The worth-visiting cities in China

A picturesque country full of diverse landscapes, cuisine and culture, China boasts captivating cities that showcase its colorful contrasts, from gleaming skyscrapers to cobbled alleyways. It is a country where you can experience ancient traditions and visit world-class attractions, and spend your time exploring iconic landmarks, meeting pandas and meandering through the quiet countryside. From the Great Wall in Beijing to the UNESCO-listed streets of Lijiang, here are some of the best cities to visit in China.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a city that sprawls and seethes with the energy of more than 24 million people and is one of the world’s largest cities. It gradually increased in importance as a city throughout the dynastic ages of the Song and Ming, but it was under the Qing that it boomed to become the most important trading port on the Yangtze River Delta.

In the present day Shanghai is much the same and the shimmering skyscrapers on the Bund are testament to the city’s trading power. You will still find traces of the old however in the numerous historic buildings and the leafy canals of the French Concession.

Hangzhou

Famed for its natural scenery, Hangzhou and its West Lake have been immortalized by countless poets and artists. In the 13th century Marco Polo described the city as the most beautiful and magnificent in the world. Hangzhou’s most famous sight, West Lake, is a large lake separated by causeways and lined with ancient buildings and gardens designed for relaxation and spirituality. Visitors will find pagodas, temples, walking paths and tea farms along its shores.

Chengdu

Found in the Sichuan province, Chengdu is China’s panda capital. Home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, this city is one of the best places to see these iconic animals.
The research base is dedicated to the breeding and conservation of giant pandas, with a population that has grown from just six in 1987 to over 80 today. And alongside observing them, visitors can learn all about the species at the Giant Panda Museum. Whilst in Chengdu, be sure to check out the city’s tea house culture. The city is also famous for its Sichuan cuisine, so don’t leave without trying a bite or two.

Guilin

Guilin, with its marvelous limestone scenery, is renowned as one of the most beautiful place on earth. On his tour, Former US President Nixon remarked: "I have found that no city can surpass the beauty of Guilin."

Xi’an

Guilin is an hour due west from Hong Kong by air. A tour of Hong Kong can be easily combined with a Guilin tour for visa-free travel.

Xi’an was once the start of the indispensable Silk Road that made commerce between many countries in Eurasia possible. It was also the imperial seat for no fewer than eleven dynasties, before the unification of China between 1000 BC and 1000 AD making it one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. Its most famous attractions is the rather recently discovered Terracotta Army, the protectors of the tomb of the first emperor of China. Xi’an also boast 14th century city walls that are more than 12 km (8 miles) long. They are not only a part of the city history, but traveling in Xi’an sometimes requires going under, on or around them.

See more: Top 10 attractions to visit in Xian, China

Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China and a typical big city that never sleeps. With a population of over 21 million, it is slightly smaller than Shanghai, although it is also the political center of the country and home of iconic spots like Tiananmen Square.

One of the big draws here is the fascinating Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties lived, and you will find opulent ceramics, artwork, fountains and thrones here. The National Museum of China is also located in Beijing and is one of the most acclaimed art institutions in the country.

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Top attractions in Guilin, China

According to the Chinese, Guilin has “the finest landscape under heaven” and the surrounding scenery has inspired Chinese landscape paintings for centuries. It even features on the Chinese 20 Yuan banknote. If you are having plan to Guilin, here are 6 attractions for you.

Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces

In May, the still-unplanted terraces of water will mirror the white clouds and color of the sky above, yielding some of the best opportunities for photographers to shoot the sunrise. As harvest season approaches in early fall, venturing out onto the mountain slopes gives travelers the chance to witness Zhuang farmers covering the slopes, bending down into the harvest and tending to the intricate bamboo and earthen irrigation systems which give life to the mountainside.

Li River

Cruising from Guilin to Yangshuo, a water way around 80 km (50 miles), is also called Li River Essence Tour. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Guilin. Along the way, the blue sky, green mountains with strange rocks and the clear water compose a beautiful painting. Boarding on a comfortable cruise to appreciate the attractions like Yellow Cloth Shoal which was printed on the note CNY 20 will really be an unforgettable experience.

Bamboo Rafting Yangshuo

Bamboo rafting along the Yulong River was definitely one of the highlights of our Guilin trip. This Yangshuo River is a small tributary of the great Li River and bamboo rafting along here is one of the most popular things to do in Yangshuo.

You can cycle through the countryside to reach the bamboo rafting launch site, but be aware that you first need to navigate the city traffic and so you will need to decide if you are comfortable doing this with your kids on board.

Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill is located in the center of Guilin City and it is one of the most famous landmark sceneries. The shape of the hill is like a giant elephant sucking the water from Li River with its nose. That is why its name is Elephant Trunk Hill. On the hill, there is a brick tower Puxian Pagoda which was built in Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644). Another good place to see the Hill is Love Island which is to the north of the Hill. You cannot miss the interesting Elephant Trunk Hill and it deserves one of the best places to visit in Guilin.

The Reed Flute Cave

A natural beauty and a must-see if you are looking for more things to do in Guilin. A 15-minute taxi ride away, the Reed Flute cave area offers fantastic views and a fun day out.

You pay a 120RMB entrance fee which is pretty high, but you will probably spend a few hours there so you will get your money’s worth. The caves themselves are situated relatively high up. You will either need to jump on the train and pay 35RMB or walk up the steep stairs. The stair option gives you the chance to view your surroundings, but you will be knackered by the end of it!

Pedestrian Street

Photo Cavinteo

Most cities have these but each will be different. You will always find at least one thing that will interest or shock you. About a ten minute walk from Guihu Lake, the pedestrian street is buzzing with food, clothes and toy stalls.

Lined with shops, bars and restaurants too, you are guaranteed to find somewhere you will want to check out. There are turnings off the main street, wander down here and you will find more authentic restaurants and bars.

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Top things to do in Guilin, China

Guilin has some of the most beautiful karst landscape in the world. From taking a relaxing cruise along the Li River to hiking or biking in Yangshuo's countryside, there are so many things to do and to see that cater for different travel styles. 

Catch a show

With over 100 performers, the Dreamlike Lijiang show features a large range of performances including ballet dancers, acrobats and contortionists. The show is accompanied by high-tech lighting and sound effects, which add to the drama of the storytelling.

Though the show is not as prominent as the more famous Impression Light Show in the nearby town of Yangshuo, viewers will not be disappointed in the quality of entertainment. For travelers wishing to watch an ethnic show, Fantastic Guilin features performances from four nationalities such as Yao, Dong, Zhuang, and Miao. The show tells love stories and legends through folk singing and dance.

Visit the Rice Terraces

Guilin's rice terraces look like great chains or ribbons as they wind around the contours in tiered bands. The ethnic minority villages are also worth exploring.

An authentic travel experience goes beyond visiting the must-see attractions, and includes genuinely connecting with the locals and their customs. When you visit the rice terraces, you should visit a local ethnic family and let them share with you their stories while cooking bamboo tube rice.

Eat rice noodles

Guilin’s rice noodles are well-known throughout China as a cheap and delicious dish fit for any time of day. Soft and flavorful, the noodles are served in broth and commonly topped with gravy, pickled vegetables, peanuts, and various types of meat. For a bit of spice, pepper oil or chili flakes can be added.

These popular noodles can easily be found at numerous eateries in and around Guilin. Do not be surprised if the noodles from different eateries do not taste the same, though, as there is no standard recipe. This means that each restaurant has its own unique take on the noodles, making each bowl a new experience, and giving you the perfect excuse to eat them every day.

Visit Tianxin Village

At 30 kilometers away from Guilin City, this quaint little countryside village definitely holds its own in terms of awesomeness and 100 percent deserves a spot on this list. If you are looking to get off the beaten path, experience rural farm life, see some beautiful scenery, and take absolutely epic photos, than Tianxian Village is the spot for you.

The best way to get here is to hire a driver as it is a bit hard to find on your own. China does not make it easy as there are 3 villages all named Tianxin Village around Guilin and you have to know the right one to go to. It is about an hour drive to get here, but it is oh so worth the drive. It is best to go early in the morning to catch the farmers heading out to the fields with their buffalo walking over ancient arched stone bridges over the rivers and through endless rice fields. It is an incredibly picturesque place that will make you feel like you have gone back in time.

Visit a Tea Plantation

Tea lovers should definitely visit the Guilin Tea Science and Research Institute located just north-east of Guilin. Covering over 100 acres, the institute was founded in 1965 and is home to 250 different tea plants. According to the institute’s website, the land used for the tea plantation was originally the tea garden for royalty during the Ming dynasty. Visitors can watch a demonstration showing how tea is picked, processed and brewed. The institute produces an impressive 42 tons of tea each year and is the largest of its kind in the Guangxi region.

Read more: Visit Guilin's top natural sceneries

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Discover the most beautiful landscapes in Guilin, China

Guilin has some of the most beautiful karst landscape in the world. From taking a relaxing cruise along the Li River to hiking or biking in Yangshuo's countryside, there are so many things to do and to see that cater for different travel styles.

Li River

It is hard to miss this the Li, it cuts right through downtown. Starting in Cat Mountain in Xinan County, the river winds down to its outlet in the Gonchen River. Hop aboard a boat, tour operators range from bamboo rafts to massive vessels and take in the gallery of rolling hills, karst peaks, placid blue water, and trickling waterfalls. You may even see cormorant fishermen and swimmers who do not mind brisk waters.

Bamboo Rafting Yangshuo

Bamboo rafting along the Yulong River was definitely one of the highlights of Guilin trip. This Yangshuo River is a small tributary of the great Li River and bamboo rafting along here is one of the most popular things to do in Yangshuo.

Elephant Trunk Hill

Elephant Trunk Hill, in the north of Guilin City, is a hot attraction and landmark of Guilin. Beautiful natural views merged with valuable cultural landscape make it a fascinating place which makes tourists fascinated and longing for.

Elephant Trunk Hill attract tourists with its green mountains, clear water, fantastic caves and beautiful rocks. Most hot attractions include Water Moon Cave, Elephant Eye Cave, Puxian Pagoda, and Yunfeng Temple.

Reed Flute Cave

Apart from karst mountains, the limestone karst caves in Guilin are also worthy of a visit. Reed Flute Cave is the best among all the caves in and around Guilin.

Reed Flute Cave is a fascinating gallery of natural sculptures. It is filled with a large number of stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations in weird and wonderful shapes. A visit to the cave takes about 3 hours.

Seven Star Park

Spanning 134 hectares, Seven Star Park is the biggest park in Guilin and it packs oodles of natural features within its walls. It gets its name from the seven peaks residing in the park (the four peaks on Putuo Mountain and three on Crescent Mountain) that together resemble the Big Dipper constellation.

It is also home to Camel Hill (which in the spring is covered in plum blossoms), the Seven Star Cave system, and tons of mischievous monkeys.

Longsheng and the Longji Rice Terraces

The Longji Rice Terraces are about 100km from Guilin and make a fascinating (if rather long) Guilin day tour. To get to the viewpoints for these Guilin rice terraces, you also need to endure a one-hour climb up a series of steps up the mountainside.

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6 underrated destinations in China

China, the getaway to East Asia is a fascinating country with diverse in landscape and culture. Visitors making their first trip to China usually stick to the larger cities and forget small cities. Here are 6 beautiful underrated destinations in China you should visit.

1. Hangzhou

Hangzhou is known for its stunning natural beauty with the idyllic West Lake being the very best of what is on offer with the Broken Bridge being the romantic highlight. Taking a boat trip on its tranquil waters is heavenly and you can stop off at various islands which each have their own individual features. A number of temples and pagodas are scattered around the area and, with the water glimmering behind them; there are a plethora of beautiful views to be found. One of the most famous sites in the country, Lingyin Temple is a must-see in this breathtaking city.

2. Yangshuo

Yangshuo in south China was once a magnet for backpackers because of its cheap prices and laid-back atmosphere, but today it draws all sorts of travelers to enjoy its beautiful scenery and karst mountains. Yangshuo also makes a good base to take a day trip to Guilin for a leisurely trip on the Li River. Many people choose to rent bicycles for the trip back since the route is relatively flat and gives them the opportunity to view farmers toiling in their fields.

3. Lhasa

The capital of Tibet, Lhasa is a mesmerizing city to visit and it is situated in a beautiful and mountainous environment in the Himalayas. The Potala Palace is the primary site of interest and the incredible building looks absolutely amazing. Jokhang Palace is also memorable to visit and it is home to Tibet´s most prized possession – an ancient and delightful statue of the Buddha. Very different from the rest of China; head here for an insight into the rich Tibetan culture.

4. Kunming

Located in the south of the country, ´The City of Eternal Spring´ as it is known as a great place from which to set off and explore the delights of the beautiful Yunnan Province. In Kunming itself, the spectacular Yuantong Temple dates back to the eight century and is definitely worth a visit for the impressive stone carvings that can be found scattered around its premises. Tanhua Temple is becoming increasingly popular due to the lovely scenery it offers up.

5. Suzhou

Famed for its lovely gardens and traditional buildings that hug the waterside of the canals, locals and foreigners alike flock to Suzhou as it is the most famous water town in China. Its picturesque canals are delightful to wander along as small footbridges cross the water and paper lanterns hang from the buildings. Although it has modernized drastically in recent decades, the city has retained pockets of its charming features that harken back to days gone by.

6. Guilin

The otherworldly scenery that is found in Guilin and its surroundings makes this an awe-inspiring place to visit. Relaxing on a boat drifting down the Li River is a magical experience as the spectacular karst features of the landscape pass by on either side of you. Shrouded in mist, they look mysterious and if you venture into the heart of breathtaking Yangshuo, you will find caves and grottoes hidden amidst the undergrowth. An incredibly beautiful city, many visitors to Guilin head to the Moon and Sun Pagoda for the lovely view it offers over the area.

See more: Foods that define China

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