China's capital is a vast city where imperial history meets modern development. Visitors can explore the Forbidden City, once home to Chinese emperors, and Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. The city also provides access to nearby sections of the Great Wall.
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China things to see and do
Tourist offices
China National Tourist Office (CNTO) in the UK
Address: 71 Warwick Road, London, SW5 9HB, United Kingdom
Tel: (020) 7373 0888 or 09001 600 188 (brochure request and general information; calls cost 60p per minute).
www.travelchina.gov.cn
China National Tourist Office (CNTO) in the USA
Address: Suite 912, 370 Lexington Ave, New York, NY, 10117, United States
Tel: 1 888 760 8218
www.cnto.org
Beijing
Chengdu
Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and is famous for its relaxed pace of life and distinctive cuisine. It is also home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where visitors can see China's iconic animals. The city serves as a gateway to western China and nearby mountain regions.
Guilin and Yangshuo
This region in southern China is known for its dramatic karst landscapes, with limestone peaks rising from rivers and rice fields. A cruise along the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo is one of the country's most scenic experiences. The area is popular for cycling, hiking and photography.
Hangzhou and West Lake
Hangzhou is known for its natural beauty and historic sites, centred around West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lake is surrounded by gardens, temples and pagodas, creating a landscape that has inspired Chinese art and literature for centuries.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a global financial centre with a distinct identity shaped by its history and location. It offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional markets and natural attractions such as Victoria Peak and surrounding islands. The city also serves as a gateway to southern China.
Huangshan (Yellow Mountains)
Huangshan (Yellow Mountains) Huangshan, in eastern China, is one of the country's most celebrated mountain landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its granite peaks, twisted pine trees and frequent sea of clouds, it has inspired Chinese art for centuries. Well-developed paths and cable cars make the area accessible while still offering dramatic scenery.
Lhasa and the Potala Palace
Lhasa, in the Tibet Autonomous Region, is one of the most culturally significant cities in China. The Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominates the skyline and was once the residence of the Dalai Lama. The city is also home to monasteries and religious sites reflecting Tibetan Buddhism.
Macau
Macau combines Portuguese colonial heritage with modern development and is known for its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city features a mix of European-style architecture, temples and entertainment complexes, reflecting its unique cultural background.
Pingyao
Pingyao is a remarkably well-preserved ancient town in Shanxi Province and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its city walls, traditional courtyard houses and narrow streets offer a glimpse into life during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Unlike larger cities, it retains a more intimate and historic atmosphere, making it one of the best places to experience traditional urban China.
Shanghai
Shanghai is China's largest city and a global financial centre, known for its modern skyline and historic waterfront. The Bund offers views of colonial-era buildings along the Huangpu River, while Pudong is home to some of the world's tallest skyscrapers. The city also features museums, shopping districts and a vibrant food scene.
The Great Wall of China
Stretching thousands of kilometres across northern China, the Great Wall is one of the country's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sections near Beijing, such as Badaling and Mutianyu, are among the most visited, while more remote areas offer a quieter experience.
The Silk Road (northwest China)
The historic Silk Road passes through northwestern China, linking a series of ancient trading cities and desert landscapes. Sites such as Dunhuang's Mogao Caves feature remarkable Buddhist art and murals, offering insight into centuries of cultural exchange.
Xi'an and the Terracotta Army
Xi'an was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and is one of China's historic capitals. Its most famous attraction is the Terracotta Army, a vast collection of life-sized statues buried with China's first emperor. The city also features ancient walls, pagodas and traditional neighbourhoods.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Located in Hunan Province, this park is famous for its towering sandstone pillars, which are said to have inspired the landscapes in the film "Avatar". Elevated walkways and glass bridges offer views across dramatic cliffs and valleys.
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