The profound history and vast territory have endowed China with a variety of ancient wonders, captivating landscape and colorful ethnic traditions, from the undulating China Great Wall to the grand Terracotta Army, from the breathtaking karst landscape along the Li River to the rainbow mountains showcasing unrivaled Danxia landform. In this article, we will explore the 15 most beautiful places in China to delve into the unique charm and allure of each site.
1. The Great Wall of China
Historical significance
The Great Wall of China used to be an important defensive structure against invasions along the ancient borders. Almost all the dynasties had built or reinforced Great Wall sections and the earliest construction can be traced back to Western Zhou Dynasty (1046-771BC). Today, sections built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), with a total length of 8851.8km, are the best-preserved, including Badaling and Mutianyu in Beijing, Jinshanling and Shanhaiguan in Hebei, as well as Jiayuguan in Gansu. >> View Top 10 China Great Wall Sections
Majestic views
One of the most beautiful places in China, the Great Wall stretches out for miles along the rolling mountain ridges, with beacon towers spaced at regular distances from one another. As you hike along the steep stairs, you will be treated to breathtaking vistas of rugged mountains and verdant valleys with the winding walls like a giant yellow dragon occupying the top of the mountain
Recommended Tours:
- 2 Days Wild Great Wall Trekking & Camping Tour
- Beijing No-shopping Group Tour with Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking
2. The Terracotta Army
Ancient warriors
The Terracotta Army in Xi’an, hailed as the “World’s Eighth Wonder”, was created to guard China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang (259-210BC), in the afterlife. Over 8,000 life-sized pottery soldiers and horses line up in the burial pits, reproducing the invincible troops of Qin 2,200 years ago. There are also a vast collection of bronze weapons and chariots unearthed in the three pits.
Archaeological wonder
Xi’an was the capital city of 13 dynasties in ancient China. Qin, the first united state in Chinese history established by Qin Shi Huang, was also rooted here, making the Terracotta Army one of the irreplaceable cultural symbols of Xian.
Recommended Tours:
3. The Li River
Picturesque Karst Landscape
There is an old saying in China that “the landscape in Guilin is the best under heaven” and the Li River strings together the most captivating scenes of Guilin. Without doubt, Li River is the one of the most beautiful places in China, and beyond. Along the river, you will be spoiled with stunning karst landscape with verdant hills rolling away to the distance, casting their reflections on the serene water.
Li River Cruises and bamboo rafting
The best way to immerse in the spectacular scenery of Li River is taking a cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. During the journey, you will feel like being in a scroll of landscape painting with essential sights unfolded in front of you, including Nine Horses Fresco Hill, Yellow Cloth Shoal and scene on note CNY20. You can also take a bamboo rafting in Yangshuo to take in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.
Recommended Tours:
- 3 Days Guilin Tour with Li River Cruise&Longji Terrace
- 5 Days Guilin, Yangshuo and Terrace Field Photography Tour
4. The Yellow Mountains
Breathtaking peaks and vistas
Yellow Mountains, also known as Huangshan Mountains, is one of the prettiest places in China, famous for “five natural wonders” – strange pines, queer rocks, sea of clouds, hot springs and winter snow. Besides, viewing the splendid sunrise and sunset at the peak can also be a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the breathtaking scene would make your trekking worthwhile.
Nearby Ancient Villages
After visiting Mt. Huangshan, you can also enrich your China tours by taking a side trip to the nearby ancient villages, like Hongcun Village, Xidi Village and Chengkan Village. Here, you can have a glimpse of unique Hui-style residences. If you come here during March and April, the old residences with white walls and black tiles will set off with the surrounding rape flowers, offering an incomparable rustic scenery.
Recommended Tours:
- 4 Days Huangshan Classic Tour with Hongcun & Xidi Ancient Villages
- 2 Days Huangshan Private Tour for Yellow Mountain and Hongcun Village
5. The Forbidden City
Imperial grandeur
Located along the central axis of Beijing, the Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is the largest and best-preserved wooden architectural complex in the world, with more than 70 palaces in total. It used to be the living place for imperial family during Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911). Today, grand palaces with crimson walls, golden roofs and glazed tiles still showcase the solemnity of the ancient royal house, and make it one of the most beautiful places in China.
Cultural heritage
Besides the magnificent royal complex, tourists can also take a close look at precious antiques, including jewelry, gold and silver wares, jade and bonsais. Most of them were imperial objects of the Qing Dynasty, which were made of precious materials with top-notch techniques of the time.
Recommended Tours:
6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Avatar-like landscapes
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a one of the most beautiful places in China of unparalleled natural beauty. Viewing from the top, you will be marvel at the surreal scenes with towering sandstone peaks and pillars rising from the valley floor and pointing straight to the sky. Here, you can also have a visit to the symbolic Hallelujah Mountains which appeared in the movie Avatar.
Glass Bridge and Bailong Elevator
Thrill-seekers can venture onto Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, which is the highest and longest one in the world, to embrace breathtaking views below. Taking Bailong Elevator is another exciting experience. The elevator is 335m in height but only takes 2 minutes to reach the top, making it listed into the Guinness Book of World Records.
Recommended Tours:
7. Jiuzhaigou Valley
Crystal-clear lakes and waterfalls
Nestled in the mountains of Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou Valley is renowned as the unspoiled realm of alpine lakes, waterfalls and pools. The glittering streams are like necklace interspersing among primitive forests and shoals. You can also see through the crystal-clear lakes to view the fantastic underwater scenery.
Colorful autumn scenery
Jiuzhaigou Valley is one of the best places in China to visit all year round, but offers its most captivating scenery in autumn. During this period, the valley will transform into a world of colors, including the azure blue of lakes, fiery red of maples, dark green of pines, pure white of the snow mountains…
Recommended Tours:
- 5 Days Chengdu Private Tour Including Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou
- 4 Days Jiuzhaigou & Huanglong Highlights Tour
8. Potala Palace
Symbol of Tibet
Potala Palace is a grand complex presenting typical Tibetan architectural features. The palace was set into a hillside with the highest elevation of 3,700m, which is regarded as the world’s highest. The complex mainly consists of White Palace and Red Palace, with the former one being the site for religious rituals and the latter one the living place of Dalai Lamas.
Holy place Among Tibetans
The palace is not only a masterpiece of architecture, but also a pilgrimage site among Tibetan Buddhists. A large collection of religious relics is well preserved here, including 10,000 Thangka paintings, stupas worshiping Dalai Lamas and various religious instruments.
Recommended Tours:
- 8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Tour
- 10 Days In-depth Tibet Adventure Tour: Lhasa-Gyantse-Shigatse-Mt. Everest–Namtso -Damxung
9. The Yangtze River
Spectacular gorges
Flowing through some of China’s most dramatic landscapes, Yangtze River showcases the breathtaking panorama of Three Gorges, boasting towering cliffs, misty peaks, and winding waterways. Embarking on a Yangtze River cruise is the best way to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. You will also stop at some ancient temples and quaint riverside towns along the way.
Three Gorges Dam
Three Gorges Dam is usually the destination of Yangtze River cruise. It is the largest water conservancy project in the world and offers expansive views of the river.
Recommended Tours:
- 11 Days China Private Tour: Beijing-Xian-Yangtze River Cruise-Shanghai
- 12 Days Ancient Capital and Yangtze Tour
10. The Reed Flute Cave
Stunning rock formations
Praised as a shining pearl of Guilin landscape, Reed Flute Cave is a natural wonder in China adorned with a multitude of stalactites and stalagmites. Illuminated by colorful lights, stalactites of different shapes turn cavernous chambers into a stretch of “primitive forest”, “a giant pagoda”, or even “a crystal palace”, presenting surreal scenes everywhere.
Colorful lighting displays
As you stroll along the paths, each turn reveals a new display of vibrant hues and intricate formations, making the cave a mysterious realm that only appears in fairy tales.
Recommended Tours:
11. West Lake, Hangzhou
Serene beauty
West Lake, hailed as “paradise on earth”, is the symbol of Hangzhou. Considered as one of the most beautiful places in China of both cultural and natural importance, it is renowned for its tranquil waters, verdant islands, and serene pagodas along the lake. The picturesque scenery has been a source of inspiration for countless poets and artists throughout history. Taking a boat ride across the lake is a good way to fully appreciate its ethereal beauty.
Nearby Tea Plantations
As the home of Longjing Tea, West Lake is also famous for the profound tea culture. If interested, you can pay a visit to the nearby tea plantations to learn more about Longjing tea and also take a sip of the refreshing drink.
Recommended Tours:
12. Guilin Rice Terraces
Unique agricultural landscapes
Guilin Rice Terraces, also known as Longji Rice Terraces, is the paradise for hikers and photographers. Cascading layers of terraces are cultivated along the mountain slopes, showcasing the distinctive rural landscape of the region.
Ethnic culture and customs
Villages of Zhuang and Yao ethnic minorities are scattered among the terraces. Local peasants have preserved their unique customs and traditions for centuries. Visiting the villages allows you to experience their warm hospitality and learn about their rich cultural heritages.
Recommended Tours:
- 3 Days Guilin Tour with Li River Cruise&Longji Terrace
- 5 Days Guilin, Yangshuo and Terrace Field Photography Tour
13. Zhangye Danxia Landform
Rainbow mountains & a geological wonder
A must-visit site and beautiful place along the Silk Road journey, Zhangye Danxia Landform is a geological marvel showcasing distinctive charms at different times. You will be marvel at the surreal landscape as the rolling mountains look like being decorated with colorful ribbons against the azure sky and the hues become even brighter under the glory of the setting sun, making it a photographer’s delight.
Recommended Tours:
14. The Summer Palace
Royal gardens and pavilions
Situated in the western suburbs of Beijing, the Summer Palace used to be the summer resort of imperial family in the Qing Dynasty. It represents the summit of Chinese garden architecture with Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake perfectly immerged with magnificent royal palaces and pavilions as well as Buddhist towers. Taking a boat ride on Kunming Lake is a must-do and it offers you a panoramic view of the surroundings.
15. Huangguoshu Waterfall
Huangguoshu Waterfall in Guizhou Province is the largest waterfall in Asia and one of the most impressive in the world. The six viewing platforms allow visitors to observe the waterfall from different angles. The best time to visit Huangguoshu is the midsummer when the currents are the most powerful, pouring from the dangerous cliffs and dropping abruptly to the bottom.
Recommended Tours:
- 4 Days Guizhou Karst Landscape and Waterfall Tour
- 6 Days Magic Guizhou Hiking Tour with Hidden Tribes
16. Yuanyang Rice Terraces
The Colour Palette of Nature
Yuanyang Terraced Fields, located in Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, is a NESCO World cultural heritage crafted by Hani people after more than 1,300 years. Following winter irrigation, 170,000 mu of stacked terraces resemble innumerable mirrors of the sky, reflecting clouds and sunrises. National Geographic declared it to be “the most beautiful mountain sculpture in China”.
With morning and evening temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C on average, Yuanyang Rice Terraces is ideal for taking the most stunning pictures of China and getting away from the cold.
Distinctive Ethnic Culture of Hani
You may discover more about the Hani people’s culture and way of life in the Hani Folk Village of Qingkou. The forest, water system, cottage, and terraced fields are the four components that make up the entire ecosystem. The lcoal Hani people allow you to visit their houses and sample their unique cuisine. Additionally, you can take in the Hani ethnic group’s distinctive attire and enjoy their song and dance performances.
Recommended Yunnan tours: 4 Days Yuanyang Rice Terrace Photography Tour
17. Mogao Caves in Dunhuang
Masterpieces of Ancient Chinese Buddhist Mural art
From the Wei, Jin, Southern, and Northern Dynasties to the Ming and Qing Dynasties in China, the murals at Dunhuang’s Mogao Grottoes are unique cultural artefacts. It ranks first among China’s grottoes due to its vast scope and plenty of substance. Additionally, it is the world’s largest and best-preserved cave art treasure trove.
The murals of the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang depict the scenes of production and labor, social life, architectural forms, music and dance of various ethnic groups and classes in ancient times.
Witnesses of the History
The Mogao Grottoes were built in AD 366 and lasted for about 1000 years after sixteen States, Northern Dynasty, Sui Dynasty, Tang Dynasty, Five Dynasties, Western Xia Dynasty and Yuan Dynasty. With its unmatched frescoes, it is not only a piece of global cultural heritage, but it also bears the grandeur of a millennium of history and serves as a testament to the Silk Road‘s cultural interaction between the East and the West.
Recommended tour: 3 Days Dunhuang Tour with Mogao Caves and Yulin Caves
18. Lijiang Old Town
Unique Architecture Styles
Known as one of the most beautiful places in China, the old town of Lijiang, was once one of the most bustling markets on the ancient Tea Horse Road. The ancient city’s architecture combines elements of Tibetan, Naxi, Bai, Yi, Han, and other ethnic groups to create a distinctive architectural style.
In terms of earthquake resilience, sun protection, rain protection, and ventilation, houses, temples, and other structures are beautifully crafted to reflect local customs and religious beliefs.
Ancient structures like the Five Phoenix Towers, Wangu Tower, and the wooden mansion are the main draws of Lijiang’s ancient town.
Beautiful Naxi Dongba Culture
Naxi culture is concentrated in the Lijiang Old Town. Watching the fantastic Impression Lijiang Show on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, taking part in the local Torch Festival, and visiting the Dongba Museum will teach you about the Naxi history and culture.
Recommended Lijiang tours: 3 Days Lijiang Tour: Cultural & Natural Experiences
China’s beauty knows no bounds, with each destination offering a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage and historical significance. These 15 most beautiful places in China offer an unforgettable journey, from the winding Great Wall to the spectacular Huangguoshu Waterfall. So, do not hesitate to embark on an adventure and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty that awaits in this remarkable land.
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