Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 241-260 of 356 listings.
Sanya Bay
On the southern coast of Hainan Island just south of Sanya sits Sanya Bay, one of three major beaches on the island. The most convenient beach to the city, coconut palm-lined Sanya Bay also enjoys superb views across the water to Western, Eastern and Phoenix Islands, and since it’s not as heavily commercialized as Yalong and Haitang Bays, it’s often a much quieter option for enjoying a day of sun, sea and sand.
A paved road, known as the Coconut Dream Corridor, runs alongside the 14 miles (20 kilometers) beach — a popular place for a sunset stroll. Calm waters make the bay safe for swimming as well.
Practical Info
If you’re in the market for budget-friendly restaurants and accommodations on the island, Sanya Bay is a great option.
Address: Sanya Bay, Sanya 572000, China
From $ 154
Wulingyuan
The UNESCO-listed Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area encompasses more than 100 square miles (260 square kilometers) of Central China’s Hunan Province. The vast protected area is most famous for its 3,000 narrow sandstone pillars, some poking more than 650 feet (200 meters) into the sky.
While the stone forest is impressive enough as is, it also hides serene streams, natural pools and waterfalls, natural bridges and 40-odd karst caves. The park is also home to impressive biodiversity, including over 3000 species of plants.
Wulingyaun is divided into four national parks: Suoxi Valley Nature Reserve, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, Yangjiajie Scenic area and, most famously, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Hiking is popular throughout, and with so much area, there are plenty of trains to occupy avid hikers for days or even weeks.
Practical Info
The entrance ticket is good for all four national parks for a period of four days. It includes rides on the internal bus system, but cable cars, elevators and tourist trains will cost extra.
Address: Zhangjiajie, Southern China, China
Admission: 248 Yuan
From $ 165
Wenshu Temple
Located in northern Chengdu, Wenshu Temple is often regarded as the best-preserved Buddhist temple in the city. Originally known as Xinxiang Temple, the Buddhist center was later renamed after a 17th-century monk who famously inhabited the monastery. The temple features an 11-story iron pagoda—the largest of its kind in China.
The Basics
Though nestled amid a fast-paced street in the Sichuan capital, the grounds of the Wenshu Monastery offer visitors well-manicured gardens and intricate statues and carvings at every turn. Sip a cup of tea from the temple teahouse and vegetarian restaurant while listening to folk music, or visit the numerous cultural relics housed within the monastery grounds, including a broken skull fragment from the monk scholar Xuan Zhang and a jade Buddha from Myanmar (formerly Burma) brought to China in 1922.
Only a few sightseeing tours include the temple, but it’s possible to see it as part of a customized private tour of Chengdu, along with any other attractions you may be interested in.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wenshu Temple is a must-see for those with an interest in Buddhism or travelers looking for an escape from the crowds.
- Entrance to the temple is free.
- The Wenshu complex is an active temple, so please be respectful of the devotees there to worship.
How to Get There
To get to the temple, arrive with a tour group or r take Metro Line 1 or Bus 16, 52, or 55 to Wenshuyuan Station.
When to Get There
While typically buzzing with devotees, Wenshu Temple isn’t as frequently visited by tourists as other Chengdu attractions, so there isn’t really a bad time to visit. If possible, opt for a cool spring or fall afternoon when the weather permits sitting outside with a cup of tea.
The Story of Cidu
According to local lore, a Zen Buddhist monk named Cidu came to the temple during the Qing Dynasty and lived in a hut between a pair of trees for several years. When he died and his body was being cremated, an image of Wenshu, a Bodhisattva, appeared in the flames. This led to the belief that Cidu had been a reincarnation of Wenshu; hence, the new temple name.
Address: Chengdu, China
From $ 15
The Legend of Kung Fu Show
The Legend of Kung Fu Show, which premiered at Beijing’s Red Theatre in 2004, tells the story of a young monk who dreams of one day becoming a kung fu master. The best kung fu practitioners from all across China tell the story through Chinese martial arts, traditional and modern dance, and Chinese acrobatics.
The Basics
Two performances are staged daily, and while the 80-minute production contains no dialogue, a screen above the stage tells the story with English subtitles to help foreign visitors follow along. The show is popular with both international and domestic tourists and is often included in package tours that also feature a Peking duck dinner or an afternoon visit to Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market) or the Temple of Heaven.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chinese kung fu and acrobatic show is a must for performing-arts enthusiasts.
- Most Legend of Kung Fu Show tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Beijing.
- Book your Legend of Kung Fu Show tickets ahead of time, as they often sell out.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach the Red Theatre is by taking subway Line 5 to Tiantandongmen Station, situated near the east entrance to the Temple of Heaven. Taxis can sometimes be difficult to find near the theater.
When to Get There
There are two shows nightly at Beijing’s Red Theatre. Be sure to arrive a few minutes early to find your seat.
Legend of Kung Fu Show Performers
This popular kung fu show is a hit largely due to the skill of the performers. China’s leading performing arts production company scouts for the best martial artists and dancers from around the country. The average age of the performers is only 17—a testament to their incredible talent.
Address: 44 Xingfu Street, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Day show: 5:15pm, Evening show 7:30pm.
Admission: Prices vary by seat
From $ 27
Wong Tai Sin Temple
When in the midst of the modernity and commercialism of Hong Kong, it’s easy to forget all about the rich cultural and religious heritage of the city. Wong Tai Sin Temple, a Taoist temple commemorating the fourth-century monk by the same name, exemplifies traditional Chinese architecture and is a great place to experience Hong Kong’s more traditional side.
Devotees of Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian faiths come here to pray for good fortune, as the temple makes all wishes come true according to local folklore. On busier days, you’ll see dozens of fortune tellers setting up shop to offer their services to visiting worshippers. The structures of the temple follow the principles of feng shui, with buildings to represent each of the five elements.
A visit to the Wong Tai Sin Temple will give you a good idea of what a living, functioning Chinese temple looks like, and the landscaped gardens in the rear of the complex make for a tranquil escape from the otherwise very busy Kowloon.
Devotees of Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian faiths come here to pray for good fortune, as the temple makes all wishes come true according to local folklore. On busier days, you’ll see dozens of fortune tellers setting up shop to offer their services to visiting worshippers. The structures of the temple follow the principles of feng shui, with buildings to represent each of the five elements.
A visit to the Wong Tai Sin Temple will give you a good idea of what a living, functioning Chinese temple looks like, and the landscaped gardens in the rear of the complex make for a tranquil escape from the otherwise very busy Kowloon.
Address: Wong Tai Sin Rd, Hong Kong, China
From $ 65
World Financial Center Building
Nicknamed the “Bottle Opener” due to its distinctive shape, the World Financial Center is the second tallest building in Shanghai, reaching a dizzying 1,614 feet (492 meters). Its three observatories—in particular, the glass-bottomed observatory on the 100th floor—are the main draw of the building, located in the Lujiazui area of Pudong. There’s also a hotel and a mall.
The Basics
The three observatories in the World Financial Center are on floors 94, 97, and 100. The 97th floor has an observation bridge, while the 100th floor features three transparent glass walkways and panoramic windows for 360-degree views of Shanghai. Find a mall with dining options on the lower levels and a Park Hyatt Hotel on floors 79 to 93.
Purchase admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line, or combine a visit to the World Financial Center with a tour. Tours with views of the building include a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai and Huangpu River dinner cruises. Many half-day, full-day, and evening sightseeing tour include a visit to one of its observation decks with other top Shanghai attractions. Or visit on a private customizable tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The different observatories require separate tickets; a ticket can be purchased to access all three observatories.
- Enjoy free WiFi in the public areas of the building.
- The building is accessible to wheelchair users.
- High-speed elevators take only one minute to reach the 94th floor.
How to Get There
The World Financial Center is located on Century Avenue, in Pudong. By metro, take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station. You can also take bus 1, 81, 82, 86, 96, 119, 483, 792, 818, or 985 to Lujiazui Station. It’s also possible to take a ferry from the Bund across the river, and walk a few minutes to the World Financial Center.
When to Get There
Visit the World Financial Center’s observation decks, open daily from 8am to 11pm, on a clear day for the best views. Or, arrive just before sunset and stay for the nighttime views, when buildings on both sides of the Huangpu River light up.
Tallest Buildings in Shanghai
The World Financial Center is located close to the other three tallest buildings in Shanghai, all of which also offer observatories. The tallest building is the Shanghai Tower. The other two are the Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Jinmao Tower.
Address: 100 Century Avenue, Pudong, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Window of the World
Window of the World is a theme park located in the city of Shenzhen featuring around 130 replicas of the most famous landmarks on the planet, allowing visitors to travel around the world in just one day.
The park is made up of eight main sections: Square of the World, International Street, Asia Region, Europe Region, Africa Region, Americas Region, Oceania Region, and Garden of World Sculptures. In Asia, explore the Mahamuni Pagoda of Mandalay and Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, before moving on to India’s iconic Taj Mahal and the famous Mount Fuji of Japan.
The Eiffel Tower, Ancient Athens, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Tower of London are among the European landmarks on show. Visitors can even take a gondola along the canals of Venice and marvel at a replica of Switzerland’s mighty Matterhorn mountain. Elsewhere, the Pyramids and the Sphinx lay in wait, and after traveling through traditional African hamlets, guests might just find themselves outside Australia’s Sydney Opera House.
America is covered from the east to the west coast, from Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon, to the Statue of Liberty and towering skyscrapers of Manhattan. The ‘Flying Over America’ attraction is a 3D cinema where thrillseekers will enjoy hanging in the air while images of America play out on the big screen, giving the impression of flying over the continent. There’s also an indoor ski world, train ride, log flume, bobsled ride, archery, and a roller coaster within the park.
Practical Info
Window of the World has a station located directly in front of the park, with Line 1 and Line 2 of the Shenzhen Metro stopping there.
Address: 9037 Shennan Road, Shenzhen 518053, China
Hours: 9am-10pm
Admission: Adult: CNY 180; Junior (Under 1.5 meters): CNY 90; Child (Under 1.2 meters): Free
From $ 103
World Expo Museum
In 2010, the eyes of the world turned to Shanghai as it hosted the Shanghai Expo 2010, a World’s Fair held on the banks of the Huangpu River. The record-breaking event saw 192 countries participate and more than 73 million visitors pass through the gates. The China Pavilion, nicknamed the Oriental Crown, was the largest national pavilion to show at the Shanghai Expo and cost an estimated $220 million to build.
Most of the Expo pavilions were dismantled after the event concluding, but the China Pavilion was converted into a permanent history museum. The structure, painted in seven different subtle shades of Chinese red symbolizing Chinese culture and good fortune, has already become a Shanghai landmark. While the building itself is impressive, the collection of Chinese art within is worth a visit on its own.
Most of the Expo pavilions were dismantled after the event concluding, but the China Pavilion was converted into a permanent history museum. The structure, painted in seven different subtle shades of Chinese red symbolizing Chinese culture and good fortune, has already become a Shanghai landmark. While the building itself is impressive, the collection of Chinese art within is worth a visit on its own.
Address: No. 818 Mengzi Road, Shanghai, China
From $ 142
The House of Dancing Water
Just as visitors to Las Vegas pay big money to watch “The Blue Man Group” or “Cirque du Soleil,” so too do visitors to Macau cram themselves into the City of Dreams casino for an evening showing of the “The House of Dancing Water.” Unabashedly referring to itself as one of the greatest shows on Earth, after producers and investors poured over $250 million into the creation of the show the end result is a performance which obliterates any live performance or sensory experience you’ve ever experienced. Handcrafted and created by Franco Dragone, a veteran Las Vegas show maker during the 1990s, the House of Dancing Water has sculpted a storyline and series of effects specifically designed to be infectious and engaging for mainland Chinese visitors and foreign guests alike.
While the holograms, special effects and state of the art sound and lighting are empowering components to the show, one of the most striking inclusions is the integration of a 3.7 million gallon swimming pool into the overall stage. The equivalent of five Olympic swimming pools, the aquatic element of the show is fused with aerial stunts, acrobatics and classic elements of theater which sculpt a love story ranking as arguably the best overall show in Macau. Despite the high price of admission and the fact that it’s performed inside of a casino, the House of Dancing Water is nevertheless a family-friendly event where kids and adults alike are entranced by the shimmering lights and the jaw-dropping stunts which literally take place by the minute.
While the holograms, special effects and state of the art sound and lighting are empowering components to the show, one of the most striking inclusions is the integration of a 3.7 million gallon swimming pool into the overall stage. The equivalent of five Olympic swimming pools, the aquatic element of the show is fused with aerial stunts, acrobatics and classic elements of theater which sculpt a love story ranking as arguably the best overall show in Macau. Despite the high price of admission and the fact that it’s performed inside of a casino, the House of Dancing Water is nevertheless a family-friendly event where kids and adults alike are entranced by the shimmering lights and the jaw-dropping stunts which literally take place by the minute.
Address: City of Dreams Macau, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 79
West Lake (Xi Hu)
West Lake (Xi Hu) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top attraction in the heart of old Hangzhou. With mountains on three sides and plenty of charming gardens, bridges, pagodas, temples, and islands, it’s easy to see why this scenic man-made lake has inspired so many poets and painters through the ages.
The Basics
The 2.5-square-mile (6.5-square-kilometer) West Lake is filled with sights to see, including the Ten Scenes of West Lake, a series of vistas around the water. First compiled during the Southern Song Dynasty, the Ten Scenes gained popularity under Emperor Kangxi during the Qing Dynasty, and include Viewing Fish at Flower Harbour and Moon Reflected on Three Ponds.
To see much of the lake in a short amount of time, rent bicycles, catch an electric cart, or take a leisurely boat cruise around the water. Allot several hours and consider combining a visit to West Lake with a tour of nearby attractions, such as Lingyin Temple and Qinghefang Ancient Street. Full-day tours, including day tours from Shanghai to West Lake, typically also include a visit to a nearby tea plantation. Choose a multi-day tour to gain in-depth insight into Hangzhou and its surrounding areas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- West Lake is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
- Wear comfortable shoes, if you plan on walking, especially across long causeways like the Su Causeway, which is 1.7 miles (2.8 kilometers) long.
- West Lake is free to visit, but some of its attractions, including Leifeng Pagoda, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and the Tomb of General Yue Fei, require an admission fee.
How to Get There
West Lake is in the historic center of Hangzhou, about 19 miles (30 kilometers) from the airport. Visitors from Hangzhou can easily reach it using various transportation. Travelers by train from other cities should get off at Hangzhou Train Station, the closest station to West Lake. From Shanghai, you can take a bullet train and drive a car. Or, book a tour with round-trip transport.
When to Get There
West Lake is a popular destination year-round. Spring is one of the busiest times to visit, when bountiful peach and plum blossoms are in full bloom, while summer visitors often come for the lotus flowers. Fall weather is pleasant, with less rain than usual, and winter is cold and wet with fewer visitors. The rainy season runs from April to September.
Where to Find the Most Photogenic Spots on West Lake
The best panoramic views of West Lake can be found at the Chenghuang Pavilion, the top of Leifeng Pagoda, and Baoshi Mountain. For sunset views, head to Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, Yanggong Causeway, or Xiaoyinzhou Island.
Address: China
From $ 37
Temple Street Night Market (Men's St.)
This market in Kowloon’s Jordan district is best known for selling men’s clothing and accessories. The market starts at 2pm and really gets going around dusk, when the street is closed to vehicles and shoppers swarm into the street. The activity continues well into the evening.
More than a hundred stalls hung with colorful lights make up the main section of the market, offering jeans, shirts, pants, shoes, phones and watches. There are also some secondhand goods and antiques to be found. Like other street markets in Hong Kong, you’ll get better prices by bargaining.
The Temple Street market is particularly well known for its snacks and stand-up eateries, representing Hong Kong’s unique food culture. You’ll also find quite a few clinics near the market using traditional Chinese medicine for treating illnesses.
More than a hundred stalls hung with colorful lights make up the main section of the market, offering jeans, shirts, pants, shoes, phones and watches. There are also some secondhand goods and antiques to be found. Like other street markets in Hong Kong, you’ll get better prices by bargaining.
The Temple Street market is particularly well known for its snacks and stand-up eateries, representing Hong Kong’s unique food culture. You’ll also find quite a few clinics near the market using traditional Chinese medicine for treating illnesses.
Address: China
Hours: Opens at 2pm, but is at its best from 6-10pm
From $ 46
Wuzhen Water Town
A crisscrossing waterway, which is part of the Beijing-Hangzhou Canal, the longest canal in the world, divides Wuzhen, one of the six famous ancient water towns south of the Yangtze River. For centuries, houses, shops, and markets have been built along the river’s edge, with stone railings, picturesque courtyards, and ancient bridges connecting traditional wood and stone structures. The town’s architecture, infrastructure, and way of life hasn’t changed much over the centuries, making the whole of Wuzhen something of a living, breathing museum, with some areas more aimed at tourists than others.
There’s plenty to see and do on a visit to Wuzhen Water Town, and it’s best enjoyed as a full day tour. A trip will include a ride on a traditional wooden boat, plus a visit to East Street, where many of the town’s attractions are based, such as the Hundred Bed Museum, the Sanbai Wine Workshop, and the Hongyuan Thai dye house. Taking in the traditional artform of shadow puppetry is also a must on a trip to Wuzhen Water Town, and the Huagu Opera, a local drama depicting rural life through lively music and traditional costume, is not to be missed either.
Insider’s Tip
Although Wuzhen Water Town can be enjoyed at any time of the year, spring is a particularly good time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and the spring scenery making it all the more pleasant.
Practical Info
Wuzhen lies conveniently within the triangle formed by Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Shanghai. If not traveling as part of a day tour, take the bullet train to Tongxiang from either of these cities and then take a taxi to Wuzhen.
Address: Wuzhen Town, Tongxiang, Eastern China 314500, China
From $ 13
Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (Liurong Temple)
One of the oldest and most famous historic sites in Guangzhou, the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (Liurong Temple) was originally built in 537 AD to serve as a shrine for Buddhist relics from India. The temple grounds suffered from a series of fires during its first few hundred years, but most of the structures standing today date back to the eleventh century.
The temple got its current name when, in 1099, poet Su Dongpo commented on the temple’s courtyard banyan trees in a poem. While the actual banyan trees are long gone, the characters from Su Dongpo’s poem remain above the gateway to the temple.
The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees remains an active Zen Buddhist place of worship with some of the biggest and oldest Buddha statues in the province housed within the main temple hall. The temple’s 17-level flowering pagoda, where the Buddhist relics are stored, is one of the city’s most prominent and recognizable landmarks, and a visit to the top of the pagoda offers pleasant views of the surrounding temple grounds.
The temple got its current name when, in 1099, poet Su Dongpo commented on the temple’s courtyard banyan trees in a poem. While the actual banyan trees are long gone, the characters from Su Dongpo’s poem remain above the gateway to the temple.
The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees remains an active Zen Buddhist place of worship with some of the biggest and oldest Buddha statues in the province housed within the main temple hall. The temple’s 17-level flowering pagoda, where the Buddhist relics are stored, is one of the city’s most prominent and recognizable landmarks, and a visit to the top of the pagoda offers pleasant views of the surrounding temple grounds.
Address: Guangzhou, China
Hours: Open daily 8:30am - 5pm
Admission: CNY 5
From $ 57
Temple of Heaven (Tian tan)
Built by the Yongle Emperor, the Ming Dynasty builder of the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven (Tian tan) was a stage for important rituals performed by the emperor, or Son of Heaven. Chief among these were supplication to the heavens for a good harvest and the winter solstice ceremony, meant to ensure a favorable new year.
The Basics
The temple buildings are rich in symbolic detail, including variations on the number nine, which represents the emperor; colored glazes that signify heaven and earth; and pillars that represent the months of the year, seasons, and time. There are also echo stones where you can stand to hear your voice reverberate and a circular echo wall that carries your whisper to the far side of the circle.
The UNESCO-listed Temple of Heaven ranks among Beijing’s most famous attractions and features on many city tours, along with the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Tiananmen Square; some tours include the Great Wall of China. Those with a particular interest in the temple’s history can opt for a private tour to hear more about its rich spiritual symbolism. It’s also possible to combine a temple visit with a tai chi class in the surrounding park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Temple of Heaven is a must-see for first-time visitors to Beijing.
- Many of the outdoor areas surrounding the temple are wheelchair accessible, but the only building accessible to wheelchairs is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.
- Give yourself at least 90 minutes to tour the temple grounds.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
The Temple of Heaven is located in the southern part of central Beijing. You can reach the temple on one of several public buses, or take subway Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen.
When to Get There
The Temple of Heaven is open daily, but one of the best times to visit is early in the morning when locals show up to practice tai chi, sword fighting, or traditional Chinese dance. Later in the day, you’ll see groups of elderly Beijingers playing chess or cards in the shade of the park’s long corridor.
What’s Nearby
The area near Temple of Heaven park is packed with other worthwhile attractions. The Beijing Museum of Natural History is situated near the temple’s west gate, while the Hongqiao Pearl Market is just across the road from Tiantan Dongmen subway station. Taoranting Park, the Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum, and the Ming Dynasty City Wall Relics Park are also within easy walking distance.
Address: Tiantan Road, Beijing, China
From $ 6
The Bund (Waitan)
The Bund (Waitan) refers to Shanghai’s iconic waterfront strip, which runs for 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) along the west shore of the Huangpu River. Renowned for its extensive collection of colonial-era buildings, there’s also pedestrian-friendly promenade perfect for strolling, which offers stunning views of both the Bund and Pudong.
The Basics
No visit to Shanghai would be complete without a visit to the Bund. Admire the architecture of the Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco buildings, many of which have been restored to their former glory and are now home to trendy hotels, galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and clubs. Just about every tour will feature a stop here. Take a guided walking or bike tour, many of which combine it with nearby attractions like Yuyuan Garden and Nanjing Road. Cruise-ship passengers and those on a layover may want to consider a customized private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there will be plenty to photograph along the Bund and across the Huangpu River.
- There are 2,000 benches and plenty of vending machines along the Bund’s promenade, but not much shade; bring a hat or umbrella to protect against the sun.
- The Bund is free to visit, but there is a fee to take the train through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel.
- To learn more about the history of the Bund, stop by the Bund Historical Museum, located within Huangpu Park, at the north end of the area.
How to Get There
The Bund is located on the west shore of the Huangpu River. To get there by metro, take line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, then walk toward the Huangpu River. Or take the City Sightseeing Bus, lines 1, 3, or 5, to Waitan Haiguan Dalou. There are also ferries running between the Dongchang Road Ferry Dock in Pudong and the Bund.
When to Get There
The Bund is pleasant to visit at any time. Visit early in the morning to see locals practicing tai chi or ballroom dancing. It’s also the best time to visit to avoid crowds. At night, enjoy views of the colorfully illuminated buildings along the Bund and Pudong.
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel runs for 2,122 feet (647 meters) from the Bund to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower in Pudong. There’s a special train that travels the tunnel, complete with a light and sound show, which takes just a few minutes. Contrary to the name, you won’t actually see any of the sights the Bund is famous for on the ride.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 30
Temple of Earth (Ditan Park)
Of Beijing’s royal altars left over from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, this is the last remaining temple dedicated to the God of Earth. (The Temple of Heaven is a popular stop on many day tours of Beijing.) The altar is based in Ditan Park, which these days is a public space that’s open all year round with a small entrance fee.
Autumn’s changing colors, when the park’s many ginkgo trees turn golden, makes this a popular time of year to visit Ditan Park, although the open spaces and tree-lined pathways make for a pleasant visit at any time of the year. Traditional Chinese pagodas and archways are also dotted throughout the park.
The annual Chinese Spring Festival held at Ditan Park is incredibly popular, attracting huge crowds to its large temple fair, with traditional performances and plenty of vendors providing food and entertainment.
Insider’s Tip: The best time to visit Ditan Park is in the early morning, when you’ll be greeted by locals dancing or practicing tai chi. Take a stroll using the circular path around the park’s four main gates so that you can explore the entire area.
Practical Info
Ditan Park has four entrances at its north, east, south, and west corners. The south gate is easily reached by taking Line 2 on the subway to the Yonghegong Lama Temple stop and using Exit A.
Address: Andingmenwai Street, Beijing 100011, China
Hours: 6am-9pm
Admission: Park: CNY2 / Temple of Earth: CNY5
From $ 46
Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum
The 1974 discovery of thousands of life-sized Terracotta Warriors near Xian was one of the archeological sensations of the 20th century. The figures date from 210 BC and were meant to guard the first emperor of China in the afterlife. Today the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor ranks among China’s top attractions.
The Basics
A huge statue of the emperor now guards the entrance to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, where three enormous pits are filled with row upon row of these remarkable effigies—the first pit alone holds some 6,000 examples in excellent condition.
The museum and excavation site is by far the most popular day trip from Xian, and options are plentiful. Choose between a full or half-day tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site with a small group or your own private English-speaking tour guide. Some day tours also include visits to the Hanyang Mausoleum, Muslim Quarter, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, City Wall, or a Tang Dynasty show and dumpling banquet. If you’re on a tight schedule in China, you can even see the terracotta army on a day trip by air from Shanghai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum is a must-see for history lovers and first-time visitors.
- Allow two to three hours to visit the site fully.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs.
- Photography is allowed in the museum, but flashes and tripods are prohibited.
- Many Xian tours to the museum include hotel pickup and drop-off.
How to Get There
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum is northwest of Xian, near the community of Lintong. The No. 5 tourist bus takes you there from the Xian train station, or you can catch public bus No. 306 from East Square.
When to Get There
The Terracotta Warriors are one of China’s most-visited attractions; to avoid the worst crowds, plan to visit on a weekday first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon, after the bus tour groups have left. Since the excavation pits are indoors, weather isn’t a factor—but the pits can be freezing cold in winter.
Xian Terracotta Warriors by the Numbers
Since their discovery in 1974, more than 8,000 soldiers, 670 horses, and 130 chariots have been unearthed. Each warrior is unique, with distinct facial features and heights, though the average height is 6 feet (1.85 meters). It took an estimated 40 years for some 700,000 laborers to complete the army.
Address: China
Hours: Daily 8:30am - 5pm
Admission: CNY110
From $ 9
Temple of the Five Immortals (Wuxian Guan)
According to legend, Guangzhou was founded when five immortal beings, three men and two women, descended upon the city during the reign of King Yi in the Zhou Dynasty. The five celestial beings rode on top of rams and brought with them rice and the valuable knowledge of cultivation to help the people of the area avoid famine. The immortals then ascended back into the heavens, leaving behind the five celestial rams to protect the city.
In honor of the five immortals, the people of Guangzhou built the Temple of the Five Immortals (Wuxian Guan) in 1377 at the location of a footprint left behind by one of the beings. The Ming-style Taoist temple features a main hall just west of small pond in the shape of a foot.
Within the temple sits a large stone sculpture of the five immortals on their celestial rams (Five-Ram sculpture) and it is home to a huge bell tower dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The massive bronze bell can be heard through much of the city each time it rings.
In honor of the five immortals, the people of Guangzhou built the Temple of the Five Immortals (Wuxian Guan) in 1377 at the location of a footprint left behind by one of the beings. The Ming-style Taoist temple features a main hall just west of small pond in the shape of a foot.
Within the temple sits a large stone sculpture of the five immortals on their celestial rams (Five-Ram sculpture) and it is home to a huge bell tower dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The massive bronze bell can be heard through much of the city each time it rings.
Address: Guangzhou, China
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm
Admission: CNY 10
From $ 47
Wuyou Temple
After visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha, make your way to Wuyou Temple on Wuyou Mountain. Traverse the picturesque Haoshang Bridge, a shortcut to the temple over the river, and make the climb up the steps to the Wuyou Temple.
Built in the Tang Dynasty, the site consists of seven Buddhist palaces, all surrounded by lush trees. Featuring an ancient courtyard on the outside with various statues of the Buddhist pantheon inside, this well-preserved temple is a gem. Be sure to make note of the 500 Arhats Hall with its beautifully painted life-sized clay figures of 500 of the Buddha's disciples. Though the stairs up might seem like a workout (it takes about 30 minutes to reach the temple), the views afforded at this height are worth the walk.
Practical Info
This temple is rarely crowded, as many visitors simply go to see the Giant Buddha and then leave. There is a bit of a climb up the hill, but the temple at the top is serene and peaceful. Entry into Wuyou Temple is included in the price for visiting the Grand Buddha and is open from 7:30am to 4:30pm.
Address: Chengdu, China
Hours: Daily 7:30am–4:30pm
Admission: 90 RMB
From $ 84
Wuhou Memorial Temple
Dating back nearly 2,000 years, Wuhou Memorial Temple in a southern suburb of Chengdu is steeped in history and lore. The site is meant to honor Liu Bei, emperor of the Shu Kingdom, as well as his much revered military strategist Zhuge Liang—two immensely popular figures in Chinese history.
The Basics
Rebuilt in 1672, Wuhou Memorial Temple evokes a sense of nostalgia, with its old cypress trees and classic Chinese architecture. The grounds are divided into five sections, including two gates, a corridor, and a pair of halls—the Hall of Liu Bei and the Hall of Zhuge Liang—honoring the two historical figures. The temple often features in Chengdu city sightseeing tours, along with other Chengdu attractions, such as the Chengdu giant panda research base, Jinli Street, and Qingyang Palace. Opt for a private tour to combine the temple with other attractions on your must-see list.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Wuhou Temple is a must-visit for history buffs and spiritual travelers.
- Give yourself about an hour to tour the temple grounds.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Much of the temple complex is wheelchair accessible.
- Luggage lockers are available near the main entrance to the temple.
How to Get There
The best way to get to the temple using public transportation is to take the Chengdu Metro (Line 3) to Gaoshengqiao Station. From there, walk eastward on Wuhouci Avenue to the temple entrance. Half a dozen public buses also stop at nearby Wuhouci Station.
When to Get There
Since many of the temple’s attractions are outdoors, it’s a good idea to visit during the spring (March to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather in Sichuan province is mild. Expect big crowds on Chinese national holidays.
The Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Bei and Liang lived during the “Three Kingdoms Period” (AD 169–280)—an era that has attained a somewhat cultlike following among literary buffs and fans of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, a 14th-century epic novel. While Three Kingdoms fans will consider this to be somewhat of a pilgrimage, those not familiar with the novel will still enjoy ambling among the cypress- and bamboo-covered pathways of the temple complex.
Address: China
From $ 15