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Top Things to Do in China

Top Things to Do in China

Written by Candice SongUpdated Aug. 30, 2021

China is a vast country with diverse landscapes and cultures. It might be confusing as to how to plan a China tour. China Highlights has categorized the following destinations, attractions and things to do according to month of visit, interests, whether it is your first or second trip etc. visit to China, duration and budget, view our top 10 China Tours now.

Places to Visit by Month

1. January and February

The freezing weather in North China gives rise to various winter activities, such as skiing and ice and snow festivals, while on the warm southernmost Hainan Island, people enjoy sunshine and beaches.

Chinese new year Chinese new year

2. March, April and May

It is one of the best times to visit China, when the weather gets warmer, flowers bloom, grass sprouts and rivers flow. In South China, the spring offers a great chance to see fields of cole flowers and rice terrace fields in the countryside.

Li River cruise Li River cruise

3. June, July and August

It is summer time, the hottest and most humid months in China. There are places to escape or embrace the summer heat. It is also a good time for visiting Tibet, where there will be pleasant weather and grand festivals.

Mogao Grottoes Mogao Grottoes

4. September and October

Autumn is one of the best seasons to visit China with pleasant weather. October 1-7 is China's National Day Holiday, when tour prices rise and scenic spots are crowded; avoid visiting during this period. Recommended Tour: Fairy Land Tour to Jiuzhaigou and Mount E'mei

Lake Yamdrok in Tibet Lake Yamdrok in Tibet

5. November and December

It slowly turns into winter. With the holiday season coming, this period provides good opportunities for shopping.

Songzanlin Lamasery in Yunnan Songzanlin Lamasery in Yunnan

Places to Visit by Theme/Interest

1. Festivals Experience

Various festivals, including Chinese traditional festivals and festivals of many ethnic minorities, fill the calendar throughout the year. The most important festival for the Chinese people is Chinese New Year (Spring Festival), and is also the best time of the year to see traditional performances such as lion dance, dragon dance and other activities. Recommended Tours: China Festival Tours

Mid-Autumn Festival Mid-Autumn Festival

2. Sports

For active travelers, there are some grand events at international level held in China. Also, many scenic spots are suitable for sports activities like hiking, biking and skiing. There is something for every one with varying physique and adventure levels. Recommended Tours: China Hiking Tours

The Yellow Mountains Trekking The Yellow Mountains trekking

3. History

With over 4,000 years of history, China is one of four ancient civilizations in the world. The historical legacy serves as a valuable pool of material, spiritual and philosophical traditions. Historical sites and relics are many travelers' reasons to visit China.

Terracotta Army in Xi'an Terracotta Army in Xi'an

4. Scenery

With a vast expanse of territory, China boasts diverse and picturesque natural beauty. As of 2010, 40 sites had been inscribed as World Heritage Sites, including 29 cultural, 7 natural and 4 cultural and natural heritage sites.

Longji Rice Terraced Fields Longji Rice Terraced Fields

5. Chinese Cuisine

Food has a special meaning to Chinese people. China is considered a gourmet paradise because of its great variety of food and a surprising range of ingredients used. Chinese food is healthy, delicious, and above all, different. Recommended Tours: Chinese Food Tours

City God Temple in Shanghai City God Temple in Shanghai

6. Honeymoon

Honeymoon couples can have a most romantic and unforgettable experience in China. There are many options for couples, and they can select the destinations and activities depending on their personal choice and preferences.

Sanya, Hainan Island Sanya, Hainan Island

Places to Visit on Your ... Time to China

1. First Time to China

For first-time visitors, the following destinations can help them a general impression of China: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an and Guilin. These four places are the most popular destinations for visitors both in China and from around the world. They represent China's past, present, scenery and development.

Beijing: Former Imperial Glory Beijing: Former Imperial Glory

2. Second Time to China

The following are also among the most famous and popular destinations in China. They are suitable for travelers who have already grasped a glimpse of China and want to explore more of it. Recommended Tour: 8-Day Explore Shangri-La Tour

Shangri La, Yunnan Shangri La, Yunnan

3. Third Time to China

For travelers who have visited China for several times, it is suggested that they travel to relatively remote or less-travelled destinations, to see more of China's ethnic minorities, landscape and culture. Recommended Tour: 17-Day Tracks of Marco Polo Tour

Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region

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