China is home to one of the world's oldest civilisations, but at the same time, they are also the leading nations when it comes to modern development. As a result, it has become a country rich with historical and modern tourist destinations.
If you are planning to visit China any time soon, then you are on the right page. This article contains a shortlist of the must-visit spots when you are in China.
Must Visit Places in China
Here are 9 of the must-visit places in China that you should consider:
The Great Wall of China
No visit to China is complete if you have not seen the Great Wall of China. It has a long-standing history that makes it a unique ancient monument of today. It is 6,000 kilometers long, and the walls itself average from 6 to 16 meters high.
Although it is difficult to go around the Great Wall in a single day, you can visit its most popular section near the Badaling Pass located northwest of Beijing. It is accessible to tourists via public transport. You can also reach there by joining organised tours from locals.
The Potala Palace, Tibet
This destination is another popular ancient monument that represents China. It is located in Lhasa, Tibet, and was designed as a residence and fortress for the Dalai Lama. For centuries, it served as the center of religious and political power.
If you are planning to visit the town of Lhasa, you should also visit the Jewel Gardens. It is the Dalai Lama's summer residence, and it includes a 90-acre garden surrounded by pavilions and lakes.
Shanghai's Promenade: The Bund
For those who are looking for an excellent city destination in China, you should consider Shanghai's Promenade: The Bund. It is an example of remarkable city planning and preservation.
When visiting here, you might feel like you are transported to Europe because of its architecture, which makes it an excellent place for photo taking. If you have more time to explore, don't miss out on visiting the Yu Garden, which is also known as the Garden of Happiness.
Macau
Macau is situated on the western side of the Pearl River Delta. It is popularly known as the Las Vegas of Asia because of the numbers of glitzy casinos, and luxury hotels are located here.
Since the Portuguese reigned over Macau for over 4 centuries, the remnants of their influence are obvious in the architecture of the city. This is why when you visit Macau, it is like you are transported to Europe.
However, aside from world class entertainment, you will also find historical sites worth visiting in Macau.
The Forbidden City, Beijing
The Forbidden City is considered to be the biggest and most important building in China. It is located in the middle of Beijing, which magnificently contrasts its modern atmosphere.
Today, it is considered to be among the most popular destinations in China. Make sure you have plenty of time when visiting here because it has plenty of magnificent highlights. Some of these are the Hall of Preserving Harmony, Hall of Supreme Harmony, and the Golden river bridge.
There are also other significant attractions nearby the Forbidden City. Some of these are the Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square, which also hold their own historical value not only for China but all of humanity.
Leshan Giant Buddha
Leshan is situated in the Sichuan Province of China, and it lies where the Qingyi, Dadu and Min reverse intersect. However, the city is most popular for the world's largest stone-carved Buddha.
The Giant Buddha in Leshan is 71 meters tall. It took over 90 years for Buddhist monks to complete the statue. When you look at it up close, you will definitely feel how colossal it is and think about the amount of work using primitive tools, given that its construction started in 713 AD.
Visiting the Giant Buddha is not the only thing that you can do while in Leshan. It is also home to restaurants that serve delicious Sichuan cuisine.
Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu
Pandas are one of the most iconic animals found in China. They are fascinating creatures who are very adorable and cute. Luckily, you can see them up close and personal at the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu.
Over 80 pandas are roaming around in these facilities and visitors can observe them doing their daily routines such as foraging and eating. Besides being able to observe them personally, you will also get the chance to learn more about them and how you can help conserve their species, given that they are becoming extinct.
Historic West Lake, Hangzhou
Hangzhou is among the few cities in China that both have ancient temples and historic sites. However, it is mostly popular for the West Lake. It is a 6 kilometer square stretch of water inside the center of the old city. The location and scenery itself are indeed breathtaking.
To best enjoy the beauty of the West lake, hop aboard tour boats. They have guides who will further explain its history while you are sightseeing. After that, don't miss the musical fountain show in the area that is held every evening.
The Mausoleum of Light, Shenyang
The Mausoleum of Light is located in the old city Shenyang which is a mountainous northeastern region of China. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The tomb is popular for its one of a kind architectural style that combines castle-like buildings and traditionally arranged burial sites. The important figure buried here is Emperor Huang Taiji, who was in power from 1626 to 1635.
Visiting China
You will not run out of enjoyable places to visit when you are in China because it has plenty of unique and historical tourist spots. There are also plenty of activities for you to do and the cuisine in the area is exquisite, so you are sure to have a wonderful and memorable time.
Which of these places in China would you love to visit?