admin Best Places to Visit in China
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1. Beijing: Where History Meets Modernity
The Forbidden City: A Glimpse into Imperial Splendor
As the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City, or the Palace Museum, is an absolute must - visit. With over 9,000 rooms, it is the world's largest and most complete ancient wooden - structured building complex. The grandeur of the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where emperors held important ceremonies, is awe - inspiring. The symmetrical layout, elaborate carvings on the eaves, and the golden - tiled roofs all reflect the imperial power and the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient China. Wandering through the palaces, you can almost feel the echoes of history, imagining the life of emperors, concubines, and court officials.
The Great Wall: A Marvel Across the Mountains
No trip to China is complete without a visit to the Great Wall. Badaling, one of the most popular sections, offers magnificent views along the wall. The well - preserved bricks and the watchtowers standing on the mountain ridges tell tales of ancient military defense. For a more adventurous experience, Jinshanling Great Wall is less crowded. Here, you can see the wall in a more original state, with some sections in a natural, rugged condition. Hiking along the Jinshanling - Simatai section allows you to enjoy the seamless blend of history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. As you climb up the steep steps, the vastness of the mountains and the long - winding wall stretching as far as the eye can see will leave you in awe.
Tiananmen Square: The Heart of the Nation
Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world. Standing in the square, you can feel the pulse of the nation. The Monument to the People's Heroes commemorates the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country. The Great Hall of the People, where important national meetings are held, showcases modern Chinese architecture. And the iconic Tiananmen Gate, with its red walls and yellow tiles, is not only a symbol of Beijing but also of China. Every day, the flag - raising ceremony attracts a large number of tourists and locals. Watching the national flag being raised with the first rays of the sun is a moving experience, filled with a sense of national pride.
2. Shanghai: The Cosmopolitan Metropolis
The Bund: A Blend of Old and New
The Bund is Shanghai's most famous landmark. On one side, there are the historic buildings from the colonial era, such as the HSBC Building and the Customs House, which reflect the city's past as an international trading port. On the other side, across the Huangpu River, stands the modern Lujiazui skyline, with the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and the Jin Mao Tower. At night, the Bund is transformed into a magical world of lights. The neon - lit buildings on both sides of the river create a spectacular view, making it a favorite spot for photographers and tourists alike.
Yu Garden: A Gem of Classical Chinese Gardens
Yu Garden, located in the old town of Shanghai, is a traditional Chinese garden with a history of over 400 years. The garden is designed with pavilions, ponds, rockeries, and winding corridors. The delicate rockeries, some of which are hundreds of years old, are arranged in a way that creates a sense of depth and mystery. The pavilions provide a place for visitors to rest and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The fish swimming in the ponds add to the liveliness of the garden. In the summer, the lotus flowers in the ponds are in full bloom, filling the air with their fragrance.
Shanghai Disneyland: A World of Magic and Fantasy
For those seeking fun and excitement, Shanghai Disneyland is the place to be. With seven themed lands, including Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland, there are attractions for people of all ages. The Enchanted Storybook Castle is the largest Disney castle in the world. You can watch the exciting parades with beloved Disney characters, enjoy thrilling rides like the TRON Lightcycle Power Run, or watch a Broadway - style show. The park is not only a place for entertainment but also a place where dreams come true, making it a top destination for families and Disney fans.
3. Guilin: A Landscape Straight out of a Painting
Li River Cruise: The Essence of Guilin's Beauty
The Li River is the highlight of Guilin. Taking a cruise along the river from Guilin to Yangshuo is an experience like no other. The karst mountains on both sides of the river rise abruptly from the ground, with unique shapes that resemble various animals and objects. The clear water of the Li River reflects the mountains, creating a mirror - like effect. The section from Yangdi to Xingping is particularly famous, as it is the scene depicted on the back of the 20 - yuan RMB note. During the cruise, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, the gentle breeze, and the tranquility of the river.
Yangshuo: A Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Yangshuo, located at the end of the Li River cruise, is a small town surrounded by stunning landscapes. It is a paradise for outdoor activities. You can go cycling along the countryside roads, passing by rice paddies, small villages, and karst mountains. The Yulong River is also a great place for bamboo rafting. The slow - paced rafting allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery up close. In the evening, Yangshuo's West Street comes alive. The street is filled with bars, restaurants, and shops, offering a unique blend of Chinese and Western cultures.
Longji Rice Terraces: A Man - made Wonder
The Longji Rice Terraces, about 80 kilometers from Guilin, are a spectacular man - made wonder. Built by the Zhuang and Yao ethnic groups over hundreds of years, the terraces wind around the mountains like giant steps. In the spring, the terraces are filled with water, reflecting the sky and creating a beautiful mirror - like effect. In the summer, the green rice plants cover the terraces, making them look like a vast green ocean. In the autumn, when the rice is ripe, the terraces turn golden, presenting a magnificent harvest scene. Hiking up the terraces, you can also visit the local ethnic villages, learn about their unique culture and traditions, and taste their local cuisine.
4. Xi'an: The Cradle of Chinese Civilization
Terracotta Army: An Army of Warriors Underground
The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. Discovered in 1974, these life - sized clay sculptures were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang to protect him in the afterlife. The first pit, the largest of the three pits, contains thousands of terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots, arranged in a battle formation. Each warrior has a unique facial expression, hairstyle, and clothing, reflecting the high - level craftsmanship of the Qin Dynasty. Visiting the Terracotta Army Museum, you can not only admire these amazing sculptures but also learn about the history and culture of the Qin Dynasty.
City Wall of Xi'an: A Well - Preserved Ancient Defense
The City Wall of Xi'an is one of the largest and best - preserved ancient city walls in China. Built in the 14th century, it has a circumference of about 14 kilometers. You can rent a bicycle and ride around the wall, enjoying the views of the city inside and outside the wall. Inside the wall, you can see the traditional Chinese architecture, narrow alleys, and bustling markets. Outside the wall, there is a moat and a park. The wall also has several gates, such as the South Gate, which is often used for important ceremonies. Standing on the wall, you can imagine the city's past as an important military and political center.
Shaanxi History Museum: A Treasure Trove of Chinese History
The Shaanxi History Museum is a must - visit for history buffs. It houses over 370,000 artifacts, ranging from pre - historic times to the Qing Dynasty. The museum's collection includes bronze ware, pottery, jade, and paintings. Some of the highlights are the Tang - Dynasty tri - colored glazed pottery, which is famous for its bright colors and unique shapes, and the bronze ware from the Zhou Dynasty, with its elaborate inscriptions and designs. The museum's architecture is also worth noting, as it combines traditional Chinese elements with modern design, creating a harmonious environment for displaying the precious artifacts.
5. Chengdu: The City of Gastronomy and Pandas
Giant Panda Breeding Research Base: Get Close to the Adorable Pandas
The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu is the most popular place to see pandas. Here, you can watch the pandas in their natural - like habitats. The pandas are either munching on bamboo, playing with each other, or taking a nap. The base also has a nursery where you can see the cute baby pandas. The staff at the base are dedicated to the research and conservation of pandas. You can learn about the pandas' living habits, breeding process, and the efforts made to protect these endangered animals. It's an experience that will melt your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Jinli Ancient Street: A Feast for the Senses
Jinli Ancient Street is a great place to experience the traditional Sichuan culture. The street is lined with traditional Chinese buildings, and there are many shops selling handicrafts, traditional snacks, and souvenirs. You can try some of the famous Sichuan snacks, such as spicy hot pot, dan - dan noodles, and sugar - coated haws. There are also performances of traditional Sichuan opera, shadow puppetry, and acrobatics. Walking along the street, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere, the smell of delicious food, and the beautiful traditional architecture.
Wuhou Temple: A Memorial to a Great Statesman
Wuhou Temple is a memorial temple dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous statesman and strategist during the Three Kingdoms period. The temple is a complex of ancient buildings, with pavilions, halls, and gardens. The main hall houses a statue of Zhuge Liang, along with statues of other important figures from the Three Kingdoms period. The temple also has many inscriptions and steles, which record the history and stories of that period. Visiting Wuhou Temple, you can learn about the history and culture of the Three Kingdoms period and pay tribute to the great wisdom of Zhuge Liang.
6. Lijiang: A Town of Serenity and Beauty
Lijiang Ancient Town: A Living Heritage
Lijiang Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is built along the Yulong Snow Mountain and is criss - crossed by canals. The cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi - style wooden houses, and the flowing water create a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere. The town has a long history, and you can still see the influence of the Naxi ethnic group's culture. There are many shops, restaurants, and bars in the town, but they blend well with the traditional architecture. In the evening, the lanterns along the streets are lit, making the town even more charming. You can also watch the traditional Naxi music and dance performances, which are an important part of the local culture.
Yulong Snow Mountain: A Majestic Peak
Yulong Snow Mountain, located just outside Lijiang, is a majestic mountain range. The 13 peaks of the mountain range are covered with snow all year round, looking like a silver dragon lying on the ground. You can take a cable car to reach a high altitude and enjoy the magnificent views of the snow - capped mountains, the alpine meadows, and the glaciers. There are also hiking trails around the mountain for those who are more adventurous. The mountain is also of great religious significance to the local Naxi people, and there are some temples and shrines on the mountain.
Tiger Leaping Gorge: A Thrilling Natural Wonder
Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the world's deepest gorges. The Jinsha River rushes through the narrow gorge, with huge boulders in the river. The name of the gorge comes from a legend that a tiger once leaped across the river using the boulders. There are two hiking trails, the upper trail and the middle trail. The middle trail offers more spectacular views of the gorge, with the roaring river below and the steep cliffs on both sides. Hiking through the gorge, you can feel the power of nature and the thrill of adventure. It's a challenging but rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Zhangjiajie: A World of Fantasy and Adventure
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: A Wonderland of Sandstone Pillars
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is famous for its unique sandstone pillar landscape. The park is home to thousands of sandstone pillars, some of which are hundreds of meters high. These pillars were formed over millions of years by the erosion of wind and water. The most famous pillar is the "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain," which was the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." You can take a cable car to get a bird's - eye view of the park, or hike along the trails to explore the park up close. The park also has beautiful forests, clear streams, and waterfalls, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Tianmen Mountain: A Natural Wonder with Breathtaking Views
Tianmen Mountain is known for its natural wonders and thrilling attractions. The highlight is the Tianmen Cave, a natural cave that is 131.5 meters high, 57 meters wide, and 60 meters deep. You can reach the cave by taking a long and steep escalator or by hiking up thousands of steps. The mountain also has a glass - bottomed skywalk, where you can walk on a transparent platform and look down at the deep valley below. The cable car ride to the mountain is also an experience in itself, as it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the city of Zhangjiajie.
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon: A Hidden Gem
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is a relatively new tourist attraction. The canyon is deep and narrow, with clear streams running through it. There are many waterfalls in the canyon, some of which are quite large. The highlight of the canyon is the glass bridge, which is one of the longest and highest glass - bottomed bridges in the world. Walking on the bridge, you can see the deep canyon below through the transparent glass, which is both thrilling and breathtaking. The canyon also has hiking trails, allowing you to explore the beautiful natural scenery at a more leisurely pace.
8. Hangzhou: The Paradise on Earth
West Lake: A Scenic Wonder
West Lake is the most famous attraction in Hangzhou. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains, gardens, and temples. The scenery of the lake changes with the seasons. In spring, the willow trees along the lake are in bloom, creating a green and vibrant scene. In summer, the lotus flowers in the lake are in full bloom, filling the air with their fragrance. In autumn, the ginkgo trees turn golden, adding a touch of warmth to the scenery. In winter, when it snows, the lake and the surrounding mountains are covered with snow, creating a fairy - tale - like scene. There are many scenic spots around the lake, such as the Leifeng Pagoda, the Broken Bridge, and the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon.
Lingyin Temple: A Place of Tranquility and Spirituality
Lingyin Temple, located at the foot of the Lingyin Mountain, is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China. The temple has a history of over 1,600 years and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. The main hall of the temple houses a large Buddha statue, which is solemn and majestic. There are also many other halls, pavilions, and gardens in the temple. The temple is surrounded by lush forests, and the sound of the flowing stream and the chirping of birds add to the tranquility of the place. Visiting Lingyin Temple, you can feel a sense of peace and spirituality.
Xixi National Wetland Park: A Natural Oasis
Xixi National Wetland Park is a unique wetland ecosystem in the city. The park is covered with waterways, ponds, and marshes, and is home to a variety of plants and animals. You can take a boat ride along the waterways, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the wetland. The park also has walking trails, allowing you to explore the wetland on foot. There are some traditional Chinese villages in the park, where you can learn about the local culture and way of life. The park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get close to nature.
9. Tibet: The Roof of the World
Potala Palace: A Symbol of Tibetan Culture
The Potala Palace in Lhasa is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tibet. Built in the 7th century, it is a magnificent palace complex that combines Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian architectural styles. The palace is divided into two parts, the White Palace and the Red Palace. The White Palace was used for administrative purposes, while the Red Palace is a religious center, housing many Buddha statues, stupas, and murals. The Potala Palace is not only a place of religious worship but also a treasure trove of Tibetan art and culture. Standing in front of the palace, you can feel the grandeur and solemnity of this ancient building.
Jokhang Temple: The Heart of Lhasa
Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet. It is located in the center of Lhasa's old town. The temple was built in the 7th century and is dedicated to Buddha Sakyamuni. Every day, a large number of pilgrims come to the temple to worship. The temple's architecture is a combination of Tibetan and Han Chinese styles. Inside the temple, there are many precious Buddha statues, murals, and scriptures. The Barkhor Street, which circles the Jokhang Temple, is also a lively place, with many shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, prayer wheels, and traditional clothing.
Namtso Lake: A Heavenly Lake
Namtso Lake is one of the three holy lakes in Tibet. It is located at an altitude of over 4,700 meters and is known for its crystal - clear blue water and the surrounding snow - capped mountains. The lake is vast, stretching as far as the eye can see. The reflection of the mountains in the lake creates a beautiful and peaceful scene. There are some small islands in the lake, where you can see some rare birds. Camping by the lake and watching the sunrise and sunset is an unforgettable experience. The lake is also of great religious significance to the local Tibetan people。
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