When I first landed in Beijing, I expected only skyscrapers and concrete jungles, yet within hours, I was stepping through a 14th-century gate into the Forbidden City, surrounded by imperial grandeur that felt worlds away from the modern metro I’d just exited. That’s the magic of China: a country where ancient dynasties meet futuristic cities, where misty karst mountains rise beside bustling food markets, and where every region offers something utterly unique.
This guide covers the top 10 places to visit in China, whether you’re planning a week-long whirlwind or a three-week deep dive. From iconic UNESCO sites to hidden gems tucked away in remote provinces, these destinations showcase the best of what China has to offer. You’ll find practical travel tips, the best times to visit, how to navigate between locations, and insider advice to help you make the most of each stop.
Quick Reference: Top 10 places to visit in China at a Glance
| Rank | Destination | Region/Province | Best Time to Visit | Why Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Beijing & Great Wall | Beijing | April-May, Sept-Oct | Imperial palaces, iconic wall sections, cultural heart |
| 2 | Xi’an | Shaanxi | April-May, Sept-Oct | Terracotta Warriors, Silk Road history |
| 3 | Shanghai | Shanghai | March-May, Sept-Nov | Modern skyline, colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife |
| 4 | Zhangjiajie | Hunan | April-May, Sept-Oct | Avatar-like pillar mountains, glass bridges |
| 5 | Guilin & Yangshuo | Guangxi | April-May, Sept-Oct | Stunning karst landscapes, Li River cruises |
| 6 | Chengdu | Sichuan | March-June, Sept-Nov | Giant pandas, spicy cuisine, laid-back culture |
| 7 | Jiuzhaigou Valley | Sichuan | May-June, Sept-Oct | Turquoise lakes, waterfalls, pristine nature |
| 8 | Lijiang & Tiger Leaping Gorge | Yunnan | March-May, Sept-Nov | Ancient town charm, dramatic canyon hikes |
| 9 | Hangzhou | Zhejiang | March-May, Sept-Nov | West Lake serenity, tea culture, gardens |
| 10 | Kashgar | Xinjiang | May-June, Sept-Oct | Silk Road culture, bazaars, Central Asian flavor |
Why Visit China Now
China offers an unmatched blend of experiences that few countries can rival. The diversity here is staggering: you can explore 5,000 years of civilization through ancient temples and imperial cities, trek through otherworldly landscapes that inspired fantasy films, sample some of the world’s most sophisticated cuisines, and witness the cutting edge of modern urban development, all in one trip.
Recent infrastructure improvements have made travel within China remarkably accessible. The high-speed rail network connects major cities in hours rather than days, making multi-city itineraries both practical and affordable. International flight connections have expanded, and domestic tourism has opened up previously remote regions with better roads, accommodations, and facilities.
Common concerns about traveling in China (language barriers, internet access, payment systems) are easier to navigate than ever. Translation apps work offline, international hotels and tourist sites often have English-speaking staff, and payment options have diversified beyond mobile-only systems. While a VPN helps with familiar apps and websites, the country’s infrastructure makes independent travel surprisingly smooth.
Now, let’s dive into the top 10 places to visit in China and discover what makes each destination unmissable.
Top 10 Places to See in China
1. Beijing & The Great Wall: China’s Political and Cultural Heart
Why It’s Special
Beijing stands as China’s political, cultural, and historical epicenter. This is where emperors ruled from the Forbidden City, where modern China was declared in Tiananmen Square, and where the Great Wall snakes across mountain ridges just an hour from the city center. The capital seamlessly blends ancient imperial grandeur with contemporary Chinese life, from morning tai chi in temple courtyards to cutting-edge art districts in repurposed factories.
Top Attractions & Highlights
The Forbidden City remains the crown jewel, a vast complex of nearly 1,000 buildings that housed 24 emperors across the Ming and Qing dynasties. Arrive early to beat the crowds and allow at least three hours to explore. The Temple of Heaven, where emperors performed rituals for good harvests, showcases stunning circular architecture and offers a glimpse into morning life as locals practice calligraphy, play chess, and sing opera in the surrounding park.
For the Great Wall, the Mutianyu section offers the best balance of authenticity, restoration, and accessibility. It’s less crowded than Badaling but still features impressive watchtowers and dramatic mountain views. The cable car saves energy for walking the wall itself, and the toboggan ride down adds a fun element. More adventurous travelers can hike wilder sections like Jiankou or Jinshanling, though these require more preparation and fitness.
Don’t miss the Summer Palace, a sprawling lakeside retreat with ornate pavilions and a famous marble boat. The hutong neighborhoods (traditional alleyway communities) around Nanluoguxiang and the Drum Tower offer intimate glimpses of old Beijing life, though increasing commercialization means venturing to quieter hutongs rewards you with more authentic experiences.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the most comfortable weather, with clear skies perfect for Great Wall visits and outdoor sightseeing. Summer brings heat and crowds, while winter can be brutally cold but offers fewer tourists and occasional snow-dusted wall vistas that are hauntingly beautiful.
Plan for at least four days in Beijing: one day for the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, one for the Great Wall, one for the Summer Palace and hutongs, and one for temples and additional sites.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Beijing Capital International Airport and the newer Daxing International Airport connect to the city via efficient Airport Express trains. Within Beijing, the subway system is extensive, affordable, and English-friendly. Buy a rechargeable transportation card for convenience across subway and buses.
For the Great Wall, organized tours offer convenience, but independent travelers can take public buses (877 to Mutianyu) or arrange private drivers through hotels. Book Great Wall tickets online in advance during peak season.
Local Tips & Cautions
Arrive at major sites like the Forbidden City right when they open to avoid massive tour groups. Bring cash for smaller vendors in hutongs, though most places accept mobile payments. Air quality can vary significantly, so check pollution levels and consider wearing a mask on heavily polluted days.
Nearby Gems
The 798 Art District showcases contemporary Chinese art in a former industrial complex. The Lama Temple offers one of Beijing’s most active Buddhist worship sites. For a unique experience, attend a Peking Opera performance or watch an acrobatics show.
2. Xi’an: Gateway to Ancient China and the Terracotta Warriors
Why It’s Special
Xi’an served as the capital for 13 dynasties spanning over 1,000 years, making it one of China’s most historically significant cities. The Terracotta Warriors, discovered by farmers in 1974, remain one of archaeology’s greatest finds: thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. Beyond the warriors, Xi’an’s ancient city walls, Muslim Quarter, and position as the eastern terminus of the Silk Road create a fascinating cultural crossroads.
Top Attractions & Highlights
The Terracotta Army is simply astonishing. Standing in Pit 1 facing thousands of individually crafted warriors, horses, and chariots creates a profound connection to China’s first emperor and the artisans who created this underground army 2,200 years ago. Pits 2 and 3 offer different troop formations, while the museum displays bronze chariots and explains the excavation process. Hire a knowledgeable guide or use an audio guide to fully appreciate the historical context and ongoing archaeological work.
Xi’an’s city walls, some of the best-preserved in China, encircle the old city for 14 kilometers. Rent a bicycle and ride the entire circuit for unique perspectives of old and new Xi’an meeting at the wall’s edge. The Muslim Quarter pulses with energy, especially at night, when food vendors grill lamb skewers and serve hand-pulled noodles amid the call to prayer from the Great Mosque. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty Buddhist structure, offers insight into the monk Xuanzang’s journey to India for Buddhist scriptures.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Spring and autumn provide ideal weather for exploring outdoor sites. Summers get hot and crowded, while winters are cold but manageable with fewer tourists. Two to three days allows time for the Terracotta Warriors (half to full day), city wall and Muslim Quarter exploration, and additional historical sites.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Xi’an Xianyang International Airport connects to major Chinese cities and some international destinations. The high-speed train from Beijing takes around 4.5 hours, making it an excellent rail connection. Within the city, the metro serves major tourist areas, though taxis and ride-sharing apps are affordable for reaching the Terracotta Warriors (about 40 minutes from downtown).
Public buses serve the warriors, but most travelers prefer organized tours or private transportation due to convenience. Book Terracotta Warrior tickets online to skip queues.
Local Tips & Cautions
Visit the Terracotta Warriors early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tour group times. In the Muslim Quarter, be respectful of religious customs and avoid visiting during prayer times at the mosque. Try local specialties like roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), biangbiang noodles, and yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread).
Nearby Gems
Mount Huashan, about 120 kilometers east, offers one of China’s most dramatic mountain hikes with cliff-edge plank walks and precipitous staircases. The Han Yangling Mausoleum displays miniature terracotta figures from an earlier dynasty. Cycling through rural villages outside Xi’an provides glimpses of traditional farming life.
3. Shanghai: Where East Meets West in Dazzling Style
Why It’s Special
Shanghai embodies modern China’s ambition and glamour while preserving fascinating layers of history. The Bund showcases colonial-era architecture across the Huangpu River from Pudong’s futuristic skyline, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower (China’s tallest building). This is China’s financial and fashion capital, a city that never stops evolving, where you can explore 1920s art deco buildings, cutting-edge museums, tranquil gardens, and some of Asia’s best dining scenes.
Top Attractions & Highlights
Walking the Bund at sunset captures Shanghai’s essence: European-style buildings from the city’s concession era illuminated against Pudong’s neon-lit skyscrapers. Cross the river to ascend the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck for vertiginous views from the world’s second-tallest building. The Shanghai Museum houses exceptional Chinese art and antiquities with well-curated English explanations.
The French Concession’s tree-lined streets, art galleries, boutiques, and cafes offer a completely different Shanghai vibe, perfect for leisurely afternoon wandering. Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden from the Ming Dynasty, provides a tranquil escape amid the city’s bustle, though arrive early to avoid crowds. The adjacent bazaar area sells souvenirs and snacks in a maze of traditional architecture.
Tianzifang, a labyrinthine arts and crafts enclave in a former residential area, feels less commercialized than similar districts. For contemporary art, M50 Art District and the Power Station of Art showcase Chinese and international works. Evening river cruises offer spectacular skyline views, while acrobatic shows demonstrate incredible Chinese performance traditions.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather. Summer brings heat, humidity, and higher prices, while winter can be chilly and gray. Three to four days allows comprehensive exploration: one day for the Bund and waterfront areas, one for museums and gardens, one for the French Concession and shopping districts, and time for day trips.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Shanghai has two major airports: Pudong International (PVG) for most international flights and Hongqiao (SHA) for many domestic routes and some international flights. The Maglev train from Pudong reaches 430 km/h, connecting the airport to the metro system in eight minutes. High-speed trains connect Shanghai to Beijing (around 5 hours), Xi’an, Hangzhou, and dozens of other cities.
Shanghai’s metro system is extensive, efficient, and English-friendly. Get a transportation card for easy access across metro, buses, and ferries. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available, though traffic can be congested.
Local Tips & Cautions
Shanghai caters well to international travelers with widespread English signage and staff at major hotels and attractions. However, prices are notably higher than other Chinese cities, especially for dining and accommodations. Make reservations for popular restaurants, particularly for Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) at Din Tai Fung or Jia Jia Tang Bao.
Dress code matters more here than elsewhere in China, especially for upscale restaurants and bars. The city’s fashion-forward culture means you’ll see remarkably stylish locals, and dressing up is part of the Shanghai experience.
Nearby Gems
Water towns like Zhujiajiao and Tongli offer charming canal scenery within day-trip distance, though they can feel touristy. The Propaganda Poster Art Centre displays fascinating Cultural Revolution materials. For nightlife, the Bund and French Concession host excellent cocktail bars and rooftop venues.
4. Zhangjiajie: Avatar Mountains Come to Life
Why It’s Special
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park gained international fame as inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar film. The reality is no less spectacular: thousands of quartzite sandstone pillars rise like stone towers from lush valleys, creating a landscape that seems pulled from fantasy. This is one of the top 10 best places to visit in China for nature lovers, offering dramatic scenery, thrilling walkways, and hiking trails through primeval forests.
Top Attractions & Highlights
The Wulingyuan Scenic Area encompasses several sections. The Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (formerly Southern Sky Column) stands as the park’s most photographed pillar. The Glass Bridge, stretching 430 meters across a canyon 300 meters above the valley floor, offers stomach-churning views for those brave enough to walk its transparent deck. The Bailong Elevator, a glass elevator built into a cliff face, ascends 326 meters in under two minutes for spectacular views.
Tianmen Mountain, separate from the main forest park, features the Heaven’s Gate cave, a natural hole in the mountain reached by a 999-step staircase. The cliff-edge glass skywalk wraps around the mountain’s peak for vertiginous views. The cable car journey up is one of the world’s longest, offering stunning panoramas.
Golden Whip Stream provides a gentler experience, a peaceful valley walk alongside a clear stream through the forest. Tianzi Mountain offers expansive views across the pillar forest, particularly stunning at sunrise when mist weaves between the peaks. The park’s extensive trail network allows multi-day hikes for those wanting deeper wilderness experiences.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the best combination of clear weather and stunning views. Summer brings rain and crowds but also lush greenery. Winter can be cold with possible snow that creates ethereal scenes, though some facilities close. Fog is common year-round, which can obscure views but also creates mystical atmospheres.
Plan at least two full days, ideally three, to properly explore both the main forest park and Tianmen Mountain. The park is vast, and spending time hiking away from the main tourist clusters reveals quieter natural beauty.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport connects to major Chinese cities. High-speed trains from Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou require connections but offer scenic journeys. From Zhangjiajie city, buses and taxis reach the park entrance in about 40 minutes.
Inside the park, shuttle buses connect major sites. The multi-day pass provides flexibility to explore at your own pace. Cable cars, elevators, and escalators help navigate the dramatic terrain, though they cost extra beyond the entrance ticket.
Local Tips & Cautions
Book park tickets and accommodations in advance, especially during Chinese holidays when crowds surge. Staying inside the park at Zhangjiajie Village provides early morning access before tour groups arrive and allows catching sunrise from the mountaintops.
Weather changes rapidly, so bring layers and rain gear. Trails involve significant stair climbing, so reasonable fitness helps. Avoid weekends and national holidays if possible. Photography enthusiasts should bring telephoto lenses for distant pillars and wide-angle for expansive scenes.
Nearby Gems
The Tianmen Fox Fairy Show, an outdoor evening performance on a mountain stage, combines music, acrobatics, and multimedia effects. The Baofeng Lake offers boat trips through karst mountain scenery on a quieter scale than Guilin. Local Tujia minority culture provides unique architectural and culinary experiences in villages outside the main park.
5. Guilin & Yangshuo: Karst Landscapes and River Life
Why It’s Special
The karst limestone peaks around Guilin and Yangshuo have inspired Chinese poets and painters for centuries. These sugarloaf mountains rise dramatically from flat plains, creating scenery so iconic it appears on the 20 yuan note. The Li River cruise between Guilin and Yangshuo floats past this landscape, where water buffalo graze beside mist-wrapped peaks and fishermen pole bamboo rafts with trained cormorants. This is classic Chinese scenery come to life.
Top Attractions & Highlights
The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo (about 4 hours) showcases the region’s best karst scenery. Book tickets in advance and choose upper deck seating for unobstructed photography. The journey passes iconic landmarks like Nine Horse Fresco Hill and Xingping, where the 20 yuan note scene appears. Some travelers prefer starting in Yangshuo and taking bamboo rafts on shorter river sections for a more intimate experience.
Yangshuo itself, a small town surrounded by karst peaks, offers the perfect base for exploration. West Street buzzes with restaurants, bars, and shops but can feel overly touristy. Venture beyond to rent bicycles and pedal through rice paddies and farming villages at the base of the peaks. The Yulong River bamboo rafting provides a peaceful, scenic float through countryside. Moon Hill, a limestone peak with a moon-shaped hole, rewards climbers with panoramic views.
Reed Flute Cave near Guilin displays dramatic limestone formations illuminated with colored lights, creating an underground wonderland. The Longji Rice Terraces, about two hours from Guilin, cascade down mountain slopes in spectacular agricultural artistry. Visit during spring (water-filled terraces reflecting the sky) or autumn (golden harvest time) for the best views.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
April to May and September to October offer ideal weather for river cruises and outdoor activities. Summer brings rain that can affect river levels and visibility, though the green landscape is lush. Winter is cool but crowds are minimal and prices drop. Aim for at least three days: one for the Li River cruise, one to two days exploring Yangshuo’s countryside, and optional time for Guilin’s caves or rice terraces.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Guilin Liangjiang International Airport serves major Chinese cities. High-speed trains connect Guilin to Guangzhou (around 3 hours), making it accessible from Hong Kong as well. Buses run frequently between Guilin and Yangshuo (90 minutes). In Yangshuo, bicycles, electric scooters, and motorcycles provide the best freedom for exploring, available for rent everywhere.
Local Tips & Cautions
Book Li River cruises through official channels to avoid scams with inferior boats. In Yangshuo, accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury riverside resorts. Staying outside West Street provides quieter evenings while remaining walkable to restaurants.
The Impression Liu Sanjie evening show, directed by Zhang Yimou (of Beijing Olympics ceremony fame), uses the Li River as a stage with karst peaks as backdrop, though opinions vary on whether the ticket price justifies the experience. Local specialties like beer fish and Guilin rice noodles are worth trying.
Nearby Gems
Xingping, a small town along the Li River, offers the same dramatic scenery with far fewer tourists than Yangshuo. The ancient villages around Yangshuo, such as Fuli and Jiuxian, preserve traditional architecture and crafts. Rock climbing has become popular around Yangshuo, with hundreds of bolted routes on the limestone karst.
6. Chengdu: Pandas, Spice, and Sichuan Soul
Why It’s Special
Chengdu represents a different side of China: laid-back, teahouse-loving, and famous for face-changingly spicy food. This is the capital of Sichuan Province, home to giant pandas and a cuisine that ignites taste buds with its signature málà (numbing and spicy) flavor profile. Beyond the pandas, Chengdu offers Buddhist temples, ancient irrigation systems, vibrant nightlife, and a culture that values leisure and pleasure. It’s a city where people still spend afternoons in bamboo chairs at outdoor teahouses, and where hotpot restaurants fill nightly with locals celebrating life.
Top Attractions & Highlights
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the main draw for many visitors. Arrive early morning (around 8 am) when pandas are most active and feeding. Watch adults munching bamboo, cubs playing and tumbling, and red pandas (equally adorable) scampering through their habitats. The facility’s focus on conservation and breeding provides reassurance about animal welfare compared to traditional zoos.
Wenshu Temple, a well-preserved Buddhist monastery, offers tranquility amid the city’s bustle. The adjoining teahouse and vegetarian restaurant let you experience local tea culture. Jinli Ancient Street reconstructs traditional architecture filled with snack vendors, craft shops, and Sichuan opera performances, though it’s very touristy. For a more authentic vibe, explore Kuanzhai Alley’s restored courtyard homes, now housing boutique shops and restaurants.
The Leshan Giant Buddha, about 2 hours from Chengdu, is the world’s largest stone Buddha statue, carved into a cliff face during the Tang Dynasty. The massive figure overlooks the confluence of three rivers, and walking down the cliff stairs beside it emphasizes its remarkable 71-meter height. Nearby Mount Emei, one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains, offers temples, hiking trails, and macaque monkeys along forested paths.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Chengdu has a moderate climate year-round, though summer can be hot and humid. Spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) are most pleasant. Pandas are active year-round but especially playful after their morning feeding. Allow three to four days for Chengdu itself plus day trips to Leshan and potentially Mount Emei.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is one of China’s major hubs with extensive domestic and international connections. High-speed trains connect to Xi’an, Chongqing, Kunming, and other cities. Chengdu’s metro system continues expanding and covers most tourist areas efficiently. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and affordable.
Local Tips & Cautions
Book panda base tickets online to save queuing time. For the best panda viewing experience, arrive right when the base opens. If you can’t tolerate spicy food, communicate this clearly at restaurants, though note that Sichuan cuisine’s complexity extends beyond heat into layers of flavor worth experiencing.
Sichuan opera performances, particularly the famous face-changing acts where performers switch masks instantaneously, offer fascinating cultural entertainment. Most shows include hotpot restaurants, combining dinner with performance. The Wide and Narrow Alleys area, while commercialized, comes alive in the evening with music and atmosphere.
Nearby Gems
Dujiangyan, an ancient irrigation system still functioning after 2,000 years, demonstrates remarkable engineering and is often combined with panda base visits. The Sanxingdui Museum displays mysterious bronze artifacts from an ancient Shu Kingdom culture, fundamentally challenging narratives of Chinese civilization. Qingcheng Mountain offers Taoist temples and hiking near Dujiangyan.
7. Jiuzhaigou Valley: Nature’s Most Vibrant Palette
Why It’s Special
Jiuzhaigou Valley feels almost unreal in its beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features turquoise, emerald, and sapphire lakes so clear you can see ancient submerged tree logs dozens of meters below the surface. Waterfalls cascade between lakes in a multi-tiered paradise, autumn brings forests ablaze in gold and crimson, and Tibetan villages add cultural richness. After the 2017 earthquake caused temporary closure, the valley has reopened with restored trails and continued natural splendor, though visitor numbers are now controlled to protect this fragile environment.
Top Attractions & Highlights
The park comprises three valleys (Y-shaped) with dozens of named lakes and waterfalls connected by boardwalks and trails. Five Flower Lake dazzles with multiple colors created by minerals, algae, and submerged calcified logs. Long Lake, the park’s largest and highest, sits at 3,100 meters and reflects surrounding snow-capped peaks. Pearl Shoal Waterfall spreads across a wide calcified cascade, made famous in the Journey to the West television series.
Nuorilang Falls, one of China’s widest waterfalls, thunders with impressive force during high water periods. The park’s lower section features narrower valleys with rushing streams and close-up waterfall views. Boardwalks allow intimate access while protecting fragile travertine formations. Tibetan prayer flags, traditional buildings, and yaks grazing in meadows add cultural dimension.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Autumn (late September to October) showcases the valley at its most spectacular when foliage creates a riot of colors against blue lakes. Summer brings lush greenery and full waterfalls but also peak crowds and rain. Winter transforms the park into a frozen wonderland with ice formations and far fewer visitors, though some areas become inaccessible. Spring runoff creates powerful waterfalls. Visit mid-week if possible to avoid weekend crowds.
Allow a full day minimum, ideally two days to explore at a relaxed pace and catch different lighting throughout the day. The park is large, and shuttle buses help cover distances between valleys.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Jiuzhaigou Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport serves the region with flights from major Chinese cities, though weather can affect schedules. The airport sits high at 3,447 meters, so altitude adjustment begins immediately. Buses from Chengdu take 8 to 10 hours along winding mountain roads, overnight options help save a day but can be uncomfortable. Some travelers combine Jiuzhaigou with nearby Huanglong National Park, famous for its terraced golden travertine pools.
Inside the park, eco-friendly buses transport visitors between major sites along the three valleys. The system is efficient, though buses can be crowded. Extensive boardwalks allow walking between sites within each valley.
Local Tips & Cautions
The park now requires advance online booking with daily visitor limits. Book accommodations early as options near the park are limited. The altitude (around 2,000 to 3,100 meters) can cause mild altitude sickness for some visitors. Stay hydrated and take it easy if you feel symptoms.
Bring layers as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Photography enthusiasts should bring polarizing filters to reduce glare on the intensely colored lakes. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting, so staying overnight near the park entrance helps capture these magic hours.
Nearby Gems
Huanglong Scenic Area, about 2 hours away, features remarkable golden calcified travertine pools cascading down a mountain valley, like natural infinity pools in the forest. The area reaches over 3,500 meters elevation, so altitude effects are more pronounced. Tibetan villages around Jiuzhaigou offer homestays and cultural experiences.
8. Lijiang & Tiger Leaping Gorge: Old Town Charm Meets Epic Adventure
Why It’s Special
Lijiang’s Old Town represents one of China’s best-preserved ancient cities, with cobblestone streets, wooden buildings, and canals reflecting traditional Naxi minority architecture. But Lijiang is also the gateway to some of Yunnan’s most spectacular natural scenery, including Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest river canyons where the Jinsha River (upper Yangtze) thunders through a narrow gap between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. This combination of cultural immersion and outdoor adventure makes the region endlessly appealing.
Top Attractions & Highlights
Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, winds through lanes packed with craft shops, cafes, and traditional Naxi architecture. The town’s tourism development means it can feel commercialized, but early mornings before crowds arrive reveal its charm. Climb Lion Hill for panoramic views across the tiled roofs to surrounding mountains. Black Dragon Pool Park offers classic postcard views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in still water.
Tiger Leaping Gorge provides one of China’s most spectacular treks. The two-day high trail follows the canyon rim with jaw-dropping views of the river 2,000 meters below and snowy peaks above. The trail passes through small villages with guesthouses offering basic accommodations and tremendous hospitality. The upper, middle, and lower sections each offer different perspectives, with the middle section providing the most dramatic viewpoints.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain itself offers cable cars to high elevations for mountain views and alpine meadows. Baisha Village, north of Lijiang, preserves older traditional architecture with fewer tourists and ancient frescoes in its temples. Shuhe Ancient Town provides a quieter alternative to Lijiang’s Old Town with similar traditional architecture.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
March to May and September to November offer the best weather for hiking and exploring. Summer brings rain that can make trails muddy and reduce mountain visibility, though landscapes are lush. Winter is cold but clear, with snow-capped mountains providing stunning backdrops, though the gorge trek can be icy and dangerous.
Allocate at least four to five days: one to two days exploring Lijiang and surroundings, two days for the Tiger Leaping Gorge trek, and flexibility for weather or additional hiking.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Lijiang Sanyi Airport connects to major Chinese cities. Overnight trains from Kunming (around 8 hours) provide scenic mountain journey alternatives. From Lijiang, buses reach Tiger Leaping Gorge trailheads in about 2 hours. Many travelers arrange transportation through guesthouses or join small group tours with hiking flexibility.
Local Tips & Cautions
Lijiang’s Old Town charges an entrance fee ostensibly for maintenance. Accommodations inside the Old Town offer atmosphere but can be noisy due to bars and crowds. Consider staying in quieter sections or outside the Old Town proper.
For Tiger Leaping Gorge, the high trail requires moderate fitness due to elevation gain and loss. Bring appropriate hiking shoes, layers, sun protection, and water purification tablets. Guesthouses along the trail provide meals and beds, booking ahead helps during busy seasons. The trek is manageable for most reasonably fit people, but the stairs and elevation can be challenging.
The Naxi people have a rich cultural heritage including a pictographic script and distinctive music. Attending a Naxi ancient music performance in Lijiang provides cultural context. Be respectful when visiting temples and villages.
Nearby Gems
Lugu Lake, on the Yunnan-Sichuan border, showcases a matriarchal Mosuo culture and beautiful high-altitude lake scenery. Shangri-La (Zhongdian), further north, offers Tibetan culture, monasteries, and mountain landscapes. The First Bend of the Yangtze River viewpoint shows where the river makes a dramatic U-turn.
9. Hangzhou: Marco Polo’s “Finest City in the World”
Why It’s Special
Marco Polo declared Hangzhou “the finest and most splendid city in the world,” and while that superlative might be debatable, West Lake’s serene beauty has inspired Chinese poets, painters, and emperors for over a millennium. Just an hour from Shanghai by high-speed train, Hangzhou offers a completely different pace: willow-draped causeways across the lake, pagodas on green hills, ancient temples, traditional tea plantations, and a city that has successfully balanced modernization with preservation of its scenic and cultural heritage.
Top Attractions & Highlights
West Lake defines Hangzhou. Walking or cycling the causeways (Su Causeway and Bai Causeway are the famous ones) provides constantly changing views of the lake, its islands, surrounding hills, and seasonal flowers. Rent a paddle boat or take a cruise to appreciate the lake from the water. The Ten Scenes of West Lake, identified during the Song Dynasty, include landmarks like Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, Lotus in the Breeze at Crooked Courtyard, and Autumn Moon over Calm Lake.
Lingyin Temple, one of China’s largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples, nestles in forested hills west of the lake. The adjacent Feilai Feng (Flying Peak) features hundreds of Buddhist stone carvings from the 10th to 14th centuries carved directly into cliff faces. The temple’s active worship provides a spiritual dimension beyond mere sightseeing.
Hangzhou’s Longjing (Dragon Well) tea is among China’s most prized green teas. Visit tea plantations in the hills around Meijiawu or Longjing Village, where you can watch tea processing, participate in picking (seasonal), and sample fresh tea while learning about Chinese tea culture. The China National Tea Museum offers comprehensive tea education if you want deeper knowledge.
Hefang Street, a pedestrianized historic area, sells local crafts, snacks, and silk products. While touristy, it offers good people-watching and local specialties like sweet osmanthus cake. The Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient engineering marvel connecting Beijing to Hangzhou, has a preserved section worth exploring by boat.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Spring (March to May) brings blooming flowers and comfortable weather, though the lake can be crowded during Chinese holidays. Autumn (September to November) offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is hot and humid but showcases lotus flowers blooming across the lake. Winter has its own misty, poetic beauty with fewer tourists.
Two to three days allows thorough exploration: one day circling West Lake and visiting temples, one day for tea plantations and more distant attractions, and leisure time for enjoying Hangzhou’s relaxed atmosphere.
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport serves domestic and international flights. High-speed trains from Shanghai take just 45 minutes to 1 hour, making Hangzhou an easy day trip or weekend extension from Shanghai. The high-speed train station connects directly to the metro system.
Hangzhou’s metro efficiently serves major areas. Public bikes are available through a card system, and the bike-sharing apps work well here. Walking around West Lake is pleasant, and the lakeside paths are well-maintained.
Local Tips & Cautions
West Lake is free to access, though some gardens and attractions around it charge admission. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. Locals practice tai chi, fly kites, and exercise around the lake in early mornings, creating photogenic scenes.
Hangzhou cuisine emphasizes fresh, delicate flavors and features dishes like Dongpo pork (braised pork belly), West Lake fish in vinegar sauce, and beggar’s chicken. The city’s teahouses range from simple local spots to elegant establishments overlooking the lake.
Nearby Gems
The Six Harmonies Pagoda offers views over the Qiantang River, famous for its tidal bore phenomenon (best in autumn during mid-autumn festival). Xixi National Wetland Park provides nature trails and traditional water villages within the city. The China Academy of Art campus showcases contemporary Chinese architecture.
10. Kashgar: Where the Silk Road Lives On
Why It’s Special
Kashgar feels worlds away from eastern China. Located in Xinjiang’s far west near the borders with Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, this ancient Silk Road oasis city pulses with Central Asian culture. The Sunday Market draws traders from surrounding mountains, the Old City preserves traditional Uyghur architecture, and the ethnic mix creates a cultural atmosphere closer to Samarkand than Shanghai. For travelers seeking what to see in China beyond the typical routes, Kashgar offers one of the country’s most distinctive experiences.
Top Attractions & Highlights
The Kashgar Old City showcases traditional Uyghur architecture with its maze of narrow alleys, mud-brick houses, and vibrant door paintings. While significant reconstruction has occurred (controversial among preservationists), wandering these lanes still provides glimpses of traditional life: craftsmen at work, bread baking in clay ovens, and children playing in courtyards. The craft street area displays handmade instruments, knives, carpets, and metalwork.
The Id Kah Mosque, China’s largest, serves as Kashgar’s spiritual center. Its yellow-tiled facade and courtyard can accommodate thousands of worshippers. Be respectful of prayer times and dress modestly. Non-Muslims can usually visit outside prayer times, though policies vary.
The Sunday Livestock Market (actually held on Sundays) is an extraordinary spectacle where Uyghur, Tajik, Kyrgyz, and other traders buy and sell sheep, cattle, horses, donkeys, and camels. The scene is chaotic, dusty, and utterly authentic, offering insight into rural Central Asian life that has changed little in centuries. The adjacent Grand Bazaar (open daily) sells everything from spices and dried fruits to carpets and doppa hats.
Abakh Khoja Tomb, on the city outskirts, features beautiful Islamic architecture with its green-tiled dome and peaceful gardens. This mausoleum complex houses Uyghur nobles and connects to legends of the Fragrant Concubine. The Kashgar Museum provides context on Silk Road history and the region’s diverse ethnic groups.
Best Time to Visit & Ideal Duration
Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer comfortable temperatures and clear skies for mountain views. Summer is hot but festivals and markets are most active. Winter is cold and many mountain passes close, though the city itself remains accessible.
Allocate three to four days for Kashgar and potential day trips to nearby villages or the Karakoram Highway towards Pakistan (an incredible scenic road, though the full route requires special permits).
How to Reach & Transportation Tips
Kashgar Airport connects to Urumqi (Xinjiang’s capital) and other major Chinese cities. The train journey from Urumqi takes about 16 hours but offers desert and mountain scenery. Within Kashgar, taxis are affordable and necessary for reaching sites outside the central Old City area. Some travelers use Kashgar as a starting point for overland journeys along the Silk Road or into Pakistan via the Karakoram Highway.
Local Tips & Cautions
Travel in Xinjiang requires sensitivity to complex political and cultural situations. Security checkpoints are common, so carry your passport at all times. Photography restrictions exist at some sites, always ask permission before photographing people, especially in mosques or markets.
Respect local customs: dress conservatively, remove shoes when entering homes or mosques, and be aware of Islamic practices like Ramadan which affects restaurant hours. The Uyghur language uses Arabic script; English is rare, so translation apps help significantly.
Kashgar’s food scene features Central Asian specialties: lagman (hand-pulled noodles with meat and vegetables), polo (rice pilaf), samsa (baked meat pastries), and various grilled meats and breads. The night market offers the most variety and atmosphere.
Nearby Gems
Karakul Lake, about 200 kilometers away on the Karakoram Highway, sits at high altitude beneath Muztagh Ata peak with stunning mountain and lake scenery. Tajik yurt stays can be arranged. The ancient city of Yarkand (Shache), a few hours south, preserves Silk Road history with less tourist development. Tashkurgan, near the Pakistani border, offers dramatic Pamir mountain scenery and distinct Tajik culture.
Honorable Mentions: More Hidden Gems in China
While the top 10 destinations above offer incredible experiences, China’s vastness means numerous other places deserve recognition:
Longsheng Rice Terraces (Guangxi): Spectacular terraced rice fields covering mountain slopes, particularly stunning when flooded in spring or golden in autumn. Ethnic Zhuang and Yao villages offer homestays and cultural immersion.
Mount Huangshan (Anhui): The Yellow Mountains feature iconic granite peaks rising from seas of clouds, gnarled pine trees clinging to cliff faces, and hot springs. This landscape has inspired Chinese art and poetry for centuries.
Dunhuang & Mogao Caves (Gansu): This Silk Road oasis town guards one of the world’s most important Buddhist art treasures. The Mogao Caves contain hundreds of painted grottoes spanning a millennium, with thousands of square meters of murals and sculptures.
Pingyao (Shanxi): One of China’s best-preserved ancient walled cities, Pingyao showcases Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, was once a banking center, and offers atmospheric streets without modern intrusions.
Xiahe & Labrang Monastery (Gansu): This Tibetan Buddhist monastery town sits on the edge of the Tibetan plateau, offering accessible Tibetan culture with one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school and stunning grassland scenery.
Recommended Travel Routes & Itineraries
Planning an efficient route through China saves time and maximizes experiences. Here are three sample itineraries covering different interests:
Classic China Highlights (14 Days)
Day 1-4: Beijing Forbidden City, Great Wall (Mutianyu), Temple of Heaven, hutongs, Summer Palace
Day 5-6: Xi’an High-speed train from Beijing (4.5 hours) Terracotta Warriors, city walls, Muslim Quarter
Day 7-9: Guilin/Yangshuo Flight or high-speed train from Xi’an Li River cruise, countryside cycling, karst landscape exploration
Day 10-12: Shanghai Flight or high-speed train from Guilin Bund, Pudong, French Concession, museums, day trip to water town
Day 13-14: Hangzhou High-speed train from Shanghai (45 minutes) West Lake, tea plantations, temples; return to Shanghai for departure
This route balances history, nature, and modern China while following logical geographic progression and maximizing high-speed rail efficiency.
Nature & Mountains Focus (10-12 Days)
Day 1-2: Chengdu Panda base, city exploration, Sichuan food
Day 3-5: Jiuzhaigou Valley Flight or bus from Chengdu Two full days exploring the valleys
Day 6-9: Lijiang & Tiger Leaping Gorge Flight to Lijiang Old Town exploration, two-day gorge trek
Day 10-12: Guilin/Yangshuo Flight from Lijiang Li River, karst landscapes, countryside
Optional extension: Add Zhangjiajie (3 days) between Chengdu and Guilin for even more dramatic nature.
Silk Road & Culture Journey (21 Days)
Day 1-3: Beijing Essential sites and acclimatization
Day 4-5: Xi’an High-speed train, Terracotta Warriors, Silk Road history
Day 6-7: Dunhuang Overnight train or flight Mogao Caves, Crescent Lake, desert scenery
Day 8-9: Jiayuguan Train Great Wall’s western end, fort
Day 10-11: Zhangye Bus or train Rainbow mountains, Giant Buddha Temple
Day 12-15: Gansu/Qinghai region Xiahe (Labrang Monastery), Qinghai Lake, Tibetan plateau landscapes
Day 16-18: Urumqi & Turpan Flight or train Xinjiang culture, grape valleys, Flaming Mountains
Day 19-21: Kashgar Flight from Urumqi Sunday market, Old City, Karakoram Highway exploration
This ambitious route follows the ancient Silk Road, showcasing China’s western regions, ethnic diversity, and desert-to-mountain landscapes.
Budgeting & Money-Saving Advice
China can accommodate various travel budgets, from backpacker-level to luxury. Here’s what to expect and how to save:
Daily Budget Estimates (per person)
Budget Traveler ($30-50/day)
- Accommodation: Hostel dorms or basic guesthouses ($10-15)
- Food: Street food, local restaurants, supermarkets ($10-15)
- Transport: Public buses, metro, slow trains ($5-10)
- Activities: Free sites, some paid attractions ($5-10)
Mid-Range Traveler ($60-120/day)
- Accommodation: Comfortable hotels or nice guesthouses ($25-50)
- Food: Mix of local and nicer restaurants ($20-30)
- Transport: High-speed trains, occasional taxis, domestic flights ($15-30)
- Activities: Major attractions, occasional tours ($10-30)
Comfort/Luxury Traveler ($150+/day)
- Accommodation: International hotel chains, boutique properties ($60-150+)
- Food: Upscale restaurants, hotel dining ($30-80)
- Transport: Flights between cities, private drivers ($30-70)
- Activities: Private guides, premium experiences ($30-100+)
Money-Saving Tips
Transportation: High-speed trains are faster and more comfortable than buses but more expensive than regular trains. Booking trains in advance (30 days out) and traveling overnight saves accommodation costs. Domestic flights have competitive prices, especially on budget carriers, but factor in airport location and transit time.
Accommodation: Hostels offer excellent value and social opportunities, many have private rooms. Guesthouses in smaller towns provide authentic experiences at lower prices. Booking platforms like Ctrip, Booking.com, and Agoda offer deals. Consider staying slightly outside major tourist areas for better rates.
Food: Street food and local restaurants are incredibly affordable and delicious. University canteens sometimes allow outside visitors for rock-bottom prices. Supermarkets sell snacks and basics cheaply. Save splurge meals for regional specialties. Avoid tourist-trap restaurants near major sites.
Timing: Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for better weather and fewer crowds. Avoid Chinese holidays (Golden Week in early October, Spring Festival in January/February) when prices spike and sites overflow. Low season (November-March, except holidays) offers significant accommodation and tour discounts.
Attractions: Many parks and temples charge separate fees for the main site and sub-areas, adding up quickly. Research what’s truly unmissable versus skippable. Some cities offer multi-attraction passes. Hiking and walking are free and often provide the best experiences.
Visa & Permits: Chinese visa costs around $140 for US citizens (varies by nationality). Apply yourself rather than using expensive agencies unless you need rush processing. Some regions (Tibet, parts of Xinjiang) require special permits arranged through tour agencies, adding costs.
Currency & Payments
China’s currency is the renminbi (RMB or CNY), with the yuan as the base unit. Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) dominate, though recent updates allow foreign credit cards to link to these apps. ATMs are widespread in cities; inform your bank of travel plans to avoid blocked cards. Hotels and major establishments accept international credit cards, but cash remains essential for small vendors, rural areas, and some transport situations.
Hidden Gems & Insider Picks
Beyond the main destinations, these lesser-known spots reward adventurous travelers willing to venture off the beaten path:
Guizhou Province Hidden Villages
Guizhou remains one of China’s least-visited provinces despite spectacular karst landscapes, thundering waterfalls, and minority ethnic villages where traditional culture remains vibrant. Villages like Xijiang (the largest Miao village), Zhaoxing (Dong minority), and Langde offer homestays, festivals with traditional dress and music, and architecture like drum towers and wind-and-rain bridges that rival anything in more famous areas.
Gannan Tibetan Region
Straddling Gansu and Sichuan provinces, this Tibetan region offers authentic Tibetan culture without Tibet’s permit requirements. Beyond Labrang Monastery, the grasslands host nomadic families, monasteries cling to hillsides, and the landscape shifts from alpine meadows to deep valleys. It’s accessible yet feels remote, with fewer tourists than Lhasa or Shangri-La.
Kanas Lake (Xinjiang)
In Xinjiang’s far north near the borders with Russia, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan, Kanas Lake sits amid spectacular mountain scenery with a distinctly Swiss Alpine feel. The Tuva people, a Turkic ethnic group, maintain traditional ways. Autumn brings brilliant foliage, and the remoteness ensures solitude. It’s a long journey but offers some of China’s most pristine natural beauty.
Wuyuan (Jiangxi)
This county of preserved villages surrounded by rapeseed fields creates brilliant yellow landscapes in spring. White-walled, black-tiled Huizhou architecture dots green hills, stone bridges cross streams, and life moves at traditional rural pace. It’s especially photogenic but remains relatively unknown to international travelers.
Insider Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Regardless of where you visit, these strategies help you experience popular sites with fewer people:
Timing: Arrive right when sites open, before tour groups mobilize. Late afternoon works at some sites as groups depart. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Avoid Chinese national holidays at all costs.
Alternative Entrances: Popular parks often have multiple gates; research less-used entrances that require more effort but reward with solitude. At the Great Wall, sections like Jinshanling see far fewer visitors than Badaling or Mutianyu.
Go Deeper: At large sites, most visitors cluster near entrances. Walk further into parks, hike additional trails, or explore side valleys. The effort creates separation from crowds.
Shoulder Seasons: Visit just before or after peak seasons. Weather might be slightly less ideal, but crowds thin dramatically and you’ll actually see and photograph sites without human walls.
Remote Alternatives: For every famous destination, quieter alternatives exist. Choose Xingping over Yangshuo, Xiahe over Lhasa, Kanas over Jiuzhaigou. The trade-off in facilities is often worth the gain in authenticity.
Travel Hacks & Packing Tips for China
Preparation significantly impacts your China travel experience. Here’s what to know and bring:
Essential Apps & Technology
VPN: Download and set up a reliable VPN before arriving. The Great Firewall blocks Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, and many Western sites. Express VPN, Nord VPN, and others work, though effectiveness varies. Test it before traveling.
Translation: Google Translate (download Chinese language pack for offline use), Microsoft Translator, or Pleco (excellent Chinese dictionary) help immensely. The camera translation function turns signs and menus into English instantly.
Navigation: Baidu Maps works better than Google Maps in China. Download offline maps. Citymapper covers major cities. Maps.me offers offline navigation.
Transportation: Trip.com (Ctrip) books trains, flights, and hotels. 12306 is the official train booking app but challenging in English. DiDi is China’s Uber equivalent, essential for taxis (now has English interface).
Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay now allow foreign card linking, though setup can be tricky. Having these enables payments at many smaller vendors and restaurants that don’t accept cash or international cards.
Communication: WeChat is essential for communicating with hotels, guides, and even locals who might help you. Everyone in China uses it.
Packing Essentials
Power & Connectivity: China uses 220V, mostly Type A, C, or I plugs. Bring a universal adapter. A portable power bank is invaluable given extensive phone use for navigation and translation. Consider a portable WiFi device for constant connectivity.
Climate Preparation: China’s size means dramatic climate variations. North China (Beijing, Xi’an) has hot summers and cold winters. South China (Guilin, Guangzhou) stays warmer and humid. Western regions have extreme temperature swings between day and night. Layering is key. Pack for your specific route and season.
Health & Comfort: Air quality varies significantly; N95 masks help in polluted cities or during poor air quality days. Altitude sickness medication (like acetazolamide) is wise for high-elevation destinations like Jiuzhaigou, Tibet, or Qinghai. Bring any prescription medications with documentation, as Western brands may be unavailable.
Modesty & Respect: While major cities are cosmopolitan, more conservative dress is appreciated in rural areas, minority regions, and religious sites. Covered shoulders and knees show respect. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable given the extensive walking at Chinese tourist sites.
Toiletries: Bring travel-size versions of preferred brands, as Western products can be expensive or hard to find outside major cities. Pack toilet paper or tissues, as many public restrooms don’t provide it. Hand sanitizer is essential.
Documents: Carry physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and hotel confirmations. Keep these separate from originals. Have emergency contact information readily accessible.
Cultural Preparation
Language: Learning basic Mandarin phrases (hello, thank you, how much, where is) shows respect and occasionally proves useful. Numbers are especially helpful for negotiating prices. Written Chinese helps; many locals can read even if they don’t speak your pronunciation.
Etiquette: Tipping is not expected or practiced in China. Business cards are exchanged formally with both hands. Taking off shoes indoors (in homes, some temples) is customary. Public behavior is generally noisier than in Western countries; loud conversation is normal, and personal space concepts differ.
Dining: Communal dining means sharing dishes; order variety and pace yourself. Lazy Susans at round tables rotate clockwise. Chopstick etiquette matters: don’t stick them vertically in rice (funeral symbolism), don’t point with them, and use serving chopsticks when provided.
Final Thoughts & Your China Adventure Awaits
If you want to explore China, this guide to the top 10 places to visit in China covers your essential destinations from imperial Beijing to remote Kashgar, misty Guilin to modern Shanghai. Each destination offers distinct experiences: history buffs will find imperial palaces and ancient treasures, nature lovers can trek through avatar mountains and pristine valleys, food enthusiasts will discover regional cuisines that redefine what Chinese food means, and culture seekers will encounter everything from Tibetan Buddhism to Silk Road heritage.
The beauty of traveling China lies in its contrasts. You’ll experience the world’s most futuristic cities and then step into villages where life has changed little in centuries. You’ll taste food so spicy it makes you cry and so delicate it barely touches your palate. You’ll see landscapes so dramatic they seem impossible and ancient art so intricate it demands hours of appreciation.
Start with destinations that match your interests: history lovers begin in Beijing and Xi’an, nature enthusiasts head for Zhangjiajie or Jiuzhaigou, urban explorers choose Shanghai, cultural adventurers venture to Kashgar or Lijiang. From there, branch out. China rewards both careful planning and spontaneous exploration, structured tours and independent adventures, quick visits and extended immersion.
The infrastructure continues improving, making travel easier each year. High-speed trains connect distant cities in hours. English signage expands. Digital tools help navigate language barriers. Yet China retains its essential character: challenging, rewarding, surprising, and utterly distinct from anywhere else on Earth.
Which of these destinations would you visit first? Have you traveled to China before, or are you planning your first adventure? Share your thoughts, questions, or experiences in the comments below!
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FAQ: Top 10 Places to Visit in China
What is the most popular place to visit in China?
Beijing remains the most popular destination, combining the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and status as the national capital. Shanghai follows closely as China’s modern showpiece and financial center.
Which city in China should I visit first?
For first-time visitors, Beijing offers the most comprehensive introduction to Chinese culture, history, and logistics. It provides essential context for understanding the rest of the country, with infrastructure geared toward international travelers.
Is 10 days enough to see China?
Ten days allows you to see three to four destinations well, focusing on a specific region or theme. You could cover Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, or focus on one region like Yunnan or Sichuan. Longer trips (two to three weeks) allow more comprehensive exploration without feeling rushed.
What are some hidden gems in China?
Beyond the main ten, consider Guizhou’s minority villages, Gannan’s Tibetan culture, Kanas Lake’s alpine scenery, Dunhuang’s desert oasis and caves, Wuyuan’s spring rapeseed fields, and Xiahe’s massive monastery. These destinations offer authentic experiences with fewer international tourists.
Which destinations are best for nature versus cities in China?
For nature: Zhangjiajie, Jiuzhaigou, Guilin/Yangshuo, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Huangshan, Longsheng Rice Terraces, Kanas Lake
For cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Kashgar (for culture)
Best for both: Chengdu (pandas plus mountain access), Hangzhou (West Lake within a city), Lijiang (old town plus gorge nearby)
Do I need a visa to visit China?
Most nationalities require a visa for China, obtained in advance through Chinese embassies or consulates. The process typically takes one to two weeks and costs vary by nationality (around $140 for US citizens). Some cities offer limited visa-free transit (24-144 hours) for certain nationalities with onward tickets. Check current requirements based on your nationality, as policies change occasionally.
