China is a country with a rich past, breathtaking scenery, and a wide range of cultures. With its bustling cities, historic sites, and spectacular natural beauties, China provides travelers with an experience they won’t soon forget. China skillfully combines modernism and antiquated tradition, as seen in the vibrant streets of Beijing and Shanghai and the tranquil beauty of rural provinces like Guangxi and Tibet.
While nature lovers swarm to the serene West Lake and the otherworldly Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, travelers are lured to the wonders of the Great Wall, the mysterious Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army. China’s thriving cuisine scene, which offers regional specialties like Beijing’s Peking duck and spicy Sichuan hotpots, promises a thrilling culinary trip in addition to cultural treasures.
Team NRI brings the best compilation of the top destinations to visit in China.
Best Places to Visit in China
Here are some of the top places to visit in China. Scroll down to know more!
1. Forbidden City
The imposing presence of a historic palace in Beijing mesmerizes you for sure! For about 500 years, it served as the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. One of the most breathtaking sights in China is the Forbidden City, which is situated right in the center of Beijing.
It was once off-limits to the general public, but today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Chinese royal culture, art, and brilliant architecture.
Places to Visit:
- The Meridian Gate
- Hall of Supreme Harmony
- Imperial Garden
Things to Do:
- Explore the royal palaces and halls.
- Discover the treasures of Chinese imperial history.
- Stroll through the beautifully preserved gardens.
2. Terracotta Army
Among the most important archeological finds in history is the Terracotta Army, which is situated in Xi’an. It was buried more than 2,000 years ago to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife, and consists of thousands of intricately carved life-size warriors, horses, and chariots.
The army provides insight into Qin Dynasty military, artistic endeavors, and burial customs, reflecting the grandeur and power of ancient China. More information on the historical relevance of this enormous funerary endeavor can be found in the on-site museum.
Places to Visit:
- Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum
- Museum of Qin Terracotta Warriors
Things to Do:
- Witness the life-sized Terracotta Soldiers and horses.
- Learn about ancient Chinese burial practices.
- Visit the 3 pits that house the army of the first emperor of China.
3. Temple of Heaven
Emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties would pray for bountiful harvests at the Temple of Heaven, an old temple complex in Beijing. Tourists will find beautiful specimens of Chinese architecture, such as the well-known Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the Circular Mound Altar.
The temple, surrounded by lovely grounds, offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city. In the park, locals can be seen performing Tai Chi or playing traditional instruments. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of Heaven represents China’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Places to Visit:
- Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
- Circular Mound Altar
Things to Do:
- Experience Chinese architectural splendor.
- Take part in traditional Tai Chi sessions.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk through the surrounding park.
4. Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is probably one of the most talked about 7 wonders of the world and with good reason! The Great Wall of China, stretching over 13,000 miles, is an ancient defense system built to protect China from invasions. A top destination to visit in China, Badaling and Mutianyu, are easily accessible from Beijing and offer breathtaking views of the mountainous terrain.
One of the most recognizable sites on Earth is the Great Wall, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its meandering routes are suitable for hiking, cable car rides, and even section slides for visitors. What’s more, The Great Wall of China is the only monument in the world that is visible from outer space!
Places to Visit:
- Badaling Section
- Mutianyu Section
Things to Do:
- Hike along the ancient fortifications.
- Take a cable car for stunning panoramic views.
- Marvel at the history behind the construction of this world wonder.
5. The Bund, Shanghai
Shanghai’s most well-known waterfront neighborhood, The Bund, provides a stunning Huangpu River perspective of the city’s cityscape. This region, which is lined with buildings from the colonial era, is a reflection of Shanghai’s past as a major port for international trade in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The new skyline, which includes the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower, rises sharply in opposition to the old buildings. The Bund is a must-visit location for travelers, symbolizing Shanghai’s blend of modern innovation and ancient charm.
Places to Visit:
- Huangpu River Promenade
- Historical Colonial Buildings
Things to Do:
- Take a river cruise for skyline views.
- Capture iconic images of the city’s blend of ancient and modern architecture.
- Visit high-end boutiques and rooftop bars.
6. West Lake, Hangzhou
One of the most well-known picturesque spots in China is Hangzhou’s West Lake has been an inspiration for writers. It is surrounded by gardens, pagodas, temples, and mountains. Important locations include the Leifeng Pagoda and Broken Bridge, which provide scenic vistas that alter with the seasons.
A boat ride, stroll around the lake, or the nightly light and music spectacle are all available to visitors. West Lake, recognized for its exquisite harmony between the natural world’s splendor and human creativity, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Places to Visit:
- Broken Bridge
- Leifeng Pagoda
Things to Do:
- Enjoy a boat ride on the lake.
- Stroll through the scenic gardens and bridges.
- Watch the famous water light show at night.
7. Yangshuo County
Yangshuo County, known for its breathtaking karst mountain scenery and tranquil Li River, is a naturalist’s paradise. Views of lush greenery, majestic limestone peaks, and quaint villages are breathtaking in this location. China’s calm environment contrasts with its busy metropolis, making it the perfect place to unwind and explore the outdoors.
Yangshuo has a reputation as one of China’s most picturesque areas because of the area’s unspoiled beauty and peaceful surroundings, which have inspired poets and artists for years.
Places to Visit:
- Li River
- Moon Hill
Things to Do:
- Go bamboo rafting on the Li River.
- Explore scenic karst mountain landscapes.
- Cycle through the countryside.
8. Lhasa, Tibet
The city of Lhasa, the spiritual center of Tibet, is rich in religious, cultural, and historical significance. It is home to some of the holiest locations in Tibetan Buddhism, such as the well-known Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, at an elevation of 3,650 meters.
Monasteries in the city, such as Sera and Drepung, are still hubs for Buddhist pilgrimages and study. Visitors can explore the bustling Barkhor Street, a pilgrimage circuit filled with shops selling Tibetan crafts
Places to Visit:
- Potala Palace
- Jokhang Temple
Things to Do:
- Explore Tibetan Buddhism at ancient monasteries.
- Walk the Barkhor Circuit with pilgrims.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the city from Potala Palace.
9. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Renowned for its soaring sandstone pillars, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park served as the inspiration for the floating mountains in the Avatar film. Hikers and lovers of the outdoors will find paradise at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Glass Bridge spanning the Grand Canyon, the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, and the longest and steepest cable car journey in the world up Tianmen Mountain.
In addition, visitors can explore steep gorges, thick forests, and breathtaking vantage spots. Due to its bizarre scenery, the park is one of China’s most well-known natural wonders.
Places to Visit:
- Avatar Hallelujah Mountain
- Tianmen Mountain
Things to Do:
- Walk the Glass Bridge over the Grand Canyon.
- Take a cable car ride to Tianmen Mountain.
- Hike the scenic trails among the towering sandstone pillars.
10. Leshan Giant Buddha
At 71 meters tall, the Leshan Giant Buddha in Sichuan Province is the biggest stone Buddha worldwide. This enormous monument, which is carved into a cliff face with a view of the meeting of three rivers, was created in the Tang Dynasty in the eighth century.
Tourists can take a boat ride down the river to see the Buddha up close, or they can hike around the area to get a better look. The spiritual experience is further enhanced by Mount Emei and the nearby Lingyun Temple. China’s rich Buddhist legacy is symbolized by the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Places to Visit:
- Buddha Viewing Pavilion
- Lingyun Temple
Things to Do:
- Admire the massive Buddha carved into the cliff.
- Take a boat ride for a panoramic view.
- Explore the surrounding temples and gardens.
Wrapping Up
Travelers can experience a distinctive blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks in China, a big and diverse country. China is a top travel destination because of its unique combination of tradition and modernity, whether you’re interested in exploring ancient history or taking in contemporary cityscapes. China promises to amaze and inspire every traveler with its wide range of activities, from gorgeous river cruises in Yangshuo to spiritual trips in Tibet.
The best places to visit in China include the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, West Lake in Hangzhou, The Bund in Shanghai, Yangshuo County, Lhasa in Tibet, and the Leshan Giant Buddha. These destinations offer a mix of historical, cultural, and natural wonders.
Communication can often be a major hurdle in China as the majority of the nation does not speak English. When visiting rural or inland tourist places to visit in China, it is advisable that all the bookings are done in advance.
Yes, most foreign travelers need a visa to enter China. Ensure you apply for a tourist visa (L Visa) before traveling.
The currency used in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB).
Yes, credit cards are accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, but smaller shops and rural areas may only accept cash or mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay).
