We've put together 10 wonderful experiences we think you'll absolutely love.
China's famous landmarks are unforgettable, from the Terracotta Warriors to the Forbidden City. But some of the most magical moments happen in the places fewer travellers go. The quiet corners, the unexpected adventures, the experiences that make you smile and say, "Wow, this is amazing."
To help you explore China in a more meaningful way, we've put together 10 wonderful experiences we think you'll absolutely love.
Hike an Untouched Stretch of the Great Wall
Everyone knows the Great Wall, but few travellers get to see its quieter, more authentic side. At Jinshanling, you can enjoy a scenic hike along an unrestored stretch where nature and history blend beautifully.
As you walk along the old stone paths, some crumbling, some dotted with wild greenery, you'll have peaceful views of the Wall sweeping across the mountains. With so few visitors, it's a wonderfully calming and memorable way to experience this world wonder.
Explore the Mystical Town of Shangri-La
In the northwest of Yunnan lies Shangri-La, a serene and beautifully preserved town where time seems to move a little slower. With far fewer visitors than China's busy hubs, it offers an authentic glimpse into Tibetan-inspired life.
As you stroll through its charming old streets, you'll find traditional Tibetan houses with wooden beams and shingle roofs. All set against the backdrop of the Himalayas. A visit to the peaceful Songzanlin Monastery is a true highlight, as is exploring the surrounding countryside filled with rolling mountains and stunning ice-blue lakes.
Discover the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival
Every winter from January to February, the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival transforms northern China into a glittering wonderland. Located about 770 miles north of Beijing, this beloved event has been welcoming visitors since 1963 and is now the largest ice and snow festival in the world.
If you'll be in China during the winter months, a visit to Harbin offers a truly magical experience. The softly glowing ice castles, gentle winter ambience, and joyful atmosphere make it a destination that leaves a warm impression long after your trip. It's a beautiful choice to add to your itinerary.
Travel on a Stunning Train Journey
China is a vast country while many travellers choose the flight. There's something truly special about experiencing the country by train. Travelling at a slower pace allows you to take in breathtaking landscapes, share moments with locals, and see a side of China that often goes unnoticed.
One of the most unforgettable journeys is the Beijing to Lhasa railway, the highest railway in the world. Climbing to over 5,000 metres above sea level and crossing the permafrost of the Tibetan Plateau. This route offers panoramic views that feel almost otherworldly. Another scenic favourite is the Nanning to Guilin route, where dramatic karst peaks rise sharply from the landscape, creating picture-perfect scenery at every turn.
Unearth the Wonders of the Silk Road
The Silk Road is more than just an ancient trade route; it's a journey through centuries of adventure and mysticism. Goods, ideas, and religions once travelled along this legendary network. Its influence can still be felt today in cities like modern Xi'an.
Exploring the Chinese section of the Silk Road offers a fascinating mix of sights and experiences. Wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter at the route's start. Admire the serene Buddhist temples of Lanzhou, stand at the western end of the Great Wall in Jiayuguan, and marvel at the sweeping Gobi Desert. Don't miss the bustling Sunday Market in Kashgar, where history comes alive through local crafts, food, and culture.
Cycle Through the Scenic Roads of Yunnan
Cycling is a wonderful way to slow down, explore at your own pace and uncover hidden corners of a country. In Yunnan province, this is especially true. The region's stunning landscapes reveal a side of China that many travellers never see.
One of the most popular routes runs from Dali to Xizhou Ancient Town. Along the way, you'll cycle beside the shimmering Erhai Lake, framed by dramatic mountains, and pass through charming villages. With scenery like this at every turn, it's an experience that's as relaxing as it is unforgettable.
Panda Volunteering
Few travel moments are as special as meeting giant pandas. At the famous Chengdu centre, you can watch pandas of all ages relaxing in leafy habitats. But for a deeper and more meaningful experience, we love recommending the Dujiangyan Panda Base, tucked in the peaceful Sichuan mountains.
Here, you can spend time volunteering doing things such as feeding pandas, helping keep their living spaces tidy, and learning how this important conservation work protects the species. It's gentle, uplifting, and truly unforgettable. You'll even have the chance to take a photo with a young panda.
Step Onto a Stunning Glass Bridge
For travellers who enjoy a bit of adventure with plenty of reassurance! China's glass bridges offer a unique and exciting experience. The Brave Man's Bridge in Hunan gently carries you across a 300-metre glass walkway nestled between cliffs.
In Zhangjiajie National Park, the beautiful 430-metre glass bridge floats above the landscape, offering breathtaking views with every step. It's a memorable way to see China's natural beauty from a completely new angle.
Go Diving in Qiandao Lake
For scuba diving enthusiasts, a trip from Shanghai to Qiandao Lake offers a truly unique experience. Beneath its clear waters lies Shi Cheng, an ancient sunken city also known as Lion City. Submerged for over 50 years, Shi Cheng is a remarkable sight.
As you dive, you'll see its stone city walls adorned with lion carvings. Wander through streets lined with wooden houses, and even spot furniture still intact inside. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure that stays with you long after you surface.
Traverse the Ancient Tea Horse Road
Also known as the Southern Silk Road, the Ancient Tea Horse Road was a network of mountain routes connecting Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou in China before extending towards the Bay of Bengal via Myanmar or Tibet. For centuries, traders carried tea, salt, and Tibetan ponies along these paths.
While the full route is difficult to follow today, many sections still exist, offering a chance to experience China's breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage. Along the way, you'll encounter deep gorges, sparkling lakes, and the vast Tibetan plateau.
Thank you for exploring our list of 10 amazing things to do in China! We hope you're feeling inspired to discover this incredible country for yourself.
We're here to help you plan your perfect holiday. Reach out today via WeChat (ID: Expatsholiday) or Email: [email protected]. Let us create an unforgettable China adventure tailored just for you.
More Trending Topics
No comments:
Post a Comment