China is known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural traditions that draw visitors from around the globe. Experience hiking trails on China’s famous Great Wall as well as visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Hukou Waterfall or Lijiang’s ancient towns steeped in ethnic minority traditions.
Take a stroll along Xiamen’s charming Gulangyu Island, featuring colonial architecture from 13 different nations, or experience Wuyishan’s famed tea culture for an unforgettable experience.
1. Wuyuan
Jiangxi Province holds an exceptional gem known as “the most beautiful countryside in China,” where visitors can take pleasure in breathtaking natural scenery and profound culture. Explore villages adorned with ancient Hui-style architecture as you traverse enchanted landscapes that boast green ridges, lush tea plants, and flowing rivers – an experience like no other!
Engulfed by forests and mountains, mountain lakes like Kanas Lake – famous for its shifting hues – showcase Wuyuan’s magnificent beauty. Adjacent to Kanas Lake lies a village inhabited by Tuwan tribe, an ethnic Mongolian family dedicated to Lamaism that can introduce you to centuries-old traditions that enrich your Wuyuan exploration experience.
Other notable scenic spots in China include UNESCO-listed Zhangjiajie, which features dreamlike sandstone pillars and mist-shrouded peaks that conjure images of Avatar’s Hallelujah Mountains; Yunnan’s Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge and Dali; as well as Guilin’s lush valleys with dramatic cliffs or the serene mudflats of Xiapu.
2. Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie, which served as inspiration for Avatar’s Hallelujah Mountains, should not be missed. With sprawling forests and sandstone formations that will take your breath away, hiking trails weave their way through scenic forests alongside crystal-clear streams – making for an unforgettable experience when crossing over to walk the Glass Bridge over Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon!
Discover Yunnan, where natural wonders meet vibrant Tibetan culture. Experience thrills as you scale Daocheng Yading region’s towering peaks such as Chenrezig Mountain (known for resembling a reclining Buddha), Xiannairi Mountain and others that await discovery!
Start an exhilarating adventure through China’s most breathtaking places, from Beijing’s royal sounds to Zhangjiajie’s magical landscape, on this exciting tour through ancient echoes and modern marvels alike.
3. Shanghai
China’s captivating landscapes and time-honored culture attract visitors from around the globe, whether that means snow-capped peaks and glaciated lakes or stunning canyons with karst landforms and stunning canyons – it truly is a natural wonder filled with breathtaking sights that visitors cannot stop marveling at!
Shanghai is a captivating city filled with charming streets, traditional temples and vibrant markets. Notable landmarks include its glittery skyline and iconic waterfront promenade known as The Bund; Yu Garden provides serene refuge among its ancient pavilions, towers, ponds and landscaped grounds.
Lijiang’s ancient towns showcase authentic ethnic minority customs and lifestyles from across its many ethnic minorities. Stroll down cobbled streets of Old Town or visit Shuhe Ancient Town for an insight into Naxi, Bai, and Tibetan traditions.
Danxia landscape in the remote northwest, recognized by UNESCO and nicknamed “Rainbow Mountains”, boasts vibrant hues. Marvel at its curvy, layered rock formations that resemble rainbows against blue skies; also a popular spot among photographers and essential part of Chinese Silk Road sightseeing and cultural tours.
4. Putuo Mountain
Guanyin (Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara), one of China’s Four Sacred Mountains and Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Legend has it that she appeared here and left behind numerous historical sites as proof.
Putuo Mountain’s most important temples are Puji and Fayu. Visitors can pay their respects to Not-Willing-to-Leave Guanyin at Puji Temple, situated within an attractive lotus pond with an 8-meter-high statue that can be seen from all directions. Fayu Temple features its own striking 8-meter statue.
Lianhua Island stands on the opposite shore of Lake Tai, where local artist Zhu Renming purchased it and used 15 years to transform it into a vibrant art oasis – now filled with more than 500 statues depicting arhats in vivid poses and expressions.
Putuo Mountain is an idyllic retreat for nature enthusiasts, as well as those who appreciate peaceful walks through its temples and religious relics. Boasting an oceanic climate, Putuo Mountain makes a visit worthwhile in any season; though for maximum scenic glory visit during spring or summer.
5. Jiuzhaigou Valley
Jiuzhaigou Valley in northern Sichuan is one of China’s most breathtaking natural scenic spots and an UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting lime formations and colorful terrace ponds among its numerous natural landscapes. Travelers visiting this site can also see wild animals such as pandas, bamboo forests, and exotic plants such as bamboo.
Jiuzhaigou Valley boasts more than 100 lakes with crystal-clear water due to a high calcium carbonate concentration, creating an amazing scene due to karst erosion and deposition processes.
Lakebeds covered with various travertine deposits are surrounded by moss, ferns and natural bonsai trees and bushes – an excellent spot for natural bonsai trees and shrubs. Autumn is the ideal time for visitors to enjoy this breathtaking national park! For maximum effect visit it before October.
Jiuzhaigou should be visited during off-peak seasons such as June, July and August when visitors can expect heavy crowds and long lines that might obstruct its natural beauty. Instead, winter offers more enjoyable experiences because mountains covered in snow make for picturesque scenes without too many people around to spoil the view.
