Top 10 tourist attractions in China

China, a land of profound history and diverse landscapes, offers a tapestry of rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Spanning over 9.6 million square kilometres, it is the world’s third-largest country by area and one of the oldest civilizations, with a recorded history of over 5,000 years. This vast nation is a confluence of ancient traditions and modern advancements, making it an endlessly fascinating destination for travellers from all corners of the globe.

Tourism in China has seen exponential growth, attracting millions of visitors each year drawn to its historical sites, natural beauty, and bustling urban centers. The country’s attractions range from the majestic Great Wall winding across northern China to the tranquil landscapes of Guilin, from the modern skyline of Shanghai to the ancient terracotta warriors of Xi’an. Each site not only showcases China’s extensive history but also reflects a piece of its soul, offering insights into the past and present of this dynamic nation.

The Great Wall of China, an awe-inspiring feat of ancient defensive architecture, stretches over 13,000 miles, meandering across northern China’s rugged terrain. Built and rebuilt between the 5th century BC and the 16th century to protect the Chinese states and empires against raids and invasions from various nomadic groups, the Wall is a monumental testament to the strength and perseverance of the Chinese people.

This iconic structure, often mythologized as visible from space, consists of numerous walls and fortifications, many running parallel to each other. Millions of people, including dignitaries and world leaders, have visited the most well-known area, Badaling, which is close to Beijing. However, the Wall’s true majesty is best appreciated in its less frequented areas, like Mutianyu or Jinshanling, where visitors can experience its serenity and grandeur amidst scenic landscapes.

Despite common misconceptions, the Great Wall was not a single, continuous wall but a collection of fortifications made of stone, brick, tamped earth, wood, and other materials. Its purpose evolved over centuries, serving as border control, enabling the imposition of duties on goods transported along the Silk Road, regulating or encouraging trade, and controlling immigration and emigration.

Today, the Great Wall is not only a symbol of China’s historical resilience but also a testament to human ingenuity. It attracts scholars, history enthusiasts, and tourists alike, all eager to walk along its storied paths. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds a special place in the collective imagination, representing the enduring strength and spirit of Chinese civilization.

Forbidden City, Beijing

The Forbidden City in Beijing, a majestic palace complex in the heart of China’s capital, stands as a pinnacle of traditional Chinese architecture and a testament to the nation’s imperial history. Constructed from 1406 to 1420 during the reign of the Ming Dynasty’s Yongle Emperor, this sprawling complex served as the home of emperors and their households, as well as the ceremonial and political centre of Chinese government for nearly 500 years.

Encompassing 180 acres and surrounded by a 52-metre-wide moat, the Forbidden City is a marvel of ancient Chinese architecture. Its name derives from the fact that access to the complex was forbidden to the common people. The complex consists of 980 surviving buildings with 8,704 rooms, all intricately designed with a blend of wooden structures, vast courtyards, and beautifully decorated interiors. The layout is based on traditional Chinese cosmology and symbolism; the emperor, considered the Son of Heaven, resided at the centre of the universe, thus his palace was at the centre of the capital.

The Forbidden City is divided into two parts: the outer court, used for ceremonial purposes, and the inner court, where the emperor and his family lived. The Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest hall within the complex, is a key highlight and is used for significant events like coronations and imperial weddings.

Now known as the Palace Museum, the Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds numerous cultural artefacts and artworks, making it a significant cultural and historical site. Due to its grandeur and historical significance, it continues to draw millions of visitors each year and provides a window into the opulent lifestyle of the Chinese emperors and their courts.

The Terracotta Army, a remarkable archaeological discovery, lies in the city of Xi’an in Shaanxi Province, China. Unearthed in 1974 by local farmers, it is part of an elaborate mausoleum created to accompany the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. This vast army of terracotta soldiers and horses, buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE, represents one of the most significant finds of the 20th century.

This extraordinary collection, a part of the larger necropolis that encompasses the Emperor’s tomb, consists of over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses—each figure uniquely crafted with intricate details, distinct facial expressions, and varied postures. The soldiers are arrayed in battle formation, ready to defend their sovereign in the afterlife. This reflects the ancient Chinese belief in an afterlife where the deceased would continue to live in a manner similar to their earthly life.

The Terracotta Army also provides invaluable insight into the military history and weaponry of the time. The figures were originally painted, and although much of the colouring has faded over time, they still offer a glimpse into the vibrant aesthetics of the era. The site includes a museum and several pits open to the public, where visitors can appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of the army.

Archaeologists believe that the construction of the mausoleum started when the Emperor ascended the throne and involved hundreds of thousands of workers. The Terracotta Army not only symbolises the might of the Qin Dynasty but also showcases the advanced artistic and technological capabilities of ancient China, making it a significant cultural and historical treasure.

The Li River and the Guilin landscape, located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, present one of the most sublime natural scenes in the world. Renowned for its dramatic karst mountains, serene waters, and lush vegetation, this area has inspired poets and painters for centuries and remains a magnet for tourists and nature lovers.

The Li River, stretching over 80 kilometres from Guilin to Yangshuo, meanders gracefully through a remarkable landscape of limestone karst hills, creating a picturesque tableau that seems straight out of a traditional Chinese painting. The journey along the river is a visual feast, with each bend offering a unique and stunning vista. The peaks, with names like Elephant Trunk Hill and Nine Horses Painted Hill, rise sharply from the ground, their reflections shimmering in the clear river waters, creating an ethereal and almost surreal experience.

Apart from the visual spectacle, the region is rich in biodiversity and home to a variety of flora and fauna. The surrounding countryside is dotted with quaint villages, rice paddies, and bamboo groves, offering a glimpse into rural Chinese life that has remained relatively unchanged for centuries.

The Guilin landscape, particularly the Li River, holds a special place in Chinese culture. It embodies the traditional Chinese aesthetic of harmony between humanity and nature, often captured in the country’s art and literature. This area not only offers an escape to a tranquil and timeless world but also allows for a deeper appreciation of China’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. For any traveller seeking to experience the quintessence of China’s natural landscapes, a visit to the Li River and Guilin is an absolute must.

Victoria Harbour, set against the iconic skyline of Hong Kong, is not just a major port but a symbol of the city’s dynamism and a junction where Eastern and Western influences beautifully converge. Nestled between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, this natural deep-water harbour is famed for its panoramic views and bustling activity, representing the heart and soul of Hong Kong.

The harbour’s strategic location on the South China Sea was instrumental in establishing Hong Kong as a British colony and later as a major international trading enter. Today, it remains a vital aspect of Hong Kong’s role as a global financial hub. The harbour is lined with architectural marvels, from towering skyscrapers to historic buildings, epitomising Hong Kong’s rapid development and its status as a world city.

One of Victoria Harbour’s most breathtaking experiences is the Symphony of Lights, a stunning multimedia show involving more than 40 buildings on both sides of the arbor. This nightly spectacle creates an enchanting atmosphere, with lasers, searchlights, and LED screens synchronised to music and narration, celebrating the energy, spirit, and diversity of Hong Kong.

The Star Ferry, a historic mode of transportation across the harbour since the 1880s, offers another unique perspective. The short yet memorable ride provides spectacular views of Hong Kong’s skyline and is an essential experience for visitors and locals alike.

Victoria Harbour is more than a scenic spot; it is a bustling, living entity that reflects the vibrant culture and history of Hong Kong. The harbour is an enduring symbol of Hong Kong’s rich history and modern allure, whether seen during the day as ferries weave between junks and liners or at night when the skyline glitters against the ominous waters.

The Potala Palace, perched atop Marpo Ri Hill in the heart of Lhasa, Tibet, is a monumental landmark that epitomises Tibetan architecture and is a spiritual beacon for Tibetan Buddhism. This grand edifice, originally built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo and later expanded in the 17th century by the Fifth Dalai Lama, served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959.

Encompassing over 1,000 rooms across 13 stories, the palace stands about 117 metres high, a commanding presence in the Lhasa Valley. Its walls, painted in white and red and topped with gilded roofs, symbolise peace, compassion, and the Buddhist doctrine. Inside, the Potala Palace is a treasure trove of Tibetan culture and history, housing thousands of rooms filled with intricate murals, richly adorned stupas, and an immense collection of Buddhist statues, scriptures, and thangkas.

The Red Palace within the complex is devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer and contains the tombs of several Dalai Lama, while the White Palace served administrative functions. The intricate layout of the palace, with its vast array of chapels, libraries, and living quarters, reflects the unique blend of religious and secular Tibetan life.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Potala Palace is not only a marvel of architectural ingenuity but also a symbol of Tibetan resilience and spirituality. Its presence dominates the landscape and continues to draw pilgrims and tourists from around the world, serving as a poignant reminder of Tibet’s rich heritage and its religious significance.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in the Hunan province of China, is a prime example of the country’s extraordinary natural beauty. Renowned for its towering sandstone pillars, deep ravines, and pristine forests, this park is a part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park gained international fame for inspiring the Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s film “Avatar.”

The most striking feature of Zhangjiajie is its more than 3,000 quartzite sandstone pillars, some reaching over 200 metres in height. These formations, created through years of physical erosion, are often shrouded in mist, adding to their mystique and ethereal appearance. The landscape is a dramatic mix of peaks, valleys, streams, and waterfalls, set amidst lush greenery that provides a habitat for diverse wildlife.

One of the park’s most famous landmarks is the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, previously known as the Southern Sky Column. This towering pillar became a symbol of Zhangjiajie’s unique geological structures. The park also features the world’s longest and highest glass bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain.

Visitors can explore the park’s beauty through its extensive network of trails and the world’s longest outdoor escalator system. The Bailong Elevator, another marvel, transports visitors up the cliff face for stunning panoramic views.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is not just a natural wonder but also a cultural treasure, home to the Tujia, Miao, and Bai ethnic groups, who add rich cultural diversity to the area. Its otherworldly scenery, ecological significance, and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

The Giant Panda Sanctuaries in Sichuan Province, China, are pivotal in the global efforts to conserve the endangered giant panda, an iconic symbol of wildlife conservation. Spread across several reserves, including Wolong, Mt. Siguniang, and the Jiajin Mountains, these sanctuaries collectively form one of the most significant panda habitats in the world. They are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasising their importance in biodiversity conservation.

Covering an area of over 9,000 square kilometres, these sanctuaries are nestled in the lush montane forests of the Qionglai and Jiajin Mountains. The region’s high altitude, dense bamboo forests, and cool climate provide an ideal habitat for the giant panda. These sanctuaries are home to more than 30% of the world’s wild panda population, making them crucial for the species’ survival.

In addition to pandas, the sanctuaries boast a rich biodiversity, supporting a variety of other endangered species like the red panda, snow leopard, and clouded leopard. The area is characterised by a complex ecosystem with diverse flora and fauna, contributing significantly to the conservation of mountain biodiversity in China.

The Giant Panda Sanctuaries are not only conservation areas but also centres for research and education. They play a vital role in studying panda behaviour, breeding, and health, contributing valuable insights into wildlife conservation and management.

Visitors to these sanctuaries can witness pandas in their natural habitat, an experience that not only raises awareness about conservation efforts but also allows for a deeper connection with these majestic creatures. The sanctuaries represent a successful blend of conservation, research, and ecotourism, highlighting the importance of preserving natural habitats for the future of endangered species.

The Summer Palace in Beijing, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, is an exquisite cultural treasure that blends the natural landscape with artificial features to create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing experience. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it exemplifies the philosophy and practice of Chinese garden design, which seeks to recreate natural landscapes in miniature.

Originally built in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty, the Summer Palace served as a royal retreat for emperors seeking respite from the Forbidden City. The vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces in this 2.9-square-kilometre complex is centred around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. It represents the culmination of centuries-old Chinese garden art, incorporating the principles of balance and harmony between humans and nature.

The design of the Summer Palace is based on various legends, poetry, and classical works of literature, with each structure and feature bearing a significant cultural meaning. The Long Corridor, a covered walkway adorned with thousands of paintings, the Marble Boat, and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge are some of the notable structures that blend effortlessly with the natural scenery.

The Second Opium War in the 19th century destroyed the Summer Palace, but Empress Dowager Cixi rebuilt it in 1888. Today, it stands as a testament to China’s artistic and architectural ingenuity, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the imperial family and the traditional Chinese art of landscape gardening.

This historical site is not just a tourist attraction but a cultural sanctuary where visitors can experience the tranquilly and beauty of classical Chinese gardens while reflecting on the profound cultural and historical significance it holds in the heart of modern Beijing.

The Bund, a historic waterfront area in central Shanghai, serves as a vivid emblem of the city’s colonial past and its transformation into a global financial hub. Spanning the western bank of the Huangpu River, this promenade is lined with a striking array of architectural styles, ranging from Art Deco to Neoclassical, which stand as a testament to Shanghai’s international influences and rapid development in the early 20th century.

Once the city’s financial and commercial centre during the British concession period, the buildings along the Bund, such as the HSBC Building and the Customs House, reflect a fusion of Western and Eastern designs. These historical edifices, often referred to as the “museum of buildings,” showcase Shanghai’s unique heritage and cosmopolitan culture.

The Bund has undergone significant revitalization, transforming it into a vibrant public space that offers panoramic views of both the historical architecture and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong’s Lujiazui district across the river. This contrast between the old and the new is symbolic of Shanghai’s evolution and its status as a global city.

Today, the Bund is more than just a testament to Shanghai’s past; it is a bustling, dynamic area, popular for its luxurious boutiques, upscale restaurants, and trendy bars. At night, the area comes alive with its illuminated buildings and the dazzling city lights reflecting on the river, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

The Bund not only offers a journey through Shanghai’s architectural history but also provides a unique vantage point to witness the city’s rapid modernization and its aspirations for the future.