12 Most Beautiful Places in China to Visit (You Won’t Believe #4)

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The first time I stood on the Great Wall, I couldn’t stop grinning like an idiot. Photos don’t prepare you for how insane it is to see this ancient fortress snake across mountains until it disappears into the clouds. China hit me like a freight train – in the best possible way.

Every trip here has blown my mind in new ways. From watching the sunrise paint Zhangjiajie’s towers in gold to getting lost in the chaos of Shanghai’s streets, these are the most beautiful places to visit in China that left me speechless. Trust me, even if you think you know what to expect, this country will surprise you at every turn!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to China

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Chinese adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Shanghai for just $390 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by eating at local hole-in-the-wall restaurants and food streets. Most meals at these spots cost under $5 for generous portions, and they’re where you’ll find the most authentic food. Skip the tourist restaurants – they’re often triple the price!
• Transport: Get a transportation card for your city (like Shanghai’s Public Transportation Card or Beijing’s Yikatong). These work across metros, buses, and even taxis in some cities. For intercity travel, book high-speed rail tickets in advance through the China Rail app. This combination saved me hundreds of yuan on each trip.

China’s major cities can be surprisingly expensive these days. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this fascinating country for much less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in China:

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in China

Ready to dive into all the most beautiful locations in China? As mentioned earlier, there’s something for everyone in this part of Asia. So keep reading to discover the incredible scenery in China.

Are you seeking the allure of city and cultural attractions? Or would you prefer a tranquil retreat in nature? Whatever your itinerary involves, China can meet your needs. Here’s all the prime spots in China you should be aware of:

1. The Great Wall of China

• 📍 Location: Northern China, stretching from Hebei to Gansu
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏯, epic hikers 🥾, first-time visitors 🇨🇳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Mutianyu section, catching sunrise at Jinshanling, exploring watchtowers at Simatai
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to October for cooler, clear days 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Brickyard at Mutianyu – Rustic boutique lodge with mountain views near the wall

The Great Wall of China lives up to the hype. When you walk along its stone paths, you get why it’s one of the most iconic places on the planet. It winds across steep ridges, with watchtowers spaced out like checkpoints through time.

Mutianyu is a great spot if you want easy access and nice views without huge crowds. Jinshanling is a better fit if you’re up for a hike and want more of the wild, untouched vibe. Either way, expect lots of steps and wide-open landscapes.

The best time to go is early morning, when the air is crisp and the light hits just right. You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate it. Whether you’re hiking for the view or just standing still to take it all in, it’s the kind of place that sticks with you.

2. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

• 📍 Location: Hunan Province, southern China
• 🏆 Best For: Adventure lovers 🧗, nature photographers 📷, Avatar fans 🎥
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, riding the Bailong Elevator, exploring Yuanjiajie’s pillar peaks
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to November for good weather and misty views 🌫️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pullman Zhangjiajie Hotel – Comfortable, central base near the park entrance

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park looks like a fantasy world made real. Towering sandstone pillars rise from the forest floor, often wrapped in mist that gives the whole place a dreamlike feel. It’s easy to see why it inspired the floating mountains in Avatar.

The Bailong Elevator is a wild ride with glass walls, open views, and a vertical lift up one of the cliffs. From there, you can hike trails through Yuanjiajie, home to the iconic “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.” The views keep changing as the clouds move through the peaks.

If you’re into heights, don’t skip the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge. It stretches over a canyon and gives you full sky-and-cliff views under your feet. The park is massive, so give yourself at least two full days. Every turn reveals something new, and no photo really captures how unreal it feels to stand there.

3. Li River & Yangshuo

• 📍 Location: Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China
• 🏆 Best For: Landscape lovers 🌄, slow travelers 🚲, peaceful getaways 🍃
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising the Li River, biking through Yangshuo’s countryside, hiking Moon Hill
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to October for clear skies and green scenery 🌾
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Yangshuo Mountain Retreat – Quiet riverside hotel surrounded by karst peaks

The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is one of the most scenic rides in China. Limestone karst peaks rise straight from the water, with tiny villages and fishermen drifting past on bamboo rafts. It feels peaceful but surreal, like you’re inside a painting.

Once you arrive in Yangshuo, things slow down even more. Rent a bike and cruise through backroads lined with rice paddies, water buffalo, and karst cliffs towering overhead. The roads are mostly flat, which makes it perfect for a chill afternoon ride.

There’s also great hiking nearby, including Moon Hill, where a short climb gives you wide views of the whole valley. Nights in Yangshuo are just as chill thanks to outdoor cafés, live music, and river breeze. This place is ideal if you want a break from the cities and a real taste of countryside life in China.

• Read next: Best 3-Day Yangtze River Cruise

4. The Forbidden City

• 📍 Location: Beijing, northern China
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 📚, culture fans 🎎, architecture geeks 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through the Meridian Gate, exploring the Hall of Supreme Harmony, strolling the Imperial Garden
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May or September to October for mild, less crowded days 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kelly’s Courtyard Hotel – Traditional courtyard stay within walking distance of the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is massive. It’s not just one palace, but nearly 1,000 buildings packed into the heart of Beijing. Walking through the red gates feels like entering another world, where emperors ruled and rituals played out for centuries.

The Hall of Supreme Harmony is one of the biggest draws, with gold detailing, sweeping roofs, and wide stone courtyards. But don’t skip the smaller paths. Some of the coolest areas are tucked away, including quiet corridors and gardens with ancient pines and dragon carvings.

If you’re into history, you could spend hours here just soaking up the details. If not, the vibe alone is worth the visit. Go early to beat the crowds and bring water because, trust me, you’ll be walking a lot. The Forbidden City is more than a museum. It’s a time capsule, and stepping inside is like flipping back through centuries of Chinese royalty.

5. The Terracotta Army

• 📍 Location: Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
• 🏆 Best For: Ancient history buffs 🗿, archaeology fans 🧱, curious travelers 👀
• 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing Pit 1 up close, viewing the bronze chariots, exploring the Qin Shi Huang museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November for cooler weather and fewer crowds 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Eastern House Boutique Hotel – Modern, comfy hotel located near Xi’an’s main attractions

The Terracotta Army is one of China’s most legendary discoveries. Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots were buried underground to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. Each one looks different, from facial expressions to armor.

Pit 1 is the biggest and most dramatic. Rows of warriors stand in formation, and the sheer scale is hard to take in all at once. You can also visit Pit 2 and Pit 3, which show archers, cavalry, and command figures still being uncovered.

It’s not just about statues. The site includes a museum that adds context with maps, weapons, and artifacts. If you’re into ancient civilizations or just want to see something that feels straight out of a movie, this spot is unmissable. The whole place feels frozen in time, and somehow, still full of energy.

6. Jiuzhaigou Valley

• 📍 Location: Sichuan Province, southwestern China
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, hikers 🥾, fall foliage fans 🍁
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Five Flower Lake, hiking to Nuorilang Waterfall, exploring mirror-clear alpine lakes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October for peak fall colors or May for wildflowers 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Jiuzhai Resort Hotel – Peaceful mountain hotel close to the park entrance

Jiuzhaigou Valley feels like something out of a fairytale. Picture bright blue lakes, layered waterfalls, and mountain forests that change colors with the season. It’s one of China’s most famous national parks, and it absolutely lives up to the photos.

Five Flower Lake is the star here, shimmering turquoise with submerged tree trunks you can see clearly through the water. Trails wind past waterfalls like Nuorilang, and wooden walkways make it easy to explore the scenic spots without getting off track.

In autumn, the forests explode with color, but spring is beautiful too with wildflowers and crisp air. Be ready for high elevation, so take it slow if you’re not used to mountain travel. Jiuzhaigou isn’t just for hiking, it’s a place to slow down, unplug, and really take in nature’s colors and calm. Every corner feels like a perfect screensaver moment.

7. The Yellow Mountains (Huangshan)

• 📍 Location: Anhui Province, eastern China
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, sunrise chasers 🌄, landscape photographers 📷
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Lotus Peak, watching sunrise at Bright Summit, spotting twisted pine trees in the mist
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to November for hiking and clear views ⛰️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Xihai Hotel Huangshan – Scenic mountain lodge with easy access to sunrise trails

The Yellow Mountains offer one of the most dramatic landscapes in China. Granite peaks cut through low-lying clouds, pine trees grow out of cliffs, and narrow stone paths wind through the mist. It’s the kind of place where every corner looks like a painting.

Bright Summit is a favorite for sunrise. The light spreads across the peaks, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a sea of clouds beneath you. The hike to Lotus Peak is tougher but rewards you with panoramic views from one of the park’s highest points.

Even casual hikers can enjoy it here. Cable cars get you close to the action, and the trails are well-maintained. Just make sure to bring layers since temperatures drop fast at higher elevations. Whether you’re here for photos or the peaceful vibe, Huangshan delivers something unforgettable with every step.

8. Lhasa, Tibet

• 📍 Location: Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region
• 🏆 Best For: Spiritual travelers 🕉️, culture seekers 🎎, high-altitude explorers 🏔️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Barkhor Street, visiting Jokhang Temple, watching monks debate at Sera Monastery
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for clear skies and accessible roads 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Shambhala Palace – Traditional Tibetan-style hotel tucked in the old city

Lhasa feels completely different from anywhere else in China. Tucked high in the Himalayas, it blends dramatic scenery with deep spiritual energy. Prayer flags ripple in the wind, and the streets are lined with pilgrims spinning prayer wheels as they circle ancient temples.

Barkhor Street is the heart of the old city. It’s packed with markets, incense, and energy. You can walk the full circuit with locals or grab street food and people-watch from a café window. The nearby Jokhang Temple is considered the most sacred in Tibet, with golden rooftops and dim, candle-lit halls.

Lhasa is a great place to slow down and take everything in. The altitude is no joke, so give yourself time to adjust. If you’re up for something different that combines culture, religion, and stunning views, Lhasa is the kind of trip that stays with you.

9. Potala Palace, Lhasa

• 📍 Location: Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture lovers 🏯, photographers 📷, Buddhist history fans 📜
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing to the Red Palace, viewing ancient murals, overlooking Lhasa from the rooftop
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for sunny days and great visibility ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: House of Shambhala – Cozy boutique stay near the palace and old town streets
  

Potala Palace dominates Lhasa’s skyline. Perched on Red Hill, it’s massive, colorful, and filled with centuries of Tibetan history. Once the home of the Dalai Lama, it’s now a museum that shows off everything from meditation rooms to golden tombs.

The climb up the white steps is no joke, especially at this altitude, but the view from the top is worth it. Inside, the Red Palace is packed with statues, murals, scriptures, and ancient relics. The air smells like incense, and every hallway feels like a passage through time.

Tickets often sell out fast, so it’s smart to book in advance. Be respectful as this place still holds huge religious importance. It’s not just a tourist spot, it’s a living symbol of Tibetan identity. If you’re in Lhasa, seeing the Potala up close is something you’ll remember for a long time.

10. West Lake, Hangzhou

• 📍 Location: Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
• 🏆 Best For: Romantic travelers 💕, slow explorers 🚶, culture fans 🎐
• 📸 Top Experiences: Boating across West Lake, walking the Su Causeway, viewing Three Pools Mirroring the Moon
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November for flowers and calm weather 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Midtown Shangri-La Hangzhou – Elegant stay close to the lake with garden views
  

West Lake in Hangzhou has a peaceful energy that pulls you in. The calm water reflects arched bridges and willow trees, while distant pagodas peek through the morning mist. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, walk without a plan, and just take it all in.

Su Causeway is ideal for biking or strolling, especially during sunrise when the lake glows gold. A short boat ride will get you to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, one of the lake’s most famous scenic spots.

You’ll also find teahouses, gardens, and stone paths that lead into quieter corners of the park. It’s easy to see why poets and painters have been obsessed with this view for centuries. West Lake blends nature with tradition in a way that feels relaxed but deeply layered. If you’re into low-key travel days, this is a perfect stop.

11. The Karst Mountains of Guilin

• 📍 Location: Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
• 🏆 Best For: Scenic seekers 📸, boat cruisers 🚤, peaceful nature fans 🍃
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising the Li River, visiting Reed Flute Cave, biking around Yulong River
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for green hills and river access 🌦️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Yangshuo River Lodge – Quiet riverside hotel with mountain views and bike rentals

The Karst Mountains of Guilin don’t look real. These limestone peaks shoot straight up from rice fields and rivers, making the whole place feel like a painting. Cruising the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo is a must. Every bend reveals a new angle of misty cliffs and local fishermen casting nets from bamboo rafts.

When you’re not on the water, grab a bike and explore the countryside near Yulong River. It’s quiet, flat, and super photogenic. You’ll pass water buffalo, old villages, and small bridges that feel like they’ve been frozen in time.

Reed Flute Cave is also worth a visit, especially if you’re into weird rock formations and colorful lights. Guilin has a slower pace than China’s big cities, which makes it perfect for relaxing in nature while still feeling surrounded by something extraordinary.

12. Shanghai’s The Bund

• 📍 Location: Huangpu District, Shanghai
• 🏆 Best For: Cityscape lovers 🌆, architecture fans 🏙️, first-time visitors 📍
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking along the waterfront, viewing the skyline at night, exploring historic buildings
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May or October to November for cooler, clear evenings 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fairmont Peace Hotel – Iconic art deco hotel located right on the Bund

The Bund is where Shanghai shows off. On one side, you’ve got rows of colonial buildings with old-school charm. On the other, the Pudong skyline rises with futuristic towers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Seeing both together in one place makes the city feel like a time machine.

The best way to experience it is on foot, especially at sunset when the lights start flickering on. Grab snacks or a bubble tea and take your time walking the promenade. The vibe is lively but relaxed, with street performers, couples, and locals all blending into the scene.

If you cross the river by ferry or take a rooftop elevator nearby, you’ll get an even better skyline view. The Bund is one of those places that’s simple but unforgettable. It captures both sides of Shanghai—historic and high-tech—without needing to say a word.

• Read next: Top Things to See in Shanghai

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in China

Looking to enhance your knowledge about the most scenic spots in China? Here are some frequent questions I receive about the best Chinese attractions and activities.

What is the best time to visit China?

China is a vast country with diverse climates, so the best time to visit can depend on the region you’re interested in. Generally, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are considered the best times to visit. During these periods, the weather is usually mild and pleasant.

Do I need a visa to visit China?

Yes, most foreign visitors are required to have a visa to enter China. Ensure you apply well in advance of your trip. Always check the latest information from the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country.

Is it safe to travel to China?

Yes, China is generally safe for tourists. Like any travel destination, however, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Ensure you have travel insurance and keep emergency contact numbers handy.

Do people in China speak English?

While Mandarin is the official language in China, English is taught in schools and is commonly spoken in larger cities and tourist areas. However, it can be helpful to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases, especially if you’re traveling to more rural areas.

What currency is used in China?

The official currency of China is the Renminbi (RMB), with the basic unit being the Yuan (¥). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in rural areas.

What is the prettiest place in China?

China is filled with breathtakingly beautiful spots. This makes it challenging to single out the prettiest one. However, many travelers find the Li River & Yangshuo particularly enchanting, with their surreal karst mountains, serene river, and verdant landscapes. Equally alluring are the Yellow Mountains (Huangshan) with their dramatic peaks and seas of clouds.

What are the cool spots in China?

China’s cool spots are as diverse as the country itself. For urban lovers, Shanghai’s The Bund, with its blend of historical architecture and futuristic skyline, is an absolute must-see. For those seeking cultural experiences, the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Potala Palace in Lhasa offer fascinating insights into China’s rich history and spirituality. Nature enthusiasts will find the crystal-clear lakes and cascading waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou Valley or the mesmerizing karst landscapes of Guilin as some of the country’s cool spots.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in China

From the pulsating energy of its dynamic cities to the tranquillity of its natural landscapes, China offers an unparalleled travel experience. The country is a treasure trove of stunning vistas, historical sites, and vibrant culture. It truly proves that the most beautiful places in China extend far beyond the Great Wall.

Whether it’s floating down the Li River in Guilin, gazing in awe at the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, exploring the spiritual heart of Lhasa, or witnessing the historical grandeur of Beijing, every corner of China presents a new opportunity for discovery. Each of these destinations embodies China’s unique charm and allure, highlighting the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

So, whether you’re planning your first trip or are a seasoned traveler, China’s diverse landscapes and rich tapestry of experiences are sure to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. Remember, these are just a few of the beautiful places in China – there’s so much more to explore in this incredible country.

Traveling, after all, is about the beautiful places you’ll go, the experiences you’ll savor, and the stories you’ll tell upon your return. And there’s no better place to create those stories than in China. It’s a beautiful country where the past, present, and future intersect in fascinating and unexpected ways.