Overview:
China, with its ancient history, fascinating culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has been a top destination for travelers from all corners of the globe.
As the world’s fourth-largest country, China offers an intriguing blend of ancient wonders and modern marvels.
From the legendary Great Wall to the towering skylines of Shanghai, China has something for every traveler.
In this guide, we explore the best 15 tourist attractions in China, highlighting their historical and cultural significance, unique features, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to this incredible country.
Table of Contents
1. The Great Wall of China, Beijing
The Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Stretching over 13,000 miles, it is a symbol of ancient Chinese engineering and a testament to the nation’s resilience.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Constructed over several dynasties, particularly during the Ming Dynasty, the Great Wall was originally built as a defense mechanism against invasions.
Unique Features: The wall’s impressive length, steep climbs, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes make it a must-see attraction. Popular sections include Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling.
Best Time to Visit: Visit during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild, and the surrounding scenery is vibrant.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: The Great Wall is easily accessible from Beijing by bus, train, or private car. The Badaling section is the most visited and is well-served by public transport.
- Accommodation: Stay in Beijing and take a day trip to the Great Wall. Many hotels offer organized tours.
- Local Customs: Be respectful of the historical site, and wear comfortable shoes as the climb can be steep.
2. The Forbidden City, Beijing
The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, served as the seat of Chinese emperors for over 500 years. This vast palace has over 9,000 rooms and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Built during the Ming Dynasty in the early 15th century, the Forbidden City was the political and ceremonial center of Chinese imperial rule.
Unique Features: Visitors can marvel at the grand halls, intricate wooden carvings, and beautiful courtyards that reflect the opulence of ancient China. The Palace Museum houses countless treasures from China’s dynastic history.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit. Winter can be cold, but the lack of crowds allows for a more intimate experience.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is easily accessible by subway, taxi, or bus.
- Accommodation: Numerous hotels are available nearby, ranging from luxury options to budget-friendly stays.
- Local Customs: It’s customary to show respect at this historical site. Avoid loud behavior, and don’t touch artifacts.
3. Terracotta Army, Xi’an
The Terracotta Army is one of China’s most important archaeological discoveries. This army of life-sized clay soldiers, buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang, was meant to protect him in the afterlife.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Dating back to the 3rd century BC, the Terracotta Army is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers insight into China’s early dynastic rule and funerary practices.
Unique Features: The army consists of over 8,000 soldiers, horses, and chariots, each with unique facial expressions and armor, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of the time.
Best Time to Visit: Visit from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor exploration.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Xi’an is well connected by air and train. The Terracotta Army is located about an hour outside the city and can be reached by bus or taxi.
- Accommodation: Xi’an offers a variety of accommodation options, from hostels to five-star hotels.
- Local Customs: Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash. Be mindful of the fact that this is a cultural heritage site.
4. The Bund, Shanghai
The Bund is Shanghai’s most famous waterfront area, where historic colonial-era buildings line the western bank of the Huangpu River. It offers a stunning contrast between the old and new sides of Shanghai.
Historical and Cultural Significance: The Bund was once the hub of international trade in China during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it serves as a reminder of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past.
Unique Features: The promenade along the Bund offers unbeatable views of the modern Pudong skyline, featuring the Oriental Pearl Tower and other futuristic skyscrapers.
Best Time to Visit: Visit during the cooler months of spring and autumn. Nighttime offers spectacular views of the illuminated skyline.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: The Bund is easily accessible via the Shanghai Metro. Taxis and buses are also convenient.
- Accommodation: Shanghai has a wide range of hotels near the Bund, from luxury brands to budget-friendly options.
- Local Customs: Take time to stroll along the promenade. Evening cruises on the Huangpu River offer a unique perspective of the skyline.
5. The Potala Palace, Lhasa
The Potala Palace, located in Tibet’s capital city of Lhasa, is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama for centuries.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Built in the 7th century, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Its red and white facade is instantly recognizable.
Unique Features: The palace stands at an elevation of 12,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of Lhasa. Inside, visitors can explore various chapels, stupas, and the Dalai Lama’s former quarters.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is relatively mild. Lhasa experiences extreme cold during the winter months.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Lhasa can be reached by plane or train from major Chinese cities. However, a special Tibet Travel Permit is required for foreign travelers.
- Accommodation: Hotels in Lhasa range from budget to luxury, many offering traditional Tibetan decor and amenities.
- Local Customs: Respect local customs, including removing shoes when entering religious sites and not touching Buddha statues.
6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is famous for its towering sandstone pillars, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. This surreal landscape is a hiker’s dream.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Designated as China’s first national forest park in 1982, Zhangjiajie is a UNESCO Global Geopark and a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Unique Features: The park’s main attraction is the towering sandstone pillars, some of which rise over 3,000 feet. Visitors can explore the scenic walkways, glass bridges, and cable cars that offer spectacular views.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is cool and the park is less crowded.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Zhangjiajie is accessible by train and plane from major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Shuttle buses within the park make it easy to explore.
- Accommodation: There are numerous hotels and guesthouses near the park entrance.
- Local Customs: Wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for steep climbs. Respect the natural environment by not littering.
7. Jiuzhaigou Valley, Sichuan
Jiuzhaigou Valley is a stunning nature reserve known for its crystal-clear lakes, multi-tiered waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. It is often referred to as “Fairyland on Earth.”
Historical and Cultural Significance: Jiuzhaigou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a World Biosphere Reserve. The valley is home to Tibetan villages, adding a cultural dimension to the natural beauty.
Unique Features: The vivid blue and green lakes, surrounded by autumn foliage or winter snow, create a picture-perfect landscape. Highlights include the Five Flower Lake and Nuorilang Waterfall.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September-November) is the best time to visit, as the changing leaves create a spectacular backdrop. Spring is also pleasant, with blooming flowers.
Travel Tips (continued):
- Transportation: The nearest airport is Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, about 88 kilometers from the valley. Buses and taxis are available to take you to the park.
- Accommodation: Hotels and guesthouses near the park entrance cater to different budgets, offering easy access to the scenic area.
- Local Customs: When visiting Tibetan villages in the valley, respect the local customs, such as not pointing at religious statues and asking for permission before taking photos.
8. The Summer Palace, Beijing
The Summer Palace, an imperial garden in Beijing, is one of China’s best-preserved royal parks. It was once the retreat for the Chinese royal family during the Qing Dynasty.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Built in the mid-18th century and expanded in the 19th century, the Summer Palace became the primary residence of Empress Dowager Cixi.
Unique Features: The park’s main attractions include the beautiful Longevity Hill, Kunming Lake, and the iconic Marble Boat. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake or stroll through the ornate halls and pavilions.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit the Summer Palace, as the weather is pleasant and the gardens are at their most beautiful.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: The Summer Palace is easily accessible via the Beijing subway, with buses and taxis also serving the area.
- Accommodation: Stay in central Beijing and make a day trip to the Summer Palace. Hotels of all categories are available nearby.
- Local Customs: As with all historical sites, maintain a respectful attitude, especially in the halls and temples.
9. Li River, Guilin
The Li River is famous for its breathtaking karst landscapes, which have inspired countless Chinese poets and artists over the centuries. A river cruise through this stunning scenery is a must-do activity in Guilin.
Historical and Cultural Significance: The Li River has long been celebrated for its ethereal beauty, with its mist-covered hills and serene waters.
Unique Features: The river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers some of the most picturesque views in China, including limestone peaks, terraced fields, and traditional fishing villages.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is warm, and the river is at its fullest, creating the best conditions for a scenic cruise.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Guilin is easily accessible by air, train, or bus. River cruises can be booked through local tour operators.
- Accommodation: Stay in Guilin or the charming town of Yangshuo, where hotels range from luxury resorts to budget hostels.
- Local Customs: When visiting the local fishing villages, be mindful of the traditions and respectful when interacting with the villagers.
10. Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), Anhui
Mount Huangshan, also known as Yellow Mountain, is one of China’s most famous and scenic mountain ranges. Its mist-shrouded peaks, ancient pines, and hot springs have drawn visitors for centuries.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Mount Huangshan has been a subject of Chinese art and literature since ancient times. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds spiritual significance in Chinese Taoism.
Unique Features: The mountain is renowned for its dramatic granite peaks, often covered in mist, and its centuries-old twisted pine trees. Visitors can hike the scenic paths or take a cable car for breathtaking views.
Best Time to Visit: Visit in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its best. The winter months offer a unique, snow-covered landscape.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Mount Huangshan can be reached by bus or train from nearby cities like Hangzhou or Shanghai. Cable cars make the ascent easier for less experienced hikers.
- Accommodation: Hotels and guesthouses are available at the base of the mountain, and there are also a few accommodations at higher elevations for those wanting an early start to their hikes.
- Local Customs: Respect the natural environment by staying on marked paths and not littering. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the often steep and uneven trails.
11. West Lake, Hangzhou
West Lake in Hangzhou is one of China’s most picturesque spots, famous for its tranquil waters, lush gardens, and pagodas. It has been the inspiration for Chinese poets and painters for centuries.
Historical and Cultural Significance: West Lake has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 and has long been a symbol of China’s natural beauty.
Unique Features: Highlights of West Lake include the Broken Bridge, the Leifeng Pagoda, and the lotus-covered Su Causeway. The lake’s calm waters reflect the surrounding greenery and traditional pavilions.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit West Lake, as the weather is mild, and the flowers and trees are in full bloom.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Hangzhou is well-connected by high-speed rail from cities like Shanghai. Public buses and taxis are available to take you to West Lake.
- Accommodation: Hotels near West Lake range from luxury accommodations to affordable options, many offering scenic lake views.
- Local Customs: Take time to stroll around the lake and visit the surrounding temples and pagodas. Respect local customs, especially in religious sites.
12. The Giant Panda Research Base, Chengdu
Chengdu’s Giant Panda Research Base is one of the best places to see China’s beloved giant pandas in a natural setting. This conservation facility focuses on breeding and research to protect the endangered species.
Historical and Cultural Significance: The giant panda is a symbol of China and is considered a national treasure. The research base plays a vital role in the global effort to protect and conserve these unique animals.
Unique Features: Visitors can observe pandas in different stages of life, from playful cubs to adults.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is in the early morning, as the pandas are most active during feeding times. The base is open year-round.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Chengdu is easily accessible by air and train. The research base is located just outside the city and can be reached by taxi or bus.
- Accommodation: Chengdu offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget hostels, many of which offer panda-themed rooms.
- Local Customs: Be quiet and respectful around the pandas to avoid disturbing them. Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash.
13. Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yunnan
Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest river canyons in the world, offering dramatic views of the Jinsha River and the towering peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. It’s a paradise for adventurous hikers.
Historical and Cultural Significance: The gorge gets its name from a legend in which a tiger is said to have leaped across the narrowest section of the gorge.
Unique Features: The gorge is known for its steep cliffs, rushing river, and breathtaking vistas. Hiking trails along the gorge provide an up-close view of the rugged terrain and local wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to hike Tiger Leaping Gorge is from May to October, when the weather is mild, and the trails are at their best.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: The nearest city is Lijiang, which is well-connected by air and bus. From Lijiang, you can take a bus or taxi to the trailhead.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses along the hiking route offer basic but comfortable accommodations for travelers.
- Local Customs: When visiting local Naxi villages, respect their customs and traditions, and ask for permission before taking photos.
14. The Silk Road, Gansu and Xinjiang
The ancient Silk Road was once the main trade route between China and the West, stretching from Xi’an to the Mediterranean.
Historical and Cultural Significance: The Silk Road was not only a trade route but also a conduit for cultural exchange, bringing new ideas, technologies, and religions to China. Key stops along the route include the Mogao Caves and the ancient city of Dunhuang.
Unique Features: Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient cities, Buddhist temples, and desert landscapes that were once part of this legendary trade route.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to explore the Silk Road is from May to October, as the weather is more temperate, avoiding the extreme cold of winter and the sweltering heat of summer.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Xi’an, the starting point of the Silk Road, is well-connected by air and rail. From there, travelers can take buses or private cars to explore key sites along the route.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and desert camps can be found along the Silk Road, particularly in cities like Dunhuang and Kashgar.
- Local Customs: Respect the customs of the local ethnic groups, including the Uyghur people, by dressing modestly and being mindful of religious sites.
15. Giant Buddha of Leshan, Sichuan
The Giant Buddha of Leshan is a monumental statue carved into a cliff face, representing Maitreya Buddha and standing over 70 meters tall.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Built during the Tang Dynasty in the 8th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site symbolizes Buddhist devotion and showcases ancient engineering prowess.
Unique Features: Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and the statue’s serene expression, with stunning views of the confluence of the Min, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor exploration.
Travel Tips:
- Transportation: Leshan is easily accessible from Chengdu by train or bus, making it a convenient day trip.
- Accommodation: Various hotels and guesthouses are available in Leshan, catering to different budgets.
- Local Customs: Show respect when visiting the site, as it is a significant religious monument. Be mindful of your behavior and dress appropriately.
Also Read: Best Tourist Attractions In Thailand
Conclusion
China is a land of contrasts, where ancient history and modern innovation coexist. Its top tourist attractions offer visitors a journey through time, from the majestic Great Wall to the serene beauty of West Lake.
Whether you are an adventurer seeking natural wonders or a history buff eager to explore ancient palaces, China has something for every traveler.
As you plan your trip, remember to respect the local customs, embrace the rich diversity of cultures, and take the time to immerse yourself in the stories that each landmark has to offer.
Whether you are gazing at the grandeur of the Forbidden City or hiking the dramatic trails of Zhangjiajie, China promises an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit China?
The best time to visit China depends on the region. Generally, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather across the country.
2. Do I need a visa to travel to China?
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter China. You should apply for a tourist visa (L visa) at your local Chinese embassy or consulate before your trip. Some regions, like Hong Kong, have different visa policies.
3. Is it easy to travel around China?
Yes, China has an extensive and modern transportation network. High-speed trains, domestic flights, and buses make it easy to travel between cities.
4. Are English-speaking guides available at tourist attractions?
At most major tourist attractions, especially in cities like Beijing and Shanghai, English-speaking guides are available. It’s a good idea to book a guide in advance if you prefer one.
5. How can I stay connected while traveling in China?
You can purchase a local SIM card with data or use portable Wi-Fi devices for internet access. Keep in mind that some foreign websites and apps may be restricted in China, so it’s helpful to download a VPN before your trip.
6. What cultural practices should I be aware of when visiting China?
When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly and avoid loud behavior. It’s customary to offer small gifts or compliments when visiting someone’s home.