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

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:

• Mutianyu: Best restored, suitable for families.
• Badaling: The first section opened to the public, still a favorite.
• Jinshanling to Simatai: A 3-hour hiking route for adventurers.

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

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

• The Forbidden City: A majestic imperial palace.
• Tiananmen Square: A site of historical significance.
• Summer Palace: A serene lakeside retreat.

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

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

• The Bund: European-style architecture with river views.
• Pudong Skyline: Skyscrapers lit up like Christmas trees at night.
• French Concession: Leafy streets lined with grand mansions.

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

4. 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:

• Han Yang Ling Mausoleum: Lesser-known yet fascinating.
• Xi’an City Wall: A remarkably preserved medieval fortification.
• Muslim Quarter: A glimpse into Islamic influences along the Silk Road.

5. Chengdu, Sichuan

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

• Spicy hot pot.
• Mapo tofu.
• Street food outside temples.

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

6. Chongqing

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

• Ciqikou Old Town: Experience traditional Chongqing before modernization.
• Dazu Rock Carvings: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 10,000 intricate carvings.
• Yangtze River Cruises: Explore China’s longest river.

7. Hangzhou, Zhejiang

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

• West Lake: Lined with willows and dotted with lotus flowers in summer.
• Tea Plantations: Try Longjing (Dragon Well) tea.
• Silk Markets: Bring home elegant souvenirs.

8. 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:

• Glass-bottomed Bridge: Cross 300 meters above a breathtaking canyon.
• Misty Forest Views: Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

9. Li River, Guangxi

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

• River Cruises: Sail from Guilin to Yangshuo.
• Traditional Fishermen: Spot locals using cormorants to catch fish.

10. Yinchuan, Ningxia

Remote yet fascinating, Yinchuan offers:

• China’s Wine Region: Producing Bordeaux-style reds gaining global acclaim.
• Tengger Desert Dunes: A stunning gateway to desert adventures.
• Sanguan Kou: A Ming Dynasty section of the Great Wall.

11. Sanya, Hainan

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

• Beaches: Golden sands and turquoise waters.
• Diving: Explore vibrant marine life.
• Hiking Trails: Forested paths for nature enthusiasts.
• Hot Springs: Perfect for relaxation.

12. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yunnan

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

• China’s Highest Ski Resort: Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Tiger Leaping Gorge: Witness the Jinsha River thunder through a steep valley.
• Lijiang Ancient Town: Explore charming wooden houses with tiled roofs.

Be prepared for altitude sickness at these dizzying heights.

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

Conclusion