10 Wonderful Places to Visit in China for First-Time Visitors

Liputan6.com, Jakarta China is one of the largest countries in the world with a rich history and diverse culture. For first-time travelers, it offers many unique experiences, from ancient cities to natural wonders that will make your journey unforgettable.

China offers a unique mix of thousands of years of history and modern growth. You can explore traditional temples, walk through historic landmarks, and also enjoy lively cities filled with new ideas. This balance of old and new makes the country a memorable destination.

If you are planning your first trip to this beautiful country, here are some of the best places to visit in China you can add to your travel plan.

Beijing is the capital of China and a great place to start your trip. The city is home to important historical sites such as the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. You can also explore Tiananmen Square and enjoy traditional food like Peking duck. The city is well connected, making it a good base for seeing nearby attractions, including sections of the Great Wall.

Xi’an is one of the oldest cities in China and was the starting point of the Silk Road. Its most famous attraction is the Terracotta Army, a massive collection of life-sized statues that guarded the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. You can also walk along the ancient city walls and visit the lively Muslim Quarter, where local food and cultural traditions bring the city’s long history to life.

The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It stretches across mountains and valleys for thousands of kilometers and was built to protect ancient China from invasions. Near Beijing, you can visit restored sections like Badaling and Mutianyu, where you will see its strong design and breathtaking scenery. Each part of the wall shows a different view of its long history.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is known for its tall sandstone pillars, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The park offers unique landscapes with misty peaks, dense forests, and crystal streams. Adventurous travelers can explore its hiking trails or cross the glass bridge, one of the longest in the world. The views here are unlike anywhere else in China and make the park unforgettable.

Shanghai is China’s largest city and a lively mix of modern and traditional culture. The Bund is a famous riverside area where you can see skyscrapers on one side and colonial-era buildings on the other. Yu Garden offers a look at classical Chinese design, while Nanjing Road is one of the busiest shopping streets in the world. A river cruise along the Huangpu River gives a great view of the city lights at night.

Guilin and Yangshuo are known for their beautiful karst mountains and peaceful rivers. A cruise along the Li River gives you unforgettable views of limestone peaks and small villages along the banks. Yangshuo offers outdoor activities like cycling through rice fields and exploring caves. Both towns provide a more relaxed atmosphere compared to big cities, making them ideal for enjoying nature and traditional Chinese countryside life.

Chengdu is famous as the home of giant pandas, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the best place to see them up close. The city is also known for its delicious Sichuan food, especially spicy hotpot. You can relax in traditional teahouses or visit cultural sites like Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Street. Chengdu’s calm atmosphere and love for pandas make it a special destination.

Jiuzhaigou Valley is a natural reserve in Sichuan known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snowy mountains. The crystal-clear water reflects different shades of blue and green, creating a magical view. In autumn, the valley becomes even more beautiful with red and yellow leaves. Tibetan villages in the area also give you a chance to learn about local traditions and culture while enjoying the peaceful environment.

Fenghuang, also known as the Phoenix Ancient Town, is a small town with a rich history and well-preserved architecture. Wooden houses built on stilts line the Tuo River, creating a quiet and traditional atmosphere. You can walk along its stone-paved streets, explore old temples, and see local crafts. At night, the riverside lights reflect beautifully on the water, giving the town a charming and peaceful feeling.

Hangzhou is famous for West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by gardens, temples, and pagodas. A boat ride on the lake gives you a peaceful view of its natural beauty. The city is also known for Longjing tea, grown in nearby plantations where you can enjoy fresh tea. Hangzhou combines cultural history with natural scenery, making it one of the most relaxing places to explore in China.