Important Cities to Visit in China
Discover China’s historic capitals, vibrant modern cities, cultural centres and spectacular natural landscapes with practical guidance for independent travellers.
China is a vast country with cities that offer very different travel experiences. From the Great Wall and ancient imperial palaces to futuristic skylines, traditional gardens and dramatic mountain scenery, choosing the right destinations can make your journey more rewarding.
This guide introduces eight well-known destinations, what makes each one distinctive and the key places and experiences to consider when planning your itinerary.
Explore China’s Major Destinations
Select a city to explore its attractions and travel highlights.
Beijing — The Historic Capital
Beijing is a major destination for travellers interested in China’s imperial history, architecture and cultural heritage. As the country’s capital, it combines monumental historic sites with modern urban life.
Top attractions
- Great Wall of China: Visit sections such as Mutianyu or Badaling for views of this historic defensive structure.
- Forbidden City: Explore the former imperial palace complex and its extensive courtyards and halls.
- Tiananmen Square: A large public square surrounded by significant national landmarks.
- Temple of Heaven: A historic complex known for its architecture and landscaped grounds.
- Hutongs: Discover traditional narrow lanes and neighbourhood life.
- Summer Palace: Explore gardens, lakes and historic buildings.
Ideal for: History, architecture, cultural heritage and first-time visitors to China.
Shanghai — The Modern Metropolis
Shanghai is known for its striking skyline, international atmosphere, shopping districts and historic waterfront. It offers a view of modern urban China alongside older neighbourhoods and architectural heritage.
Top attractions
- The Bund: A waterfront promenade with views of historic buildings and Pudong’s skyline.
- Shanghai Tower area: Explore the modern skyscraper district in Pudong.
- Yu Garden: A classical Chinese garden in the old city area.
- Nanjing Road: One of the city’s best-known shopping streets.
- French Concession: Explore tree-lined streets, cafés, boutiques and historic architecture.
- Shanghai Museum: Discover Chinese art and cultural collections; check current branch locations and access arrangements.
Ideal for: Modern architecture, shopping, food, museums and urban experiences.
Xi’an — The Ancient Imperial City
Xi’an was the capital of several Chinese dynasties and is closely associated with the ancient Silk Road. It is an important destination for visitors interested in archaeology and China’s early imperial history.
Top attractions
- Terracotta Army: See the famous life-sized figures created to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor.
- Xi’an City Wall: Walk or cycle along sections of the historic fortification.
- Muslim Quarter: Explore a lively area known for street food and local markets.
- Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: Visit a significant Buddhist landmark.
- Shaanxi History Museum: Learn about the region’s history through archaeological and cultural collections; verify booking arrangements.
Ideal for: Archaeology, ancient history, heritage and local cuisine.
Chengdu — Pandas, Culture & Sichuan Cuisine
Chengdu is known for its relaxed lifestyle, teahouse culture, Sichuan food and giant panda conservation. It also serves as a gateway to destinations across Sichuan province.
Top attractions
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Learn about giant pandas and conservation work.
- People’s Park: Experience local leisure culture and traditional teahouses.
- Jinli Ancient Street: Explore traditional-style streets, shops and snacks.
- Wuhou Shrine: Visit a historic site associated with the Three Kingdoms period.
- Wide and Narrow Alleys: Discover restored historic lanes, cafés and shops.
Ideal for: Food, pandas, cultural experiences and a more relaxed city visit.
Guilin & Yangshuo — China’s Scenic Landscapes
Guilin and nearby Yangshuo are famous for karst mountain formations, rivers and rural landscapes. This region offers a contrast to China’s large, densely populated cities.
Top attractions and experiences
- Li River: Enjoy scenic views of limestone peaks and river landscapes.
- Yangshuo: Explore countryside, traditional villages and scenic rural roads.
- Reed Flute Cave: Discover limestone formations inside a well-known cave.
- Elephant Trunk Hill: See a distinctive natural rock formation in Guilin.
- Countryside cycling: Explore rural scenery along suitable local routes.
Ideal for: Nature, photography, river scenery, cycling and outdoor activities.
Hangzhou — West Lake & Traditional Gardens
Hangzhou is known for West Lake, classical gardens, temples and tea-growing landscapes. Its cultural attractions and natural scenery make it a popular destination for a slower-paced visit.
Top attractions
- West Lake: Explore lakeside paths, gardens, bridges and scenic viewpoints.
- Lingyin Temple: Visit one of the region’s best-known Buddhist temples.
- Longjing Tea Village: Discover tea plantations and learn about local tea culture.
- Leifeng Pagoda: Enjoy views over West Lake and learn about local legends.
- Hefang Street: Browse traditional-style shops, food stalls and cultural displays.
Ideal for: Scenic walks, gardens, tea culture, history and photography.
Chongqing — The Mountain City
Chongqing is built across hilly terrain near the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Its layered streets, elevated transport, bridges and illuminated skyline create a distinctive urban landscape.
Top attractions
- Hongya Cave: A multi-level complex with traditional-style architecture and river views.
- Jiefangbei: Explore a busy central shopping and commercial district.
- Liziba Station: See the well-known monorail station integrated into a residential building.
- Yangtze River Cableway: Experience a cableway crossing with city and river views, subject to operations.
- Ciqikou Ancient Town: Explore historic-style streets, shops and local food.
Ideal for: Urban photography, night views, food and unusual city landscapes.
Guangzhou — Cantonese Food & Southern Culture
Guangzhou is a major city in southern China with a long history of trade, distinctive Cantonese cuisine and a mix of historic landmarks and modern architecture.
Top attractions
- Canton Tower: A prominent landmark with panoramic city views from observation areas, subject to ticketing and operations.
- Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: Explore traditional architecture, wood carvings and decorative arts.
- Shamian Island: Walk through a neighbourhood known for historic architecture and tree-lined streets.
- Yuexiu Park: Visit a large urban park with historic features.
- Beijing Road: Explore a popular shopping and pedestrian area.
Ideal for: Food, shopping, architecture, history and southern Chinese culture.
How to Choose Cities for Your China Trip
The destinations you select will depend on your interests, available time, travel season and preferred pace. Here are some ways to group cities by experience.
- History and heritage: Beijing and Xi’an.
- Modern city life: Shanghai and Chongqing.
- Nature and landscapes: Guilin and Yangshuo.
- Food and local culture: Chengdu and Guangzhou.
- Gardens and scenic relaxation: Hangzhou.
For a first visit, consider limiting the number of cities so you have enough time to experience each destination rather than spending most of your trip in transit.
Plan Your Journey Between Cities
Once you have selected your destinations, plan how to travel between them. China’s intercity transport network includes high-speed trains, conventional rail, domestic flights and long-distance buses. The most suitable option depends on the route, schedule, budget and your travel preferences.
Read our Transport in China guide for information on trains, flights, metro systems and buses.
Essential Travel Preparation
- Check visa and entry requirements for your nationality.
- Confirm opening hours, entry rules and advance booking requirements for attractions.
- Save hotel addresses and destination names in Chinese characters.
- Prepare your internet connection and essential travel applications.
- Review local weather and seasonal conditions for each destination.
- Plan intercity journeys and allow time for transfers.
- Keep copies of bookings, travel documents and important addresses.
Related China Travel Guides
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Back to Eastern Compass Home China Travel SurvivalAttractions, opening hours, ticketing, access arrangements and local travel services can change. Verify current details through official destination or attraction sources before travelling.