Shaanxi Province

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An astonishing subterranean archaeological complex housing thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, chariots, and horses guarding the tomb of China's first emperor. It offers an unforgettable window into the military might and burial customs of the Qin Dynasty.

Access. Reached from Xi'an via dedicated tourist buses or private transport on a half-day trip.

Notes. Arrive early to beat the large tour groups inside the vast exhibition pits.

Macau

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A UNESCO World Heritage district showcasing a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese architectural styles. Visitors wander through cobblestone squares, colonial plazas, and ancient Chinese temples that reflect centuries of cross-cultural heritage.

Access. Easily reached on foot from ferry terminals or major casino resorts via complimentary shuttle buses.

Notes. Can be crowded on weekends and holidays; wear comfortable walking shoes for the hilly streets.

Sichuan

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A monumental 71-meter-tall stone statue carved out of a cliff face in Sichuan province, overlooking the confluence of three rivers. Built during the Tang Dynasty, it is the largest stone Buddha in the world and an awe-inspiring feat of ancient engineering.

Access. Reached from Chengdu via a high-speed train to Leshan station, followed by a short local bus or taxi.

Notes. Visitors can view the statue from steep cliffside walking paths or via river tour boats.

Guangxi

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A breathtaking natural region of dramatic limestone karst peaks, winding emerald rivers, and traditional rural fishing villages. Cruising down the river offers classic postcard views that have inspired Chinese painters and poets for centuries.

Access. Accessible via flights or high-speed rail to Guilin, followed by river cruises or bamboo raft excursions toward Yangshuo.

Notes. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for scenic boat trips.

Guangxi

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Stunning agricultural terraces sculpted into the steep green mountainsides by local Zhuang and Yao ethnic communities, often poetically referred to as the 'Dragon's Backbone'. The cascading tiers shift colors dramatically across the farming seasons.

Access. Reached via a scenic mountain drive from Guilin, typically booked as a day trip or overnight stay in local wooden lodges.

Notes. The footpaths between terraces can be steep and muddy after rain.

Shanxi

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An exceptionally well-preserved Han Chinese walled city dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its intact defensive ramparts, traditional courtyard houses, and ancient financial institutions offer a rare step back into imperial-era urban life.

Access. Conveniently accessed via high-speed train to Pingyao Gucheng station, followed by a short electric cart or taxi ride.

Notes. Vehicles are banned inside the ancient town center, making it wonderfully walkable.

Xizang

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The majestic former winter palace of the Dalai Lions, perched high above the Lhasa valley against a backdrop of dramatic Himalayan peaks. Its towering red and white palaces contain thousands of rooms filled with priceless Tibetan Buddhist art and shrines.

Access. Located in Lhasa, Tibet; reached via flights or the Qinghai-Tibet railway, with mandatory tour permits required.

Notes. High altitude requires careful acclimatization; strict daily visitor quotas apply.

Shanghai

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Shanghai's famous waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, lined with grand colonial-era European classical and art deco buildings. Across the river rises the futuristic skyline of Pudong, creating a striking visual contrast between old and new China.

Access. Centrally located in Shanghai, directly accessible via Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road station.

Notes. Particularly dazzling at night when the historic buildings and futuristic skyscrapers are fully illuminated.

Yanqing District

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One of the most famous and best-preserved sections of the Ming-era fortifications, winding dramatically across rugged mountain ridges north of Beijing. Visitors flock here to climb its ancient stone watchtowers and take in sweeping panoramic vistas of the surrounding ramparts.

Access. Readily reached from Beijing via high-speed train, tour buses, or private car for a convenient day trip.

Notes. Extremely crowded during peak holiday seasons; wear sturdy walking shoes for steep, uneven stairs.

Beijing

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A vast masterwork of Chinese landscape garden design centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill in Beijing. Its ornate pavilions, long painted corridors, and marble boat offer a serene royal retreat showcasing classical imperial aesthetics.

Access. Easily accessible via Beijing Subway Line 4 directly to the Beigongmen station.

Notes. Allow at least a half-day to properly explore the expansive lakeside grounds and historic temples.

Hong Kong

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This massive bronze statue of Buddha sits serenely atop a mountain peak, surrounded by the lush green landscape of Lantau Island. Visitors climb the 268 steps to reach the base, where they can explore the adjacent Po Lin Monastery.

Access. Reach via the Ngong Ping 360 cable car from Tung Chung, which provides spectacular aerial views of the island.

Notes. The site is a major religious destination; dress modestly and be prepared for potential queues for the cable car on weekends.

Hong Kong

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Rising high above the city, Victoria Peak offers the most iconic panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline and Victoria Harbour. It is the premier vantage point for witnessing the city's transition from daylight to its famous neon-lit nightscape.

Access. Accessible via the historic Peak Tram from Central or by bus/taxi from the city center.

Notes. Expect significant crowds at the viewing platforms, especially during sunset; consider visiting on a clear day for the best visibility.

Zhejiang

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A celebrated cultural landscape and freshwater lake framed by weeping willows, arched stone bridges, historic pagodas, and lush hills. It has served as a muse for Chinese landscape poets and garden designers for over a thousand years.

Access. Centrally located in Hangzhou, easily reached by high-speed rail from Shanghai and local metro lines.

Notes. Best explored on foot, by bicycle, or via traditional wooden paddle boats.

Hunan

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A surreal landscape of towering quartz-sandstone pillars piercing through misty clouds, famous for inspiring the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the film Avatar. Glass elevators, high-altitude walkways, and cable cars provide thrilling access to the dramatic lookouts.

Access. Reached via Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport or local rail, followed by short shuttle buses to the park gates.

Notes. Wear comfortable non-slip hiking shoes; expect misty weather that adds an ethereal atmosphere.