Why China belongs on your list
China is vast, ancient and endlessly varied. You can stand on a 2,000-year-old wall in the morning and ride a maglev train at 430 km/h the same afternoon. Here are the landmarks and experiences worth planning a trip around.
Walk the Great Wall at Mutianyu
The Mutianyu section near Beijing is restored, less crowded than Badaling, and framed by forested hills. A cable car carries you up and a toboggan brings you back down. Entry is around 45 RMB plus the cable car.
Meet the Terracotta Army in Xi'an
Discovered by farmers in 1974, the Terracotta Army is over 8,000 life-sized soldiers guarding the tomb of China's first emperor. Pit 1, inside a hangar-sized hall, is one of the great sights of the ancient world.
Cruise the Li River around Guilin
The Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo winds past dreamlike karst peaks, water buffalo and bamboo rafts. The scene is so iconic it appears on the 20-yuan note.
Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing
The Forbidden City was home to 24 emperors across 500 years. With nearly 1,000 buildings and golden roofs, it is the world's largest palace complex. Buy tickets online in advance as numbers are capped.
See the giant pandas in Chengdu
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding lets you watch pandas munching bamboo at close range. Arrive at opening time, around 7:30 am, when the pandas are most active.
Marvel at Zhangjiajie's stone pillars
The towering sandstone columns of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. Glass elevators, skywalks and a 430-metre glass bridge add a thrill.
Wander the Bund in Shanghai
Shanghai's Bund lines colonial-era facades against the neon skyline of Pudong across the river. It is best at dusk when the Oriental Pearl Tower lights up.
Stand on West Lake in Hangzhou
West Lake is China's most celebrated scenic lake, ringed by willows, pagodas and causeways. Rent a boat or cycle the shore at sunset.
Take the high-speed train
China's high-speed rail is a sight in itself. The Beijing to Shanghai line covers 1,300 km in about 4.5 hours, smooth and punctual.
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