A China adventure is like no other. With a billion inhabitants, hundreds of different cultures, dialects, and ways of life are crammed into the country, so it makes sense to try and explore as much of it as possible on a China trip – especially if you’re from one of the many nations who can spend an extended period in the country visa free (or you’ve gone through the effort of getting a proper visa). If you’ve got a China tour planned and want to know where to spend your time, then you can take on our list of the 15 best places to visit in China!
1. Leshan
When a country is as diverse as China, it takes something special to stand out as a destination. Leshan has that with the Leshan Giant Buddha, the biggest statue of its kind in the world. Carved out of a cliff face and standing at 71m tall, it’s surrounded by the gorgeous natural scenery of Mount Emei. A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best places to visit in China.
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2. Beijing
You can’t travel to China and not visit its famous capital. With cultural highlights like the Forbidden City and the Ming Tombs, countless cool bars and world-beating restaurants, and enough galleries and museums to be worthy of such a sprawling metropolis, this is one of the most famous cities in the world for travel, and with good reason.
3. Shanghai
Home to 25 million inhabitants, the country’s biggest city is also one of the best destinations in China thanks to all it has to offer. A confluence of the old and the new, with ancient structures and practices alongside a bustling financial heartland and futuristic skyscrapers, there really are few places that symbolise this incredible nation in a better way.
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4. Chengdu
The famed capital of the famed Sichuan region, Chengdu is an ancient city and should be an unmissable part of any trip to China. The stunning skyline mixes snow-capped mountains and towering skyscrapers, and once you’re in the city there’s an endless stream of cool things to see and do.
5. Xi’An
The historic end of the Silk Road and home to the iconic Terracotta Army, when it comes to ticking off famous things to do in China, Xi’An is one of the best places to visit. The city is steeped in history yet also has a thriving modern arts, culture, and food scene. What more could you want?
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6. Longji Rice Terraces
In the heart of Guangxi province lies this gorgeous agricultural marvel. The terraces resemble that most famous of mythological creatures, a dragon, which only adds to their incredible allure. A destination that is of great significance, and shows some of the cultural differences between China and the West.
7. Harbin
The capital of China’s northernmost province and home to an interesting blend of Russo-Chinese culture, Harbin is perfect for snow lovers and those who want a truly unique experience. With diverse architecture and one of the world’s most incredible winter wonderlands, it’s one of the best places to visit in China if you want a special trip.
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8. Tiger Leaping Gorge
Legend has it that a tiger managed to escape hunters by leaping across this gorge, using a rock to bounce away to freedom. Whether or not that’s true can be disputed, but what’s impossible to ignore is how beautiful this part of the country is. If you love hiking, it’s one of the best places to visit in China.
9. The Great Wall
The Great Wall of China needs no introduction. In a country full of unfathomably cool experiences, attractions, and natural scenery, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains the main attraction, and you only need to see it to understand why.
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10. Karst Peaks in Guilin
These jagged rock formations are sometimes referred to as stone forests, and have an otherworldly beauty that has to be seen to be believed. Even if you’re not a big geology person, it’s hard not to be wowed by them.
11. Guangzhou
This modern marvel of a city is known for its cultural treasures and architectural marvels. Highlights include the famous opera house and Canton TV Skyscraper, as well as countless museums and galleries. An important stop off in any China adventure.
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12. Macao
The Las Vegas of China is known for its heavy Portuguese influence, making for one of the most unique cultures in the country, and possibly the world. If you like cool architecture, interesting historical heritage, and letting your hair down, then this is one of the best places to visit in China.
13. Shangri-La
When authorities renamed this city in 2001 to Shangri-La, the region had a lot to live up to. Created by James Hilton in his book Lost Horizon, Shangri-La was a mystical place defined by its ethereal beauty, and this mountainous region in northern China is deserving of its fictional moniker. Full of stunning sites both natural and manmade, as well as a beautiful place to hike, it really can feel like heaven on earth.
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14. Yangshuo
If you’re a nature lover then Yangshuo is one of the best places to visit in China. Full of unbelievable views that are accessed by stunning hiking trails, there is also the opportunity to go boating here and enjoy other active pursuits surrounded by some astoundingly beautiful landscapes.
15. Shenzen
China’s third city is a shopaholic paradise that also has plenty to offer culture vultures and foodies. It’s also just over the water from Hong Kong, making it an ideal stopping off point if you want to check out the famous island.
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What is the most visited destination in China?
The Great Wall of China is the most visited destination in China, with over 10 million people checking it out every year.
Where should I go for the first time in China?
China is full of incredible things to do and see, but if it’s your first time and you’re wondering what to do, a visit to the capital Beijing is a must.
