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Top 12 Best Destinations in China: That Shouldn’t Miss!

Top 12 Best Destinations in China: That Shouldn’t Miss!

Top 12 Best Destinations in China: That Shouldn't Miss!
Top 12 Best Destinations in China: That Shouldn’t Miss!

China is a vast and diverse country with an array of stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks. From snow-capped mountains and tropical beaches to ancient cities and modern metropolises, it’s easy to underestimate the country’s size and variety. Imagine experiencing the arid heat of the Gobi Desert, the cool breeze of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the subtropical beaches of Hainan — all in a single day, if only you had a plane fast enough to whisk you around!

While first-time visitors often prioritize Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, this list will guide you to explore beyond these popular destinations. Whether it’s your first trip or your third, here are 12 breathtaking attractions to inspire your next journey.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore China is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild, skies are clear, and tourist spots are less crowded. Destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an shine in these seasons with ideal sightseeing conditions. Beach lovers can visit Sanya in Hainan from November to March for subtropical sunshine. For snow and mountain adventures, Yunnan’s Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is perfect between October and April.

1. The Great Wall of China, Various Locations

The Great Wall of China, Various Locations

Spanning 13,171 miles and built over 2,000 years, the Great Wall is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Popular sections include:

Departing from Beijing, it takes 1 to 3 hours to reach most sections. Walking along this ancient fortification is a bucket-list experience you’ll never forget.

2. Beijing

Beijing

China’s sprawling capital offers a blend of ancient heritage and modern wonders. Highlights include:

For a unique experience, book a Hutong Tour to explore Beijing’s traditional courtyard residences. Don’t forget to savor a classic Peking duck meal at Dadong.

3. Shanghai

Shanghai

China’s largest city is a vibrant economic hub with a mix of historical and modern attractions:

Indulge in soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) for a taste of Shanghai’s culinary culture.

4. Xi’an, Shaanxi

Xi’an, Shaanxi

Xi’an is a treasure trove of heritage, most famous for the Terracotta Army, guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Additional highlights:

5. Chengdu, Sichuan

Chengdu, Sichuan

Home of the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Chengdu is a paradise for wildlife lovers and foodies alike. Culinary must-tries include:

From Chengdu, you can also visit Jiuzhai Valley and Huanglong National Parks.

6. Chongqing

Chongqing

Known for its towering skyscrapers and vibrant riverfront, Chongqing offers a balance of old and new:

7. Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Hangzhou, Zhejiang

Just southwest of Shanghai, Hangzhou is postcard-perfect and celebrated by poets for its natural beauty:

8. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan

Nicknamed the Avatar Mountains, Zhangjiajie’s pillar-like rock formations inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the 2009 film Avatar. Additional highlights:

9. Li River, Guangxi

Li River, Guangxi

The Li River flows through a picturesque karst landscape, immortalized on the 20-yuan note. Highlights include:

10. Yinchuan, Ningxia

Yinchuan, Ningxia

Remote yet fascinating, Yinchuan offers:

11. Sanya, Hainan

Sanya, Hainan

Often called the “Hawaii of China,” Sanya is a tropical paradise:

12. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yunnan

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yunnan

Soaring 5,596 meters above sea level, this glacial mountain is a sight to behold:

Be prepared for altitude sickness at these dizzying heights.

Read also: 10 Best attractions in Guangzhou for families: You Can’t Miss!

Conclusion

China’s sheer size and diversity ensure there’s always more to explore. Whether you’re drawn to ancient wonders, natural beauty, or modern cities, these 12 destinations showcase the best of what this incredible country has to offer. Start planning your adventure today and let China’s timeless charm captivate you.
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