China, a country with a profound history stretching back thousands of years, is home to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes, ancient wonders, and vibrant cities. As the fourth largest country globally, China offers an impressive mix of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and modern marvels, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. If you’re planning your first trip to China, the following ten places should be at the top of your itinerary.
1. The Great Wall of China, Beijing
- Location: Beijing (and beyond)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) or Autumn (September-October)
No trip to China is complete without a visit to the Great Wall, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. This ancient defense structure winds over 13,000 miles across northern China, stretching through rugged mountains, lush valleys, and deserts. The best-preserved and most popular sections are close to Beijing, particularly the Badaling and Mutianyu stretches, where you can walk atop the wall, absorbing the vast views of the Chinese countryside. Hiking here gives visitors a sense of the sheer scale of the wall and the history it holds.
2. The Forbidden City, Beijing
- Location: Beijing
- Best Time to Visit: All year round, though spring and autumn offer milder weather.
Situated in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, it’s one of the most visited museums in the world, offering visitors a glimpse into China’s imperial past. The sprawling palace complex is home to nearly 1,000 buildings with grand halls, courtyards, and exquisite artwork. Be sure to take your time as you wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the detailed architecture and historical artifacts that have stood the test of time.
3. Terracotta Army, Xi’an
- Location: Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
- Best Time to Visit: March to November
Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is one of China’s greatest archaeological finds. This collection of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots was built to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. The army consists of thousands of unique figures, each with distinct facial expressions and postures, standing in battle formation. Xi’an, one of the ancient capitals of China, is the gateway to this magnificent site. Visiting the Terracotta Army offers a deep insight into ancient Chinese funerary art and the power of the first emperor who united China.
4. The Li River and Yangshuo, Guilin
- Location: Guilin, Guangxi Province
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
Renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes, the Li River is a natural paradise in southern China. A river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers some of the most picturesque scenery in the country, passing dramatic limestone peaks, rural villages, and bamboo groves. Yangshuo, a small town surrounded by these unique mountains, has become a hub for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. Cycling through the countryside, hiking, and bamboo rafting are popular activities here. The beauty of the area is so iconic that it has been immortalized on the back of China’s 20-yuan banknote.
5. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- Location: Hunan Province
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for its towering sandstone pillars, is an otherworldly landscape that inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Located in Hunan Province, the park offers incredible opportunities for hiking and exploring, with a range of trails that take you through thick forests, alongside flowing streams, and up to panoramic viewpoints. For a truly unforgettable experience, take the glass elevator at Bailong to ascend one of the towering cliffs or walk along the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, which spans a deep canyon.
6. The Bund, Shanghai
- Location: Shanghai
- Best Time to Visit: All year round, but the nighttime skyline is best enjoyed in clear weather.
Shanghai is China’s most cosmopolitan city, where tradition meets modernity. The Bund, a waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, epitomizes this blend. On one side, you’ll find grand colonial-era buildings that reflect Shanghai’s early 20th-century history, while the other side features the ultra-modern skyline of Pudong, dominated by the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower and the towering Shanghai Tower. The Bund is especially spectacular at night, when the skyscrapers are lit up, and the city’s vibrant energy is palpable. Don’t miss the chance to take a river cruise or enjoy a rooftop bar with stunning views of the skyline.
7. The Potala Palace, Lhasa
- Location: Lhasa, Tibet
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
For those interested in spirituality and history, a visit to Tibet’s capital, Lhasa, is a must. The Potala Palace, once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, is a majestic symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. Standing at over 12,000 feet above sea level, this towering structure contains thousands of rooms filled with Buddhist relics, statues, and ancient manuscripts. Visiting the Potala Palace is not only a journey through Tibetan history but also a deeply spiritual experience for many. The views from the palace over Lhasa are breathtaking, and the city itself offers many other significant temples and monasteries to explore.
8. The Summer Palace, Beijing
- Location: Beijing
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and autumn are particularly lovely.
The Summer Palace is a stunning imperial garden and palace complex in Beijing. Built during the Qing Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage site was the royal family’s retreat during the hot summer months. The vast grounds are home to beautiful lakes, traditional Chinese pavilions, temples, and meticulously landscaped gardens. A leisurely boat ride on Kunming Lake, walking across the famous 17-Arch Bridge, or hiking up Longevity Hill for panoramic views are popular activities for visitors.
9. Jiuzhaigou Valley
- Location: Sichuan Province
- Best Time to Visit: September to November, when autumn colors are at their peak.
Jiuzhaigou Valley, located in the remote mountains of Sichuan Province, is one of the most beautiful places in China, known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The vibrant blue and green waters of the lakes, combined with the lush forests and stunning backdrop of mountains, make this a paradise for nature lovers. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered giant panda, though sightings are rare. Visiting Jiuzhaigou in the autumn, when the foliage turns red and gold, adds a magical touch to the already surreal landscape.
10. West Lake, Hangzhou
- Location: Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)
West Lake in Hangzhou is renowned for its tranquil beauty and has been the inspiration for countless poets and artists throughout Chinese history. Surrounded by hills, pagodas, temples, and gardens, the lake offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Walking or cycling around the lake, visiting the ancient Lingyin Temple, or taking a traditional boat ride are all great ways to experience the charm of West Lake. The surrounding tea plantations, particularly those producing Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, add another layer of cultural richness to your visit.
Conclusion
China is a country that effortlessly blends ancient traditions with modern advancements. Whether you’re captivated by its millennia-old history, breathtaking landscapes, or bustling urban life, the places mentioned above provide an excellent introduction to the richness and diversity that China offers. As a first-time visitor, these destinations will offer unforgettable experiences and insights into a culture that has shaped much of human history.