China is a huge and varied country filled with historic sites, stunning landscapes, and delicious food.
Between the historic ruins of the Great Wall and the futuristic skyline of Shanghai, China is bound to wow and inspire you.
In this list, we’ve put the best 15 things to do in China to help you have an amazing adventure in the country.
Historical and Cultural Sites
1. Walk the Great Wall of China
One of the most famous sights in China, the Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles from east to west.
Why Go: It’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World, giving you a peek into China’s past and spectacular panoramic views.
Tips: Stop by the Mutianyu section for less people. Wear sturdy shoes for hiking.
2. Explore the Terracotta Army in Xi’an
Discovered 1974, the Terracotta Army is an important archeological site in China.
Why Go: With more than 8,000 life-sized warriors, this site provides the most complete glimpse into the reign and burial customs of Emperor Qin Shi Huang.
Tips: Get there early before the tour buses. Pay a guide to learn all the history.
3. Discover the Potala Palace in Lhasa
This mountain-top building is the Potala Palace and one of the most spiritual and important sites in Tibetan Buddhism.
Why Go: To experience the cultural richness and to learn about Tibet’s spirituality.
Tips: Altitude sickness can be a concern in Lhasa, so allow yourself some time to adjust, and dress warmly!
4. Visit the Summer Palace in Beijing
A large imperial garden, the Summer Palace has history dating back hundreds of years.
Why Go: This small city with pretty lakes and stunning temples are a good way to get out of the hectic center of Beijing.
Tip: The best way to take in the views of the palace is by renting a boat on Kunming Lake.
5. Visit the Chengdu Wuhou Shrine
The Wuhou Shrine is in Chengdu and honors Zhuge Liang, one of China’s greatest military tacticians.
Why Go: The shrine is a serene place to visit and to learn more about one of the most significant personalities in Chinese history.
Tips: Spend some time relaxing in the gardens around the area and wear comfy shoes when visiting the shrine.
6. See the Old City of Lijiang
Lijiangis an old town with a vibrant traditional Naxi culture and old buildings and infrastructure.
Why Go: It is one of the best preserved and most atmospheric old towns in China. The narrow lanes brim with a lively local culture.
Tips: Explore the narrow streets to discover hidden courtyards, shops, and local cafes.
7. Discover the Silk Road in Dunhuang
Dunhuang is a desert oasis in the Gobi Desert and was once the western terminus for the Silk Road. The city is home to the Buddhist art in the Mogao Caves.
Why Go: Carved into a cliff, the Mogao Caves feature some of the finest preserved murals and sculptures in China.
Tips: Bring along a guide to truly understand the historical value of the caves.
8. Visit the Temple of Heaven in Beijing
The Temple of Heaven is a stunning example of Ming architectural style and one of the most important cultural landmarks in Beijing.
Why Go: This used to be the spot where emperors would come to wish for a good harvest, but now it’s a lovely park.
Tips: Come early in the morning and you can watch locals doing tai chi in the park.
Natural Wonders
9. Cruise the Li River in Guilin
If you’ve ever seen a picture of Chinese architecture surrounded by beautifully rugged hills, you were probably looking at Guilin.
Why Go: The river cruise, sailing amid craggy peaks and local villages, makes for a tranquil and scenic trip.
Tips: Book an early morning boat as early boat rides have the best light and less visitors.
10. Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Home to enormous sandstone columns, this city influenced the floating mountains of Avatar.
Why Go: The park has some of the most impressive and unique scenery in the country.
Tips: Don’t skip the glass bridge — it offers a real adrenaline rush and a great perspective of nature in the park.
11. Hike Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountains)
Huangshan has unusual granite peaks, ancient pine forests, and valleys shrouded in mist.
Why Go: One of the most iconic sights in China, it boasts some of the best hiking paths.
Tips: Wear solid hiking shoes and be ready for a challenging hike (it’s quite steep) but you won’t regret it.
12. Visit the Yellow River in Lanzhou
The Yellow River, the birthplace of Chinese civilization, runs through Lanzhou, the biggest city in northwest China.
Why Go: It allows you to learn about the river’s history (a river that’s had a big influence on Chinese culture) and to enjoy bowls of the famous beef noodles.
Tips: Go on a river boat for views, and be sure to sample Lanzhou’s yummy hand-pulled noodles there.
Cultural and Traditional Experiences
13. Explore the Ancient Water Towns Near Shanghai
In the surrounding area of Shanghai, villages such as Zhujiajiao and Wuzhen provide insight into the traditional water lifestyle here.
Why Go: Ancient canals, weathered buildings, and a sleepy pace make these towns the perfect getaway.
Tips: One of the most relaxing things to do is to take a boat tour through the canals.
14. Visit the Giant Panda Research Base in Chengdu
Chengdu is where you’ll find the well-known Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center, a great place to visit the animals.
Why Go: The research center in Chengdu is one of the best areas to see pandas and learn more about their conservation.
Tips: Pandas are most active in the morning so go early if you want to seem them eating or playing.
15. Experience Traditional Chinese Tea in Hangzhou
Hangzhou is known for its tea, specifically Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, considered some of the finest in the country.
Why go: This tranquil area surrounding West Lake offers a scenic spot for an ancient tea ritual.
Tips: Head out to the tea plantations around the lake to learn how tea is made.
FAQ
1. What is the best time to go to China?
The ideal time to visit China is in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is moderate and better suited for travel.
2. Do I require a visa for China?
Yes. This is usually the case. Look into what your country requires and apply before you go. Some cities also have short-term visa-free transit programs for certain nationalities.
3. Is China safe for travelers?
Yes, China is for the most part a safe country with low levels of crime. Just be aware of scams in popular touristy areas and practice caution when crossing the street.
Conclusion
China’s rich past and picturesque vistas create the perfect setting for an incredible travel experience. From ancient wonders to modern metropolises, you’ll never run out of things to see and do.
No matter where you go in China, you’ll find something different, which is why it’s one epic travel wish list item.