Top 20 Most Beautiful Places in China 2025
China is a land of stunning diversity, brimming with breathtaking landscapes and cultural landmarks. From the majestic peaks of Huangshan and Mount Everest to the serene Yangtze River cruise, and from cultural treasures like the Great Wall and Terracotta Army to modern skylines like Shanghai's Bund and Hong Kong's Victoria Peak, there's something for everyone.
Here are 20 of the most beautiful places in China you won't want to miss. We can help you craft a personalized journey to explore these unforgettable destinations!
Guilin at dusk
- 1. Yangshuo & Li River, Guilin
- 2. Avatar Mountains, Zhangjiajie
- 3. The Great Wall of China, Beijing
- 4. Lijiang, Yunnan
- 5. The Bund, Shanghai
- 6. The Beautiful Yangtze River
- 7. The Ancient City Wall, Xi'an
- 8. Lhasa, Tibet
- 9. Victoria Peak, Hong Kong
- 10. Mount Huangshan
- 11. Jiuzhaigou Valley, Sichuan
- 12. Shangri-la, Yunnan
- 13. Zhangye Danxia Geopark
- 14. Kanas, Xinjiang
- 15. West Lake, Hangzhou
- 16. Classical Gardens, Suzhou
- 17. Steppes of Inner Mongolia
- 18. Qinghai Lake, The "Lake in the Sky"
- 19. The Ice Snow Festival, Harbin
- 20. Mingsha Mountain, Dunhuang
1. Yangshuo & Li River, Guilin
The Li River in Yangshuo County, Guilin
Yangshuo, a charming countryside town on the western bank of the Li River, is renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and idyllic rural atmosphere. Located 65 km south of Guilin City, it's just a 70-minute bus ride away.
Yangshuo and the Li River make an excellent pair to explore together. A cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, lasting about 4 hours, offers the best way to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Li River. Along the way, you'll marvel at classic karst mountains, crystal-clear sapphire waters, and iconic sights like the Nine-Horse Fresco.
Best Travel Time:
- Guilin is best visited from March to November. In spring (March to May), the weather is warm, peach blossoms and rapeseed flowers bloom along the Li River. This period often sees rain, offering the chance to enjoy the misty beauty of Guilin and the Li River.
- In summer (June to August): Higher temperatures make it ideal for water activities like bamboo rafting on the Yulong River or cycling through Yangshuo's scenic countryside.
- In autumn (September to November): The leaves along the Li River turn yellow, and the Longji Rice Terraces are bathed in golden hues, making it a perfect time for photography.
Travel Tips:
- It is nice to spend 5-7 days in Guilin, with 2 days in Yangshuo and another 2 days in the Longji Rice Terraces. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and experience the charming rural highlights of the region.
2. Avatar Mountains, Zhangjiajie
The Avatar mountains in Zhangjiajie
Nestled in Hunan Province, the Avatar Mountains in Zhangjiajie are very proud of the fantastic towering pillars and mythical clouds of mist. It is definitely a heaven for adventure seekers and nature fans.
The mountains are best known as an inspiration for the majestic floating landscapes in the Hollywood movie "Avatar." It is a can't-miss chance to watch the prototype of the Hallelujah Mountain of "Pandora" in the movie.
You can get to a viewing deck just in front of Hallelujah Mountain for a spectacular sight of the "Southern Sky Column," a landmark pillar rising 3544 feet (1.08 km) into the sky. And the other hundreds of vertical pillars are incredible to see, with lush trees decorating the peaks.
Best Time to Visit:
- The ideal months to visit are April to October, when the mountains come alive with vibrant blossoms or the golden hues of autumn leaves. The mild weather and vivid scenery make these months perfect for exploring.
Travel Tips:
- It takes about 1 hour by car to get to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (home to the Avatar Mountains) from downtown Zhangjiajie. For a more leisurely experience, we recommend staying in a hotel in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area.
- Plan to spend at least 3 days to fully explore the highlights of the Avatar Mountains and visit other iconic sites, such as the famous Heaven's Gate on Tianmen Mountain.Recommended Tour Itinerary
3. The Great Wall of China, Beijing
Mutianyu Great Wall Beijing
A once-in-a-lifetime travel experience for history buffs and hiking enthusiasts worldwide, the Great Wall stands as a timeless icon of China's rich past.
Stretching over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall was originally built as a military defense and is now a testament to ancient ingenuity. Its most famous sections, including Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling, each offer unique charms, from breathtaking natural scenery to well-preserved walls and watchtowers.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are the best times to hike the Great Wall. In spring, blossoming trees and flowers add vibrant colors, while autumn transforms the surrounding mountains into a sea of golden hues. For a quieter experience, the Jinshanling and Jiankou sections provide stunning views and fewer crowds. Badaling, with its well-preserved Ming bricks and watchtowers, is less crowded in April and September, making it a great choice for history lovers.
Travel Tips:
- Most sections of the Great Wall are 1 to 2.5 hours from downtown Beijing, making them easy to reach.
- A typical hiking route takes 1-3 days to explore the highlights of each section, with the unique option to camp overnight for a rare and magical night view of the Wall.
- For an unforgettable experience, plan ahead to avoid peak tourist times, and let our expert guides help you tailor your adventure to your interests.Recommended Tour Itinerary
4. Lijiang, Yunnan
Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang, Yunnan
In the northwest of Yunnan Province, Lijiang is an ancient town with astonishing natural beauty: snow-capped mountains, fascinating canyons, and highland glaciated lakes. It is a treasured destination for adventurous hikers and leisure seekers from busy metropolises.
You can get lost in the cobbled streets of some ancient towns, such as the Old Town of Lijiang and Shuhe Ancient Town. Experience the authentic ethnic minority customs and lives of the Naxi, Bai, Tibetans, and Han. Antique tempo also goes well with natural delight. It's wonderful to hold a panoramic snowy view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the cable car.
If you're more after thrills, go for an exclusive hike through the bushes and across the stream to get more marvelous views. Tiger Leaping Gorge offers distinct charms with many choices of characteristic hiking trails from different heights.
Best Time to Visit:
- From late March to June and September to November, the mildly sunny weather is ideal to wander around Lijiang's old towns and seek out the beautiful blossoming of azaleas in the city. Winter brings a wilder but imposing change to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and three sections of Tiger Leaping Gorge.
5. The Bund, Shanghai
The Bund in Shanghai
The Bund is an iconic waterfront area and a protected historical district on the west bank of the Huangpu River in Shanghai. It has become a must-see attraction for its flourishing modernity, blending the century-old history of both Chinese and Western influences.
You can stroll along the waterfront avenue and marvel at 26 colonial-era western-styled remains, all from the Gothic to the Baroque, the Renaissance to Neoclassicism. And trace the spectacular high rises of the Oriental Pearl Tower, the World Financial Center, and Jin Mao Tower.
Best Time to Visit:
- The Bund in Shanghai is a great destination to visit year-round. However, if you're visiting in summer, it's best to go in the early morning or late evening to avoid the extreme heat.
Travel Tips:
- It is wonderful to take a Huangpu River cruise at night to catch the unique perspective of the Bund, with a mix of illuminated magnificence of century-old buildings and skyscrapers. Besides, spend the rest of the time through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel for exciting entertainment and eating.
6. The Beautiful Yangtze River
The amazing Yangtze River
The Yangtze River Cruise is one of the most relaxing and scenic experiences in China. As you sail along Asia's longest river, you'll marvel at the iconic landscapes of the Three Gorges, visit fascinating sites like Fengdu Ghost City and the Three Gorges Dam, and take in unforgettable views. Onboard, you'll enjoy a perfect mix of comfort, entertainment, and cultural activities, making it an ideal way to immerse yourself in China's natural beauty and rich heritage.
Best Time to Visit:
- The Yangtze River is worth visiting year-round, but the best time is from September to November. During this season, the weather is comfortable, the crowds are smaller than in summer, and the vibrant red foliage along the Three Gorges creates a stunning landscape. November is also a great time for more affordable prices compared to the peak season.
Travel Tips:
- If you book the Yangtze River cruise on your own, you'll need to arrange transportation to the pier, which can be a bit inconvenient. We can provide customized itineraries that include the Yangtze River cruise as part of your China trip, along with private driver and guide services to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.
7. The Ancient City Wall, Xi'an
A tower on the Xi'an City Wall
Xi'an, the former capital of thirteen ancient dynasties, is a city brimming with rich cultural heritage and historical importance. For anyone interested in China's history, a visit to Xi'an is a must. Xi'an City Wall is one of the best-preserved city walls in China, stretching 14 kilometers in length. Cycling along the wall is the most recommended way to explore, offering a unique perspective on both the ancient Chinese architecture and the modern Xi'an skyline.
Best Time to Visit:
- Xi'an is a great destination year-round. If you are traveling in the summer, it's best to visit in the early morning or late evening, as there is little shade on the wall and the heat can be intense during the day.
Travel Tips:
- Avoid cycling on the wall in the evening, as some sections of the road are uneven, making it easy to fall off the bike at night.
- Don't miss the Terracotta Army Museum, an iconic landmark. In the evening, be sure to check out the lively Big Wild Goose Pagoda square and the nearby Great Tang All Day Mall, where you'll find plenty of entertainment and local charm.
8. Lhasa, Tibet
Potala Palace in Lhasa
Lhasa is the capital city of Tibet in the bosom of the Himalayas. It is considered an important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. The Holy City attracts numerous culture enthusiasts to leave for a rewarding spiritual journey through its sacred Tibetan culture.
Lhasa is bright, with a large collection of Buddhist architecture. You will seek out the former splendor of Tibetan kings and Dalai Lamas in the iconic landmark Potala Palace, seeing a house of religious relics and thousands of Thangka paintings. The next view of Jokhang Temple provides opportunities to experience Tibetan Buddhism amidst devout pilgrims, life-giving incense, and flickering butter lamps.
Around the temple is Barkhor Street, which is lined by shops and tea houses for walkers to get the very essence of traditional Tibetan life in Lhasa. There are also many Buddhist monasteries and temples, like Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery, to visit.
Best Travel Time & Tips:
- From June to October is the best time to visit Lhasa because of the warm and sunny daytime that brings clear sapphire-like skies. A classic Lhasa trip is arranged within 4 days. The first two days allow you to visit popular cultural sites downtown, and another two days allow you to enjoy the lake view at its border.
9. Victoria Peak, Hong Kong
Victoria Peak in Hong Kong
Victoria Peak is the highest point at 552 meters above sea level in Hong Kong. Ascending to the top of the mountain, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city's cloud-topping skyline, the marvelously intertwined vistas, and the beautiful Victoria Harbor around you.
You can choose a more awesome cityscape from a higher viewpoint on the Sky Terrace or the Peak Mall. For full immersion into the sightseeing, it is fascinating to ride the Peak Tram or walk up along the park trails to the top, catching a quick overview of the mountain's beauty.
Best Time to Visit:
- The Peak in September and October is less crowded for students back to school and offers a relatively clear sight of the city's skylines and Victoria Harbor due to more sunny days. It is optimal for a half-day tour during which you can top the peak in the middle afternoon in cool weather to wait for the glorious sunset and dazzling night lights of the island.
10. Mount Huangshan
Beautiful Mount Huangshan
Located in southern Anhui Province, Mount Huangshan captivates visitors with its majestic granite peaks, striking rock formations, seas of mist, and uniquely shaped pines. Revered by poets, painters, and photographers throughout history, it is a paradise for trekking and nature lovers. Visitors can take a cable car to ascend the mountain and trek further to its peaks, where you'll encounter peculiar rock formations, "flying-over" stones, and the breathtaking sight of seas of clouds.
Best Time to Visit:
Mount Huangshan is a year-round destination, each season showcasing its own unique beauty. Choose the time that best matches your interests:
- Spring (March to May): A vibrant season when flowers bloom, especially the eye-catching Huangshan rhododendrons.
- Summer (June to August): A cool retreat from the summer heat. Temperatures on the mountain are significantly lower than at its base, making it a comfortable escape even during the hottest months.
- Autumn (September to November): Huangshan is at its most colorful, with trees adorned in vibrant hues. National Geographic has recognized the autumn beauty of southern Anhui, so don't miss Huangshan in this season!
- Winter (December to February): A snowy wonderland. If you're lucky to visit during snowfall, you'll witness a fairytale-like scene with the mountain draped in a blanket of snow.
Travel Tips:
- Huangshan is just 2 to 4 hours from Shanghai by highway, followed by a 1-hour bus or private car ride to the scenic area.
- Summer is a peak travel season. If you plan to stay overnight on the mountain, book accommodations in advance.
- A 3-day trip is ideal to fully explore Mount Huangshan, including its awe-inspiring sunrise and nearby ancient villages like Hongcun.Recommended Tour Itinerary
11. Jiuzhaigou Valley, Sichuan
Jiuzhaigou in Sichuan Province
Nestled in the mountains of Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou is easily accessible from Chengdu, just 1.5 to 2.5 hours away by high-speed train. Alternatively, you can fly to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport and take a bus transfer.
What makes Jiuzhaigou so special? Picture crystal-clear lakes mirroring towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and vivid skies, all coming together in a breathtaking display of natural beauty. With its ancient Tibetan villages and enchanting landscapes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is often called a "fairyland on earth." It's an absolute must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking inspiration.
Best Time to Visit:
- While Jiuzhaigou is open year-round, the most enchanting season is from September to early November. During this time, the blue skies and fiery red autumn leaves create a picture-perfect scene that feels straight out of a postcard.
Travel Tips:
- Autumn is peak season, so high-speed train tickets sell out quickly - be sure to book them in advance! During peak times, it's essential to plan your itinerary ahead. Our experienced guides can customize routes to help you avoid crowds.
- The park has restaurants and drink stalls, but bringing your own water is a good idea. If you need more, you can purchase on-site with cash or mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat.
12. Shangri-La, Yunnan
Pudacuo National Park in Shangri- La, Yunnan
Shangri-La is located in the Yunnan-Tibetan Region, an unspoiled paradise of rustic landscapes and native flavor. The snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, wild gorges, and Tibetan villages and monasteries all form a unique introduction to Shangri-La.
In Yunnan, you can get holy snowy views of Meili Snow Mountain and Baima Snow Mountain. Head to Pudacuo National Park for a sighting of a great variety of wild mammal and bird species. A nice highlight is visiting local villages and Buddhist temples, like Nixi Pottery Village, Dukezong Old Town, and Songzanlin Lamasery (known as the Little Potala Palace), basking in traditional Tibetan life and religion.
Best Time to Visit:
- One of the best times to visit Shangri-la is between May and August, when the flowers are at their peak. You can enjoy verdant grasslands and hillsides blazed with an ocean of fascinating blossoms in many colors. The autumn period (September-October) is best to catch a clearer sight of Meili Snow Mountain and plateau lakes against an awe-inspiring backdrop of blue sky.
Travel Tips:
- Most visitors usually spend 3-4 days exploring the main natural and cultural highlights in Shangri-La and nearby. 5-7 days is feasible if you want a deeper insight into the wider prefecture.
13. Zhangye Danxia Geopark
Zhangye Danxia Landform
Zhangye Danxia Geopark is located in the northwest of Gansu Province, bordering Inner Mongolia in the north. The geopark is stunning for the Danxia landscape (Danxia refers to a special landform featured in red and steep cliffs found in northwest China) and rainbow-like mountains. Usually it takes about 60 minutes to get to the national park from downtown Zhangye.
You can photograph the gorgeous colors of rock formations in various curved layers at the Colorful Danxia scenic spot. Explore BingGou DanXia Landform to discover majestic stone columns wind-eroded in animals, a torch, the Musée du Louvre, and other vivid shapes. Don't miss the painting-like scenery of Snow Mountain, primitive forest, Wetland Lake, waterfall, and gorge in the Yugu scenic corridor. You also have a treasured experience of Yugu ethnic culture and lifestyle.
Best Time to Visit:
- The summer months from July to September are the best time to capture the most vibrant rainbow colors of the park due to the great reflection of the maximum amount of sunlight. We recommend a 3-day exploration of the park, enough to indulge in its picturesque landscape and interesting cultural things.
14. Kanas, Xinjiang
Kanas Lake in Xinjiang
Kanas is a painting-inferior-to-mountain lake amid the deep forests and mountains of Altay in Xinjiang. Thanks to improved accessibility, nature enthusiasts can now easily explore its fairy-tale landscapes. You could take a flight from Urumqi to Kanas Airport in about 1.5 hours and then take an hour's drive to the scenic area.
Kanas Lake is renowned for its ever-changing hues, shifting between crystal blue, gem green, and deep gray depending on the season and surroundings. These vibrant colors, set against picturesque landscapes, create postcard-perfect views year-round.
Nearby, the villages of Hemu and Baihaba are home to the Tuvan tribe, a Mongolian ethnic group. Staying in traditional wooden houses, experiencing Tuvan Lamaism customs, and learning about their centuries-old herding lifestyle are unforgettable cultural highlights.
Best Time to Visit:
- May to October are mildly cool to visit Kanas if you prefer pleasant weather. For breathtaking viewing, you can meet the surreal golden scenery of the birch forests around the diamond-blue river and lake. Two days is ideal to check out the scenery of Kanas Lake and the adjoining primitive villages. It's good to spend more days in Kanas City for historical sights.
15. West Lake, Hangzhou
West Lake in Hangzhou
As the symbol of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, West Lake is praised as "the Heaven on Earth." The fabulous, tranquil lakescape and cultural landmarks around have been drawing numerous poets and artists all the time.
It is dotted with a number of causeways, bridges, pagodas, temples, and pavilions, as well as man-made islands. The sites are enchanting to visit all year, with characteristic scenery in different seasons.
Travel Tips:
- You can photograph the seductive sunrise at the Su Causeway in spring, observe a beautiful pool of swaying lotus flowers in summer, admire a bright full moon over the poetic lake in autumn, or appreciate the snow scenery over the Broken Bridge at Bai Causeway in winter.
- One day is adequate to go through West Lake from many angles by walking, bicycling, or taking a traditional boat cruise.Recommended Tour Itinerary
16. Classical Gardens, Suzhou
Lingering Garden, Suzhou
Elegant in the northwest of Suzhou proper, the Classical Gardens have definitely become the symbol of Suzhou city. There are, in fact, nine of these gardens, which make a symphonic combination of rocks, water, trees, and various types of old buildings.
The most famous of them include Humble Administrator's Garden, Lingering Garden, Master of the Nets Garden, and Lion Grove Garden. They feature a special kind of window on the wall, through which you can enjoy a unique landscape in one room, but when you watch outside from the room, it offers a strikingly different combination of pavilions, bridges, terraces, fountains, rocks, flowers, and trees.
Best Time to Visit:
- It's just fine to appreciate the flowing waterways and exquisite sights of Suzhou's gardens any time of the year, but if you're looking for a more beautiful addition, mid-April to May is excellent to admire the plum and cherry flowers that bloom in the gardens. Each Suzhou garden is located close and can be reached by a short walk or drive, so one day it is possible to browse all their essence.
17. Steppes of Inner Mongolia
Grassland in Inner Mongolia
Inner Mongolia boasts a vast region of rolling grasslands, known as steppes, characterized by breathtaking grassland views and a nomadic way of life.
They hold great appeal for nature lovers and hikers looking to unwind. Visitors can access parts of the steppes, like the Xilamuren Grassland and Huitengxile Grassland, by train through the capital city, Hohhot.
Best Time to Visit:
- The summer months of July and August have the most vibrant grassland views to offer, so that's the best time to visit in a year when the grasslands are lush green. You can expect a dreamy blend of twisting rivers, diamond-like lakes, and a vast blanket of verdant grasses. These months are also busy times for Mongolian Nadam festival activities in the steppes. Traditional wrestling, horse racing, and archery are integral sports to participate in.
Travel Tips:
- Inner Mongolia is an expansive region, and fully exploring all its attractions typically requires at least 10 days. We can tailor a personalized itinerary based on your interests, ensuring you experience the most stunning landscapes and unique cultural highlights of Mongolia.
18. Qinghai Lake, The "Lake in the Sky"
Horses on the grassland around Qinghai Lake
Located in the northwest of Qinghai Province, Qinghai Lake is China's largest inland saltwater lake and the highest-altitude saltwater lake in the world. The lake's jade-like waters are framed by snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands, creating a stunning and majestic landscape. The color of the water shifts throughout the year, influenced by seasonal and weather changes.
Qinghai Lake is also a significant site for Tibetan Buddhism, serving as a cultural and spiritual hub for Tibetan and Tu ethnic communities. You can immerse in the rich local traditions and customs by exploring the surrounding villages and monasteries.
Best Time to Visit:
- The best time to visit Qinghai Lake is from June to August, when the weather is sunny but not too hot. During this period, the canola flowers along the lake bloom in mid-July to early August, creating a golden sea of blossoms that contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the lake.
19. The Ice Snow Festival, Harbin
Ice castle in Harbin Ice and Snow World
The Harbin Ice Snow Festival is a breathtaking winter event that takes place every year in Harbin. Famous for its massive ice sculptures, stunning light displays, and snow-filled landscapes, the festival transforms the city into a magical frozen world. It's a must-see for anyone seeking a true winter wonderland experience.
Best Time to visit:
- The ideal time to visit is from late December to early February, when the Ice Snow Festival is taking place. During the day, you can explore Harbin's cultural landmarks like Central Street and St. Sophia Cathedral. In the evening, head to the Ice and Snow World to see the stunning ice sculptures and enjoy performances such as drone shows and 3D light displays.
Travel Tips：
- Be sure to dress warmly - Harbin can get extremely cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -30°C in the evening.Recommended Tour Itinerary
20. Mingsha Mountain, Dunhuang
Mingsha Mountain in Dunhuang
Nestled in the heart of the Gobi Desert, Mingsha Mountain (Echoing Sand Mountain) and Crescent Lake offer a stunning blend of natural beauty and history, just outside Dunhuang. The area is famous for its vast sand dunes, crystal-clear lake, and the unique auditory phenomenon of the "singing sands," making it a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Visitors can trace the footsteps of ancient Silk Road travelers with a memorable camel ride or motorcycle tour, taking in the tranquil beauty of Crescent Lake, surrounded by Tang-style architecture.
Best Time to Visit:
- The ideal time to visit is from late April to mid-October, when you can enjoy camping behind the dunes to capture breathtaking photographs of the starry skies, sunset, and sunrise. Alternatively, the winter months offer a serene, snow-covered landscape for a quieter experience.
Travel Tips:
- Mingsha Mountain is just a short 6 km drive from downtown Dunhuang. If you have extra time, explore the central town, which is home to rich history and charming architecture.
- For the best experience, plan to spend at least one night camping behind the dunes for an unforgettable stargazing experience.Recommended Tour Itinerary
Custom A Trip to See the Most Beautiful China
China sees great charm that attracts different hobbies of travelers around the world a lot. Whatever you like and expect, these best-known, beautiful places never fail to impress. If you're spoiled by your choice, this guide is for you.
For more beautiful destinations in China, please feel free to contact China Odyssey Tours. We specialize in planning various itineraries for different customers. Just tell us your requirements, or write to us at trip@odynovotours.com and you can enjoy a tailor-made tour based on your preferences that combines natural delight and historical immersion.
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