In this guide we talk about the best places to visit in China for tourists while traveling throughout this wonderful country. This really is the ultimate guide and resource as it includes popular tour destinations from many different cities throughout China. With well over 600 cities, there is a never ending supply of places to explore during your adventures. Since we can’t cover all of them in one post, we’ve selected the top attractions in China most people enjoy, and a few of the lesser known ones as well.

See Also >> Book a tour of China

Best Places To Visit In Beijing

First on the list is none other than the infamous city of Beijing. As the capital of China it’s probably the most visited city in all of China for travelers to see. It’s the second largest city in China based on population size. If you are flying to China from overseas, more than likely this is the first city you will arrive once you land in the Beijing Capital International Airport.

Beijing has some of the oldest history in the world which dates back as far as 3,000 years old. It’s the center of the nations political and cultural hub. With such a rich history, it’s no wonder why there are so many great tour sites to see and explore.

Top Attractions in Beijing:

#1 – Great Wall Of China

Visiting the Great Wall Of China is an absolute must do for any travel seeker adventuring in China. It’s one of the 7th wonders of the world and you sure don’t want to miss it. The wall stretches at a staggering 21,196 kilometers (5,000 miles) long, which seems to be never-ending.

Fun fact: If you wanted to walk the whole length of the wall from end to end, it would take 18 months to do so. The views from this historic landmark are worth seeing for anyone and you will be glad to check this one off your China bucket list.

Best length for visiting: 3 hours

#2 – Forbidden City: The Palace Museum

Another very famous destination in Beijing is Forbidden city. Here you can learn about the Chinese culture and it’s Emperors of the 15-18th century Ming and Qing dynasty ages. The name “Forbidden” comes from the fact that regular people during the time were forbidden from approaching the palace without facing the chance of execution.

This massive palace yields 8,703 total rooms covering an area the size of 100 football fields. You could spend the whole day and not have a chance to see it all. We highly recommend you add this one to your list of places to visit in China. You won’t regret.

Best length for visiting: 2-4 hours

#3 – Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen square is the largest public square in the world. People come from all across the globe to visit here and have a chance to get their photo taken on the square. The historic significance of this place makes it a great tour spot. This is where Chairman Mao made the announcement for establishing the People’s Republic of China back in 1949. His photo displayed on the square is very famous to see.

The vast size of this square has a mass area of 440,000 square meters and could hold more than 1 million people. Tiananmen tower was built in 1417 and used as a place for officials to issue the emperor’s proclamation.

Best length for visiting: 1 hour

#4 – Summer Palace

Summer palace is another popular attraction in Beijing that’s a must see. Often regarded as the best royal garden in China. Back in the Qing Dynasty, it was used as a private garden for Royal families. Now however, it’s open to the public as a part and tourist destination. If you would like to see traditional architecture buildings of gardening used in historic China, then be sure to make time to visit Summer palace.

Best length for visiting: 3 hours

#5 – Temple Of Heaven

This beautiful park sits on a vast area of over 270 acres which has the largest temple for religious worshiping in China. Used in the Ming and Qing dynasty days for praying. Now you can come here and see all the great architecture design from this historic site. Built in the year 1420, near the southeaster part of central Beijing. In 1998 it was designated as a world heritage site.

Once you step inside the Hall of Prayer, you will be blown away by it’s structure and design. Within the park you can find playgrounds, exercise, and even a game area. Great for adults and children to play.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#6 – Great Wall Of Badaling

Another historic spot worth checking out in Beijing. The Great Wall Of Badaling is the most visited part of the entire Great Wall Of China. Regarded as the best section of the entire wall to see. This was the most preserved section of the Great Wall. Although there are many different sections worth seeing, Badaling is the most recommended of them all.

The best part of Badaling is it shows you how the Great Wall Of China would have actually looked back in it’s original condition. Located in Yanqing County about 70 Kilometers north of Beijing. Make sure you add this one on your list of best places to visit in China. It’s worth the experience.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#7 – Ming Dynasty Tombs

If you have time during your travel in Beijing, you will want to stop by and see the historic site of the Ming Dynasty tombs. Here is the final resting graves of 13 Ming emperors. A great spot to pay respects to the history of China and it’s most prominent emperors. This tomb is around 30 Kilometers northwest of Beijing and is generally toured together while visiting the Great Wall Of China.

The 13 tombs of the Ming Dynasty will make for a interesting half a day or so trip. The Dingling Tomb is is the most frequently visited section of all the other tombs.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#8 – Beihai Park

Beihai park is a public park and China’s most protected imperial garden. Located in the northwester part of Imperial city Beijing. This scenic park has a history of more than 1,000 years and will be worth seeing during your trip. The best time to visit Beihai park is in the morning. Both summer and winter months are worth checking out. In the winter, the whole park becomes a one big skating rink. In the spring and summer months, it’s filled with Beautiful flowers and scenery next to Beihai Lake.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#9 – Lama Temple

The Lama Temple in Beijing is another religious and historic site museum you’ll want to see. This is a temple of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. A lot o the art on the temple of from both Han Chinese and Tibetan style. Here you can find many beautiful pavilions. One of the main attractions is a large 54 foot tall Buddha which was carved from a piece of Tibetan sandalwood.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#10 – Confucius Temple

If you are familiar with the Chinese teacher Confucius, then you may want to take a tour of Confucius Temple in Beijing. In this museum you can learn more about Confucius’s life, his philosophies, and legacy. This temple was built back in the year 1302 used by officials who would pay their respect to Confucius.

Another historic site on the list of best places to visit in Beijing. This is one of the more relaxing places to visit in Beijing as it’s generally less crowded than other tourist spots in the city.

Best length for visiting: 1 hour

See Also >> Book a tour of Beijing

Best Places To Visit In Shanghai

Next up on the list of best places to visit in China Shanghai, China’s largest city based on population. This fast growing city is the center of China’s largest economic development. A true global financial hub. Chinese people from all over the country move to Shanghai more and more every year. With a population of over 26 million, it seems to never stop growing. Shanghai is not only the most modern city in China, but one of the most modern cities in the entire world.

There are plenty of things to do in Shanghai, and many tourists love to visit. From tall skyscrapers, to museums, you won’t be bored spending some time here. The best time of the year to visit Shanghai is during the spring and summer months. Winters can be a little cold and windy.

Top Attractions In Shanghai:

#1 – The Bund

The bund in Shanghai is first on the list of things to do. This is the true landmark of the city and where you can get the best view possible of Shanghai. You can walk along the Huangpu River which will give you a great view of the modern skyscrapers. Make sure you bring your camera as getting a photo on the Bund in front of the Shanghai tower is a favorite among tourists. You’ll want to stick around for night time to catch a glimpse of how the skyscrapers light up the sky. Quite amazing to see.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#2 – Yu Garden

Yuyuan Garden is a Chinese garden with classical architecture, beautiful scenery, and artistic layout. It was a private garden used by the Pan family during the Ming Dynasty. With it’s unique design, you can feel relaxed as you tour across and see the magnificent sculptures and carvings the garden has to offer.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#3 – Oriental Pearl TV Tower

This famous tower is well recognized by many across the globe who see or hear about Shanghai. The unique design and structure stands 468 meters tall. It’s fun to visit the top observation deck of the tower and walk on the glass bottom to feel a real rush. Located in Pudong Park surrounded by the Yangpu and Nanpu Bridges. A great photo opportunity you won’t want to miss. Thousands of people are attracted to this spectacular tower every single month. The tower lights up with bright LED lights at night making for a fantastic view.

Best length for visiting: 1 hour

#4 – Nanjing Road

If you are interested in shopping, Nanjing Road is where you’ll want to visit while in Shanghai. This massive shopping street is one of the most busiest streets for shopping in the entire world. Here you can find stores and retails from all across the globe. Located in the city center of Shanghai, it extends from The Bund all the way west to People’s square. Dating back to 1845, Nanjing Road has a long history, formally known as Park Lane.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#5 – Shanghai World Financial Center

If you want to see what the fifth tallest building in the world looks like, then make sure you take a visit to Shanghai World Financial Center. This significant landmark in Shanghai has the highest observation deck in the world, standing 492 meters tall. From the top you can get a great view of the entire city. This super tall skyscraper is located in Pudong district of Shanghai. It rivals any tower you would see in New York city. Make sure to open some time in your schedule to come see here as it’s one of the best places to visit in Shanghai.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#6 – Jin Mao Tower

Jin Mao Tower, located in Lujiazui Finance and Trade Zone in Pudong, is another one of the tallest buildings in the world worth checking out. Standing 88 stories tall, and 420 meters high, this skyscraper in Shanghai is a great to see the entire city standing from it’s observation deck at the top. Inside you can enjoy many restaurants and hotels such as the Grand Hyatt. Be sure to visit Jin Mao Tower in Shanghai if you want to experience all of what the city has to offer for tourists.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#7 – Shanghai Museum

To get a full cultural experience during your tour, visit the Shanghai museum. This is by far the largest museum in all of China with over 120,000 cultural relics from more than 5,000 years ago up to the Qing Dynasty. Here you can find tons of ancient Chinese art, calligraphy work, and paintings. It’s China’s first world class modern museum. Lots of things to see here so prepare some time in your schedule to see it all. Located on the People’s Square in Huangpu district of Shanghai.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#8 – Jade Buddha Temple

The Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai is a famous religious site with great architectural buildings. It’s quite rare to see such a temple in the center of a great city like Shanghai. This Buddhist temple, founded in 1882, draws from Pure Land and Chan traditions of Mahayana Buddhism. Here you can see two rate Jade Buddhist statues which are carved with whole white jade. Enjoy a peaceful time in this relaxing environment. A nice way to experience something different on your tour of Shanghai.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#9 – Shanghai Disney Resort

If you bring kids along your journey in Shanghai, you’ll definitely want to stop by the new Shanghai Disney Resort. This is the first Disney resort to ever open inside of mainland China and has been a main attraction ever since. If you are familiar with Disney resorts in California, then you will be pleasantly surprised how much cheaper the admission tickets are in Shanghai, at almost half the costs. Fun for both kids and adults!

Best length for visiting: 3-4 hours

#10 – Shanghai Tower

The newly opened Shanghai Tower was just completed in 2016. With a total height of 632 meters, it’s the tallest building in China. The observation deck of this magnificent tower is also the tallest in the entire world. The Shanghai tower needs to be on your things to do in Shanghai list for sure. You won’t regret climbing to the top and being so high up. Another tower in the city which lights up the sky with it’s beautiful LED lights.

Best length for visiting: 1 hour

See Also >> Book a tour of Shanghai

Best Places To Visit In Shenzhen

Planning a trip To Shenzhen? You’ll enjoy this new and upcoming city. This is the largest tech city in the world and the fastest growing city in China. Located in Guangdong province, and just short distance to the Hong Kong border line. Over 30 years ago, Shenzhen was just a fishing village. Now it’s very modernized and filled with tall skyscrapers. With a population of more than 12 million people, it’s considered one the top livable cities.

Since Shenzhen is a newly developed city, there are not as many historical attractions to see here. Although that doesn’t mean it’s not one of the best places in China for tourists to visit. There are plenty of things to do in Shenzhen and places to explore. The metro system here is very well organized and convenient for getting around the city.

Top Attractions In Shenzhen:

#1 – Window Of The World

Windows of the world in Shenzhen is probably the most favorite place to visit for travelers to the city. It’s a theme park in the western part of the city which features miniature replicas of famous tourist attractions in the world. Here you can see things like a one-third scale replicate of the Eiffel Tower,  a miniature Taj Mahal, replica of the Borobudur Temple, skyscrapers of New York City, plus many more. There are over 130 different world themed attractions such as these to see. Very cool.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#2 – Shenzhen Museum

Visiting the Shenzhen museum you can see over 20 thousands pieces of historic relics. Which include exhibitions such as Ancient Shenzhen, Modern Shenzhen, Shenzhen Folk Culture, Wild Animal Specimens. You can reach the museum by metro off of Civic Center Station exit B. Admission into the museum is free.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#3 – Splendid China Folk Village

This theme park in Shenzhen is a collection of China’s best attractions displayed in miniature versions. With almost 100 houses scaled down to size of 1:15 the originals. They include famous attractions such as ancient buildings, natural sites, and folk culture. There is even a miniature version of the Great Wall of China to see here.  Located near the Shenzhen Bay. Ticket price is 200 RMB for 1 person. You definitely don’t want to miss one of the best places to visit in Shenzhen.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#4 – Dameisha Beach

If you’re visiting Shenzhen and like beaches, you will want to stop by Dameisha beach. This is the largest beach in all of Shenzhen. This very long and sandy beach is very scenic with mountain views. here you can swim, take a nice walk on the beach line, relax, or just grill some food. Depending on the weather, this beach can become overcrowded with locals so you will want to prepare well if you don’t like crowds. Best time to visit Dameisha beach is during the weekdays rather than weekend if possible.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#5 – Ping An Finance Centre

Another cool place to visit in Shenzhen is the Ping An Finance Centre off Yitian road in Futian district. This massive skyscraper stands 115 stories tall which makes it the tallest building in Shenzhen and the sixth tallest structure in the whole world. Get a great view of the city from top the free sky 116 observation deck.

Best length for visiting: 1 hour

#6 – Wutong Mountain

If you’re into mountain climbing or hiking, go to Wutong mountain in Shenzhen. It’s a favorite activity for locals as well as tourists. Located very close to downtown which makes it convenient to get to. The mountain has an altitude of 943 meters high and filled with numerous hiking trails for you to explore. Visit on a clear day and you can see Hong Kong across the way.

Best length for visiting: 3-4 hours

#7 – Lianhuashan Park

This is a beautiful park in Shenzhen to see if you want to get away from the busy city and see some culture instead. The park is full of flowers and and well care gardens.  Lots of people come here to relax, fly kites, and dance in the park. Climb the top of the hill and get a great vantage point of the city. There is also a large statue of Deng Xiaoping at the top of the hill. Lianhuashan park is located on the northern end of Futian Central Business District.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

See Also >> Book a tour of Shenzhen

Best Places To Visit In Guangzhou

Touring in Guangzhou has become much more popular in recent years. Guangzhou most notably known for it’s annual Canton fair where business leaders from around the world visit. The city has become tourist friendly with many things to do and attractions to see. There are plenty of museums, temples, food, shopping, a zoo, and even an amusement park. A sophisticated metro system will get you around the city with ease. Population size is around 11 million people.

Guangzhou is a large commodity manufacturing city which holds some of China’s most biggest trade fairs. Located in Guangdong province, not far from Shenzhen. Together these two cities are very big into manufacturing which is why you will often see many foreigners and business people staying here. Unlike most of the other cities in China which speak mostly Mandarin language, the main language spoken in Guangzhou is Cantonese.

Top Attractions In Guangzhou:

#1 – Canton Tower

You can’t visit Guangzhou without going to see the famous Canton Tower. This tower stands 1,982 feet tall and lights up the night sky with it’s colorful lights. It’s a multi-purpose observation tower which makes for great sightseeing of the entire city. There are plenty of restaurants, entertainment facilitates, and exhibitions. Also if you dare, on the very top of the tower are some thrill rides such as the sky drop and bubble tram. First on the list as this is one of the best things to do in Guangzhou.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#2 – Chimelong Paradise

Chimelong Paradise is an amusement park in Guangzhou and also the largest amusement park in China. Opened in 2006 and features 6 top roller coasters for you to enjoy. If you are thrill seeker, this is the place to be. With more than 70 attractions, there are lots of things to do. A 250 RMB ticket will get you an unlimited pass for a full days worth of entertainment. A great theme park in Guangzhou to spend an afternoon with the family.

Best length for visiting: 3-4 hours

#3 – Baiyun Mountain

Baiyum mountain is another one of the most famous attractions in Guangzhou for tourists. Also known as White Cloud Mountain, there is lots of natural beauty to be seen. With so much urban development in the city, being able to find a such a nice relaxing spot in nature is a great and unusual thing. If you don’t want to walk to the top of the mountain, there is also a cable car ride which will bring you to the top. You can reach the mountain using public transport such as the metro system. Beautiful place to see with lots of natural landscape. Worth the visit.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#4 – Temple Of The Six Banyan Trees

This historic site in Guangzhou is a Buddhist temple which is more than 1,400 years old built by the Ming Dynasty. The temple is maintained well and built with very beautiful architecture. Come here and you will get to see how monks are very good gardeners. A nice and peaceful place to visit in the city. Located on the Liurong Road which means the Six Banyan Trees Road, the temple can be reached by the MRT. Entry fee is very cheap so if you have some spare time during your travel in Guangzhou, come check it out.

Best length for visiting: 1 hour

#5 – Chimelong Safari Park

A wild animal theme park located in Panyu, Guangzhou which features all kinds of different animal species in the world. Here you can see giant pandas, koalas, Asian elephants, giraffes, plus many more. One of the favorite things to do is you are allowed to feed the elephants and giraffes. There is a sky-lift if you want to get an overview of the park, or take a safari train ride. A fun place to visit if you have children. Best time to go is during the weekdays, as the weekends tend to get crowded.

Best length for visiting: 3 hours

#6 – Shamian Island

Here is a spot with some old colonial styled buildings which have been turned into exhibition rooms and shops for tourists. This famous attraction in Guangzhou is located in Liwan district. The island is divided as French and British concession. Name of the island comes from the Chinese meaning “sandy surface”. A nice place to spend an afternoon walk, do some shopping, get some tea, and explore the various buildings Shamian Island has to offer.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#7 – Yue Xiu Park

This is the largest park in downtown Guangzhou which features great mountain views, beautiful lakes, as well as entertainment facilities. The park consists of of several attractions which include Five Rams, Zhenhai Tower, Ming Dynasty City Wall, and Square Cannon. With a total area of 212 acres, it has seven mountains, three artificial lakes. Inside the park you can also find a museum with calligraphy and master paintings work. Best time to visit Yue Xiu Park is during the Spring Festival between January 25th – Feb 5th where you can experience the stunning lantern show display.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#8 – Guangdong Museum

Anther favorite for travelers is to spend some time at the Guangdong Museum which features Cantonese art, nature, culture, and history in Guangzhou. Some of the special exhibits here like the Tang Dynasty Arts and Egyptian artifacts. Lines to get into the museum usually wrap around the whole building. Make sure you to bring your passport as it’s a requirement before entering the building. Come early and you won’t need to pay any admission fee.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

See Also >> Book a tour of Guangzhou

Best Places To Visit In Xiamen

One of the best places to visit in China has to be Xiamen Island in Fujian province. Also known by many as “Amoy”.  This top tourist city is not only travel hot spot for travelers around the world, but also a favorite destination among Chinese people to visit. This small beautiful island in southeast China is quickly developing into a top tier city. The year round warm weather and fresh clean air continues to attract tourists to this city. The total population in Xiamen is approaching 4 million people.

There are lots of things to do in Xiamen for tourists. Taking a tour of Gulangyu island, shopping on Zhongshan road, or enjoying the delicious food the city has to offer. Getting around the island is very easy with it’s convenient modes of transportation. Taking a taxi or the Bus rapid transit (BRT) are the most common methods. There is also a new subway transit system being built which will be fully completed soon.

Top Attractions In Xiamen:

#1 – Gulangyu Island

Take a tour of Gulangyu island is one of the best things to do in Xiamen. The island features many colonial style buildings, museums, food, and ancient relics. A beautiful little island popular for couples to frequents visit together for a romantic evening. Many also come here to take wedding photos around the lovely scenery. There are no cars and the whole island can be seen by walking. You can get to Gulangyu by taking a short ferry ride. Highly recommend for a days worth of touring in Xiamen.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#2 – South Putuo Temple

A Buddhist temple near Xiamen University which was founded during the Ting Dynasty. Makes for a nice and relaxing day after hiking up the top of the hill to see the temple and the amazing views of the city. Inside the temple there is also a restaurant which serves vegetarian food. Once you reach the top of the hill you will be connected to Botanic Gardens. So if you want to visit both the temple and the gardens then it’s very convenient to do so.

Best length for visiting: 1 hour

#3 – Hulishan Cannon Fort

A historic site in Xiamen located near the southern coastline of the island. Hulishan fortress has been guarding the Chinese shore for more than century. This important landmark in the city is preserved by the government and become a popular place for tourists to visit. There are lots of cannons here and the worlds largest rear loading cannon to see. If you come in the morning or afternoon there are some shows put on which you can see as well.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#4 – Yongding Earth Buildings

The unique style of architecture of ancient China buildings in Longyan city are a sight you won’t want to miss. Tulou is where the Hakka and Minnan people live. After Hakka people were forced south during the war of late Tang and early Song Dynasties, they were forced to build such fortress style buildings. The Toulou buildings are divided into both rectangular and circular buildings. Together, there are more than 4,000 circular earth buildings in Yongding. Chuxi Tulou Cluster, Hongkeng Tulou Cluster, Gaobei Tulou Cluster, Yangxing Lou, Zhenfu Lou, Tianloukeng Tulou Cluster, Hekeng Tulou Cluster, Huaiyuan Lou, Hefui Lou, and Dadi Tulou Cluster are the most famous ones.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#5 – Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street

If you’re into shopping then you want to checkout Zhongshan road in Xiamen for it’s famous walking street. Here have many different varieties of shops, food, and other fun attractions. Lots of Fujian cuisines and snacks are available for eating here. The beautiful buildings lined on this street were built in the 1920’s and have unique designs. With the new metro system in place, getting to Zhongshan road is quick and easy.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#6 – Wuyi Mountains

If you feel adveentrous and like to see landscape and nature, take a short ride off the island to visit the Wuyi mountains. Located in norther Fujian near the border of Jiangxi. The beautiful montains (formally known as Bohea hills) are a fun, cultural, and scenic spot to visit during your travel in Xiamen. The incredible scenery as well as the history here, make it well worth the visit. Bring your camera as you will want to capture some wonderful shots of these amazing mountains.

Best length for visiting: 3 hours

#7 – Jimei University

Another popular place to visit in Xiamen is Jimei University located off the northwest border of the island. A great scenic spot in the city which many tourist attractions such as Turtle Garden, Returnees Garden, museums, and the previous home of the Singaporean founder Tan Kah-Kee. A nice and peaceful place to visit. The great architecture of the buildings and well clean upkeep of the city will make for a wonderful day of sightseeing. You can reach the island easily using the BRT system in Xiamen.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

See Also >> Book a tour of Xiamen

Best Places To Visit In Chengdu

Next on our list of best places to visit in China has is Chengdu in Sichuan province. This large and relaxing city is well known for it’s giant pandas and Sichuan food. There are many historical and cultural sites to visit in Chengdu. Known as the land of abundance, this laid back city is a must see for any tourist visiting China. The long history of the city dates back as far as the 4th century BC. If you’re traveling to Chengdu then you don’t want to miss all the wonderful attractions and delicious hotpot food the city has to offer.

With a population size of 15 million people, it’s one of the largest cities in all of China. As one of the most important cities in western China for it’s financial, economic, cultural, and transportation centers. The city is very unique for the fact it has maintained it’s name for a very long time throughout the entire imperial, republican, and communist eras.

Top Attractions In Chengdu:

#1 – Research Base Of Giant Panda Breeding

You can’t plan a trip to Chengdu without visiting the research base of giant panda breeding. This top attraction in Chengdu is the most favorite for every traveler to see. It’s a giant museum dedicated to the endangered species of giant pandas. This research center focuses on caring for baby pandas. You can also see some red pandas, black swans, and peacocks here. Location of the base is about 10 kilometers from downtown Chengdu. Best time to visit is during the cooler months if possible and go in the morning.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#2 – Dujiangyan Irrigation System

Another cool place to visit in Chengdu is the Dujiangyan irrigation system where you can see demonstrations of ancient Chinese technology. This stunning engineering is over 2000 years old and supplies the water for Chengdu. The city would not be the same today if not for this system. A nice historic place for you to walk around and relax. Also have amenities such as food and rides for you to enjoy here.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#3 – Mount Qingcheng

This mountain located in Dujiangyan, Sichuan is one of the most important centers for Taoist in China. Mount Qingcheng is a huge mountain with great scenery if you want to enjoy taking a hike or walk. Best to hire a tour guide during this trip to get a full depth analysis of the rich culture here. You can also take a ferry across the lake or ride the cable car for a faster way reach the top of the mountain. Plenty of food and tea houses along the way to enjoy as well.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#4 – Du Fu Thatched Cottage

This former residence of Du Fu is a traditional Chinese garden in Chengdu which features cultural temple and ancient style architecture as well as a tranquil garden. Du Fu was one of the most important poets and figures in China. A lovely place to walk around and take in mother nature with it’s gardens, ponds, and fresh air. You can see poems written by Du Fu on the walls with Chinese calligraphy.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#5 – Kuanzhai Alley

An ancient street in Chengdu with lots of history from the Qing Dynasty. Here you can see lots of old traditional Chinese buildings, eat some local snacks, visit shops, and drink tea. There are 3 streets here with lots of things to see and do. It can get crowded especially if you try and visit during a Chinese holiday. Go during the weekday early morning to avoid crowds.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#6 – Sanxingdui Museum

A very interesting museum in Chengdu showcasing various pieces of bronze ware. The large bronze masks and trees will leave you wondering just how or why these were used in Chinese history. If you are at all interested in ancient Chinese history or artifacts, come visit here during an afternoon and you won’t be disappointed. Unlike anything else you will see in China. Located about 40 kilometers outside of the main city.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#7 – Wenshu Yuan Monastery

A beautiful little temple located in downtown Chengdu also considered one of the best places to visit in Chengdu. Enjoy a free entrance fee with some good sightseeing, gardens, and drink free tea in a truly authentic environment. Very relaxing and peaceful place which makes the Wenshu Yuan Monastery a great attraction to visit.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

#8 – Chengdu Wuhou Shrine

The Gengdu Wuhou shrine is an interesting place to visit which shows a mixture of temples, artifacts, and gardens. A shrine which is of important historical significance to the residents of Chengdu. Can see pretty waterfalls, ponds, and bonsai gardens if you visit during the spring or summer months. Located next to Jinli street in Chengdu, there is lots of space here with it’s large layout and relaxing environment. Tends to be less crowded than other tourist locations as there is a small entry fee to get in.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

See Also >> Book a tour of Chengdu

Best Places To Visit In Chongqing

Chongqing makes for an interesting place to travel to in China with it’s natural beauty and long history. Located in Sichuan province right where the Jialing River and Yangtze River meet together. There are many fun and interesting things to do in Chongqing such as visiting the Yangtze Three Gorges, numerous awesome landmarks in the city, grottoes, and great museums. Also not too far way is the city of Chengdu. Going to see giant panda at the Chongqing zoo is a common thing to do here.

With a very large land mass and total population over 30 million people, this very large municipality city is the most populous city proper in the world if counting by population. The total land mass covers about 82 thousand square kilometers. Chongqing is known now as a big industrial city surrounded by oil fields and iron mines. As the city evolves, it’s striving to become more of an electronics and automotive industry.

Top Attractions In Chongqing:

#1 – Fengdu Ghost City

The Fengdu Ghost City is where you can go and see temples, shrines, and monasteries which are dedicated to those who have past away. The complex is located on the Ming mountain near the Yangtze river in Chongqing. You can see lots of buildings and structures modeled to look like Youdu, the capital of Diyu. Prepare for a long walk to the top with many steps or if you prefer, there is a chair lift which can take you to the top. An interesting place for anyone to visit during their tour of Chongqing.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#2 – Dazu Rock Carvings

This world heritage site dates back to 7th century A.D. showcasing over 50,000 statues influenced by Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist beliefs. The main attraction of Dazu rock carvings are a cluster of Baodingshan. There are several different sections of carvings each with their own unique styles. The distance from Chongqing to Dazu is about 120 kilometers. Best way to get there would be to hire a driver. The cost to enter is around 55 yuan and well worth the experience.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#3 – Three Natural Bridges

If you take about a 3-4 hour bus ride from Chongqing to Xiannushan Town in Wulong District, you can visit the Three Natural Bridges. The three famous bridges made of natural stone are the Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge, and the Heilong Bridge. An amazing place to visit in Chongqing with great scenery and walking caverns to explore. Bring your hiking shoes and prepare for lots of walking. Come in the summer and you can walk through a big waterfall.

Best length for visiting: 3 hours

#4 – Three Gorges Museum

The Three Gorges Museum in Chongqing is one of the largest museums in the western part of China featuring over 170,000 different artifacts. Here you can see lots of unique architecture, historical relics, and beautiful arts. The whole museum is split up into 4 different themes such as the “history and spirit of the Three Gorges”, and the “long history of ancient Bashu Area”.  Exploring here will give you an excellent understanding of Yangtze.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#5 – Eling Park

To get a great view of the Yangtze and Jiangling River, come visit E’ling park also known as “Goose Neck Park”. The park has a long history built during the Qing Dynasty. A bit of a climb to the top but once there you can a spectacular view of Chongqing city, making it worth the hike. A great way to see the whole city layout and spend a lovely afternoon. When you visit E’ling park during the night time you can see the beautiful display of lights shinning. Entry into Eling park is free.

Best length for visiting: 2 hours

#6 – Chongqing Zoo

You can’t travel to Chongqing without stopping by to explore it’s most famous zoo. The highlight of the zoo are of course the lovely giant pandas. However, there are plenty of other animals and exhibits such as the South China tigers, fish, and other rare species to enjoy. There are more than 6,000 animals to see. Chongqing zoo is located about 8 kilometers southwest from the city center. One of the top attractions in Chongqing everyone.

Best length for visiting: 2-3 hours

#7 – Wulong Karst Geological Park

This gem of a park located in Wulong is not very well known to many tourists yet but a fantastic place to see. Located in the same town as the Three Natural Bridges, Furong Cave, and Fairy Mountains National Forest park. You can come here and see how amazing mother nature can be. Lots of natural scenery and landscape to hike around and explore. The park is listed in the UNESCO world heritage list.

Best length for visiting: 3-4 hours

#8 – Hongya Cave

Another interesting attraction for Chongqing tourists is to explore the Hongya cave area in the district of Jiefangbei. An fun area with lots of entertainment, shopping, and eating which highlights Bayu culture. Great for taking photographs with an amazing light show displayed at night. A popular among locals and tourists which makes it quite busy. Nice little tourist attraction in Chongqing worth spending a little time checking out.

Best length for visiting: 1-2 hours

See Also >> Book a tour of Chongqing

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