Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 181-200 of 356 listings.
Huanglongxi
An ancient town located about 18.6 miles (30 km) southeast from Chengdu, Huanglongxi is named for the Huanglong River, which flows through it. The town consists of seven well-preserved, ancient streets, which were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and also includes three temples: Gulong, Zhenjiang and Chaoyin. These three, along with two others in the immediate area, are what attract visitors to the site. Pay particular attention to the preserved stilt houses (built in levels to hold livestock on the ground floor), which are remnants of the Shu people, as well as the ancient 800-year-old banyan trees.
Also near Huanglongxi are the Ancient Buddha Cave; the Buddha Weir, a narrow, stone-walled canal that leads fish into a closed tank where they can be caught; and an old military encampment called the Old Battlefield. Huanglongxi is also home to cliff tombs, which are burial sites of the Han Dynasty that have received architectural interest in recent years. The picturesque landscape and preserved buildings have also attracted filmmakers (more than 200 movies have been filmed here). With this, Huanglongxi has earned the title of the "Hollywood of China."
Practical Info
Huanglonxi is accessible by bus from either the Jin Sha Bus Station or the Xinnanmen bus station in Chengdu; the trip will take between 70 and 80 minutes. Once you arrive, the town is navigable by foot and admission is free.
Address: Huanglongxi, China
From $ 15
Impression Sanjie Liu
Impression Sanjie Liu is a unique outdoor night show directed by the renowned director, Zhang Yimou and staged at the Li River in Yangshuo. This is the world’s largest natural theater, using the setting of the Li River as its stage and the mist-shrouded karst hills as its backdrop – along with whatever weather the evening may bring.
For this open-aired spectacle, which is performed twice every evening in the summer, the audience watch from designated terraces while hundreds of performers appear to float on the water before them. Most of these performers are fishermen from the villages along the river, and the show itself depicts the story of the history and culture of the local Yangshuo people.
Throughout the performance, impressive lighting, sound, and special smoke effects blend in harmoniously with the natural landscape of the river and its surroundings, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.
Practical Info
Impression Sanjie Liu is situated approximately 1.5 hours’ drive from Guilin city and a kilometer from West Street, It will take around 15-20 minutes to walk from West Street, or five to ten minutes by battery car. Tickets for the show are easily obtained from various hotels and agencies in town.
Address: Tianyuan Road, Guilin, Yangshuo, China
Hours: First run: 7:45pm / Second run: 9:20pm (weather permitting)
Admission: Adult: CNY 198 / Child: CNY 85
From $ 67
Mt. Emei (Emeishan)
At 10,167 feet (3,099 meters), Mt. Emei is the highest of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes over 70 temples, monasteries, and attractions, culminating in the Golden Summit, where visitors can take in the giant Puxian Buddha and stunning mountain views.
The Basics
It’s possible to hike up Mt. Emei, but many visitors choose to take the bus up, and hike or take the cable car the rest of the way. The top attraction at the Golden Summit is the 157-feet-tall (48 meter) statue of the Puxian Buddha facing in 10 directions. There’s also an observation platform to take in the stunning views. With the right timing, visitors might see the “Four Wonders of Mt. Emei”—the Golden Summit Sunrise, the Sea of Clouds, the Divine Lights, and the Buddha’s Halo.
Many visitors staying in Chengdu combine a visit to Mt. Emei with a trip to nearby Leshan Giant Buddha, which is only about 30 minutes away. Such guided tours usually last two days, and it’s possible to add a side trip to see some pandas as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There are separate fees for the mountain, some of the temples, the bus, and the cable car.
- Bring a jacket or warm layers for the top, as it will be much cooler than at the base, even in the summer.
- It often rains at Mt. Emei, so bring an umbrella or a rain jacket.
- Be careful of the monkeys. They can be aggressive and have been known to attack and rob visitors.
How to Get There
Mt. Emei is located 90 miles (145 kilometers) southwest of Chengdu. High-speed trains take about an hour and most depart from Chengdu East Station, with a few departing from Chengdu South Station. Buses depart from the Tourist Bus Station in Chengdu and take about three hours. Visitors then need to take a taxi from Emeishan City to Baoguo Village, at the base of the mountain.
When to Get There
Sunrise and sunsets are the best time to be at the top of Mt. Emei. April and October are the best months to visit, as there are generally fewer cloudy days. It can snow during the winter.
Top Attractions on Mt. Emei
Those with more time should consider visiting some of the other top attractions on Mt. Emei, including Baoguo Temple (the mountain’s largest temple), Fuhu Temple (noted for its gardens), and Qingqin Pavilion (built on an outcropping in the middle of a stream). Popular mid-mountain attractions include Wannian Temple (the oldest temple on Mt. Emei) and Elephant Pool Temple.
Address: Emeishan, Southwest China 614201, China
From $ 199
Humble Administrator's Garden
Of all the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, the Humble Administrator’s Garden is the largest, most famous, and best preserved. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this uniquely-designed garden takes visitors through scenic pathways, quiet pavilions, ancient bridges, calm ponds, and small, forested areas dating back to the Ming dynasty. The Hall of Drifting Fragrance, a traditional Chinese residence at the garden's center, offers views of vast lawns, flowing water, and crape myrtle trees, while the nearby Small Flying Rainbow Bridge is the only bridge in the garden you can walk across.
A great family activity, you can visit the garden on an easy day trip from Shanghai. Combine your ticket with a visit to the famous Zhouzhuang water village nearby or opt for a private tour of Suzhou's classical gardens to visit Tiger Hill and Master of Nets, as well.
Practical Info
Suzhou is located approximately 62 miles (100 km) west of Shanghai, and the two cities are connected by high-speed train. The garden is open 7:30am to 5:30pm daily from March to November, and 7:30am to 5pm daily mid-November to February. Adult admission is 90 CNY in spring and summer and 70 CNY in winter. Some tours utilize the high-speed train rather than road transport.
Did You Know? The Humble Administrator’s Garden was originally the private garden of a government servant named Wang Xianchen. It was said that Xianchen grew frustrated with his work, and built the garden so that he could lead the simple life of a humble man instead, hence the name of the garden.
Address: 178 Dongbei Street, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily (March–Nov), 7:30am–5pm daily (Nov–Feb)
Admission: Varies by season
From $ 69
Leifeng Pagoda
Leifeng Pagoda is a five-story tower located on Sunset Hill in Hangzhou, providing panoramic views over West Lake. The original pagoda was built in 975AD during the Five Dynasties and Ten States Period on orders of King Qian Chu to celebrate the birth of his son. However, after a tumultuous history, the structure collapsed in 1924. The pagoda was eventually rebuilt and opened to the public in 2002.
The original Leifeng Pagoda was a five-story octagonal structure too. However, unlike the modern version that stands today, it was built almost entirely from brick and wood. The new pagoda is instead made from 1400 tonnes of steel with 200 tonnes of copper parts. At the entrance there are two escalators to carry visitors to the base of the pagoda, and there are a number of viewing platforms to climb up to in order to marvel at the views. The new pagoda also features such modern amenities such as air-conditioning and speakers, although the ruins of the original building, along with a number of historical artifacts, can still be seen at the site.
Practical Info
To reach Leifeng Pagoda, take the tourist bus Y2 and alight at Jingsi Station.
Address: 15 Nanshan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310007, China
Hours: 8am-8pm daily
Admission: CNY40
From $ 54
Lamma Island
With no cars, a small population, old-fashioned buildings, excellent hikes, hidden beaches, and al fresco seafood restaurants, Lamma Island offers welcome respite from Hong Kong’s bustle. The closest and third-largest island of Hong Kong’s outlying islands, Lamma remains largely undeveloped, with a decidedly bohemian vibe, thanks in part to its youthful expat population.
The Basics
When frenetic pace of Hong Kong’s concrete jungle gets to be too much, an escape to Lamma Island might be in order. Many visitors experience the island on a private or group tour, with options that include sea kayaking or a guided hike between the island’s main villages, Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The island makes a great escape from the hectic pace of Hong Kong.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel to enjoy Lamma’s many beaches.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike between Lamma’s villages.
How to Get to Lamma Island
The easiest way to reach Lamma Island independently is to take a ferry ride from the Central Ferry Pier on Hong Kong Island (the same place where you catch the Star Ferry). Boats depart every hour or two, and you can choose between an ordinary ferry (35 minutes) or a faster one (20 minutes).
When to Get There
For the most enjoyable time on the island, plan your visit for a weekday when the sun is shining. On Sundays and holidays, Hong Kong residents head to the island for family outings, so expect the ferry and the hiking trails to be crowded.
Points of Interest on Lamma Island
Lamma’s main town, Yung Shue Wan, is known for its hippie vibe, craft shops, eclectic eateries, and Tin Hau Temple, while much smaller Sok Kwu Wan attracts with its waterfront seafood restaurants. Floating in the harbor is Lamma Fisherfolk’s Village, an outdoor museum highlighting the area’s fishing history and heritage. Beachgoers looking for a quiet stretch of sand should head to Lo So Shing Beach, situated on a small bay. Hung Shing Yeh Beach is popular with families.
Address: Main Street, Yung Shue Wan, Hong Kong, China
Admission: Free
From $ 56
Houhai
Beijing has modernized so rapidly that it’s hard to imagine what it must have been like in decades past. One neighborhood, however, has managed to hold on to its old-style hutong architecture: the Back Lakes (Hou Hai or Houhai). Named after the three Shichahai lakes in the area, the Back Lakes neighborhood is one of the last remaining places in Beijing where you can see traditional courtyard-style houses.
While wandering the hutongs allows visitors to see Beijing as it once was, the streets surrounding the lakes, particularly Hou Hai (the largest of the three) show you a modern, hip and multicultural side of Beijing. The banks are lined with shop, stalls, restaurants, bars and hookah dens catering to tourists, locals and the city’s sizable expatriate population alike, making it a fun and bustling place to browse for souvenirs. The breeze from the lake offers a respite from the heat, and boating activities are also available on the lake itself.
The best way to enjoy the Back Lakes area is to take a pedicab tour of the old hutong neighborhoods in the afternoon. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the lake before settling in to a table at a restaurant or bar balcony for dinner and drinks as you watch the world go by.
While wandering the hutongs allows visitors to see Beijing as it once was, the streets surrounding the lakes, particularly Hou Hai (the largest of the three) show you a modern, hip and multicultural side of Beijing. The banks are lined with shop, stalls, restaurants, bars and hookah dens catering to tourists, locals and the city’s sizable expatriate population alike, making it a fun and bustling place to browse for souvenirs. The breeze from the lake offers a respite from the heat, and boating activities are also available on the lake itself.
The best way to enjoy the Back Lakes area is to take a pedicab tour of the old hutong neighborhoods in the afternoon. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the lake before settling in to a table at a restaurant or bar balcony for dinner and drinks as you watch the world go by.
Practical Info
Houhai is located in the Xicheng District of central Beijing. The nearest subway station is Beihai North on Line 6, and there are a number of bus routes also serving the area.
Address: Houhai, Xicheng, Beijing, China
From $ 14
Imperial Summer Palace of Mountain Resort
The Imperial Summer Palace of Mountain Resort is located just north of the city of Chengde and is China's largest imperial garden. The former summer residence of the Qing dynasty’s emperors and royal members, this vast complex took almost a whole century to complete, with constructed taking place between 1703 and 1792.
The imperial grounds comprise of the emperor's residential buildings, including the reception and entertainment halls, plus the royal gardens, as well a number of striking temples. The various styles of the buildings and landscapes appear to blend in with the surrounding lakes, mountains, and forest, with the complex incorporating classic Chinese architecture, as well as the styles of many other nations, particularly Tibet.
The site covers a sprawling 5.6 square-kilometers and is surrounded by a ten-kilometer wall. The Imperial Summer Palace of Mountain Resort was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
Practical Info
To reach the Imperial Summer Palace of Mountain Resort from Beijing, take the Beijing to Chengde regional bus, which departs from the city center every 10 minutes. Alternatively, take the N211 train to Chengde. From Chengde Railway Station, take a taxi or the number 5 bus to the imperial palace.
Address: Lizheng Men Street, Chengde, Shuangqiao 067000, China
Hours: 8am-5:30pm
Admission: March-November: CNY 120 / December-February: CNY 100
From $ 45
Li River
Along the banks of the Li River as it winds south from Guilin, dramatic karst peaks, dense vegetation, and the winding river itself create magical vistas that loom large in the Chinese imagination, having inspired art and verse for centuries. From Guilin to Yangshuo, there’s never a dull stretch along China’s most beautiful river.
The Basics
For many visitors, a Li River cruise between Yangshuo and Guilin ranks as a highlight of any trip to the area. While it’s possible to transfer between the two towns along the river, it’s also a popular option for a day trip from Guilin; you might combine a Li River cruise with a bamboo raft excursion on the Yulong River and a tour of picturesque Yangshuo, with its old-style houses along West Street. Come nightfall, the Li River serves as a stage for Zhang Yimou’s dreamy Impression Sanjie Liu show in Yangshuo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Li River is a must-see for first-time visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- A typical Li River boat trip lasts four hours, while a full-day tour to Yangshuo from Guilin lasts upwards of eight hours.
How to Get There
While the Li River is much longer than the 52-mile (83-kilometer) length connecting Guilin and Yangshuo, these two towns represent the most popular access points. Cruises depart from Mopanshan Dock in Guilin and Xingping Dock in Yangshuo.
When to Get There
One of the best times to see the Li River is during autumn (September to November), when the weather is cool and dry. Cruises during the summer rainy season might be slightly shorter due to faster flowing water.
Sights Along the Li River
The stretch of river between Guilin and Yangshuo is packed with notable attractions, including several natural landmarks. Rice terraces where water buffalo roam are punctuated by named karst formations like Elephant Trunk Hill, Nine Horses Painted Hill, and Yellow Cloth Shoal. Beneath the karsts lie fascinating cave systems, including Reed Flute Cave and Crown Cave.
Address: China
From $ 42
Huanglong National Park
Brilliant turquoise pools, quiet rivers, cascading waterfalls and mystical yellow rocks are just part of what makes Huanglong National Park, a UNESO World Heritage site, worth a visit.
Travelers love wandering the scenic passes that wind through incredible blue waters and the popular cable car offers impressive views of the landscape down below. Easy walking trails stretch over calcified rock and loop through dense forest, offering an up-close look at this unique
and fragile ecosystem. Visitors warn that while the climb is easy, the air is thinner, so be prepared for a shift in altitude—and perhaps a little light-headedness that follows.
Practical Info
The park is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. It is located 150 kilomteres northwest of Chengdu and 65 kilometers west of Songpan. Travelers agree it’s best to visit this park in the fall when water levels are at their peak and rivers and waterfalls are most impressive.
Address: Huanglong National Park, Sichuan, China
Hours: The park is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Admission: CNY 200 in peak season (April 1 - November 15) CNY 60 in low season (November 16 - March 31)
From $ 475
Lantau Island
The largest of Hong Kong’s outlying islands, Lantau is twice the size of Hong Kong Island, yet it has only a fraction of the population. Where Hong Kong is an urban jungle of sorts, Lantau is a mostly quiet escape famous for its long beaches, traditional fishing villages, Buddhist monuments, outlet shopping, and mountainous interior popular with hikers. The northern tip of the island is home to both Hong Kong International Airport and Hong Kong Disneyland.
The Basics
Whether arriving in Hong Kong by air or spending a day with Mickey Mouse, many travelers find themselves on Lantau Island at some point during their Hong Kong trip. But the rest of the island is worthy of exploration as well, especially for those looking for a break from the urban buzz of central Hong Kong. Ride the Ngong Ping cable car to the Po Lin Monastery with its bronze Big Buddha statue (also called the Tian Tan Buddha), search for dolphins from stilt houses in the Tai O fishing village, hike to the top of Lantau Peak, bask in the sun along Cheung Sha Beach or Pui O Beach, or dine on freshly caught seafood at Discovery Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can choose between adventure and culture tours on Lantau Island.
- Many Lantau tours include round-trip transportation to and from your hotel in Hong Kong.
- The northern part of the island is the busiest; head south to see a more rural Lantau.
- Remember to bring sunscreen and water, as the area can get hot and humid.
- Wear suitable shoes comfortable for walking over uneven ground.
How to Get to Lantau Island
The fastest way to get to Lantau Island from Hong Kong is by taking the MTR to Tung Chung station. The ride takes about 25 minutes and connects with the special rail service shuttling guests to Disneyland. More scenic is the ferry ride departing from Central Hong Kong to either Discovery Bay or Mui Wo.
When to Get There
The weather tends to be cool and dry between October and February, making it a pleasant time to visit. Expect temperatures in the upper 80s with high humidity during the summer months. Budget-minded travelers should plan to visit on a weekday or Saturday, as ferries and buses impose a surcharge on Sundays and public holidays.
Where to Find the Best Views on Lantau Island
Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak gets all the attention for its panoramic views, but Lantau has some gems of its own. For a stellar sunrise view of the island and the South China Sea, give Lantau Peak a try (you can hike to the top or take a cable car ride), or for a romantic spot to bid farewell to the day, climb up to the aptly named Sunset Peak.
Address: China
Admission: Free
From $ 19
Mt Kailash
This towering snow-capped peak of smooth black rock is located in the Himalayan Mountains of western Tibet. Mt Kailash is a sacred destination for multiple religions, including Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon followers. Despite varying beliefs, each sect believes this sky-high peak to be among the holiest sites.
Rising up some 22,000 feet above sea level, the surrounding terrain is beautiful, but unforgiving. Two freshwater lakes, including Lake Manasarowar, the highest body of freshwater in the world, as well as several streams and breathtaking scenery make a voyage to Mt Kailash a truly epic adventure. A 32-mile path winds its way up the moutain and typically calls for three days to complete, but travelers say only foreigners make the trip to the top, since religious pilgrims believe walking around the mountain’s base 108 times will remove all sins.
Since Mt Kailash sees such little foot traffic, amenities are few and far between. Travelers should plan to carry water and supplies and prepare for a harrowing, but memorable, journey. Guides are recommended, and porters can be hired in the nearby city of Darchen.
Practical Info
Travelers and pilgrims typically start their journey to Mt Kailash from the city of Darchen. Yaks and porters can be hired for about Y100 per day, and permits are required.
Address: Tibet, China
From $ 2,150
Mount Everest Base Camp
While climbing Mount Everest is neither financially nor physically possible for many travelers, laying eyes on the world’s tallest peak from Mount Everest Base Camp is. The infamous peak has two base camps, one in Nepal and the other in Tibet, and for many, a visit to China’s easternmost region wouldn’t be complete without an excursion to take in the spectacular view of Everest’s north face.
Everest Base Camp sits nearly 500 miles (800 kilometers) southwest of Lhasa at an elevation of around 17,000 feet. Unlike the base camp on the Nepal side, you can drive directly to the Tibet base camp without any hiking required. While visitors can’t spend the night in the official base camp without a climbing permit, the area offers many “tent hotels” and Tibetan-style guesthouses. The area is also home to the highest post office in the world and the highest monastery in the world, Rongphu Monastery.
Practical Info
Visits to Mount Everest Base Camp in Tibet require travel permits from both Tibetan and Chinese authorities and therefore must be organized through a guided tour.
Address: Tibet, China
From $ 1,063
Leshan Giant Buddha
Standing 233 feet (71 meters) tall, the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds the record as the largest Buddha sculpture in the world. A Buddhist monk—hoping to earn divine protection for the local fishermen—carved the massive statue into a cliff, starting in 713. Ninety years later, the carving was finished.
The Basics
A day tour to the Buddha statue from Chengdu starts with a scenic 2-hour drive, often followed by a guided tour of the statue. The tour also stops at several of the Buddhist temples that surround the statue, including the Grand Buddha Temple located behind the giant Buddha's head and Wuyou Temple, where you'll find some of the best views of the statue.
You can also take a boat ride on the Mingjiang River to see the Buddha from a different perspective. Tours to the statue are frequently combined with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and if you have an extra day in your itinerary, it's possible to combine your visit to the statue with a tour of Mount Emei, one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains and another UNESCO-listed site.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Leshan Giant Buddha is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Day trips to the statue from Chengdu typically last eight to 10 hours, depending on the option chosen.
- Be prepared to climb up and down steps that could be challenging for those with limited mobility.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
Located 85 miles (137 kilometers) south of Chengdu, the Leshan Buddha is best visited on a day trip from the Sichuan capital. To get there independently, take the long-distance bus from Xinnanmen Bus Station in Chengdu to Leshan Xiaoba Station and then take Bus 13 to the site.
When to Get There
Due to Leshan’s rainy climate, it’s best to visit during the spring or fall when temperatures are warm and relatively dry. The area receives about 80 percent of its annual rainfall during the summer.
Notable Details of the Stone Buddha
To help protect the giant Buddha statue from Leshan’s frequent rainfall, its builders constructed a hidden drainage system—a series of gutters and channels that displace rainwater to help protect the integrity of the statue. Among the other interesting features are 1,012 buns of coiled hair embedded into the carved head of the Buddha.
Address: Mt Emei, Shizhong, Southwest China, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Mt Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
Mt Huangshan (Yellow Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1990, has featured in Chinese art and literature since the eighth century. Considered one of China’s most beautiful mountains, this peak rising above a sea of clouds in Anhui Province is famous for its irregular granite formations, gnarled pine trees and perpetual mist.
The mountain’s name, however, is a bit misleading; Huangshan isn’t a single mountain but a series of peaks, many of which reach over 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) in height. Paths winding through the park are well-maintained, and many include handrails and paved walkways. It’s also possible to take a cable car to the top and explore on foot from there. Tourists hoping to catch a sunrise or sunset can stay at one of half a dozen hotels located on the mountain top.
Practical Info
Mt Huangshan is at its most crowded from May to October, particularly during Chinese national holidays.
Address: Huangshan, Anhui Province, China
Admission: Y230 during high season, Y150 during low season
From $ 139
Huangpu River
The Huangpu River, extending over 71 miles (113 kilometers), flows through the middle of Shanghai’s, dividing the city into two parts – Pudong to the east and Puxi to the west. The port where the river empties into the East China Sea has now become the largest port in China and in 2012 became the world’s busiest container port.
Walking along the Huangpu River juxtaposes the colonial buildings of Old Shanghai with the towering, ultramodern skyscrapers that now dominate the skyline. While it’s possible to experience the Huangpu River from the banks with a walk along the Bund, the best way to see both sides is on a river cruise.
Most cruises start from the Bund and go upstream before turning south towards the Yangpu bridge. Boats depart throughout the day, but after the sun sets and the buildings to either side of the river light up, the Shanghai skyline becomes even more impressive than usual.
Walking along the Huangpu River juxtaposes the colonial buildings of Old Shanghai with the towering, ultramodern skyscrapers that now dominate the skyline. While it’s possible to experience the Huangpu River from the banks with a walk along the Bund, the best way to see both sides is on a river cruise.
Most cruises start from the Bund and go upstream before turning south towards the Yangpu bridge. Boats depart throughout the day, but after the sun sets and the buildings to either side of the river light up, the Shanghai skyline becomes even more impressive than usual.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 30
Imperial Garden of the Palace Museum
Situated within Beijing's Forbidden City, the Imperial Garden of the Palace Museum was built in 1417 as the private green space for China's ruling family. The three-acre (12,000-square-meter) space, set at the northernmost point of the complex just beyond the Gate of Terrestrial Tranquility, occupies less than 2% of the total area of the sprawling Forbidden City, yet it's packed with some 20 structures and pavilions, plus multiple ponds.
At the center of the garden sits the 15th-century Hall of Imperial Peace, where prayers of protection over the palace were once offered to Zhenwudadi, the Taoist God of Water. Pavilions in each of the garden’s four corners represent the seasons, while the entire space is dotted with cypress trees and Chinese wisteria—many hundreds of years old. A multi-hued pebble footpath winds through the garden.
The Forbidden City and its imperial garden are must-sees in Beijing. The two are often included on both private and group tours of the city, which allow visitors short on time to experience the Imperial Palace and other Beijing highlights, such as the Summer Palace and Tiananmen Square.
Practical Info
Admission to the Imperial Garden of the Palace Museum is included in the entrance fee to the Forbidden City. The garden is the final area of the complex visitors pass through before reaching the north gate exit.
Did You Know? A pair of 400-year-old pine trees, known as the Consort Pines, appear to embrace in front of the Hall of Imperial Peace and are thought to symbolize harmony between the emperor and empress.
Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Beijing, Northern China 100009, China
Hours: 8:30am–5pm daily
Admission: 40–60 RMB
From $ 41
Lan Kwai Fong
With over 100 bars, restaurants, clubs and retailers, Lan Kwai Fong is considered Hong Kong’s dining and entertainment destination. Its convenient location just around the corner from Central makes the area a mainstay for locals, expats and travelers looking for the perfect nighttime hot spots.
Lan Kwai Fong’s history is varied, as the area has undergone a significant number of changes over the years. It was primarily filled with prostitutes back in the 1880’s and then it became a water catchment area at the turn of the century. Around the same time a flower market opened, giving rise to the name Lan Kwai Fong, meaning “Orchid Square”. Prior to the Second World War, the area saw legitimate businesses open their doors as prostitution was abolished, but it wasn’t until the early 1980s that Lan Kwai Fong became the entertainment district of Hong Kong. Early businesses saw immediate success, paving the way for a booming nighttime entertainment district today. In 1979, the well-known “Disco Disco” was the first to open and then “California” Restaurant followed in 1983, earning Lan Kwai Fong an immediate fan base.
Lan Kwai Fong Street is L-shaped with the two ends joining with D’Aguilar Street and is typically referred to as “LKF” by locals and those in the know. The area continues to grow and now “Greater Lan Kwai Fong” includes D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Wo On Lane, Wing Wah Lane, Wyndham Street, On Hing Terrace, and Wellington Street.
When it comes to dining and partying in LKF, the area has it all. From upscale ethnic cuisine to trendy bars featuring crazy libations, there is literally something for every occasion. It’s the ideal spot for happy hour, a simple glass of wine while people watching, or a late night of dancing and partying. It’s not uncommon to see local celebrities frequenting Lan Kwai Fong, and big holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve see huge parties that spill out into the streets.
Address: Lan Kwai Fong St. and D'Aguilar St., Hong Kong, China
From $ 53
Laoshan Scenic Area
Laoshan Scenic Area, one of China’s first national parks, has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. The hills and slopes surrounding the 3,280-foot (1,000-meter) peak of Mount Lao were once hope to eight temples, nine palaces and six dozen convents.
While many of the park’s architectural treasures have been lost to time, it’s still possible to visit the Taoist Taiqing Palace, the park’s oldest, built in 140 BC. Natural wonders add to the appeal, including the majestic Chaoyin waterfall and numerous striking sea views.
The mineral waters originating within the scenic area are famous throughout China as well; they’re a main ingredient in China’s famous Tsingtao beer.
Practical Info
You can see most of the important sites within the park on a day trip from Qingdao, but try to avoid visiting during a Chinese national holiday.
Address: Qingdao, Shandong, China
Hours: April 1-Oct 31: 7am-6:30pm
Admission: 90 Yuan
From $ 95
Mt Tai (Tai Shan)
Mount Tai (or Tai Shan) is a majestic mountain located in Shandong Province. It spans two cities – Tai’an and Jinan – and is the principal mountain among the five most significant in China. In 1987, Mount Tai was listed as a Cultural and Natural World Heritage Site and later in 2006, a World Geopark.
Mount Tai has been climbed by the emperors of China’s dynasties for ceremonious events and in particular to signify they were the sole ruler of the country at the time. These days it’s the most climbed mountain in China because of its history, majesty, and the spectacular views it presents.
There are a number of ways to climb Mount Tai but the most popular – and the one favoured by the ancient emperors – is via the Red Gate/Imperial route, which involves ascending more than 6,000 steps.
Practical Info
While you can climb Mount Tai at any time of the day (or night!) there’s a cable car from the halfway point, which can be accessed by a taxi or bus, and the first car starts just after sunrise and stops just before sunset.
Address: Tai’an, Shandong, China, China
From $ 396