. Sampling this classic dish is a must for any food enthusiast visiting Beijing.

Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold, spicy flavors, is another must-try when traveling to China. Sichuan peppercorns give the dishes a unique numbing sensation, which pairs perfectly with the intense heat of chili peppers. Mapo Tofu, a famous Sichuan dish, combines soft tofu with ground pork, chili bean paste, and Sichuan peppercorns for a mouthwatering explosion of flavors. Don't forget to cool down your palate with some refreshing tea or a glass of cold beer!

Dim Sum, a classic Cantonese culinary tradition, is a delightful experience that should not be missed. These bite-sized portions of steamed, fried, or baked dumplings are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From steamed pork buns (Char Siu Bao) to shrimp dumplings (Har Gow), every bite is a burst of flavor. Dim Sum is best enjoyed in the company of friends and family, making it a social and delicious experience.

Traveling to China is also a chance to explore lesser-known regional cuisines. In the southern city of Guilin, for example, you can savor the famous Guilin Rice Noodles. These noodles are served in a rich broth made from pork bones and simmered for hours to extract the flavors. Topped with minced pork, pickled beans, peanuts, and chili oil, this simple yet satisfying dish is a comforting treat for the palate.

For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to try Chinese desserts such as Egg Custard Tarts and Sweet Red Bean Soup. These desserts are a delightful way to end a meal and showcase the Chinese love for incorporating sweet flavors into their cuisine.

Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Beijing or venturing off the beaten path in rural China, the country offers endless culinary delights. From iconic dishes like Peking Duck to lesser-known regional specialties, each bite will transport you closer to the heart of Chinese culture. So pack your appetite and get ready for a gastronomic journey through one of the world's most diverse and delicious cuisines.

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China is a country rich in history and culture, and one of the best ways to experience this firsthand is by immersing yourself in the traditional festivals and customs that the country has to offer. From the vibrant colors of the Lantern Festival to the majestic spectacle of the Dragon Boat Festival, each celebration is a unique opportunity to witness China's traditions come to life.

One of the most iconic festivals in China is the Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year. This celebration marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is typically held in late January or early February. During this time, the streets are adorned with red lanterns and decorations, and families gather together for feasts and fireworks. The highlight of the Spring Festival is the dragon and lion dances, which are believed to bring good luck and fortune for the coming year. Immerse yourself in this festival by participating in the traditional customs such as giving out red envelopes with money, and setting off firecrackers to ward off evil spirits.

Another festival that should not be missed is the Mid-Autumn Festival, which is held on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, usually in September or October. This festival is a time for families to reunite and appreciate the beauty of the full moon. The streets come alive with colorful lantern displays, and mooncakes, a traditional pastry filled with sweet or savory fillings, are given and shared as a symbol of unity and harmony. To fully immerse yourself in this festival, join a moon-watching party and indulge in some delicious mooncakes.

If you happen to visit China in the fifth lunar month, you will have the chance to witness the Dragon Boat Festival. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and it commemorates the life of the ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan. Dragon boat races are held across the country, with teams rowing down rivers and lakes to the beat of drums. The boats, which are carved in the shape of dragons, captivate spectators with their intricate designs and colorful decorations. Immersing yourself in this tradition means joining in the excitement of the races and trying the traditional festival food, zongzi, which are sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.

Apart from these grand festivals, there are also many customs in China that are observed on a daily basis. One of the most important customs is showing respect to elders. In Chinese culture, it is customary to greet someone older than you with a slight bow or nod of the head. When dining with others, it is polite to wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin. By observing and participating in these customs, you can gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and show your respect for the local traditions.

In conclusion, traveling to China is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of traditional festivals and customs. From the vibrant celebrations of the Spring Festival to the captivating dragon boat races of the Dragon Boat Festival, each festival offers a unique and unforgettable experience. By participating in these traditions and observing daily customs, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and depth of Chinese culture. So, pack your bags and get ready for an immersive journey into the heart of China's traditions.

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Frequently asked questions.

Traveling to China can be an exciting and culturally enriching experience. The country is vast and diverse, offering a wide range of attractions and activities for travelers. From exploring ancient landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, to visiting bustling cities like Beijing and Shanghai, there is always something new to discover. Additionally, experiencing the delicious cuisine, colorful festivals, and unique traditions of China can make your trip even more memorable.

Overall, China is a relatively safe country to travel to. Like any other destination, it is important for travelers to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Petty theft and scams can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it's advisable to keep your personal belongings secure. Additionally, it's recommended to drink bottled water and be cautious of street food to avoid any potential health issues. However, with proper planning and common sense, travelers can have a safe and enjoyable trip to China.

When traveling to China, it's important to be aware of and respectful of the cultural differences you may encounter. Chinese customs and traditions may differ from those in Western countries. Some important cultural aspects to consider include:

Tipping: Tipping is not a common practice in China and is often considered unnecessary. However, in some high-end establishments or international hotels, a service charge may be added to the bill.

Being mindful of these cultural differences can help you navigate your trip more smoothly and show respect to the local customs and traditions.

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FACT SHEET: President   Biden Takes Action to Protect American Workers and Businesses from China’s Unfair Trade   Practices

President Biden’s economic plan is supporting investments and creating good jobs in key sectors that are vital for America’s economic future and national security. China’s unfair trade practices concerning technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation are threatening American businesses and workers. China is also flooding global markets with artificially low-priced exports. In response to China’s unfair trade practices and to counteract the resulting harms, today, President Biden is directing his Trade Representative to increase tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 on $18 billion of imports from China to protect American workers and businesses.   The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda has already catalyzed more than $860 billion in business investments through smart, public incentives in industries of the future like electric vehicles (EVs), clean energy, and semiconductors. With support from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act, these investments are creating new American jobs in manufacturing and clean energy and helping communities that have been left behind make a comeback.   As President Biden says, American workers and businesses can outcompete anyone—as long as they have fair competition. But for too long, China’s government has used unfair, non-market practices. China’s forced technology transfers and intellectual property theft have contributed to its control of 70, 80, and even 90 percent of global production for the critical inputs necessary for our technologies, infrastructure, energy, and health care—creating unacceptable risks to America’s supply chains and economic security. Furthermore, these same non-market policies and practices contribute to China’s growing overcapacity and export surges that threaten to significantly harm American workers, businesses, and communities.   Today’s actions to counter China’s unfair trade practices are carefully targeted at strategic sectors—the same sectors where the United States is making historic investments under President Biden to create and sustain good-paying jobs—unlike recent proposals by Congressional Republicans that would threaten jobs and raise costs across the board. The previous administration’s trade deal with China  failed  to increase American exports or boost American manufacturing as it had promised. Under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, nearly 800,000 manufacturing jobs have been created and new factory construction has doubled after both fell under the previous administration, and the trade deficit with China is the lowest in a decade—lower than any year under the last administration.   We will continue to work with our partners around the world to strengthen cooperation to address shared concerns about China’s unfair practices—rather than undermining our alliances or applying indiscriminate 10 percent tariffs that raise prices on all imports from all countries, regardless whether they are engaged in unfair trade. The Biden-Harris Administration recognizes the benefits for our workers and businesses from strong alliances and a rules-based international trade system based on fair competition.   Following an in-depth review by the United States Trade Representative, President Biden is taking action to protect American workers and American companies from China’s unfair trade practices. To encourage China to eliminate its unfair trade practices regarding technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation, the President is directing increases in tariffs across strategic sectors such as steel and aluminum, semiconductors, electric vehicles, batteries, critical minerals, solar cells, ship-to-shore cranes, and medical products.   Steel and Aluminum   The tariff rate on certain steel and aluminum products under Section 301 will increase from 0–7.5% to 25% in 2024.   Steel is a vital sector for the American economy, and American companies are leading the future of clean steel. Recently, the Biden-Harris Administration announced $6 billion for 33 clean manufacturing projects including for steel and aluminum, including the first new primary aluminum smelter in four decades, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. These investments will make the United States one of the first nations in the world to convert clean hydrogen into clean steel, bolstering the U.S. steel industry’s competitiveness as the world’s cleanest major steel producer.   American workers continue to face unfair competition from China’s non-market overcapacity in steel and aluminum, which are among the world’s most carbon intensive. China’s policies and subsidies for their domestic steel and aluminum industries mean high-quality, low-emissions U.S. products are undercut by artificially low-priced Chinese alternatives produced with higher emissions. Today’s actions will shield the U.S. steel and aluminum industries from China’s unfair trade practices.   Semiconductors   The tariff rate on semiconductors will increase from 25% to 50% by 2025.   China’s policies in the legacy semiconductor sector have led to growing market share and rapid capacity expansion that risks driving out investment by market-driven firms. Over the next three to five years, China is expected to account for almost half of all new capacity coming online to manufacture certain legacy semiconductor wafers. During the pandemic, disruptions to the supply chain, including legacy chips, led to price spikes in a wide variety of products, including automobiles, consumer appliances, and medical devices, underscoring the risks of overreliance on a few markets.   Through the CHIPS and Science Act, President Biden is making a nearly $53 billion investment in American semiconductor manufacturing capacity, research, innovation, and workforce. This will help counteract decades of disinvestment and offshoring that has reduced the United States’ capacity to manufacture semiconductors domestically. The CHIPS and Science Act includes $39 billion in direct incentives to build, modernize, and expand semiconductor manufacturing fabrication facilities as well as a 25% investment tax credit for semiconductor companies. Raising the tariff rate on semiconductors is an important initial step to promote the sustainability of these investments.   Electric Vehicles (EVs)   The tariff rate on electric vehicles under Section 301 will increase from 25% to 100% in 2024.   With extensive subsidies and non-market practices leading to substantial risks of overcapacity, China’s exports of EVs grew by 70% from 2022 to 2023—jeopardizing productive investments elsewhere. A 100% tariff rate on EVs will protect American manufacturers from China’s unfair trade practices.   This action advances President Biden’s vision of ensuring the future of the auto industry will be made in America by American workers. As part of the President’s Investing in America agenda, the Administration is incentivizing the development of a robust EV market through business tax credits for manufacturing of batteries and production of critical minerals, consumer tax credits for EV adoption, smart standards, federal investments in EV charging infrastructure, and grants to supply EV and battery manufacturing. The increase in the tariff rate on electric vehicles will protect these investments and jobs from unfairly priced Chinese imports.   Batteries, Battery Components and Parts, and Critical Minerals   The tariff rate on lithium-ion EV batteries will increase from 7.5%% to 25% in 2024, while the tariff rate on lithium-ion non-EV batteries will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2026. The tariff rate on battery parts will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2024.   The tariff rate on natural graphite and permanent magnets will increase from zero to 25% in 2026. The tariff rate for certain other critical minerals will increase from zero to 25% in 2024.   Despite rapid and recent progress in U.S. onshoring, China currently controls over 80 percent of certain segments of the EV battery supply chain, particularly upstream nodes such as critical minerals mining, processing, and refining. Concentration of critical minerals mining and refining capacity in China leaves our supply chains vulnerable and our national security and clean energy goals at risk. In order to improve U.S. and global resiliency in these supply chains, President Biden has invested across the U.S. battery supply chain to build a sufficient domestic industrial base. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Defense Production Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act, the Biden-Harris Administration has invested nearly $20 billion in grants and loans to expand domestic production capacity of advanced batteries and battery materials. The Inflation Reduction Act also contains manufacturing tax credits to incentivize investment in battery and battery material production in the United States. The President has also established the American Battery Materials Initiative, which will mobilize an all-of-government approach to secure a dependable, robust supply chain for batteries and their inputs.   Solar Cells   The tariff rate on solar cells (whether or not assembled into modules) will increase from 25% to 50% in 2024.   The tariff increase will protect against China’s policy-driven overcapacity that depresses prices and inhibits the development of solar capacity outside of China. China has used unfair practices to dominate upwards of 80 to 90% of certain parts of the global solar supply chain, and is trying to maintain that status quo. Chinese policies and nonmarket practices are flooding global markets with artificially cheap solar modules and panels, undermining investment in solar manufacturing outside of China.   The Biden-Harris Administration has made historic investments in the U.S. solar supply chain, building on early U.S. government-enabled research and development that helped create solar cell technologies. The Inflation Reduction Act provides supply-side tax incentives for solar components, including polysilicon, wafers, cells, modules, and backsheet material, as well as tax credits and grant and loan programs supporting deployment of utility-scale and residential solar energy projects. As a result of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, solar manufacturers have already announced nearly $17 billion in planned investment under his Administration—an 8-fold increase in U.S. manufacturing capacity, enough to supply panels for millions of homes each year by 2030.   Ship-to-Shore Cranes   The tariff rate on ship-to-shore cranes will increase from 0% to 25% in 2024.   The Administration continues to deliver for the American people by rebuilding the United States’ industrial capacity to produce port cranes with trusted partners. A 25% tariff rate on ship-to-shore cranes will help protect U.S. manufacturers from China’s unfair trade practices that have led to excessive concentration in the market. Port cranes are essential pieces of infrastructure that enable the continuous movement and flow of critical goods to, from, and within the United States, and the Administration is taking action to mitigate risks that could disrupt American supply chains. This action also builds off of ongoing work to invest in U.S. port infrastructure through the President’s Investing in America Agenda. This port security initiative includes bringing port crane manufacturing capabilities back to the United States to support U.S. supply chain security and encourages ports across the country and around the world to use trusted vendors when sourcing cranes or other heavy equipment.   Medical Products   The tariff rates on syringes and needles will increase from 0% to 50% in 2024. For certain personal protective equipment (PPE), including certain respirators and face masks, the tariff rates will increase from 0–7.5% to 25% in 2024. Tariffs on rubber medical and surgical gloves will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2026.   These tariff rate increases will help support and sustain a strong domestic industrial base for medical supplies that were essential to the COVID-19 pandemic response, and continue to be used daily in every hospital across the country to deliver essential care. The federal government and the private sector have made substantial investments to build domestic manufacturing for these and other medical products to ensure American health care workers and patients have access to critical medical products when they need them. American businesses are now struggling to compete with underpriced Chinese-made supplies dumped on the market, sometimes of such poor quality that they may raise safety concerns for health care workers and patients.   Today’s announcement reflects President Biden’s commitment to always have the back of American workers. When faced with anticompetitive, unfair practices from abroad, the President will deploy any and all tools necessary to protect American workers and industry.  

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China is building a more positive tourism image globally, with more foreign visitors sharing their good travel experiences online and not unfairly stereotyping the country.

Two Mad Explorers from Ireland, a video blog channel on YouTube with more than 160,000 subscribers, has recorded the experiences of two travelers from the European country who started their trip to China two weeks ago from Chengdu, the capital of Southwest China's Sichuan province. They describe Chengdu as "clean, beautiful, very modern and an affordable place to visit".

Two visitors from Italy, Sydia and Mica, told Douyin blogger Broke Laowai, who has over 600 followers, that they have traveled to Beijing, Pingyao in Shanxi province and Xi'an in Shaanxi province.

Sydia said she found the people in China to be very kind and thoughtful. They try to help foreigners even if the latter don't speak Chinese and they themselves don't speak fluent English, she said.

The two visitors from Italy also praised mobile phone applications such as Alipay and WeChat, calling these "very cool" apps for ordering coffee, hailing rides and making payments.

China's inbound tourism recorded a good performance after the nation announced its visa-waiver policies for residents of some European and Asian countries and regions in late 2023.

Starting in December, China offered visa-free entry to ordinary passport holders of six countries — France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia — allowing them to stay on the Chinese mainland for up to 15 days for tourism, business and family visit purposes, and also allowing them to transit without a visa.

The policy was extended to another six countries, including Switzerland and Ireland, in March, with its expiration date extended to Dec 31.

The National Immigration Administration issued 466,000 visas to international travelers in the first quarter of 2024, up nearly 120 percent year-on-year, data from the administration showed. Nearly 2 million visits were made to the mainland by visa-exempt foreign nationals in the first quarter, up 266 percent year-on-year.

The boom in inbound tourism continued during the May Day holiday. Around 1.76 million inbound trips were made to the mainland over the five-day break, which started on May 1, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said.

Travel portal Trip.com Group said that inbound travel bookings grew 130 percent year-on-year on the platform, while airport pickup services surged 342 percent year-on-year during the holiday.

Zhang Jinshan, a researcher on tourism planning and development at Beijing Union University, said that China's visa "openness and accessibility" was key to its inbound tourism growth.

"China has made efforts to optimize its visa issuing procedures and made some groundbreaking changes in its visa policies starting in 2023. The inbound tourism market has embraced rapid recovery since earlier this year, with the growth of international travelers from some countries exceeding our expectations," he said.

Zhao Jing, director of customized tours at travel portal Tuniu, said that international travelers like planning their trips in advance, and China's optimized entry policies will give them more time to prepare for their trips as well as boost their confidence in getting to know the country better.

The relaxed entry policies have also cheered up domestic tourism companies, prompting them to channel more resources into launching new products and improving services, Zhao said.

"The inbound tourism (market) has great potential yet to be tapped. I think the optimized policies will also attract more people to work in the sector," she added.

Zhang, the tourism researcher, suggested that China expand its visa-free policy to some neighboring countries, and also to countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, in order to gain a larger share in inbound tourism.

In addition to improving payment, network and accommodations services for international travelers, China can channel more resources to deepen reform, enhance openness and improve the nation's image to secure the stable and sustainable development of inbound tourism, he added.

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