Top 20 Must-Visit Tourist Places in China | China’s Iconic Place
China, a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a plethora of tourist destinations that cater to every kind of traveler. From the iconic Great Wall to the serene Li River, China is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the top 20 must-visit tourist places in China, ensuring that your journey through this incredible country is nothing short of magical.
1. The Great Wall of China
A Symbol of Strength and Perseverance
The Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is undoubtedly China’s most iconic landmark. Stretching over 13,000 miles, this ancient fortification was built to protect the Chinese states and empires from invasions. The wall’s stunning architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit destination.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Great Wall is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
2. The Forbidden City, Beijing
A Glimpse into Imperial China
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, was the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning architecture, intricate designs, and rich history.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions within the Forbidden City include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Imperial Garden. Each of these sites offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of China’s ancient emperors.
3. The Terracotta Army, Xi’an
An Army of Clay Warriors
The Terracotta Army, discovered in 1974, is one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. This vast collection of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots was buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife.
Must-See Highlights
The Terracotta Army is divided into three pits, each containing different types of soldiers and artifacts. The detailed craftsmanship and historical significance of these clay warriors make them a must-see for any visitor to China.
4. The Li River, Guilin
A Scenic Wonderland
The Li River, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is known for its stunning karst landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages. A cruise along the Li River offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions along the Li River include the Elephant Trunk Hill, the Reed Flute Cave, and the town of Yangshuo. The region’s natural beauty and serene environment make it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
5. The Potala Palace, Lhasa
A Spiritual Haven
The Potala Palace, located in Lhasa, Tibet, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. This stunning palace is known for its intricate architecture, religious significance, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit sites within the Potala Palace include the Red Palace, the White Palace, and the various chapels and tombs. The palace’s spiritual atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to China.
6. The Yellow Mountains (Huangshan)
A Natural Masterpiece
The Yellow Mountains, located in Anhui Province, are known for their stunning granite peaks, hot springs, and ancient pine trees. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and a serene environment for nature lovers.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions in the Yellow Mountains include the Bright Summit, the Lotus Peak, and the Hot Springs. The region’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect retreat for those seeking peace and relaxation.
7. The Summer Palace, Beijing
A Royal Retreat
The Summer Palace, located in Beijing, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Chinese landscape garden design. This imperial garden was used by the royal family as a retreat from the summer heat.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit sites within the Summer Palace include the Longevity Hill, Kunming Lake, and the Marble Boat. The palace’s beautiful gardens, pavilions, and temples make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Beijing.
8. The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
A Surreal Landscape
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in Hunan Province, is known for its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and stunning vistas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site inspired the floating mountains in the movie “Avatar.”
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park include the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, the Tianzi Mountain, and the Glass Bridge. The park’s surreal landscapes and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
9. The Bund, Shanghai
A Blend of Old and New
The Bund, located in Shanghai, is a waterfront area known for its stunning skyline, colonial architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. This iconic landmark offers a perfect blend of old and new, with historic buildings on one side and modern skyscrapers on the other.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit sites along the Bund include the Shanghai Tower, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and the historic Customs House. The Bund’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Shanghai.
10. The Leshan Giant Buddha
A Monumental Statue
The Leshan Giant Buddha, located in Sichuan Province, is the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is carved into a cliff face and stands at 71 meters tall.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions near the Leshan Giant Buddha include the Lingyun Temple, the Mahao Cave Tomb, and the Wuyou Temple. The statue’s monumental size and historical significance make it a must-see for any visitor to China.
11. The West Lake, Hangzhou
A Serene Escape
West Lake, located in Hangzhou, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes, serene environment, and cultural significance. The lake’s beautiful gardens, pagodas, and temples make it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit sites around West Lake include the Leifeng Pagoda, the Su Causeway, and the Lingyin Temple. The lake’s serene environment and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Hangzhou.
12. The Mogao Caves, Dunhuang
A Treasure Trove of Art
The Mogao Caves, located in Dunhuang, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their stunning Buddhist art and manuscripts. These ancient caves contain over 2,000 sculptures and 45,000 square meters of murals.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions within the Mogao Caves include the Library Cave, the Giant Buddha Cave, and the various murals and sculptures. The caves’ artistic and historical significance make them a must-see for any visitor to China.
13. The Jiuzhaigou Valley
A Colorful Wonderland
Jiuzhaigou Valley, located in Sichuan Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning multi-colored lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The valley’s natural beauty and serene environment make it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit sites in Jiuzhaigou Valley include the Five Flower Lake, the Nuorilang Waterfall, and the Long Lake. The valley’s colorful landscapes and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to China.
14. The Yangtze River
A Scenic Journey
The Yangtze River, the longest river in Asia, offers a scenic journey through some of China’s most stunning landscapes. A cruise along the Yangtze River provides breathtaking views of the Three Gorges, ancient temples, and picturesque villages.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions along the Yangtze River include the Three Gorges Dam, the Shibaozhai Pagoda, and the Fengdu Ghost City. The river’s scenic beauty and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to China.
15. The Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang
A Masterpiece of Buddhist Art
The Longmen Grottoes, located in Luoyang, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their stunning Buddhist sculptures and carvings. These ancient grottoes contain over 100,000 statues and 2,300 caves.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit attractions within the Longmen Grottoes include the Fengxian Temple, the Wanfo Cave, and the Guyang Cave. The grottoes’ artistic and historical significance make them a must-see for any visitor to China.
16. The Hanging Temple, Datong
A Marvel of Engineering
The Hanging Temple, located in Datong, is a unique architectural marvel built into a cliff face. This ancient temple is known for its stunning location, intricate design, and religious significance.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions within the Hanging Temple include the various halls, statues, and inscriptions. The temple’s unique location and architectural brilliance make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to China.
17. The Yungang Grottoes, Datong
A Treasure of Buddhist Art
The Yungang Grottoes, located in Datong, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their stunning Buddhist sculptures and carvings. These ancient grottoes contain over 51,000 statues and 252 caves.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit attractions within the Yungang Grottoes include the Tanyao Five Caves, the Five Hu Statues, and the various murals and sculptures. The grottoes’ artistic and historical significance make them a must-see for any visitor to China.
18. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
A Sanctuary for Pandas
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, located in Chengdu, is a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas. This research base offers visitors the opportunity to see these adorable creatures up close and learn about their conservation.
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions within the research base include the Panda Nursery, the Panda Kitchen, and the various enclosures. The base’s focus on conservation and education makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler to China.
19. The Tulou Buildings, Fujian
A Unique Architectural Style
The Tulou Buildings, located in Fujian Province, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their unique circular design and communal living arrangements. These ancient buildings were constructed by the Hakka people and are a testament to their ingenuity and resilience.
Must-Visit Sites
Some of the must-visit attractions within the Tulou Buildings include the Chengqi Lou, the Zhencheng Lou, and the various communal halls. The buildings’ unique architecture and cultural significance make them a must-see for any visitor to China.
20. The Wulingyuan Scenic Area
A Natural Wonder
The Wulingyuan Scenic Area, located in Hunan Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning sandstone pillars, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas. This scenic area inspired the floating mountains in the movie “Avatar.”
Key Attractions
Some of the must-visit attractions in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area include the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, the Tianzi Mountain, and the Golden Whip Stream. The area’s surreal landscapes and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Conclusion
China, with its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of tourist destinations that cater to every kind of traveler. From the iconic Great Wall to the serene Li River, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure enthusiast, China has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the top 20 must-visit tourist places in China, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
