Jinshanling Great Wall, Beijing

When traveling to China, hiking the Great Wall in Beijing is a must-do thing. This ancient wonder stretches over 13,000 miles, offering stunning views and a glimpse into China's rich history. Badaling is popular for the magnificent views along the wall, and the route is relatively smooth for beginners. Mutianyu has gentler terrain and is fully restored, making it perfect for a family tour.

For the more adventurous, Jinshanling is less crowded and seamlessly blends history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery, giving a sense of the wall's original state. As you hike, you'll traverse the watchtowers and steep steps to experience the grandeur of this historical marvel. Visiting the Great Wall is a journey through time, making it a highlight of your Beijing tour.

• Best Time to Travel: Due to favorable weather conditions, the best time to hike the Great Wall in Beijing is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) months. Avoid May Day (the first week of May) and National Day (the first week of October) holidays because they are the peak tourist season.
• Travel Tips: It's best to start early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking a lot. Some sections are steep, so take your time and go down slowly. A knowledgeable guide can provide historical context and enrich your visit.

The Bund in Shanghai

Strolling along the Bund in Shanghai is an enchanting activity in China. The magnificent Pearl Tower, the sleek Shanghai Tower, and the bustling Bund buildings all tell the story of the city. For the best experience, start your walk near the iconic Peace Hotel and make your way south, appreciating the alternating old and new scenery of Shanghai along the way.

The city's lights come alive at dusk in the evening, glittering on the water. The breeze carries vibrant energy to the town, and performances can be seen everywhere on the streets, adding a lively charm to the night atmosphere. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene stroll, the Bund offers a glimpse into Shanghai's rich culture.

• Best Time to Travel: One of the best times of the day to walk the Bund is early morning or late evening. There are fewer people in the morning, and the air is fresh, so you can enjoy the quiet environment and the view of the Bund in the morning light. If you visit at night, you can see Pudong's night view and light show. You also have the chance to see a gorgeous fireworks display if it's a holiday.
• Travel Tips: A night cruise along the Huangpu River is also a fantastic way to experience the Bund. If you plan to visit nearby attractions, such as Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and Yu Garden, arrange your time appropriately to avoid being too busy. Also, feel free to contact our travel expert if you find it challenging to plan your Shanghai tour.

The Terracotta Warriors

Exploring the history of the Terracotta Army in Xi'an is like taking a trip back to ancient China. This incredible archaeological site features thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, each uniquely crafted to guard the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor. Each statue is unique, showcasing intricate details from facial expressions to battle armor.

The scale and artistry of the Terracotta Army will amaze you. It's a vivid glimpse into China's rich history and the remarkable legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, so it is no wonder that curious travelers worldwide, just like you, visit it. Discovering the history of the Terracotta Army is not just an exciting thing to do in China but a captivating encounter with the past that leaves a lasting impression on you.

• Best Time to Travel: The Terracotta Warriors are suitable for year-round visits, and during the peak summer season (July - August), the flow of people will be relatively large. It's recommended that you get to the Terracotta Warriors as early as possible in the morning (open at 8:30 am) to avoid large numbers of tourists.
• Travel Tips: The museum has some steps and ramps, so be careful when walking to prevent falls. It's worth noting that the museum requires identification upon entry, so remember to bring your passport when visiting.

The Forbidden City in Sunset

If you want to appreciate Chinese architecture, wandering through the Forbidden City (also known as the Palace Museum) might be a suitable thing to do. This massive palace complex served as the home and political center for 24 emperors for nearly 500 years. From the emperor's living room to the ceremonial room and the gallery displaying royal artifacts, every corner tells the story of the imperial era.

Strolling through the palace roads and magnificent halls with grey bricks and red walls, you will be amazed by the golden roofs and intricate carvings. It's great to overlook the entire Palace Museum and fully experience its grand scale. Jingshan Park, located opposite the north gate of the Forbidden City, is a good viewing spot.

• Best Time to Travel: One of the best times to explore this magnificent palace complex is from April to May and September to October, and it's a place to visit all year round. The mild and comfortable weather in spring and autumn offers clear days with the added beauty of golden leaves. The Forbidden City is sunny in the summer and covered with snow in the winter, which is more suitable for taking beautiful photos. Also, consider visiting in the late afternoon, when the light is softer and a golden glow is cast on the palace rooftops, enhancing the atmosphere of this historic site.
• Travel Tips: The busiest times are between 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, so it's better to go during morning opening hours or weekday afternoons to avoid the crowds. Tickets are not available for sale on-site, so it's recommended that you book your trip as early as possible. Hiring an experienced guide will provide insider knowledge of architecture and enhance your understanding of this iconic site.

The Potala Palace

The Potala Palace has been Tibet's spiritual and political center for centuries and is still a holy place for many pilgrims. It houses a large number of Buddhist scriptures and essential historical documents and is a great place to appreciate Tibetan history, religion, and architecture. As you approach, you'll be mesmerized by its stunning white and red walls, which stand like a fortress against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Inside, explore a labyrinth of churches, shrines, and halls where you might find a lifelong faith.

• Best Time to Travel: May to October each year is usually the best time to visit the Potala Palace, as you can avoid extreme weather and enjoy the most beautiful scenery. The Shoton Festival (typically early to mid-August) at the end of June in the Tibetan calendar will host grand religious and cultural activities and is also an excellent time to experience Tibetan culture.
• Travel Tips: It's suitable for walking slowly and enjoying the beautiful scenery, avoiding altitude sickness or other discomforts because Tibet is at a high altitude. It's recommended to wear simple rather than revealing clothing when visiting to avoid violating Buddhist taboos.

Li River

This picturesque city attracts many people who love nature and mountains every year. One of the exciting things to do on a trip to Guilin is to take a refreshing Li River cruise while fully appreciating the lush karst peaks. The 83-kilometer stretch from Guilin to Yangshuo offers some of China's most picturesque views. As your boat glides along the clear waters, you can see the spectacular mountains rising steadily from the riverbank, their peaks shrouded in mist, like a beautiful Chinese painting. Each bend in the river reveals a new and breathtaking vista, making this cruise a feast for the eyes and a popular thing to see and do in China.

• Best Time to Travel: The best time to cruise the Li River in Guilin is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). The weather in these two seasons is more pleasant, without the scorching heat of summer or the cold of winter. In spring, the banks of the Li River are full of greenery, and the water is clear. Spring rain adds to the mystery and beauty of the Li River. The water flows smoothly in autumn, and the rice fields and orchards on both sides are golden.
• Travel Tips: Prepare your camera, as you won't be able to stop taking photos - the scenery is incredibly beautiful.

Giant Panda Breeding Center

Experience being a giant panda volunteer is a fun thing to do in China. Imagine you enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime activity at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base by getting up close with these cute and iconic animals. Under the guidance of staff, you have a chance to help clean the enclosures, collect feces, and add bamboo. Through the lush, bamboo-lined fence, you can observe pandas playing, eating, and lounging, capturing these giant pandas' lively and charming gestures. It's a fun and educational experience that deepens your understanding of pandas, making it a highlight of your China tour.

• Best Time to Travel: The best time of year to visit is March to May and September to November, when the lush green environment and vibrant foliage enhance the natural beauty of the panda base. And 8:00 am to 10:00 am is also a great time to visit, when pandas typically eat, play, and move around more, making for better photo opportunities.
• Travel Tips: There are three main panda bases in Sichuan. The more popular one is Dujiangyan Base, a nature reserve about 76 kilometers from Chengdu dedicated to raising and caring for the adorable giant pandas.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

If you're a nature lover and adventure seeker, you may not miss Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, renowned for its towering sandstone pillars, dense forests, and breathtaking scenery. Begin your natural adventure by walking along the park's scenic trails, and explore the Glass Bridge for an exhilarating experience and incredible views. Hike to the top of Tianzi Mountain, fully experiencing the baptism of nature, which is also the filming location of the famous movie "Avatar." Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offers an otherworldly experience, and ventures into this magical landscape might become a beautiful memory.

• Best Time to Travel: Due to the sunny weather and stunning scenery, the best months to travel for this activity in China are March and October. The quieter time of year is the cold winter from December to February. Although some areas may be inaccessible due to ice, you can enjoy stunning snow-capped mountain scenery without fear of the severe cold.
• Travel Tips: While exploring Zhangjiajie Park on foot offers a better experience, you can also take advantage of buses, cable cars, elevators, and trams for added convenience and access to higher attractions. Prepare comfortable shoes, as you may need to walk a lot in the park. For more information, please check out our Zhangjiajie Travel Guide.

The Grand Id Kah Mosque

When you visit China, exploring the ancient Silk Road in Xinjiang offers a journey where history and adventure intertwine. In Urumqi, the vibrant capital of Xinjiang, you can find exotic spices, silks, and traditional crafts. If you want to experience grape valleys and the stunning Jiaohe Ruins, head to the ancient city of Turpan.

Another ancient city is Kashgar, where you can explore the grand Id Kah Mosque and the lively Sunday Bazaar. The Silk Road in Xinjiang has magnificent landscapes, including snow-capped mountaintops, vast deserts, and diverse cultures worth exploring.

• Best Time to Travel: May to October is the best time to enjoy activities in Xinjiang. It's not only because of the warm and pleasant climate, which is very suitable for outdoor adventures, but also because of the colorful natural scenery along the way.
• Travel Tips: Bring clothes suitable for weather conditions, including windbreakers, hats, and sunscreen products, because Xinjiang has a changeable climate and significant temperature difference. It's also important to pay attention to sun protection and moisturize your skin when you're in plateaus and deserts.

Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou, the treasure of Sichuan, is a paradise built of tranquil landscapes and bright colors. Here, you can immerse yourself in the embrace of nature and feel endless charm and beauty. You may not miss strolling along the lakeside of Wuhua Lake, where the crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains.

The spectacular Nuorilang Waterfall is also worth seeing. It cascades down from multiple layers of rocks, and beautiful rainbows often appear in the sun, making every photo a postcard. If you like hiking, you can choose to take an adventure tour of the primeval forest and meet various small animals. In Jiuzhaigou, every moment is in intimate contact with nature.

• Best Time to Travel: Autumn (especially mid-September to mid-October) is the best time to visit Jiuzhaigou to enjoy nature, as the leaves in the scenic area turn into various colors, forming a sharp contrast with the blue-green lake, like a picture scroll. You can also choose spring or winter to avoid crowds and have a quiet travel experience.
• Travel Tips: The entire scenic area is vast and requires a whole day to visit. It's recommended that you wear comfortable shoes, as you may have to walk for a while. There are restaurants and water vendors in the scenic area to provide you with convenience.

Erhai Lake

Discover the stunning landscapes of Yunnan, a region full of natural beauty and fresh air. Kunming's spring-like climate all year round allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of clusters of colorful flowers no matter when you visit. Dali's Erhai Lake invites you to take a leisurely bike ride or boat tour and appreciate its charming white-walled houses and vibrant night markets.

In Shangri-La, experience the tranquil beauty of Pudacuo National Park, where vast grasslands, clear lakes, and majestic snow-capped mountains are perfect for hiking and immersing yourself in nature. Yunnan is a windy place that perfectly blends scenic wonders and cultural experiences, and you may be deeply impressed by the power and beauty of nature.

• Best Time to Travel: Yunnan is a year-round destination, but spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are rated as the best times to visit Yunnan by most tourists, with pleasant weather perfect for a variety of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
• Travel Tips: The plateau area has strong sunlight, so it's recommended that you bring sun protection products such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and folding umbrellas. You'd better wear a thin coat to cope with the significant temperature difference between day and night.

Mogao Caves

Dive into exploring the Buddhist Culture of Mogao Caves in Gansu and let the echoes of history guide your adventure. The murals on the Mogao Caves depict majestic Buddhas, intricate mandalas, and vivid scenes from Buddhist texts. Visit the library cave, once home to thousands of ancient manuscripts, offering a glimpse into the rich intellectual heritage of the Silk Road. In addition, the surrounding desert landscape is also spectacular. You can take pictures of the unique natural scenery, contrasting sharply with the thousand-year-old caves. This enriching historical journey will allow you to understand Buddhist culture fully and appreciate ancient art's beauty.

• Best Time to Travel: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Mogao Caves, with suitable temperatures, a moderate number of tourists, and the best environment. If you choose to visit in summer, try to avoid holidays and take sun protection and warm measures. Although winter is cold, there are fewer tourists, and you can enjoy a quieter environment.
• Travel Tips: Since the number of caves open each day varies the specific caves (generally 8-10), and to better protect the scenic spots, it is best to follow the guide's instructions and visit the designated open caves.

Mount Huangshan

Huangshan is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts due to its charming natural beauty and unique trees. Huangshan's Greeting Pine is popular with photographers and symbolizes the mountain's welcoming spirit. The strange rocks of Huangshan are also worth noting. They are shaped like various animals or humans, making people marvel at the wonders of nature.

The sea of clouds on the top of the mountain is also a highlight of the hike, especially during sunrise or sunset in a breathtaking view. After a day of hiking, you can soak in the mountains' natural hot springs to relieve fatigue while enjoying the tranquility of nature. It is a relaxing journey for both body and mind.

• Best Time to Travel: March to May and September to November are suitable for visiting Huangshan for hiking and outdoor sports. The average temperature is between 15℃ and 25℃, the air is fresh, and the passenger flow is low. If you choose to go there in summer and winter, you'll have the opportunity to see the wonders of the sea of clouds and natural snow views.
• Travel Tips: Here are the main popular hiking routes in Huangshan. One is the eastern steps, which are more accessible, shorter, and suitable for a day trip. Another is the western steps, which are longer and more challenging and offer more scenic views. If you feel tired during the hike, consider taking the cable car to save time and energy and enjoy the more picturesque parts.

Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival

Every winter, the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival brings a magnificent ice and snow feast, where you can enjoy various ice and snow activities and experience unique winter fun. Many beautiful buildings are carved out of ice and snow sculptures of multiple shapes. Walking in the ice and snow castle and taking lovely photos should be unforgettable. If you like sports, you can skate, ski, or experience the exciting ice slide and enjoy the collision of speed and passion. Even more interesting are the rich cultural activities and performances, such as ice ballet and ice lantern art exhibitions, where you can experience the artistic atmosphere in the ice and snow world.

• Best Time to Travel: Mid-January to early February is considered the peak season for the festival. During this period, all ice sculptures and snow activities are fully operational, and the festival is in full swing. The official opening ceremony usually takes place around January 5th, and attending this can be a great way to experience the lively celebrations.
• Travel Tips: Because of the cold weather, you'd better wear multiple layers of thermal clothing, and waterproof boots are essential. You can also consider using a mask to protect against the biting cold and wind.

Make Longjing Tea

Cycling around West Lake is an interesting thing to do in China and one of the best ways to explore these beautiful mountains. Cycling on the Bai Causeway and the Su Causeway, you'll discover that this place is perfect for sightseeing and is an ideal relaxing spot. There are many teahouses along the way where you can stop and rest, savor a cup of Longjing tea, and feel the charm of Jiangnan tea culture. During your ride, you can also visit the historical and cultural sites by the lake, such as Leifeng Pagoda, Jingci Temple, and Yue Fei Temple, allowing you to experience its profound heritage. It's a journey wholly immersed in nature, making you discover the charm of Hangzhou through exercise.

• Best Time to Travel: The best time to cycle around West Lake in Hangzhou is spring and autumn, and late March to early May and late September to early November are ideal. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The scenery is also beautiful, with blooming flowers in the spring and vibrant foliage in the autumn, making your cycling experience even more enjoyable.
• Travel Tips: You can rent a bicycle from rental stations around West Lake, and make sure the bike is in good condition and comes with a lock. Remember to wear a helmet when you ride and watch out for pedestrians, especially in crowded areas.