Top Attractions
in China

A shortlist of China’s most iconic places for first-time visitors, from ancient history to natural scenery and city landmarks.

Quick answer

Start with a few iconic places rather than trying to see everything. Choose attractions by city, travel time, and interest type, then check booking rules before adding them to your itinerary.

Great Wall (Mutianyu)

Beijing

Most visitor-friendly Great Wall section.

Best for: First trip / History / Scenic views

1 dayBook ahead

Forbidden City

Beijing

China’s top imperial palace complex.

Best for: History / Culture / First trip

4 hoursBook ahead

Terracotta Army

Xi'an

2,000-year-old army guarding the tomb of China's first emperor

Best for: History / Ancient China / First trip

3 hoursBook ahead

Avatar Mountains (Yuanjiajie)

Zhangjiajie

the sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar

Best for: Nature / Photography / Hiking

3 hoursNature lover’s pick

Li River Cruise

Guilin

Scenic cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo.

Best for: Nature / Relaxed travel / Scenery

Half dayBook ahead

Chengdu Panda Base

Chengdu

best place to see giant pandas

Best for: Families / Animals / Easy visit

3 hoursFamily-friendly

The Bund

Shanghai

the most classic view

Best for: City views / Night views / First trip

1 hoursCity classic

Victoria Peak

Hong Kong

the best panoramic skyline view of Hong Kong

Best for: City views / Photography / Skyline

2 hoursCity classic

West Lake

Hangzhou

Famous lake with temples and gardens.

Best for: Relaxed travel / Scenery / Families

1 dayFamily-friendly

Mogao Caves

Dunhuang

UNESCO Buddhist cave art site on the Silk Road (must-book tickets).

Best for: History / Buddhist art / Culture

3.5 hoursBook ahead

Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park

Jiuzhaigou

UNESCO nature reserve famous for turquoise lakes and waterfalls

Best for: Nature / Lakes / Photography