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China Tourist Places

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Forbidden City

Imperial Palace

The Terracotta Army, Xi'an

The Summer Palace

Li River, Guilin

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Yangtze River and the Three Gorges

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Potala Palace

Hangzhou's Historic West Lake

The Mausoleum of Light

Leshan Giant Buddha

Hong Kong Skyline

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Places to Visit in Beijing

Tiananmen square.

Best of Hong Kong

Beijing Capital Museum And The National Centre For The Performing Arts

Beijing Ancient Observatory

National Museum Of China

The Temple Of Heaven

Great Wall Of Badaling

The Fayuan Temple

Shichahai Rents Out Ice Skates

Best of Japan

Places to Visit in Shanghai

Nanjing road.

Oriental Pearl Tower

The construction of the Oriental Pearl Tower was completed in 1995 and it is the second tallest tower in China. This tower is surrounded by Yangpu Bridge and Nanpu Bridge, creating an amazing view of twin dragons playing with pearls. The unique architecture of this TV and radio tower makes it one of the most attractive places in Shanghai. It is surrounded by green grassland on all sides, making it even more photographic. You can travel up and down the tower in its double-decker elevator and enjoy the view from any of its six observation decks. Location: 1 Century Ave, Lu Jia Zui, Pudong, Shanghai, China Entry Fee: 120 CNY onwards per head Timings: 8 AM to 9:30 PM

Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park

Shanghai Auto Museum

Madame Tussauds

Longhua Temple And Pagoda

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Places to Visit in Guilin

Longji rice terrace.

Reed Flute Cave

Elephant Trunk Hill

Yangshuo West Street

Gudong Waterfall

Places to visit in xi’an, xi'an city wall.

Shaanxi History Museum

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Mt. Huashan

Xian Muslim Quarter and the Great Mosque

Bell & Drum Towers

Hanyang Tomb

Hanyang Tomb is a wonderful cultural site with more interesting and engaging spots of Terracotta Warriors. This well-structured site mustered with the emperor’s tomb, empress’ tomb along with burial pits and human sacrifice graveyard. The Burial Pits , popularly known as the underground museum or on site subterranean museum, is a worth visiting place in Hanyang Tomb with it's awesome site to walk on the glass floors to view the terracotta smaller scale people of factual values. Location: Weicheng District, Xianyang, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China

Places to Visit in Guangzhou

Shangxiajiu pedestrian street.

Chimelong Paradise

Sacred Heart Cathedral

Canton Tower

Best of Beijing

Shamian Island

Guangdong Museum

Pearl River

The Pearl River Delta has a bodacious leading role having an important strategic status in the overall effort of China to pursue economic and social development.   It is called Pearl River as the pearl-colored shells lie at the bottom of the river in the section that flows through the city of Guangzhou. Pearl River area is one of the best Places in China bustling with industrial estate yet you'll find the rising of China Pink Dolphins in massive groups floating on the bay. Heading over to the Pearl River, you will get a chance to enjoy night cruising with your loved ones, guided cycle tour of Guangzhou, and a famous Skywalk glass bridge tour. You can also take a day tour to capture the glimpses of alluring natural beauty all around. 

Other Places to Visit in China

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Shilin Stone Forest

People Also Ask About China

Which are the best places to visit in china with family.

1. Forbidden City: Forbidden city is one of the ancient Places to Visit in China that nestles in the heart of Beijing. The city is spread over an area of 180 acres and is home to some of the finest artifacts and collections that take you back in the timeline of Chinese History. 2. Terracotta Army: The Terracotta Army site is home to more than 8000 strong army frozen in time for almost 2000 years in the past. Heading over to one of the heritage Places to Visit in China, you will be able to witness the entire army with generals, warriors, and horsemen. This site is dedicated to the lost soldiers of Qin Shi Huang- the first known emperor of China. 3. Temple of Heaven: The Temple of Heaven is considered to be one of the most sacred and revered religious Places to Visit in China. Constructed before 600 years in Beijing, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Heading over to this place, you will be able to find the symbolism of Taoism. This place is also very much popular among the photographers as its backdrop lets them capture stunning snaps. 4. Great Wall Of China: The Great wall of China happens to be one of the most talked about architectural marvels in the world. The 6000 km long wall built about 2000 years in the past is definitely a paradise for history and architecture lovers.

What can you do in China in 3 days?

1. Boating On River Li: Cruising on the River Li for a period of 4 - 5 hours is surely one of the very first things that you can try out during your China trip. You will have a comfortable experience while kayaking on the river with your loved ones. You can also try out bamboo rafting from Yangshuo on River Li to witness the beautiful and scenic backdrop. 2. Interact With The Cute Pandas: Interacting with the pandas is one of the fun filled things that you do during your trip to China. Capturing the movements of these black and white fluffy animals munching, climbing, and hanging on the bamboo groves are truly adorable. 3. Hike The Floating Mountains: Hiking through the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is one of the most sought after activities as it mimics the floating mountain in Avatar. You will get to hike around the stunning park with clouds surrounding you. 4. Taste The Hot Pot Of Sichuan: During your stay in China, you must make sure that you taste some of the local cuisines which are known for its fiery flavour. You can try out the hot pot of Sichuan Broth which is known for its color and spicy taste.

What is the best time to visit China?

How to reach china.

By Air: China has got a well connected flight network with the rest of the world. You will get plenty of direct flights to the international airports located in Hong Kong, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, and Xiamen. Some of the common flight operators to China are China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Air China, and China Eastern Airlines. By Road: You can reach China from many of its neighbouring countries by bus or by a hired vehicle. You can reach China through Karakoram Highway from Pakistan, Tibet from Nepal, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar. By Water: China can be easily reached by ships from Kobe in Japan and the west coast of Korea. There are regular ferry services between Osaka in Japan and Shanghai, Weihai, Qingdao, Tianjin and Shanghai in China to Incheon in Korea, Hong Kong and Macau, and many others.

What are the requirements for Chinese Visa?

Here are the requirements for a Chinese Visa: - Passport - Photographs - Letter of Invitation - Proof of State Residency - Visa Central Order Form - Visa Application Form - Travel Record - Health Declaration - Authorization Letter

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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.

More on China

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.

You may also like: 5 epic train journeys to take in China These top hikes in China are sure to take your breath away Incredible places in China to challenge your preconception

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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.

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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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Five More Different Places to Visit in China

Asia , China

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 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CHINA

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

After living in China for two years, we decided it was about time we sat down and shared the best places to visit in China. But China is massive so it is only right that we call on our fellow travel bloggers, China expats and travellers to share the what, where, and how of their China travel destinations.

So here it is, the ultimate guide to the BEST places to visit in China.

If you are planning a trip to China, make sure you head over to our YouTube channel to watch our China travel vlogs  or head over to Katie’s channel to see her weekly vlogs living in Tianjin, China. 

Where to visit in China

Of course, we had to start this guide to the best places to visit in China with Tianjin (after living here for two years). This is a growing city, 30 minutes outside of Beijing and accessible by speed train.

Tianjin embraces the new with an ever-changing skyline and a collection of 5-star hotels whilst still staying true to what makes this city unique. It is a city of contrasts. One minute, you may be walking down a street of European architecture and modern buildings then you’ll take a turn and find yourself walking along bustling local markets. 

Food in Tianjin

When we moved here, we were told that Tianjin is the city where you can find all types of Chinese food and we discovered how true this statement was. China is known for it’s incredible food and in most cases, you would have to visit each of the provinces to try the local dishes. But Tianjin is a place with so much local migration from other areas of China, that some of the best food can be found here.

Tianjin is also home to restaurants that specialise in Korean and Japanese food as well as a range of European restaurants too. 

Things to do in Tianjin

Tianjin may not have the postcard landmarks of neighbouring Beijing but it still has some interesting sights to offer. Tianjin is a getaway to the Great Wall; a journey from the city centre will take around two hours.

Plus, within the city you can take a boat along the Heihe river, see the city from above on the Tianjin Eye, sample some street food at the Ancient Culture Street, find yourself in Little Italy at the Italian Quarter and explore the cultural side of Tianjin at the Drum Tower and nearby temples. 

Tianjin isn’t overcrowded with tourists and expats, giving you a true insight into modern city life here in China which is why, you should visit our home city, Tianjin. 

Getting Around Tianjin

Fly – Tianjin Binhai International Airport is just 30 minutes outside of the city centre and offers a direct metro (line 2) into the city. A taxi or Didi (China’s version of Uber) will cost around 40 – 60 RMB into the city centre.

Train – A speed train is available from Beijing, costing 55 RMB and taking 30 minutes. You can also get a speed train from Shanghai, Xi’an and Chengdu.

Drive – Tianjin is a two-hour drive from Beijing and most drivers will charge between 500 – 650 RMB for this journey. Email us at [email protected] for driver details – we have a few recommendations of trustworthy, affordable and friendly local drivers.

Where to stay in Tianjin

• Jinjiang Inn, Tianjin Train Station offers clean, fairly spacious rooms for just 170 RMB, plus it is a great location near the train station and a short walk from the Italian Town and food street.
• The Tianjin Cloud Bay Hostel offers male and female dorm rooms from 56 RMB and can be found nearer the port area.
• Hotel Nikko is a popular hotel with spacious rooms from 430 RMB.
• Chain hotel Holiday Inn offers comfortable, western rooms for 269 MB.
• Shangri-la has an impressive interior with river view rooms costing 1000 RMB – they also offer a fantastic Sunday Brunch!
• You may also wish to splurge for a room at the Four Seasons hotel , also costing 1000 RMB a night.

Kunming is the capital city of Yunnan province. It is not such a popular destination for people travelling to China and is definitely worth a visit before it suffers from overtourism . Most visitors arriving in Kunming tend to leave straight away to Lijiang or Shangri-la. Big mistake – there are ancients temples, scenic lakes, vibrant local market, sumptuous local cuisine, and the one and only stone forest. Whatís more, the air quality is one of the best in China, though it can get dusty at times.

Things to do in Kunming

Stone Forest

Also known as Shilin, here you will come across karst stone landscape, which consists of limestone formation caused by erosion million years ago.

Getting there: from Kunming Eastern Bus station, there are frequent buses to the Stone Forest from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The bus journey is about 2 hours, and the bus fare is 35 RMB per person.

Visit the local market

The largest local market in Kunming, Zhuanxin wet market is located at Xinwen Road and it opens daily from 8 am to 7 pm every day. This is a great place for people watching. You will really get to see the locals, especially on what they eat. The market is clean and well organised, and thereís a huge selection of good cheap food.

Believe it or not, I found dozens of different Sichuan peppers here!

Best Areas to Stay in Kunming

The best place to stay in Kunming is the area surrounding Green Lake (Cui Hu), also known as the jade of Kunming. Green Lake is located in the central of the city and is well connected to many local attractions. The beautiful Yunnan University is right at the opposite of Green Lake Park.

As well, Green Lake Park is the perfect place to spend 2-3 hours and feel the local vibe. You will see many locals showcasing their talents, especially in dancing, singing transitional songs, acting and performing the Chinese opera. There are also some local restaurants and cosy tea house in the centre of the park.

I stayed at Kunming Upland Youth Hostel, which is just two minutes walk from the park. I was reserved about hostels in China but Upland exceeded my expectation. It is well equipped with everything a traveller needs, including English-speaking staff, cosy cafe, nice and clean rooms.

Food in Kunming

In Kunming, there is an enormous choice of edible mushrooms. According to a reliable source, there are more than 800 species. Most species are not available elsewhere, and they do not even have English names! Freak not – most of the local restaurants offer mushroom dishes. I had the mushroom hot pot at a restaurant called Jingchuan Yejunwang and cannot recommend it highly enough!

Tel: 0871-67152168 / 0871-67168577

To make the most of your time in Kunming, follow my one day Kunming itinerary

Author bio: Ming Lee is the blogger behind Flyerism , where she shares smart travel hacks and cheap flight deals.

Getting Around Kunming

Fly – Kunming Changsui International Airport is accessible with direct flights from Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. You can also fly domestically from Beijing, Chengdu, Guilin, Lhasa, Shanghai and Xi’an.

Train – Like most major cities in China, Kunming has four railway stations. Direct trains are available from Shanghai, Nanning, Hangzhou, Yiwu, Dali, Lijian and Yuxi as well as some smaller neighbouring towns.

Bus  – You can also catch a long-distance bus along the highways from Beijing, Lanzhou, Shanghai and Fuzhou.

Where to stay in Kunming

• For a cheap, friendly hostel; check out the Kunming Cloudland International Youth Hostel with budget doubles starting at 112 RMB.
• For a quieter, mid-range hotel, look at Cachet Boutique Kunming Artime.
• Swallow Nest Guesthouse is a charming guesthouse that offers character. This is a perfect midrange hotel for romantic travellers.
• For those looking for 5-star luxury, check out the  Sofitel Kunming which includes a spa, fitness center, swimming pool and excellent location. Plus, the rooms offer stunning views!

Next on our guide to the best places to visit in China is Shenzhen. Shenzhen is interesting because it is an entire city that didn’t exist a mere 40 years ago! In 1979, Shenzhen was designated a Special Economic Zone, so immigrants came from all over the country. As a result, Shenzhen is a fantastic melting pot of different Chinese cultures. Because of this, there are a ton of cool things to do around Shenzhen.

Things to do in Shenzhen

There are so many things to do in Shenzhen, but here are a few that you just can’t miss! Visit OCT-Loft, which was originally an old industrial area with abandoned factory buildings, but is now the trendiest part of Shenzhen.

It houses contemporary art galleries, bohemian coffee shops, fashion boutiques, tasty restaurants and so much more!

Next, visit Splendid China Folk Village. This theme park is laid out like a miniature China. It is the world’s largest and most comprehensive miniature park, reproducing nearly 100 famous tourist attractions in China and 25 full-scale ethnic villages. The park’s theme reflects the history, culture, art, ancient architecture, customs and habits of various nationalities.

Weather in Shenzhen

If the weather is nice, you have to take a stroll around Shekou, the area of Shenzhen right by the coast! It offers gorgeous views of the ocean and of Hong Kong across the water and is a great place to take a bike ride or just lounge in the shade.

If the weather isn’t so great, head over to Queen’s Spa. This is the mother of all spas. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and measuring a massive 480,000 square feet, Queen’s Spa is an absolute unit. There are 7 floors of entertainment, and the amenities range from restaurants to pools, to massage chairs and more.

Getting Around Shenzhen

To get around, use the Shenzhen Metro! It is quite fast, although the lines are not quite efficiently laid out, and it gets unbearably crowded during rush hour. Otherwise, I recommend downloading the taxi-hailing service app, DiDi, or hailing a cab, or using a bike-sharing app on WeChat.

Food in Shenzhen

If you’re getting hungry, try a local delicacy called Coconut Chicken Hot Pot. Hot pot is a popular Chinese dish where raw meat and vegetables are served with a boiling pot of soup, and everyone cooks their food in the soup before eating. Coconut Chicken Hot Pot is this same concept but the soup is made with coconut water instead of regular water (due to Shenzhen’s subtropical climate there are plenty of coconuts). It’s a surprisingly delicious combination.

For a quick snack, stop by Akimbo. Every single part of this coffee shop is photogenic but also unique. You can choose to sit on a set of steps under a neon sign, or at the white tiled counters, or at the cute marble tables, or on the picturesque balcony. The decor is insanely cool, there are neon signs everywhere, and even the plates are decorated with cute illustrations. The food is also unusual – this mousse cake that I ordered looks exactly like a glossy strawberry!

Claire from Adventure Eat Work

Where to stay in Shenzhen

• Shenzhen LOFT Youth Hostel is a highly rated hostel situated in an artistic, hippy area of the bustling city. Dorm beds start at 95 RMB whilst private rooms start at 265 RMB.
• Royce Hotel is a 5-star hotel at affordable prices. Rooms start at 610 RMB and you expect clean and modern rooms.
• Hotel Kapok Shenzhen Luohu is a classic hotel that offers luxury starting at 821 RMB a night.
• The Langham Hotel offers top-end luxury for under 1000 RMB. This hotel offers western standards and is a popular choice for travellers to Shenzhen who don’t mind spending a bit of extra money.

Getting to Shenzhen

Train – The most popular journey to Shenzhen is via train. In mainland China, you can catch a train from many major cities in the country and Guangzhou is a short journey away. You can also catch a 1 hour, 40-minute train from Hong Kong – travel to Hung Hom MTR station on Kowloon side and take the East Rail Line to Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau stations. This is the Hong Kong/Chinese border but you will need a Chinese via to enter Shenzhen.

Ferry – You can also catch a one hour ferry from Hong Kong to Shenzhen.

Fly –  Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport is an expanding airport with over 100 airlines operating domestic and international flights from around 80 different cities. From the airport, you can catch an airport shuttle bus to the city centre or take the metro.

• Complete guide to Shenzhen
• 24 hours in Shenzhen
• Shenzhen from Hong Kong

Harbin is located in the Heilongjiang province in northern China. It’s famous for making the most of its extremely cold winters by hosting the  Harbin Ice & Snow Festival   every year. The festival is the biggest of its kind in the world and a spectacle of all things snow and ice. The main attractions are the replica structures of iconic buildings made out of huge chunks of ice taken from Harbin’s Songhua River and impressive, giant snow sculptures.

If you love Winter destinations, Harbin will be your best place to visit in China.

When to visit Harbin

The best and most popular time to visit Harbin is in winter, during the Harbin Ice & Snow Festival. If you visit during this time be prepared for some very icy temperatures.

Things to do in Harbin

Sun Island Scenic Area is one of the most popular things to do in the city at any time of year. In winter it hosts part of the Ice & Snow Festival , but in summer it’s also a stunning area to explore. You can even visit the Ice Sculpture Garden on a hot summer’s day, the largest indoor Ice and Snow Art Hall in the world. It gives you a taste of what to expect during the Ice & Snow Festival in Winter as it contains sculptures that have featured in past festivals.

As you wander around the city, you’ll notice a Russian influence, most notably at Saint Sophia’s Cathedral . It’s a stunning landmark that may leave you feeling as though you’ve momentarily step foot into Russia.

The scenic pedestrianized Central Street (Zhongyang Daije) is the heart of the city, lined with shopping malls, department stores, cafes and restaurants. Many of the buildings feature European architectural styles and during the Russia era it was the main trading street. Around Central Street, you’ll find heaps of places selling delicious meat skewers and the hugely popular snack of candied fruit.

We saw these everywhere in Harbin and of course, gave them a try. They are traditionally made with Chinese hawthorn, but we tried the ones made with strawberries and pineapple. The fruits are coated in hardened sugar syrup and if you have a sweet tooth they are the perfect snack. Hopefully they still count as one of your five a day too!

Getting to Harbin

Harbin can be reached by plane or train from major cities in China like Beijing or Shanghai.

Fly – If arriving by plane, just bear in mind the airport is about 45-60 minutes outside the city. Taxis and shuttle buses are readily available from the airport, with a taxi journey into the city costing around 130-150 CNY.

Getting around Harbin

Once in the city, it’s easy to navigate with an extensive network of buses, including two tourist routes, a limited but useful metro line and plenty of inexpensive taxi’s. In the warmer months, you can take a ferry to Sun Island across the Songhua River and in winter, when the river is completely frozen over, you can walk across it!

Don’t worry though, if you don’t fancy the walk a cable car is also available to get you there.

Where to stay in Harbin

Earl Hotel – This was our hotel pick; the rooms are spacious and modern and the hotel isn’t far from the city centre. Plus, prices are affordable, starting at 184 RMB a night.

Wanda Realm Resort – For those looking for a resort experience, this hotel is for you. Rooms here are stunning and themed rooms are available for families. Rooms start at 431 RMB a night, including breakfast.

Shangri-La – For those looking for a piece of luxury, Shangri-La is said to be the best hotel in town. Rooms are available from as little as 580 RMB a night with lake view rooms costing a little more.

Sarah from Hotels and Hand Luggage

Every country has its centre, its geographical, political and cultural “core”. Some countries, especially the large ones have two or more such “core”. China has a few, and Guangzhou is one of them. It is the centre of the southern part of the country, called by locals “Nanfang” (The South). And Guangzhou is the well known Canton, one of the largest cities in the world.

Guangzhou is one of the Pearl River Delta cities- the largest city cluster in the world, established on a complex maze of river canals and islands. It has more than 2000 years of history and you can see a lot of traces from the time.

THINGS TO DO IN GUANGZHOU

In general, Guangzhou has 7 important landmarks, which are mandatory for every traveller to visit.

Hike Yuexiu Park, where you can see the famous Zhenhai Tower and the symbol of Guangzhou- the Five Rams statue. Visit Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, which is the best witness of the famous Chinese leader from the beginning of the 20 th century. Walk around the old streets of Liwan and Xiguan Antique City. Be impressed in the fine art masterpieces of Chen Clan Academy.

Touch a part of Europe in Shamian Island, with its western classical mansions. Then make a cruise on Pearl River, watching the best cityscape views of Guangzhou. And finally- ascend to the panoramic terraces of the city’s newest landmark- Canton Tower, from where you can enjoy breathtaking images of Guangzhou, from bird’s point of view.

Food in Guangzhou

And Guangzhou has much more to reveal, but apart of its multiple interesting sites, just the city’s life itself is rich of many things that you can try. Cantonese food is famous not only in China but in the whole world. And there are three main places, where you can try it, and not only to eat but also to shop and enjoy the nightlife.

Best places to eat in Guangzhou

The first place is Shangxia Jiu pedestrian street (in English it means “Up Down 9”, whatever it may means). It is the oldest area of this kind, presenting Cantonese architecture and a lot of local traditional food, such as dim-sum, chang fen, fried noodles, white chicken, etc.

The second place is Beijing Road. It is a more modern pedestrian street with more malls, shops and restaurants. You can see many city activities there.

And the third place is Tianhe Square, which is the skyscraper centre of the city, with one of the largest malls in the world. Inside you can find not only a variety of world-famous cuisines but also every kind of things for shopping.

Where to stay in Guangzhou?

Being such a large center, Guangzhou has really a lot of options for accommodation, from luxury splurge, to budget. But I would recommend you choose from Booking or Agoda a hotel, which is near a metro station. Thus you could much easily move around the city.

Normally, you can plan something like 60 to 100 USD per day (including the accommodation). But if you are a budget traveler, even 30-35 USD could be enough. Having in mind all these details, you could spend a really great time in this unique city.

Krasen from Journey beyond Horizon

Best hotels in Guangzhou

• 433 Life is a modern and chic hotel in the Liwan District, who rooms starting at 453 RMB a night.
• Dongshan Gaga Hotel is a popular hostel in a vibrant area, with dorm beds starting at 78 RMB and private rooms starting at 208 RMB.
• Overlooking the Pearl River, on Shamian Island, the White Swan Hotel is the perfect place to stay for a romantic getaway. Room prices start at 1056 RMB.
• Sofitel Guangzhou is the choice for you if you are looking for luxury and calm away from the bustling city. Rooms start at 960 RMB and rooms with stunning city views are also available.

Getting to Guangzhou

Fly – Guangzhou Airport is a popular entry point into the city – it is also one of the few airports that offer the 144-hour visa-free entry. It is China’s largest transport hub and serves millions of visitors every year. Once at the airport, you can take an airport express bus to various spots in the city or jump in a taxi for the 25-minute journey into the city centre. There is not currently a train that connects the airport to the city centre.

Train – Similarily to all major cities in China, there are 4 different railway stations in Guangzhou. From Guangzhou Train Station, you can catch a speed train to Shenzhen (30-minute journey), whilst the North Railway Station offers high-speed trains to Eastern cities such as Hangzhou and Wuhan as well as Xi’an. The South Railway Station offers high-speed trains to Shanghai, Beijing, Guilin, Hong Kong, Hangzhou and Wuhan.

Suzhou is one of the most beautiful places to visit in China so it is a must visit! Suzhou is known as the ‘Venice of the East’. The city has many canals with gorgeous old buildings running alongside them. When I visited, we enjoyed a beautiful late night boat ride. While it might not have been in a gondola, it was still special! The city is very popular with domestic tourists and it’s not hard to see why. After living in China for a year, Suzhou is one of the most beautiful places I have visited here.

Things to do in Suzhou

Suzhou’s most famous attractions are its water towns. I would recommend visiting Tongli Water Town. We wandered the streets before having a well-deserved cup of coffee at a riverside café.

Suzhou is also famous for its Chinese gardens. I recommend visiting the Lingering garden or Humble Administrator’s Garden. Admittedly, most Chinese gardens look the same to me! Therefore, I advise visiting just one garden while in Suzhou. Tiger hill is also a popular attraction in Suzhou being home to the ‘leaning pagoda of China’.

Local delicacies you must try:

• Squirrel shaped Mandarin fish – the most famous dish to try in Suzhou. This fish is shaped to look like a squirrel and soaked in sweet and sour sauce.
• Shengjian Mantou – these are one of my favourite foods I’ve eaten in China. They are steamed buns containing meat, fried in oil and garlic. So yummy… however, watch out for the squirt of oil when you bite into them!
• Meat mooncakes – this pastry dish is slightly sweet and contain meat in the centre. They are a great little snack you can buy at a local shop or bakery.

Where to eat in Suzhou?

• Deyuelou Restaurant:  Go here for local delicacies

Address: 43, Taijian Lane, Guanqian Street, Pingjiang District

Chinese: 平江区观前街太监弄43号

Estimated cost: 100 RMB per person

• YangYang Dumplings –  Go here for dumplings and local delicacies

Address: 420 Shiquan Jie

Chinese: 十全街420号

Estimated Cost: 50 RMB per person

• Haidilao HotPot –  Go here for Sichuan hotpot (a swirling vat of oil where you cook your meat and vegetables yourself…. don’t forget to try brain and intestines)

Address: 7th Floor, Xinsutiandi Shopping Center, 219, Guangji South Road, Jinchang District

Chinese金阊区广济南路219号新苏天地购物中心7楼

Hannah from Hannah’s Happy Adventure

Getting Around Suzhou

Taxi: a cheap option with the metre starting at around 6 RMB per journey.

DiDi: Chinese Uber – switch your app store to China, and download the English version. A hassle-free way to order taxis starting at 7 RMB per journey

Metro: journeys start at 2 RMB per person, a good option if you’re travelling solo. please note, Suzhou’s metro is not as extensive as other Chinese cities. However, still worth mentioning!

• An Instagram Guide to Suzhou
• Day trip to Suzhou

Where to stay in Suzhou?

• Budget: Mingtown Suzhou International Youth Hostel 
• Mid-range: Garden Hotel
• Luxury: Renaissance Hotel 

Considered the Vegas of the East, Macau is more than flashy casinos and kitsch buildings. There is a rich history with loads of cultural exploration to be had. The food is also great as its a perfect blend of East meets West combining Chinese influence with Portuguese flavours. With over 30mil visitors a year, it has overtaken Vegas in terms of gambling revenue.

Before it became a gambling hotspot Macau was a trading post which started to develop after Portuguese settlements in 1863. Portugal gained full control in 1887, declaring independence from China, but was finally handed back to China in 1999. It is known as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China. So just like Hong Kong, Macau enjoys some autonomy within the PRC, for example, a separate legal, administrative and judicial system, with its own passport, currency and visa system.

Things to do in Macau

Macau is divided into two main parts: Peninsular Macau on the mainland; and the island of Taipa and Coloane, also know as the Cotai Strip, which is actually man-made by landfill.

Macau Peninsula has the Historic Centre of Macau and is UNESCO listed with 22 gorgeous buildings to explore like Casa Garden, Church of St Dominic, Mandarin’s House and Lou Kau Mansion.

The quaint Street of Happiness is a fun road filled with boutique stores, and the Macau Design Center is the place where digital nomads gather to work, chat and explore the ongoing exhibitions. The infamous Hotel Lisboa is also here and you should definitely give it a visit. Not only is it famed for its architecture, but it also houses the only 3-Michelin star restaurants, Robuchon au Dome (French) and The Eight (Chinese).

Cultural sites are various from Na Cha Temple sitting right next to the iconic Ruins of the Church of St Paul, to the 1488-built Taoist A Ma Temple. Stop at A Lorcha (The Sailboat) restaurant close-by to experience Portuguese and Macanese delights.

Moving over to the Cotai Strip, you’ll witness modern Macau with all its flashy and over the top excesses. Beyond gambling, it’s also the place to go for amazing food. Indulge in an egg tart, as this is where the delicious treat was invented. Lord Stow’s Bakery is the original and my personal preference. Move onto Tai Lei Loi to taste South China’s most famous pork-chop bun. Don’t leave without tasting almond cookies, minchi for breakfast, bacalhau and serradura. Antonio’s is one of my top picks for Portugal dining in Macao.

Some of the top casinos to visit are Studio City for its eight-shaped ferris wheel, have a gondola ride at the Venetian, the Dancing Fountain show at the Wynn and the must-see Cirque de Soleil-esque House of Dancing Water Show at the City of Dreams. Explore Taipa Village on foot for a gentle stroll away from the raucous casinos.

Cal from Once Upon a Lifetime 

Getting to Macau

Getting to Macau is fairly easy and although you can fly in, the most popular alternative is to visit via a one hour ferry from Hong Kong. The two main operators are TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet. They start at 7am and there are ferries leaving either every 15mins or 30mins. Visit out of typhoon season in Winter for drier and cooler weather.

Where to stay in Macau

• We loved The Venetian in Macau , a themed hotel that resembles that of Las Vegas. Book directly on their website to get some great offers.
• There are some fantastic, 5-star hotels along the Cotai Strip, including The Parisian (1170 RMB), City of Dreams (990 RMB), Studio City Hote l (1024 RMB) and Grand Coloane Resort (640 RMB).
• Hotel Lisboa  is a great alternative for those looking for affordable luxury at 686 RMB.
• MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE
• Getting from Hong Kong to Macau via Ferry
• The Eight Restaurant Review

Alright, let’s talk real straight for a hot minute: when someone says “insanely beautiful tropical beaches”, China probably isn’t the first place that springs to mind, right?? But China’s southern island, Hainan, is rife with them!

The island is home to miles and miles of sandy shoreline, surf spots , jungle-covered mountains, tropical farmland, towns, and cities — and the fruit, did we mention the fresh fruit?!

Needless to say, Hainan Island is a far cry from the rest of the Chinese mainland — and I don’t just mean in terms of scenery and weather (which, by the way, is warm and sunny virtually year-round).

Culturally and linguistically, Hainan is very much a place apart as well. It’s one of the most ethnically diverse provinces in all of China, with substantial populations of Li, Miao, and Zhuang minorities (as well as the majority population of Han, of course); and as such, the island plays host to dozens of festivals in celebration of its multiethnic culture.

Hainan Outdoor Adventures

Hainan is overflowing with outdoor adventure potential; and yet, still fairly few foreign tourists make it here. To be fair, the world-class waves of Hainan’s east coast have been drawing crowds for the O’Neill’s Surfing Open and the International Surfing Association competitions for years now; and adventurous travellers have long known that Hainan is by far the best place for kitesurfing in China . But for now, Hainan is still slipping blissfully under many foreign tourists’ radars. My advice? Go now, before it all changes.

Hainan Itinerary

Fly into Haikou airport, spend a day exploring the city, then take the bullet train to Wenchang. Eat the famous Wenchang ji (Wenchang chicken — Hainan style!) and visit the quieter parts of town. Hop back on that train and head for Qionghai; skip the gaudy KTV bars and instead take a taxi to Bo’ao and relax on what might be one of the nicest beaches in all of China. Try your hand at kitesurfing, if it’s windy!

Don’t leave town without eating dinner at the local La Mian muslim restaurant, and finish off with a qingbuliang (a Hainan dessert consisting of ice cold coconut milk ‘soup’ with sweetcorn, red beans, watermelon, taro, and tapioca. I know it sounds weird as hell but I’m telling you that lil’ bowl of goodness will change your life ). 

While you’re near the centre of the island, head west for the mountainous middle of Hainan and block off a day to hike the incredible peaks of WuZhiShan (Five Finger Mountain).

Once you’re well and truly knackered from your hike, hop back on the train and hit Sanya. Don’t be put off by the seemingly omnipresent construction and swerving motorbikes; dive into the city’s backstreets and seek out the hole-in-the-wall restaurants with fresh seafood and handmade noodles.

Grab a drink and settle in for a live music show at Nan Lou . Escape to the sister village of Houhai for some r&r and chilled out beach days.

Grace from Extreme Nomads

Getting to Hainan

There are 2 ways to get to Hainan.

Fly – The easiest and quickest route, is to fly into Haikou City, the capital of Hainan Island. You could also into Sanya City but the flights are often more expensive and limited.

Train -There is a train to Hainan Island, which takes you to the railway ferry and across Qiangzhou Straits. This is a more scenic route and one to choose if you are travelling at your own leisure.

Helpful posts

• 3 days in Hainan Island
• 11 Reasons to visit Hainan Island

Where to stay in Hainan

• The SANYA Edition is an expansive, impressive, modern and sleek hotel with rooms available for all types of travellers, starting at 1614 RMB.
• Mangrove Tree Resort World Sanya Bay Kapok Tower is the perfect, affordable hotel with kids play areas, water slides and
• Banyan Tree Sanya is a romantic haven and costs 2082 RMB per night for a villa with private pool.

Chengdu is the perfect destination to start exploring China and we loved spending time in this great city as a family of 5 on our 3 month trip in Asia. 

Initially, what drew us to Chengdu was the promise of seeing the amazing Giant Panda up close but it became so much more than that as we connected with locals at the community playground, discovered amazing food and even spent a lunchtime with local monks in a monastery.

We flew into Chengdu from Melbourne, Australia via Kuala Lumpur. We had to organise an E- visa beforehand which was a pretty easy process. We had booked a guest house in the centre of the city and it confirmed our decision that guesthouses are not just for young backpackers, they can be amazing places for families too. We loved the communal eating areas, being able to book affordable tours and the fun activities they hosted.

Things to do in Chengdu

Outside the guesthouse, we loved visiting the Panda Research Centre (10kms from Chengdu centre) which we organised through our guesthouse. We were transported there and back in a minivan and could explore the park at our leisure. It was easy to spend a whole day here wandering around the gardens and seeing pandas across all ages and learning about how China is conserving this precious animal. Tickets to the park were around $10 AUD each.

Booked through our guesthouse was another family favourite which was a street food tour with our fabulous guide named Winter. We walked through local markets tasting and sampling new foods and learning all about traditional Sichuan food. Our favourite foods to try was all the pickled vegetables and fresh fruit, and of course some pork belly! This tour cost $10 AUD each person.

For lunch, we had a special experience of joining the monks at a local monastery which was amazing for our whole family. We especially liked that the monks would sneak a sweet biscuit to the kids with big smiles even though there was a big language barrier for us.

Chengdu has a great mix of historic China with another area that is modernised with big buildings, shopping centres and great public transport that is easy to navigate.

Bron from Smiths Holiday Road

Where to stay in Chengdu?

As with many major cities in China, you can find elite chain hotels such as the Hyatt, Shangri-La, Hilton and Mercure for cheaper prices than the west but also cheaper than many other cities in Asia.

• For a 5-star luxury, western hotel, the Dorsett Chengdu is stunning but you can also get rooms for as cheap as 320 RMB.
• Flip Flip Hostel is a popular, highly-rated hostel in Chengdu and the perfect choice for young and/or solo travellers. Dorm beds cost 100 RMB whilst private rooms start at 400 RMB.
• For something a little bit different, check out Buddhazen Hotel . Rooms start at 340 RMB and the interior is traditional and gorgeous.

Getting to Chengdu

Fly – Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is the fourth-largest airport in China, with direct flights from Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Nanjing, Hangzhou and other major cities in China. There are also international flights available from Bangkok and Hong Kong.

This airport also allows 144-hour visa-free transit entry, meaning, you can visit Chengdu as part of a stopover and explore the city for up to 5 days. 

Train – Speed trains to Chengdu Railway, North Railway, South Railway and East Railway stations, are available from Chongqing, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Xi’an. Browse the C-Trip app to book tickets and find the best times and seats.

Getting around –  Once in Chengdu, you can use Metro Line 1, 2 and 4 to get around the city; Line 1 connects with the North Railway Station and Line 4 connects to the Dufu Thatched Cottage and Kuanzhai Alley.

Taxis are also available, with the first 3 kilometres costing 9 CNY or use the Didi app to avoid the language barrier.

Hong Kong is an amazing area of China that has so much to see and do. The history and culture of the area, plus the modern twist, make it a great place to spend at least 2 days in Hong Kong during your trip to China. Even though there is so much to do, there were three things I would recommend as must-sees while you are there and a few things you need to know about Hong Kong before you visit. 

Things to do in Hong Kong

Tian Big Buddha

The Tian Big Buddha is an important place to visit for a few reasons. The history of the Big Buddha in Hong Kong is not that impressive, because it’s actually pretty new. Built in 1993, the statue was built as a sort of present for the transition of Hong Kong from UK rule to Chinese rule.

The Big Buddha is located on Lantau Island, and you can visit it by train or by cable car. The cable car route is an amazing adventure in itself but is closed during any bad weather, so plan accordingly.

Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak is another amazing location in Hong Kong, and is one of the best views of the city. You can hike up to the peak or take the Peak Tram. Although the tram seems a little dangerous, it’s actually incredibly safe and an iconic thing you must do while in Hong Kong. 

Victoria Peak (like many other tourist attractions in Hong Kong) has a mall at the top, so take in some shopping or lunch while at the top. However, during our trip, it was completely foggy at the top so there was no view to be seen.

Street Markets

 Although not an obvious attraction, the street markets in Hong Kong are one of the most cultural attractions in the city. The markets include blocks and blocks of vendor stalls, including (mostly fake) designer bags, phones, and clothing of all kinds. There is also plenty of authentic food within these markets, which makes it a perfect outing. Our family of 10 (ranging from ages 8 to 65) spent hours just walking through these markets, and we were all able to get dinner at different places. It was delicious and a fun family experience. My favourite was the Temple Street Night Market. While you are there, go to the centre and find the one sit-down restaurant. The noodles are as authentic as it gets, and the view offers some amazing people-watching. Some other recommendations include eating some hot pot, going to the beach, visiting the Hong Kong waterfront, and just walking around the city. Hong Kong is such an amazing place to visit while in China, and a destination you should definitely not overlook next time you are there. 

Jaclyn from Your Travel Spark

Getting to Hong Kong

Fly – Hong Kong Airport serves international flights from all over the world, including direct flights from London and other European cities. Cheaper alternatives are available if you don’t mind flying via the UAE or smaller Asian countries. Once landed, you can catch the Airport Express Train for KH$100, which takes 24 minutes to Hong Kong Island. There are taxis available, which will cost around HK$300 and take around 40 minutes.

Train – You can catch a ‘through train’ from Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing or the Metro from Shenzhen.

Places to visit in China from Hong Kong

• Macau – Known as the Vegas of Asia, Macau is just a short 1 our ferry away from Hong Kong. You could visit just for the day or spend a few nights on the Macau strip. 
• Guangzhou – Experience a modern Chinese city by visiting Guangzhou. Admire the skyscrapers and stroll through the fancy malls before heading to local restaurant for delicious food. This city is 2 hours by train from Hong Kong.
• Zhuhai – Experience daily life in China in this normal city on the coastline of China. Visit the gorgeous islands that are favourite getaway destinations for Hong Kongers. 
• Shenzhen – Shenzhen is less than an hour away from Hong Kong and can be visited via MTR. This is a city full of cheap shopping and business. 

Where to stay in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is much more expensive than mainland China, so finding quality but cheap accommodation can be a challenge. For Hong Kong, make sure you compare prices across comparison websites and the hotel websites, often you can find deals for hotels; especially in the past year, with tourism being heavily affected by the protests

• Yessin @ YMT – This hostel is in a great location and offers fantastic services. Private rooms start at 240 RMB whilst dorm beds start at 92 RMB.
• The Salvation Army Booth Lodge offers a good size room for just HK$400 a night.
• The IBIS is our favourite because it is in an excellent location and rooms offer fantastic views across the harbour but room prices start at HK$650 – considerably less than the big chain hotels with similar views.
• For a luxurious stay, check out The Royal Garden Hotel with rooms starting at HK$950.
• Hong Kong Travel Guide
• TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN HONG KONG
• The Peak in Hong Kong & the View from Sky Terrace 428

Yangshuo is one of the most unique places in China to visit,  located in Southern China. Firstly because it feels like you’re in Avatar with it’s huge limestone mountains which make up the landscape of this region, and secondly because the town of Yangshuo is full of restaurants, shops, bars and clubs for tourists. Yangshuo was the first place I visited in China and it really surprised me!

Things to do in Yangshuo

You can easily spend a few days in Yangshuo and activities I’d recommend are hiking up to the TV Tower in town, riding a bike to the nearby caves which have a mud bath inside them, doing a cooking class in town, going rock climbing and kayaking.

Cloud 9 Cooking School is a great place to learn how to cook some typical Chinese Dishes and it’s also a good place to eat Dinner although it is more on the pricey side with meals costing around £3.00-£3.50.

There’s not a shortage of restaurants in Yangshuo though and they offer a range of Chinese dishes and Western Food to suit all budgets.

Once you’ve finished with dinner you can head into one of the many bars and clubs along the main walking street. They’re not hard to find as you can hear them from a distance and see their flashing lights. Live music is popular in many of these bars too. 

A budget tip when in Yangshuo, is to walk around the shops and try all of the free samples they have on offer. There are lots of sweet treats including Durian Cake on offer and not only are you sampling the local food, but you’re also saving money on buying snacks.

Ellie from The Wandering Quinn

Getting to Yangshuo

Train: The City of Guilin is the nearest major City; you can fly into Guilin or get the train from many cities around China and the south. From Guilin, you can. reach Yangshuo by an hour bus or taxi journey. Alternatively, you could get a cruise boat down the Li River. 

It’s possible to travel from Hong Kong to Guilin, it takes a full day of travel including crossing the border into China but once in China there is a bullet train from Shenzhen to Guilin.

Getting around – It’s very easy to walk around the town of Yangshuo and for places further out you can hire a bike or join an organised tour, you’ll see many on offer once you’re there, meaning it’s a good place to visit as an independent tourist in China.

Where to stay in Yangshuo

If you’re backpacking China and staying in hostels you’ll be pleased to know that there are lots of hostels in Yangshuo starting from as little as £2.00 a night in a dorm room. Hostels that are highly rated are Yangshuo Wada Hostel and Yangshuo Sudder Street Guesthouse, both of which are in the town centre.

Obviously, we can’t have a guide to the best places to visit in China without including the capital. Beijing is often the destination you will fly in or out of and is full of history, culture and a modernising cityscape. When you think of the best sites in China and the important places of China, it is likely that many sites are in Beijing. 

Things to do in Beijing

There are a lot of interesting things to do in Beijing but here are some of our favourites:

The Great Wall – You can’t visit Beijing without spending a day at the Great Wall. There are many different sections of the Great Wall to visit, so do your research and choose a section that is best for you.

Summer Palace –  This palace is beautiful and the perfect way to spend a spring, summer or autumn day. Walk around the grounds and lakes of this imperial garden from the Qing Dynasty.

Forbidden City – This is the busiest attraction in Beijing but is worth the visit. It is the largest and best-preserved collection of ancient buildings and was home to two generations of dynasties.

Hutongs – Head to the hutongs of Beijing for a fun and busy day out. These hutongs have been converted to boutique, independent bars and cafes but you can also find tasty street stalls too.

Getting to Beijing

Fly – Beijing is home to the biggest airport in the country and this is predominantly how international visitors travel to Beijing. The airport serves over 120 destinations and direct flights are available from major cities around the world.

From the airport, you can get to the city centre via train or taxi – taxis are cheap in China but traffic can be bad during Chinese holidays.

Train – You can catch a speed train from most major cities in China to Beijing, and if a speed train isn’t available from a destination, it is likely that you can get a normal train a certain distance then jump on a speed train.

• Beijing 161 Lama Temple Courtyard Hotel is a traditional courtyard with rooms starting at 469 RMB. The location is excellent – the Lama Temple and metro line are near but also, the nearby hutongs offer cute cafes and boutique bars.
• The Chinese Box Courtyard Hostel offers dorm beds for 150 RMB, which includes breakfast and the hostel offers free dinners, three times a week as well as tea ceremonies on the weekends.
• Novotel Beijing Xinqiao offers good western standards at a fair price; rooms start at 570 RMB per night.
• Courtyard 7 is the perfect mix of high quality, affordable prices and perfect location. This is our favourite place to stay in Beijing because it is an experience in itself.

Helpful posts:

• BEIJING TRAVEL GUIDE
• 10 THINGS TO DO IN BEIJING, CHINA
• TIPS FOR HIKING THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA

XI’AN

The home of the Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an, offers so much more than clay pots. We love Xi’an and everything it has to offer.

Things to do in Xi’an

• Muslim Quarter – Head to this bustling area of restaurants and street stalls selling weird and wonderful food. We loved the lamb kebab sticks and Biang Biang noodles.
• City Wall – The city wall surrounding Xi’an offers wonderful views and an insight into the history of this ancient capital. Take a walk around the temple or better still, rent a bike and cycle the route.
• Bell and Drum Tower – You can’t miss these towers in the centre of the city but they do look amazing at night when they are all lit up.
• Giant Wild Goose Pagoda – This pagoda is amazing and also, given its slightly further away location, it is often a lot quieter than other areas of the city.
• GuanGren Temple – This Buddhist temple is absolutely stunning; full of colour and intricate detail.

Whilst spending time in the area, jump on a speed train over to Luoyang for an off-the-beaten-path destination and incredible Shaolin Temple. 

Getting to Xi’an

Fly – Xi’an Xianyang Airport connects to most major cities in China as well as international destinations such as; Macau, Hong Kong, Seoul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Japan.

Train – Being a few hours from Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, Xi’an welcomes a lot of its visitors at the Railway Station. Speed trains are available to and from most major cities and, once at the train station, catch a taxi into the city centre for the easiest route to your hotel or hostel.

Where to stay in Xi’an

• Han Tang Inn Hostel – This hostel has got real character and is placed in the perfect position in the centre of the city. It is a short walk from the drum and bell tower as well as Muslim street. Private rooms start at 140 RMB and 36 RMB gets you a dorm bed.
• Ramada Drum Tower – If you want a little bit of luxury in a good location, this is the place to stay. Rooms start at 380 RMB and tours to the Terracotta Warriors can be arranged at reception.

Viewed as Heaven on Earth by Chinese people, Hangzhou is utterly a dreamy place to visit and live in. I recently made a side trip from Shanghai to Hangzhou, and honestly, that was one of the most mesmerizing destinations in China I had ever been to.

Not just about the stunning West Lake, I was so obsessed with the rich history and gourmets as well as the easeful lifestyle that natives uphold. The best way to discover the charm of Hangzhou is, of course, to walk and eat like a local.

• Things to do in Hangzhou

West Lake is no doubt the No. 1 stunner of Hangzhou City. There are a great number of free picturesque parks clustered around the huge lake, where you could easily immerse in the soothing and refreshing scenes and plants. The Su Causeway (Su Di) was my favourite part of the experience. Walking under the lush tree shades was definitely a great treat, especially on a summer day. Another surprise of my walking tour was the Lotus in the Breeze. Huge ponds of rosy lotus, all in blossom, were quite a spectacle that I literally had little chance to see in my country.

Lingyin Temple is another big draw located northwest of Hangzhou. Literally translated as Temple of the Soul’s Retreat, it is a true escape away from the city bustle. The temple allows you to easily get lost in time and place, with a special sense of calmness and quietness. I saw a lot of locals coming with incense sticks, and I guessed it must be a part of their monthly rituals praying for well-being.

If you are looking for something off-the-beaten-path, I would suggest you visit the world’s longest canal that flows through Hangzhou city. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a canal is now a laidback place for leisure free of crowds. It is a delight to wander through stylish inns, cafes and boutiques settled on the embankments, and more interestingly, you could encounter an array of funny museums about Chinese handicrafts like umbrellas, paper fans, and kites, silk and even scissors.

Personally speaking, Meijiawu Tea Village should not be skipped, either. It is a famous base for Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea) which is regarded as the best-of-the-best among green tea in China. I was given a chance to be a tea farmer for a half day at a farmhouse, where I was able to see how tea was processed. It was a great learning experience deep into Chinese tea culture that I would highly recommend to any tea lover.

What to eat in Hangzhou

Just several days after returning home, Hangbang cuisine became something I missed most about Hangzhou. Hangzhou food is characterized by light, mild and sweet tastes, which could be probably the most agreeable cuisine of China to foreign tongues and stomachs. Stir-fried shrimps with Longjing tea, crab meat tofu and dongpo pork are the dishes one must have a try. Concerning the restaurants specializing in Hangzhou food, I had only been to Louwailou and Zhiweiguan. Both are famous sites where beforehand reservations could keep you free of waiting.

Getting around Hangzhou

For expats in Hangzhou, a taxi and walking might be the easiest and most ideal mode to explore the city. There are plenty of taxis in Hangzhou, and you can access one by the side of a street. However, the case is different at tourist sites. When I finished sightseeing in West Lake, I found it truly hard to find a taxi. I had to walk a bit far from the major avenue to try my luck. Meanwhile, I think you also should avoid hailing taxis around rush hours when traffic gets really crazy.

Many suggest a biking tour around West Lake like I just had planned, but finally, I gave up on that. As I saw, there were a few cyclists on the boulevard, where instead I noted many locals opted for a leisurely walk along the waterfront path. It was inspiring seeing their active lifestyles and following their pace to discover the city’s stunners. You could spend hours roaming and photographing around, with break stops on the well-located benches. Likewise, the Grand Canal is also a pleasantly walkable place where you could explore according to your pace.

Where to stay in Hangzhou

This was the second time I visited Hangzhou, and as I always did, I chose to stay in a lakeside hotel. Luxury brands like Hyatt Regency and Dahua Hotel by the eastern lake embankment offer brilliant views of the West Lake. For first-timers, places like Longxiang Bridge and Wushan Square are the best choices. You could not only find lakeside accommodations of various standards, but also a lot of affordable shopping and eating options.

• HANGZHOU TRAVEL GUIDE
• Why you must visit Hangzhou

Historic, glamorous, mysterious and exotic, we share everything you need to know before visiting in this Shanghai Travel Guide.

High-rise buildings stand aside rich cultural temples and gardens, creating an incredible hybrid that draws tourists in.

There are some gorgeous temples and buildings to visit as well as great shopping opportunities. Each neighbourhood shows a unique side to the economic capital, whilst there are some great day trips from Shanghai too.

Things to do in Shanghai

The Bund – Walk along the waterfront for gorgeous views of the Shanghai skyline; perfect if you are looking for an evening stroll. If you are looking for a romantic experience, why not take a cruise along the Huangpu River. 

Yuyuan Garden – This Ming Dynasty garden is a beautiful place to visit in the bustling city. With colourful pagodas, decorative shop fronts and delicately engraved bridges, there is lots to appreciate here. Visit early or during the week to avoid the crowds. 

Oriental Pearl TV Tower – Head up this famous landmark for views of the city. There are 15 different levels to visit as well as the Shanghai Municipal History Museum. Arrive early or late to avoid queues. 

Shanghai Tower – Head up to the highest building in China for a bird’s eye view of the city. It has the fastest elevator in the world so expect your ears to pop! This is a great alternative to the Pearl Tower because it is taller and often has a shorter queue. 

Zhujiajiao – Visit the Watertown on the outskirts of the city for a unique look at old China. Stroll through the canals and bridges before eating at a local restaurant in the area. 

Shanghai Museum – The Shanghai Museum is home to over 120,000 pieces of ancient relics including ceramics and sculptures. 

Getting to Shanghai

Fly – Shanghai is China’s second-largest international air hub with flights inbound from around the world. Flights from the USA (West Coast) work out at 13/14 hours whilst flights from London take about 11 hours.

Domestic flights connect Shanghai to every major city in China. Be aware that there are two international airports; Pudong and Hongqiao, so check which airport your departure flight goes from. 

Bus – The unpredictable traffic makes travelling by bus an unpopular choice. The Shanghai South long-distance bus station serves cities in the south of China but can be difficult to get to.

Train – The only international train arriving in Shanghai is the T99 from Hong Kong but there are some great options to travel by train from other parts of China. The city has three main stations; Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station and Shanghai South railway station. Speed trains are available to and from Beijing, Guangzhou (which is a short 2-hour train ride to Hong Kong), Nanjing, Hangzhou and Suzhou.

Where to stay in Shanghai

Budget:  The Shanghai Fish Inn Bund is a favourite of mine, with private rooms starting at ¥145 and just a short walk from Time Square and the metro station.

Another popular spot for budget travellers is the Shanghai Chi Chen Hostel dorm beds starting at ¥72 and just a few metres from Xiaonanmen subway station.

Midrange: The Astor House Hotel is ideal for those interested in the history of the city; located a 2-minute stroll from Waibaidu Bridge and a short walk from The Bund Historical Museum and Huangpu Park. Rooms start at ¥490.

Luxury: Oozing luxury, the Grand Central Hotel is a stunning and vast hotel that is perfect for a night or two if you want to treat yourself. Rooms start at ¥850 and this is definitely a place I will be spending a night or so next time we visit Shanghai.

PLACES TO VISIT IN CHINA FAQ

Where should you go in China?

The best places to go in China include:

• Xi’an
• Ping’an 

Which part of China is most beautiful?

Zhangjiajie is a beautiful place to visit in China; with gorgeous pillar karst that inspired the film Avatar. You can also enjoy a stunning sunrise over the Yellow Mountains or take a cruise down the Li River for beautiful karst landscapes. 

What is the prettiest city in China?

The prettiest city in China is Yangshuo if you are looking for stunning karst surrounding a town whilst the town of Zhouzhuang is a gorgeous water village between Shanghai and Suzhou. 

Is China safe to visit?

China is a very safe place to visit, with a very low crime rate. Learn about the local laws and cultures before visiting and make sure to download a VPN before arriving, so that you can access social media and blocked sites during your visit. 

What is China famous for?

China is known for its Great Wall, Forbidden City, delicious food and thousands of years old architecture. 

How much does a trip to China cost?

China is not as cheap as South East Asia but you can still visit on a budget. Plan to spend around $60 a day in the smaller cities and at least $80 a day in the bigger cities (including accommodation). We have a full cost of travel in China breakdown to help you plan your trip. 

Is Japan more expensive than China?

Yes, because of accommodation and travel. As a smaller country, hotel prices are much higher than China’s, meaning it is a more expensive place to visit. Food is often at similar prices as is public transport but expect to pay more for long-distance trains, flights, alcohol and some attractions.

Is visiting China expensive?

No, travel in China can be affordable if you stick to public transport, local meals and local hotel chains. 

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14 Best Cities to Visit in China with Tips on Places to Visit

When we hear about China, we imagine that big country in Asia, so big and a challenge to explore. The journey there will be filled with awe of the place and its fascinating history. There are about 55 World Heritage Sites, 14 Natural, 37 are Cultural and 4 Cultural Natural Sites. IT is also one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world. Though most of us only know Bejing, Shanghai, the Great Wall, and Pandas; China has a lot more to offer.

China or the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is the world’s most populous country and the third-largest country. It includes 22 provinces, 5 regions, 4 DCM, and 2 special administrative regions. The Disputed territory, Taiwan, is claimed by China as its 23rd province; however, Taiwan doesn’t consider itself as the Republic of China rather than PRC.

If you’re planning to visit this intriguing country, there you’re in the right place. We will tell you the 15 best cities to visit in China and popular tourist attractions in China. This post will help you with your China itinerary. So prepare your pen and paper and read this list:

Table of Contents

North China

Beijing is the capital of China; filled with modern architecture and a long marvelous history. Start with the pride of the country; the Great Wall of China . After that, walk around 72 hectare Forbidden City , the emperor’s home for almost 500 years. Relax like a royal as you go to the Summer Palace or the Temple of Heaven . If you want to be in awe of modern architecture visit CCTV Headquarters or Taikoo Li .

North West China

One of the most unique cities in China since it is on the edge of the Gobi Desert. Tour the Mogao Caves which is also known as Thousand Buddha Grottoes. Stop by and hang out at an oasis in the middle of the dessert; Crescent Lake . Ride camels along the silk road and see at Yumenguan Pass or Yangguan Pass .

If you want to learn more about ancient China, Xi’an is where to go. Home to 4 dynasties, this city is famous for Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum – where the Terracotta Army, a collection of sculpture of the First Emperor of China, is. Have a stopover at Giant Wild Goose Pagoda or Bell Tower of Xi’an. Bike around the Fortifications of Xi’an and afterward unwind at Huaqing Pool .

Shanghai is the biggest city in PRC; it is a financial center and the world’s busiest port. Most of “made in china” items were shipped from Shanghai. As it sits beside the Yangtze River, take a walk day or night at The Bund . You may also view the whole city at Oriental Pearl TV Tower or Shanghai Tower . If you want to be free from the buzzing capital, visit Yu Garden . Plus, for those children at heart, Shanghai Disney Resort is a must.

“Above there is heaven, below there are Hangzhou and Suzhou,” a famous saying says. Hangzhou has inspired poets. The most popular attraction is West Lake , a UNESCO World Heritage. Check out the Lingyin Temple and Leifeng Pagoda . Take a ride along the Grand Canal. You can hike and try skiing at Mount Daming .

Huangshan means “Yellow Mountain” as the city this city prides itself on its Mount Huangshan , one of the country’s most beautiful mountains. Walk around ancient Xidi Village and Hongcun Village . Trek to Lianhua Peak (Lotus Flower Peak) and place your lock a wish.

Dubbed as the “Venice of China,” this city is famous for its canals and classical gardens. The Classic Gardens of Suzhou are a UNESCO Heritage; Humble Administrator Garden and Lion Grove are two included in the list. Ride a boat along the waterways of Pingjiang Road or Shantang Street . Climb to Tianping Mountain to see the more natural beauty of this city. Relax also at the picturesque Emerald Valley .

South Central China

Known for its landscape of limestone karst hills, you should book a cruise on Li River and look out for the Elephant Trunk Hill ; it looks like an elephant sipping on water. Check also Reed Flute Cave , colorful limestone cave or the Longsheng Rice Terraces . Pick between the Seven Star Park or Yangshuo Park .

An autonomous territory of China, offers 145 countries visa-free entry as its policy is different from mainland China. Hong Kong is a vibrant port and financial hub filled with a skyscraper-studded skyline. Witness the Symphony of lights of the Victoria Harbour and see it at Victoria Peak . Feel the magic at Lantau Island for Hong Kong Disneyland , tour inside Ocean Park too.

Another Special Administrative Region, Macau has a different visa policy as mainland China; they offer visa-free entry to 66 countries. Macau is the Las Vegas of Asia, feel the vibe at Venetian Macao . However, Macau isn’t only full of casinos, they also have the Historic Centre of Macau , a world heritage; the Ruin of St. Paul’s and A-Ma Temple is a part of it. Go up the Macau Tower for a panoramic view.

Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie is home to Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, a UNESCO world heritage, due to jagged sandstone columns covering forests, falls and land bridges. Hike to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and cross the famous Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge . You can also try going to Tianmen Mountain and ride the world’s longest cable car. Explore Huanglong Cave or loosen up beside the Baofeng Lake .

South-West China

If you love pandas this is the place to see one! Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan province and home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding . If you want to hold a baby panda, prepare your cash and visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base , you can stop by at Dujiangyan Irrigation System after that. Journey to Mount Qingcheng and see Taoist Temples or relax at Du Fu Thatched Cottage , home of a Tang Dynasty poet.

Lhasa, meaning “place of the gods,” is the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, where part of Mount Everest lies. Feel like royalty as you roam around Potala Palace and Norbulingka . Trek to the iron mountain Chagpori . Learn more about Buddhism at Jokhang Temple or see monks at Sera Monastery .

In this city visit the Old Town of Lijiang, a UNESCO heritage site, built on the Song Dynasty. Hike towards the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain . Unwind and enjoy the scene at Black Dragon Pool or Lugu Lake . Nearby, visit the Baishu Terrace (White Water Terrace) were spring water flows.

Visiting China soon?

I bet you don’t know where to start or what to choose?  China is indeed a place you want to spend at least a month in, if possible. I feel that touring here for a week is not enough as there are such gorgeous and unique places. Each city offers a different vibe, such intriguing historical artifacts, and scenic natural views.

China allows 17 countries visa-free entry for 90/60/30/15 days. If you want to visit there, you might need a Chinese Visa. If you’re a Filipino, check out my Chinese Tourist Visa Guide so that you can enter this stunning country. However, visa policies for Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are separate. There are also region-specific visa regulations that allow you to tour without a visa for a limited time especially if you are part of a group tour.

Brush up your Chinese, prepare your passport and visa, and we hope that this list will help you where to go in your China adventure. In this 15 Best Cities in China List, may you enjoy the country and its culture and ready yourself to be mind blown by its beauty! Happy Travels!

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• The 15 Most Beautiful Places in China (#7 Will Impress You)

China's vast and diverse territory endows the country with some of the most beautiful natural scenery on earth. From the picturesque karst landscape in Guilin and Yangshuo to the precipitous pillars in Zhangjiajie, from the Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye to the holy high land of Tibet, China's diverse natural beauty is as impressive as it is splendid culture.

Content Preview

• 1. Karst Landscape
• 2. The Yellow Mountains
• 3. Zhangjiajie
• 5. Shangri-La
• 7. Zhangye's Danxi
• 8. Western Sichuan
• Which One(s) to Visit? Visit them at the Right Time!
• 10. Inner Mongolia
• 11. Hangzhou
• 12. The Yuanyang Terraced Fields
• 13. Jiuzhaigou
• 15. Xishuangbanna

1. Guilin & Yangshuo — China's Most Beautiful Karst Landscape

The Li River in Guilin is like an artist's masterpiece, bounded by classic sheer karst hills, which have inspired many poets and ink painters. It is listed as one of the world's " Top 10 Watery Wonders " by America's National Geographic Magazine and the World's "15 Best Rivers for Travelers" by CNN Travel .

Taking a leisurely cruise or a 3–4-hour family-friendly moderate hike (more on Li River hiking ) are good ways to enjoy the Li River's beauty. We can take you to less-crowded stretches for you to immerse yourself in this paradise of nature.

When looking for natural beauty, Yangshuo comes first in Chinese minds for its karst hills and rivers. Get away from the touristy parts of Yangshuo and enjoy the idyllic, painting-like scenes in peace.

Challenge yourself to a SUP (stand-up paddleboard, i.e. a mini raft) on the Yulong River, take a bamboo raft, have a cycling tour into the countryside, or take an exciting drive with an all-terrain vehicle.

• 4-Day Guilin Scenic and Ethnic Discovery (The Basic Itinerary)
• 5-Day Dynamic Guilin and Yangshuo Tour (Best for Outdoor Experience)
• 6-Day Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longsheng Tour (The Classic Itinerary)

2. The Yellow Mountains and Villages Nearby

An image of a twisting pine tree growing from a curiously curved rock pops into Chinese minds when they hear of the Yellow Mountains .

These mystical and mystical mountains are the most beautiful and most famous in China. Their classic attractions are grand dawns and their "four natural wonders": peculiar pines, oddly-shaped rocks, seas of clouds, and hot springs.

This fairyland scene with the sunset and the sea of clouds is also perfect for a marriage proposal or to mark an important occasion. See our 5 Days Dynamic Huangshan Tour .

The nearby villages, for example, Bishan Village is where you could quiet down and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the countryside.

You could walk or bike among ancient villages, stay in a typical Hui-style inn, and see how artists turn this small area into a rural paradise on canvas. Canola flowers in spring can be the icing on the cake.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

3. Zhangjiajie — Precipitous Pillars

The precipitous pillars in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park are the inspiration for the Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar.

Zhangjiajie is famous for its towering peaks, breathtaking rock pillars, and deep valleys. The forest of massive pillars is one of the best muses for photographers in China.

Take a 4-day tour of the main highlights in Zhangjiajie : Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon with its Glass Bridge, and Tianmen Mountain.

Want a non-touristy route? 5-Day Zhangjiajie Hiking and Biking Tour for Any Level is a good choice.

Bungee jumping at Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is available. Contact us to arrange an adventure tailored for you.

See more on How to Plan a Tour of Zhangjiajie and 2 Weeks in China: 3 Top Itinerary Ideas for Couples, Families, and More .

4. Lijiang — An Ancient Town with Awesome Natural Beauty

Lijiang , with its ancient town, snowy mountains, highland glacial lakes, and majestic canyons is truly a breathtakingly beautiful destination.

A stroll in Lijiang Ancient Town brings you a charming look at local Naxi minority life. Take a cable car up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to enjoy fantastic views of the glaciated peak.

Or you may choose to skip the cable car, hike through the bushes, wade across a little stream, and enjoy exclusive views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain that only hikers can .

Take a 2-day hike along the deepest-but-easily-accessible gorge. Tiger Leaping Gorge is considered the best hiking trail in China and a once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list experience. You will not only hike between two holy snow-capped mountains but also be a party to the most remarkable views when passing the steep 28 bends and the most tumultuous part of the Jinsha River.

• 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour
• 9-Day Yunnan Family Toure

5. Shangri-La — the Holy Meili Snow Mountains

In the southwest of Deqin County, Shangri-La, and the surrounding Meili Snow Mountains is a holy place of pilgrimage for Tibetan people. The mountain range has 13 peaks and the main peak is Kawagebo, which is 6,740 meters (22,100 feet) above sea level.

The most important highlight is the golden sunrise on these spectacular snow-capped peaks.

The best season to visit the Snow Mountains is autumn when the sky is clear and blue.

Besides the snow-capped mountains, you can also see plateau lakes, thick forests, exotic flowers and trees, and various wild animals in the mountains. There are many Tibetan monasteries and villages at the foot of the mountains, bringing you a real Tibetan cultural experience.

Pudacuo National Park, about 22 km (14 mi) from Shangri-La, is also stunning in the fall. The blue sky, red meadows, clear lakes, and colorful forests make a beautiful picture.

• 7-Day Shangri-La and Meili Snow Mountain Adventure Tour

6. Tibet — Lofty Mountain Splendor

Tibet , locked in the Himalayas, holds travelers' imaginations of the lost Shangri-la. From the unspoiled sacred lakes to the world's highest peak — Mount Everest ; from the vast untouched Changtang Grasslands to the depths of the Yarlung-Tsangpo Canyon, the Roof of the World is filled with awe and pristine beauty.

If you are interested in the Tibetan lifestyle, we can arrange for you to visit a local Tibetan family. You could talk to the host (with our guide's interpreting) about the family's life and help them with farming work.

Tibet doesn't accept independent travelers. Traveling with a travel agency is required. Contact us to explore the main highlights from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp. Consider a top Tibet trekking trip, the Everest Base Camp trek , if you'd love a more outdoorsy experience.

• 5-Day Lhasa Highlights and Lake Yamdrok Tour
• 8-Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour
• 17-Day Beijing-Xian-Tibet-Chengdu-Guilin-Hong Kong

7. Zhangye's Danxia Landscape — Rainbow Mountains

The Danxia landscape in Zhangye is vividly named "Rainbow Mountains" by many due to its dazzling colors. Danxia (丹霞 /dan-sshya/) means "red, red clouds". In China's remote northwest, Zhangye is deeply loved by photographers and en route for those on a Chinese Silk Road scenery and culture journey.

The landscape is composed of curvy, layered, multi-hued formations, most of which are several hundred meters high. When the sun shines on them, their colors appear in full vibrancy. It looks like an oil painting when the vast red rock formations are simply set against a pure blue sky.

• 6-Day Zhangye and Dunhuang Photography Tour
• 8-Day Qinghai Lake, Zhangye, and Dunhuang Tour
• 10-Day Lanzhou–Xiahe–Zhangye–Dunhuang–Turpan–Urumqi Tour

8. Western Sichuan Province — Pure Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve

Yading Nature Reserve is called "the last pure land on earth" and "the last Shangri-La".

It features snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, vast grasslands, and colorful forests. You can tour it by starting from Chengdu and passing through Xinduqiao, a picturesque Tibetan town famous for its plateau pasture views, before arriving at Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve. You will see stunning fall scenery throughout the whole trip.

The Tibetan cultural experience is another highlight of this route. You can see many ancient monasteries and Tibetan-style houses during the trip.

• 4-Day Western Sichuan Tibetan Spring Tour from Chengdu
• 8-Day Chengdu to Shangri-La Adventure Tour
• 9-Day In-Depth Exploration of Western Sichuan — Baby Pandas, Eastern Alps, and Hidden Monasteries

9. Kanas in North Xinjiang — Beautiful Mountain Lake

Nestled in the deep forests and mountains of Altay, Kanas is a truly beautiful mountain lake. Since its access roads have been improved for travelers, it has attained a reputation as "the tourism pearl of Mountainous Altai".

The lake takes on different colors following the four seasons: sometimes it's crystal blue, sometimes it's dark green or even gray, and you may find it containing many colors setting off each other, thus it got a name as "the color-changing lake".

Nearby Kanas Lake, you can visit a village of the Tuwan tribe, which is a branch of the Mongolian ethnic group . Believers of Lamaism, live in their traditional houses and practice their centuries-old traditions. If you are interested in local culture, you can visit the village or even stay with hospitable families.

• 8-Day North Xinjiang Tour (with Kanas)
• 7-Day Xinjiang Highlights Tour (Best for First Timers)
• 8-Day Xinjiang Tour with Ili (Best for Summer)

10. Ejina Desert Polar Forest in Inner Mongolia

A Euphrates poplar golden leaves shoot in autumn is a dream trip for many photography lovers. If you're one of them, the Populus euphratica forest in Ejina , Inner Mongolia is the right place for you.

Ejina Euphrates Poplar Forest is one of the best remaining ancient desert poplar forest areas and features dazzling golden leaves, dreamy water reflections, running sheep, and boundless deserts with longed-for camel riding opportunities. It is a good place for both sunrise and sunset shoots.

With its advantageous position adjacent to Gansu Province, Ejina Euphrates Poplar Forest is usually combined with a trip along the legendary Silk Road . Traveling from Dunhuang to Zhangye via Jiayuguan and Ejina, with the mysterious Mogao Caves, desert landscapes, colorful landforms, and stunning golden leaves, you will have a rich touring experience.

11. Hangzhou — Next Best Place to Heaven

Renowned for its scenic beauty, Hangzhou is one of the most photogenic cities in China. In the 13th century, Marco Polo described Hangzhou as "the city of heaven" and "the finest and most splendid city in the world".

Hangzhou's most famous sight, West Lake , is considered one of the most beautiful sights in China. Each season offers picturesque scenes that will leave an ever-lasting impression.

The best time to go is spring (March to May). The lake, ancient buildings, and causeways decorated with flower blossoms are the theme of many elegant Chinese paintings.

Hangzhou is also a good place to learn about Chinese tea culture. You could visit a tea plantation to see how farmers pick tea leaves, learn the process of making tea, and taste a cup of China's most-adored tea. See our 5-Day Shanghai & Hangzhou with Watertown Tour

Also, read How to Plan a Hangzhou Tour .

12. The Yuanyang Terraced Fields — Steps to Heaven

"If you are a traveler, but have never been to Yuanyang , Yuanyang will feel sad for you; If you are a photographer but have never been to Yuanyang, God will feel sorry for you!"

There are many things that you know will never be surpassed once you see their beauty. And you will find Yuanyang's terraced fields are the most beautiful terraces in the world, once you have been there.

• Also, read China's Five Most Beautiful Rice Terraces .
• Recommended itinerary: 6-Day Jianshui and Yuanyang Tour

13. Jiuzhaigou — Colorful Alpine Lakes

Jiuzhaigou , in remote western China, has inspired dreams of a colorful fairyland among many travelers. Jiuzhaigou features multicolored lakes surrounded by vast mountain forests. These lakes change color throughout the day and year. The colors come from the reflections of surrounding mountainsides and algae and minerals in the lakes.

Fall is the most beautiful season in Jiuzhaigou, when the landscape changes color, providing a vivid backdrop of autumnal hues — an unspoiled, dazzling beauty rarely rivaled in China.

• 3-Day Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong Highlights Tour
• 6-Day Essential Chengdu and In-Depth Jiuzhaigou Tour
• 7-Day Chengdu, Mount Emei, and Jiuzhaigou Scenic Tour

14. Sanya — Warm Winter Escape

Located at the southern tip of China's Hainan Island, this tropical paradise is known as the "the Hawaii of China".

Sanya has the best beaches in China, and you will find plenty of resort choices at Yalong Bay, Dadonghai, and Sanya Bay. Wuzhizhou Island and West Island are paradises for diving enthusiasts.

What about walking on a suspension bridge or flying over the rainforest on a zipline? The tropical rainforests bring you choices of exciting and adventurous activities. Nanwan Monkey Island is especially popular among families with children.

Looking for a warm winter vacation? Our 5-Day Sanya Tour with the Best Beach ensures you uncompromised fun with the ocean, the beach, and the sun.

15. Xishuangbanna — Tropical and Exotic Charms

Remember the "Long March" of 15 Asian elephants in 2021?

Right, they came from Xishuangbanna — a pleasant place with an annual average temperature of about 20°C (68°F). It is a paradise of tropical plants, a kingdom of wild animals, and home to the Theravada Buddhist temples of China.

Nature lovers would be spoiled with a visit to the Tropical Botanical Garden in Xishuangbanna, which has the richest collection of species and the most plant-specific attractions anywhere in China.

Stilt-style Dai houses are dotted throughout every corner of the region. Take ethnic-culture-rich pictures and find yourself in a truly Southeast Asian atmosphere.

Last, but not least, local tourists rush to Xishuangbanna in winter to escape the cold further north. More flights are available, but you will find airfares are comparatively high during winter times.

What about a short hike in the tropical forest or a stay in a treehouse, relaxing in the oxygen-rich air? Or a chance to interact with the native Asian elephants and peacocks? Our 6-Day Xishuangbanna and Pu'er Tour gets you in touch with the rainforest.

Which One(s) to Visit?

These top 15 most beautiful places in China are excellent destinations that everyone would visit if they could. But, for the best experience, it is important that you choose the places to visit that best meets your travel needs at the right time for you.

Visit at the Right Time

These 15 places are suitable to travel all year round, but the best times are definitely April to May and September to early November when the weather is the most pleasant on average. There are some exceptions:

Winter Vacation:

• Sanya: Want somewhere sunny and warm for winter? This is a great place for a winter escape.
• The Yuanyang Terraced Fields: For great photos, try to visit between January and March when the terraces are irrigated with water.
• The Yellow Mountains: The snow-capped Yellow Mountains in winter are quite different from their legendary popularity in other seasons — more like a peaceful haven.

Summer Vacations:

• Tibet: It's the rainy season in Tibet during summertime, but there isn't much rain and temperatures are the most comfortable of the year. The annual Shoton Festival is around that time.
• If you want to avoid heat and enjoy a cool summer holiday, Jiuzhaigou, Lijiang, and western Sichuan are good options.

Busy Golden Weeks:

• Ejina Desert Polar Forest: To enjoy the very best of the golden poplar leaves, visit in early October during the National Day holiday in China (if you do not mind crowds).

No matter what season you are visiting China, our consultants will arrange a suitable itinerary for you to enjoy the beauty of China. All our tours can be customized based on your interests and requirements. Just contact us .

Visit These Beautiful Places with Us

It is hard to plan a trip to cover all these naturally beautiful places on your own. Our travel advisors can help you with an itinerary and personal advice. They can help you choose awesome places according to your interests, and plan the trip you want.

If you are planning to travel to these places, click on the links in the article for more information. Or contact us to tailor-make a tour according to your requirements. Or continue to read How to Plan a First Trip to China .

Here are two sample itineraries for inspiration:

• 11 Days China Classic Wonder Tour : the most popular destinations in China
• 14-Day China History and Scenery Discovery Tour : the most important historical destinations and extraordinary scenery destinations in China
• Find more ideas from our China tours .

• 13-Day A Broad Taste of China
• 9-Day Beyond the Golden Triangle
• 2-Week Private China Tour: Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai
• Best China Tours 2024/2025: Top Tours for First & Return Trips
• 11-Day Family Happiness
• 12-day Panda Keeper and Classic Wonders
• 13-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Dunhuang–Urumqi–Shanghai Tour
• 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery
• 14-Day Classic China Photo Tour
• 2-Week Riches of China
• 3-Week Must-See Places China Tour Including Holy Tibet
• How to Plan Your First Trip to China 2024/2025 — 7 Easy Steps
• Best (& Worst) Times to Visit China, Travel Tips (2024/2025)
• 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
• One Week in China - 4 Time-Smart Itineraries
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10 Most Amazing Destinations in East China

Eastern China is a world unto its own. It’s rich in history, with some towns going back 6,000 years. It has an ambiance that is designed to soothe and relax the soul. From picturesque water towns criss-crossed by canals filled with slow-moving water to spectacular mountain vistas, east China is a delight to all your senses. Once you’ve visited here, you’ll understand why some of the most visited tourist destinations in China can be found in this region.

10. Qingdao [SEE MAP]

Qingdao is a pretty resort city in Shandong province on the Yellow Sea. It’s a green city with pretty parks and the largest bathing beach in China. Because it was once a German concession, the older area of town has cobblestone streets and buildings that would fit right in in the old country. If you like beer, Qingdao is the place to drink it. Tsingtao (an old name for Qingdao) is located here; it’s China’s second largest brewery. You’ll want to see the pavilion at Zhan Chao beer because it’s the brewery’s logo. A huge red sculpture at May Fourth Square dominates the cityscape.

9. Wuzhen [SEE MAP]

A visit to a water town is simply a must for anyone visiting Shanghai and its environs. Just 140 km (87 miles) from Shanghai Wuzhen is a good choice since it’s a typical water town. Wuzhen is a pretty town, with black, white and grey stone houses and blue flagstone lanes. This small town is very picturesque with many bridges crossing the canals. Be on the lookout for the Bridge within a Bridge where two bridges come together, each visible through the arches of the other. You’ll travel under bridges when you take a cruise through the canals where you might see elderly women doing laundry.

8. Mount Putuo [SEE MAP]

Mount Putuo, located on an island in the East China Sea, is a site important to Chinese Buddhism. Known as Putuoshan in Chinese, it’s one of Buddhism’s four sacred mountains; it is a popular pilgrimage destination. Temples galore can be found on the island, though only about 30 are considered major temples, including the 10th century Puji Temple and Fayu Temple, the island’s second largest. If you get tired of visiting temples, Putuo has a couple of nice beaches, Hundred Step and Thousand Step. You can get to Putuo by ferry or, since bridges now connect Shanghai and Ningbo with Putuo, by bus.

7. Xitang [SEE MAP]

If you visit Xitang, expect to travel through this water town by – what else! – water. That’s because nine rivers cross through the city. Water, not streets, is the best way to get around the older part of town. This picturesque town, with its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasties buildings, is best known for its covered corridor. This covered walkway runs along the river for more than a half-mile and protects pedestrians from the elements. Trivia buffs: If you’ve seen Mission Impossible III you’ve seen Xitang since it’s featured in the closing minutes.

6. Mount Huang [SEE MAP]

If you want to impress the locals, refer to Mount Huang by its Chinese name, Huangshan (Yellow Mountain). Huangshan is one of the most scenic mountains in China; it’s widely photographed and the subject of many paintings. Mount Huang is not just one mountain; rather it’s a range of mountains with 72 peaks. The main ones are Lotus, Celestial and Bright. If you’re an early riser, take a cable car to one of the summits to see a glorious sunrise. If the sun doesn’t shine that day, you can look down at the Sea of Clouds, which lends a different kind of beauty to the landscape.

5. Zhouzhuang [SEE MAP]

Zhouzhuang, a water town 30 km (18 miles) southeast of Suzhou, is considered one of the top tourist attractions in east China. You’ll definitely want to ride a gondola through the canals to see well-preserved ancient houses with weeping willow trees hanging over them. You’ll likely pass under the Twin Bridges (Shule and Yang an), the most famous of the 14 bridges that span the rivers; the bridges are considered symbols of the town. You might also go under the Fu’an Bridge, an arched bridge with two towers that are now tea rooms. The Chengxu Taoist Temple is a top Taoist temple in the region.

4. Yangzhou [SEE MAP]

Centuries ago, Yangzhou, near Nanjing, was one of the wealthiest cities in China. Yangzhou is another scenic water town, where the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal, which connects Beijing and Hangzhou, cross. Besides the Grand Canal, attractions include the 5th century Daming Temple that was rebuilt after the Taiping Rebellion, and Slender West Lake that imitate the buildings of the more famous West Lake in Hangzhou. You’ll also not want to miss Hnanlinyuan Museum, which is the tomb of an early ruler; it contains a coffin on wheels. Besides merchant families, Yangzhou was famous for its scholars, so check out the scholar’s garden, He Yuan.

3. Hangzhou [SEE MAP]

There are many West Lakes inching, but the most famous can be found in Hangzhou, A boat ride on this very scenic lake to see numerous cultural and historical sites is a must. Hangzhou is the eastern terminus of the Grand Canal that starts 1100 km (700 miles) away in Beijing. The city has numerous temples, including one to Confucius, that are near the lake. You can get to Hangzhou by train or plane from Shanghai, but across the Hangzhou Bay Bridge is a unique way to get there. The 35-km (22-mile) long bridge shortened the travel time between the two cities considerably, making day trips more feasible.

2. Suzhou [SEE MAP]

Suzhou is undoubtedly the most famous water town in China. At one time, it was one of the largest cities in the world. This may be hard to believe today, as the old town area is a picture of serenity, with typical Chinese houses lining the canals that are crossed by even more picturesque bridges. Not only is Suzhou the silk capital of China, it’s equally famous for its gardens, including Lingering Garden, an important classical garden, and Humble Administrator’s Garden that took 18 years and an emperor’s ransom in silver to build. Take a walk along the ancient Ping Jiang Road that’s made of hand cut stones.

1. Shanghai [SEE MAP]

There are three things (at least!) you simply must do when you visit Shanghai , the largest city in China. First, you must visit the fabulous Shanghai Museum with thousands of artifacts spanning thousands of years of Chinese history. Second, you must walk along the Bund, the most famous walk in town. The Bund rises above the Huangpu River filled with ocean-going vessels; if you can, try to take a cruise at night when Shanghai is lit up like a Christmas tree. Third, you must visit the Oriental Pearl Tower, a Shanghai landmark that reaches 468 meters (1,535 feet) into the sky, offering outstanding views of the city and environs.

See also: Where to Stay in Shanghai

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• 1 Day Wuzhen Trip
• 2 Days City Tour
• 5 Days Hangzhou & Huangshan
• Leifeng Pagoda
• Meijiawu Tea Plantation

Lingyin Temple

Six harmonies pagoda.

• Tomb of General Yue Fei

Qinghefang Ancient Street

• Grand Canal
• Qiantang River
• National Silk Museum
• Performance: Enduring Memories of Hangzhou

Xixi National Wetland Park

Thousand islets lake.

• Wuzhen Water Town
• Xitang Water Town
• Mount Putuo
• Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City
• Zhangjiajie

12 Best Places to Visit in Hangzhou for First-time Visitors

Hangzhou , regarded as “Heaven on Earth”, is one of the most beautiful cities in China. The stunning natural landscapes, impressive historical sites, palatable Zhejiang cuisine , and more make it a popular tourist city. This article will introduce 12 best places to visit in Hangzhou for the first-time visitors to enjoy a pleasant trip there.

Longjing Village

Zhejiang Provincial Museum

Prince Bay Park

Former residence of hu xueyan, song dynasty town.

Nanxun Water Town

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China sees nearly 119 mln domestic tourist trips during Qingming holiday

Source: Xinhua

Editor: huaxia

2024-04-06 22:11:45

An aerial drone photo shows tourists visiting Beiwudang scenic area in Shizuishan City, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, April 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Feng Kaihua)

BEIJING, April 6 (Xinhua) -- China saw about 119 million domestic tourist trips made during the three-day Qingming Festival holiday, ending on Saturday, up 11.5 percent from the same period in 2019, showed data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Domestic tourism revenue during the period totaled 53.95 billion yuan (about 7.6 billion U.S. dollars), up 12.7 percent from the same period in 2019.

Qingming Festival, or Tomb-Sweeping Day, is an important occasion for Chinese to honor their ancestors. Many also spend the three-day holiday on leisure travel.

Self-driving, cycling, and trekking became popular modes of travel during the holiday this year, with short-distance and local trips being favored.

China saw 1.04 million inbound tourist trips and 992,000 outbound tourist trips made during the holiday, which were close to the number of trips made during the same period in 2019. Japan, Thailand, and South Korea were popular destinations for outbound travel. ■