China is a country filled with wonders, from ancient history to modern marvels. Whether you’re looking to explore bustling cities or serene landscapes, China has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you through the top 10 cities you must visit to have an unforgettable experience in China.
Key Takeaways
- China offers a mix of ancient history and modern attractions.
- Beijing is home to the Great Wall and the Forbidden City.
- Shanghai features stunning skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife.
- Xi’an is famous for the Terracotta Warriors.
- Guilin offers breathtaking natural landscapes.
Beijing
Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China, is a must-see for anyone Traveling to China. This city has been the center of power for over 850 years and is now a bustling metropolis full of life. It is a mix of modern and ancient, with many cultural heritages, including six UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Beijing is located in northern China, connecting to Tianjin in the southeast and surrounded by Hebei province. The city covers 16,800 square kilometers, featuring both plains and mountains. With a population of about 21.54 million as of 2019, it is a major hub for politics, culture, science, and education.
Top Attractions
- Forbidden City: This imperial palace is a must-visit for anyone Visiting China.
- Temple of Heaven: A beautiful example of ancient Chinese architecture.
- Summer Palace: Known for its stunning gardens and historical significance.
- Great Wall of China: Just an hour from Beijing, this iconic structure is a highlight of any trip.
- Tiananmen Square: A symbol of modern China, located in the heart of the city.
Local Delicacies
Beijing is also famous for its food. The most well-known dish is Peking Duck, a must-try for anyone Traveling in China. The city also offers a variety of other delicious foods, from street snacks to high-end dining.
Beijing offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, Beijing has something for everyone.
Shanghai
Shanghai is a city that perfectly blends the old with the new. Located in the middle portion of the Chinese coast, it sits on the estuary of the Yangtze River, facing the Donghai Sea to the east and Hangzhou Bay to the south. This strategic location makes Shanghai a vital part of the Yangtze River delta economic area.
As a major hub of China, Shanghai plays a significant role in both domestic and international trading, finance, and transportation. It’s not just a popular destination for tourists but also a preferred city for important national and international economic and cultural events.
Shanghai is one of the finest examples of China’s phenomenal economic development. From a small seaside town, it has transformed into a renowned international metropolis. The city is filled with skyscrapers, impressive old and new architectures, and a buzzing city life. There are also many local delights worth discovering.
Shanghai welcomes travelers with its modern urban culture, innovative conveniences, and many interesting cultural and historical sites.
The Bund, a symbol of Shanghai, is the most notable landmark of the city. It offers famous images of the stunning skyline, showcasing the incredible prosperity of the new Shanghai from the waterfront. The area also features clusters of massive western-style buildings dating back from the last centuries.
Xi’an
Xi’an is a modern city that still holds the glory of its past. It has many cultural and historical spots. The city aims to keep its ancient treasures safe, so there is no underground railway here. This helps Xi’an keep its unique, calm, and historical feel.
For those who love Chinese history, Xi’an is a must-visit. It is known as the most famous ancient capital city in China. Xi’an has a history of over 3,000 years, starting with the Qin Dynasty, the first empire of unified Imperial China. In ancient times, Xi’an was called Changan, which means "Everlasting Peace" in Chinese. The city was home to 13 later dynasties and is one of the best examples of Han culture. Xi’an is also important because it marked the start of the legendary "Ancient Silk Road" that linked China with central Asia and the Roman Empire in Europe.
- Big Wild Goose Temple: This famous ancient pagoda is located to the south of Xi’an city. It has a history of over 1,300 years from the Tang Dynasty and interesting stories of its first abbot, the revered Master Xuan Zang.
- Muslim Quarter: This is a lively place of cultural diversity that started from the Ancient Silk Road. It has an interesting mix of Chinese and Islamic culture.
- Xi’an City Wall: Besides the Great Wall, Xi’an’s city wall, first built more than 2,000 years ago, shows the power and wisdom of ancient China.
Xi’an is a city where the past and present meet, offering unique experiences and a rich history for every traveler.
Guilin
Guilin, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of Southern China, is famous for its majestic karst landscape. The city is surrounded by lush hills, mountains, and serene grasslands, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Guilin is known for its many natural attractions, including beautiful caves, unique karst formations, the picturesque Li River, and stunning rice terraced fields.
Cruise the Li River
A highlight of any trip to Guilin is a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. The scenery along the Li River is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. Karst mountains covered in mist add to the tranquility of the area.
Reed Flute Cave
Reed Flute Cave is a famous scenic spot in Guilin, often called "the underground Palace of Natural Arts." Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of uniquely-shaped stalactites and stalagmites.
Elephant Trunk Hill
Elephant Trunk Hill is a distinct karst formation that is considered the icon of Guilin. Its shape resembles an elephant drinking water from the Li River.
Yangshuo
Yangshuo is an inviting attraction for those who love the charming atmosphere of the Chinese countryside. Here, you can enjoy outdoor activities like farming, cycling, or bamboo rafting.
Longsheng Rice Terraced Fields
Longsheng Rice Terraced Fields is a mountainous region in Guilin known for its fantastic scenery of terraced fields, remote tribal villages, and blissful mountain vistas.
Guilin looks like a young lady quietly sitting in Southern China, with the pleasing natural beauty of traditional Chinese ink paintings.
Chengdu
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a lively city located in the heart of the region. It is an important center for the economy, finance, commerce, culture, transportation, and communication in Western China. With a population of around 16.33 million people in 2019, Chengdu is one of the three most populous cities in Western China, alongside Chongqing and Xi’an.
Traveling or living in Chengdu can be great fun. Besides the amazing places of interest, the city offers a lot of inviting activities for visitors and expats.
Top-rated Travel Experiences
- Get a close and personal look at lovely & iconic pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
- Enjoy a day trip from Chengdu to the Leshan Giant Buddha – a UNESCO Heritage Site and a grand religious attraction in Sichuan.
Culinary Delights
Chengdu is a paradise for food lovers. In 2011, it was recognized by UNESCO as a city of gastronomy. The city’s world-famous culinary art is a prominent example of Chinese tradition’s richness. Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spiciness, is a must-try.
Chengdu, as Sichuan’s capital city, is an inviting destination for any culture buff, especially foodie lovers.
Zhangjiajie
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Hunan Province, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This amazing place, known for its tall sandstone pillars and magical rock formations, offers a journey into China’s natural beauty.
Once inside the park, there are several must-do activities:
- Ride the Bailong Elevator: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
- Explore Yuanjiajie Scenic Area: Home to the famous Hallelujah Mountain from the movie "Avatar."
- Hike through Tianzi Mountain: See stunning rock formations and unique plants and animals.
- Walk along the Golden Whip Stream: A beautiful trail through lush forests.
Other top things to do include:
- Walk the Glass Bridge over Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon: Challenge your fear of heights on the world’s highest glass bridge.
- Explore the Yellow Dragon Cave: Discover colorful geological formations and shimmering pools.
- Relax by Baofeng Lake: Take a boat ride and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
For a more peaceful experience, visit during the off-season and consider staying in a hotel within the park to fully enjoy its natural beauty.
Zhangjiajie is about 320 kilometers northwest of Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a unique blend of Chinese and Western cultures, making it a famous business, financial, and shopping hub. The city is known for its countless skyscrapers and cultural diversity, featuring colonial buildings and traditional temples. You’ll find narrow, busy streets in areas like Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Lan Kwai Fong, lined with stores, clubs, and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine.
Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China, located on the eastern Pearl River Delta. It covers an area of 1,104 km² and is home to 7.5 million people, making it one of the world’s most densely populated places. The city was a British colony from 1842 until it was handed back to China in 1997. Today, it operates under the "one country, two systems" principle, maintaining separate governing and economic systems from mainland China.
When you visit Hong Kong, you’ll be immersed in a bustling city life that blends iconic Chinese traditions with global modernity.
Some must-do activities in Hong Kong include shopping, taking a harbor cruise, sightseeing at Victoria Peak, and going on foodie tours. Don’t miss the chance to experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning panoramic views from the top of Victoria Peak.
Hangzhou
Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang Province, is a popular tourist city and can be reached from Shanghai easily. With West Lake, it is known as ‘heaven on earth’.
West Lake
West Lake is not just a visual feast; it’s a playground for relaxation and recreation. Cruise across the lake on a traditional boat, enjoying the gentle breeze and the tranquil scenery. Hike the scenic trails surrounding the lake, breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the breathtaking views.
Thousand Island Lake
Outdoors activities are the draw of this ginormous recreation and resort area – speedboating, water skiing, animal-themed island-hopping, mountain climbing. Travelers can also find excellent seafood and everything from budget cabins to five-star hotels.
Direct buses run from Hangzhou West Bus Station to Thousand Island Lake Town. Buses depart every 30 minutes – then take a taxi or bus to the scenic area.
Nanxi River
The nearest traffic hub to Nanxi River is Wenzhou, a major city in Zhejiang Province. It’s about 23 kilometers away. Major cities connected to Wenzhou Airport by direct flights include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hangzhou. There are nine established drifting routes on the river, ranging from one to 10 kilometers in length.
Hangzhou offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in China.
Suzhou
Suzhou, often called the "Venice of the East," is just 30 minutes from Shanghai by train. This city is famous for its Classical Gardens, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. These gardens, like the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Lingering Garden, are perfect for a peaceful stroll. They are filled with pavilions, bridges, ponds, and rock formations that show off traditional Chinese landscaping.
Suzhou’s gardens are not just pretty; they are places for thinking, relaxing, and enjoying art.
If you visit Suzhou, don’t miss:
- Humble Administrator’s Garden
- Lingering Garden
- Net Master’s Garden
- Canglang Pavilion
- Lion Grove Garden
- Garden of Cultivation
These spots will give you a taste of the city’s rich history and love for nature.
Guangzhou
Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history and modern attractions. This city offers a unique blend of old and new, making it a must-visit destination.
- Historic Sites: Visit the ancient temples and colonial buildings that tell the story of Guangzhou’s past.
- Modern Attractions: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, shopping malls, and skyscrapers that define the city’s skyline.
- Culinary Delights: Savor the local cuisine, famous for its dim sum and seafood dishes.
Guangzhou is a city where tradition meets innovation, offering something for every traveler.
For those interested in exploring further, regular buses and ferries connect Guangzhou to nearby destinations like Kaiping and Hong Kong.
Conclusion
China is a country full of wonders, from its bustling cities to its serene landscapes. Each city offers a unique experience, whether you’re exploring ancient history in Beijing, enjoying the modern vibes of Shanghai, or marveling at the natural beauty of Zhangjiajie. Remember to respect the local customs and try the delicious street food. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a new adventure, China has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-see attractions in Beijing?
In Beijing, don’t miss the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. These places offer a glimpse into China’s rich history.
What’s the best time to visit Shanghai?
The best time to visit Shanghai is in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
Can I see pandas in Chengdu?
Yes, Chengdu is famous for its Giant Panda Breeding Research Base where you can see pandas up close.
What’s special about Zhangjiajie?
Zhangjiajie is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the towering sandstone pillars that inspired the movie Avatar.
Is Hong Kong good for shopping?
Absolutely! Hong Kong is a shopping paradise with everything from luxury brands to street markets.
What food should I try in Xi’an?
In Xi’an, try the famous Biang Biang noodles and the local street food at the Muslim Quarter.
