Best Places to Visit in China

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Key Takeaways

• The Great Wall of China is a must-see for its historical significance and stunning views, stretching over 6,000 kilometers.
• Hidden gems like Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offer otherworldly landscapes inspired by films, perfect for nature lovers.
• Cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an blend ancient history with modern experiences.
• Travel tips include visiting in spring or autumn for better weather and ensuring you have the necessary visa.
• China’s diverse attractions provide a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation for all types of travelers.

Table of Contents

• Best Places to Visit in China
• Key Takeaways
• Introduction
• Top Attractions in China
• Hidden Gems in China
• Beijing Travel Guide
• Shanghai Travel Guide
• Xi’an Travel Guide
• Travel Tips
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions

China is a traveler’s paradise, with its vast size covering over 9.6 million square kilometers, stunning landscapes from towering mountains to flowing rivers, and a rich cultural legacy that spans thousands of years. The best places to visit in China include a mix of world-famous monuments, scenic wonders, and hidden gems that blend history, adventure, and everyday local life. According to experts, these spots appeal to first-time travelers and seasoned explorers alike, offering everything from ancient wonders to modern thrills.

Among the best places to visit in China are the top attractions and must-see places that capture the country’s essence. For instance, you can explore iconic sites like the Great Wall or discover quieter spots for authentic experiences. This guide covers popular destinations and unique finds, helping you plan a trip full of diverse adventures. Sources for this overview include: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html and https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china.

Top Attractions in China

The top attractions in China are the must-see places that draw millions of visitors each year, showcasing the country’s historical and cultural highlights. These landmarks represent China’s rich past and natural beauty, making them essential for any trip. Let’s dive into some of the most famous ones, where you can experience history up close.

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall stands as one of the top attractions in China, a massive engineering marvel stretching over 6,000 kilometers across northern China. Built during various dynasties mainly for defense, it symbolizes Chinese strength and cleverness. This must-see place offers breathtaking views and a sense of ancient history.

For the best experience, visit specific sections like Mutianyu, which is popular among international travelers for its restored paths, family-friendly features such as cable cars, and scenic hiking trails. Another option is Jinshanling, a half-wild area with stunning hiking routes and fewer crowds, perfect for photographers seeking peace. If you’re adventurous, try Jiankou, a wild and steep section ideal for trekkers. Activities include hiking, cable car rides, or even toboggan slides, and guided tours add historical details. Sources: https://www.chinahighlights.com/greatwall/section/ and https://www.audleytravel.com/us/china/country-guides/the-great-wall-of-china.

The Terracotta Army in Xi’an

The Terracotta Army is a key top attraction in China, discovered in 1974 as an army of life-sized clay soldiers meant to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. This must-see place is one of the world’s top archaeological finds, attracting history lovers with its detailed warriors and horses. Each figure is unique, showing ancient craftsmanship.

Visitors can see thousands of these figures, watch ongoing digs, and stay in nearby themed spots for a deeper dive. It’s a highlight for anyone exploring China’s past, combining education with wonder. Source: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html, https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china, and https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294211-Activities-China.html.

The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square in Beijing

The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square rank high among the top attractions in China, representing imperial history and modern significance. The Forbidden City is the largest palace complex in the world, built from 1406 to 1420, and served as home to emperors for 500 years with over 9,000 rooms of relics and Ming-Qing architecture. Tiananmen Square, meanwhile, is the heart of modern China, surrounded by museums and government buildings, often hosting events and celebrations.

These must-see places let you walk through grand halls and feel the pulse of the nation. Exploring them offers a mix of old and new, from detailed artifacts to open spaces. Sources: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html and https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china.

Hidden Gems in China

Hidden gems in China are the lesser-known spots that provide off-the-beaten-path adventures, offering authentic experiences away from crowds. These destinations highlight China’s diverse landscapes and cultures, perfect for travelers seeking unique must-visit areas. They add depth to your trip beyond the famous sites.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie is one of the top hidden gems in China, located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area with its amazing sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. This spot features otherworldly rock formations, glass-bottom bridges, and exciting outdoor activities like hiking and cableways. It’s a great place for nature lovers to immerse themselves in the scenery.

Visitors can hike through the pillars, cross bridges for thrilling views, or take cableways for easy access. This hidden treasure showcases China’s natural wonders in a fresh way. Sources: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html and https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Jiuzhaigou Valley stands out as a hidden gem in China, a UNESCO site in Sichuan province known for its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. This area includes multi-level waterfalls, clear pools, and forests full of wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The best time to go is autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant colors for added beauty.

Exploring here lets you walk paths around the lakes and enjoy the peaceful environment. It’s a serene escape that highlights China’s untouched spots. Sources: https://www.chinadiscovery.com/destinations.html and https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china.

Fenghuang Ancient Town

Fenghuang Ancient Town is another hidden gem in China, a well-preserved water town with stone streets, riverside houses, and strong Miao cultural influences. This spot offers a slow-paced vibe where you can wander alleys, cross old bridges, and taste local foods. It’s ideal for those wanting a taste of traditional life.

Activities include exploring the charming layout and enjoying regional dishes, providing a cultural depth not found in busier areas. Source: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html.

Beijing Travel Guide

This Beijing travel guide covers a city that mixes ancient history with modern energy, making it one of the best places to visit in China. Beijing is full of landmarks and experiences that blend the old and new, from imperial sites to lively streets. It’s a top spot for travelers seeking a full cultural immersion.

Key Attractions

In this Beijing travel guide, start with the Summer Palace, an imperial garden with a huge lake for boat rides, views from Longevity Hill, and classic Chinese designs. The Temple of Heaven is another highlight, a Ming-era site where emperors prayed for harvests, featuring beautiful architecture. Don’t miss the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, as described earlier, for their historical depth.

These attractions are must-see places in China, offering walks through gardens and squares. Sources: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294211-Activities-China.html, https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html, https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china, and https://www.echineselearning.com/blog/first-time-in-china-top-5-must-visit-places-in-2025.

Local Experiences

For food in this Beijing travel guide, try Peking duck or fried sauce noodles at night markets in hutongs. These alleyways offer a glimpse into daily life. Get around using the efficient subway, and visit in spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.

This makes Beijing a top destination among the best places to visit in China. Sources: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html, https://www.echineselearning.com/blog/first-time-in-china-top-5-must-visit-places-in-2025, and https://www.chinaodysseytours.com/inspiration/best-travel-time.html.

Shanghai Travel Guide

The Shanghai travel guide explores a bustling city that combines modern vibes with traditional charm, one of the top spots in the best places to visit in China. Shanghai offers skyscrapers and historic areas, appealing to urban explorers. It’s a key destination for mixing sightseeing with fun activities.

Key Sites

In this Shanghai travel guide, head to The Bund, a waterfront with old colonial buildings facing the new Pudong skyline, best seen at sunset for the lights. The Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building, has observation decks with city views. Yu Garden and the Old Town provide a peaceful garden amid busy streets and markets.

These are must-see places in China for a blend of past and present. Sources: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294211-Activities-China.html and https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china.

Recreation Options

For shopping in this Shanghai travel guide, check Nanjing Road for brands or local markets for souvenirs. Enjoy dining on soup dumplings and nightlife with riverside bars or cruises on the Huangpu River. These activities make Shanghai a vibrant part of the best places to visit in China.

Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294211-Activities-China.html.

Xi’an Travel Guide

The Xi’an travel guide focuses on a city rich in history as an ancient capital, making it one of the best places to visit in China https://jusha.travel/top-10-must-visit-cities-in-china-for-2025-adventures/. Xi’an is full of old sites and cultural experiences, ideal for history buffs. This guide helps you uncover its hidden gems and must-see places.

Main Attractions

In this Xi’an travel guide, the Terracotta Army is a top highlight, as mentioned before, with its clay warriors. The Ancient City Wall is the best-preserved in China, where you can bike or walk for views. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a Buddhist site with historical importance.

These spots are key must-see places in China. Sources: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html, https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china, and https://www.echineselearning.com/blog/first-time-in-china-top-5-must-visit-places-in-2025.

Cultural Highlights

The Muslim Quarter in this Xi’an travel guide is a lively area with street food and markets, great for trying roujiamo. A suggested itinerary: Day 1 for the Terracotta Army and City Wall, Day 2 for the Muslim Quarter and Pagoda. This uncovers hidden gems in China alongside famous sites.

Source: https://www.echineselearning.com/blog/first-time-in-china-top-5-must-visit-places-in-2025.

Travel Tips

When planning your trip to the best places to visit in China, consider practical advice for a smooth journey. The best times are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for nice weather and fewer crowds in spots like Beijing and Xi’an. Summer works for high areas like Tibet but can be hot elsewhere, while winter has festivals but cold north winds.

For visas, most visitors need one https://jusha.travel/?p=348, so check rules for your country and always carry your passport. Register at police stations or hotels for safety. Source: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html and https://www.chinaodysseytours.com/inspiration/best-travel-time.html.

Transportation includes high-speed trains for comfortable trips between cities, domestic flights for long distances like Beijing to Yunnan, and metro or buses in places like Shanghai. These options make reaching top attractions and hidden gems easy. Sources: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html and https://www.chinaodysseytours.com/inspiration/best-travel-time.html.

Conclusion

The best places to visit in China offer a mix of grand landmarks like the Great Wall and Terracotta Army, hidden gems such as Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou, and city highlights from Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. These top attractions and must-see places provide a well-rounded trip full of history, nature, and culture. By combining them, you’ll create lasting memories in this diverse land.

For your next adventure, plan an itinerary that includes these spots and follow the travel tips for ease. Whether you’re a first-timer or explorer, the best places to visit in China will reward you with unforgettable experiences. Sources: https://www.myodysseytours.com/china/best-places-to-visit.html, https://www.chinaodysseytours.com/inspiration/best-travel-time.html, and https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-visit-in-china.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the best time to visit China? The best times are spring or autumn for milder weather and fewer crowds, as noted in travel tips from reliable sources.
• Do I need a visa to visit China? Yes, most visitors require a visa, so check specific requirements based on your nationality before planning.
• How can I get around China easily? Use high-speed trains for city-to-city travel or domestic flights for longer distances, as recommended in the guide.
• Are there hidden gems suitable for families? Yes, places like Zhangjiajie offer family-friendly activities such as cable car rides and hiking.
• What should I pack for a trip to China? Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring sites like the Great Wall and check weather forecasts, especially for seasonal visits.