Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
China, a vast country with countless facets and millennia-old history, is filled with cultural and natural treasures that captivate travelers from around the world. From the mysterious red lands of Yunnan to the great walls of Beijing, each region reveals a unique heritage that testifies to the past and present grandeur of this legendary civilization.
Discovering China also means immersing yourself in the enchanting gardens of Suzhou and strolling along the mythical rivers of Guilin, true masterpieces of nature.
In this article, we explore the must-see tourist sites that paint the fascinating portrait of the Middle Kingdom, inviting us to discover the countless riches of this captivating land.
Exploring China’s Historical Treasures
The Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors embody China’s historical and cultural richness, each offering a unique dive into the country’s imperial history.
| Site | Historical & Cultural Significance | Notable Facts & Anecdotes | Practical Tips | Access & Pricing | Preservation / Cultural Experiences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Wall | Major symbol, built to defend the empire against northern invasions. UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction spanned several dynasties (7th century BC to 17th century). | Reportedly the only man-made structure visible from the Moon (myth); some sections now host marathons or traditional festivals. | Best time: spring/autumn (avoid summer for heat/crowds). Bring comfortable shoes, water, sun protection. | Multiple tourist access points near Beijing: Badaling (most popular), Mutianyu (less crowded), Jinshanling (hiking). Variable prices (~40-60 RMB/section) | Regular restoration at major sites; occasional cultural events like night shows or temporary exhibitions |
| Forbidden City | Imperial palace built under Ming in 1406-1420; residence of emperors for 500 years until 1912. World’s largest wooden architectural complex. UNESCO World Heritage since 1987. | Each color has meaning: red = prosperity, yellow = imperial authority. Bronze guardian lions symbolize power and protect the palace. Exceptional art objects visible in the Palace Museum treasury. | Online ticket reservation mandatory during high season. Best visited early morning or outside Chinese holidays. Use audio guide/guide to understand architectural symbolism. Ideal duration: 3-4 hours minimum. | Entry through Meridian Gate South; exit through North Gate. Adult ticket about 60 RMB high season / 40 RMB low season. Closed Mondays except national holidays. | Constant efforts against pollution/deterioration – ongoing restoration of historical pavilions. Temporary exhibitions of ancient/contemporary Chinese art regularly organized in main halls. |
| Terracotta Warriors | Major discovery near Xi’an dating from 3rd century BC, burial site of Qin Shi Huang, first unifying emperor. Each statue is unique – globally recognized artistic achievement by UNESCO. | Accidentally discovered by farmers digging a well in 1974; estimated over eight thousand warriors still buried! Excavations continue periodically. | Ideal to visit outside summer to avoid heat/humidity and massive crowds during Chinese national holidays. Photography allowed without flash in certain areas. | Site located about 30 km from Xi’an city center; frequent shuttles from main station/tourist buses available (~150 RMB/person). | Complex conservation facing water infiltration/sulfur – on-site laboratory dedicated to permanent preservation/restoration. Immersive shows recounting ancient military life offered certain evenings. |
Additional Practical Tips:
- For all these iconic sites, bring sufficient drinking water.
- Strictly follow local regulations: restricted areas/no photography zones.
- Adjust your visit according to sometimes extreme local weather conditions.
Associated Cultural Experiences:
- The Forbidden City regularly hosts classical Chinese concerts and nighttime historical reenactments.
- Some restored sections of the Great Wall feature sound-and-light shows recounting ancient battles or imperial ceremonies.
- Museums around the Terracotta Warriors site display traditional Qin costumes and interactive explanatory videos.
Exploring these historical treasures offers much more than a simple tourist visit: it’s diving into the very heart of the founding legends that shaped China’s millennia-old identity while experiencing an unforgettable sensory journey among carefully preserved architectural masterpieces
Good to Know:
Explore China’s historical treasures by discovering iconic sites like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors. The Great Wall, symbol of China, stretches over 21,000 km and is ideal to visit in spring or autumn to avoid crowds. The Forbidden City in Beijing, former imperial palace, offers a fascinating glimpse into imperial history; prefer weekday visits for fewer crowds. The Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an, discovered in 1974, are a true archaeological marvel that tells the story of China’s first emperor. These UNESCO World Heritage sites benefit from intensive preservation efforts, and guided tours are particularly enriching for understanding their historical context. Be sure to check prices and schedules as they may vary. Take advantage of local cultural performances, such as traditional dances or craft exhibitions, to complete your immersion in this rich Chinese history.
Breathtaking Natural Wonders
Yellow Mountains (Huangshan)
An iconic Chinese landscape, Huangshan is famous for its sharp granite peaks, twisted pine forests, and frequent seas of clouds enveloping the summits. Visitors can admire spectacular panoramas from suspended walkways, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the light enhances the terrain.
- Best time: spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) to avoid crowds and enjoy mild weather.
- Accessibility: accessible by train or bus from Huangshan City, then cable car or hiking trails to summits.
- Experience: hiking on paved trails, observing mountain landscapes transformed by light and mist, overnight stays in mountain hotels.
Zhangjiajie National Park
This unique site inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. It’s distinguished by its vertiginous sandstone pillars covered in vegetation, often shrouded in mist, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails, suspended walkways, and the famous Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, suspended over 300 meters above the ground.
- Best time: April to November, with preference for spring and autumn for pleasant weather.
- Accessibility: accessible from Zhangjiajie City, with shuttles to various park entrances.
- Experience: hiking, photography, crossing the glass bridge, panoramic views from observation platforms.
Longji Rice Terraces (Longsheng)
These rice terraces sculpt the Guangxi hills into a spectacle that changes with the seasons: vibrant greens in spring and summer, water mirrors during planting, golden in autumn, sometimes snow-covered in winter. Traditional villages of Zhuang and Yao minorities add to the site’s authenticity.
- Best time: May (planting) and September-October (harvest) for spectacular colors.
- Accessibility: bus from Guilin, then walking through villages to reach the terraces.
- Experience: discovering local culture, hiking between villages, panoramic views of the terraces.
Mount Everest (Qomolangma)
The world’s highest peak, Everest stands on the border between China (Tibet) and Nepal. On the Tibetan side, the north base camp offers an unparalleled view of the icy pyramid summit.
- Best time: April-May and September-October, for more stable climate.
- Accessibility: regulated access requiring permits, drivable road to base camp from Lhasa.
- Experience: high-altitude landscapes, Tibetan monasteries, immersion in Himalayan culture.
Jiuzhaigou National Park
Located in northern Sichuan, this park is renowned for its multicolored crystal lakes, spectacular waterfalls, and dense forests. The waters of Five Flower Lake range from turquoise to emerald green, reflecting the surrounding light and vegetation.
- Best time: autumn (October) for vibrant foliage and water clarity.
- Accessibility: flights to Jiuzhaigou-Huanglong, then shuttles to the park.
- Experience: walks on wooden boardwalks, wildlife observation, exploration of fairy-tale landscapes.
| Natural Site | Iconic Landscape | Best Time | Accessibility | Key Experiences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Huangshan (Yellow Mountains) | Granite peaks, pines, sea of clouds | April-May, Sept-Oct | Train/bus + cable car or hiking | Hiking, panoramas, photography |
| Zhangjiajie | Sandstone pillars, mist, glass bridge | April-November | Zhangjiajie City, shuttles | Trails, glass bridge, viewpoints |
| Longji (rice terraces) | Terraces, traditional villages | May, Sept-October | Bus from Guilin, walking | Local culture, hiking, panoramas |
| Everest (Tibet) | Glacial peak, high altitude | April-May, Sept-October | Road from Lhasa, permits | Everest view, Tibetan culture |
| Jiuzhaigou | Multicolored lakes, waterfalls, forests | October | Flight + shuttle | Walks, nature, wildlife observation |
To Experience When Visiting These Wonders:
- Contemplate unforgettable sunrises and sunsets.
- Explore trails between cliffs, pines, and sparkling lakes.
- Discover traditional villages and their crafts.
- Cross suspension bridges offering unique sensations.
- Observe nature in all its diversity: primary forests, waterfalls, rare wildlife.
General Tips:
- Bring clothing suitable for climate variations, especially in mountains.
- Anticipate peak periods to fully enjoy the tranquility of these places.
- Respect local regulations, particularly in protected areas or at high altitude.
These natural wonders offer total immersion in the beauty and diversity of Chinese landscapes, between mystery, grandeur, and serenity.
Good to Know:
In China, the Yellow Mountains of Huangshan offer stunning panoramas, famous for their spectacular granite peaks shrouded in mist and their gnarled pine forests, best explored at sunrise or sunset for magical effect. Zhangjiajie National Park, with its vertiginous rock formations, inspires the fantastic universe of the movie Avatar, and glass walkways provide breathtaking views of these giant pillars; early spring and autumn are the best times to avoid crowds. The Longji Rice Terraces, where harvest echoes resonate during summer and water reflections play with light in winter, offer changing visions with each season. As for the incomparable Mount Everest, access is mainly through Tibet, where May and October guarantee the best climbing conditions for experienced mountaineers. Finally, Jiuzhaigou is a natural gem in northern Sichuan, famous for its mirror-like lakes with surreal hues and majestic waterfalls freezing in winter, best visited in autumn to enjoy the vibrant colors of the surrounding nature. Visitors should be prepared to cover considerable distances on foot and are encouraged to respect the fragile ecological balance of these remarkable sites.
Practical Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
Best Time to Visit China
- Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October): pleasant temperatures, low rainfall, lush vegetation and beautiful colors. Avoid national holidays (especially early October) as sites are very crowded.
- Major cities like Beijing or Shanghai are calmer outside national holiday periods.
Must-Experience Local Traditions
- Tea Ceremony: Participate in a traditional tasting to understand Chinese refinement around tea.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: Taste mooncakes and attend celebrations illuminated by lanterns.
- Chinese Calligraphy: Try this artistic practice in certain temples or local workshops.
- Morning Market: Stroll through a typical market early morning to observe local life.
Recommended Local Transportation
- Subway and city buses in major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou): efficient and economical.
- Chinese high-speed rail (Gaotie) to quickly connect major metropolises like Beijing-Xi’an-Shanghai-Hangzhou.
- Local mobile apps like Didi Chuxing to easily book taxis without language barriers.
| Transport Type | Advantages | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Subway | Fast, frequent | Buy rechargeable card |
| High-Speed Rail | Very fast between cities | Book tickets in advance |
| Bus | Good local network | Prepare route on app |
| Taxi/Didi | Flexible | Check price before trip |
Must-Try Traditional Dishes
- Peking Duck
- Jiaozi (dumplings)
- Sichuan Hotpot
- Lanzhou Noodles
Additional List:
- Roujiamo (Xi’an-style sandwich)
- Xiaolongbao (steamed buns)
- Sweet and Sour Fish
- Baozi
Try exploring different culinary regions: each province has its unique specialties.
Health & Safety Precautions
- Wash hands frequently; carry hand sanitizer
- Avoid tap water; consume bottled water
- Check recommended vaccines before departure
- Beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas
- Follow local rules regarding Covid/masks if still in effect
Recommended Interactions with Local Population
- Learn a few simple words in Mandarin (“hello,” “thank you”), greatly appreciated by locals
- Join a morning tai chi session in a public park with locals
- Engage in conversation with merchants at traditional markets or artisans during cultural workshops
- Politely accept spontaneous invitations to share a family meal or social activity
For an authentic experience, prioritize open-mindedness toward cultural differences and be curious about daily customs!
Good to Know:
To fully enjoy China’s must-see tourist sites, it’s recommended to visit between April and October, when the climate is generally mild and conducive to visits. Participate in traditional festivals like Chinese New Year to experience unique cultural moments. Use high-speed trains to efficiently travel between essential cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. For cuisine, try Peking duck or Shanghai xiaolongbao for an authentic culinary immersion. Stay vigilant about your health by drinking bottled water and carrying a small first aid kit. Finally, engage in conversation with locals, whether in local markets or during a tea ceremony, to better understand this rich and diverse culture.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
