Rising in popularity in recent years, China is a country that is relatively affordable to travel to. Its vast landscape and rich cultural heritage, including the Tang, Han, and Ming Dynasties, are what attract tourists to this beautiful country. There, you can walk the streets and experience the remnants of historical architecture from these dynasties.
If you're not much of a fan of history, China is home to some of the most beautiful cities in the world, with advanced technology. You can visit cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Yunnan, which include top tourist destinations such as the Forbidden City and Zhangjiajie. All of which you can read more about in the article below.
So, whether you've been to China once or many times, there is always more to explore, with each region offering a unique flavour that best represents it. Read on to discover the distinct attractions each city has to offer and the must-visit places.
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Nature
Yunnan (Lijiang/ Shangri-la)
If you're interested in China's ethnic diversity, vast mountainous landscapes, and wide pastures, you must visit the province of Yunnan, specifically Lijiang and Shangri-La. Disconnect to reconnect with nature, and you may even have the chance to meet the magical yak—a long-haired, short-legged, ox-like mammal that looks like it's straight out of a fantasy movie.
In Shangri-La (not the hotel), explore traditional villages adorned with beautiful lanterns, flowers, and more. Try on traditional dress at one of the many clothing rental stores, and enjoy a makeup session and photoshoot against the stunning landscape! It’s truly a unique experience, and the photos make perfect keepsakes from your travels.
Tibet
The journey to Tibet is one you must check off your bucket list. Departing from Xining, you'll embark on a 20-hour journey to Lhasa, with some of the most breathtaking views you'll ever see from a train. You'll find fellow passengers wiping down their train windows to ensure a crystal-clear view during the 20-hour ride. If you're travelling, we encourage you to join in this tradition as an expression of anticipation, even though it’s not a mandatory task.
Some of the areas the train will pass through include Qinghai Lake, Tibet's largest saltwater lake. Next, catch glimpses of Tibetan antelope as the train crosses Hoh Xil, followed by the Kunlun Mountains, also known as the 'Barrier of the Roof of the World.' Afterward, be mesmerised by the Tanggula Mountains, which boast the grandeur of nature. Finally, pass by Cuo Na Lake, where you'll find crystal-clear waters, as it is a high-altitude mountain lake.
Be sure to pre-book your tour in Lhasa, as tourists are discouraged to roam freely. Having a guide is highly recommended, as they will lead you to the most beautiful attractions, show you places to rent traditional Tibetan outfits, and even arrange a photoshoot for you!
Just a reminder: Lhasa is a high-altitude region, which means the air is thinner. Therefore, it's important to listen to your guide and pay attention to your body to avoid high-altitude sickness, which can be very dangerous.
Zhangjiajie
Are you familiar with the famous movie Avatar? Not the one with the monk riding a giant flying penguin-otter, but the one with blue-skinned beings living on an 'out of this world' island called Pandora.
Pandora, as shown in the movie, was largely inspired by China’s famous Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Visiting this place feels like watching this heavily CGI-ed movie come to life, in its natural form. Take a cable car up the mountains and head to Huangshizhai, where you’ll find an observatory deck overlooking Wulingyuan.
Lastly, challenge yourself by taking the Bailong Elevator, a glass elevator mounted on the mountain itself that takes you all the way up!
Harbin
We all know that Harbin is a must-visit destination during winter. Famous for its annual ice sculpture festival at Harbin Ice and Snow World, the city offers exciting activities such as the 500-meter-long ice slide or a ride on the giant Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the snowy landscape. The main attractions are the ice sculptures, which are intricately carved from blocks of ice! Capture magical photos with these sculptures during the festival before it ends!
Since you're there in winter, you can't miss visiting Yabuli Ski Resort to ski or snowboard. Enjoy 4.5 hours of non-stop excitement, with a fully and semi-automated snow-making system that covers all the runs, ensuring your tracks are fluffy and soft. You can also enjoy a romantic “C-Drama” moment by hiring tall, young, and handsome Chinese men to carry you on a ride down the slope.
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Cyberpunk Cities
Chongqing
Apart from its legendary grilled fish and its introduction of mala hot pot to the world, Chongqing is known as a cyberpunk capital, often referred to as 'The 8D City.' This name comes from its complex, multi-dimensional city layout. The city’s unique topography features not only impressive skyscrapers but also mountains, rivers, and varied terrains. While you're there, you have to learn to trust your instincts, as it's a city where you may not always know which level you're on! Explore the city's iconic 'different level' buildings, such as the Kui Xing building, where the ground level of a bustling street is actually the 22nd floor of another building!
Night scenes in Chongqing are a must-see as well, with places like Hongya Dong lighting up beautifully at night. If you have astigmatism, it's best to wear your glasses for the best experience. Lastly, take the cable cars and trains that run through the middle of buildings. This place feels straight out of a sci-fi movie, and we’re excited for you to visit!
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Chengdu
Welcome to the land of pandas! Chengdu is also known as the 'happiest city in China' (we believe it’s because of the pandas). It is a well-developed city, and many people visit for its cultural outdoor museums and cuisine. Moreover, Chengdu attracts many students for university exchanges or cultural visits. At night, the city transforms into a sci-fi wonderland, especially with its legendary bamboo waterfall structure, which makes the place feel extra magical and dreamy. Of course, while you're there, you have to see the pandas in action! Home to many giant pandas, the Chengdu Research Base is well-known for its efforts to protect and care for these precious animals.
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Shopping
Shanghai
Visit China’s largest city and global financial hub, Shanghai! This vibrant metropolis is like an expanded and upscale version of Singapore, but richer in culture and history. Enjoy cuisines from all over the world, including famous dishes from different cities in China. Business here is always buzzing, as the city never seems to sleep! Shanghai is also home to Disneyland Park, where you can take your little ones for a day of fun.
You’ll also find popular luxury brands like Chanel, Burberry, and more in the city's many shopping malls and streets! Be sure to dress fashionably while you’re there, as Shanghainese people are known for their love of fashion and trends.
If you want a short getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Suzhou for a day trip. Experience traditional rowboats, quaint shop houses, and greenery in this charming town, often compared to Europe’s Venice.
Guangzhou
If you’re a shopaholic who loves buying clothes, you absolutely have to visit Guangzhou, the city that supplies clothing to almost every part of the world! Be sure to check out its multiple warehouses, where you can find affordable pieces. Don’t miss out on walking streets like Dongshan Kou, home to many local brands selling street fashion and keepsakes. At Beijing Lu, take in the beautiful Dafo Temple, which lights up spectacularly at night—perfect for pictures!
Lastly, continue your shopping adventure at underground shopping malls like Shi Shang Tian He, which is similar to our local Bugis Street, but on a much larger scale. Expect to find affordable clothing, accessories, and even the popular Wosado Eyelash outlet!
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Spicy Food
Sichuan
Sichuan, with its capital Chengdu, offers a myriad of flavours in its cuisine. Due to its humid climate, Sichuan is the perfect place to grow peppercorns, making it the home of the famous 'Sichuan Peppercorn,' used in popular dishes like Mala Hot Pot, Mapo Tofu, and more. Most dishes here are spicy and often quite oily, such as Sichuan Hot Pot. Therefore, it’s a good idea to drink tea with these heavy meals to aid digestion and reduce greasiness. So, if you’re a fan of spicy food, Sichuan is a must-visit!
Chongqing
Similar to Sichuan, Chongqing is well-known for its beef tallow oil-based hot pot soup, instead of the usual vegetable oil. This gives the soup base a stronger flavour, which is different from what we usually enjoy in Singapore. However, if you love hot pot, Chongqing is a must-visit, as it is famous for its unique hot pot seasoning, Chongqing noodles, and Hot and Sour Glass Noodles. Lastly, Chongqing is also known for the popular La Zi Ji (Chicken with Chilli), a dish featuring cubed chicken stir-fried with an immeasurable amount of red peppercorns. This is the perfect destination for those with a stronger taste palate!
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History & Cultural
Beijing
The capital of modern China, Beijing is well known for its many historical landmarks. There are currently eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Beijing alone, most of which are tourist-friendly and a must-visit at least once in your lifetime. Notable sites include the Great Wall, which was constructed under the order of Qin Shi Huang and lasted all the way until the Ming Dynasty. It is still considered the largest military structure to date. Next, visit the Forbidden City, home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties, where you can glimpse their royal thrones, sleeping quarters, and more.
While you’re in Beijing, don’t forget to try their famous Peking Duck, which is served sliced in front of you and requires a special way to enjoy it. First, dip the duck skin in a little sauce or sugar, then spread the sauce on a spring roll skin. Add the duck along with condiments like cucumber, scallions, or melon. Roll it up and enjoy. The remaining duck meat can be cooked however you prefer, either stir-fried or stewed. It’s definitely a must-try when you visit Beijing.
Shaanxi – Xi'an
Xi'an is the capital of Shaanxi, and it is also home to the legendary Terracotta Army, one of the Eight Wonders of the World. These pottery soldiers all have unique facial features and expressions and were discovered relatively recently, in 1974, by farmers digging a well!
The Terracotta Army is believed to have been created as an afterlife guard for China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Known for his power and ruthlessness, Qin Shi Huang wanted to continue his reign even in the afterlife. As a result, he ordered craftsmen and artists from across the country to create these pottery soldiers and war horses to be buried with him when he died.
This site is a must-visit for anyone who loves history and wants to learn more about the early days of China's reign. In Xi'an, you can also visit the Shaanxi History Museum, which houses 1.7 million exhibits that provide an overview of thousands of years of Chinese history.
Shanxi – Pingyao
Pingyao, also known as Pingyao Ancient City, is a walled city in Shanxi, built during the early Ming Dynasty. This city has been exceptionally well-preserved since the 14th century and provides a pristine example of what a traditional Han Chinese city looked like. It showcases the evolution of architectural styles and town planning in ancient China over five centuries. If you enjoy watching ancient costume dramas or old Chinese films, this place is a must-visit.
China is always full of surprises, offering great food, rich history, and scenic views across different parts of this beautiful nation. If you haven’t yet visited China, we encourage you to explore the cities first to familiarise yourself with its people, culture, communication styles, and modes of transport. We wish you a joyful travel experience in China!
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