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China — Top 10 Highlights

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Explore the essentials of China with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.

Current time in ChengdeTime difference: Chengde ↔ LondonTime difference: Chengde ↔ New YorkTime difference: Chengde ↔ Berlin

Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.

Legend
Why go — quick legend
  1. Great Wall of China — Experience a monumental feat of ancient engineering with …
  2. Forbidden City — Discover the rich history of Chinese imperial life and ar…
  3. Terracotta Army — Explore a vast underground army crafted to protect an emp…
  4. The Bund — Stroll along the iconic waterfront with stunning views of…
  5. Potala Palace — Marvel at the spiritual and architectural masterpiece in …
  6. Mogao Caves — Marvel at 1,000 years of intricate Buddhist art at a cult…
  7. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park — Explore surreal landscapes of sandstone pillars that insp…
  8. Lijiang Old Town — Wander through ancient streets filled with traditional ar…
  9. West Lake — Stroll around a serene lake surrounded by scenic beauty a…
  10. Summer Palace — Enjoy a leisurely day in grand imperial gardens and ancie…

China — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)

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# / NameWhy goSignificanceSinceCategory
Great Wall of China
Chengde · Hebei
Experience a monumental feat of ancient engineering with panoramic views.Vital for defense against invaders; symbolizes Chinese strength and ingenuity.7th c. BCCultural Heritage
Forbidden City
Dongcheng District · Beijing
Discover the rich history of Chinese imperial life and architecture.Center of Chinese political power for over 500 years, a symbol of imperial grandeur.1420Cultural Heritage
Terracotta Army
Xi'an · Shaanxi
Explore a vast underground army crafted to protect an emperor in the afterlife.Offers insights into ancient Chinese beliefs and Qin dynasty artistry.210 BCECultural Heritage
The Bund
Shanghai · Shanghai
Stroll along the iconic waterfront with stunning views of historic and modern architecture.Symbolizes Shanghai's colonial past and architectural fusion.— (natural)Outdoor
Potala Palace
Chengguan District · Tibet
Marvel at the spiritual and architectural masterpiece in the heart of Tibet.Former winter palace of Dalai Lamas; a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism.1649Cultural Heritage
Mogao Caves
Dunhuang City · Gansu
Marvel at 1,000 years of intricate Buddhist art at a cultural Silk Road crossroads.A standout example of Buddhist artistic excellence and historical significance on the Silk Road.4th c.Cultural Heritage
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Luoguta · Hunan
Explore surreal landscapes of sandstone pillars that inspired the 'Avatar' movie scenery.Recognized for its unique and breathtaking sandstone formations, vital for biodiversity.— (natural)Outdoor
Lijiang Old Town
Gucheng District · Yunnan
Wander through ancient streets filled with traditional architecture and vibrant Naxi culture.An exceptional example of a historical city with preserved Naxi culture and architecture.13th c.Cultural Heritage
West Lake
Xihu District · Zhejiang
Stroll around a serene lake surrounded by scenic beauty and historical structures.A symbol of classical beauty influencing Chinese and global landscape paintings and gardens.9th c.Cultural Heritage
Summer Palace
Haidian District · Beijing
Enjoy a leisurely day in grand imperial gardens and ancient scenic structures.A masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, reflecting imperial luxury and creativity.1750Cultural Heritage

“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.

Explore by province

Click a city to open its highlights page. Provinces appear only when at least one city exists.

Hidden gems · Insider picks

Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special

Guilin Rice Terraces

Longsheng County, Guangxi

Offers breathtaking views of layered rice terraces and insight into traditional Chinese agriculture.

Logistics: Accessible by a 2-3 hour drive from Guilin city.

Open in Maps

Updated: 2025-09

Bamei Village

Wenshan, Yunnan

A hidden village offering a step back in time, only accessible via a unique boat ride through karst caves.

Logistics: Reachable by local transport to Guangnan County, followed by a bamboo raft ride.

Open in Maps

Updated: 2025-09

Dongchuan Red Land

Dongchuan District, Yunnan

Spectacular, colorful landscapes resembling an earth palette, ideal for photography and remote exploration.

Logistics: Best accessed by car from Kunming, around 3-4 hours drive.

Open in Maps

Updated: 2025-09

When to go

BeijingApr–Jun, Sep–Oct: Enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds, optimal for city tours and cultural exploration.
ShanghaiMar–May: Comfortable spring temperatures make city walks and sightseeing more enjoyable.
Yunnan ProvinceSep–Nov: Moderate climate perfect for exploring diverse landscapes and vibrant local festivals.
Hainan IslandDec–Feb: Warm, sunny days ideal for beach activities without peak season prices.
HarbinJan–Feb: Experience the iconic Ice Festival with its stunning sculptures.

Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.

Safety: practical snapshot

Overall call

China is generally safe; stay aware and prepared.

  • Petty theft in crowded areas.
  • Traffic hazards on busy roads.
  • Street scams in tourist spots.
  • Seasonal air pollution in cities.
  • Outdoor hazards in rural regions.

How to travel it safely

  • Keep valuables close and secure.
  • Use licensed taxis or ride apps.
  • Be cautious of overly friendly strangers.
  • Carry a pollution mask in urban areas.
  • Check weather before outdoor activities.
  • Stay aware in crowded metro systems.

Emergency: Call local emergency services; for police, dial 110.

Safety conditions can change; always stay updated.

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