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ExploreChina, a country steeped in history and blessed with diverse landscapes, is a treasure trove of extraordinary tourist attractions. Whether you seek ancient wonders or natural marvels, this vast nation offers an abundance of sites that will leave you spellbound.
For first-time visitors, it's essential to explore the iconic attractions in China's top destinations to gain an overall understanding of the country's ancient and modern facets. Nature lovers can immerse themselves in breathtaking natural landscapes, while culture enthusiasts can delve into the historical and cultural treasures for a more profound experience.
To ensure a well-planned and fulfilling China tour, peruse our latest China travel articles. They provide valuable insights and tips on how to make the most of your time in each destination. From must-see landmarks to off-the-beaten-path gems, our articles will help you navigate through the multitude of attractions, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
So, embark on a voyage of discovery, armed with knowledge and inspiration from our China travel articles. Let China's beauty and allure captivate you as you explore its enchanting attractions.
(A Tapestry of Ancient Wonders and Modern Marvels)
The Great Wall of China is a vast and complex system of fortifications that stretches across several Chinese provinces. While some of the most popular and well-known sections of the wall are located near Beijing, there are many other sections of the wall that are worth visiting and can be accessed from other cities. Here are the places to visit the Great Wall of China:
1.Great Wall of Beijing: The most popular and well-known sections of the wall are located near Beijing, such as the Mutianyu Great Wall, Jingshanling Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall, Jiankou Great Wall, and Badaling Great Wall.
2. Great Wall of Shanhaiguan: This section of the Great Wall is located in Qinhuangdao, a coastal city in Hebei province. It is known for its unique architecture and stunning coastal views.
3. Great Wall of Jiayuguan: This section of the Great Wall is located in Jiayuguan, a city in Gansu province. It is known for its western-style fortifications and desert landscapes.
4. Great Wall of Dunhuang: This section of the Great Wall is located in Dunhuang, a city in Gansu province. It is known for its colorful murals and stunning desert landscapes.
5. Great Wall of Henan Province: There are several sections of the Great Wall located in Henan province, including the Yuntai Mountain section and the Yinxu section, which is known for its ancient ruins.
6. Great Wall of Inner Mongolia: There are several sections of the Great Wall located in Inner Mongolia, including the Hulunbuir Grassland section and the Hohhot section, which is known for its unique architecture.
Xian has many must-see attractions, including the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, the Ancient City Wall, the Shaanxi History Museum, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Muslim Quarter.
Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum Layout
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, which houses the main pits containing the warriors, is divided into three sections: Pit 1, Pit 2, and Pit 3.
Pit 1: The largest and most impressive of the three pits, Pit 1, houses the main army formation, with over 6,000 figures (2,000 are currently on display). The pit covers an area of approximately 14,260 square meters, equivalent to the size of an airplane hangar.
Pit 2: This pit is notable for its complex layout and variety of military figures, including standing and kneeling archers, cavalry, charioteers, and infantry. Despite being smaller than Pit 1, Pit 2 offers a richer diversity of the army, providing further insights into ancient military strategy and the mysteries of the army array.
Pit 3: Known as the command center, Pit 3 is the smallest but considered the most important pit due to its perceived role as the army's "headquarters."
Our Recommended Visiting Route: Pit 1 – Pit 3 – Pit 2 - Exhibition Hall
Begin with Pit 1 as it's the largest and most stunning, offering a grand first impression. Spend ample time here observing the soldiers' intricate details and formations. Next, move on to Pit 3, where you will see the army's "headquarters." Then, proceed to Pit 2, where you will encounter a more diverse array of military figures. Finally, conclude your visit at the Exhibition Hall, where you can marvel at the history of the Terracotta Warriors and Horses.
Suggested Visiting Time: 2-3 hours
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: A must-visit to see and learn about the conservation of giant pandas.
Jinli Ancient Street: A lively area offering traditional Chinese goods, food, and tea houses.
Wuhou Memorial Temple: A peaceful memorial dedicated to the emperor of the Shu Kingdom, Liu Bei.
Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alley): Ancient streets blending traditional architecture with modern amenities.
Du Fu Thatched Cottage: A tranquil park and museum dedicated to the beloved poet, Du Fu.
Sichuan Cuisine Museum: An interactive museum focused on Sichuan cuisine.
People's Park: A popular local spot for relaxation and cultural activities.
Chunxi Road: The city's main shopping district.
Wenshu Monastery: Chengdu's largest and best-preserved Buddhist temple.
Tianfu Square: The city's largest public square, marked by a large Mao Zedong statue.
The top attractions to visit in Guilin downtown are:
Countryside Biking or Hiking : A journey through scenic rice paddies and traditional village, choosing the pace of either biking or hiking.
Yulong River: Ideal for tranquil bamboo rafting with picturesque views.
Moon Hill: A hikeable peak known for its moon-shaped arch and panoramic vistas.
West Street: Yangshuo's vibrant heart with a mix of Chinese and Western cultures, offering shopping and dining.
Rock Climbing: Yangshuo is considered one of the best rock climbing destinations in Asia, with numerous peaks suitable for all skill levels.
Caving: Yangshuo is home to several impressive karst caves, spelunkers can explore a labyrinth of tunnels, passages, and underground rivers, etc.
Impression Sanjie Liu: A nighttime riverside show highlighting local culture and music.
Cormorant Fishing: Experience a timeless tradition as skilled handlers command cormorants to fish in the dimming evening light.
Xingping Ancient Town: A historic town with charming streets and iconic river views.
Fuli Town: A gem steeped in tradition, famous for its preserved architecture, artisanal fan-making, and vibrant local markets.
Natural Attractions:
Three Gorges:
Qutang Gorge: Known for its narrow width and towering cliffs.
Wu Gorge: Famous for its mysterious, misty landscapes and the Twelve Peaks.
Xiling Gorge: The longest of the Three Gorges, known for its rapids and serene landscapes.
Lesser Three Gorges: A tributary of the Yangtze, offering a more intimate experience of China's natural beauty.
Historical and Cultural Sites:
Shibaozhai Temple: An architectual marvel, this 12-story wooden pagoda is situated on a steep cliff.
Fengdu Ghost City: A complex of shrines and temples dedicated to the afterlife, based on Chinese mythology.
White Emperor City: Known for its historical significance and stunning views of the Qutang Gorge.
Modern Marvels:
Three Gorges Dam: The world's largest hydroelectric dam, it's an engineering marvel and also offers a viewpoint for tourists.
Ship Locks and Ship Lift: These are part of the Three Gorges Dam and offer a fascinating look at how ships navigate the change in water levels.
Yangtze River Bridge at Yichang: An important infrastructural development connecting the two sides of the river.
Local Villages:
Shennong Stream Villages: You can visit traditional villages where you may observe local customs and traditional ways of life.
Tribe of the Three Gorges: You can gain an intimate look at the local culture and traditions of the communities that have lived along the river for generations.
Shanghai, one of China's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, offers a plethora of attractions for visitors to explore. The city is ever-evolving, with new attractions and experiences constantly emerging. Exploring Shanghai will give you a taste of China's past, present, and future all in one dynamic city. Here are some of the must-see sights and the top attractions in Shanghai:
1). The Bund - Historic waterfront promenade with stunning skyline views.
2). Nanjing Road - Bustling shopping street with a mix of modern and traditional shops.
3). Yu Garden - Classic Chinese garden with beautiful architecture and landscapes.
4). Oriental Pearl Tower - Iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city.
5). Jin Mao Tower - Skyscraper with observation decks showcasing Shanghai's skyline.
6). Shanghai Museum - Extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts.
7). Tianzifang - Artsy district with shops, galleries, and cafes in restored Shikumen houses.
8). Shanghai World Financial Center - Distinct tower with an observation deck on the 100th floor.
9). Xintiandi - Trendy area featuring a blend of historic Shikumen houses and modern establishments.
10). Zhujiajiao Water Town - Picturesque water town outside Shanghai, known for its canals and bridges.
1. The Yellow Mountain (Huangshan Mountain) itself: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for "Fiver Wonders": oddly-shaped pines, bizarre rock formations, sea of clouds, winter snow and hot springs.
2. Xidi and Hongcun Ancient Villages: These are two exceptionally well-preserved ancient villages, also UNESCO World Heritage Sites, known for their historic architecture and beautiful settings.
3. Bishan Village:A rural utopia to experience rural China in its authentic setting, away from the hustle and bustle of touristy spots.
4. Tunxi Old Street: Located in Huangshan City, it's a hub for antiques, local snacks, tea, ink stones, and Hui-style architectures.
5. Hu Kaiwen Ink Factory: Discover how traditional Chinese ink sticks, used in calligraphy and painting, are made.
6. Bao Family Garden: Situated in Yi County, it's a fine example of traditional Chinese garden design.
7. Huizhou Ancient City: Gives visitors a glimpse into the region's storied past and its rich architectural and cultural heritage.
8. Tachuan Village: Known for its autumn scenery, it's a great spot to witness the seasonal beauty.
9. Chengkan:A picturesque ancient village , renowned for its well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture and unique layout based on feng shui principles.
Guangzhou offers a range of attractions to explore, including the Canton Tower, Yuexiu Park, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Shamian Island, and the Pearl River Cruise. These are just a few highlights, and there are many more attractions in Guangzhou to explore based on your interests, such as museums, markets, and historical sites. Here are some popular ones:
1). Canton Tower: Enjoy stunning views of the city from this iconic tower, which features observation decks, restaurants, and thrilling experiences like the Sky Drop.
2). Yuexiu Park: Explore the largest park in downtown Guangzhou, home to historical sites like the Five Rams Sculpture, Zhenhai Tower, and the picturesque Ming Dynasty City Wall.
3). Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: Admire the exquisite architecture and ornate decorations of this ancestral hall, which now serves as the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, showcasing traditional crafts.
4). Shamian Island: Take a stroll through this charming island with its colonial-era buildings, tree-lined streets, and relaxing waterfront ambiance.
5). Guangzhou Opera House: Appreciate the modern architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid and attend a performance in this cultural landmark.
6). Pearl River Night Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Pearl River, witnessing the beautiful city skyline illuminated at night.
