Travellers searching for culture, history, food, adventure in vibrant cities or ancient villages with stunning nature will find much to love in China.
The Great Wall of China is the main draw, but this UNESCO World Heritage Site also has much more to offer. Climb up its majestic mountains for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
1. Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is one of the world’s most breathtaking sights. Situated on the northern edge of Tiananmen Square in Beijing, this monumental complex was once home to emperors and their families. For over 500 years, this iconic tourist spot has been a beloved destination. Nowadays it houses an expansive museum featuring carefully curated art and historic relics.
The Forbidden City, one of the world’s most iconic palaces, has long been a major center of Chinese culture. For 500 years, it served as both ceremonial and political power in China. This expansive palace complex, dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), was home to nearly all of China’s emperors. Its name, Zijin Cheng, means “forbidden”, in reference to its strict rule that no outsider was permitted entry without prior consent of the emperor.
Its rectangular layout embodies the Yin-Yang theory; the front part of the palace represents yin, while the back section represents yang. This arrangement was intended to keep the architecture balanced and harmonious.
2. Leshan Buddha
Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest stone Buddha, is an iconic landmark to visit in China. Carved into rockface overlooking Min River, Qingyi River, and Dadu River near Leshan city in Sichuan province, the statue stands as a testament to this fact.
This majestic 71m (233ft) statue was constructed between 713 and 803, taking more than 90 years to complete. It’s an awe-inspiring work of art with intricate details sure to amaze visitors. It has been carved from a cliff face of Cretaceous red bed sandstones that form part of Xijuo Peak. The Buddha’s symmetrical posture stands as a testament to the skill and dedication of those who built it.
There are various ways to view the Leshan Giant Buddha, such as taking a boat tour that allows you to observe it from a distance. Climbing up the stairs to see the statue is another popular option but may be difficult without assistance and takes up considerable time. Leshan Shizhong, Leshan Giant Buddha, is an ideal base for exploring Chengdu’s Leshan area. Its spacious apartments provide comfortable accommodations and free Wi-Fi throughout your stay.
3. Xi’an
Xi’an, China’s capital and one of China’s most significant historical cities, is renowned for its terracotta warriors but there are plenty of other sights and attractions to visit as well. The Tomb of Emperor Jingdi is another Xi’an must-visit that should not be missed. Constructed between 188 and 141 BC during the Han Dynasty, it houses an engaging museum that details over 2,500 years of Chinese culture.
Another popular attraction in Xi’an is the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India by monk Xuanzang. Not only is this structure beautiful, but it offers visitors a stunning view over the cityscape.
Take a break from the hectic pace of Xi’an and relax in the glassed-in enclosure or climb to the top floor for stunning views over the city. Xi’an is an idyllic city to explore and offers plenty of activities to do. To truly take in all that the city has to offer, it’s best to stay for a few days and explore everything it has to offer.
4. Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie is one of China’s most beloved tourist spots. These mountains are renowned for their stunning beauty and mysterious charm; no wonder why millions of visitors come here every year to marvel at this wonder.
This park’s mountains have become so renowned that they have been declared one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Additionally, these mountains served as inspiration for the Hallelujah Mountains featured in the movie Avatar. In this national park, you can admire 243 peaks and more than 3,000 pinnacles and spires that rise from the earth’s surface. They provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for photos – especially at sunrise when they’re shrouded in mountain mist.
Exploring this park by cable car is one of the most thrilling options. It’s the longest cable way in the world and takes you to Tianmen Mountain’s top where you can view Tianmen Cave in all its grandeur. Additionally, Ten-Mile Gallery provides breathtaking scenery while boating on Baofeng Lake is another must-do activity in this magical park.
5. Heaven Lake
If you’re searching for an unforgettable place to visit in China, Heaven Lake should not be missed. Situated amidst snow-capped mountains and spruce trees in Tianshan Tianchi National Park in Xinjiang Province, this breathtaking natural landmark should not be missed.
Heaven Lake was formed by an eruption of Paektu Mountain and lies 68 km east of Urumqi, becoming a UNSCO World Natural Heritage property and one of Xinjiang’s top tourist destinations. Photographers will love this breathtaking spot for its crystal water, white snow and high mountains covered with spruce trees. Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities to capture these stunning views!
This lake is not only a popular tourist attraction, but it serves as a representation of Chinese national identity and ethnic culture. You can see various traditional buildings and architecture in the surrounding area, such as yurts, mosques and ancient palaces.
In addition to breathtaking scenery, this place also provides tourists with plenty of outdoor activities like camping, swimming and hiking. If you’re looking for a break from city life, this is an ideal destination.
6. The Bund
On any trip to Shanghai, visitors must see the Bund – known in Chinese as “Waitan” – a long pedestrian promenade of historic buildings along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Once home to an International Settlement in years past, this beautiful esplanade is famed for its 52 English and French-influenced buildings.
The buildings on the Bund are not only stunning to gaze upon, but they also tell a fascinating story about Singapore’s early days as an international trading center. You can explore many landmarks here, from the old customs office and bell tower to the majestic Peace Hotel.
In addition to offering an intriguing glimpse of Shanghai, the Bund also boasts stunning views over Pudong and its futuristic skyline. Tour operators can take you along its length as well as across Pudong Bridge into Shanghai’s financial district.
Visiting the Bund is an ideal way to appreciate China’s long history, from ancient times up until its 21st-century innovation and rapid development.
China manages to strike the perfect balance between tradition and modernity – it boasts comfortable hotels, stunning relics and breathtaking scenery that you will never forget.
