The Top 15 Tourist Attractions in China

With a vast territory and a long history, China offers so much to see and explore. We have listed for you the top 15 must-visit attractions in China for any classic China tours.

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China has officially announced resuming all kinds of visas including tourist visa (L Visa) application from March 15th, 2023. If your 10-year China Visa, obtained before COVID-19, is still within the expiration date, you can enter China now wihtout applying for a new one. 

To tailor make a flexible private China tour, simply contact us. You enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure (detail⇒).

1. The Great Wall of China in Beijing

Different Sceneries at the Great Wall of China

In the eyes of most travelers, you haven't been to China if you haven't climbed the Great Wall.

One of the iconic symbols of China, the Great Wall is the longest wall in the world, an awe-inspiring feat of ancient defensive architecture. Its winding path over rugged country and steep mountains take in some great scenery. It deserves its place among "the New Seven Wonders of the World" and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China.

The wall spans from China's western frontier to the east coast, totaling around 5,000 km (3,100 miles), but the most integrated and best-preserved sections are close to Beijing. So this is what people usually mean when mentioning the Great Wall of China.

There is no better way to explore China's Great Wall than by hiking or walking along with it. Tread the centuries-old bricks and walk through watchtower ruins. Take your time and feel the history come to life.

Read more:

• Top 20 Amazing Great Wall Facts You Should Know
• Which Sections of the Great Wall Should I Visit?

• 1-Day Jiankou to Mutianyu Great Wall Hiking Tour
• 2-Day Mutianyu & Simatai Great Wall Night Tour
• 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai Tour including Great Wall
• More Great Wall of China Tours

2. The Forbidden City in Beijing — Imperial Palace for 24 Emperors

The Forbidden City in Beijing

It was once a "palace" city where ordinary people were forbidden entry. An extravagant demonstration of ancient Chinese architecture, over 8,000 rooms with golden roofs are elegantly designed and painted in red and yellow.

The Forbidden City was the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties for 560 years till 1911. 24 emperors lived there. World Cultural Heritage, and now known as 'the Palace Museum' among Chinese, it is a treasure house of Chinese cultural and historical relics. Read on 10 Facts You Should Know Before Visiting The Forbidden City

It is recognized as one of the five most important palaces in the world (with the Palace of Versailles in France, Buckingham Palace in the UK, the White House in the US, and the Kremlin in Russia). Read on How to Visit the Forbidden City — for Discerning Travelers

• 4-Day Beijing Private Tour with Visit to Forbidden City
• 5-Day Beijing Family Tour - Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summmer Palace...
• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Tour
• More Beijing Tours...

What Our Customers Said

Fantastic What an epic day we had with or guide “Ivy” from the tour company “China Highlights” visiting Tianamen Square, Forbidden City, having a local Chinese meal and walking on the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu!! Ivy was informative, personable, fun, caring and delivered a great experience for us. Her guide experience was evident in her management and pace of our day and making sure we went to great picture locations that created lasting memories of our trip!! Highly recommend you asking for Ivy. more Mar 2023, Drew Walker

Adorable trip to Beijing with China Highlights Such an amazing time spent together with my husband and our guide Nancy in Beijing. We recommend booking the tour with China Highlights as that was an incredibly smart idea and trip we have had over past few days. Visiting the Great Wall of China, the Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven etc., getting more close to the history of China, having the delicious food - that was all done by the CH. We won’t be having such wonderful time without you guys. Still being so amazed and impressed by the historical progress of the country. Much appreciated for your support, help and time, Dear Nancy and China Highlights. Kind Regards, Kenneth&Assel Gillan more Mar 2023, Assel G

Great Wall Day Trip with Ivy She answered our questions thoroughly and she also provided us with recommendations for food and things to see outside of our Great Wall day trip. The driver was also a very safe driver and made it a comfortable drive from the city center. We hope to use China Highlights again for future trips. And if you’re in Beijing, you can request for Ivy as your guide. more Feb 2023, kattaubry

Great Wall Tour with Ivy Ivy was a wonderful guide! We took a day trip to the Great Wall and she made our time enjoyable and customized to what we wanted. She was obviously very knowledgeable and passionate about the city. We also avoided tourist traps and she took group photos for us! more Feb 2023, Customer

Great Wall Tour with Ivy We recommend booking with China Highlights! They were able to create a custom trip for us with just a day’s notice. They’re very responsive on WeChat and very professional. more Feb 2023, Customer

Fantastic Beijing Tour with Tour Guide - Angela Had a great time visiting Beijing over Chinese New Year! The city was quiet, but that made it easier to see everything that we wanted to. Our tour guide, Angela, was very knowledgeable and friendly. We found a local brewery, Slow Boat, that we went to twice it was so good. Amazing beer and best burger of my life! We can't wait to book another trip with China Highlights. more Feb 2023, Kate P

Beautiful experience in Beijing The Forbidden City was a highlight of the tour. With Christina's knowledgeable and engaging commentary, we learned about the history of the imperial palace and its role as the center of Chinese politics for over 500 years. The complex is massive, and it was impressive to see the intricate details of the architecture and gardens. more Feb 2023, Valeria RP

Amazing 2 day trip to Beijing Our guide Lily and driver Leo were amazing and super conscious that we were traveling with a toddler. Lily was knowledgeable about all of our stops and was very conscious of our time. She even took special time to relate and connect with our daughter which made the trip even more enjoyable for all of us. more Jan 2023, Jessica T

3. The Terracotta Army in Xi'an — 2,000-Year-Old Underground Army

The Terracotta Army in Xi'an

The Terracotta Army has laid underground for more than 2,000 years. However, in 1974, farmers digging a well uncovered one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world. In 1987 it became World Cultural Heritage.

It is significant because the hundreds of detailed life-size models represent the army that triumphed over all other Chinese armies in the Warring States Period (475—221 BC), and who were the decisive factor in forming a united China. It raises interesting questions about why it was made, which await your consideration when you come face-to-face with soldiers of the past. Read on The Top 10 Amazing Facts You Probably Don't Know about the Terracotta Army

You could make your own warriors at a cave dwelling where there are only a few craftsmen left who continue to work in a traditional way. Read more about Why and How the Terracotta Army Was Built

• 3-Day Essence of Xi'an Tour including Terracotta Warriors
• 11-Day Beijing – Xi'an – Guilin/Yangshuo – Shanghai Tour
• 13-Day Private Tour: Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu – Guilin – Hong Kong

4. Giant Pandas in Chengdu — China's "National Treasure"

Join in a Panda Keeper Program in Chengdu

The giant panda is not only deeply loved by the Chinese, but by many foreigners too, and not just children. Although there are many zoos in China and elsewhere, where you can see a giant panda, the best place to see them is Chengdu — the giant panda's "hometown".

There are three places you can see pandas close up: Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center, Dujiangyan Panda Valley, and Bifengxia Panda Base.

• Chengdu Panda Center is in the north of the city, and is more established.
• Bifengxia Panda Base is 2 hours from Chengdu, has more pandas, and you can see pandas more in their natural habitat.
• You can get even closer to the pandas by taking a volunteer program in Bifengxia or Dujiangyan Panda Valley, an hour outside Chengdu.

Read more about 13 Fascinating Facts about Giant Pandas

• 1-Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Program Tour - Once-in-a-Lifetime Panda Experience
• 4-Day Wolong In-Depth Panda Tour - Discover the Habitat of Wild Pandas
• 12-Day Panda Volunteer and China Classic Wonder Tour - Panda Keeper and Classic Wonders
• More Panda tours

5. Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve — Gemstone-Colored Lakes, Colorful Forests, Meadows

Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve

Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve is called the "the last pure land on earth" and "the last Shangri-La" due to its breathtaking natural scenery.

"I want to go there with my sweetheart to see the clear blue sky, the snowcapped mountains, and the golden meadows, to experience an autumn fairy tale." A Chinese romantic drama movie, I Belonged to You, made Daocheng a desirable romantic place to visit.

As early as 1928, the Austrian-American explorer Joseph F. Rock visited Daocheng and captured its beauty, printing pictures of it in the National Geographic magazine and making it known to the world.

The Tibetan culture experience is another highlight in this route. You can see many ancient monasteries and Tibetan style houses during the trip.

• 5-Day Chengdu, Daocheng, and Yading Tour - Walk in Fairy Tales of Autumn
• 8-Day Chengdu to Shangri-La Adventure Tour - Chengdu, Xinduqiao, Daocheng, Riwa, Xiangcheng, and Shangri-La
• 9-Day Panorama Western Sichuan Tour — Chengdu, Wolong (Baby Pandas), Rilong, Danba, Tagong, Litang, Riwa, Yajiang, and Moxi

All our tours can be customized. The itinerary can be adjusted according to your group size, time, budget, interests, and other requirements. Just contact us.

6. The Li River in Guilin & Yangshuo — China's Most Celebrated Scenery

The Reflection of the Limestone Peaks in the Li River

The karst landscape along the Li River has captured the heart of artists. Generations of Chinese painters and poets have been inspired by the beauty of nature there, using their pens and brushes to capture the breath-taking natural scenery. When Chinese travelers seek a place for natural beauty, they first think of Li River and Yangshuo.

The Li River was listed as one of the "World's Top Ten Watery Wonders" by America's National Geographic Magazine. Several world-famous figures have visited the Li River, including former US Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush (senior), and Bill Gates.

The 83-kilometer-long section of the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo is the most beautiful. The river landscape is decorated with startling hills, steep cliffs, and farming villages, and is lined with bamboo groves.

Taking a leisurely cruise or a 3–4-hour family-friendly moderate hike (more on Li River hiking) are good ways to enjoy the Li River's beauty.

You could challenge yourself to an SUP (stand-up paddleboard, i.e. a mini raft) on the Yulong River, take a bamboo raft, have a cycling tour into the countryside or take an exciting drive with an all-terrain vehicle.

• 5-Day Dynamic Guilin and Yangshuo Tour
• 6-Day Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longsheng Tour
• 11-Day Family Happiness: Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin/Yangshuo-Shanghai private tour

7. The Potala Palace in Tibet — Heart of the Roof of the World

Have a Family Photo In Front of the Potala Palace

The Potala Palace is a symbol of Tibet. In 1994 it was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. It is a huge treasure house of materials and articles from Tibetan history, religion, culture and art. The palace is widely known for the precious sculptures, murals, scriptures, Buddhist statues, antiques, and religious jewelry housed within.

You could witness the architectural miracle containing the regal heritage of Tibet, listen to stories of Dalai Lamas who lived in the palace, and view the palace from the four best angles.

Tibet doesn't accept independent travelers. Traveling with a travel agency is required. Read more about Tibet Travel Restrictions or contact us to explore the main highlights from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp.

• 4-Day Lhasa Highlights Tour
• 7-Days Tibet Tours by Train from Xining
• 8-Day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Private Tour
• 13-Day Beautiful China with Holy Tibet - Beijing, Xi'an, Lhasa, and Shanghai

8. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the inspiration of Avatar, is a must-see place for its out-of-this-world scenery. It is huge with many different scenic areas. The "floating mountains and peaks" that inspired Avatar are concentrated in this park.

The top-rated scenic areas are Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and Gold Whip Stream. These three areas can be visited by tourists any age.

Walking is not hard at the main attractions, where cable cars, elevators, a tram, and shuttle buses are available andconcrete paths and steps have been built.

• 4 Days Essence of Zhangjiajie
• 9 Days Minority Discovery in Zhangjiajie and Guizhou
• 14-Day Beijing – Xi'an – Zhangjiajie - Guilin/Yangshuo – Shanghai Private Tour - China Natural Wonders Discovery

9. The Mogao Caves in Dunhuang

The Mogao Caves in Dunhuang

"In the West there is the Louvre; in the East there are the Mogao Caves."

The Mogao Caves are famous for their exquisite murals and Buddhist statues. The Mogao Caves were included in UNESCO's world cultural heritage list in 1987.

Artists from different periods of the Middle Ages left their work there. All kinds of works spanning over one thousand years complement each other.

Standing out in the desert, the Mogao Caves are like a glittering pearl that adorns the Silk Road.

In addtion to visit these wonderful caves, you could get some hands-on archaeological experience. We can take you to the Dunhuang Research Academy. There, you can linger over copies of murals created by masters and can copy a sample mural on a mud slab with your own hands under the guidance of the teacher.

• 5-Day Dunhuang In-Depth Private Tour including Visit to Mogao Caves
• 11-Day Tour Along the Great Silk Road - Xi'an, Zhangye, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi , and Kashgar
• 13-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Dunhuang–Urumqi–Shanghai Tour - Silk Road Highlights and China's Gateway Cities

10. The Bund in Shanghai — Stunning Skyline, Colonial Architecture

Do Morning Excercises at the Bund

The Bund is one of the most recognizable architectural symbols of Shanghai. It showcases the world with its colonial European buildings and skyscrapers the other side of the Huangpu, housing one of the world's foremost business districts.

The Bund was Shanghai's most prosperous area in late 19th century and early 20th century. When the first British company opened an office at the Bund in 1846, it became the epitome of elegance.

Read on Top Things to Do in Shanghai

• 2-Day Shanghai's Old and New Collision
• 5-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou Bullet Train Tour
• 13-Day Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu – Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai Tour
• 13-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai Educational Family Vacation

11. West Lake in Hangzhou — Paradise on Earth

Nightview of the West Lake

Hangzhou is renowned as China's "paradise on earth" owing to its beautifully crafted landscape. West Lake was created after the Chinese love for garden-style parks for recreation.

West Lake is a place of tranquility where urbanity becomes a silhouette on the northeast horizon and mountains near and far surround it on the other three sides. The occasional pagoda and Chinese-style arched bridge add atmosphere to the tree-lined walkways, verdant islands, and hills. (Top 10 Beautiful Places of West Lake)

To admire the beauty of West Lake, you can leisurely bike around the lake, walk around the lake, or take a short cruise on the lake.

• 2-Day Hangzhou Highlights & Grand Canal Heritage Tour
• 4-Day Shanghai & Hangzhou with Watertown Tour
• 13-Day Shanghai - Hangzhou - Guilin - Xi'an - Beijing

12. The Yellow Mountains near Shanghai — Legendary Wonders

In east China, close to Shanghai and Hangzhou, the Yellow Mountain Scenic Area (Huangshan) woos travelers with its five wonders: sun rises, seas of clouds, oddly-shaped rocks, twisted pine trees, and hot springs.

The Yellow Mountains are the most famous peaks in China, and one of China's three best national parks — the other two being Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Jiuzhaigou National Forest Park. Compared to the two other national parks, Yellow Mountain National Park is easier to access, and, naturally, more popular and busy.

The villages nearby such as Hongcun Village were once considered to be the utopia of ancient China. Villagers have diverted water into "house gardens" and "water yards", which exist only in this village. The village, in its breathing-taking setting, looks like a Chinese painting. Canola flowers in spring can be the icing on a cake.

• 3-Day Ancient Villages and Yellow Mountains Tour
• 4-Day Trekking in the Yellow Mountains
• 15-Day Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Huangshan and Shanghai Tour
• More Huangshan tours

13. Victoria Harbor in Hong Kong — Mighty Skyscraper Skyline

Victoria Harbor in Hong Kong

The view over Victoria Harbour from Victoria Peak is to Hong Kong as climbing the Great Wall is to China; it offers the iconic outlook over Hong Kong's "high rise" to success and prosperity.

Victoria Peak is the best spot to have a bird's eye view of Hong Kong. Viewed from the peak, both day and night scenes are worth taking in. See high-rise buildings round the busy Victoria Harbour stretching out towards Chinese mainland. At night the scenery is gorgeous, when the Symphony of Lights of various buildings dances in unison.

Read on Top 10 Things to Do in Hong Kong

• Hong Kong Island Half-Day Tour
• 4-Day Hong Kong Family Tour to Disneyland and Hong Kong Island
• 13 Days Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Guilin - Hong Kong

14. Lijiang Old Town in Yunnan — Cobbled Pedestrian Streets, Small Waterways

The Big Waterwheels in Lijiang Old Town

Lijiang Old Town in Yunnan is characterized by ancient cobbled streets, stone bridges, and water-wheel-driven canals decorated with flowers. Shops, cafés, bars, restaurants, snack stalls, and hotels can be found everywhere.

The big waterwheels are a landmark of Lijiang Old Town. As you enter the old town, you will see them. The river flowing through the old town keeps them rotating. Bar Street is next to them, which is busy at night.

You could also go to Naxi Hieroglyphs and Painting Exhibition Hall to experience Naxi art. The Naxi are the only people who still use hieroglyphs to write in the world.

• 3-Day Essence of Ancient Lijiang Tour
• 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour - Meet the Amazing Beauty of Yunnan
• 9-Day Yunnan Family Tour - Kunming, Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La

All our Yunnan tours can be customized. Contact us to create a trip for you according to your group size, time, budget, interests, and other requirements.

15. Erhai Lake in Dali — One of the Most Beautiful Lakes in China

Erhai Lake

Erhai Lake is the most beautiful place in Dali. It is a plateau lake. Erhai Lake is in the shape of an ear, hence its name Erhai ('Ear Sea'). This plateau lake is like a deep blue gem set in the green land. The water of the lake is calm and blue. The soft and gentle wind by the lake will make you feel relaxed.

Every December, flocks of black-headed gulls from Siberia fly in to spend the winter at Erhai Lake.

Biking is the best way to travel around the lake. Capturing the beauty of the landscape bathed in sunshine and breezes is a real pleasure. There are two cycle routes around Erhai Lake: Haixi (on Erhai's west shore) and Haidong (on Erhai's east shore). Haixi route is more suitable for young or inexperienced riders. Haidong route is quiet and has panoramic views. Contact us to arrange mountain bikes with helmets for you.

• 4-Day Dynamic Dali Tour - Hike and Bike
• 6-Day Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang Tour - Yunnan Ethnic Minorities Tour
• 7-Day Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour - A Feast of Landscapes and Ethnic Minority Culture

The Most Popular China Tour Itineraries

Connect with locals and their life

Here are two best tours for your inspiration.

• The Golden Triangle (8 days): Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai — the most popular destinations for a first trip
• Classic Wonders (11 days): Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, and Shanghai — classic architecture, culture, and scenery
• Find more ideas from our China tours.

If you can't decide where to go or how to, don't hesitate to contact our specialists, who will help you to maximize your travel experience by suggesting the optimal trip for the time you have and the places you want to see.