30 Best Places to Visit in China

China is one of the most visited countries in Asia. Its vast landscape features everything from deserts and majestic mountains to beautiful coastlines and grasslands. Thus, a trip to this beautiful country is bound to stay with tourists for a long time.

While planning to visit China, check the exchange rate for the country and ensure to carry enough money in Chinese Yuan to cover all your expenses during your stay.

Currency in China: The official currency in China is the Chinese Yuan. 1 Chinese Yuan is equal to 11.95 INR* as of 29 March 2023.

*Currency rate change is subject to the market exchange rate.

China is a land of ancient treasures and picturesque natural places. Given below is a list of top places that tourists can visit on their trip to China. Keep reading to know the top tourist places to visit in China. The top 30 tourist places to visit in China include historical sites, great monuments, theme parks, natural places, world UNESCO sites, and many more. Check out the list below:

China has several world-famous historical places, many of which are UNESCO Heritage Sites. Here is a list of the most popular ones:

1. The Great Wall of China, Huairou

The Great Wall of China is one of the most recognizable attractions in the world. As a traveller, you should miss out on this marvel of creation during a trip to China. However, it is considered one of the greatest architectural wonders in the history of humanity and also a great historical place to satisfy your longing for exploring the glorious past.

• Popular tourist attractions: Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Jiankou.
• Things to do: Hiking, exploring the Great Wall at night under the stars, and camping on the monument.
• Location: Huairou District, China
• Timing: Throughout the day

2. The Terracotta Army, Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi

This is an assembly of almost 8000 life-sized statues of soldiers and 500 statues of horses and replicas of almost 100 chariots. It is like a place of living history where you will be thrilled with an ancient charm. Besides, you can also visit some nearby places to have a complete day trip.

• Popular tourist attractions: Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an Museum, Xian Tangle Palace
• Things to do: Exploring local festivals, Xi’an food tours, watching Tang Dynasty show
• Location: Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi
• Timing: 8:30 am to 5 pm

3. Beijing Ancient Observatory, Dongcheng

Technological advancement is a remarkable characteristic of China. There are several instances of such technical advancements throughout the city and Beijing Ancient Observatory is one of those. This observatory was made before the invention of the telescope in 1442. This Ming Dynasty observatory is one of the oldest observatories in the whole world.

• Popular tourist attractions: The Palace Museum, Great Wall of China, Beihai Park, Summer Palace
• Things to do: Enjoying the city view, exploring the historic architecture
• Location: 2 Dongbiao Bei Hutong, Dongcheng
• Timing: Throughout the day

4. The Temple of Heaven, Dongcheng

Located in central Beijing, The Temple of Heaven holds religious importance. The temple was made to offer prayer to God during harvest time. This is one of the most beautiful imperial structures in China and people throughout the world come to explore the rich history and architectural excellence here.

• Popular tourist attractions: The Palace Museum, The Great Wall of China, Jingshan Park, National Center of Performing Art
• Things to do: Religious activities, exploring history and culture, watching architectural excellence
• Location: 1 Tiantan E Rd, Dongcheng
• Timing: 8 am to 5 pm

5. Ming Tombs, Changping

This place has the tomb of the emperor Ming and also several other tombs. Altogether there are 13 tombs in this place and it is considered one of the most sacred places in China. People come here to explore the great historical architectural excellence. Apart from this, there are several nearby attractions that you can visit to have an overall great trip.

• Popular tourist attractions: Lama Temple, Juyong Pass, Dingling, Jingshan Park
• Things to do: Indulging in spiritual activities, exploring the history
• Location: 212 Provincial Rd, Changping District
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm

6. Great Wall of Badaling, Yanqing

The Great Wall of Badaling is the most visited part of the Great Wall of China. The military outpost of the Ming dynasty was located in this part. Mainly, this region is famous for exploring the history and ancient architecture from the remaining ruins. You will be thrilled with the historical charm here.

• Popular tourist attractions: Juyong Pass, Yahoo Wetland Park, Badaling Wildlife World
• Things to do: Exploring the history of the Ming Dynasty, watching artistic structure
• Location: Yanqing District
• Timing: 7:30 am to 6 pm

7. The Fayuan Temple, Xicheng

The Fayuan Temple is another great place in China that offers a vivid picture of history and authentic Chinese architectural excellence. There are different beautiful cultural relics and historic sculptures in this temple. History lovers can have a great day outing in this place in China.

• Popular tourist attractions: The Palace Museum, Summer Palace, National Museum of China, Forbidden City
• Things to do: Exploring the historical and cultural relics, exploring ancient art and architecture
• Location:  Xicheng District, Beijing
• Timing: 8 am to 5 pm

8. Forbidden City, Beijing

This palace complex is opulent in the truest sense of the term. The many imperial gardens surrounding the Forbidden City, the Imperial Ancestral Temple, Beihai Park, and Jingshan Park are some of the most famous places in China. This 15th-century palace complex was the winter residence of the Chinese emperor from the Ming dynasty.

• Popular tourist attractions:  The Palace Museum and the historical buildings are part of the complex premises.
• Things to do: Take a guided tour and learn about the historical significance of the Forbidden City.
• Location: Beijing
• Timing: Throughout the day

9. Imperial Palace, Beijing

The imperial palace is one of the most beautiful places to visit in China. This palace features a huge number of historical artefacts, and expensive furniture worth more than a million dollars. Thus, the place holds great historical value and attracts history lovers from all over the world.

• Popular tourist attractions: Two-tiered bridge, the East Garden of Imperial Palace, Chidoriga-Fuchi park
• Things to do: Exploring ancient Chinese art and culture, marvelling at the gorgeous architecture
• Location: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing
• Timing: 8 am to 5 pm

10. Potala Palace, Lhasa

Potala Palace is one of the most magnificent palaces in China which receives a huge number of visitors in every tourist season. The palace was a living place of the Dalai lama so it has historical and religious importance too. Potala Palace is divided into the red fort and white fort and both of them showcase different attractive things.

• Popular tourist attractions: Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Lukhang, Ramoche Temple
• Things to do: Exploring ancient wood and stone structures, visiting Golden Stupa, visiting two forts in Potala Palace
• Location: 35 Central Beijing Road, Lhasa
• Timing: 9:30 am 2 pm

Here are a few UNESCO sites that are extremely popular tourist destinations in China:

11. Leshan Giant Buddha, Lehshan

(233 feet), Leshan Giant Buddha was built between 713 and 803 AD. This gigantic sculpture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Leshan Giant Buddha is a must-visit for those interested in architecture, religion, and culture.

• Popular tourist attractions: The giant Buddha sculpture
• Things to do: Offer prayers and explore the stunning sculpture.
• Location: Shizhong District, Leshan
• Timing: 8 am to 6 pm

12. Summer Palace, Haidian

The Summer Palace is an imperial garden in Beijing that features beautiful lakes and magnificent palaces. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Summer Palace is home to thousands of ancient Chinese buildings, replete with historical relics.

•  Popular tourist attractions: Kunming Lake, 17-hole bridge, and Longevity Hill.
• Things to do: Explore historical sites of the Qing Dynasty.
• Location: Haidian District
• Timing: 8 am to 5 pm

13. Classical Gardens of Suzhou, Jiangsu

The Classical Gardens of Suzhou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The many gardens here were built over a period of a thousand years by scholars belonging to different dynasties, from the Northern Song to the Qing. The gardens are a reflection of the various past civilizations.

• Popular tourist attractions: Humble Administrator's Garden, Suzhou Museum, and Lion Grove Garden.
• Things to do: Explore the beautiful gardens.
• Location: Jiangsu China
• Timing: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm

14. The Mausoleum of Light, Shaanxi

The Mausoleum of Light is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China and a very popular pilgrim spot as well. This is a famous epicentre of authentic Chinese culture and history. However, tourists from different regions come to explore the marvellous architecture of this place. In addition, there are also different other tourist spots that people can explore and have a perfect day trip.

• Popular tourist attractions: Nanjing Underwater World, Qinhuai river boat tour, Sun Yatsen Mausoleum, Confucius Temple
• Things to do: Exploring art, architecture, and history, indulging in religious activities
• Location: Jiuzong Mountain, Shaanxi
• Timing: 6:30 am to 6:30 pm

When touring through China, you should check out these places with charming views:

15. West Lake, Hangzhou

This freshwater lake in Hangzhou is a piece of heaven. The numerous natural and artificial islands on West Lake feature pagodas, gardens, and temples, making it one of the most famous tourist places in China.

• Popular tourist attractions: Leifeng Pagoda, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and Lingyin Temple.
• Things to do: Visit the numerous natural islands and artificial islands, temples and pagodas
• Location: Xihu District, Hangzhou
• Timing: Throughout the day

16. Yangshuo County, Guilin City

karst mountain landscape. The untouched natural beauty and tranquil settings make Yangshuo County one of the best tourist attractions in China.

• Popular tourist attractions: Shiwai Taoyuan, Yulonghe scenic area, and Nine Horses Mountain.
• Things to do: Take in natural beauty and relax in a tranquil setting.
• Location: Guilin City
• Timing: 8 am to 5:30 pm

17. The Bund, Huangpu

The Bund is a waterfront area in Shanghai frequented by locals and tourists in large numbers. Several historical buildings lining the Huangpu River add to the charm of this waterfront area. Formerly home to the British and US settlements, The Bund is one of the most popular places in China.

• Popular tourist attractions: Huangpu Park, Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, and Huangpu River Cruise.
• Things to do: Take a stroll while taking in the stunning views.
• Location: Huangpu, Shanghai
• Timing: Throughout the day

18. Li River, Guangxi

Li River is a beautiful attraction in China that offers a marvellous countryside view to visitors. This region is surrounded by mountains and lakes making it an ideal place to enjoy the bliss of nature. Apart from this, you will also enjoy different water sports activities, trekking and hiking here.

• Popular tourist attractions: Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave, Yangshuo Park, Seven Star Park
• Things to do: Exploring the riverside villages, enjoying nature, indulging in watersports activities
• Location: Guangxi Zhuang
• Timing: Throughout the day

19. Yangtze River and the Three Gorges, West Yichang

well. The river acts as a medium of local transportation so you can travel easily across the river. Tourists can enjoy watching the beauty of the river and the nature of the surrounding region.

• Popular tourist attractions: Beiheliang, Three Gorges Dam, Shennong Stream, Qu Yuan Temple
• Things to do: Nature walk, enjoying the beauty of the river, exploring the villages
• Location: Zigui County, Yichang
• Timing: Throughout the day

20. Elephant Trunk Hill, Gunanmen

Elephant Trunk Hill is a famous place in China, popular for its amazing natural structure. The place is well-visited for its natural abundance and historical allusions. In addition, there is a mystic charm in this place and the people enjoy the mesmerising beauty of the setting sun here.

• Popular tourist attractions: Guilin Rongshanhu Scenic Area, Xiangshan Scenic Area, Jingjiang Princes' Palace, Puxian Tower, Gunanmen
• Things to do: Exploring Guilin city, enjoying nature, exploring the surrounding area
• Location: Xiangshan District, Guilin
• Timing: Throughout the day

21. Fubo Hill, Guilin

Fubo Hill is another tourist attraction in China that is famous as a “wonderland on the wave”. This exotic destination has many things to offer tourists. You can enjoy the blissful nature, explore the diverse flora and also get into several adventure sports.

• Popular tourist attractions: Reed Flute Cave, Seven Trunk Hill, Elephant Trunk Hill, Mulong Lake, Pearl Returning Cave
• Things to do: nature walking, trekking, hiking
• Location: Binjiang Rd, Guilin
• Timing: Throughout the day

22. Yu Garden, Huangpu

Nothing can be more peaceful than a relaxing day trip to a beautiful garden. If you are in China, you can visit Yu Garden which is a historical garden in Southeast China. The garden was built during the Ming Dynasty and it is full of greenery, grand monuments, and artificial mountains. The garden is divided into six parts: Sansui Hall, the Wanhua Chamber, the Dianchun Hall, the Huijing Hall, the Yuhua Hall, and the Inner Garden.

• Popular tourist attractions: The Bund, Shanghai Tower, People’s Square, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Tower
• Things to do: Enjoying natural beauty, relaxing day trips, nature walk
• Location: Huangpu, Shanghai
• Timing: 8 am to 5 pm

Everybody loves pandas, and China is the only place you can find them. You should not miss the chance to see them in real life:

23. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu

Pandas are synonymous with China. The cute and cuddly bears that are a huge hit on the internet can be found here in large numbers. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must-visit for animal lovers.

• Popular tourist attractions: Cute and cuddly panda bears
• Things to do: Click pictures of pandas and watch them in their natural habitat.
• Location: Chenghua District, Chengdu, Sichuan
• Timing: 7:30 am to 5 pm

24. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan

If you are a wildlife lover, then consider visiting Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural abundance. In addition, the National Park has “The Bailong Elevator” which is the tallest “outdoor lift” in the world. It can carry 50 people at a time and you can witness the breathtaking view of this national park by riding on it.

• Popular tourist attractions: Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, Bailong Elevator, Wulingyuan, Tianmen Mountain
• Things to do: Watching wildlife, trekking and hiking, nature photography, riding the “world’s tallest lift)
• Location: Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie, Hunan
• Timing: 6:30 am to 9:59 am, 10:00 am to 1:30 pm, 1:30 pm to 4 pm

You can visit adventure parks when looking to have a fun-packed day with your family on a tour in China.

25. Shanghai Disney Resort, Pudong

The world-famous theme park chain Disneyland has one of its branches in Shanghai. The Shanghai Disney Resort is one of the best tourist places in China for families. Here, children can meet and greet their favourite Disney characters along with enjoying the different fun rides installed across the expansive park.

• Popular tourist attractions: Adventure rides
• Things to do: Experience thrilling rides and hobnob with Disney characters.
• Location: Pudong, Shanghai
• Timing: 8:30 am to 9:30 pm

26. Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park, Pudong

It is an ocean-themed park on the eastern sea coast of China. The park has 5 parts along with beautiful hotels and restaurants. You will enjoy the mesmerising seascape, diverse marine ecology, etc. here. One of the main attractions of this place is the five-star animal-themed hotel rooms. Apart from this, you can also enjoy adventure sports here.

• Popular tourist attractions: Shanghai Planetarium, Donghai Bridge, Shanghai Binhai Guyuan, Nanhuizui Guanhai Park
• Things to do: Enjoying the mesmerising ocean view, enjoying watersports, staying in animal-themed hotels
• Location: Shanghai Shi, Pudong
• Timing: 9 am to 5:30 pm

Museums of China offer a great deal of the history of different glorious empires in China. Here are some of the famous museums that you can visit:

27. National Museum of China, Dongcheng

The Museum of China is one of the most visited places and the source of exploring the bright history of the country. You can explore the proud history of several Chinese dynasties and watch the historical artefacts. The place is well-governed by the Ministry of Culture of China.

• Popular tourist attractions: The Palace Museum, Beihai Park, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square
• Things to do: Exploring history, arts, and artefacts
• Location: 16 E Chang'an Ave, Dongcheng
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm

28. Shanghai Museum, Huangpu

Shanghai Museum is another famous tourist attraction in China with many things to offer. You can witness almost 12000 rare historical pieces in this museum and many more. There are galleries, exhibition halls, etc., spread throughout the museum. You can explore Chinese sculptures, paintings, metal artefacts, and several other historical elements in this museum.

• Popular tourist attractions: China Art Museum, Shanghai Ocean Museum, Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
• Things to do: Watching the collection of a huge number of historical artefacts
• Location: Ren Min Guang Chang, Huangpu
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm

Some other great places that you can visit in China are as follows:

29. Tiananmen Square, Beijing

You can explore the authentic city life of China by visiting Tiananmen Square in Beijing. This is a hotspot for cultural heritage and history. Thus, apart from enjoying the modern bustling business city life of China, you can also visit some historical monuments too. The Mausoleum of Mao Zedong is one of the great attractions in this place.

• Popular tourist attractions: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, The Palace Museum, National Museum of China
• Things to do: Exploring the local city life, visiting popular attractions, museums, etc.
• Location: Beijing
• Timing: Throughout the day

30. Hong Kong Skyline, Kowloon

The Hong Kong Skyline is a great place to watch the whole city from the top of it. The gorgeous blue hills and lush greenery will make you feel refreshed from the inside. Apart from this, you can also ride the ferries and enjoy the gorgeous 360-degree laser light show.

• Popular tourist attractions: Hongkong Disneyland, Hong Kong Tramways, Star Ferry, Ocean Park
• Things to do: Enjoying the top view of the gorgeous city of Hong Kong
• Location: South Kowloon Peninsula in Hong Kong
• Timing: Throughout the day