Introduction
China is a vast country with a long and rich history spanning over 5,000 years. It has many iconic sites and places that attract millions of tourists every year. From the Great Wall to the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, the scenic landscapes in Guilin, to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, China offers diverse attractions to suit all interests. Here is an overview of China’s 10 most popular tourist destinations that you must see when you visit this fascinating country.
1. The Great Wall of China (Beijing)
The Great Wall of China is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage site. The wall was built over 2,000 years ago to defend China against invasions from northern nomadic groups. You can visit the most famous section called Badaling, which is just 70 km from Beijing. As you stand on the wall that snakes through the hills and mountains, you will appreciate the grand scale of this incredible structure. The views of the surrounding landscapes are simply breathtaking.
2. Forbidden City (Beijing)
Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is the largest and best-preserved collection of ancient buildings in China, covering 72 hectares. For almost 500 years, it served as the imperial palace and political center of the Ming and Qing dynasties. As you walk through the vast complex of 800 buildings with 9,999 rooms, you will admire the Chinese imperial architecture with intricate wooden structures and orange rooftops. Do not miss the Clock Exhibition Hall showcasing various elaborate timepieces.
3. Terracotta Army (Xi’an)
The Terracotta Army near Xi’an is one of the most significant archaeological excavations in China. You will be awed by the 8,000 lifesize terracotta figures of warriors and horses arranged in battle formations, built to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor Qin Shi Huang. This site gives you a glimpse into the military power and weapon technology of ancient China over 2,200 years ago. You can observe the minute details on each facial feature of the terracotta figures, no two of which are identical.
4. Li River Cruise (Guilin)
The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is like entering a traditional Chinese watercolor painting with its limestone karst peaks, lush green hills, traditional villages and farming scenes. As you gently sail downstream, you will be greeted by breathtaking scenery around each river bend. Along the way, see water buffaloes wallowing in the river, fishermen on bamboo rafts, cormorant birds catching fish and unique peak-shaped hills. It is an unforgettable experience.
5. Zhangjiajie National Park
The iconic sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie National Park were the inspiration behind the floating Hallelujah mountains in the Hollywood movie ‘Avatar’. As you take the cable car ride up to the park, you will be amazed by 3,000 vertical sandstone pillars, some over 200 m high, covered with lush forests. Walk along the glass skywalk for a thrilling view below your feet or take the longest cable car ride in the world over the valley. You can experience this natural wonder and feast your eyes on unimaginable landscapes.
6. The Bund (Shanghai)
When you visit the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, an absolute must-see is The Bund. This famous waterfront area is a symbol of Shanghai with its row of heritage buildings lining the Huangpu River on one side and the modern skyscrapers on the Pudong district on the other. Take an evening stroll as you admire the glittering lights and energy, reminiscing the city’s glamor in the early 20th century. You can also go on a relaxing cruise along the river to enjoy stunning views of The Bund.
7. Lijiang Old Town
Lijiang Old Town in Yunnan province whisks you away to a quaint Chinese town wonderfully preserved for over 1,000 years. As you meander along the cobblestone lanes, crossing arched stone bridges over crystal clear streams, you will admire the wooden buildings, canals and aqueducts. The backdrop of Jade Snow Mountain completes the picture-postcard landscape. You can try delicious local cuisine, see age-old rituals, buy handicrafts or dress up in ethnic minority costumes.
8. Longsheng Rice Terraces
The incredible Longsheng Rice Terraces in Guangxi look like enormous steps cut into the mountains. Also called Dragon’s Backbone for its winding layers, these rice terraces were built over 700 years ago by the Zhuang minority. As you walk through the terraces, you will be awed by the ingenuity of creating fertile farmland and intricate irrigation systems on steep slopes. The scenic landscape transforms with the seasons – emerald green in spring to golden yellow in autumn.
9. Huangshan Mountain (The Yellow Mountains)
The iconic Yellow Mountains in Anhui province have been the inspiration of Chinese artwork for centuries. As you hike up the granite peaks shrouded in mist, you will understand their muse-like qualities. Admire the uniquely-shaped jagged granite peaks, magnificent pine trees, crystal clear springs, and the endless ocean of clouds at sunrise/sunset. It is nature’s art museum and every turn reveals a breathtaking view. You can also stay overnight in century-old wooden hostels on the mountain.
10. Giant Panda Breeding Center (Chengdu)
When visiting Chengdu, most tourists head straight to the Giant Panda Breeding Center, which is the easiest place to view these cute black-and-white bears. As you observe these furry animals lounging lazily, chewing bamboo or tumbling clumsily, you cannot help but be endeared by their cuddly antics. Walk through the engaging museum displays to understand panda conservation efforts. Chengdu also has a historic culture and you must try delicious Sichuan cuisine found nowhere else.
Conclusion
China’s most popular attractions like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, Li River cruise and Shanghai Bund should definitely be on your bucket list. Venture further to admire stunning natural landscapes at Zhangjiajie mountains, rice terraces and Yellow Mountains or immerse in ancient history at Lijiang Old Town. See Giant Pandas lazing around in Chengdu too. With visa-free access, world-class infrastructure and affordable options, China guarantees an epic, memorable vacation.