Visit These 8 Most Beautiful Places In China + Bonus Location

In addition to the world-famous Great Wall, China has many interesting and wonderful things to experience when traveling or planning a trip to China. 

Get ready to see the 8 most beautiful places in China and their features that they have to offer.

China

China has a lot of places besides its iconic Great Wall. This list has a mix of traditions and modernity for travelers. 

Let's look at the most beautiful places in China for your trip.

1. Explore the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park | National Parks

Located in the Hunan Province of China, this national forest park has breathtaking scenery you must see in person. With its stunning natural landscapes, towering sandstone pillars, and lush forests, this park offers various hiking trails, glass bridges, and observation platforms for visitors to enjoy its unique beauty.

Let's see all its exceptional aspects:

• Unique Natural Landscape: The photo above shows its striking and otherworldly landscape with sandstone pillars and peaks that rise dramatically from the ground. It is often shrouded in mist, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere.

• Inspiration for Avatar: You're not wrong if this place looks familiar. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park's pillars inspire the floating "Hallelujah Mountains" in "Avatar." Visit this place for a first-hand movie-like experience.

• Glass Bridge and Elevator: The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is one of the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridges offering a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

• Hiking and Exploration: As a national park, it offers numerous trails and hiking paths for visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere.

• Photography Paradise: This park offers countless photo opportunities due to its breathtaking landscape. Whether it's the mist-shrouded peaks, the glass bridge, or the winding trails, every corner is a potential masterpiece.

• Cultural and Historical Significance: This area is home to the indigenous Tujia people, so visitors can learn about their culture and traditions. The park features cultural performances, traditional architecture, and Tujia folklore.

• World Heritage Site: As part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area, UNESCO World Heritage Site recognizes this park's significance as a natural wonder and is part of a protected area for conservation.

2. Hike up Mount Huangshan

Huangshan Mountain | Viator

Located in Anhui Province, Mount Huangshan, also known as Yellow Mountain, is an iconic destination for everyone who wants inspiration.

Here are some key features of Mount Huangshan:

• Pine Trees and Sea of Clouds: Mount Huangshan has jagged granite pine tree peaks that rise above the clouds, creating a surreal and almost mythical landscape. Known as the "Sea of Clouds," it is a mesmerizing phenomenon that blankets the valleys below and adds to the mystical charm.

• Hot Springs and Tranquil Respite: Mount Huangshan offers natural hot springs providing a serene escape for visitors—a perfect way to wind down after a day of hiking.

• Literary and Cultural Significance: Mount Huangshan has held a significant role in Chinese literature and art. It is an inspiration for poems, paintings, and even operas. The UNESCO-listed Xidi and Hongcun ancient villages showcase traditional local culture and history.

• Preservation of Natural Beauty: These yellow mountains' trails wind through the forest, streams, and dynamic rock formations. With such a unique ecosystem, it has been recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a protected area in China.

Visiting Mount Huangshan is an opportunity to enter a realm of unparalleled natural beauty, where ancient landscapes meld harmoniously with the present.

3. Relax around the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area | Peak Visor

Nestled in the heart of Yunnan Province, China's Jade Dragon Snow Mountain emerges as a true spectacle of nature's grandeur. The name evokes an image of pristine beauty and mystical allure.

Let's take a look at its key highlights.

• A Panorama of Peaks: This mountain range has an array of awe-inspiring peaks that seem to touch the heavens. The highest peak, Shanzidou, stands at 5,596 meters, which can captivate all who gaze upon it.

• Glacial Grandeur: Many glaciers ascend down the mountainside, a sight to behold. These frozen rivers of ice, millennia in the making, reflect sunlight in a breathtaking display. Visitors can explore some of these glaciers and even experience the wonder of snow in a subtropical region.

• Flora and Fauna Wonderland: This place has a diverse ecosystem, from verdant forests to alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers. This mountain range is home to a rich plant and animal life. Some rare species, including the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, call this place home.

• Glistening Blue Lakes: Continuing on the nature theme, this place houses a pristine, alpine lake that mirrors the sky above and adds an element of tranquility to the rugged landscape. The crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings provide an ideal setting for quiet contemplation.

• Cultural Significance: The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain holds immense cultural significance for the local Naxi people. The mountain is considered sacred, and visitors can learn about the Naxi culture, customs, and way of life through cultural performances, traditional architecture, and local interactions.

• Impressive Cable Car Journey: The mountain's cable car ride offers a unique perspective of its grandeur. As you ascend, the scenery unfolds dramatically, revealing layers of natural beauty and allowing you to appreciate the mountain's scale truly.

All these factors, combined with the mountain's grandeur and significant role in local culture and geography, contribute to its reputation as one of China's most beautiful places to visit.

4. Tour around Guilin City 

As part of China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin is in southern China and is a must-visit list of backpackers. Massive rivers, natural scenery, and unique landscapes surround the city center.

Li River wrapping around Guilin city | Wikimedia Commons

Let's take a look at the highlights:

• Karst Landscapes: Guilin is known for its karst area with towering limestone peaks and hills, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. You can cruise down the river for a breathtaking ride.

• Li River: The Li River or Li Jiang flows through Guilin and is famous for its scenic cruises. The river is surrounded by karst mountains, creating a breathtaking backdrop depicted in many traditional Chinese paintings.

• Reed Flute Cave: This limestone cave is adorned with a stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical underground experience.

• Elephant Trunk Hill: A prominent landmark in Guilin, this hill resembles an elephant taking a drink from the Li River. It's an iconic symbol of the city's natural beauty.

• Moon Hill: A unique hill with a natural peak arch resembling a crescent moon. It's a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.

To make the best of your time here, take a boat down the Li River that connects Guilin City and Yangshuo Town. You can book a guided tour of the city to explore the surrounding countryside. If you are an adventure enthusiast, rent a motorbike and explore this land yourself.

5. Walk around The Forbidden City

The world-famous Forbidden City holds immense historical and cultural significance as it was one of the palaces of 24 Chinese kings from the Qing to Ming dynasties (1420-1911).

Forbidden City | China Highlights 

Here are some key features to focus on:

• Architectural Grandeur: The Forbidden City is a masterpiece of imperial Chinese architecture. The complex comprises over 980 surviving buildings with intricate details, elegant roofs, and stunning courtyards. The architecture showcases traditional Chinese design and meticulous craftsmanship.

• Symmetry and Balance: The layout of the Forbidden City is meticulously planned and follows the principles of Feng Shui. Its symmetrical arrangement of buildings, courtyards, and gates reflects a sense of harmony and balance, creating a visually pleasing environment.

• Cultural Symbolism: The Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for nearly 500 years, from the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty. Its architectural features and design elements are rich in symbolism, representing the emperor's supreme power and authority.

• Historical Significance: As the imperial palace, the Forbidden City witnessed numerous historical events and royal ceremonies deeply intertwined with Chinese history.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Forbidden City is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is recognized for its outstanding universal value as a well-preserved imperial palace complex and a representation of traditional Chinese architecture.

• Visitor Experience: The Forbidden City is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its many halls, chambers, and courtyards. Its size and historical significance provide an immersive experience that transports visitors to a bygone era.

The Forbidden City is open to the public, so visitors can explore its halls, chambers, and courtyards, making it one of the country's most captivating and beautiful landmarks.

6. Relax in Sanya

Linchunling Forest Park in Sanya | Inf.news

Visit the southernmost part of Hainan province, China which is Sanya! Swim, eat seafood, and climb mountains here where the weather is pleasant year round. Due to due its stunning natural landscapes and tropical charm, it is definaely considered one of the most beautiful places in China.

So let's see why:

1. Breathtaking Beaches: The beaches at Sanya have white glistening sand and clear turquoise waters. Their beaches are also home to diverse coral reefs and marine life, making it a popular spot to snorkel and dive.

2. Tropical Climate: Sanya has a tropical climate year-round. With its warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, lush vegetation, rows of coconut palm trees, and vibrant flowers add to the area's natural beauty.

3. Island hop: Visit Wuzhizhou Island for water sports and relaxation. It has crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a range of activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and water skiing. Go to Hainan Island for lush landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unique cultural heritage.

4. Tons of parks to visit: Visit Luhuitou Park for a panoramic view of Sanya and the South China Sea, and you can watch the sunrise and sunset. You can go to Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park to see the rich biodiversity of Sanya through dense rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

5. Cultural Diversity: Sanya's is home to a harmonious blend of cultures, including the local Li and Miao ethnic groups. You also can visit the Nanshan Temple and the majestic Guanyin Statue.

So if you're in the southern part of China, check out Sanya for relaxation and adventure.

7. Enjoy the Panda Conservation Park Bifengxia

Caretakers holding small pandas at the Panda Conservation Park Bifengxia | Xinhua News

Probably not one of the most beautiful places you think, but this place has its own unique beauty. Located in the Sichuan province of China, this conservation park and research breed and care for giant pandas.

Let's see what this place has to offer:

1. Panda Enclosures: The center does its best to recreate bamboo forests and provide spacious areas for the pandas to roam and play around. Some visitors can interact with the pandas, such as preparing their food. There's also a panda nursery to watch young and playful pandas.

2. Connection to Nature: This center is in picturesque rolling hills and lush green forests with rivers, waterfalls, and mountain ranges. As an animal center, visitors can also connect with nature and wildlife.

3. Conservation Efforts: As a conservation center, it plays a crucial role in the conservation of giant pandas to help ensure the survival of this endangered species. The dedication to panda conservation adds a deeper layer of beauty to the place.

4. Educational Significance: The center has plenty of educational programs and exhibits to inform visitors about pandas and raise awareness about wildlife conservation.

The Bifengxia Panda Center's unique charm lies in its connection to nature and dedication to protect and care for the pandas.

8. Take a rain to Tibet

You can depart from Beijing and take a train to reach the Tibetan capital Lhasa. A great journey to take where you pass through the Chaka salt lake, the snow-capped mountains of the Kunlun mountain range, and the vast Changthang lawn during this 41-hour ride.

Don't worry about the 41-hour ride. Let's see what you can experience here:

1. Spectacular landscapes and natural wonders: This train journey lets you experience breathtaking landscapes through the Tibetan Plateau with panoramic views of vast grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and serene lakes. It also passes through the Changthang plateau, known for its expansive grasslands and unique wildlife.

2. Slow and comfortable: As a long journey, this ride lets you gradually absorb the changing landscapes and cultures as you travel to your destination. The train is designed for comfort, offering amenities that ensure a pleasant journey. It has dining cars, comfortable seating, and sleeping accommodations, making the trip enjoyable.

3. Cultural Exploration: During the journey to Lhasa, you'll see small Tibetan villages, monasteries, and traditional nomadic settlements. It provides insights into the local life and cultural heritage.

4. Gateway to Lhasa: The train journey ends at Lhasa, where the iconic Potala Palace, a symbol of Tibetan culture and spirituality, 'll welcome you. This majestic palace adds a grand finale to the visual journey.

While the train ride might not be a traditional "place," it offers an extraordinary travel experience that traverses some of the world's most beautiful and captivating landscapes. It's a journey that combines the joy of travel with a deep appreciation for nature, culture, and the allure of the Tibetan Plateau.

Bonus:

9. A night walk at the Temple Street Night Market

Temple Street Night Market | Discover Hong Kong

While not the "most beautiful place" and not "in China," the Temple Street Night Market in Hong Kong has a unique charm and cultural significance.

The night market comes alive in the evening with its bustling streets lined with stalls selling various goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and local crafts. The atmosphere is lively and energetic. The street stalls allow you to try as much delicious food as possible and watch fun street performances.

So while the Temple Street Night Market is not defined by traditional beauty, its urban energy, cultural richness, and the experience it offers to locals and tourists contribute to its special place within the city's landscape.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit China without knowing Chinese?

Yes, you can! You can travel around in a Chinese-speaking country without knowing Chinese. In major cities, you can find English at major places and stations.

In closing

What do you think of these 8 most beautiful places in China and our bonus location? Based on our China travel destinations, have you decided which place to visit first?

Wherever you decide, we hope you will have the utmost memorable experiences. Knowing some Chinese key phrases and words will help you move around without much worry.