Exploring China's Top Attractions
China, a land of mystery and enchantment, has captivated travelers since Marco Polo's time. Despite its rapid modernization, China's allure remains undiminished, with ancient traditions and ultra-modern developments existing side by side. The country's rich history is celebrated through well-preserved sites like Beijing's Forbidden City and the Great Wall, which stretches over 6,700 kilometers, embodying the spirit of ancient Eastern religions.
China's vastness offers endless exploration opportunities, from luxury Yangtze cruises to bustling cities and serene temples. Discover the best of China with our guide to the top tourist attractions.
1. The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall, or 'Changcheng', is an iconic symbol of China, extending over 6,000 kilometers. The wall features battlements and watchtowers, with some sections dating back to the 7th century BC. The most visited part is near Badaling Pass, with other notable sections at Gubeikou and Mutianyu.
Location: Huairou District, China
Official site: www.mutianyugreatwall.com/homePage/toIndexEn
2. The Forbidden City & the Imperial Palace, Beijing
The Forbidden City, China's largest structure, was the imperial home to 24 emperors. The complex includes ceremonial halls, the imperial throne, and the Palace Museum with Ming and Qing artifacts.
Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Official site: https://en.dpm.org.cn
3. The Terracotta Army, Xi'an
In Xi'an, the Terracotta Army guards Emperor Qin Shi Huang's tomb. Over 8,000 soldiers, horses, and chariots were unearthed, dating back to 280 BC.
Address: Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
Official site: www.bmy.com.cn/2015new/bmyweb/
4. The Summer Palace, Beijing
The Imperial Summer Palace is a sprawling estate with a lake, palaces, and gardens. Highlights include the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity and the Great Theatre.
Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Rd, Haidian District, China
Official site: www.summerpalace-china.com/English/index.htm
5. Cruising the Li River, Guilin
The Li River in Guilin is famous for its karst mountains and caves. A cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo showcases the region's beauty.
6. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Sichuan
At Chengdu's Panda Base, visitors can see pandas in a natural setting and learn about conservation efforts.
Address: 1375 Xiongmao Ave, Chenghua District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Official site: www.panda.org.cn/english/
7. The Yangtze River and the Three Gorges
The Yangtze River is China's longest, with the Three Gorges offering stunning scenery. River cruises provide a view of historical sites and natural beauty.
8. The Classical Gardens of Suzhou, Jiangsu
The UNESCO-listed Classical Gardens of Suzhou are a testament to the city's ancient garden design, with the Garden of Lingering and the Garden of the Cang Lang Ting Pavilion being notable examples.
Address: 178 Dongbei St, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
9. The Potala Palace, Tibet
The Potala Palace, once the Dalai Lama's residence, is a fortress-like complex with religious treasures and the Jewel Gardens.
Address: 35 Central Beijing Road, Lhasa, Tibet, China
10. Shanghai's Promenade: The Bund
The Bund in Shanghai is a riverside promenade lined with historic buildings, offering a European feel and stunning views of the city's skyline.
Address: Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Wai Tan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
11. Hangzhou's Historic West Lake
Hangzhou's West Lake is surrounded by historic sites and temples, with bridges and islands adding to its charm.
12. The Mausoleum of Light: The Northern Imperial Tomb, Shenyang
The Mausoleum of Light in Shenyang is a UNESCO site with a unique architectural style, housing Emperor Huang Taiji's tomb.
Location: Huanggu District, Shenyang, China
13. Leshan Giant Buddha, Sichuan
The Leshan Giant Buddha is the world's largest stone Buddha, carved into a cliff face and overlooking a river.
Address: 2345 Lingyun Rd, Shizhong District, Leshan, Leshan, Sichuan, China
14. The Hong Kong Skyline
Hong Kong's skyline is best viewed from Victoria Peak or by ferry in Victoria Harbour, especially during the nightly laser show.
15. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, with its pillar-like formations, inspired the movie Avatar. It offers natural beauty and thrilling attractions like the Bailong Elevator and the glass bridge.
Location: Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan, China
