When we hear about China, we imagine that big country in Asia. It’s so big and a challenge to explore. The journey there will be filled with awe. You’ll be amazed by its fascinating history. In this article, you’ll discover the top cities to visit in China and why each one deserves a spot on your itinerary!
If you’re traveling as a remote worker or returning from abroad, you might be glad to know there’s an OFW Lounge at NAIA Terminal 3. It’s a great spot to relax before heading off. Digital nomads can also prep for the journey using freelancer’s tools and resources. These help you stay connected and productive while exploring China.
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There are about 55 World Heritage Sites in China. Fourteen are natural, 37 are cultural, and 4 are both. China is also one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world. Most of us only know Beijing, Shanghai, the Great Wall, and Pandas. But China has a lot more to offer.
China, or the People’s Republic of China (PRC), is the world’s most populous country. It is also the third-largest country by area. It includes 22 provinces, 5 regions, 4 DCM, and 2 special administrative regions. China also claims Taiwan as its 23rd province. However, Taiwan identifies as the Republic of China, not the PRC.
If you’re planning to visit this intriguing country, you’re in the right place. We’ll show you the 15 best cities to visit in China. You’ll also learn about popular tourist attractions. This guide will help with your China itinerary. So, prepare your pen and paper and read this list:
North China
Beijing
Beijing is the capital of China. It’s filled with modern architecture and long, marvelous history. Start with the pride of the country – the Great Wall of China. Try the famous Peking Duck at a local restaurant. Visit the 72-hectare Forbidden City. It was home to emperors for almost 500 years.
Relax at the Summer Palace or the Temple of Heaven. Don’t forget your portable umbrella, especially in summer. For modern sights, check out CCTV Headquarters or Taikoo Li.
North West China
Dunhuang
Dunhuang is a unique city on the edge of the Gobi Desert. Tour the Mogao Caves, also called the Thousand Buddha Grottoes. Stop by Crescent Lake, an oasis in the desert. Ride camels along the Silk Road. Visit Yumenguan Pass or Yangguan Pass. The views here are breathtaking.
Xi’an
Xi’an is a must-visit. It’s known as an ancient capital and was home to four dynasties. Visit Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum. You’ll see the Terracotta Warriors – a life-sized army in sculpture form!
Walk the Xi’an City Wall and visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Explore the Muslim Quarter for food and souvenirs. Bike around the city walls and unwind at Huaqing Pool. Try spicy Sichuan food and dim sum.
East China
Shanghai
Shanghai is the biggest city in the PRC. It’s a financial hub with the world’s busiest port. Many “Made in China” products ship from here. Walk along The Bund by day or night.
See the skyline from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower or Shanghai Tower. Visit Yu Garden for peace and greenery. Enjoy hot pot or dim sum. Don’t miss Shanghai Disney Resort.
Hangzhou
Hangzhou is known for inspiring poets. There’s a famous saying: “Above there is heaven, below there are Hangzhou and Suzhou.” West Lake is the city’s top site. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Lingyin Temple and Leifeng Pagoda. Ride a boat on the Grand Canal. In winter, visit Mount Daming for skiing. Bring a winter jacket.
Huangshan
Huangshan means “Yellow Mountain.” It’s one of the most beautiful places in China. Explore Xidi and Hongcun Villages. They are full of cultural landmarks. Hike up Lianhua Peak and place a wish-lock. Capture the breathtaking landscapes on camera.
Suzhou
Suzhou is known as the “Venice of China.” It has canals and classic gardens. Visit the Humble Administrator Garden and Lion Grove. These are UNESCO sites. Ride a boat on Pingjiang Road or Shantang Street. Hike to Tianping Mountain. Enjoy Suzhou’s serene scenery.
Nanjing
Nanjing was once a capital for many dynasties. Visit Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. Walk along the Qinhuai River. Enjoy the night view near the Confucius Temple. Explore the Nanjing City Wall and Presidential Palace. It’s perfect for history lovers.
South Central China
Guilin
Guilin has stunning limestone hills. Take a Li River cruise to see Elephant Trunk Hill. Try Guilin rice noodles, a local favorite. Visit Reed Flute Cave and Longji Rice Terraces. Walk around Seven Star Park or Yangshuo Park. Always carry travel health insurance.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is an autonomous region. It allows visa-free entry for 145 countries. It’s a vibrant city with skyscrapers and cultural landmarks. Watch the Symphony of Lights at Victoria Harbour. View the city from Victoria Peak. Visit Lantau Island and Hong Kong Disneyland. Try dim sum at a local teahouse. Use Yesim for eSIM access (Code: KATRIN8414).
Macau
Macau is another Special Administrative Region. It offers visa-free entry to 66 countries. Known as Asia’s Las Vegas, it has many casinos like Venetian Macao. Visit the Historic Centre of Macau. See the Ruins of St. Paul’s and A-Ma Temple. Enjoy views from Macau Tower. Try the local hot pot dishes.
Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie offers breathtaking views. Visit the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Walk the famous Glass Bridge. These sandstone peaks inspired the movie Avatar. Ride the world’s longest cable car to Tianmen Mountain. Relax at Baofeng Lake or explore Huanglong Cave. Wear good trail shoes.
South-West China
Chengdu
Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan. It’s perfect for panda lovers. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Want more? Go to Dujiangyan Panda Base. While there, stop by the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Taste spicy Sichuan food and hot pot. Explore Mount Qingcheng and Du Fu Thatched Cottage.
Lhasa
Lhasa means “Place of the Gods.” It’s the capital of Tibet. Tour the Potala Palace and Norbulingka. Hike Chagpori, also called the Iron Mountain. Visit Jokhang Temple and Sera Monastery.
Lijiang
Lijiang is in Yunnan Province. See the Old Town of Lijiang, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Hike to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Visit Black Dragon Pool and Lugu Lake. Nearby, trek the Tiger Leaping Gorge. See Baishu Terrace with its flowing spring water.
Visiting China Soon?
It’s hard to choose where to start. China is huge and full of wonders. If possible, spend at least a month here. One week is not enough. Each city has its own charm, culture, and natural beauty.
China allows visa-free stays for citizens of 17 countries. These range from 15 to 90 days. Most travelers will need a Chinese Visa. If you’re Filipino, check out my Chinese Tourist Visa Guide. Visa rules are different for Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Some regions also allow group visas.
We hope this guide helps you plan. Enjoy your trip to China!
FAQ
Shanghai is the most visited city in China. Tourists love its skyscrapers, history, food, and shopping.
Chinese tourists often visit Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Hangzhou. Abroad, they go to Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.
Yes, Chongqing is bigger in size. It covers over 80,000 square kilometers. New York City covers about 780 square kilometers.