中国最值得外国人去的50个地方(50 must-visit destinations in China for foreign travelers)

Introduction

China is a vast country with a rich culture, diverse landscapes, and a history that goes back thousands of years. Whether you’re interested in ancient architecture, natural wonders, or vibrant modern cities, there’s something for everyone in China. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 50 must-visit destinations in China for foreign travelers.

1. The Great Wall of China

No trip to China would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall. The wall stretches for over 13,000 miles and was originally built over 2,000 years ago to protect China from invasions. Visitors can hike along sections of the wall and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

2. The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Visitors can explore the vast complex of over 980 buildings, including halls, pavilions, and courtyards, that housed the emperors and their families.

3. The Terracotta Warriors

The Terracotta Warriors are a collection of over 8,000 clay statues that were buried with the first Emperor of China to protect him in the afterlife. Visitors can see the life-sized warriors and horses, as well as chariots and weapons, and learn about the history of the Qin Dynasty.

4. The Yellow Mountains

The Yellow Mountains, or Huangshan, are known for their dramatic peaks, misty landscapes, and traditional Chinese paintings. Visitors can hike the mountain trails, soak in hot springs, and watch the sunrise or sunset over the sea of clouds.

5. The Yangtze River

The Yangtze River is the longest river in Asia and flows through some of China’s most scenic regions, including the Three Gorges. Visitors can take a relaxing cruise along the river, passing by steep cliffs, verdant forests, and ancient villages.

6. The Potala Palace

The Potala Palace is a symbol of Tibetan culture and religion and was once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Visitors can see the stunning golden-roofed complex, as well as the religious artifacts and murals inside.

7. The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base

The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu is home to over 100 giant pandas and their cubs. Visitors can watch the playful bears as they eat, sleep, and interact with each other, and learn about the efforts to protect this endangered species.

8. The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is known for its towering sandstone pillars, misty mountains, and lush vegetation. Visitors can take a glass elevator up the Tianmen Mountain, walk along the glass skywalks, and enjoy the stunning views.

9. The Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a beautiful royal garden and palace complex located in Beijing. Visitors can stroll along the ornate walkways and bridges, see the tranquil lakes and pavilions, and learn about the history of the Qing Dynasty.

10. The Shaolin Temple

The Shaolin Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of kung fu. Visitors can watch the monks practice their martial arts, see the ancient pagodas and shrines, and learn about the temple’s history and culture.

11. The Leshan Giant Buddha

The Leshan Giant Buddha is a 71-meter-tall statue carved out of a cliff face in Sichuan province. Visitors can climb the stairs to see the Buddha up close, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

12. The West Lake

The West Lake in Hangzhou is a serene and peaceful lake surrounded by gardens, temples, and historic sites. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, stroll along the tree-lined paths, and watch the traditional performances.

13. The Jiuzhaigou National Park

The Jiuzhaigou National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant autumn foliage. Visitors can hike the trails to see the colorful forests and mountains, and learn about the local Tibetan culture.

14. The Dunhuang Mogao Caves

The Dunhuang Mogao Caves are a complex of over 700 caves and grottoes that house some of the finest Buddhist art in China. Visitors can see the vibrant murals and sculptures, and learn about the history and culture of the Silk Road.

15. The Jiayu Pass

The Jiayu Pass is an ancient fortress located at the western end of the Great Wall of China. Visitors can explore the towers and watchtowers, and learn about the role the pass played in protecting China from invasions.

16. The Longmen Grottoes

The Longmen Grottoes in Henan province are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and house thousands of Buddhist statues and carvings. Visitors can see the intricate details and learn about the history and culture of the Tang Dynasty.

17. The Mount Tai

The Mount Tai is a sacred mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Shandong province. Visitors can climb the stairs to the summit to see the famous sunrise, visit the Taoist temples and shrines, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

18. The Karez Irrigation System

The Karez Irrigation System in Xinjiang province is an ancient engineering marvel that dates back over 2,000 years. Visitors can see the underground canals and wells that brought water to the arid regions along the northern Silk Road.

19. The Dazu Rock Carvings

The Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing are a series of over 50,000 rock carvings that depict Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian themes. Visitors can see the exquisite details and learn about the history and culture of the Song and Ming Dynasties.

20. The Hukou Waterfall

The Hukou Waterfall is the second-largest waterfall in China and is located on the Yellow River. Visitors can see the roaring waters and the rainbow that forms over the mist, and learn about the geology and folklore of the region.

21. The Tianjin Eye

The Tianjin Eye is a giant ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the city of Tianjin. Visitors can see the Haihe River, the historic sites, and the modern skyscrapers.

22. The Mogao Caves

The Mogao Caves in Gansu province are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and house some of the finest Buddhist art in the world. Visitors can see the colorful murals and statues, and learn about the history and culture of the Silk Road.

23. The Yungang Grottoes

The Yungang Grottoes in Shanxi province are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and house some of the finest Buddhist art in China. Visitors can see the intricate statues and architecture, and learn about the history and culture of the Northern Wei Dynasty.

24. The Zhangye Danxia Landform

The Zhangye Danxia Landform in Gansu province is a stunning landscape of colorful rock formations and rainbow mountains. Visitors can hike the trails to see the vibrant red, orange, and yellow hills, and enjoy the sunset over the valley.

25. The Sichuan Opera

The Sichuan Opera is a traditional Chinese opera that originated in Sichuan province. Visitors can see the colorful costumes, the unique musical instruments, and the dramatic performances that include acrobatics, puppetry, and face-changing.

26. The Sanxingdui Museum

The Sanxingdui Museum in Sichuan province houses the artifacts and treasures from the ancient Shu civilization. Visitors can see the bronze masks, jade carvings, and pottery artifacts that date back to the 12th century BC.

27. The Drum Tower of Xi'an

The Drum Tower of Xi'an is an ancient tower that once served as a clock and a musical performance venue. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top to see the beautiful views of the city, and enjoy the traditional drum performances.

28. The Xi'an City Wall

The Xi'an City Wall is a fortified wall that encircles the ancient city of Xi'an. Visitors can walk or bike the wall to see the historic gates, watchtowers, and temples, and learn about the city’s history and culture.

29. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway

The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the highest railway in the world and connects Xining in Qinghai province to Lhasa in Tibet. Visitors can see the stunning landscapes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, including the snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and grasslands.

30. The Lijiang Old Town

The Lijiang Old Town in Yunnan province is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful example of traditional Chinese architecture and culture. Visitors can see the ancient streets, waterways, and courtyards, and learn about the local Naxi culture.

31. The Beijing 798 Art Zone

The Beijing 798 Art Zone is a thriving arts and culture district located in the former industrial area. Visitors can see the contemporary art exhibitions, craft markets, and street performances, and enjoy the bustling nightlife.

32. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a conservation center that is working to protect China’s most beloved animal. Visitors can see the pandas up close, learn about the efforts to breed and rehabilitate them, and even volunteer to help with their care.

33. The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan province is a beautiful garden that showcases the diversity of tropical flora and fauna. Visitors can see the exotic plants, animals, and insects, as well as learn about the traditional Dai culture.

34. The Jinsha Site Museum

The Jinsha Site Museum in Chengdu is an archaeological site that dates back over 3,000 years. Visitors can see the ancient artifacts and treasures that reveal the history and culture of the Shu civilization, and learn about the archeological excavations.

35. The Jiulong Waterfalls

The Jiulong Waterfalls are a series of waterfalls located in Guizhou province. Visitors can hike the trails to see the cascading falls, the lush forests, and the ancient villages, as well as learn about the local Miao culture.

36. The Huashan Mountain

The Huashan Mountain is a sacred mountain that is known for its steep peaks and challenging hiking trails. Visitors can climb the stairs to the summit to see the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

37. The Wudang Mountains

The Wudang Mountains in Hubei province are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the birthplaces of Taoism in China. Visitors can see the ancient temples, pagodas, and palaces, as well as learn about the philosophy and practice of Taoism.

38. The Jiande Yunxi Bamboo Forest

The Jiande Yunxi Bamboo Forest in Zhejiang province is a beautiful forest of towering bamboo trees. Visitors can walk the trails, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and learn about the local bamboo craft and culture.

39. The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall

The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall is a museum that commemorates the victims of the Nanjing Massacre during World War II. Visitors can see the exhibitions, artifacts, and personal accounts that reveal the atrocities and the heroism of the survivors.

40. The Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk

The Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk is a thrilling attraction that offers a unique perspective of the scenic area. Visitors can walk on the glass walkway that overlooks the steep cliffs and the lush vegetation, and even watch the daredevil stunts performed by the local actors.

41. The Tongli Water Town

The Tongli Water Town in Jiangsu province is a well-preserved ancient town that showcases the traditional Chinese architecture and culture. Visitors can see the winding canals, stone bridges, and historic buildings, and learn about the local Wu culture and cuisine.

42. The Mount Emei

The Mount Emei is a sacred mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. Visitors can hike the mountain trails to see the ancient temples, monasteries, and statues, and even witness the daily chanting rituals performed by the monks.

43. The Zhongshan Scenic Area

The Zhongshan Scenic Area in Nanjing is a beautiful park that is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China. Visitors can see the statue of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the beautiful gardens, and the historic sites that reflect the history and culture of the Republic of China.

44. The Qingcheng Mountain

The Qingcheng Mountain in Sichuan province is a sacred mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its Taoist temples and natural landscapes. Visitors can hike the ancient trails, see the beautiful scenery, and learn about the history and philosophy of Taoism.

45. The Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture

The Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu province is a unique region that showcases the diversity of Chinese culture and religion. Visitors can see the mosques, temples, and shrines that represent the Islamic, Buddhist, and Taoist traditions, as well as taste the local Halal cuisine.

46. The Yungang Grottoes of Datong

The Yungang Grottoes of Datong in Shanxi province are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art. Visitors can see the intricate carvings and statues that reflect the artistic and cultural traditions of the Northern Wei Dynasty.

47. The Baiyu Mountain

The Baiyu Mountain in Sichuan province is a scenic area that is famous for its natural forests and hot springs. Visitors can hike the mountain trails to see the wild flowers and the bird species, relax in the natural hot springs, and learn about the local Yao culture.

48. The Lugu Lake

The Lugu Lake is a beautiful lake located on the border of Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. Visitors can see the crystal-clear waters, the traditional wooden houses, and the colorful costumes of the local Mosuo people, and learn about the matriarchal culture and traditions.

49. The Kuqa Grand Mosque

The Kuqa Grand Mosque in Xinjiang province is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in China. Visitors can see the intricate decorations and calligraphy, hear the melodic prayers, and learn about the history and culture of Islam in China.

50. The Jiangxi Museum of Geology

The Jiangxi Museum of Geology in Nanchang is a unique museum that showcases the geological wonders of China. Visitors can see the fossils, rocks, and minerals that reveal the history and evolution of the earth, and learn about the scientific discoveries and innovations in geology.

Conclusion

China is a vast country filled with a wealth of natural, cultural, and historical treasures. Whether you’re interested in ancient landmarks, modern cities, or natural wonders, there’s always something new to discover in China. At these 50 must-visit destinations, you’ll get a taste of the diverse and fascinating culture that makes China one of the most fascinating countries in the world.