Introduction
China is a land of ancient wonders, filled with surprising, and landscapes that feel straight out of a fantasy movie. It’s massive, diverse, and packed with history. it takes a month to explore every unique thing in china But if it’s your first time? Where do you even start?
This country has everything—from towering skyscrapers to misty mountains, and ancient temples to futuristic cities. So, we’ve narrowed it down and everything you must know The 10 best places to visit in China for first-time travellers. China has a mix of history, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery. Pack your bags. Adventure awaits.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in China
1. Beijing – The Heart of China
China’s capital Beijing is where it all begins. The cultural epicentre. Walk through the Forbidden City where a palace so massive it feels endless. Stand in Tiananmen Square, surrounded by history. And of course—the Great Wall. Hike along its ancient stones, feeling the weight of centuries beneath your feet.
At night in China’s restaurant Try Peking duck. It is incredibly juicy, crispy, and memorable. This is the greatest location to experience China’s past and present in one city. Every traveller experiences it whenever they visit first time.
2. Xi’an – Home of the Terracotta Warriors
The first Chinese emperor constructed a whole army out of clay more than 2,000 years ago. Today, those warriors still stand in Xi’an, frozen in time. It looks like unreal.
But there’s more to explore like Bike along Xi’an’s Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved in the world. Wander through the Muslim Quarter, where the smell of grilled lamb skewers fills the air. History lives here. And it’s waiting for you to wander here.
3. Zhangjiajie – The Avatar Mountains
Ever seen the movie Avatar? Those floating mountains exist in china. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is like stepping into another world. Towering sandstone pillars stretch into the sky, mist weaving between them. Surreal. Ride the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, straight up a cliffside.
If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in China for first-time travellers who love nature. Zhangjiajie is calling.
4. Guilin & Yangshuo
The Li River. One of the most famous views in China. Misty mountains rise from the water like something out of an ancient painting. Take a river cruise and soak it in.
Yangshuo, just nearby, is perfect for exploring on a bike. Rice paddies, tiny villages, peaceful countryside. Slow down there for a while Breathe this place and make it memorable. This is China’s beauty at its purest.
5. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
China’s Most Beautiful Mountain Sunrise at Huangshan Unreal. This mountain is famous for its sea of clouds, twisted pine trees, and dramatic cliffs. It’s a bit of a hike, but the reward Views feel like stepping into a dream.
Stay overnight on the mountain. Wake up early. Watch as the sun rises, turning the sky gold and pink. It’s one of the best places to visit in China for first-time travellers who want a mix of adventure and stunning landscapes.
6. Shanghai
Shanghai is fast, loud, and alive. A city that never stops moving. Walk along The Bund, where old European buildings face off against futuristic skyscrapers. You can’t miss taking the elevator to the top of Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world.
Want something quieter? Explore Zhujiajiao Water Town. Narrow canals, ancient bridges, tiny tea shops. Old China, hidden within the city. Shanghai proves that China isn’t just ancient—it’s the future, too.
7. Chengdu – Home of Giant Pandas
Chengdu is famous for the Panda living there. Chengdu is one of the best places to visit in China for first-time travellers because, well, where else can you see giant pandas up close? Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where these adorable creatures eat, play, and nap (a lot).
But Chengdu isn’t just pandas. The food of this place is Incredible. Spicy Sichuan hotpot will set your mouth on fire—but in the best way. Slow down. Savour the flavours. That’s the Chengdu way.
8. Hangzhou – The City of Heaven
There’s a saying in China: “Above is heaven, below is Hangzhou.” And when you see West Lake, you’ll understand why. Take a boat ride across the lake at sunset. Wander through tea plantations. Visit the ancient Lingyin Temple, where monks still chant.
Hangzhou is poetic, serene, and incredibly lovely. Ideal for those who wish to see China’s more kind side for the first time.
9. Lijiang – A Step Back in Time
Ever walked through a town that feels frozen in history? That’s Lijiang. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of cobblestone streets, wooden bridges, and red lanterns. Nearby, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain looms in the distance.
If you want to experience China’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and ancient traditions, Lijiang is the place.
10. Hong Kong – A Gateway to China
Technically, Hong Kong is its own Special Administrative Region. But for many travellers, it is one of the best places to visit in China. Skyline views from Victoria Peak. Bustling night markets selling everything from dim sum to designer bags. A mix of East and West, old and new.
And let’s talk about the food. Dim sum in Hong Kong is a must-try. For first-time travellers who want a mix of urban energy, culture, and easy access to China’s mainland—Hong Kong is perfect.
Final Thoughts
China is massive. You can’t see it all in one trip. But these 10 best places to visit in China for first-time travellers? They give you a taste of everything. History, Nature. and Culture are everything. A little bit of magic. So, where will you go first?