China, with its millennia-old cultural heritage and the world's 4th largest land area, is always an intriguing travel destination. Let's discover the top tourist spots in China that are currently enchanting travel enthusiasts with VNTRIP.
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China stands as one of the most magnificent architectural feats in human history, making it a renowned destination drawing a vast number of tourists to China. This colossal wall, constructed from the 5th century BCE to the 16th century CE, was initially built to protect China from invasions by the Huns, Mongols, Turks, and various nomadic tribes.
This structure includes walls, moats, and barriers spanning a length of over 8,000 km, stretching across more than 15 provinces of China. The widest part of the Great Wall is approximately 30 m wide, the tallest part is 3.65 m, and the watchtower peaks can reach up to 7.9 m, entirely built with earth and manpower over nearly 2000 years.
Today, it is not just a symbol but also a source of pride for the Chinese people, a must-visit among the top tourist destinations in China. The Great Wall showcases a history of thousands of years of resisting external invaders to build the powerful nation of China we see today.
Forbidden City
When mentioning tourist destinations in China, the Forbidden City in Beijing cannot be overlooked.
This is the oldest imperial palace in the world, recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. Built during the Ming Dynasty in 1406, this palace covers an area of 720,000 km2, twice the size of the Vatican and three times the size of the Kremlin in Russia. The Forbidden City is a magnificent residence of Chinese emperors, with 24 emperors having lived here during their reigns. With its vast area, it includes over 9,000 rooms equipped with all the necessary facilities for the ruling dynasties.
Not only significant culturally, but this is also an architecturally remarkable structure that fills the Chinese people with pride. Currently, the Forbidden City is preserved and open to visitors, but only a part of this magnificent and splendid complex.
Visitors can come here at any time of the year, but autumn is considered the most suitable time to visit when the Forbidden City appears magnificently amid the serene autumn weather of Beijing.
The Bund in Shanghai
This is a location featured in many Chinese films. Shanghai is one of the busiest ports in the world.
Here, amidst the cultural fusion and remarkable economic development of recent years, you can indulge in modernity. Modern buildings with famous architecture, upscale restaurants, and elegant eateries are all present here. Along a mere 2 km stretch, there are over 50 skyscrapers with different architectures. Nearby, you'll find the Oriental Pearl Tower and various structures with ancient architecture interspersed, creating a modern space without losing the unique charm of the area.
Yu Garden
Known as the Summer Palace, this place is about 15km from the center of Beijing, making it very convenient to visit. Yu Garden is also considered a symbol of traditional Chinese garden art.
This place, with its palaces surrounded by gardens, often appears in Chinese films, making visitors feel like they are stepping into a movie world. With such tranquil scenery, this place was often visited by kings and emperors of old for relaxation.
Hanging Monastery
While not the only hanging monastery, this one situated on Mount Heng in Son Tay province is one of the more famous travel destinations in China.
The architecture of the temple is incredibly unique, resembling flowers blooming on the steep mountain slopes. Huyen Khong Temple leaves every visitor in awe and admiration.
Lac Son Great Buddha
Situated on Mount Langshan in Xuyên province, China, this is the largest stone Buddha statue in the world.
Not only a famous tourist destination, but it is also a spiritual haven for the Chinese people through many generations. The construction of the Buddha statue began in 713 with the initial wish that all passersby would be safe and prosperous. Visitors can also hear vivid stories about the Buddha statue and its colossal construction process.
Nine-Bend River
Nine-Bend River is the natural conservation park in Xuyên province, China, renowned for its breathtaking scenery resembling a heavenly painting, making it one of the most beautiful landscapes in China.
Enveloped by lush greenery, Nine-Bend River offers an incredibly serene space with seasonal changes in foliage, each season showcasing its unique beauty. Unlike other tourist spots where weather considerations matter, you can visit Nine-Bend River any time of the year as each season exudes charm, consistently voted as one of the most beautiful places in China.
Moon Lake Waterfall
Moon Lake Waterfall stands out as it is situated amidst the Gobi Desert, in the province of Gansu. This water oasis in the middle of the desert is a natural marvel. Witnessing this scene in person is the only way to believe it's not a photoshopped image; it genuinely exists in China.
This beautiful oasis is like a paradise in the middle of the desert. Within the vast expanse of a desert, the oasis, with its garden and lush greenery, attracts numerous tourists seeking a serene escape.
Dragon Gate Cave
Located in Hubei province, this is one of the most exquisite ancient carvings in China.
With over 2000 caves and more than 100,000 meticulously carved stone Buddha statues, this place is a testament to ancient craftsmanship. The sculptures and caves have been intricately preserved to this day.
Tomb of Qin Shi Huang
The Tomb of Qin Shi Huang is one of the most significant historical landmarks in China, located in Shaanxi province.
This tomb boasts a grand scale with over 8000 terracotta statues representing various officials, soldiers, horses, and close associates of Qin Shi Huang. Witnessing this in person unveils the magnificence of this structure and offers deeper insights into China's millennia-old history.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
This park is located in Zhangjiajie city, Hubei province of China, boasting majestic natural scenery resembling a fairyland.
Especially, the park features towering quartzite columns alongside lush greenery. You can take in the panoramic view from the 430m-long glass-bottom bridge suspended 300m above, providing an exhilarating experience for adventurous travelers standing amid the clouds.
Phoenix Ancient Town
Situated alongside the Dajiang River in Hubei province, this is a picturesque ancient town that has recently gained popularity among Vietnamese youth.
Phoenix Ancient Town peacefully rests along the Dajiang River with small houses resembling ancient Chinese paintings. Numerous bridges span across the river, with the most famous being the Hongqiao Bridge with a protective roof. Stepping into this place, you'll feel like entering ancient Chinese tales, making it a destination that won't disappoint.
Above are some incredibly famous travel destinations in China. If you get the chance to visit China, make sure to explore these places to gain a deeper understanding of China's millennia-old culture.