China is a vast and captivating country that offers something for everyone. From ancient monuments and palaces to modern cities and stunning natural landscapes, there is a lot to explore in China. With its long history, diverse terrain, and varied cultures, it can be difficult to decide which places to visit. To help you out, here are our top 10 places you should visit in China.
10- Imperial Tombs
Photo Credit: UNESCO
The Imperial Tombs of China are some of the best places to visit in the country. From the Ming Dynasty to the Qing, these tombs are a testament to the grandiosity of the Chinese Empires. In Beijing, the Ming Dynasty Tombs are a must-see. Located in Changping, the 13 Ming tombs are surrounded by a beautiful landscape. The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, located in Shaanxi, is the largest of the imperial tombs. It is a marvel to behold, with its terracotta warriors and horses guarding the burial site.
The Eastern and Western Qing Tombs in Hebei are equally impressive, with their grand palaces and breathtaking architecture. The Yuling Tomb, also located in Hebei, is the tomb of the Kangxi Emperor and is a great example of Chinese imperial architecture. Further south, the Tombs of the Ming Dynasty are located in Nanjing and are a must visit for any traveler. Lastly, the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor, in Shaanxi, is the legendary home of the Yellow Emperor and is steeped in Chinese mythology. No matter where one goes in China, the Imperial Tombs offer an unparalleled experience.
9- Li Jiang River
Li Jiang River is a wondrous destination. From the stunning mountain vistas to the spectacular waterfalls, there is so much to explore. The Tiger Leaping Gorge is a must-see, with its dramatic cliffs and raging rapids. Hiking the trails is a great way to experience the scenery. A visit to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is also a must, with its incredible views and its cable car ride up the mountain. A trip to the Baisha Mural is also a must, to see the ancient artworks. For a more serene experience, take a cruise down the river and enjoy the views. Don’t forget to take a trip to the Shigu Ancient Town, with its traditional buildings and quaint streets.
Li Jiang River also has a number of beautiful villages to explore. A walk through the villages of Yuhu and Banyan Tree is a great way to see traditional architecture. Afterward, take a hike to Moon Hill for some stunning views. To get a closer look at the river, take a boat tour from Shuhe Ancient Town to Dragon Gate Gorge. For a unique experience, visit the First Bend of the Yangtze River, with its picturesque scenery and historical significance. Last but not least, don’t forget to take a trip to the White Water Terraces, a gorgeous UNESCO site with its crystal blue pools. Li Jiang River is truly a remarkable place to explore!
8- The Summer Palace
Photo Credit: Chinese History Digest
The Summer Palace in Beijing is a stunning destination for vacationers. Its sprawling grounds and breathtaking architecture provide a captivating atmosphere for all who come to visit. The Summer Palace houses a wealth of historical sites, such as the Long Corridor, Marble Boat, and the Hall of Dispelling Clouds. Strolling through the landscaped gardens, lush with trees and fragrant flowers, is an unforgettable experience. Guests can also take a tour of the Eastern Qing Tombs, located near the Summer Palace. The tombs are a solemn reminder of the past and offer a unique glimpse into the lives of the emperors of the Qing dynasty.
Visitors to the Summer Palace will find plenty of activities to enjoy. They can explore the Kunming Lake and the Longevity Hill, or take a boat ride and enjoy the views from the lake. People can also take part in activities such as dragon boat racing and kite flying, or take a traditional Chinese painting class. Be sure to check out the other attractions, such as the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, the Imperial Garden, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, for a truly memorable visit.
7- Leshan Giant Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. Located in the city of Leshan in Sichuan province, it is the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. Built during the Tang Dynasty, it stands at a staggering 71 meters tall. The statue was built to protect fishermen from the treacherous rapids of the Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers.
The statue is carved out of a cliff face, with the head and shoulders over 10 meters high. Its chest is 28 meters wide and its shoulders are 24 meters wide. Viewers can look up to the Giant Buddha and marvel at its intricate details and grandeur. The facial features are life-like, with the eyes and mouth appearing to be looking down at the viewer. It is said that the statue was constructed to be a symbol of peace and harmony between humans and nature.
6- Yellow Mountains
Photo Credit: China Travel Ca
Yellow Mountains offer a wide range of majestic sights and activities. From brilliant sunrises to hiking trails and hot springs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The most popular spot is the Huangshan Scenic Area, offering stunning views of the peaks and valleys. The Cloud Valley Temple is a must-see, with its ancient architecture and serene atmosphere. Cable cars provide thrilling rides up the mountain, and the Yuping Cable Car offers breathtaking views. Hikers can explore the trails and take in the natural beauty of the area.
The Sea of Clouds is one of the most spectacular sights of the Yellow Mountains. The area is known for its rolling peaks and valleys with fog and mist. The West Sea Grand Canyon offers stunning views of the deep ravines, and the hiking trails provide an unforgettable experience. Hot springs provide a relaxing respite from the rigors of the day. The Xihai Grand Canyon is a popular spot for photography, and Lotus Peak is an iconic sight. The sunsets offer a spectacular display of colors, and the night sky is filled with stars.
5- Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie is an amazing destination to visit in China that should be visited by all travelers. Located in the northwest of Hunan province, it is one of the most famous natural parks in the world. The unique landscape of towering sandstone pillars and lush forests will take your breath away. The remote mountain peaks, deep gorges, primeval forests and crystal-clear streams provide a perfect setting for exploring nature. This park is home to many rare species of plants and animals, and it is a great place to see the endangered Chinese Giant Salamander.
Zhangjiajie National Park is one of the best places to experience the incredible beauty of the Chinese countryside. You can hike or take a cable car to the summit of Huangshi Village for incredible views of the surrounding mountains. The picturesque Baofeng Lake and Tianzi Mountain are also popular attractions. The nearby glass bridge and Tianmen Mountain provide thrilling adventure activities. The nearby Baofeng Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in the world and is a great spot to take some unique photos.
4- The Bund
China is an incredible country with a wealth of stunning sights and attractions. For those looking to explore the country, the Bund in Shanghai is one of the best places to start. Located along the Huangpu River, the Bund is the city’s most iconic promenade. Here, visitors can admire the incredible architecture of the colonial-style buildings, while also taking in the stunning skyline of the modern skyscrapers that tower over the waterfront.
The Bund also offers a great selection of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, stopping at the various cafes and bars to sample local cuisine. Or, take a boat ride along the river and admire the views of the grandiose buildings from the water. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, the Bund provides plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and exploration. Take a walking tour and learn about the history of the area, or explore the nearby Old City and soak up the traditional Chinese culture.
3- The Terracotta Army
Photo Credit: Escape
Terracotta Army is one of the most famous attractions in China. Located in the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, near the city of Xi’an, it is the largest collection of terracotta sculptures in the world. It is an incredible sight with over 8,000 life-size figures of soldiers, horses, chariots, and other objects. It is a remarkable feat of ancient engineering, with each soldier individually crafted and painted. The army was discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers digging a well.
Since then, it has become a major tourist attraction, with tourists from all over the world flocking to the site. Visitors to the site can explore the three main pits of the army and view the various figures, as well as the newly-opened museum, which houses an exhibition of the excavation process. It is a must-see for anyone visiting China, as it gives a unique insight into the country’s ancient history. It is also a testament to the skill and artistry of the Qin dynasty artisans.
2- The Forbidden City
Photo Credit: West China Tour
One of the most iconic and awe-inspiring places to visit in China is the Forbidden City. Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City was the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties from 1420 to 1924. Built with a grand scale and intricate design, it is a symbol of the power and opulence of the ancient Chinese empire. With its red walls and towering gates, the Forbidden City is an awe-inspiring sight.
The Forbidden City is home to hundreds of courtyards and gardens, many of which are open to the public. Visitors can explore the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest building in the complex, as well as the Hall of Central Harmony, the Hall of Preserving Harmony, and the Palace of Heavenly Purity. There are also many museums, pavilions, and other buildings within the walls of the Forbidden City. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the city while strolling through the gardens and parks, or they can take a tour of the palace and learn about its history and culture.
1- Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an iconic symbol of China’s ancient history and a must-see destination for any traveler. Spanning a distance of over 8,800 km, the Great Wall weaves its way through spectacular mountain ranges and scenic valleys, offering breathtaking views of the countryside. Its construction began in the 7th century BC, and the wall was built to defend against the nomadic tribes of the north. Today, the Great Wall is one of the greatest man-made wonders of the world and a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Chinese.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are several sections of the wall that can be accessed by cable car, allowing visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views without the effort of a hike. With its breathtaking views, historical significance and architectural masterpiece, the Great Wall of China is an absolute must-see for any traveler to China.
