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As the third-largest country in the world with diverse geography and one of the oldest civilizations, China boasts an incredible array of tourist destinations. You could spend months—or even years—exploring its vast landscapes and still barely scratch the surface.
Two decades ago, most travelers to China focused on iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, or the bustling Bund in Shanghai. However, with the rapid development of China’s tourism industry, a wider variety of unique destinations has come into the spotlight. These include Chengdu, the hometown of the beloved giant panda; Guilin, known for its breathtaking karst landscapes; and the picturesque Yellow Mountain, among many others.
1. Beijing - No. 1 Tourist Destination and Gateway City in China
Top 10 China Destinations in 2027
Type: Culture and History
Highlights: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Hutong, Summer Palace
Recommended Trip Length: 2~4 days
Best Time of Visit: all year around
Recommended to Visit with: Xian, Shanghai, Harbin, Chengde, Datong
Beijing, the vibrant capital of China, stands as a dynamic blend of ancient heritage and modern innovation. As the nation’s political, cultural, and educational center, Beijing is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 20 million. It is a direct-controlled municipality, strategically located near Hebei Province and Tianjin City, and serves as a gateway to China’s past, present, and future.
With a history stretching back over 3,000 years, Beijing has played a pivotal role in shaping Chinese civilization. Its golden era was as the imperial capital during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, a period spanning six centuries that left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and traditions. Today, Beijing is a treasure trove of historical wonders, boasting eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the majestic Forbidden City, the awe-inspiring Great Wall, the serene Temple of Heaven, the enchanting Summer Palace, the ancient Ming Tombs, the iconic Central Axis, the prehistoric Zhoukoudian site, and the Grand Canal—a marvel of ancient engineering.
Beyond its historical significance, Beijing is a thriving transportation hub and one of the most popular international gateways into China. Its extensive air and rail networks connect seamlessly to every corner of the country, from the cosmopolitan cities of the east to the remote regions of Xinjiang and Tibet in the west. Travelers often begin their Chinese journey in Beijing, drawn by its rich cultural tapestry and its role as a springboard to explore the diverse landscapes and traditions of the nation.
Whether you’re wandering through its ancient hutongs, marveling at its imperial landmarks, or experiencing its vibrant culinary scene, Beijing offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart and soul of China.
2. Xian - Greatest Ancient China Capital for 13 Dynasties
Top 10 China Destinations in 2027
Type: Culture and History
Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient Great Wall, Shaanxi History Museum, Mount Huashan (30min’s train ride from Xian)
Recommended Trip Length: 2 days
Best Time of Visit: all year around
Recommended to Visit with: Beijing, Lhasa, Chengdu, Zhangjiajie
Xi’an is often referred to as the true heart of ancient China. Alongside Athens, Rome, and Cairo, it is celebrated as one of the Four Greatest Ancient Capitals in World History. Serving as the capital for 13 dynasties from the 11th century BC to the 10th century AD, Xi’an played a pivotal role in shaping Chinese civilization. In recognition of its profound historical and cultural significance, UNESCO designated Xi’an as a World Historical and Cultural City in 1981.
Xi’an is perhaps best known as the home of the legendary Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological marvel often hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” As the eastern starting point of the historic Silk Road, Xi’an was a vital hub for economic and cultural exchanges between China and the Western world, leaving an indelible mark on global history. Today, the city captivates visitors with its rich array of historical sites and cultural landmarks, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Chinese history and traditions.
Xi’an is an ideal destination to visit after exploring Beijing. The cities are well-connected by frequent high-speed bullet trains, making the journey smooth and efficient. The trip takes only about 5 hours, allowing you to transition seamlessly from Beijing’s imperial grandeur to Xi’an’s ancient splendor.
3. Shanghai - Contrast of Western and Eastern Cultures
Top 10 China Destinations in 2027
Type: Culture and Urban City
Highlights: The Bund, Yu Garden & Barzaar, Shanghai Museum, Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shanghai Disneyland
Recommended Trip Length: 2 days
Best Time of Visit: all year around
Recommended to Visit with: Beijing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Yangtze River, Huangshan
Beijing and Xi’an are unparalleled for delving into the rich history of ancient China, but Shanghai offers a completely different perspective—it’s the best place to experience the modern and cosmopolitan face of the country. Known as the “Pearl of the Orient” and the “Paris of the East,” Shanghai is China’s largest and most dynamic metropolis.
Shanghai is a city where Eastern and Western cultures converge in fascinating harmony. After the First Opium War in 1842, the city opened its port to international trade and soon became a hub for Western settlements. This period of colonial influence is still visible today in the architecture and atmosphere of The Bund, where grand European-style buildings line the waterfront. At the same time, Shanghai preserves its traditional Chinese culture, evident in its narrow alleys, the serene Yu Garden, and historic City God Temple. The city offers visitors a unique chance to experience the cultural legacy of both the East and the West in a single destination.
Shanghai is also celebrated for its breathtaking skyline, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Along the banks of the Huangpu River, some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers dominate the view, including the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings on the planet. To fully appreciate the city’s dazzling nightscape, take a stroll along the Bund, embark on a Huangpu River cruise, or head to the top of the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view that captures the city’s energy and innovation.
Beyond its urban allure, Shanghai serves as a gateway to other must-visit destinations that can be explored in just a day. Discover the elegant canals and classical gardens of Suzhou, the poetic charm of Hangzhou with its famous West Lake, or the stunning natural beauty of the Yellow Mountain. Shanghai’s strategic location and excellent transportation network make it the perfect base for expanding your journey in China.
4. Guilin - Most Beautiful Karst Landscape and Countryside in China
Top 10 China Destinations in 2027
Type: Nature, Ethnic Group, Countryside
Highlights: Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside, West Street, Longji Terrace
Recommended Trip Length: 2~4 days
Best Time of Visit: May to November
Recommended to Visit with: Hong Kong, Zhangjiajie, Chengdu
“Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven” — this well-known Chinese saying perfectly captures the breathtaking beauty of Guilin. Once you set foot in this enchanting region, you’ll understand why it has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Located in Guangxi Province in southern China, Guilin is renowned for its unique and stunning karst landscapes, featuring thousands of verdant limestone peaks rising dramatically from vast plains. The winding Li River, with its clear waters and charming riverside villages, adds to the region’s dreamlike quality, making it a must-visit destination.
The crown jewel of Guilin is Yangshuo, a haven for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Known for its picturesque countryside, Yangshuo offers a slower pace of life, where you can immerse yourself in serene landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities like bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, cycling through lush fields, or hiking up karst peaks for panoramic views. Many visitors find Yangshuo so captivating that they extend their stay for weeks, simply to soak in its peaceful, idyllic charm.
Beyond its natural beauty, Guilin is also home to a rich tapestry of ethnic cultures. The region is inhabited by a variety of ethnic minority groups, including the Zhuang, Yao, Miao, and Dong peoples. Many of these communities live in remote villages nestled among spectacular terraced rice fields, such as those found in the Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon’s Backbone). Visiting these villages offers not only breathtaking views but also a glimpse into traditional lifestyles, colorful festivals, and unique customs.
5. Zhangjiajie - Surreal Avatar World
Top 10 China Destinations in 2027
Type: National Park, Landscape
Highlights: Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie Grad Canyon Glasses Bridge
Recommended Trip Length: 2~5 days
Best Time of Visit: April to November
Recommended to Visit with: Xian, Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, Yangtze River, Fenghuang Ancient Town
About a decade ago, few people had heard of Zhangjiajie. Today, however, it has risen to international fame as one of China’s most iconic travel destinations, largely thanks to the blockbuster movie Avatar, which introduced the world to its otherworldly landscapes. The stone pillar Nan Tian Yi Zhu served as the inspiration for the film’s floating Hallelujah Mountain on Pandora, instantly capturing global attention.
Zhangjiajie is a breathtaking blend of natural wonders, combining the idyllic beauty of Guilin, the rugged charm of Yellow Mountain, the thrilling heights of Mount Hua, and the grandeur of Mount Tai. It’s often described as “an enlarged potted landscape,” “a miniature fairyland,” and “a natural labyrinth” for its unique blend of tranquility, wildness, mystery, and elegance. Recognizing its unparalleled natural beauty, UNESCO designated Zhangjiajie as a World Heritage Site in 1992.
Zhangjiajie’s top attractions include the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, and the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. The National Park is a haven for fans of Avatar who want to experience its ethereal scenery in person, featuring highlights like the Golden Whip Stream, Huangshi Village, Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain. Meanwhile, Tianmen Mountain offers thrilling adventures such as the glass skywalk, a cliff-hugging pathway that tests even the bravest visitors. The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is equally famous for its Glass Bridge, the world’s highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge, which provides heart-pounding views of the canyon below.
