25 Top Tourist Attractions in China You Shouldn't Miss!"

25 Hot Tourist Destinations in China You Shouldn't Miss! Make a list of the must-visit places and get ready to travel!
Traveloka TH
26 Feb 2025 - 21 min read

If you're looking for a destination with rich natural beauty, diverse seasons, stunning architecture, and unique unseen places that will leave you in awe, but haven't found the right one yet, we have the perfect suggestion! It's a country in Asia, not far from Thailand, where you don't need to fly all the way to Europe to experience beautiful destinations. Simply book a flight to China and embark on an unforgettable journey with Traveloka, making your trip to mainland China easy and stress-free, with amazing prices! Today, we will introduce some breathtaking tourist destinations in China that are waiting for you to discover their hidden beauty. Trust us, once you see it with your own eyes, it's more than just a 'wow' moment!

25 Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in China You Should Experience at Least Once

1. Blue Moon Valley

Blue Moon Valley

The first stop on our list of must-see destinations in China is the breathtaking Blue Moon Valley, located in Shangri-La, Yunnan Province. The locals believe this is a sacred mountain. Visitors can take a cable car up to the highest peak, with the first stop being the Blue Moon Valley, where you can take stunning photos with the backdrop of the snow-covered mountains of Shika. The valley is covered in snow year-round, making it a magical place to visit. Continuing to the summit, you'll be treated to panoramic views, making this one of the most spectacular travel spots in China!

Blue Moon Valley Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in China You Should Experience at Least Once

2. Crescent Moon Lake

Crescent Moon Lake

Next on our China travel list is the Crescent Lake, an oasis in the Gobi Desert, located in Dunhuang, Gansu Province. This crescent-shaped lake is surrounded by towering sand dunes, creating a stunning contrast between water and desert. Many might think that the heat here is unbearable, but this destination is a popular tourist spot with millions of visitors each year. What makes this place even more special is the wind currents that create towering sand ridges without covering the lake. Despite the harsh desert environment, the water in the lake remains clear and never dries up. It's a must-see, magical destination in China!

Crescent Moon Lake

3. Dagu Glacier National Park

Dagu Glacier National Park

For those seeking a stunning travel destination in China and dreaming of witnessing vast snow-capped mountains, you don't have to travel all the way to Europe. Just book a flight with China Airlines to Chengdu, and head to the Dagu Glacier National Park. With breathtaking views that resemble Switzerland, this place offers serene, crystal-clear waters, beautiful mountains, and clear skies. The area is also rich in Tibetan culture, earning it the nickname "Heavenly Park" for its heavenly beauty. It's a must-visit spot to experience China's natural splendor!

Dagu Glacier National Park

4. Danxia Landform

Danxia Landform

Just book a flight with China Airlines and you don't have to travel all the way to Peru to see stunning rainbow mountains! You can visit the Tianshan Geopark in Zhangye, located near the city of Zhangye in Gansu Province, China. This site is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the colorful mountains were formed millions of years ago due to tectonic movements. Over time, wind and rain eroded the landscape, creating these vibrant stripes of natural beauty. It's a must-visit and one of the top attractions in China!

Danxia Landform

5. Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve

Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve

Next, let's explore the last Shangri-La, the Yading Nature Reserve, also known as the "Snowy Plateau". It is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, magnificent views, and rich natural environment. Anyone who visits will feel it’s absolutely worth the effort, as you'll experience stunning landscapes, colorful forests, grasslands, lakes, and snow-capped mountains all in one place. For those planning to see the beauty of Yading, simply being mentally prepared is not enough – physical readiness is crucial. Yading is located at a high altitude, with less oxygen, and it requires a lot of walking. So, get ready to train your body for this adventure!

Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve

6. Guilin

Guilin

Tired of "Guilin" in Thailand? Time to fly to the real Guilin! As you may already know, Guilin is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and is one of the most renowned scenic cities in China. It's often referred to as a "paradise on earth" because of its stunning landscapes. With views like this, it’s definitely time to book a ticket with China Airlines and finally experience the beauty of Guilin in China!

Guilin

7. Hongcun Village

Hongcun Village

Not only does China have beautiful natural attractions, but its architecture and ancient villages are equally stunning. One such place is the ancient Hongchun Village, located at the foot of Huangshan Mountain. With a history spanning 900 years, this village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, registered in 2000. The village showcases architectural styles from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, featuring white brick and plaster as the main structure, with traditional Chinese tile roofs. It’s so beautiful, it feels like stepping right into a painting!

Hongcun Village

8. Inner Mongolia

Inner Mongolia

Get your batteries and cameras ready because we’re about to dive into more incredible places in China, non-stop! Next stop: the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (still part of China). This place is a paradise for photographers and anyone who loves capturing beautiful landscapes. If you're planning to visit, the summer months of June, July, or August are perfect. The weather is just right, with lush green grasslands and vibrant blooming canola flowers, making it an ideal time for stunning shots!

Inner Mongolia

9. Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou

Continue to marvel at the stunning natural beauty of Jiuzhaigou Valley, located in the northern part of Sichuan Province. This natural reserve is famous for its breathtaking lakes, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding landscape. If you visit in autumn, the golden leaves reflecting off the emerald waters create a mesmerizing view that’s sure to leave you in awe. Of course, this incredible site has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, further adding to its appeal as one of China’s must-see destinations!

Jiuzhaigou

10. Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake

How many times do we have to say "wow" to be satisfied with China's attractions? This time, let’s head over to Qinghai Lake, the largest saltwater lake in China, located in Qinghai Province. This destination offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty, with vast grasslands, deserts, and snow-capped mountains all in one place. If you’re lucky enough to visit in August or September, you might catch a glimpse of the stunning yellow rapeseed flowers blooming on the northern shore of the lake. Trust me, if you miss this, you’re definitely missing out!

Qinghai Lake

11. The Bund

The Bund

Let’s switch it up and take a look at the beauty of urban China, starting with Shanghai! One of the highlights here is The Bund, located along the Huangpu River, also known as Wai Tan in Chinese. This iconic spot is famous for its collection of old buildings with 19th-century European architectural styles. It’s also a popular filming location for many famous movies. If you’re a fan of the Chinese version of F4, this place will definitely look familiar. The Bund is so significant, it’s been dubbed “An International Exhibition of Architecture.”

The Bund

12. The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China

Another must-see landmark in China is the Great Wall of China! It’s time to fly out and experience the beauty of one of the Seven Wonders of the World—this immense 10,000-li wall. The Great Wall was built around 2,500 years ago and stretches across nine provinces. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The wall itself is shaped like a dragon, coiling over the mountains, and took nearly two thousand years to complete.

The Great Wall of China

13. Tianmen Mountains

Tianmen Mountains

One of the most famous valleys in the world, located in China, is the Tianmen Mountain. Situated in the city of Zhangjiajie, it is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is often referred to as the "Heaven's Door." This Chinese destination is perfect for those who appreciate stunning natural landscapes and seek an adrenaline rush. Visitors can walk along cliffside paths that offer panoramic views, explore the Tianmen Cave, and navigate the 99 bends of the winding road that hugs the mountainside.

Tianmen Mountains

14. Zhangjiajie Glass Floor Bridge

Zhangjiajie Glass Floor Bridge

Once you're in Zhangjiajie, you can't miss the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, one of the most thrilling attractions in China! This glass suspension bridge is the longest and highest of its kind in the world. Stretching 430 meters in length and standing 300 meters above the ground, the bridge connects two cliffs of the Avatar Mountains. If you're looking to snap some stunning photos and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding nature, this is the place to be! Don’t miss the chance to experience this exhilarating adventure!

Zhangjiajie Glass Floor Bridge

15. West Lake

West Lake

Another must-visit Chinese attraction is West Lake, also known as Hangzhou Lake or Xihu Lake, located in the ancient city of Hangzhou. Being an old city, the atmosphere around this lake exudes the charm of traditional China. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the iconic Leifeng Pagoda, the famous eight-sided pagoda of the city. Taking a boat ride and soaking in the beauty of the lake at sunset in this UNESCO World Heritage city is truly a serene and unforgettable experience!

 West Lake

16. Wulingyuan

Wulingyuan

Another breathtaking Chinese destination is Wulingyuan, located in Zhangjiajie. You might recognize Wulingyuan from its stunning limestone peaks, over 200 of them, that rise and fall dramatically, creating an otherworldly landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed natural park served as the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Visitors can explore the Jinbianxi stream, winding along the river to immerse themselves in nature, or take a ride on the Glass Dragon Elevator, the world's tallest and heaviest-load elevator, offering spectacular views from above.

Wulingyuan

17. Wulong National Park

Wulong National Park

One of the must-visit destinations in China before you die is Wulong. Located in the southeastern part of Chongqing, it is famously known as the "Heaven’s Three Bridges." This city sits amidst valleys formed by the collapse of the Earth’s crust, creating a vast sinkhole surrounded by towering mountains. Some parts of the area have rock arches that resemble bridges over the mountains, giving the place an ethereal feel, like a bridge to heaven. If you're looking for premium natural beauty, a trip to Wulong is a must—book your flight and visit China!

Wulong National Park

18. Xian City Wall

Xian City Wall

Apart from the Great Wall of China, the Xi'an City Wall is another must-visit destination in China! Xi'an is one of China’s oldest cities, and its city wall is the oldest and best-preserved fortification in the country. As a tourist, you can bike, stroll, or even take a golf cart to explore the beautiful views of the city from the top of the wall. The atmosphere is great, and it's a perfect place to relax and enjoy the surroundings!

Xian City Wall

19. Yuanyang Rice Terrace

Yuanyang Rice Terrace

Add a touch of cultural heritage to your journey by visiting the stunning city of Yuanyang. Famous for its breathtaking rice terraces, Yuanyang offers some of the most spectacular views in China. With a vast expanse of 80,000 acres of terraced fields across hills and slopes, the landscape is a true masterpiece. Whether you visit during the planting season or after harvest, you'll be treated to different, yet equally magnificent views of the rice terraces in all their splendor.

Yuanyang Rice Terrace

20. Fenghuang

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Another must-visit destination in China is the ancient city of Fenghuang, often referred to as the "Venice of China." This 300-year-old town has beautifully preserved its traditional architecture, making it a rare and charming example of ancient urban life. The city's charm is enhanced by canals that wind through the town, and one of the top activities for visitors is taking a boat ride to explore the picturesque streets and discover the rich history of this ancient gem.

Fenghuang

21. Harbin

Harbin

Travel to one of the coldest destinations in China, Harbin! Known for its freezing temperatures year-round, Harbin is famous for hosting the annual Ice and Snow Festival. During this event, visitors can marvel at incredible ice sculptures, enjoy music performances, and experience a variety of artistic displays. If you're someone who loves the cold and is up for a challenge, Harbin is a must-visit spot in China!

22. Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum

For those interested in art and culture, the Shanghai Museum is a must-visit on your list of Chinese attractions. This museum is dedicated to art and cultural history, showcasing a vast collection of ancient artifacts, rare artworks, and pieces that reflect China's rich history. You'll find calligraphy, woodwork, traditional Chinese craftsmanship, jade carvings, and much more. History and art enthusiasts should definitely make time to explore this fascinating cultural hub!

23. Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum

Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum

One of the most famous attractions in China is the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang (Qin Shi Huangdi) of the Qin Dynasty. It's believed to have been built between 246 and 208 BC. The tomb is the final resting place of the emperor, along with treasures and thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots. These sculptures were crafted to accompany the emperor in his journey to the afterlife, symbolizing his reign and the loyalty of his officials. This ancient site is an incredible testament to China's history and culture, making it a must-see destination.

24. The Yangtze Three Gorges

The Yangtze Three Gorges

Another must-visit destination in China is a river cruise through the scenic Sanxia Gorge (Three Gorges) along the Yangtze River. During the journey, you'll be surrounded by towering mountains covered in lush greenery on both sides, with a variety of flowers blooming along the way. It's a perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, making for a peaceful and unforgettable experience.

25. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Did you know that the number of giant pandas has been steadily decreasing, putting them at risk of extinction in the future? China has recognized the importance of this issue and has established panda conservation centers for research, breeding, and the preservation of these iconic animals. If you're a fan of pandas and looking for a place to visit in China to see them up close, I highly recommend visiting one of these centers. You'll be able to experience the charm and cuteness of these animals, and I'm sure you'll be left with unforgettable memories of their adorable antics!

Measures for Traveling to China

Once you're familiar with the popular tourist destinations in China, it's also essential to prepare for the trip by ensuring you have everything in order. Here’s what you need to know:

Required Documents for Traveling to China:

1.
For tourism, you must have documents such as a round-trip flight booking and hotel accommodation details.
2.
To apply for a visa, fill out the form and schedule an appointment for submission via the online platform at https://visaforchina.org. Afterward, print the appointment confirmation, the visa application form, your passport, and supporting documents, then submit them at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Bangkok on the scheduled date and time.
3.
For tourist visas, you can stay in China for up to 60 days from the date of arrival.

Key Information for Traveling to China:

Once you've arranged your flight, visa, and necessary documents, don’t forget to gather useful information about China to ensure your trip is enjoyable and memorable. Here’s a quick overview:

Country Information:

China is the most populous country in the world, with over 1.4 billion people. It is divided into 22 provinces (excluding Taiwan) and has two special administrative regions, Hong Kong and Macau. The capital city is Beijing. China is the third-largest country in the world, with an area of 9.6 million square kilometers, leading to a diverse range of landscapes. It shares borders with many countries, including Mongolia, Russia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, and India. The Himalayas and Tian Shan mountains provide natural borders in the west, while the eastern coast is near Korea and Japan.

Traveling to China:

Flight Duration: Approximately 3 hours 37 minutes from Thailand.
Departure Airport: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
Airlines: AirAsia, China Eastern Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Cathay Pacific, Air China, Thai Airways, Qatar Airways, Eva Air, Vietnam Airlines, Hainan Airlines, China Southern, and others.

Internal Travel within China:

Once you’ve booked your flight to China, you can travel around the country using various transportation options such as:

Airplanes
Trains
High-speed Rail
International Trains
Buses
Metro/Subway
Trams
Boats
Taxis
Bicycles
Car rental services

Languages Spoken: The primary language spoken in China is Mandarin Chinese.

Currency: The official currency is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the Chinese Yuan (CNY). As of October 2023, 1 Chinese Yuan is equivalent to 4.94 Thai Baht.

Time Zone: China follows a single time zone, China Standard Time (CST), which is UTC+8 hours.

Make sure you are prepared with this essential info to enjoy a smooth and unforgettable trip to China!

Seasonal Travel in China

Traveling in China offers a variety of experiences depending on the season, with each time of year offering unique attractions and activities. Let’s take a look at which season is best for visiting specific destinations.

Spring (March - May)

Weather: Temperatures begin to warm up, but it’s not too hot yet. This is the best time for pleasant weather.
Activities: Ideal for flower viewing, such as plum blossom festivals in various cities and cherry blossom viewing.
Recommended Destinations: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, or Harbin (for flower viewing).
Highlights: Mild and comfortable weather makes it a perfect time for sightseeing.

Summer (June - August)

Weather: Very hot, especially in central and southern China, such as Shanghai and Guangzhou.
Activities: Perfect for beach tourism, such as visiting Hainan's beaches, or enjoying light shows in Luoyang.
Recommended Destinations: Guilin and Mount Zhushan for nature lovers.
Highlights: Enjoy beach resorts and the beautiful nature.

Autumn (September - November)

Weather: The most pleasant weather of the year, with cool and comfortable temperatures.
Activities: Ideal for enjoying autumn foliage and hiking, or experiencing cool weather in cities like Beijing or Changchun.
Recommended Destinations: Ancient city of Xi’an, Sanqi National Park.
Highlights: Crisp air and stunning natural landscapes with fall colors.

Winter (December - February)

Weather: Very cold in northern China, especially in Harbin, where the famous Snow Festival takes place.
Activities: Ideal for skiing in snowy mountains or visiting Harbin’s ice sculpture festival.
Recommended Destinations: Harbin (for the Snow Festival) and Nanjing.
Highlights: Enjoy ice and snow art festivals in winter.

Summary of Seasonal Travel in China

Spring (March - May): Flower viewing and mild weather.
Summer (June - August): Beach tourism or nature trips in cooler areas.
Autumn (September - November): Autumn foliage and pleasant temperatures.
Winter (December - February): Snow festivals and skiing.

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