Are you planning your trip to China but unsure where to go beyond the big cities? This post will guide you through the best places to visit in China.
Of course, Beijing, Shanghai, and other famous Chinese cities are on this list. However, I want you to discover stunning hidden landscapes and ancient wonders you might not have heard of. Are you excited? Having lived in China for over a year and traveled extensively, I’ll share some of the most incredible locations I’ve personally visited, along with a few still on my China bucket list. Are you ready to discover real China? 🇨🇳 🐼 🥟
The article is quite long. The table of contents below will help you discover the areas of China you are most interested in or planning to visit.
- General Tips for First Timers in China
- Best Places to Visit in China: Northern China
- Best Places to Visit in China: Central China
- Best Places to Visit in China: Southern China
- Best Places to Visit in China: South-West China
- Overview of South-West China
- Best Time to Visit South West China
- 14. Buddhist Caves in Dazu
- 15. Chengdu
- 16. Giant Buddha in Leshan
- 17. Northern Sichuan
- 18. Yuanyang Rice Terraces
- 19. Erhai Lake
- 20. Dali Old Town
- 21. Lijiang Old Town
- 22. Tiger Leaping Gorge
- 23. Shangri-La
- 24. Xishuangbanna Region
- 25. Mount Fangjing
- 26. Huangguoshu waterfall
- 27. Longji Rice Terraces
- 28. Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
- Best Places to Visit in China: North-East China
- Best Places to Visit in China: North-West China
General Tips for First Timers in China
1. China Requirements to Enter the Country: To enter the country, you must own a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months after your trip and a Visa. The Tourist Visa (L) is the most common and will allow you to travel in the country for up to 30 days. I recommend frequently checking the Chinese Visa Application Service Center website for the latest updates.
2. Download Alipay and Add Your Credit Card (but bring some cash with you!): Everything in China works with digital payments, even in more remote areas. Alipay will be your lifesaver. It allows you to quickly add your country credit cards and is immediately ready to be used.
3. Purchase an E-SIM with VPN Included: If you purchased your phone in the last couple of years, you can consider using an E-SIM for your stay. It’s very convenient, as you won’t have to pay for an additional VPN and have unlimited internet data. If you can’t use an E-SIM, download a VPN in your home country and then purchase a local SIM at the airport
4. Avoid National Holidays To Travel to China: national holidays in China are not the ideal period to visit this beautiful country (unless you want to get stuck in queues). Periods such as the first week of October and the Chinese New Year are a no!
⚡ China Travel Guide For First-Timers: discover more tips to plan your China Travel Itinerary in the best way 🌍
Best Places to Visit in China: Northern China
Overview of Northern China
Crossed by the Yellow River (Huang He), Northern China is the birthplace of Chinese culture and history. For this reason, it also welcomes the majority of tourists in China. While Beijing is the area’s most famous city, the surrounding provinces are home to some of China’s most beautiful landmarks. You’ll find the Terracotta Army in Xi’an and incredible Buddhist sculptures at the Longmen and Yungang Grottoes. Nature adds even more to the landscape, with sacred Taoist mountains like Huashan and Tai Shan, the Buddhist peak of Wutai Shan, and the historic Shaolin Temple. This region definitely hosts some of the best places to visit in China and it’s one of the first you will discover as a first-timer in China!
Best Time to Visit Northern China
North of China: Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shanxi, Shandong, Henan, Shaanxi
The best time to visit this area is early fall, from September to October, and Spring, from March to May. In June, temperatures rise abruptly, and the heat may be challenging when visiting sites. Summer is very humid in this area, and being around all day to discover monuments is particularly uncomfortable.
1. Beijing
Beijing needs no introduction. As the capital of China and one of the largest cities in the world, it’s a perfect starting point for discovering the country. Beijing blends its rich heritage, including numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with a modern global city’s fast-paced, dynamic energy. I love how Beijing embodies the contrasts in Chinese society—where older generations still follow traditional customs, while the younger, fashion-forward crowd embraces globalization. It’s so fascinating! Below, you will find some of Beijing’s must-see landmarks:
⚡ Want to discover more about Beijing’s Wonders? Check out this Beijing Travel Guide: full 3-Day Itinerary for first-timers 🌍
2. Chengde
📍 Hebei Province
🚌 How to Get There: High-speed train from Beijing Chaoyang Train Station to Chengde South Train Station. One-hour journey.
Located about 250 km northeast of Beijing, Chengde served as Emperor Kangxi’s summer retreat, offering an escape from the heat of the Forbidden City. If you’re in Beijing and looking to explore a culturally rich rural area, Chengde could be the perfect destination.
The area hosts the Bishu Shanzhuang, the imperial Palace surrounded by China’s largest regal gardens. The entire structure is surrounded by eight unique temples that blend Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles. The Imperial Palace, gardens, and Temples are Unesco-protected. One of the most notable is the Putuozongcheng Miao, built as a replica of Lhasa’s Potala Palace. If you’re passionate about Chinese and Tibetan architecture or interested in Buddhist temples (like I am), Chengde is a true hidden gem!
3. Datong
📍 Shanxi Province
🚌 How to Get There: High-speed train from Beijing North Train Station to Datong South Train Station. About a two-hour journey.
One of the places I regret not visiting during my time in China is Datong, located 265 km southwest of Beijing in Shanxi Province. This city’s rich historical past makes it one of the most interesting places to visit (Datong was the capital of two dynasties—Wei and Liao, both of foreign origin). The most remarkable site from the Wei Dynasty period is undoubtedly the Yungang Grottoes, an incredible set of Buddhist cave carvings that are the true highlight of this area.
About 65 km southeast of Datong lies the Heng Shan area, one of the five sacred mountains of Taoism. The standout landmark here is Xuankong Temple, often called the “Hanging Monastery.” This structure is fantastic! It appears to defy gravity as it precariously clings to the mountainside, seemingly ready to fall but perfectly stable. As someone passionate about Buddhist art and architecture, I believe Datong and the surrounding areas are worth visiting!
4. Pingyao
📍 Shanxi Province
🚌 How to Get There: High-speed trains run to the Pingyao Gucheng Train Station; depending on which city you are departing from, this could be the easier option to arrive in Pingyao.
Enclosed within the Ming Dynasty’s city walls, Pingyao is China’s most well-preserved ancient walled town. Located 100 km south of Taiyuan, the old town has retained its traditional charm: picture lantern-lit alleys, ancient towers, and untouched temples.
You can still see daily life unfolding just as it has for centuries, with locals hanging laundry in courtyards and elderly women chatting for hours by their doorways. The ideal place for people-watching! In Pingyao, you can walk along the historic city walls, visit significant temples like the Confucius Temple, or explore the old-style streets, uncovering hidden gems. Pingyao should be on your China itinerary if you want a glimpse of what old China once was.
5. Luoyang
📍 Henan Province
🚌 How to Get There: Luoyang Longmen Station welcomes high-speed trains. Depending on which city you are departing from, this could be the easier option to arrive. If you are far out, flying to Zhengzhou and taking a train or a bus is an option.
Luoyang, located 121 km West of Zhengzhou, was one of the most prosperous capitals of 13 Chinese dynasties. Today, its industrial look does not do justice to its rich past. The city hosts several points of interest, including the Luoyang Museum and Old Town; however, the real highlight of the area is outside the city.
I visited the Longmen Grottoes in 2019, and they are one of the most fascinating examples of Buddhist art in China—an absolute masterpiece. Once the capital moved from Datong to Luoyang, the Wei started to carve the grottoes in Longmen. More than 100,000 statues of Buddhas have been carved on a cliff along the Yi River. If you can cruise the Yi River for a complete view of the Grottoes, do it. The view is fantastic!
6. Xi’an
📍 Shaanxi Province
🚌 How to Get There:
Xi’an is a must-see on any China itinerary. It’s a beautiful gem, full of history and vibrant city life. Known as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, Xi’an is home to the iconic Terracotta Army—a massive collection of ancient sculptures that’s truly amazing! The city is surrounded by one of the best well-preserved ancient walls you can explore on foot or by bike. The beautiful Bell and Drum Towers and the bustling Muslim Quarter are the real highlights of the city.
⚡ I’ve told you about my love for Xi’an, in this Xi’an Travel Guide: full 2-Day Itinerary for first-timers 🌍
Best Places to Visit in China: Central China
Overview of Central China
The Yangtze River shapes much of this region, fueling its natural beauty and cities. Shanghai owes much of its growth and international fame to the Huangpu River and is now one of the most visited cities in China. But don’t miss the charm of other destinations nearby—like Nanjing, often overlooked by tourists or Hangzhou‘s beautiful West Lake landscape. Anhui’s Huangshan Mountain is famous domestically for its peaks and photo-worthy sunrises. This area also features the Grand Canal, a massive engineering masterpiece, with beautiful water towns like Suzhou along its banks.
Best Time to Visit Central China
Central China: Shanghai, Jiangsu, Anhui, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Hunan, Hubei
The best time to visit this area is early fall, from September to October, and Spring, from March to May. In June, temperatures rise abruptly, and the heat may be challenging when visiting sites. Summer is very humid in this area, and being around all day to discover monuments is particularly uncomfortable.
7. Shanghai
Shanghai is a city that buzzes with energy. It is one of my favorite places in China—the perfect mix of modern skyscrapers and a culturally rich past. Stroll along the Bund for the iconic view of the Shanghai skyline. The Yu Garden is a classic Chinese garden that feels like a green oasis. Don’t miss the trendy streets of the French Concession, where you’ll find beautiful avenues, stylish cafes, and unique shops. If not enough, you can climb one of the highest towers and skyscrapers to get a different city perspective.
⚡ Discover Shanghai from A to Z in this Shanghai Travel Guide: full 3-Day Itinerary for first-timers 🌍
8. Suzhou
📍 Jiangsu Province
🚌 How to Get There: From Shanghai, his speed trains take around 30 minutes to arrive in Suzhou.
Located just 50 km northwest of Shanghai, Suzhou is a peaceful water town known for its beautiful and characteristic canals and lush gardens. One of the oldest towns in the Yangzi basin, it was historically renowned for its silk production (a great gift option in this area). If you are into old and charming Chinese water towns, Suzhou still holds its old-town past charm.
Head to Pingjiang Road and Shantang Alley for the most beautiful canals in Suzhou. You can also explore Bao’en Temple, Suzhou’s oldest Buddhist temple. The temple’s highlight is the North Temple Pagoda, a structure 76 meters high, making it one of China’s tallest pagodas.
The Humble Administrator’s Garden is the largest and most renowned in Suzhou. Though crowded, this garden perfectly represents Chinese classic architectural beauty: water features, elegant pavilions, lotus ponds, and arched bridges. The Couple’s Garden and Lion Grove (Shizi Lin) offer quieter atmospheres if you’re looking for more peaceful and less crowded gardens.
9. Hangzhou
📍 Zhejiang Province
🚌 How to Get There: From Shanghai Hongqiao Station, high-speed trains take one hour to arrive at Hangzhou East Station.
Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, is the region’s highlight. The beautiful West Lake attracts tourists from every side of China. The landscape is so lovely and peaceful that you could spend days there, just wandering on the lake’s sides.
It’s the definition of Chinese classical beauty: beautiful pagodas on hills, walkways, parks, and gardens. The lake is also characterized by small islands that can be visited. In Hangzhou, you can also see some temples, such as the Lingyin Temple and the Jingci Temple, as well as beautiful pagodas like the Six Harmonies Pagoda and the Leifeng Pagoda.
🌍 TOUR IDEA: One week discovering Shanghai, Suzhou, Nanjing & Hangzhou. This tour allows you to discover beautiful and different sides of China 🌍
10. Zhangjiajie
📍 Hunan Province
🚌 How to Get There: Depending on where you are departing, you can consider flying to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport. Zhangjiajie West Train Station welcomes high-speed trains as well.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has always been on my China bucket list. In Northwest Hunan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not a hidden gem (as the site is relatively popular as inspiration for the film Avatar). The concentration of quartzite-sandstone formations creates one of China’s most surreal landscapes, and of course, its beauty needs no introduction.
It is a place to avoid during national holidays and to be visited early in the morning to enjoy the out-of-the-world view with morning lights. The park comprises five scenic areas that can’t be seen in one day. The area of Tianzi Shan has some of the most spectacular viewpoints. Zhangjiajie is also home to Tianmen Mountain, famous for the Tianmen dong, a hole in the cut through the mountain that gives its name to it. In fact, Tianmen means Heaven’s Gate.
11. Fenghuang Old Town
📍 Hunan Province
🚌 How to Get There: A Bus is the only way to arrive in Fenghuang. From Zhangjiajie, it takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Fenghuang is located southwest of the Hunan province. What impresses me the most about this beautiful old town is the riverside settlement with winding alleys, temples, and stilt houses. Fenghuang is the perfect place to wander without a proper destination. You’ll find plenty of ancestral halls, courtyard homes, temples, and Pagodas to discover within and outside the Ming Dynasty City Wall. It’s definitely worth staying overnight to enjoy the view of the old town coming alive with lights.
Best Places to Visit in China: Southern China
Overview of Southern China
Southern China is probably the most well-known area for foreigners due to the many emigrants who exported good food and traditions worldwide. It is a region of contrasts: ancient traditions, modern energy, and natural beauty. Fujian is famous for its unique tulou buildings and tea plantations, especially in the Wuyi Mountains. Guangdong is home to the lively Guangzhou, combining Cantonese heritage with futuristic architecture and good food! Looking for a tropical paradise in China? Hainan, often called the “Hawaii of China,” is known for its sand beaches and rainforests. Finally, Hong Kong and Macao offer the best southern city life and colonial past.
Best Time to Visit Southern China
Southern China: Fujian, Guangdong, Hainan, Hong Kong, Macao
Depending on which region you wish to visit, the period to choose may vary:
Fujian & Guangdong: From April to June and October is ideal to visit sights. Summer months is usually the rainy season in these regions.
Hainan: The temperatures are highly unbearable from April to September, but October to March is the perfect period to enjoy the island.
Hong Kong and Macau: From October to March, you should be able to avoid the rainy season and unbearable high temperatures.
12. Tulou in Fujian Province
📍 Fujian Province
🚌 How to Get There: Bus is the easiest way to reach the Tulou clusters. From Xiamen, you can take buses to Nanjing County and Yongding.
The Tulou is one of the most fascinating home structures in China. These are traditional fortress-like homes built by the Hakka and Minnan (Fujianese people) during the Tang dynasty to protect themselves from attacks. They were designed for both security and communal living.
Scattered across southwestern Fujian, many tulou are still inhabited and offer visitors a chance to stay overnight and wake up to beautiful rural landscapes. If you’re looking for a truly immersive and local Chinese experience, this is the one! The most popular clusters are near Nanjing County and Yongding, with well-preserved sites like Hongkeng, Tianluokeng, and Yunshuiyao.
13. Guangzhou
📍 Guangdong Province
🚌 How to Get There: Guangzhou is easily reachable by high-speed train and flight. Guangzhou International Airport has several international flights, which is the perfect point for landing in China if you want to discover the South.
Guangzhou is one of the most vibrant cities in China. If you thought Shanghai was unique, well you should visit Guangzhou first. With a rich past, this city offers both historical landmarks and modernity.
The Canton Tower lights up the skyline of Guangzhou at night, and the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a stunning 19th-century structure, displays traditional Chinese art and architecture. Shamian Island offers an entirely different perspective of the city, with its colonial-era architecture and riverside views. Finally, let’s not forget the delicious Cantonese food, well known worldwide.
⚡ I spoke extensively about lively Guangzhou in this Shanghai Travel Guide: full 3-Day Itinerary for first-timers 🌍
Best Places to Visit in China: South-West China
Overview of South-West China
My favorite part of this country, Southwest China, offers the most beautiful and suggestive landscapes. Here, you’ll find some of the best places to visit in China! Of course, we find major urban centers like Chongqing. However, the fertile lands around Chengdu, the Yangtze River with its shaping power, the Tibetan plateau, the tropical forests in the Yunnan province, and the karst-landscaped hills in Guizhou and Guangxi make it a nature’s paradise. As if this area was not attractive enough, Buddhist art and architecture in Dazu and Leshan enrich it with even more cultural significance. This territory is home to different ethnical groups, from the Tibetan in the northern area, Miao and Dong in Guizhou and Guangxi, Bai in Dali, Naxi in Lijiang, and Dai in Yunnan, creating the most beautifully diverse melting pot.
Best Time to Visit South West China
Southwest China: Sichuan, Chongqing, Yunnan, Guizhou, Guangxi. This area is so vast that the best time to visit changes even within the same province.
Sichuan & Yunnan: As a rule of thumb, Spring and early fall are good periods for this region. January and December are perfect for a Summer escape in the extreme South of Yunnan. Summer is ideal if you prefer to climb the highest peaks.
Guizhou & Guangxi: here, I experienced the worst pouring rain in my entire life, so I would avoid Summer (based on my personal experience). You’re safe in early Fall and Spring.
14. Buddhist Caves in Dazu
📍 Chongqing
🚌 How to Get There: the best way to arrive to the site is by taking a bus from Chongqing or Chengdu, it will take 2 hours from both cities.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of China’s four incredible Buddhist cave sculptures, along with Dunhuang, Luoyang, and Datong. Unlike the others, this site is the most recent, featuring sculpture styles that lean more toward traditional Chinese aesthetics.
The site hosts over 40 different sculpture locations, with the most significant carvings clustered at Treasured Summit Hill and North Hill, where intricate statues and reliefs capture visitors’ imaginations. Of course, if you’re a Buddhist art lover hanging around Chongqing, you can’t miss this place!
15. Chengdu
📍 Sichuan Province
🚌 How to Get There: as one of the most well-known cities in China, arriving in Chengdu is a breeze. High-speed trains and flights are both good options for reaching the city.
Chengdu has a charm all its own, with a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to fall in love with. Known as the home of the giant panda, Chengdu is famous for its Panda Research Base, where you can see these adorable creatures up close. The city is also rich in history, with landmarks like the Wuhou Shrine and the beautiful Wenshu Monastery, a peaceful Buddhist temple with classic architecture.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the local culture with a tea session in one of Chengdu’s traditional teahouses or a stroll down the vibrant Jinli Ancient Street. And, of course, if you’re a fan of spicy food, you’ll be right at home—Chengdu is the heart of Sichuan cuisine, with its famous spicy hotpot.
16. Giant Buddha in Leshan
📍 Sichuan Province
🚌 How to Get There: A High-speed train is the easiest option to reach Leshan from Chengdu. There are plenty of trains and it takes less than one hour.
The Leshan Giant Buddha definitely one of the best places to see in China! This incredible 71-meter-tall stone statue, built between 713 and 803 during the Tang Dynasty, is not just a sight to behold—it’s the tallest pre-modern statue in the world! It’s one of those bucket-list locations you can’t miss. The Giant Buddha faces the stunning Mount Emei, with rivers flowing beneath its feet, creating a backdrop perfect for photos.
But don’t stop at admiring the Giant Buddha! As you explore the surrounding grounds, you’ll encounter numerous other impressive Buddha statues and beautiful scenery that bring this place to life. Take your time and soak in the mysterious vibes of the park! Trust me, every corner offers something new and magical, so keep wandering—you won’t regret it!
⚡ I told you about charming Chengdu and Leshan in this Chengdu Travel Guide: full 3-Day Itinerary for first-timers 🌍
17. Northern Sichuan
📍 Sichuan Province
🚌 How to Get There: Buses from Chengdu are the best way to move through this region of Sichuan, which constitutes a beautiful tour. You can also considering booking private transportation through your hostel, it will be more expensive but more comfortable.
Northern Sichuan is an adventurer’s paradise, and I can’t wait to go back. This breathtaking region has Sichuan’s highest peaks, lush valleys, dense forests, and vibrant lakes. You’ll find more hiking trails here than you could imagine, each offering incredible views and mountain air. The area is home to the renowned Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong National Parks, rich in colorful mineral lakes, waterfalls, and forested slopes.
Further in, Four Sisters Mountain stands as one of China’s most impressive natural areas. And if you’re up for a horse expedition, Songpan is the perfect base. This beautiful ancient town holds onto its rich customs and offers a gateway to even more adventure.
18. Yuanyang Rice Terraces
📍 Yunnan Province
🚌 How to Get There: Xinjie is the best hub to depart from to visit the rice terraces. The best option is probably to book private transport with your hostel. You will spend more but it will allow to make the most of your experience at the terraces.
If I had just three days in Yunnan, I’d head straight to the Yuanyang Rice Terraces—this place is magic. The terraces stretch across 125 sq. km, with layers of green fields on the mountainside, forming a view that feels like something out of a dream. The hiking trails here offer some of the most breathtaking scenery, leading you through terraced fields and villages where locals still follow age-old traditions.
Winter is the best season to visit if you want to see the terraces flooded with water, reflecting the sky in a way that makes the landscape look like a painting. And if you’re looking for specific spots, don’t miss Bada, Duoyishu, and Laohuzui terraces—they’re some of the finest. Of course, rice terraces spread over a vast area here, so plan multiple days for exploration.
19. Erhai Lake
📍 Yunnan Province
🚌 How to Get There: Xiaguan is the best hub to depart from to visit the lake. Here, you will find several buses. Dali is also a good departure point, thanks to the connections with Kunming.
If peaceful bike trails surrounded by beautiful nature sound like your thing, Erhai Lake is your perfect destination. This is China’s seventh-largest lake, with charming villages like Dali along its shores, set against the stunning backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains. Spots like Caicun and Shuanglang each have their own relaxed lake-village vibe.
Don’t miss the lake’s islands, either—places like Nanzhao Customs Island and Putuo Island have great views and plenty to explore. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, enjoy the scenery, and get a feel for the area while biking or strolling through beautiful nature.
20. Dali Old Town
📍 Yunnan Province
🚌 How to Get There: A Bus is the way to get to Dali. From Kunming, several buses go to Xiaguan, which stops in Dali Old Town.
Dali used to be one of Yunnan’s most laid-back and easygoing cities. It’s also considered the place for digital nomads in China. Although it’s more of a tourist spot today, it still holds onto that historic charm.
The three pagodas are its most famous landmark, and they’re some of the oldest structures in southwest China, symbolizing the city’s and region’s heritage. While Dali doesn’t have endless attractions, its location by Erhai Lake, with snow-capped mountains in the background, and the old-town atmosphere make it one of the most captivating spots in the area—definitely a place to take your time exploring. I can’t wait to go and explore this beautiful old town.
21. Lijiang Old Town
📍 Yunnan Province
🚌 How to Get There: you can arrive in Lijiang by air or bus depending on where you are. The airport in Lijiang has connections with the main cities in China. The main Lijiang Bus Station handles long-distance buses.
Lijiang is a must-visit in Yunnan, but it’s best to avoid peak times. Aim for a weekday visit and try to get an early start to enjoy its charm before the crowds arrive. This old town is so beautiful: wooden buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and scenic canals make it feel like something out of a fairytale.
One of the town’s highlights is the White Horse Dragon Pool, which you’ve probably seen in many photos, and it’s as picturesque in person as it looks online. There are also stunning temples to explore, like Puxian Temple and a climb up Lion Hill rewards you with a breathtaking view of the town against a backdrop of mountains.
Beyond the town, the region is also famous for the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. However, Tiger Leaping Gorge might be better if you’re more into nature and hiking. The mountain area tends to be crowded and may not offer the best hiking experience, while the gorge provides a more peaceful escape.
22. Tiger Leaping Gorge
📍 Yunnan Province
🚌 How to Get There: bus is the only way to move through this region. There is one single bus going to the Tiger Leaping Gorge from Lijiang. However, the best way may be to organize a private transportation.
The Tiger Leaping Gorge offers the most beautiful trekking routes in Southwest China. Picture yourself walking under towering, snow-capped mountains, with sunlight mirrored on the river below. The views are breathtaking, and the High Trail is the top choice for a fantastic trek.
Plan for two days to enjoy it—just enough time to take it in without getting too worn out. Along the way, you’ll find guesthouses perfect for an overnight stay, a chance to experience a bit of local life, and better appreciate the stunning views.
23. Shangri-La
📍 Yunnan Province
🚌 How to Get There: Shangri-La benefits from an airport (Diqing) with several flights from and to Kunming. If you are in Lijiang, a 4-hour bus journey is an option.
Shangri-La is where Yunnan really starts to feel Tibetan, with an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the region. The town is home to some of China’s most important monasteries and is surrounded by stunning landscapes—lakes and open grasslands.
Shangri-La has two sides: a more modern town and a historic old quarter where traditional architecture and Tibetan culture rule. The mountains around the city offer plenty of off-the-beaten-path treks, horseback trails, and hidden monasteries waiting to be explored. Many remote spots can be challenging without a guide, so booking one is a great way to discover the most secluded gems.
24. Xishuangbanna Region
📍 Yunnan Province
🚌 How to Get There: Jinghong is the region’s main transportation hub. It offers air and bus connections to the rest of Yunnan. This is also the perfect place to organize a transport to Laos or Myanmar.
This region, at the border with Myanmar and Laos, is one of the most unique in all of China. Its Southeast Asian feel makes it a magnet for travelers (and for me as well!). Known for its sunny climate, vibrant water-splashing festivals, and lush jungle treks, it feels like a different side of China.
The region is home to the Dai minority and is divided into three main counties: Jinghong, Menghai, and Mengla. Rich in both plant and wildlife, it’s one of the best areas in China for spotting rare animals like tigers, leopards, golden-haired monkeys, and even wild elephants. Hiking is popular here, with some of the country’s best trails winding through the rainforest. The climate has two seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
25. Mount Fangjing
📍 Guizhou Province
🚌 How to Get There: no bus to reach this destination. The best way is to get help from your accommodation to book a private driver to take you to the site, wait for you to climb it, and bring you back.
This mountain has been on my bucket list since the first time I saw a picture of it. Mount Fangjing is a sacred Buddhist site and a stunning nature reserve, famous for its rare wildlife, such as the golden monkey, and unique plant species. Its unusual rock formations give it a dramatic look (it seems like coming out of another world), and if you’re up for the climb, the summit has two temples perched almost miraculously on the edge.
The weather can be foggy at lower elevations, but the views are unforgettable on clear days, making it one of China’s most intriguing mountains to explore. For the best experience, visit in spring or autumn, when conditions are ideal.
26. Huangguoshu waterfall
📍 Guizhou Province
🚌 How to Get There: some bus options exist to reach this area. However, timings vary during the seasons. It’s best to organize your transportation with a private driver and the help of your accommodation.
Guizhou is home to one of China’s most breathtaking natural attractions: the largest waterfall in the country, standing nearly 80 meters tall and 81 meters wide. This stunning sight is a must-see if you find yourself in the region. The waterfall is part of a larger national park, featuring fascinating caves to explore.
27. Longji Rice Terraces
📍 Guangxi Province
🚌 How to Get There: There are several bus options to reach the rice terraces. However, the best way is to ask your accommodation in Guilin to organize a private or semi-private transfer to the rice terraces.
A bucket list item crossed for me: the Longji rice terraces are one of the highlights around Guilin. These terraces are unique, not only for their breathtaking scenery but also for the traditional minority villages scattered throughout.
You’ll find the village of Ping’an, home to the Zhuang people, and Dazhai and Tiantouzhai, villages of the Yao minority. A popular activity here is the trek from Dazhai to Ping’an, a four-hour journey with incredible viewpoints. Be sure to download an offline map to help you find the best spots for capturing these extraordinary landscapes.
28. Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
📍 Guangxi Province
🚌 How to Get There: arriving in Guilin is pretty easy. The city is well connected to the rest of China thanks to its airport and high-speed train station.
One of the best ways to explore the stunning karst hills around Guilin is by taking a cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. I can’t recommend it enough. The three-hour cruise offers a perfect opportunity to relax while soaking in the breathtaking landscape and iconic karst formations.
Along the way, you’ll pass charming fishing villages that add to the scenery. Once you arrive in Yangshuo, take some time to wander through the town, which is beautifully nestled among the hills. Although it’s a popular tourist destination, it retains much of its original charm.
⚡ I told you about the beautiful nature in Guilin in this Guilin Travel Guide: full 3-Day Itinerary for first-timers 🌍
Best Places to Visit in China: North-East China
Overview of North-East China
One of the most fascinating aspects of this region is its rich blend of cultures influenced by Korea, Japan, and Russia. You can feel this unique mix in the strong sense of local identity among the people, delicious cuisine, and distinctive architecture. While it’s known as an industrial area, there is also stunning natural beauty: glacial lakes among the highest peaks, lush forests, and diverse wildlife that thrive in this landscape.
Best Time to Visit North-East China
North-East China: Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang
Winters here can be pretty cold, but summer and early fall are the best times to explore the area. Conversely, winter brings its own magic, especially with the famous Ice Sculpture Festival in Harbin and the chance to experience indoor skiing.
29. Changbai Shan Nature Reserve
📍 North-East China & Korean border
🚌 How to Get There: from Baihe, you can catch a tourist bus to the ticket office. From there, you must catch a vehicle for the Heaven Lake trek or the Changbai waterfall. Transport is usually a surprise in this kind of remote locations, but don’t give up, it’s worthy!
In this stunning natural area lies the enchanting Heaven Lake, famous for the legend of the guaiwu, a mythical creature said to live beneath its surface. Surrounded by mountain peaks, this crater lake is at its best between June and September. The lake also crosses the border into North Korea, adding a unique geographical interest to your adventure.
You’ll find beautiful hiking trails (ideal in the summer) and a ski paradise in Winter. As one of China’s largest UNESCO-protected natural reserves, it boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the Siberian tiger.
30. Harbin
📍 Heilongjiang
🚌 How to Get There: Harbin is not difficult to reach. Harbin Taiping International Airport welcomes many international and domestic flights. You can also consider taking a train to Shenyang and then a bus to Harbin.
Harbin is a must-visit destination home to the famous Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival and the world’s largest indoor ski facility! The city features a mix of architectural styles in its charming old streets, reflecting its historical ties to Russia. As you stroll through, you’ll see temples, churches, synagogues, and even a Japanese germ-warfare base, a reminder of its wartime past.
While summer is ideal for exploring Harbin’s Russian and Jewish landmarks, winter transforms the city into an ice wonderland. Don’t miss Zhongyang Dajie, a pedestrian street with buildings dating back to the early 20th century and the stunning St. Sophia Russian Orthodox Church.
Best Places to Visit in China: North-West China
Overview of North-West China
This vast region is one of the most culturally diverse areas in China. Its borders with Central Asian countries have led to a cultural mix of ethnic groups, including Mongols, Uyghurs, Hui, Russians, Kazaks, and Kyrgyz. From a natural perspective, it’s where Siberia meets Asia, featuring everything from dense forests and expansive sand deserts to wide-open prairies.
In the Xinjiang and Gansu regions, you’ll find the ancient cities of the Silk Road, with stunning Buddhist art, historic buildings, and bustling markets. The rich historical past and the humanity mix in this area make it one of the most intriguing in the entire country.
Best Time to Visit North-West China
North-East China: Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Gansu, Qinghai
As a rule of thumb, the best period to visit these provinces is in Spring, from April to May, and from July to October. I visited Gansu at the beginning of October, and the temperature was perfect.
31. Maiji Shan
📍 Gansu Province
🚌 How to Get There: from Tianshui, you can take a bus at the Tianshui Railway Station, which will bring you to the front of the ticket office. You can also take a taxi from your accommodation.
Maijishan, located southeast of Tianshui, is on the ancient Silk Road route and is a must-see for Buddhist art lovers. The caves’ location—nestled in lush, green mountains—is a highlight in itself. This stunning site features 221 caves with over 7,800 intricate sculptures and carvings.
The caves are carved high into the mountainside, adding a thrill to every step along the narrow walkways as you explore. The surrounding Maijishan Scenic Area makes it a perfect day trip, with plenty of trails for hiking, scenic waterfalls, and hidden temples to discover.
32. Labrang Monastery
📍 Gansu Province
🚌 How to Get There: the monastery is located in Xiahe. Xiahe benefits from an airport that has connections to several cities like Xi’an. If not by air, bus is another option, the one from Lanzhou takes from 3 to 4 hours.
Labrang is a fascinating monastery town near the western border of Qinghai Province, located about 280 km southwest of Lanzhou. It’s home to the most significant Tibetan monastery outside Tibet, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. As you wander through, you’ll find golden-roofed temple halls, monastic colleges, residences, and quarters where monks live and study.
The town has that mystique Tibetan vibe, with a peaceful yet powerful energy. While some areas, like the main prayer hall where monks gather to chant, are accessible only through guided tours, they’re well worth it. Highlights include the Institute of Medicine, the Manjushri Temple, and the Serkung, or “Golden Temple.” Remember that photos aren’t allowed in most temple halls, which only adds to the reverence you’ll feel here.
33. Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye
📍 Gansu Province
🚌 How to Get There: the easiest way to get to Zhangye is by high-speed train. The city is on the railway line that goes from Lanzhou to Xinjiang. The railway station is Zhangye West Railway Station.
This stunning national geopark gifts us a landscape in breathtaking shades of orange, yellow, white, and brown—colors shaped over millions of years as sandstone and minerals deposited into the unique rock formations you see today.
Visitor-friendly paths and viewing platforms make exploring the park accessible and enjoyable, with five main observation decks for the best views. For the most magical experience, plan your visit on a clear day, aiming for sunrise or sunset when the colors are most vibrant. It’s truly a place where nature’s beauty shines.
⚡ In this article, I shared all the tips for the best trip to the Zhangye Rainbow Mountains 🌍
34. Jiayuguan Fort
📍 Gansu Province
🚌 How to Get There: the easiest way to get to Jiayuguan is by high-speed train. The city is on the railway line that goes from Lanzhou to Xinjiang. The railway station is Jiayuguan South Station. You can reach the fort by bus or taxi.
This is one of the most iconic images of western China. This ancient fort was once the last major stronghold of Imperial China, marking the boundary of the civilized world and serving as a crucial point on the Silk Road.
The fort is impressive, but the scenery is even more breathtaking, with the snow-capped Qilian Mountains and Hei Mountain as backdrop. Running north from the fort is an early section of the Great Wall—believed to be one of the first segments ever built. It’s a spot where history and natural beauty come together in a truly unforgettable way—definitely a must-visit if you are a Chinese history enthusiast.
35. Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang
📍 Gansu Province
🚌 How to Get There: the easiest way to get to Dunhuang is by train. There is also the flight option. Depending on the season, there are flights to and from Lanzhou, Xi’an, Beijing, and Shanghai. The best way to reach the grottoes is by taxi.
The Mogao Grottoes are one of the world’s most significant Buddhist art collections. Located in a desert landscape, the site includes the grottoes and on-site museums where visitors can explore the history.
While the site has over 700 caves, only 20 are open to the public, and access is controlled to protect these works. Guided tours lead you through some of the most notable caves, like the hidden Library Cave and Cave 96, which houses two 35-meter-tall Buddha statues. Visits are time-limited depending on your ticket, and booking is essential.
36. Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Moon Lake
📍 Gansu Province
🚌 How to Get There: you can easily reach the dunes by taxi from Dunhuang.
Just 6 km south of Dunhuang lies the stunning desert and Crescent Moon Lake, a landscape straight out of a dream. From the dunes, you can watch as the city gives way to an endless sea of golden sands.
Climbing the dunes is a workout, but it’s worth it. At the top, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking view: on one side, the peaceful Crescent Moon Lake sits like an oasis, and on the other, the vast desert stretches as far as you can see. It’s a place that’s truly magical!
I know the list is long, and to be honest, it could have been much longer! As you can tell, China is a country that I love, and there are so many locations that I want to visit and that are worthy of your visit! I listed 36 Best Places to Visit in China in this blog post. The list is opinionated and based on my interests. I do hope this helps you plan your trip to China and discover new locations that you may have never heard of!
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