Your first journey to China

A little planning.
A whole new world.

Find your kind of China. Pick a good time, leave room to wander, and arrive knowing the little things that make a big difference.

Check your travel dates

AI-generated view of the Li River and Guilin's karst peaks in soft morning light — 山水之间 · BETWEEN MOUNTAINS AND WATER
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
87318-Li-River.jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.

Start with the calendar

The right week changes the trip.

Spring Festival, Labor Day and National Day can bring packed trains, queues and higher flight or hotel prices. Demand depends on your route, so compare actual fares before choosing dates.

For a first trip, start by comparing spring and autumn dates outside the public holidays. Then check the weather for each destination.

See holidays, crowds & booking tips

Find your next city

Cities & main attractions

Browse the main sights in each city. Some are outside the city center.

40 cities · 160 main attractions

01 / Northern China

北京

Beijing

Forbidden City
Vermilion walls and vast courtyards reveal the scale of the Ming and Qing imperial palace.
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The Forbidden City - View from Coal Hill.jpg
Pixelflake
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Badaling Great Wall
Watch the Great Wall climb steep ridges along this celebrated mountain section.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Peking Grosse Mauer-20071019-RM-115708.jpg
Reinhold Möller
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Summer Palace
Kunming Lake, covered walkways and Longevity Hill frame an expansive imperial garden.
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Longevity Hill of the Summer Palace.jpg
xiquinhosilva
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Temple of Heaven
Blue-tiled ceremonial halls stand within the former imperial altar complex.
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Temple of Heaven 20160323 01.jpg
Shujianyang
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History & culture · City life

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Attraction sources

english.visitbeijing.com.cn ↗

02 / Eastern China

上海

Shanghai

The Bund
Historic riverfront buildings face the modern skyline across the Huangpu River.
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The Bund 2.jpg
钉钉
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Yuyuan Garden
Rock gardens, ponds and winding corridors offer a compact glimpse of classical garden design.
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Shanghai - Yu Garden - 0035.jpg
Stefan Fussan
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Oriental Pearl Tower
The tower’s distinctive spheres rise above the Lujiazui riverside skyline.
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Nightime Shanghai skyline 2019.jpg
Liljimbo
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Shanghai Museum
Explore Chinese art through collections of bronzes, ceramics, painting and calligraphy.
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Shanghai Museum exterior 1.jpg
Hanjiang 2009 ( 寒江2009 )
CC BY 2.0
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City life · History & culture

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Attraction sources

english.shanghai.gov.cn ↗

03 / Northwestern China

西安

Xi’an

Terracotta Army
Rows of life-size clay soldiers guard the burial complex of China’s first emperor.
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51714-Terracota-Army.jpg
xiquinhosilva
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Xi’an City Wall
Walk along the broad ramparts for views over the old city and its gates.
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City wall of Xi'an 51550-Xian (27959363326).jpg
xiquinhosilva
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Big Wild Goose Pagoda
This brick pagoda recalls the Buddhist scriptures brought back by the monk Xuanzang.
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Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.jpg
Alex Kwok
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Shaanxi History Museum
Archaeological finds trace Shaanxi’s long history, with especially rich Han and Tang collections.
Photo credits
Shaanxi History Museum.jpg
Wang Zhongyin
CC BY-SA 4.0

History & culture · Food & slow days

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04 / Southwestern China

成都

Chengdu

Chengdu Panda Base
See giant pandas in a landscaped research and conservation setting.
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Panda in Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding - 7708872342.jpg
George Lu
CC BY 2.0
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Wuhou Shrine
Shaded courtyards commemorate Zhuge Liang, Liu Bei and the history of Shu Han.
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Wuhou Shrine 20260513.jpg
Suicasmo
CC0
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Du Fu Thatched Cottage
Gardens and traditional buildings commemorate the poet Du Fu’s years in Chengdu.
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Du Fu cao tang.jpg
User:唐戈
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Dujiangyan Irrigation System
River channels and historic waterworks show how this ancient irrigation system manages the Min River.
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Dujiang Weir.jpg
星星
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Food & slow days · Nature & scenery · History & culture

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05 / Southern China

桂林

Guilin

Li River
Limestone peaks and riverside villages unfold along Guilin’s best-known river landscape.
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87318-Li-River.jpg
xiquinhosilva
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Elephant Trunk Hill
A riverside limestone arch resembles an elephant lowering its trunk into the water.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Xiangshan Scenic Area 89468-Guilin (31130832628).jpg
xiquinhosilva
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Yulong River (Yangshuo)
Low weirs, bamboo rafts and karst hills give this Yangshuo river a gentler pace.
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Yulong.JPG
Qeqertaq
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Longji Rice Terraces (Longsheng)
Rice terraces curve around mountain slopes, changing color with the growing seasons.
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LongshengRiceTerrace.jpg
severin.stalder
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Nature & scenery · Food & slow days

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06 / Central China

张家界

Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Tall sandstone pillars rise from wooded valleys, often wrapped in drifting cloud.
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1 tianzishan wulingyuan zhangjiajie 2012.jpg
chensiyuan
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Tianmen Mountain
A huge natural arch and cliffside paths define this dramatic mountain above the city.
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Tianmen 38330-Zhangjiajie (49047525877).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
A deep green gorge and a glass bridge offer two perspectives on the canyon landscape.
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ZhangjiajieGlassByHighestBridges.jpg
HighestBridges
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Baofeng Lake
A lake enclosed by steep green hills adds a quieter waterside view to Zhangjiajie.
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张家界国家森林公园-宝峰湖 - panoramio.jpg
欧治
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Nature & scenery

Read travel guide

Attraction sources

enghunan.gov.cn ↗

07 / Northern China

天津

Tianjin

Five Great Avenues
Tree-lined streets gather villas and townhouses in a variety of historic architectural styles.
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Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Five Great Avenues 21496-Tianjin (49063957412).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Ancient Culture Street
Traditional-style shopfronts surround Tianhou Palace, with crafts and local folk culture along the street.
Photo credits
Ancient Culture Street entrance.jpg
William M Benson
Public domain
Tianjin Eye
A bridge-mounted Ferris wheel forms a distinctive landmark over the Hai River.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
天津之眼北1.jpg
KangTyngrwey
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Italian Style Town
Historic streets and European-style facades preserve traces of the former Italian concession.
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Italian Style Town 21295-Tianjin (48709349507).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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City life · History & culture

Attraction sources

08 / Northern China

大同

Datong

Yungang Grottoes
Buddhist statues carved into sandstone cliffs reveal the art of the Northern Wei period.
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61292-Yungang-Grottoes (28498548881).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Huayan Temple
Grand timber halls and Buddhist sculpture preserve the atmosphere of a historic monastery.
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Huayan Temple (Datong) 1.jpg
Dudva
CC0
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Hanging Temple (Hunyuan)
Temple halls cling to a cliff face above a gorge near Mount Heng.
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Hangingtemple20190929.jpg
Charlie fong
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Nine-Dragon Wall
Nine glazed dragons coil across a colorful screen wall in the old city.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Datong Nine dragon wall (4) January 1985.jpg
BabelStone
CC BY-SA 4.0
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History & culture

Attraction sources

www.dt.gov.cn ↗

09 / Northern China

承德

Chengde

Chengde Mountain Resort
Lakes, gardens and wooded hills formed a vast summer retreat for Qing emperors.
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Chengde Mountain Resort 22944-Chengde (44830038471).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Puning Temple
This Buddhist temple combines architectural traditions and houses a monumental wooden Guanyin.
Photo credits
普宁寺大雄宝殿2025.11.jpg
ScareCriterion12
CC BY-SA 4.0
Putuo Zongcheng Temple
Terraces and red-walled buildings recall Tibetan palace and monastery architecture.
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Putuo Zongcheng Temple.jpg
Gisling
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Qingchui Peak
A solitary rock pillar rises above the wooded hills east of Chengde.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
磬锤峰20120804.JPG
颐园新居
CC BY-SA 3.0
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History & culture · Nature & scenery

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10 / Northeastern China

哈尔滨

Harbin

Central Street
A pedestrian street of historic facades recalls Harbin’s early cosmopolitan history.
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Zhongyang Street, Central Street, Harbin 06.01.2026.jpg
SmallSonMarex
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Saint Sophia Cathedral
Green domes and red brick make this former Orthodox church a city landmark.
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West facade of St. Sophia Cathedral, Harbin (20230721150450).jpg
N509FZ
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Sun Island
Riverside parkland offers open lawns, waterways and seasonal snow sculpture displays.
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Harbin Sun Island Waterfall 01.jpg
Caliva
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Harbin Ice and Snow World (winter ice sculptures)
In winter, monumental ice buildings glow with colored light after dark.
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Ice Snow World.jpg
Photo by Lin Yang
CC BY-SA 3.0
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City life · Nature & scenery

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11 / Northeastern China

沈阳

Shenyang

Shenyang Imperial Palace
Compact palace courtyards preserve the history of the early Qing rulers.
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Mukden Palace drone view 5 (cropped & rotated).jpg
Techyan
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Zhaoling Tomb (Beiling Park)
A long ceremonial route leads through parkland to a Qing imperial tomb complex.
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Beiling Park 24617-Shenyang (49052226601).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Marshal Zhang’s Mansion
Courtyards and mansion buildings tell the story of Zhang Zuolin and Zhang Xueliang.
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沈阳张氏帅府大青楼2024.10 (2).jpg
ScareCriterion12
CC0
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Fuling Tomb (Dongling Park)
Wooded grounds surround the tomb of Nurhaci, founder of the Later Jin state.
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2014 East Tomb (Fuling, Tomb of Manchu Chief Nurhachi) 01, cropped.jpg
Great Brightstar
CC0
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History & culture · City life

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12 / Northeastern China

大连

Dalian

Xinghai Square
A broad coastal square opens toward the sea and the curve of Xinghai Bay.
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Xinghai Square .jpg
HSJ233
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Golden Pebble Beach
Weathered coastal rocks and beaches reveal the varied scenery of this seaside resort area.
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Dalian Jinshitan Coastal Geopark.jpg
信之洋
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Tiger Beach Ocean Park
Marine exhibits and a scenic bay bring together Dalian’s aquarium and coastal attractions.
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Dalian Liaoning China Laohutan-Ocean-Park-01.jpg
Photo by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas or alternatively © CEphoto, Uwe Aranas
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Bangchuidao Scenic Area
Wooded slopes frame a beach looking toward the small offshore Bangchui islet.
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Bangchuidao Island.JPG
JesseW900
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13 / Eastern China

南京

Nanjing

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum
A long staircase climbs toward the blue-roofed memorial on Purple Mountain.
Photo credits
Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum - 54400198691.jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
A stone-lined sacred way leads into the burial landscape of the first Ming emperor.
Photo credits
Nanjing Ming Xiaoling 2017.11.11 08-10-27.jpg
Zhangzhugang
CC BY-SA 4.0
Confucius Temple & Qinhuai River
Temple streets and riverside buildings come together around Nanjing’s historic Qinhuai waterfront.
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Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
KuiGuangGe of Nanjing Confucian Temple.jpg
wang leon from Nanjing, China
CC BY 2.0
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Xuanwu Lake
Linked islands and lakeside paths offer wide views toward the city wall and skyline.
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Taicheng sunny.jpg
Anna from Bat Country, California
CC BY 2.0
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14 / Eastern China

苏州

Suzhou

Humble Administrator’s Garden
Ponds, pavilions and carefully framed views form one of Suzhou’s celebrated classical gardens.
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Suzhou Zhuozheng Yuan 2015.04.23 08-13-49.jpg
Zhangzhugang
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Lingering Garden
Covered passages reveal changing scenes of courtyards, rocks and water.
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Lingering Garden.jpg
钉钉
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Tiger Hill
A leaning pagoda crowns this historic hill, surrounded by gardens and stone paths.
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2024-Apr Suzhou - Tiger Hill Pagoda 虎丘塔 (Huqiu Ta) - img 04.jpg
Chainwit.
CC BY 4.0
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Pingjiang Road
A narrow canal runs beside old houses, small bridges and neighborhood lanes.
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平江路水边屋 (6650474839).jpg
kevinmcgill from Den Bosch, Netherlands
CC BY-SA 2.0
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15 / Eastern China

杭州

Hangzhou

West Lake
Causeways, islands and wooded hills frame Hangzhou’s classic lake landscape.
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West Lake, Hangzhou 2025.jpg
Takashishin
CC BY 4.0
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Lingyin Temple
A large Buddhist temple sits in wooded hills beside the carvings of Feilai Peak.
Photo credits
Lingyin Temple, Hangzhou 20161003.jpg
Tyg728
CC BY-SA 4.0
Xixi National Wetland Park
Waterways, reed beds and village traces form a wetland landscape on the city’s edge.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Xixi Wetland Park, Hangzhou, China.jpg
Yoshi Canopus
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Liangzhu Archaeological Site Park
Open landscapes and archaeological remains mark the heart of an early urban civilization.
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Liangzhu Archaeological Site, 2019-07-20 06.jpg
Siyuwj
CC BY-SA 4.0
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16 / Eastern China

黄山

Huangshan

Mount Huangshan
Granite peaks, sculptural pines and shifting cloud seas define the mountain scenery.
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Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Huangshan pic 4.jpg
Chi King
CC BY 2.0
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Hongcun Village (Yi County)
White-walled houses gather around ponds beneath the hills of southern Anhui.
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Yixian Hongcun 2016.09.09 17-27-03.jpg
Zhangzhugang
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Xidi Village (Yi County)
Stone gateways and finely carved houses preserve the character of an old Huizhou village.
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西递牌楼.jpg
EditQ
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Tunxi Old Street
Historic shopfronts line a pedestrian street known for Huizhou crafts and local flavors.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
屯溪老街 Tunxi Old Street - panoramio.jpg
lienyuan lee
CC BY 3.0
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17 / Eastern China

青岛

Qingdao

Zhanqiao Pier
A long pier reaches into the bay, ending at a traditional pavilion.
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Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
20240729 Zhanqiao 02.jpg
Windmemories
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Badaguan
Leafy streets and varied villas meet small bays in this historic coastal neighborhood.
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Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
青岛八大关花石楼.jpg
Gisling
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Mount Lao
Granite peaks and Taoist temples rise close to the Yellow Sea coast.
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Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
20240730 Dabiao Mountain of Mount Lao 01.jpg
Windmemories
CC BY-SA 4.0
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May Fourth Square
The red May Wind sculpture stands against the waterfront and modern city skyline.
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Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
51367-Qingdao (xiquinhosilva) - Flickr.jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Nature & scenery · City life

Attraction sources

www.qingdao.gov.cn ↗

18 / Eastern China

济南

Jinan

Baotu Spring
Spring water wells up through ornamental pools in Jinan’s best-known spring garden.
Photo credits
China Jinan 5196975.jpg
Reinhold Möller
CC BY-SA 4.0
Daming Lake
Willows, lotus ponds and pavilions surround a broad lake fed by the city’s springs.
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大明湖南門.jpg
Vitsuha
CC0
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Thousand Buddha Mountain
Hillside Buddhist carvings and trails offer views across Jinan.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Mountain of One Thousand Buddhas-20150520-RM-110702.jpg
Reinhold Möller
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Black Tiger Spring
Water pours from carved tiger heads into a spring pool beside the old moat.
Photo credits
Black Tiger Spring 20250301.jpg
Steven Sun
CC BY-SA 4.0

Nature & scenery · Food & slow days

Attraction sources

www.jinan.gov.cn ↗

19 / Eastern China

福州

Fuzhou

Three Lanes and Seven Alleys
Lanes of historic houses reveal the architecture and family stories of old Fuzhou.
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东百中心A馆10楼瞭望台西三坊七巷.jpg
董辰兴
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Gushan Mountain
Mountain paths lead toward Yongquan Temple through a wooded hillside landscape.
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Yongquan Temple in Gushan Mountain, Fuzhou.jpg
Jack Parkinson
CC BY 2.0
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Shangxiahang Historic District
Restored streets and riverside buildings recall Fuzhou’s former trading neighborhoods.
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20181004 福州上下杭 04.jpg
Cyclohexane233
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Yantai Hill Historic District
Hillside lanes connect former consulates, old residences and views over the Min River.
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American Consulate in Fuzhou, abandoned.jpg
Yejianfei
CC BY 4.0
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20 / Eastern China

厦门

Xiamen

Gulangyu Island
A small island of winding lanes, historic villas and sea views sits across from central Xiamen.
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2018年的鼓浪屿.jpg
-森屿-
CC BY 2.5
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South Putuo Temple
Buddhist halls and lotus ponds sit below the wooded slopes of Wulao Peak.
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Nanputuo Xiamen.jpg
丰毅叶
CC BY-SA 2.0
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Hulishan Fortress
A coastal fort preserves historic artillery and a commanding position above the sea.
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Hulishan Fortress, Xiamen, China.JPG
User: (WT-shared) Shoestring at wts wikivoyage
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Huandao Road Seafront
Seaside paths connect sandy beaches, rocky shores and open views across the water.
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Huandao Rd.JPG
Xmhaoyu
CC BY 3.0
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21 / Central China

郑州

Zhengzhou

Henan Museum
Bronzes, ceramics and other archaeological treasures introduce the history of the Central Plains.
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20210220 Henan Museum - main hall 01.jpg
Windmemories
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Shaolin Temple (Dengfeng)
Temple courtyards and the nearby pagoda forest connect Buddhist history with martial arts traditions.
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Shaolin Temple (10199450903).jpg
Gary Todd from Xinzheng, China
CC0
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Songyang Academy (Dengfeng)
Historic halls and ancient cypress trees recall the tradition of Confucian learning below Mount Song.
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20250629 Songyang Academy 08.jpg
Windmemories
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Erqi Memorial Tower
Twin towers in the city center commemorate the railway workers’ movement of 1923.
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Erqi.jpg
Openthedoors
CC BY-SA 3.0
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22 / Central China

洛阳

Luoyang

Longmen Grottoes
Buddhist caves and monumental statues line the limestone cliffs beside the Yi River.
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27427-Luoyang (49067744628).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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White Horse Temple
Temple courtyards recall an early chapter in the spread of Buddhism to China.
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27495-Luoyang, White Horse Temple.jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Guanlin Temple
A temple and memorial complex honors Guan Yu through halls, courtyards and ancient trees.
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Guanlin Temple.jpg
Kevin Poh from Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
CC BY 2.0
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Sui-Tang Luoyang City National Heritage Park
Archaeological sites and reconstructed landmarks evoke the imperial capital of the Sui and Tang.
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20230124 Tiantang and Mingtang.jpg
Windmemories
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23 / Central China

开封

Kaifeng

Millennium City Park
A reconstructed Song-style landscape draws inspiration from the famous Qingming Scroll.
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Small Bridge at Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden, Kaifeng, China.jpg
w:en:Jps3 ( talk | contribs )
Public domain
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Dragon Pavilion
A palace-style hall rises above a high terrace overlooking lakes and gardens.
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龙亭公园 - panoramio (2).jpg
caoyuan
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Iron Pagoda
Glazed brown bricks give this Song-era pagoda its iron-like appearance.
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Iron Pagoda Cropped.jpg
Robinlun
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Kaifeng Prefecture
A reconstructed government compound introduces the stories and institutions of Song-era Kaifeng.
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开封府大门 - panoramio.jpg
江上清风1961
CC BY 3.0
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www.kaifeng.gov.cn ↗

24 / Central China

武汉

Wuhan

Yellow Crane Tower
A multi-tiered tower above the Yangtze recalls centuries of poetry and river travel.
Photo credits
CN - Hubei - Wuhan - Kranichpagode.jpg
MonsieurRoi
CC BY-SA 3.0
East Lake
Lakeside greenways and wooded hills make a broad scenic escape within the city.
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东湖小船 - Boat on East Lake - 2016.04 - panoramio.jpg
Chen Huang
CC BY 3.0
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Hubei Provincial Museum
Archaeological collections illuminate Chu culture, including the celebrated Zenghouyi chime bells.
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Hubei Provincial Museum.JPG
No machine-readable author provided. 风之清扬 assumed (based on copyright claims).
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Guiyuan Temple
Quiet Buddhist courtyards are known for their halls and collection of arhat statues.
Photo credits
武汉归元禅寺.JPG
Gisling
CC BY 3.0

History & culture · City life

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www.wuhan.gov.cn ↗

25 / Central China

长沙

Changsha

Yuelu Mountain
Wooded paths, pavilions and historic sites cover the slopes west of the Xiang River.
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Yuelu Mountain DSC 2754 (2258874023).jpg
drnan tu from Shenzhen, China
CC BY-SA 2.0
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Orange Isle
A long river island combines open parkland with views of Changsha on both banks.
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Orange Isle, Changsha 8.jpg
EditQ
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Yuelu Academy
Courtyards at the foot of Yuelu Mountain preserve a celebrated tradition of Chinese learning.
Photo credits
Yuelu-Academy-Gate.jpg
Lectern
Public domain
Tianxin Pavilion
A traditional pavilion stands on a surviving stretch of the old city wall.
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Changsha Tianxin Pavilion.jpg
Cncs
CC BY-SA 3.0
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26 / Southern China

广州

Guangzhou

Canton Tower
A slender twisting tower marks the Pearl River skyline, especially after dark.
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Canton Tower 20241027 (cropped).jpg
Tim Wu
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
Wood, brick, stone and ceramic decoration showcase the richness of Lingnan craftsmanship.
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Chen Clan Ancestral Hall 2025.06 02.jpg
Shujianyang
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Shamian Island
Tree-lined avenues and historic European-style buildings form a compact riverside neighborhood.
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ShamianIsland.JPG
David Wong
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Baiyun Mountain
Wooded hills and viewpoints offer an elevated perspective over Guangzhou.
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Guangzhou BaiyunShan.jpg
User:Popolon
CC BY-SA 3.0
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27 / Southern China

深圳

Shenzhen

Window of the World
Miniature versions of world landmarks are arranged within a large theme park.
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WINDOWS OF THE WORLD SHENZHEN (13).jpg
Dinkun Chen
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Splendid China Folk Village
Miniature Chinese landmarks and cultural village areas introduce regional architecture and traditions.
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Splendid China 002.jpg
Dmpendse at English Wikipedia
Public domain
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Dapeng Fortress
Stone gates, narrow lanes and old houses preserve a former coastal defense settlement.
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大鹏所城南门东路.jpg
Iswzo
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Lianhuashan Park
An easy hill walk leads to open views across Shenzhen’s civic center.
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Lianhuashan Garden.jpg
jo.sau from London/Vilnius, UK/Lithuania
CC BY 2.0
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28 / Southern China

三亚

Sanya

Yalong Bay
A wide sandy beach curves around a sheltered bay backed by tropical greenery.
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Yalong Bay 01.jpg
Anna Frodesiak
Public domain
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Wuzhizhou Island
Clear coastal water and an island shoreline frame a well-known seaside excursion from Sanya.
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Wuzhizhou Island seaside scenery.jpg
我乃野云鹤
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone
Buddhist buildings and a monumental seaside Guanyin statue define this coastal cultural park.
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Guan Yin of the South Sea of Sanya.JPG
Jazon88
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Tianya Haijiao
Inscribed coastal boulders give this beach its long association with the edge of the world.
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Tianya Haijiao - 01.jpg
Anna Frodesiak
CC0
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29 / Southern China

海口

Haikou

Qilou Old Street
Arcaded shopfronts show how Hainan’s trading streets adapted to tropical sun and rain.
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Zhongshan Road at dusk.jpg
Renek78
CC0
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Wugong Temple
Traditional halls and gardens commemorate officials exiled to Hainan in earlier dynasties.
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Five officials haikou 2010 01.jpg
Rolfmueller
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Haikou Volcanic Cluster Geopark
Volcanic cones, lava formations and village landscapes reveal the island’s geological past.
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Leiqiong Global Geopark - 01.jpg
Anna Frodesiak
CC0
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Hainan Museum
Exhibitions explore Hainan’s archaeology, maritime connections and island cultures.
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Hainan Museum 01.jpg
Anna Frodesiak
CC0
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30 / Southwestern China

重庆

Chongqing

Hongya Cave
Layered riverside buildings glow above the river, recalling Chongqing’s stilt-house architecture.
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202308 Hongya Cave at night from Qiansimen Bridge.jpg
Jonashtand
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Ciqikou Ancient Town
Old lanes and teahouses trace the atmosphere of a former riverside trading town.
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028 Sichuan-160811 28 (29868006911).jpg
Franco Pecchio from Milano, Italy
CC BY 2.0
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Dazu Rock Carvings (Dazu)
Cliffside Buddhist carvings combine religious narratives with remarkably detailed everyday scenes.
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Dazu 2007 685 full view.jpg
G41rn8
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Three Natural Bridges (Wulong)
Three vast natural stone bridges span a deep karst valley in Wulong.
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Wulongtianshengsanqiao.JPG
Brookqi
Public domain
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31 / Southwestern China

昆明

Kunming

Stone Forest (Shilin)
Dense limestone pillars create a maze of sharp-edged rock formations.
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Shilin, Yunnan 24740.jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Dianchi Lake
A broad plateau lake opens toward the Western Hills and Kunming’s lakeside promenades.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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正大河与金家河交汇入滇池口远眺西山 - panoramio (2).jpg
glxcn
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Green Lake Park
Tree-lined paths and small islands make this central lake a popular place for a stroll.
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Southeast part of Cuihu Park, Kunming (20240214122512).jpg
N509FZ
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Yunnan Nationalities Village
Village-style exhibits introduce the buildings and cultural traditions of Yunnan’s ethnic groups.
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云南民族村-入口牌坊.jpg
董辰兴
CC BY-SA 4.0
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32 / Southwestern China

大理

Dali

Dali Old Town
Old streets, city gates and views of Cangshan frame Dali’s historic town.
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大理古城 - 航拍 - 2024-10-13 02.jpg
瑞丽江的河水
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Erhai Lake
Lakeside villages and distant mountains surround this long plateau lake.
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Erhai lake, Yunnan, China.jpg
Ariel Steiner ( Asteiner )
CC BY 2.5
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Cangshan Mountain
Mountain trails and high ridges overlook Dali and the waters of Erhai.
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South Jade Cloud Road.JPG
Ishai Bar (Headrock)
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple
Three ancient pagodas stand beneath Cangshan, forming Dali’s best-known historic landmark.
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Three Pagodas of the Chongsheng Temple.jpg
Jackiejackie123123
CC BY-SA 4.0
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33 / Southwestern China

丽江

Lijiang

Lijiang Old Town
Stone lanes and waterways weave through a historic town shaped by Naxi culture.
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Lijiang - panoramio (6).jpg
Pavel Špindler
CC BY 3.0
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Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Snow-covered peaks rise dramatically above the Lijiang basin and alpine landscapes.
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Yulong xue shan.jpg
Evilbish
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Shuhe Ancient Town
Streams, bridges and old lanes preserve another historic settlement on the Tea Horse Road.
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20240503 Shuhe.jpg
Yumeto
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Black Dragon Pool
A spring-fed pool frames pavilions and, in clear weather, the distant snow mountain.
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Black Dragon Pool.jpg
Chris from Canada
CC BY 2.0
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Attraction sources

mz.yn.gov.cn ↗

34 / Southwestern China

贵阳

Guiyang

Jiaxiu Pavilion
A traditional tower stands over the Nanming River, linked to the banks by stone bridges.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Jiaxiu pavilion.jpg
Thehistorianisaac
CC0
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Qianling Mountain Park
Forest paths, a lake and Hongfu Temple create a green retreat close to the city center.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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黔灵山.jpg
維基小霸王
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Qingyan Ancient Town
Stone streets, gateways and courtyard houses preserve an old fortified town.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Qingyan Town.jpg
Harry Alverson
CC BY-SA 2.0
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Huaxi National Urban Wetland Park
River shallows, wetland vegetation and walking paths reveal a softer side of the plateau landscape.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
十里河滩 - Huaxi Wetland Park - 2015.07 - panoramio.jpg
rheins
CC BY 3.0
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Attraction sources

rb.gywb.cn ↗

35 / Northwestern China

兰州

Lanzhou

Zhongshan Bridge
An iron bridge spans the Yellow River below the slopes of White Pagoda Mountain.
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Lanzhou Zhongshan Qiao 2013.12.28 17-26-24.jpg
Zhangzhugang
CC BY-SA 3.0
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White Pagoda Mountain
Hillside paths and a white pagoda offer views over the Yellow River and central Lanzhou.
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Lanzhou from White Pagoda Park (10093739564).jpg
Gary Todd from Xinzheng, China
CC0
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Gansu Provincial Museum
Silk Road artifacts and archaeological collections introduce Gansu’s long role in cultural exchange.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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New Exhibition Building of the Gansu Provincial Museum.jpg
幽灵巴尼
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Yellow River Mother Sculpture
A mother-and-child sculpture beside the river symbolizes the Yellow River as a source of life.
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黄河母亲 - panoramio.jpg
jt Guan
CC BY 3.0
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City life · History & culture · Food & slow days

Attraction sources

www.gswbj.gov.cn ↗

36 / Northwestern China

敦煌

Dunhuang

Mogao Caves
Cave temples preserve Buddhist murals and sculpture along an ancient Silk Road corridor.
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Mogao Caves (54376969262).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake
A crescent-shaped spring lies among sweeping sand dunes just outside Dunhuang.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Crescent Lake from the Singing Sand Dunes (20230918101214).jpg
N509FZ
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Yumen Pass
An earthen gate ruin recalls the western frontier and caravan routes of the Han dynasty.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Dunhuang.yumenguan.jpg
Popolon
CC BY-SA 3.0
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Dunhuang Yardang Geopark
Wind-shaped ridges and rock towers create an austere desert landscape.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark 3.JPG
Yoshi Canopus
CC BY-SA 3.0
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37 / Northwestern China

西宁

Xining

Kumbum Monastery (Huangzhong)
Temple courtyards and ornate halls mark a major center of Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
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Kumbum Monastery in Amdo.jpg
Andreas Gruschke
CC BY 3.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Qinghai Provincial Museum
Exhibits trace Qinghai’s archaeology, regional history and cultural connections across the plateau.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
202606 Qinghai Provincial Museum 01.jpg
Jonashtand
CC BY-SA 4.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Dongguan Grand Mosque
A large mosque complex reflects the long history of Xining’s Muslim community.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Dongguan Mosque in Xining (2025).jpg
Michał Beim
CC BY 4.0
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Beichan Temple (Tulou Temple)
Temples and cave-like shrines sit against a steep red-earth hillside above the city.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Beishan Si Xining.jpg
User: (WT-shared) Pinkfluffybrick at wts wikivoyage
CC BY 3.0
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History & culture

Attraction sources

www.huangzhong.gov.cn ↗

38 / Northwestern China

银川

Yinchuan

Xixia Imperial Tombs
Earthen mausoleum mounds stand on an open plain beneath the Helan Mountains.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Xi Xia Imperial Tombs (54154641924).jpg
xiquinhosilva
CC BY 2.0
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Zhenbeibao Western Film Studios
Fortress walls and film sets recreate the atmosphere of northwest frontier towns.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
镇北堡西部影城.jpg
Yanxutong1215
CC BY-SA 4.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Helan Mountain Rock Art
Ancient images of people and animals are carved into rocks at the mountain’s edge.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
贺兰山岩画太阳神.jpg
霧島聖
CC BY-SA 4.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Shuidonggou (Lingwu)
Prehistoric archaeology and an arid frontier landscape meet in this heritage area.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Shuidonggou Great Wall (水洞沟) - panoramio - danmairen.jpg
danmairen
CC BY-SA 3.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.

History & culture · Nature & scenery

Attraction sources

whhlyt.nx.gov.cn ↗

39 / Northwestern China

乌鲁木齐

Urumqi

Xinjiang Museum
Archaeological collections reveal Xinjiang’s oasis cultures and Silk Road connections.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
新疆博物馆全景（2021）.jpg
HaziiDozen
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Market buildings and a tall landmark tower bring together shopping and regional architectural motifs.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Bazaar day time.jpg
Leeee870101
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Red Hill Park
A hilltop pagoda and park paths provide a wide outlook over Urumqi.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Hong Shan.jpg
Ccyber5 at English Wikipedia
CC BY-SA 3.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Shuimogou Park
Streams and wooded paths follow a green valley on the city’s northeastern side.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
水磨沟风景区大门.jpg
HaziiDozen
CC BY-SA 4.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.

History & culture · City life

Attraction sources

www.wlmq.gov.cn ↗

40 / Northwestern China

吐鲁番

Turpan

Jiaohe Ruins
Earthen streets and building remains spread across a steep-sided plateau above two river valleys.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Turpan-jiaohe-ruinas-d28.jpg
Colegota
CC BY-SA 2.5 es
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Gaochang Ruins
Ruined walls and religious buildings recall a major Silk Road oasis city.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Turpan-gaochang-d10.jpg
Colegota
CC BY-SA 2.5 es
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Grape Valley
Vine-covered paths and irrigated gardens form a green contrast to Turpan’s dry surroundings.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
Valley of Grapes Turpan (10).jpg
Radosław Botev
CC BY 3.0 pl
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.
Karez Folk Custom Garden
Exhibits explain how underground water channels support life and farming in an arid oasis.
AI-enhanced image · Photo credits
Created with Codex from the reference photo below. Visitors were removed; lighting and composition were adjusted.
坎儿井民俗园.jpg
HaziiDozen
CC BY-SA 4.0
AI-modified image. Reuse follows the source terms linked above.

History & culture · Nature & scenery

Attraction sources

A route to make your own

One week, or a little longer.

All itineraries

7 days

Two cities, a first connection

Beijing → Xi’an

10 days

The classic first visit

Beijing → Xi’an → Shanghai

14 days

Add pandas and slower afternoons

Beijing → Xi’an → Chengdu → Shanghai

Before your suitcase

The practical things,
all in one place.

Read the arrival checklist

Entry & your passportCheck the rules for your nationality and route.
Payments & connectivityPrepare a payment app, a backup card and mobile data.
Trains, hotels & ticketsUse the right station, the right ID and a confirmed reservation.

A little planning.A whole new world.

The right week changes the trip.

Cities & main attractions

Beijing

Forbidden City

Badaling Great Wall

Summer Palace

Temple of Heaven

Shanghai

The Bund

Yuyuan Garden

Oriental Pearl Tower

Shanghai Museum

Xi’an

Terracotta Army

Xi’an City Wall

Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Shaanxi History Museum

Chengdu

Chengdu Panda Base

Wuhou Shrine

Du Fu Thatched Cottage

Dujiangyan Irrigation System

Guilin

Li River

Elephant Trunk Hill

Yulong River (Yangshuo)

Longji Rice Terraces (Longsheng)

Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Tianmen Mountain

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Baofeng Lake

Tianjin

Five Great Avenues

Ancient Culture Street

Tianjin Eye

Italian Style Town

Datong

Yungang Grottoes

Huayan Temple

Hanging Temple (Hunyuan)

Nine-Dragon Wall

Chengde

Chengde Mountain Resort

Puning Temple

Putuo Zongcheng Temple

Qingchui Peak

Harbin

Central Street

Saint Sophia Cathedral

Sun Island

Harbin Ice and Snow World (winter ice sculptures)

Shenyang

Shenyang Imperial Palace

Zhaoling Tomb (Beiling Park)

Marshal Zhang’s Mansion

Fuling Tomb (Dongling Park)

Dalian

Xinghai Square

Golden Pebble Beach

Tiger Beach Ocean Park

Bangchuidao Scenic Area

Nanjing

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum

Confucius Temple & Qinhuai River

Xuanwu Lake

Suzhou

Humble Administrator’s Garden

Lingering Garden

Tiger Hill

Pingjiang Road

Hangzhou

West Lake

Lingyin Temple

Xixi National Wetland Park

Liangzhu Archaeological Site Park

Huangshan

Mount Huangshan

A little planning.
A whole new world.