Last updated on March 1st, 2025 at 11:15 am
During our month-long itinerary in China, we explored some of the country’s most famous landmarks alongside some hidden gems.
We’ve created a list of the top places to visit in China based on our personal experiences. From the iconic Great Wall of China to the lesser-known serene landscapes of Yangshuo, this travel guide will highlight the country’s best tourist attractions, ensuring you have an unforgettable journey through China.
Do I need a Visa for China?
In the past, many people were put off visiting China due to the complicated process of obtaining a visa for China. However, we have good news!
In November 2024, China introduced a 30-day visa-free policy for 35 countries, including Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
While the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom are not included on this list, we have some good news for you as well! Citizens can now apply for a 240-hour China transit visa, up from the previous 72-hour limit. This means you can enjoy a visit to China for up to 10 days!
If you plan to visit Hong Kong or the gambling haven of Macau, no visa is necessary.
Our Journey Through China: Discovering the Best Places to See in China
Regardless of whether you have a one-month itinerary in China or are on the new 10-day transit visa, you are in for an unforgettable experience exploring some of the most incredible destinations in China.
Let’s start with the obvious one and then dive into the real hidden gems of China as we work our way down the list.
1. The Great Wall of China – Beijing
Let’s be realistic, no journey to China is complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China, one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
Stretching over 13,000 miles, this historic world wonder was originally built to protect China from invasions from the Mongols, but now it stands as a symbol of Chinese strength and resilience. The Great Wall of China is a must-see when in Beijing, offering both scenic views and a glimpse into China’s history.
Whether traveling independently to the popular Badaling section from Beijing or taking a tour to the quieter Mutianyu section, witnessing the Great Wall of China is honestly a travel bucket list sight you won’t forget – just don’t go on a National holiday, unless you like the feeling of thousands of people walking next to you!
Visiting the Great Wall of China is at the top of the best things to see in our China list for good reasons!
2. Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors and Xi’an City Walls
As one of China’s ancient capitals, Xi’an is brimming with historical significance, and two of Xian’s most famous attractions are the Terracotta Warriors and the Xi’an City Wall.
The Terracotta Warriors were created to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Over 8,000 soldiers, each with a unique face, were discovered in 1974 and have become one of the most iconic China attractions. The scale and detail of the Terracotta Warriors are mind-blowing, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Equally impressive is the Xi’an City Wall, which is the largest and one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in the world. Visitors can walk or bike around the wall which is 14 kilometers in length, enjoying panoramic views of Xian where the old and modern blend in together,
You don’t have to walk the entire length of the Xi’an City Wall, but seeing as we are Happy Irish WANDERERS, we decided to take on the whole route! If you prefer to explore only a portion of it, we recommend walking the southern side of the Xi’an City Wall for the best views.
The Terracotta Warriors and Xi’an City Wall were high on our China bucket list and in our opinion are two must-visit places in China.
Before you head off on your China trip be sure to read which China travel apps to download – trust us, this is very important information when visiting China!
3. Mount Huashan – Shaanxi Province
If you love hiking through breathtaking landscapes, and you are a bit of a thrill-seeker Mount Huashan should be on your China bucket list. Located in Shaanxi Province, and one hour by train from Xi’an, Mount Huashan is one of the Five Sacred Mountains of China, known for its steep cliffs and panoramic scenery.
The highlight of Huashan Mountain is the terrifying Huashan Plank Walk, a narrow wooden pathway clinging to the side of the cliff, offering vertigo-inducing views. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, this is one of the best things to do in China.
But don’t worry – if you’re not a thrill-seeker, there are plenty of other scenic spots to explore on the mountain, including ancient temples and beautiful hiking trails. Either way, Mount Huashan is worth visiting.
Enjoy a hassle-free day trip to Mt. Huashan from Xi’an, with your transportation and roundtrip cable car ride organized, giving you plenty of time to explore one of China’s hidden gems.
4. Chengdu – Pandas and Leshan Giant Buddha
Chengdu is the must-visit destination to see China’s most famous animals – which are of course pandas. Additionally, a great day trip from Chengdu is a visit to the largest carved Buddha statue in the world in Leshan.
First up, head to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to witness the adorable pandas in their natural habitat. Seeing these lazy bamboo-munching teddy bears in real life is a major highlight and truly one of the best things to do in China.
A short day trip from Chengdu to Leshan leads you to the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha in the world. Carved into a cliff, this towering statue stands at an impressive 71 meters tall and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you want to combine wildlife and cultural heritage, Chengdu is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in China.
To save time you can meet China’s beloved Giant Panda on this tour from Chengdu, as well as, visit the UNESCO-listed Leshan Giant Buddha steeped in over 1,000 years of history. Now that is a day in China well spent!
5. Chongqing – A Mega City Like No Other
Welcome to Chongqing, a massive metropolis with over 32 million residents – yes read that number again!! Unsurprisingly, this mega city in China has a reputation for being one of the most exciting for good reasons!
Imagine if Hong Kong and Dubai had a baby – Chongqing would be it! We absolutely loved our time in Chongqing and coming from our small island of Ireland, our minds were blown!
Chongqing is an urban jungle of towering skyscrapers and neon lights, set against the backdrop of the Yangtze River. The unique geography of the city, built on hills and valleys, adds to its charm, making it one of the most exciting cities to visit in China.
For the best Chongqing city views, take a ride on the Yangtze River Cableway, offering stunning panoramas of this gigantic city. Another fun and unique attraction is the bizarre Hechuan Railway Station, where trains pass right through the building, imagine living there!
Lastly, a must-visit in Chongqing is Hongya Cave, don’t let the name mislead you as it’s actually a stunning cliffside complex filled with shops and restaurants
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6. Wulong Karst – A Day Trip from Chongqing
Next up on our list of best places to see in China is a short day trip from Chongqing to Wulong Karst.
This UNESCO World Heritage site in China is famous for its dramatic limestone landscapes, deep ravines, and extraordinary natural bridges.
Hiking through this spectacular destination made famous by the Transformers movie franchise offers a chance to connect with nature and explore one of the most remarkable natural attractions in China.
7. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is one of the most visually striking places on our list of the best things to see in China, and dare we say some of the most unique landscapes in the world.
With towering sandstone pillars reaching up to 200 meters high, it’s no wonder this park inspired the landscapes in James Cameron’s film Avatar.
Visitors can take a cable car or hike to witness the unparalleled views of this unique natural wonder. If you’re an adventurer, Zhangjiajie offers some of the most surreal and breathtaking landscapes in the world.
Check out the incredible 2-day guided tour below to visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Glass Bridge, Yuanjiajie Mountain, Tianzi Mountain, Golden Whip Stream, and more.
8. Fenghuang Ancient Town – Hunan Province
If you’re looking for a China destination straight out of a postcard, look no further than Fenghuang Ancient Town (also known as Phoenix Ancient Town).
Located in Hunan Province, this picturesque town features traditional Chinese wooden houses on stilts along the Tuojiang River. The charm of Fenghuang truly comes alive at night when the town is lit up by lanterns, giving it a magical atmosphere.
With its rich cultural heritage and unique architecture, Fenghuang is a perfect stop to experience an authentic ancient town in China and truly deserves its spot as one of the best places to see in China.
9. Yangshuo – Guilin’s Countryside
Yangshuo, located just outside the city of Guilin, is a serene escape into the beauty of China’s countryside.
Yangshuo is famous for its stunning limestone karst mountains, winding rivers, and traditional farming villages. You can easily explore some of China’s most breathtaking landscapes by renting a bike or taking a scenic river cruise along the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo.
The tranquil beauty of Yangshuo offers a perfect balance to the bustling cities and is one of the best things to see in China for nature lovers.
10. Shanghai – China’s Modern Marvel
Finally, let’s finish our list of the best places to see in China with Shanghai, one of the most dynamic and futuristic cities in the world.
Known for its iconic skyline and modern architecture, Shanghai offers a vibrant blend of tradition and the evolution of modern-day China.
You can visit iconic spots like The Bund, where you’ll get stunning views of Shanghai’s historic colonial buildings as well as the futuristic skyline.
For a taste of the city’s rich culture, the Jade Buddha Temple offers a peaceful escape, while the Shanghai Museum showcases impressive Chinese art. Did you know that there’s even a Shanghai Disneyland?!
With its diverse attractions, as well as, having a reputation as a top destination for food lovers, Shanghai undoubtedly offers something for every kind of traveler. With so much to offer, Shanghai stands out as one of the best cities in the world and a pretty cool place to visit in China.
Go on, we know you are now curious about finding out how much a flight to China will cost you!
Enjoy Exploring All the Best Places to See in China!
China is a vast and diverse country, full of ancient wonders, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re walking the Great Wall of China, gazing at the Leshan Giant Buddha, or exploring the wild landscapes of Zhangjiajie, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Each destination offers its own unique charm, and we’ve selected the best places to see in China that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
We absolutely loved our trip to China, so much so, we are currently planning a second 30-day China itinerary to embark on. So keep watch for a Best Places to See in China: Part 2!
Have you visited any of these amazing places in China? We’d love to hear from you and learn about your own favorite China attractions. Let’s continue the conversation!
If you have any questions then leave us a comment below, and don’t forget to check out our socials for our latest adventures!
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