Great Wall of China
Stretching over 21,000 kilometers, the Great Wall of China stands as one of humanity's most magnificent architectural achievements. Walking along its ancient stones, you'll feel the weight of centuries of history beneath your feet.
Highlights & Experiences
- Walk along ancient fortifications and imagine the soldiers who guarded this frontier
- Enjoy panoramic views of mountains and valleys from watchtowers
- Learn about construction techniques at visitor centers
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and clear views. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Don't Miss
- Sunrise or sunset views when the wall is bathed in golden light
- The less-visited Jinshanling section for a more authentic experience
- Hiking along unrestored portions for a true adventure
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Bus: Take bus 919 from Deshengmen to Badaling (¥12 / $1.70, 1.5 hours).
By Train: Take the S2 train from Beijing North Station to Badaling (¥7 / $1, 1 hour).
By Tour: Join a group tour from Beijing (¥200-400 / $28-56 per person).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: Half day for one section
- Recommended: Full day to explore multiple sections
- Extended: 2 days for overnight camping experience
Cost Tips
- Entrance Fee: ¥40-65 / $5.60-9.10 depending on section
- Budget Options: Public transport, packed lunch (¥100-150 / $14-21 total)
- Mid-Range: Private car, guide, cable car (¥300-500 / $42-70 per person)
- Luxury: Helicopter tour, private guide (¥1,500+ / $210+ per person)
Where to Stay
- Near Badaling: Badaling Hotel (¥400-800 / $56-112/night)
- Near Mutianyu: Brickyard Eco Retreat (¥800-1,500 / $112-210/night)
- Near Jinshanling: Gubei Water Town (¥600-1,200 / $84-168/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for steep sections
- Bring water, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing
- Visa: Most visitors need a visa to enter China
Local / Hidden Gems
- Huanghuacheng section with lake views
- Jiankou section for wild, unrestored wall experience
- Simatai section for night tours and illuminated wall
Forbidden City
Step into the world of emperors and empresses at the Forbidden City, the world's largest palace complex. The intricate architecture tells stories of dynasties past.
Highlights & Experiences
- Explore nearly 1,000 buildings and courtyards
- Marvel at throne rooms where emperors held court
- Discover treasures and artifacts from China's imperial past
Best Time to Visit
Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather for exploring the extensive grounds.
Don't Miss
- The Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest and most important building
- The Imperial Garden with ancient trees and pavilions
- The treasure galleries showcasing imperial collections
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Subway: Take Line 1 to Tiananmen East or West Station (¥3 / $0.40).
By Bus: Numerous buses stop at Tiananmen Square (¥2 / $0.30).
By Taxi: From city center (¥30-50 / $4.20-7).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: Half day for main highlights
- Recommended: Full day to explore thoroughly
- Extended: 2 days with nearby attractions
Cost Tips
- Entrance Fee: ¥60 (April-October) / ¥40 (November-March) / $8.40-5.60
- Budget Options: Self-guided tour with audio guide (¥100-150 / $14-21 total)
- Mid-Range: Guided group tour (¥200-300 / $28-42 per person)
- Luxury: Private guide with VIP access (¥800+ / $112+ per person)
Where to Stay
- Nearby: The Peninsula Beijing (¥1,500-3,000 / $210-420/night)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Kapok (¥800-1,200 / $112-168/night)
- Budget: Beijing Downtown Backpackers (¥150-300 / $21-42/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Wear comfortable shoes as there's extensive walking
- Bring water and snacks as options inside are limited
- Visa: Required for most international visitors
Local / Hidden Gems
- Shu Fang Zhai garden with unique rock formations
- The Hall of Mental Cultivation with original furnishings
- The Clock Gallery with imperial timepieces
Terracotta Army
Stand face to face with thousands of life-sized terracotta warriors, each with unique features, created to protect China's first emperor in the afterlife.
Highlights & Experiences
- View three main pits containing thousands of terracotta figures
- Examine details of individual warriors in the exhibition hall
- Learn about ongoing archaeological work and discoveries
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures.
Don't Miss
- Pit 1, the largest excavation with over 6,000 figures
- The exhibition hall showing high-ranking officers
- The bronze chariots, significant archaeological finds
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Bus: Take bus 5 (306) from Xi'an Railway Station (¥8 / $1.10, 1 hour).
By Tour: Join a group tour from Xi'an (¥150-300 / $21-42 per person).
By Taxi: From Xi'an city center (¥120-150 / $17-21).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: Half day for main pits
- Recommended: Full day with museum and Emperor Qin's tomb
- Extended: 2 days with other Xi'an attractions
Cost Tips
- Entrance Fee: ¥150 (March-November) / ¥120 (December-February) / $21-17
- Budget Options: Public transport, self-guided (¥200-250 / $28-35 total)
- Mid-Range: Tour with guide (¥300-500 / $42-70 per person)
- Luxury: Private tour with archaeologist (¥1,000+ / $140+ per person)
Where to Stay
- Nearby: Terracotta Army Hotel (¥400-800 / $56-112/night)
- In Xi'an: Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel (¥1,000-2,000 / $140-280/night)
- Budget: Han Tang Inn (¥200-400 / $28-56/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces
- Bring water as options inside are limited
- Visa: Required for most international visitors
Local / Hidden Gems
- The smaller, less-crowded pits 3 and 4
- The museum of Qin Terracotta Figures and Horses
- The nearby Huaqing Hot Springs palace
Li River and Guilin Scenery
Cruise down the Li River and immerse yourself in one of China's most iconic landscapes, where towering limestone karsts rise from emerald waters.
Highlights & Experiences
- Scenic boat cruise along the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo
- Bamboo raft rides for a more intimate river experience
- Cycling through countryside villages and rice fields
Best Time to Visit
April to October for warm weather and lush landscapes. Early morning offers the best light for photography.
Don't Miss
- The view from Xingping, featured on the 20 yuan banknote
- Exploring Yangshuo's ancient town with West Street market
- The Impression Liu Sanjie light show on the Li River
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Air: Fly to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL).
By Train: High-speed train from Guangzhou (2.5 hours, ¥110-200 / $15-28).
By Bus: From Guangzhou (4 hours, ¥120-180 / $17-25).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: 1 day for river cruise
- Recommended: 2-3 days to explore Guilin and Yangshuo
- Extended: 4-5 days including Longji Rice Terraces
Cost Tips
- River Cruise: ¥180-215 / $25-30 per person
- Budget Options: Public buses, hostels (¥300-500 / $42-70 per day)
- Mid-Range: Private tours, mid-range hotels (¥600-1,000 / $84-140 per day)
- Luxury: Private boat, luxury resorts (¥1,500+ / $210+ per day)
Where to Stay
- In Guilin: Sheraton Guilin Hotel (¥700-1,200 / $98-168/night)
- In Yangshuo: Yangshuo Mountain Retreat (¥600-1,000 / $84-140/night)
- Budget: Yangshuo Sudder Street Guesthouse (¥150-300 / $21-42/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Use sunscreen and hats during boat tours
- Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues
- Visa: Required for most international visitors
Local / Hidden Gems
- Yulong River for less crowded bamboo rafting
- Xingping Fishing Village for traditional lifestyle
- Yangdi Village for authentic rural scenery
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Walk among towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar at this surreal UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights & Experiences
- Ride the Bailong Elevator, the world's tallest outdoor elevator
- Walk across the glass-bottomed Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Skywalk
- Hike through forests surrounded by towering sandstone pillars
Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to November for comfortable temperatures and clear views. Summer brings misty, mystical atmosphere.
Don't Miss
- Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, home of the "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain"
- Tianmen Mountain with its famous "Heaven's Gate" natural arch
- The Golden Whip Stream canyon trail through lush vegetation
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Air: Fly to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport (DYG).
By Train: High-speed train from Changsha (4 hours, ¥200-350 / $28-49).
By Bus: From Changsha (4.5 hours, ¥150-200 / $21-28).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: 2 days for main attractions
- Recommended: 3-4 days to explore thoroughly
- Extended: 5 days including nearby Fenghuang Ancient Town
Cost Tips
- Park Entrance: ¥248 (3-day pass) / $35
- Budget Options: Public transport, guesthouses (¥400-600 / $56-84 per day)
- Mid-Range: Private tours, mid-range hotels (¥800-1,200 / $112-168 per day)
- Luxury: Private guide, luxury resorts (¥1,800+ / $252+ per day)
Where to Stay
- Near Park: Zhangjiajie Pullman Hotel (¥800-1,500 / $112-210/night)
- In City: Zhangjiajie International Hotel (¥500-900 / $70-126/night)
- Budget: Wulingyuan Youth Hostel (¥150-300 / $21-42/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for trails
- Bring rain gear as weather changes quickly
- Visa: Required for most international visitors
Local / Hidden Gems
- Tianmen Mountain Nine Turns Cave
- Baofeng Lake for serene boat rides
- Huanglong Cave with underground river
The Bund & Shanghai Skyline
Experience the perfect blend of old and new at Shanghai's Bund, where historic colonial buildings face the futuristic Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River.
Highlights & Experiences
- Walk along the Bund promenade for views of the Pudong skyline
- Take a Huangpu River cruise to see the city from the water
- Visit observation decks of the Shanghai Tower or Jin Mao Tower
Best Time to Visit
Evening is magical when buildings are illuminated. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Don't Miss
- The nightly light show illuminating both sides of the river
- The view from Shanghai World Financial Center's observation deck
- The historic Peace Hotel for old Shanghai glamour
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Metro: Take Line 2 or 10 to Nanjing East Road Station (¥3-4 / $0.40-0.56).
By Bus: Numerous buses stop along the Bund (¥2 / $0.30).
By Taxi: From city center (¥30-50 / $4.20-7).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: Half day for Bund and skyline views
- Recommended: Full day with river cruise and observation deck
- Extended: 2-3 days exploring Shanghai's other attractions
Cost Tips
- River Cruise: ¥100-150 / $14-21 per person
- Observation Deck: ¥180-220 / $25-31 per person
- Budget Options: Walking tour, public transport (¥100-200 / $14-28 total)
- Mid-Range: Guided tour, dinner cruise (¥500-800 / $70-112 per person)
- Luxury: Private yacht tour, fine dining (¥1,500+ / $210+ per person)
Where to Stay
- On the Bund: Waldorf Astoria Shanghai (¥2,500-5,000 / $350-700/night)
- In Pudong: Grand Hyatt Shanghai (¥1,500-3,000 / $210-420/night)
- Budget: Mingtown Hikers Youth Hostel (¥150-300 / $21-42/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas
- Stay hydrated during hot summer months
- Visa: Required for most international visitors
Local / Hidden Gems
- The Bund History Museum
- Chen Yi Statue at the northern end of the Bund
- Huangpu Park, Shanghai's oldest public park
Chengdu & Giant Pandas
Come face to face with China's beloved giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base. Beyond pandas, experience Chengdu's teahouse culture and spicy cuisine.
Highlights & Experiences
- Observe giant pandas in their naturalistic habitats
- Learn about panda conservation efforts at the research center
- Experience traditional teahouse culture in People's Park
Best Time to Visit
Morning is best to see pandas when they're most active. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather.
Don't Miss
- The panda nursery where you can see baby pandas (seasonal)
- The red panda exhibit, often overlooked but delightful
- Wide and Narrow Alleys for historic architecture and local snacks
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Air: Fly to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU).
By Metro: Take Line 3 to Panda Avenue Station (¥5 / $0.70).
By Bus: From city center to Panda Base (¥2-10 / $0.30-1.40).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: Half day at Panda Base
- Recommended: Full day with city attractions
- Extended: 2-3 days including Leshan Giant Buddha
Cost Tips
- Panda Base Entrance: ¥58 / $8.10
- Budget Options: Public transport, street food (¥200-300 / $28-42 per day)
- Mid-Range: Private tours, local restaurants (¥500-800 / $70-112 per day)
- Luxury: Panda volunteer program, fine dining (¥1,200+ / $168+ per day)
Where to Stay
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Chengdu (¥1,200-2,500 / $168-350/night)
- Mid-Range: BuddhaZen Hotel (¥600-1,000 / $84-140/night)
- Budget: Mix Hostel (¥150-300 / $21-42/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Be cautious with spicy Sichuan food if not accustomed
- Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues
- Visa: Required for most international visitors
Local / Hidden Gems
- Wenshu Monastery with peaceful gardens
- Jinli Ancient Street for traditional architecture
- Wuhou Shrine with Three Kingdoms history
Jiuzhaigou Valley
Discover a paradise of crystal-clear lakes, multi-level waterfalls, and colorful forests in this UNESCO World Heritage site that seems almost too beautiful to be real.
Highlights & Experiences
- Marvel at the colorful waters of Five Flower Lake and Pearl Shoal Waterfall
- Walk along wooden boardwalks through pristine forests
- Experience Tibetan culture in traditional villages within the valley
Best Time to Visit
Autumn (September-October) offers spectacular fall foliage. Spring brings blooming flowers and fewer crowds.
Don't Miss
- Five Flower Lake with crystal-clear waters and underwater landscapes
- Pearl Shoal Waterfall cascading over a wide travertine shelf
- The Mirror Lake perfectly reflecting surrounding mountains
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Air: Fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH) and take bus (¥45 / $6.30, 1.5 hours).
By Bus: From Chengdu (8-10 hours, ¥160-200 / $22-28).
By Tour: Join a multi-day tour from Chengdu (¥1,000-2,000 / $140-280 per person).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: 1 full day in the valley
- Recommended: 2 days to explore thoroughly
- Extended: 3-4 days including Huanglong Scenic Area
Cost Tips
- Entrance Fee: ¥190 (April-November) / ¥80 (December-March) / $27-11
- Budget Options: Public buses, guesthouses (¥400-600 / $56-84 per day)
- Mid-Range: Private tours, mid-range hotels (¥800-1,200 / $112-168 per day)
- Luxury: Private guide, luxury resorts (¥1,500+ / $210+ per day)
Where to Stay
- Inside Park: Jiuzhai Paradise Hotel (¥1,200-2,000 / $168-280/night)
- Near Entrance: Sheraton Jiuzhaigou Resort (¥1,000-1,800 / $140-252/night)
- Budget: Jiuzhai Youth Hostel (¥200-400 / $28-56/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Altitude: 2,000-3,000m - acclimatize, stay hydrated
- Wear layers as weather changes quickly
- Visa: Required for most international visitors
Local / Hidden Gems
- Zharu Valley for less crowded hiking
- Primitive Forest for serene nature walks
- Seasonal Lakes that change color dramatically
Hong Kong Skyline & Victoria Peak
Experience one of the world's most spectacular urban vistas from Victoria Peak, overlooking Hong Kong's dazzling skyline and Victoria Harbour.
Highlights & Experiences
- Ride the historic Peak Tram to the summit for stunning views
- Enjoy the panoramic vista from Sky Terrace 428 observation deck
- Watch the Symphony of Lights show from the Peak or waterfront
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon to see the city in daylight, sunset, and then transform into a sea of lights. Clear days offer the best views.
Don't Miss
- Lugard Road walking path with free panoramic views
- The Symphony of Lights, the world's largest permanent light show
- A ride on the Star Ferry for harbor and skyline views
Practical Information
How to Get There
Peak Tram: From Garden Road Central (HK$52 / $6.70 return).
By Bus: Bus 15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus (HK$10.8 / $1.40).
By Taxi: From Central (HK$50-70 / $6.40-9).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: Half day for Peak and skyline views
- Recommended: Full day with harbor activities
- Extended: 2-3 days exploring Hong Kong Island
Cost Tips
- Peak Tram + Sky Terrace: HK$168 / $21.60
- Budget Options: Public transport, free viewpoints (HK$100-200 / $13-26 total)
- Mid-Range: Peak dining, harbor cruise (HK$400-800 / $51-103 per person)
- Luxury: Helicopter tour, fine dining (HK$1,500+ / $193+ per person)
Where to Stay
- On the Peak: The Peak Hotel (HK$3,000-6,000 / $385-770/night)
- Central: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong (HK$4,000-8,000 / $513-1,026/night)
- Budget: Hop Inn on the Peak (HK$800-1,500 / $103-193/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Many countries have visa-free access for short stays
- Stay hydrated during hot and humid months
- Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas
Local / Hidden Gems
- Mount Austin Road for less crowded views
- Pinewood Battery heritage trail
- Lugard Road hiking trail around the Peak
Lhasa & Potala Palace
Journey to the "Roof of the World" and experience the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism at Lhasa's Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama.
Highlights & Experiences
- Explore the vast complex of the Potala Palace with countless chapels
- Visit the Jokhang Temple, Tibet's most sacred religious site
- Walk the kora (pilgrimage route) around Barkhor Street with local pilgrims
Best Time to Visit
May to October for mildest weather. Allow time to acclimatize to the high altitude (3,650m).
Don't Miss
- The Red Palace containing sacred stupas of past Dalai Lamas
- The view of Lhasa from the palace roof
- Barkhor Street market surrounding the Jokhang Temple
Practical Information
How to Get There
By Air: Fly to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA). Requires Tibet permit.
By Train: Qinghai-Tibet Railway from Xining (21 hours, ¥500-1,200 / $70-168).
By Tour: Must join organized tour with permit (¥3,000-8,000 / $420-1,120 for 4-7 days).
Duration Recommendation
- Minimum: 2 days in Lhasa for acclimatization
- Recommended: 4-5 days to explore Lhasa thoroughly
- Extended: 7-10 days including Yamdrok Lake and Everest Base Camp
Cost Tips
- Potala Palace Entrance: ¥200 (May-October) / ¥100 (November-April) / $28-14
- Budget Options: Group tours, guesthouses (¥400-600 / $56-84 per day)
- Mid-Range: Private tours, mid-range hotels (¥800-1,200 / $112-168 per day)
- Luxury: Private guide, luxury hotels (¥1,500+ / $210+ per day)
Where to Stay
- Luxury: St. Regis Lhasa Resort (¥1,500-3,000 / $210-420/night)
- Mid-Range: Lhasa Hotel (¥600-1,200 / $84-168/night)
- Budget: Yak Hotel (¥200-400 / $28-56/night)
Safety / Health / Visa Reminders
- Altitude: 3,650m - acclimatize, take it slow, stay hydrated
- Special permits required for foreign visitors
- Respect local customs and religious sites
Local / Hidden Gems
- Sera Monastery for debating monks
- Drepung Monastery, once world's largest monastery
- Norbulingka, the Dalai Lama's summer palace
Travel Experiences & Community
Travel Tips for Exploring China
Transportation
China's high-speed rail network is extensive and efficient. Book tickets in advance, especially during holidays. In cities, metros are convenient and well-signed in English.
Visas & Documentation
Most visitors need a visa to enter China. Apply well in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
Language & Communication
Learning basic Mandarin phrases will enhance your experience. Download a translation app like Pleco. Consider getting a local SIM card for reliable internet access.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Remove shoes when entering homes or certain temples. It's polite to try food offered to you. Tipping is not customary in mainland China.
Health & Safety
Drink bottled water. Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Carry a basic first-aid kit. China is generally safe, but guard against pickpockets in crowded areas.
Currency & Payments
The currency is Chinese Yuan (CNY). While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, cash is still widely used. Mobile payments are popular but require a Chinese bank account.
Map of China's Top 10 Destinations
Your Chinese Adventure Awaits
From the ancient stones of the Great Wall to the modern marvels of Shanghai's skyline, China offers an incredible diversity of experiences. Whether you're drawn to natural wonders, cultural treasures, or culinary adventures, this vast country delivers unforgettable moments. Start planning your journey today!
Plan Your Itinerary