In this article, we will discuss about Best Places to Travel In China. We cover the most famous places to visit and make your trip joyful.
The ancient way of life, tinged with the flavor of modern wonders else in the bag is China – a place for every kind of traveler to savor.
There are bustling metropolises in China that coexist with pastoral scenery and many more different types of Chinese culture, history, and natural sceneries.
This breathtaking country is so diverse that in the space of one visit, you can walk on the Great Wall and among the balmy Guilin Karst mountains or cycle through colorful Shanghai streets.
City List & Main Travel Point
| Place | Main Travel Point |
|---|---|
| Beijing | Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace |
| Shanghai | The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road |
| Xi’an | Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter |
| Guilin | Li River, Reed Flute Cave, Elephant Trunk Hill, Longji Rice Terraces |
| Chengdu | Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Jinli Ancient Street, Sichuan cuisine, Leshan Giant Buddha |
| Zhangjiajie | Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, Avatar Mountains, Glass Bridge |
| Hangzhou | West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Longjing Tea Fields, Grand Canal |
| Suzhou | Classical Gardens, Suzhou Museum, Tiger Hill, Silk production |
| Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) | Scenic mountain views, Hot springs, Pine trees, Cloud formations |
| Lhasa | Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Norbulingka |
| Hong Kong | Victoria Peak, Star Ferry, Disneyland, Temple Street Night Market |
| Macau | Ruins of St. Paul’s, Senado Square, Macau Tower, Casinos |
| Guangzhou | Canton Tower, Chimelong Safari Park, Yuexiu Park, Cantonese cuisine |
| Harbin | Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, Saint Sophia Cathedral, Sun Island, Russian architecture |
| Kunming | Stone Forest, Dian Lake, Yunnan Nationalities Village, Green Lake Park |
| Lijiang | Old Town of Lijiang, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Black Dragon Pool, Naxi culture |
| Dali | Erhai Lake, Dali Ancient Town, Three Pagodas, Cangshan Mountain |
| Nanjing | Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, Confucius Temple, Xuanwu Lake |
| Sanya | Yalong Bay, Tianya Haijiao, Nanshan Temple, Wuzhizhou Island |
| Tibet Autonomous Region | Mount Everest Base Camp, Jokhang Temple, Namtso Lake, Tibetan culture |
20 Best Places to Travel In China
1. Beijing
With its history as deep and intertwined as the roots of its many cultures, Beijing is a modern, sprawling metropolis with narrow alleys winding between ancient walled palace compounds that stand side by side with some of China’s most ambitious new buildings and infrastructure.
A city that has several iconic landmarks, including the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven, Beijing is culturally rich.
At street markets all over the city — in avenues like Wangfujing —your senses are overwhelmed (sight, sound, taste).
The result is a city where its burgeoning art world (best seen at the 798 Art District) and cutting-edge architecture (like the Bird’s Nest Stadium) reflect its avant-garde soul. I
n this sprawling metropolis; visitors enjoy world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife amidst a backdrop of imperial grandeur and contemporary energy.
2. Shanghai
Shanghai, frequently referred to as the “Pearl of the Orient,” is not just another large city in China; it is a major financial center worldwide. Evidence of its rapid modernization shows in the skyline, dotted with…edic Oriental Pearl Tower and the imposing Shanghai Tower.
The historic riverside area with colonial buildings for a Huangpu River promenade. Shanghai has various districts, for example, the French Concession, that observes a blend of societies and also profoundly established verifiable impact.
Urban explorers will head straight for the city’s vigorous nightlife, upscale shopping, and diverse culinary scene that Havana is synonymous with.
3. Xi’an
The start of the Silk Road, Xi’an is a city rich in history. But the town is best known for its Terracotta Army, thousands of life-sized warriors and horses discovered buried near Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum, with many dating back to around the time of the First Emperor’s death.
The highly intact walls of Xian shed light on its imperial history and are a picturesque place for cycling.
Muslim Quarter: bustling markets and wafting smells of street food, the quarters are a testament to that diversity. History Buffs will also love Xi’an with its deep history and rich archaeology.
4. Guilin
A Bucket List-worthy destination in southern China, Guilin is famous for its breathtaking karst landscape.
This meandering river, which snakes through dramatic karsts, is considered one of the most scenic boat rides in the world.
Between its calm beauty and spark, Guilin features must-visits such as the Reed Flute Cave, with an enchanting exhibition of stalagmites and slag sites, as well as the equally serene Elephant Trunk Hill.
The Longji Rice Terraces, also known as the Dragon’s Backbone, are a short drive away and offer stunning vistas along with a rare peek at traditional farming techniques. Owing to the natural beauty and tranquility, this place serves as a paradise for nature lovers in Guilin.
5. Chengdu
Located in the culture-rich Sichuan Province, Chengdu is definitely a slower city packed with pandan (the most famous ones).
Home to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Chengdu gives visitors an opportunity to get a close-up of these adorable creatures. Its melting pot of style appeals to the gastronome, from its rich hotpot to its street food.
The teahouses in People’s Park, where you’ll see locals drinking tea on hot afternoons, epitomize Chengdu’s tea culture and leisurely lifestyle.
Chengdu bespeaks its blend of history and modernity accented by an unparalleled archipelago of authentic Southwestern Chinese cultural and culinary heritage.
6. Zhangjiajie
Hunan Province is home to the natural wonder of Zhangjiajie, where otherworldly landscapes can be seen.
These towering sandstone pillars in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park are what inspired the floating mountains of Pandora in “Avatar.
At the Grand Canyon of Zhangjiajie, people can take a stroll across the world’s longest and highest glass bridge with a view of an approximately 984-foot-deep canyon directly underneath them.
The park has multiple trails and viewpoints, including Tianzi Mountain and Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, both of which offer magnificent views offered a billion photo opportunities.
Zhangjiajie is a must on anyone’s list of travel destinations, but not just because of its surreal natural scenery — this part of China is an exciting destination for the adventurous.
7 . Hangzhou
Hangzhou, a city in eastern China frequently lauded for its natural beauty, is also home to one of the country’s most historic locales.
Surrounded by lotus flowers and equipped with in-tree teahouses there’s no better spot to while sunset away than UN heritage West Lake, Hangzhou’s crowning gem.
Its tea culture is also world-famous, as can be witnessed at the green, rolling fields of Longjing Tea Village, where visitors are encouraged to see traditional tea production steps.
Towering into the hills, Lingyin Temple offers an oasis of spirituality among some of the oldest Buddhist temples in the region.
Hangzhou itself serves as a serene destination with the natural beauty entwined with its cultural richness.
8. Suzhou
Suzhou, known for its classical gardens and silk industry, is home to one of the most beautiful cities in China.
The Humble Administrator’s Garden (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the Lingering Garden are examples of ancient Chinese gardening design, with complex grounds and calm pools.
Suzhou’s ancient canals, oft-quoted alongside Venice, make for romantic boat tours in the old town.
At the Suzhou Silk Museum, experience the history of this rich silk industry of the city. With its grace and historic flavor, Suzhou gives visitors a wonderful taste of traditional Chinese beauty.
9. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
The legendary Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) in Anhui province, a mountain range, proclaimed its beauty through nature.
Huangshan is renowned for its “Four Wonders”—odd-shaped pines, grotesque rock formations, seas of clouds, and hot springs—and yields a unique view in every season.
From the top, visitors can see both the Land of Jia (Chinese: 家乡; pinyin: jiāxiāng) and beyond. The mountain has inspired countless of China artists and poets who created a large number of paintings and poems depicting dramatic landscapes.
Hikers can thrill treks on the landscape, such as the West Sea Grand Canyon and the peak of Bright Summit Peak (Huang Shan). Situated in Huangshan’s ethereal beauty, this DESTINATION is truly spellbinding.
10. Lhasa
Widely regarded as the spiritual heart of Tibet, Lhasa is a city rich with religious and cultural history.
With the stunning Potala Palace, where the Dalai Lama once lived, dominating both visually and spiritually, Lhasa is loaded with spiritual connection from Tibetan Buddhism.
The Jokhang Temple, a Buddhist household place, and the busy Barkhor Street marketplace are glowing examples of this quintessential Tibet.
But its mystique is compounded by its altitude and the soaring Himalayan backdrop that surrounds it. Its spiritual hub, along with its natural beauty, makes it a holistic place to visit.
11. Hong Kong
The vibrant, booming metropolis of Hong Kong is an east-meets-west mix. A dazzling skyline, majestic harbor, and bustling nightlife are what this city is famous for a town that boasts an experience of its kind.
The picture explains Victoria Peak one of the spots from where you can have an all-encompassing perspective on urban territory and the harbour.
Hong Kong’s mixed culinary environment of dim sum to international foods means a haven for foodies.
The city is more than just Hong Kong Island; the bustling markets in the maze of streets and luxury shopping districts cater to all tastes.
Hong Kong is a vibrant city that combines the best of modernity and tradition, being the largest center for culture and commerce in Southeast Asia.
12. Macau
Macau, frequently referred to as the ‘Las Vegas of Asia,’ is a mixed and dynamic city. Macau – this is a city for those who love luxury casinos and nightlife but also have to be interested in the colonial past of distant times.
Strolling through the historic Senado Square and admiring the Ruins of St. Paul’s gives you an indication as to how its Portuguese past has shaped it.
The food scene in Macau runs the gamut as well, from Portuguese-inspired cuisine to classic Chinese flavors, like the iconic egg tarts and fresh seafood. Entertainment, history & cuisine are a dynamic combination that is found well in Macau.
13. Guangzhou
Earlier known as Canton, the Capital of Guangdong Province in Southern China, Located along the middle coastal line of the Mainland part of the People’s Republic of China. Canton Tower, one of the highest buildings in the world, offers phenomenal views and beautiful lighting(^)(^) World renowned for dim sum and seafood, Guangzhou is a city where any person can have good food.
Examples of these are the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall and Shamian Island, both historical sites that showcase the culture of the city.
A city of antitheses like modern skyscrapers along traditional neighborhoods is Guangzhou, a vibrant city.
14. Harbin
Harbin Harbin is the capital of Heilongjiang Province in northeasternmost China, this is a city notorious for its brutal winters and the truly breathtaking annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. St Sophia Cathedral – a tres cool Russian Orthodox Church – bears testament to the city’s historical ties with Russia.
Architecture on the central street of Harbin, the city where I stayed, attracts millions of tourists every year to see the beauty of Europe in Asia.
Ice sculptures in the winter festival of Harbin, a city that lures tourists from all over the world with illuminated structures. This Lovely destination is also well known for its Chinese and Russian mixture of culture along with the green theme-based winter wonderland.
15. Kunming
THE SPRING CITY – Kunming – the capital of Yunnan Province. A stone’s throw from gorgeous natural landscapes like the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Forest, a dramatic limestone complex that jumps out of the ground.
Kunming showcases its natural beauty at spectacular flower markets and its verdant parks like Green Lake Park.
Influences from the different ethnic groups that live there help to create a rich collage of culture in the city. With its mild climate, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture, Kunming is a resourceful feast for you.
16. Lijiang
Lijiang is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautifully preserved ancient town and amazing natural beauty.
Lijiang’s Old Town is situated around a maze of streets, stone paths, and canals. It contains stunning wooden buildings, all testament to the complex system of ancient waterways, traditional architecture, and Naxi customs.
Nearby, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers stunning vistas and outdoor recreation ranging from hiking to skiing. It is also very culturally rich, with colorful markets and vibrant folk performances. It has a mix of historic buildings, ethnic culture, and green grounds, which make the city a wonderful destination.
17. Dali
Dali is an ancient town, beautifully situated on the lower foothills of the Cangshan Mountain range and looking out over the western shore of Erhai Lake in Yunnan province.
Renowned for its ancient town with historical architecture, Dali is a pure blend of outstanding Bai ethnic culture and beautiful scenery.
Three Pagodas – One of the architectural wonders, a symbol of Dali. You could take a boat and ride around in one of the clearest lakes you have ever seen Erhai Lake, or cycle around the edges.
The laid-back vibe of Dali, combined with its colorful local markets and rich culture, make it an enchanting place for those looking for peace and history.
18. Nanjing
Nanjing, the former capital of China under several dynasties, is a city full of culture and history. The walls around the town, ming-era along with the impressive Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and equally grimacing Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, are a testament to its colorful history.
The choice is between scenic spots such as Xuanwu Lake and Purple Mountain, which represent natural beauty in Nanjing and provide room for relaxation or play. Its modern charm is also owed to the lively markets and arts scene in the city.
The backdrop of history and nature, along with the city’s vitality, makes Nanjing a compelling destination.
19. Sanya
Sanya is on the southernmost tip of Hainan Island, one of the most exquisite tropical destinations in China.
There are so many renowned beaches that a trip to Sanya would be the perfect escape for downtime, sunbathing, and leisure water sports.
At the same time, with its beautiful views and numerous recreational activities available, Yalong Bay and Dadonghai Beach have also given Sanya a good name.
The temperate climes and green lushness of Sanya, such as at the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, make this an ideal spot to relax. 3 SanyaLife of ecstasy at humble beach resorts and exciting night-outs in Sanya make it a heaven for lovers of beaches.
20. Tibet Autonomous Region
The Tibetan Autonomous Region, known as the “Roof of the World,” is a site of great sacred importance and astounding natural beauty.
The Tibetan capital is sprawling Lhasa, which contains Potala Palace, once the residence of the Dalai Lama, and Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s spiritual heart.
The sprawling landscapes of the region, including Mount Kailash and Yamdrok Lake, are absolutely beautiful and provide great trekking spaces. If so, the Tibetan culture has a lot to offer, like its special traditions, noisy celebrations, and one-of-a-kind monasteries. High up amid the peaks with a spiritual heritage of its own, it is a village like no other.
How to Choose 20 Best Places to Travel In China?
Which site you choose to travel to in China depends on your interests and what type of experiences you are exactly looking for.
This may be pretty hard for the history enthusiasts to resist… Come on, Beijing is here, with Forbidden City! Zhangjiajie’s surreal sandstone columns are a dream for anyone captivated by natural marvels, as is the idyllic scenery of Guilin’s Li River.
Shanghai may satisfy the urban explorer, while in Xi’an, travelers might find peace amidst a blend of old and new with its most-visited attraction:
The Terracotta Army. Also, keep in mind the season and temperature of the destination you wish to see – for example, spring or fall is best for most places in China, but if you want winter sports, then possibly Harbin Ice and Snow Festival.
Conclusion
China is so vast and diverse that you’ll definitely find something to suit your taste and style. Regardless of whether you are wandering through the remains of ancient dynasties, gazing at the wonder of nature, or getting lost in the beat of the modern city, China will take you on a journey that will never end.
Taking a cue from this, while exploring this vast land of diversity, you can have an experience that will leave you fulfilled and enriched- planned around what you like.