China, celebrated for its breathtaking ancient architecture and rich culture, has long been a top tourist hotspot in Asia. This country, with its deep historical roots, has gifted the world with significant inventions. Today, it stands as one of the most advanced nations in Asia and is swiftly rising on the global stage. But what should you see as a tourist in China? There are countless fascinating places and activities to explore, so we’ve narrowed down some of our favorites.
If you’ve seen the movie Avatar and admired its stunning landscapes, you’re in luck! The natural beauty showcased in the film can be found in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China. This park is filled with unique sandstone formations, in addition to scenic rivers and waterfalls. It also boasts man-made attractions like cable cars, viewing platforms, the glass bridge, and the Hundred Dragon Elevator. And, it’s even listed as a UNESCO global geopark.
Another must-visit location is Guilin, renowned for its picturesque limestone hills along the Li River and captivating scenery. A cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers an excellent way to soak in the area’s natural splendor. Interestingly, a scene from the Li River is featured on the back of the 20 Yuan banknote. Yangshuo, a charming town downstream from Guilin, is definitely worth a visit. Other nearby attractions include the Longji rice terraces, Elephant Trunk Hill, and the South China Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guilin itself is encircled by karst hills, lakes, and rivers and has been a vital political, economic, and cultural center of Guangxi province for centuries.
Shanghai, located on China’s central coast, is not just the largest city in China but also a significant global financial hub. There’s plenty to do in this vibrant city. You can stroll along the Bund for some fantastic photos of the city’s skyline, explore the French Concession to enjoy its elegant cafes and bistros, or ascend the Shanghai Tower for an aerial view of the metropolis. Fun fact: Shanghai Tower is the third tallest building in the world.
Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest canyons, offers an impressive 15 km-long trail with a maximum depth of about 3790 meters. This trail, which isn’t too difficult, provides awe-inspiring views of the mountains and river canyon. The hike typically takes a couple of days, depending on your pace. Afterward, it’s ideal to visit Shangri-la (Xianggelila), a high-altitude city known for its Tibetan culture and stunning mountain scenery.
Chengdu, famous for its Giant Panda Breeding Center, is another popular tourist spot. The center hosts around 80 giant pandas and is classified as an AAAA tourist attraction, the second-highest rating for tourist spots in China. Chengdu is also recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, making it a fantastic place to try the traditional hot pot.
Hainan, with its tropical climate, is a magnet for both local and international tourists. This island is famed for its luxury beach resorts and pristine beaches. But there’s more to Hainan than just beaches; visit the Nanshan Temple in Sanya, an important Buddhist site, or Qilou Old Street in Haikou, which showcases colonial-style architecture similar to that found in Penang, Malacca, and Singapore. The island also features a volcano park for a unique adventure.
Hong Kong, an autonomous territory in southeastern China, is another major global financial hub and a beloved tourist destination. It’s one of the world’s most densely populated regions and boasts the highest number of skyscrapers globally, mostly clustered around Victoria Harbour. But skyscrapers are just one draw. Tourists are also captivated by Hong Kong’s unique cuisine, excellent shopping, fancy restaurants, stunning natural landscapes, numerous hiking trails, and beautiful beaches. All these elements make Hong Kong a perfect choice for your next vacation!