Best Places to Visit in China

China is one of those countries that feels like several worlds stitched into one. In one trip, you can walk through imperial palaces, hike dramatic mountains that inspired ancient paintings, eat street food that changes from one neighborhood to the next, and ride high-speed trains that make long distances feel surprisingly easy.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler planning a classic itinerary or a repeat visitor hunting for underrated places, China offers an endless mix of history, modern skylines, spiritual sites, and jaw-dropping natural beauty.

This guide covers the best places to visit in China, including must-see cities, iconic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, cultural towns, and unique experiences.

Why China Is Worth Visiting at Least Once

China isn’t just big in size, it’s big in variety.

You can explore:

Ancient history: dynasties, temples, palaces, and UNESCO sites
Modern cities: futuristic skylines, luxury shopping, and tech-driven life
Nature escapes: mountains, rivers, deserts, rice terraces, and national parks
Food culture: regional cuisines that taste completely different across provinces
Cultural depth: festivals, traditions, martial arts, calligraphy, tea ceremonies

If you’re wondering what to see in China, the short answer is: a lot. The better question is: what kind of China do you want to experience?

1) Beijing: The Best Place to Visit in China for History and Landmarks

Beijing is the heart of China’s imperial story. It’s where you’ll find the most famous historical attractions, grand architecture, and iconic cultural sites.

Top things to do in Beijing

The Forbidden City: a massive palace complex that once housed emperors
Tiananmen Square: one of the world’s most famous public squares
Temple of Heaven: a peaceful place with incredible architecture
Summer Palace: gardens, lakes, and royal structures
Hutongs: traditional alleyways perfect for walking and street snacks

Great Wall day trips from Beijing

The Great Wall of China is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, and Beijing is the easiest base.

Best sections to visit:

Mutianyu: scenic, less crowded than the busiest areas
Badaling: most famous and easiest access (also busiest)
Jinshanling: best for hiking and photography

Best time to visit Beijing: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather and clearer skies.

2) Shanghai: China’s Most Modern City With a Classic Soul

If Beijing is the historical capital, Shanghai is the stylish global city. It’s known for skyscrapers, shopping, nightlife, and a strong mix of old-meets-new.

Top places to visit in Shanghai

The Bund: the famous waterfront with colonial-era buildings and skyline views
Lujiazui (Pudong): modern towers like Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower
Yu Garden: traditional gardens with classic Chinese design
Nanjing Road: shopping street with everything from brands to local stores
French Concession: leafy streets, cafes, and boutique vibes

Shanghai is also one of the best cities in China for first-time travelers because it’s easy to navigate and full of international-friendly services.

Pro tip: Take a night cruise on the Huangpu River for the best skyline experience.

3) Xi’an: Home of the Terracotta Army and Ancient China

Xi’an is one of the most historically important places to visit in China. It was the starting point of the Silk Road and served as a capital for multiple dynasties.

Best things to do in Xi’an

Terracotta Army: thousands of life-size warriors guarding Emperor Qin’s tomb
Ancient City Wall: rent a bike and ride around the wall for epic views
Muslim Quarter: street food heaven with a unique cultural mix
Big Wild Goose Pagoda: classic Buddhist architecture and peaceful surroundings

Xi’an is also an underrated food destination. Don’t miss:

Biang biang noodles
Roujiamo (Chinese-style meat burger)
Yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread)

4) Guilin & Yangshuo: China’s Most Beautiful River Landscapes

If you’ve seen pictures of sharp limestone peaks rising over rivers, chances are it was Guilin or Yangshuo. This region is one of the most scenic places in China.

Best things to do in Guilin and Yangshuo

Li River Cruise: classic route from Guilin to Yangshuo
Bamboo rafting: relaxing and photogenic
Cycling through villages: rice fields, farms, and mountain views
Moon Hill: short hike with a natural rock arch
Impression Liu Sanjie show: outdoor performance with lights and music

Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn for greenery and comfortable weather.

Yangshuo is especially great if you want a slower pace, boutique stays, and countryside vibes.

5) Chengdu: Pandas, Hotpot, and a Relaxed Lifestyle

Chengdu is famous for being the home of giant pandas and Sichuan cuisine. It’s also one of the most enjoyable cities to spend a few days in because it has a laid-back energy.

Top attractions in Chengdu

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: see pandas up close
Jinli Ancient Street: traditional-style shopping and snacks
Wuhou Shrine: history and peaceful gardens
People’s Park: tea houses and local life

Must-try food in Chengdu

Sichuan hotpot
Mapo tofu
Dan dan noodles
Kung pao chicken
Spicy rabbit head (if you’re adventurous)

Best tip: Visit the panda base early in the morning. That’s when pandas are most active.

6) Zhangjiajie: The Avatar Mountains and Epic National Park Views

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province is one of the most surreal landscapes in China. The towering sandstone pillars inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.

What to do in Zhangjiajie

Tianzi Mountain: panoramic viewpoints
Avatar Hallelujah Mountain: iconic rock formations
Glass bridge: thrilling walk with views below
Bailong Elevator: one of the world’s tallest outdoor elevators
Golden Whip Stream trail: a scenic hike through the valley

If you love dramatic nature, this is one of the best places to visit in China.

7) Hangzhou: China’s “Heaven on Earth”

Hangzhou is famous for West Lake, one of China’s most celebrated natural and cultural landmarks. It’s romantic, peaceful, and perfect for travelers who enjoy lakeside walks, tea culture, and classical beauty.

Best places to visit in Hangzhou

West Lake: boat rides, bridges, pagodas, and gardens
Lingyin Temple: one of the most important Buddhist temples in China
Longjing Tea Plantations: tea tasting and countryside views
Leifeng Pagoda: classic viewpoint over the lake

Hangzhou is also a great side trip from Shanghai (easy by high-speed train).

8) Suzhou: Classical Gardens and Ancient Water Town Charm

Suzhou is often called the “Venice of the East”, and it’s known for canals, silk culture, and classical Chinese gardens.

Best things to do in Suzhou

Humble Administrator’s Garden (UNESCO-style garden design)
Lingering Garden
Pingjiang Road: canalside street with snacks and local shops
Suzhou Museum: architecture lovers will enjoy it

Suzhou is ideal if you want a softer, more traditional experience without leaving the comfort of modern transport and city services.

9) Lijiang: A Fairytale Old Town in Yunnan

If you’re dreaming of cobbled streets, mountain backdrops, and traditional architecture, Lijiang is a beautiful place to visit in China.

Highlights of Lijiang

Lijiang Old Town: UNESCO-style charm with canals and lantern-lit streets
Black Dragon Pool: postcard view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Naxi culture: local traditions, music, and art
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: cable cars and high-altitude scenery

Lijiang is popular, but still magical, especially in the early morning before the crowds.

10) Shangri-La: High-Altitude Tibetan Culture and Himalayan Vibes

Located in northwest Yunnan, Shangri-La feels like a different world. It offers Tibetan-influenced culture, monasteries, and stunning landscapes.

Top things to do in Shangri-La

Songzanlin Monastery: often called “Little Potala Palace”
Pudacuo National Park: lakes, forests, and wildlife
Old Town: quieter than Lijiang and very scenic
Local Tibetan food: butter tea, yak dishes, and barley-based meals

Tip: Give yourself time to adjust to altitude if you’re sensitive.

11) Hong Kong: Skyscrapers, Shopping, and Incredible Views

Although it has a different vibe from mainland China, Hong Kong remains one of the most exciting destinations to visit.

Best places to visit in Hong Kong

Victoria Peak: best city view
Tsim Sha Tsui promenade: skyline views across the harbor
Temple Street Night Market: shopping and street food
Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha): peaceful and iconic
Disneyland or Ocean Park: great for families

Hong Kong is perfect for travelers who love city energy, food culture, and fast-paced sightseeing.

12) Macau: A Quick Cultural Twist With Portuguese Influence

Macau is a fascinating mix of Chinese heritage and Portuguese colonial history. It’s small but full of character.

Top attractions in Macau

Ruins of St. Paul’s
Senado Square
Macau Tower
Macanese cuisine (try egg tarts and African chicken)

Macau is also known for casinos, but it’s worth visiting even if you’re not into gambling.

13) Tibet (Lhasa): Spiritual Culture and Sacred Landscapes

If you want a deeply cultural and spiritual travel experience, Tibet is one of the most unforgettable places to visit in China. The landscapes are huge, the monasteries are powerful, and the atmosphere is unlike anywhere else.

Best places to visit in Lhasa

Potala Palace: iconic Tibetan architecture and history
Jokhang Temple: one of the most sacred sites
Barkhor Street: local life, markets, and pilgrim routes
Sera Monastery: known for monk debates

Important note: Travel permits and guided tours may be required for Tibet depending on current rules, so plan ahead.

14) Harbin: China’s Ice and Snow Wonderland

If you’re visiting China in winter, Harbin is a top destination. It’s famous for its Ice and Snow Festival, where giant ice sculptures light up the city.

Best things to do in Harbin

Ice and Snow World: massive illuminated ice buildings
Saint Sophia Cathedral: Russian-influenced architecture
Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie): winter shopping and snacks
Skiing nearby: winter sports and snow fun

Harbin is one of the best places in China for cold-weather travelers.

15) Huangshan (Yellow Mountain): China’s Most Iconic Mountain Scenery

Huangshan is legendary in Chinese art and poetry. It’s known for granite peaks, pine trees, seas of clouds, and sunrise views.

Top experiences in Huangshan

Sunrise hike or cable car ride
Stay overnight on the mountain for early morning views
Hot springs nearby
Ancient villages like Hongcun and Xidi (great for photos)

If you love mountain scenery, Huangshan is a must.

16) Jiuzhaigou Valley: Fairy-Tale Lakes and Waterfalls

Located in Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou is one of the most beautiful nature destinations in China. It’s known for colorful lakes, waterfalls, and forest landscapes.

Why visit Jiuzhaigou

Turquoise and emerald lakes
Multi-level waterfalls
Autumn colors that look unreal
Peaceful trails and viewpoints

This is a perfect place for photographers and nature lovers.

17) The Silk Road (Gansu & Xinjiang): Desert Landscapes and Ancient Trade Routes

For travelers who want something different from the usual China routes, the Silk Road regions are unforgettable. Think deserts, caves, ancient forts, and multicultural cities.

Best places along the Silk Road

Dunhuang: Mogao Caves and desert scenery
Crescent Lake: oasis in the sand dunes
Jiayuguan Pass: western end of the Great Wall
Turpan: grape valleys and ancient ruins
Kashgar: one of the most culturally unique cities in China

This route feels adventurous and is ideal for experienced travelers.

18) Nanjing: A Historic City With a Calm Vibe

Nanjing often gets overlooked compared to Beijing or Shanghai, but it’s one of the most historically significant cities in China and surprisingly enjoyable to explore.

Top attractions in Nanjing

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
Nanjing City Wall
Confucius Temple area
Xuanwu Lake

It’s a great stop if you want history without overwhelming crowds.

19) Guangzhou: Cantonese Food Capital and Southern City Life

If food is your main reason to travel, Guangzhou belongs on your list. It’s the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine and one of the best places to experience authentic southern China.

What to do in Guangzhou

Canton Tower: skyline views
Shamian Island: colonial architecture and peaceful streets
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: traditional craftsmanship
Dim sum restaurants: a must-try experience

Guangzhou also connects well to Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

20) Shenzhen: Modern, Fast, and Surprisingly Fun

Right next to Hong Kong, Shenzhen is a modern city known for tech, shopping, and theme parks. It’s also great for quick trips and modern attractions.

Top things to do in Shenzhen

OCT Loft: art spaces and cafes
Window of the World: mini versions of world landmarks
Dameisha Beach: relaxed seaside time
Shopping districts: electronics, fashion, and malls

Shenzhen is ideal if you enjoy big-city convenience and modern culture.

Best Places to Visit in China by Travel Style

Not everyone travels the same way. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you choose destinations based on what you enjoy.

Best places in China for first-time visitors

Beijing
Shanghai
Xi’an
Guilin & Yangshuo
Chengdu

Best places in China for nature lovers

Zhangjiajie
Huangshan
Jiuzhaigou Valley
Guilin & Yangshuo
Shangri-La

Best places in China for culture and history

Beijing
Xi’an
Lhasa (Tibet)
Nanjing
Dunhuang (Silk Road)

Best places in China for food lovers

Chengdu (Sichuan cuisine)
Guangzhou (Cantonese and dim sum)
Xi’an (street food and noodles)
Shanghai (fusion and local classics)
Hong Kong (global food paradise)

Best places in China for photography

Zhangjiajie
Guilin & Yangshuo
Huangshan
Lijiang
Jiuzhaigou

Best Time to Visit China (Season-by-Season Guide)

China’s weather changes a lot by region, so the “best time” depends on where you’re going.

Spring (March to May)

Great for Beijing, Shanghai, Guilin, Hangzhou
Flowers, greenery, comfortable temperatures

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid in many cities
Great for mountain escapes like Zhangjiajie and high-altitude places like Shangri-La
Expect crowds and higher prices

Autumn (September to November)

The best overall season for China travel
Clear skies, mild temperatures, beautiful landscapes

Winter (December to February)

Cold in the north, mild in the south
Best for Harbin ice festival and winter experiences
Fewer tourists in many regions

Suggested China Itineraries (7, 10, and 14 Days)

If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to fit everything in, these itineraries are a good starting point.

7-Day China Itinerary (Classic Highlights)

Day 1–3: Beijing (Forbidden City + Great Wall)
Day 4–5: Xi’an (Terracotta Army + City Wall)
Day 6–7: Shanghai (The Bund + skyline + shopping)

10-Day China Itinerary (History + Nature)

Day 1–3: Beijing
Day 4–5: Xi’an
Day 6–7: Chengdu (pandas + food)
Day 8–10: Guilin & Yangshuo

14-Day China Itinerary (Best of Everything)

Day 1–3: Beijing
Day 4–5: Xi’an
Day 6–7: Chengdu
Day 8–10: Zhangjiajie
Day 11–14: Shanghai + day trip to Suzhou or Hangzhou

Travel Tips for Visiting China (Practical and Important)

A great trip isn’t only about where you go, it’s also about how smoothly things work.

1) Getting around China

China’s transport system is excellent.

High-speed trains are fast, clean, and reliable
Domestic flights help cover long distances
Metro systems in big cities are easy and affordable
Didi (ride-hailing) works well in cities

2) Language tips

English is limited in many places outside major tourist areas. Helpful ideas:

Keep hotel addresses saved in Chinese
Use translation apps
Learn basic phrases like “hello” and “thank you”

3) Money and payments

Many places prefer digital payments. Still, it’s smart to carry:

Some cash for small vendors
A card for hotels and bigger stores

4) Respect local customs

Dress modestly in temples
Don’t touch religious objects
Follow signs in historical sites and parks

5) Stay connected

Internet access can vary, and some global apps may not work normally. Plan ahead with:

Local SIM or eSIM
Offline maps
Downloaded translation packs

Hidden Gems in China

If you want places that feel less touristy, consider these:

1) Pingyao (Shanxi)

A well-preserved ancient walled town with traditional architecture.

2) Xiamen (Fujian)

A coastal city with relaxed vibes and beautiful island views.

3) Qingdao (Shandong)

A seaside city with European-style streets and great seafood.

4) Kaiping Diaolou (Guangdong)

Unique watchtower villages with a blend of Chinese and Western architecture.

5) Wuyuan (Jiangxi)

A countryside escape with classic villages and seasonal flowers.

These spots are excellent if you want something different from the “big four” cities.

What to Pack for China

Your packing list depends on the season and regions, but here’s a solid base:

Comfortable walking shoes
Light jacket or warm layers depending on season
Power bank (you’ll use your phone a lot)
Travel adapter
Sunscreen and hat (especially for mountains and open areas)
Basic medicines and personal essentials
Small daypack for sightseeing

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Final Thoughts:

China is not a “one-trip” kind of destination. It’s the kind of country that gives you a completely different experience depending on where you go. Beijing and Xi’an tell the story of ancient empires. Shanghai shows you modern China at full speed. Guilin and Zhangjiajie remind you how wild and cinematic nature can be. Chengdu feeds you like nowhere else. And places like Lijiang, Shangri-La, and the Silk Road open the door to cultures and landscapes that feel almost unreal.

If you’re planning your first trip, start with the classics. If you’ve already done the highlights, go deeper into the mountains, ancient towns, and western regions. Either way, you’ll come back with stories, photos, and memories that feel bigger than the trip itself.