In recent years, China has made a great leap onto the stage of international tourism. And, now has become one of the most popular destinations. Though most attention is directed towards the rapid modernization of China as is symbolized by the metropolis of Shanghai, China still is an ancient nation full of stunning landscapes and historic treasures. If you are planning a trip to China for the very first time, you perhaps have no idea where to go? And what to do? And to help you out we shall present a list of the top 10 places to visit in China.
10. Kunming
Kunming is the transportation, economic, cultural, and industrial center of southwest China. It is linked to all major cities of China and also Vietnam by rail. The mild climate of Kunming makes it an ideal place to visit all through the year. Mainly because of its great climatic conditions flower growing is a big industry here and you can visit a big botanical garden and flower auctions and exhibits.
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9. The Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army has stayed underground for over 2,000 years. It was in 1974 when some farmers who were digging a well discovered one of the best archeological sites in this planet. It became the World Cultural Heritage in 1987. Also, it holds so much significance because the hundreds of life-size detailed models are representative of the army that triumphed over the other Chinese armies during the Warring States Period (475-221 BC).
8. Leshan Giant Buddha
Created in the eighth century, in order to calm down a raging river that was running by its feet. The Leshan Giant Buddha is amongst the greatest architectural marvels of China. And, being 223 feet in height, it also is the largest sitting Buddha in the world. The statue has been carved into the riverside cliffs directly. And, the visitors can go up the stairwell from the feet of the Buddha and reach the cliff top to enjoy an amazing view of the huge statue from all angles.
7. The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City used to be a ‘palace city’ where no ordinary people were allowed an entry. It is an extravagant example of ancient Chinese architecture with more than 8,000 rooms with golden roofs that are painted in yellow and red and beautifully designed. The Forbidden City was also the imperial place of the Qing and Ming Dynasties till 1911, for 560 years. 24 emperors resided there. Now it is known as “The Palace Museum” and is a World Cultural Heritage.
6. The Summer Palace
The Imperial Summer Palace, a 15-km journey from Beijing is set amid over 700 acres of stunning parkland and is one of the most visited attractions of China. Though the place was built in 1153, its huge lake got added in the 14th century to make the Imperial Gardens look more beautiful. Some of the highlights include the beautiful Hall of Well-being and Longevity, the gorgeous Great Theater, and the Hall of Happiness and Longevity.
5. The Li River
The stunning landscape along the Li River has made everyone awe-struck. Many, many Chinese poets and painters have been smitten by the beauty of Mother Nature here, and they used their brushes and pens to capture the gorgeous scenery. Nowadays it is a well-known photography destination. When locals or visitors of China look for a place of natural beauty, their search ends with the Li River.
4. Jiuzhaigou Valley
Located in southwest China in the mountains of Sichuan province, the Jiuzhaigou Valley is a beautiful place with waterfalls, villages, trails, and clear glacial lakes in hues of green, turquoise, and blue. While off-the-trail exploring and hiking are allowed to some extent, many people opt to take the park’s hop-on-hop-off bus which halts in the main scenic areas and allows the travelers to decide which direction they want to explore by walking.
3. The Yellow Mountains
Close to Hangzhou and Shanghai in east China are the Yellow Mountain Scenic Areas. They attracts people with its five wonders; Seas of clouds, sun rises, twisted pine trees, hot springs, and oddly-shaped rocks. The Yellow Mountains are the most popular peaks of China. And, also one of its best national parks. Compared to the two other parks ( Jiuzhaigou National Forest Park and Zhangjiajie National Forest Park) the Yellow Mountain National Park is easier to reach, and thus the busiest and most popular one.
2. Yangshuo
The town of Yangshuo with its gorgeous landscapes of angular green hills extending up towards the sky has been attracting travelers from China and other parts of the world ever since the mid-1980s. Many people who have visited Yangshuo describe it as their favorite part of the country. And, they suggest renting bikes in order to explore the beautiful trails running through the serene landscape or view the stunning area from the Yi River by opting for a boat ride.
1. The Great Wall of China
The most iconic symbol of the country. It is a place that everyone must have heard of. The Great Wall of China, is the longest wall in the whole world. Also, one of the most popular walls around the world. It is an admirable achievement of ancient defensive architecture. The wall stretches over 13,000 miles and is easily accessible for any travelers in Beijing, many of whom prefer hiring informal guides to take them to nearby sections of this wall. Do wear comfy shoes as you will have to walk a lot and it will best to avoid visiting the place during winters as the temperature may drop below zero. The wall is one of the classic seven wonders of the world.
China indeed has a lot to offer. This list of top 10 must-visit places already must have lured you into visiting the country. And once you do you will realize there is so much more to experience and enjoy, which will make your trip completely worth it. Hope! you enjoyed our list of best places to visit in China.