Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 281-300 of 356 listings.
Tianya Haijiao
‘Tianya Haijiao’ translates to ‘edges of the heaven, corners of the sea,’ and when you’re sitting on the sun-warmed sand of this vast beach fronting the South China Sea, the name makes sense.
According to local legend, a young couple from two rival clans ran away and ended up at the beach. Believing it was the end of the earth, they swore their love for each other, jumped into the sea, and were transformed into two stones. Two large boulders poking out from the sand represent the star-crossed lovers’ eternal love, and newlyweds often come here during their honeymoons.
While Tianya Haijiao isn’t really the end of the earth, it is considered the southernmost point of China. On clear days, the sea seems to stretch on forever, with small islets visible in the distance.
Practical Info
To get to Tianya Haijiao, catch a bus from Sanya’s West Station to either Nanshan or Tianya.
Address: Tianya Town, Southern China, China
Hours: 8am-6pm
Admission: 95 RMB
From $ 38
Tianzifang
Tianzifang, in the French Concession, is a hip, artsy area of Shanghai full of art galleries, design studios, stylish boutiques, and unique shops. Many bars, cafés, and restaurants here are housed in traditional Shikumen buildings or converted factory spaces. A place for meandering, it’s popular with expats, tourists, and local youth.
The Basics
Tianzifang is comprised of three main lanes (210, 248, and 274), intersected by numerous small alleyways. It can be easy to get lost here, but for some visitors, that’s part of the fun. You can also get a map at the tourism center at the entrance and plot out your visit in advance. Plenty of cafés and restaurants are around to offer a break and sustenance.
Tianzifang is a popular destination, and a number of sightseeing tours feature a stop here. Tours can be tailored for different interests: art lovers can also stop at M50 and the Propaganda Poster Art Center; shoppers can also stop at Nanjing Road and Old Town Market; and those who want to see Shanghai’s highlights can also stop at the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and Jade Buddha Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tianzifang is a must-visit for foodies, shoppers, and art lovers.
- It’s possible to find restaurants offering many different types of cuisine in the area.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera, but be aware that certain shops forbid photos, even of their exterior.
- Many residents still live here, often above the stores; please be respectful of their privacy.
- Tianzifang is not wheelchair friendly, as some of the alleyways are very narrow and the ground can be uneven.
How to Get There
Tianzifang is located in the French Concession. By metro, take line 9 to Dapuqiao Station (exit 1). A number of buses also stop nearby, including buses 17, 24, 41, 96, 146, and 786.
When to Get There
Tianzifang is a popular destination and often crowded. Visit earlier in the day, during the week, for smaller crowds. Most stores and restaurants are open until 9pm or 10pm, and some bars stay open even later.
The Origin of Tianzifang
Huang Yongyu, a famous artist, coined the term Tianzifang. It stems from the name of one of China’s earliest artists, but with the last character changed to mean “lane” or “workshop” and thus, a gathering place for art. A stele with “Tianzifang” hangs over the entrance of Lane 210, and a statue of the ancient artist can be found within.
Address: Tianzifang, Shanghai, China
From $ 36
Yandaixie Street
Located in the Xicheng District not far from Shichahai, Yandaixie Street is one of the oldest streets in Beijing. It’s a street of contrasts, blending the ancient Beijing with the modern city it has become today. Various shops and cafes cater to locals and visitors from far and wide, who explore the street on foot or by rickshaw.
Yandaixie Street got its nickname, Tobacco Pouch Street, due to the huge popularity of tobacco and subsequent tobacco shops during the Qing Dynasty. Most of the shops in Yandaixie Street are situated on sidesteps and have large wooden tobacco pipe symbols at their entrances. Some even say that the shape of the street itself resembles a tobacco pouch.
The original ancient architectural styles found on Yandaixie Street, along with its historical and cultural significance, saw the street named one of China's Historical and Cultural Streets by the Ministry of Culture in 2010.
Practical Info
To reach Yandaixie Street, take one of the many buses bound for the Drum Tower and then walk south down Di'an Men Wai Street. Yandaixie is the first street on the right.
Address: Yandai Byway, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 25
Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park
Covered by lush tropical evergreen rainforest, Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park protects a huge swath of coastal land, home to more than 130 plant and 190 animal species. A popular place to commune with Mother Nature for the day, the park is also home to one of the biggest trail networks in Hainan Province. A small pagoda at the top of the highest peak affords superb views of Hainan Island.
While hiking is a popular option, it’s not the only way to navigate the park. A tourist bus shuttles visitors between scenic spots (included in the entrance fee), and there’s also a rope bridge and a zip line where visitors can catch a glimpse of the forest from the canopy level. Between activities, it’s possible to lie down on a tranquil beach, dine at a mountaintop restaurant or even go for a swim in a clifftop pool.
Practical Info
If you only plan to hike, the cost of the tourist bus can be deducted from your admission ticket.
Address: Yalong Bay National Resort, Sanya, Southern China, China
Hours: 8am-5:30pm
Admission: 170 RMB
From $ 101
Yuexiu Park
Yuexiu Park, covering 247 acres in the heart of Guangzhou, is laced with walking paths winding past lakes, playgrounds, landscaped gardens and recreational areas. The park’s most recognizable landmark, the Five Ram Statue, is an emblem of Guangzhou City, depicting the five immortals who came to Guangzhou on the back of rams to deliver grain and prosperity to the starving people.
For a look at Guangzhou’s past and present, the park is home to the Guangzhou City Museum, housed within Xhenhai Tower. The five-story tower, built in 1380 during the Ming Dynasty, was originally used to protect the city from pirates before the British used the structure as a garrison after the first Opium War. Now the Ming-style building houses relics from the city’s 2,000-year history.
Visit the park early in the morning to see locals practicing tai chi or playing musical instruments. Throughout the day the lakes become crowded with fisherman looking to catch dinner and the paths become scattered with artists sketching or painting their surroundings.
For a look at Guangzhou’s past and present, the park is home to the Guangzhou City Museum, housed within Xhenhai Tower. The five-story tower, built in 1380 during the Ming Dynasty, was originally used to protect the city from pirates before the British used the structure as a garrison after the first Opium War. Now the Ming-style building houses relics from the city’s 2,000-year history.
Visit the park early in the morning to see locals practicing tai chi or playing musical instruments. Throughout the day the lakes become crowded with fisherman looking to catch dinner and the paths become scattered with artists sketching or painting their surroundings.
Address: Guangzhou, China
Hours: Open daily 6am - 10pm
From $ 39
Xizhou Town
One of the most picturesque towns in the vicinity of Dali, as well as one of the best places to see traditional Bai architecture, is the town of Xizhou. Formerly a military stronghold of the Nanzhou Kingdom, Xizhou began to flourish during the first half of the twentieth century when a group of over 100 wealthy nationalist families relocated there, calling themselves the Xizhou Chamber of Commerce.
While much of Dali’s traditional Bai architecture has been “updated” to suit the tastes of modern Chinese travelers, Xizhou remains relatively untouched — it’s home to the largest collection of Bai residential houses in China, over a hundred of which are considered registered cultural relics.
Most visitors come to Xizhou on a day trip from Dali, but those who choose to stay overnight can sleep in a Bai-style courtyard home, as several have been converted into guest houses.
Practical Info
Xizhou is located 12 miles (20 kilometers) north of Dali. The easiest way to get there is by minibus from the west gate of Dali.
Address: Xizhou, Yunnan 671003, China
From $ 160
Tiger Hill
Tiger Hill, a large hill-rock also known as Surging Sea Hill, is a must-see when visiting Suzhou, both for its beauty and its history. Traditional architecture, tranquil landscapes, and numerous historical sites dating back more than 2,500 years distinguish the hill as a top destination among the city's UNESCO-listed attractions. Highlights include the Tomb of King He Lu, the Sword-Testing Stone—a rock split cleanly in two pieces, supposedly by a legendary sword—and the famously lopsided Yunyan Pagoda, or 'Leaning Tower of China.' Also not to miss is the garden architecture at Wanjing Villa, where potted landscapes and bonsai shrubs create miniature classical gardens.
Tiger Hill, which gets its name from resembling the shape of a crouching tiger, is relatively small and compact, making it an easy stop on any day or half-day tour of Suzhou. Go with a guide to get the most out of the site's rich history, and consider combining your visit with entry to nearby attractions, like the Humble Administrator's Garden or Master of Nets Garden.
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. Adult admission is 80 CNY on peak months (April, May, July, August, September, and October), and 60 CNY on quiet months (January, February, March, June, November, and December). Some tours utilize the high-speed train rather than road transport.
Did You Know? The ancient art of bonsai tree growing, which originated in China, is still very much alive today. Hundreds of specimen of tree and landscape bonsais are displayed at Wanjing Villa, with many of them having won prizes in prestigious bonsai competitions.
Address: 8 Mennei Street, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm daily
Admission: Varies by season
From $ 81
Yamdrok Lake
Located about 62 miles (100 km) to the southwest of Lhasa, Yamdrok Lake is the largest lake in southern Tibet and one of the country’s three sacred bodies of water. More than 45 miles (72 km) long with depths of up to 197 feet (60 meters), this freshwater lake is a beautiful jade green color; the mirror-like surface reflects the clouds. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it’s also a place of pilgrimage for the Tibetan people and is said to be the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. Legend has it that if its waters dry up, Tibet will no longer be habitable. The waters of the lake are also rumored to make the old young again and improve the intelligence of children. Legends aside, Yamdrok Lake is known for commercial fishing and a variety of avian life.
Yamdrok Lake was also home to the Samding monastery, famous for the fact that it was the only one in Tibet to have a female abbot. The residence of the Dorje Pakmo (the highest female Lama), the monastery is currently inactive but is being restored.
Practical Info
It’s about a three- or four-hour trip from Lhasa to the summit of Kamba-la pass, which is 16,319 feet (4974 m) above sea level. From here, guests have the best views of Yamdrok Lake. If desired, they can travel down to the lake to touch the waters.
Address: China
From $ 1,880
Three Pagodas of Dali
Located a short walk north of the ancient city of Dali, the iconic Three Pagodas date back to the ninth and tenth centuries. The middle of the three, named the Qianxun Pagoda, was erected in the ninth century during the Tang Dynasty as one of the tallest pagodas ever built in China. The two other pagodas went up about a century later, and their architectural styles are more similar to buildings of the Song Dynasty.
While Dali has endured numerous earthquakes through the centuries, including a severe one in 1925, these three structures were some of the few buildings to survive undamaged (though one now leans slightly). The well-maintained park that houses the pagodas is also dotted with smaller Buddhist temples, statues and several small lakes, all with the Cangshan Mountains as a backdrop.
Practical Info
If the walk up to the pagodas is too much, there’s also a tourist bus that ferries passengers to the top of the hill.
Address: 214 National Road, Dali, Yunnan, China
Hours: 8am-7pm
Admission: 121 RMB
From $ 129
Yanuo Tropical Rain Forest Resort
Yanuo Tropical Rain Forest Resort, an eco-theme park for adventure enthusiasts, is set amid the lush greenery of Hainan Island, nicknamed the Hawaii of China. Park guests can hike along shaded paths through the dense forest, over bridges and past waterfalls, or for a thrill, zip line through the canopy or cool off with a waterfall climb.
A small village area has a cafe and some souvenir shops. While a guide through the park isn’t really necessary (and the official park guides speak limited English), it is possible to rent an audio guide inside with information on rainforest conservation and local Chinese legends about Hainan Island.
Practical Info
Weather in Sanya can get hot and humid. Remember to bring water, sunglasses and a hat.
Address: Sandao Town, Sanya, Southern China, China
Hours: 7:30am-6pm
Admission: 148 RMB
From $ 101
Three Gorges Dam (Sanxia Daba)
China’s largest construction project since the Great Wall and the biggest dam in the world in terms of installed capacity, the Three Rivers Dam spans 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) and is more than 600 feet (183 meters) tall. The dam is an impressive feat of engineering despite the controversy surrounding its environmental and human impacts.
The Basics
While you can’t walk on the dam, there’s a viewing area with a great perspective that allows for photo ops (especially when the turbines are spewing water from the reservoir). The small museum next to the viewing area has a large model of the dam and gives a brief history of the building project. If you’re cruising the Yangtze River to or from Yichang, you will likely have to pass through the five-step ship lock that allow boats to bypass the dam; most cruises include a shore excursion to the dam.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Three Gorges Dam is a must-see for visitors interested in science and engineering.
- Shade is limited around the dam, so be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
- The dam is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes and prepare to do a lot of walking.
- If you want to experience the ship locks during waking hours, choose a downstream Yangtze cruise toward Chongqing.
How to Get There
The dam sits 27 miles (43 kilometers) upstream from Yichang City in Hubei Province, and a vast majority of visitors see the dam as part of an organized shore excursion aboard a Yangtze River cruise. If you would rather see the dam by land, catch one of several buses from Yichang to the site.
When to Get There
Prices for Yangtze River cruises tend to be lowest during the winter and highest during the busy months of April, May, September, and October. For the best chance to see the impressive spectacle of the dam releasing water for flood control purposes, plan to visit during the rainy season (summer).
Three Gorges Dam by the Numbers
Building the Three Gorges Dam was a massive undertaking. The official bill came in at US$24 billion and some 244 square miles (632 square kilometers) of land was flooded, displacing 1.3 million people. The dam’s 26 turbines are capable of producing around three percent of China’s energy.
Address: Yangtze River, China
Admission: CNY 105 (including the minibus in the scenic area which runs every 20 mintes)
From $ 439
Tiananmen Square (Tiananmen Guangchang)
Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public plaza, has always been a symbol of Mao’s epic Communist project—and resistance to it. Despite its bleak history, the site of the 1989 massacre is today a bustling place, often teeming with tourists and local kids flying kites.
The Basics
One of the most famous landmarks in all of China, Tiananmen Square and its 125-foot-high (39-meter-high) granite Monument to the People’s Heroes features on just about every Beijing tour. Visitors from around the globe come to have their picture taken in front of the photo of Chairman Mao mounted on the monumental Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tiananmen). For those pressed for time, it’s possible to visit the Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square in a single day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tiananmen Square is a must-see for history buffs, people watchers, and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk; the square and neighboring Forbidden City are huge.
- Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the square provides little shade.
- Visitors are required to pass through a security checkpoint before entering the square.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Tiananmen Square is to take the Beijing subway Line 1 to either Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West, or Line 2 to Qianmen. Several public buses also stop at the square.
When to Get There
The national flagpole sits within Tiananmen Square, and the flag-raising ceremony that takes place at sunrise each morning is well worth seeing. Expect big crowds and long lines at the Forbidden City and Mao’s Mausoleum during peak tourist season in summer and on Chinese public holidays.
Attractions in Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square sits at the heart of Beijing, surrounded by some of the city’s top attractions. The Forbidden City, the Museum of Chinese History, the Museum of the Chinese Revolution, the Great Hall of the People, and the Chairman Mao Mausoleum bound the square, so there’s always a lot of activity.
Address: Beijing, China
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Yangshuo Cooking School
Taking a cooking class is a great alternative or addition to the usual sightseeing and the Yangshuo Cooking School offers just such courses to all those visitors, who don’t only want to munch their way around China, but want to do a bit of hands-on work as well. During lessons ranging from four hours to week long intensive courses, you will learn everything from buying the correct ingredients to preparing several Yangshuo dishes according to old recipes that have thousands of years of history attached to them. First, you will go to the local market, a huge complex of several buildings containing all the garlic root, taro fruit and Chinese broccoli you will need, seafood sections with frogs, crayfish and crabs in their big tanks and a big meat department, that not only offers chicken, but also tofu and an array of spices.
After everyone is done with the shopping, the new pupils are brought to the Cooking School, which is located in an old farmhouse with a beautiful courtyard and everyone gets their own work stations and equipment. Under the watchful eyes of the teachers, you learn the correct chopping techniques, that you have to heat the wok until it smokes before putting peanut oil in and what to do with those weird looking, purple aubergines. Of course, at the very end, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor and eat all the dishes you have prepared in the big courtyard during the big communal lunch.
Practical Info
The Yangshuo Cooking School has two locations, one is located right in Yangshuo on Bingjiang Road on the banks of the Li River, the other one in the village of Chao Long about 5 kilometers outside of Yangshuo.
Address: Bingjiang Road, Yangshuo, China
From $ 525
Xingping Village
Formerly a sleepy fishing village along the Li River, Xingping is now a popular visitor destination for its rural landscape and well-preserved ancient architecture. Hiking and biking are popular ways to soak in the scenery, and Xingping is also the starting point of many river cruises as it’s on an especially beautiful stretch of the Li River.
The Basics
Wander along Xingping Old Street and marvel at architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nearby Xingping Fishing Village features nearly 50 well-preserved residences with distinctive blue brick, black tiles, and stone pillars. Stop by the old banyan tree, planted in the Tang dynasty, that keeps “eating” Buddha statues and large rocks. Just outside of Xingping (about a 10-minute walk) is the landscape that’s featured on the back of the 20 Yuan note.
The best way to experience Xingping is by boat, bicycle, or on foot. Many day tours from Guilin and Yangshuo combine a visit to Xingping with a boat cruise along the Li River, or a hike or a bike ride alongside the Li River. Photographers delight in capturing fishermen fishing using cormorants, an experience best viewed at sunrise and sunset.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s about 1.3-miles (2-kilometers) from Xingping Ancient Town to Xingping Fishing Village.
- All the boats and rafts along the Li River are motorized.
- Those who ride a bicycle to Xingping should note that the Fuli route is mostly flat, while the tea plantation route features hills and is suitable for more experienced cyclists.
- If you plan to hike from Xingping to Yangdi, bring sun protection and water as there is very little shade.
How to Get There
Xingping is located about 16 miles (25 kilometers) north of Yangshuo, along the banks of the Li River. Buses depart for Xingping from Yangshuo Bus Station regularly and take about an hour. Yangshuo Train Station is also near Xingping. An alternative is to take a motorized bamboo raft from Yangdi (1.5 hours). Another popular way to visit Xingping from Yangshuo is to ride a bicycle or motorbike.
When to Get There
Xingping Village is a popular attraction and many tour groups stop here. Local market days can be lively time to visit, but expect large crowds. Crowds swell during the May and October national holidays, the height of the local tourist season. Sunrise and sunsets are the best times for taking photos of fisherman with cormorant.
The Many Hills Near Xingping
The many hills near Xingping have names reflecting what they are said to resemble. Take a look around and see if you can spot Five Finger Hill, Snail Hill, Liyu (Carp) Hill, Bijia (Pen Holder) Hill, Daojian (Knife and Sword) Hill, or Tablet Hill.
Address: Yangshuo, China
From $ 95
Yuen Po Street Bird Garden
Bird fanciers and lovers of old-world charm will enjoy this small park and garden with about 70 stalls for bird traders to conduct business. At one time the traders had their own market in Mongkok, known as Bird Street. This was demolished in the mid-1990s to make way for redevelopment, and the government relocated the traders to Yuen Po in 1997.
The stalls feature a wide array of winged friends in ornate cages, including some particularly lovely teak models. Particularly prized are the songbirds, who provide a constant soundtrack to the garden. Bird fanciers can pick up live feed, including crickets, and other bird-keeping supplies.
The Yuen Po Street Bird Garden also features a flower market and some traditional Chinese touches. The main entrance faces Boundary Street, and the market is open from 7am to 8pm daily.
The stalls feature a wide array of winged friends in ornate cages, including some particularly lovely teak models. Particularly prized are the songbirds, who provide a constant soundtrack to the garden. Bird fanciers can pick up live feed, including crickets, and other bird-keeping supplies.
The Yuen Po Street Bird Garden also features a flower market and some traditional Chinese touches. The main entrance faces Boundary Street, and the market is open from 7am to 8pm daily.
Address: China
Hours: 7am to 8pm daily
From $ 59
Tianjin Eye
When the Tianjin Eye was completed in 2008, it officially became the first and only observation wheel in the world to be built over a bridge. The 394-foot (120-meter) tall wheel straddles the Hai River above the Yongle Bridge, offering stellar views (on clear days or nights) of this city of some 7.5 million people.
The wheel features 48 passenger pods, each with an eight person capacity. One rotation around the wheel takes about 30 minutes. The best time to ride is at night, when the wheel is illuminated in colorful neon lights, visible from around Tianjin.
Practical Info
For the best photo op of the wheel lit up, opt for a boat ride on the Hai River at night.
Address: Yongle Bridge, Tianjin, China
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 9:30am-9:30pm; Mon 5pm-9:30pm
Admission: 70 RMB
From $ 105
Yangshuo
Yangshuo, near Guilin, is known for its breathtaking scenery full of dramatic limestone karst formations. With plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, Yangshuo is popular with hikers, bikers, and rock climbers, while rafting trips down the Li or Yulong rivers offer a more leisurely way to enjoy the picturesque countryside.
The Basics
Yangshuo is a well-known destination for many independent travelers in southern China, but a guided tour will make it easier to find hiking and biking routes. A guide can also help point out the countryside’s most scenic spots. Tours range from a few hours to multiple days and cover a range of activities, from biking and hiking to kayaking and rock climbing. Those looking for less active pursuits can try their hand at calligraphy, cooking, or learning Chinese while in Yangshuo. Most tours originate in Yangshuo or Guilin, but also from further afield like Guangzhou and Shanghai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Yangshuo is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and nature lovers.
- Bring a camera as there will be plenty of scenes to photograph.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection and water if engaging in more active pursuits.
- Those planning on climbing should check the status of different walls ahead of time, as they are subject to closures from time to time, often as a result of a dispute with local landowners.
How to Get There
Yangshuo is located 40 miles (65 kilometers) south of Guilin. The closest airport is Guilin. From Guilin, taxis will be the most direct, though expensive, option to Yangshuo. There are frequent minibuses (about 1.5 hours) and express buses (about 1 hour) from Guilin. Overnight sleeper buses are available from Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and Guangzhou. The nearest train station is Yangshuo Railway Station, near Xingping, 14 miles (22 kilometers) away. A pleasant and scenic alternative is to cruise down the Li River from Guilin.
When to Get There
Yangshuo is a very popular tourist destination year-round. Avoid visiting during Chinese national holidays. For those planning on engaging in outdoor activities, spring and fall are the best times to visit for the most pleasant weather.
Top Yangshuo Attractions
Within Yangshuo itself, top attractions include West Street and Green Lotus Peak. Nearby, popular attractions include Moon Hill and Big Banyan Tree, which are all along the scenic “Ten Mile Gallery” Road from Yangshuo. There are also many peaks to climb and caves to explore. Rafting along either the Li River or the Yulong River are also popular pastimes, as is exploring nearby villages like Xingping.
Address: China
From $ 55
Tianmen Mountain
Numbered among the most beautiful mountains on the planet, Tianmen Mountain in Hunan Province is for many the highlight of a visit to Zhangjiajie. The mountain summits at 4,983 feet (1,519 meters), with plenty of spectacular sights to see on the way up, including near vertical cliffs, a winding walkway appropriately named the 99 Bends and a rock arch called Heaven’s Gate.
Most visitors reach the mountain by riding the world’s longest aerial tramway — a 4-mile (7-kilometer) journey that takes about 30 minutes. Once on the mountain, visitors can choose to test their courage on a cliff-hanging walkway or a pair of glass skywalks. A two-person chairlift ferries visitors to the summit of Tianmen Mountain. A tourist bus winds along the 99 Bends to a natural cave in the mountain face.
Practical Info
The temperature at the top of the mountain might be significantly cooler than at the bottom, so be sure to dress in layers.
Address: Zhangjiajie, Southern China, China
Hours: Daily 8am-4pm
Admission: 258 yuan
From $ 113
Yao Mountain
Guilin is known as the city of rice farmers, spreading out in the midst of an impressive landscape full of steep mountain peaks on both sides of the Li River. The highest of these bizarre rock formations is Yao Mountain at over 900 meters. Here, only 12 kilometers outside of the city center, you can find a quiet mountain landscape and panoramic views over the hundreds of hills, rice fields and the charming rural villages outside of Guilin. Although there is a cable car ferrying people up and down Yao Mountain, there are also numerous hiking trails leading up and around the tall peak. A long cart slide offers a fun alternative for the way down, which leads through many twists and turns down much of the densely forested side of the mountain.
Most visitors come here to see the diverse flora of Southern China, which is beautiful throughout the year and changes constantly. Each season offers completely different views, with spring being especially popular due to the rosy, blooming azaleas. During the summer months, the pine trees and bamboo take over and cover the landscape in a vibrant blue-green, while during fall, the maple leaves turn a deep red and wild chrysanthemum flowers add vibrant dots of color to the landscape. But don’t miss out on a trip up the mountain in winter either, when mists swirl around the peaks and everything is dusted in a layer of snow and frost.
Yao Mountain is also a popular burial ground, something that is attributed to its good Feng Shui. The peak was named after the Yaoshan Emperor Temple, which can be found about halfway up the mountain, but there are also the Tombs of the Jingjiang Princes, one of the most famous attractions in the area, with over 300 tombs spread out over 100 square kilometers.
Practical Info
Yao Mountain is located about 12 kilometers east of the city center. To get there, take bus number 24 to the Prince Jingjiang stop, from where it’s a five-minute walk to the entrance. The cable car operates between 8:30am and 6pm.
Address: Guilin, China
From $ 31
Three Gorges Museum (Chongqing Museum)
Since 2005 this impressive museum has been providing both locals and visitors unprecedented access to scientific research, history, cultural heritage and educational resources related to the Three Gorges region near the Yangtze River. Well-curated exhibits showcase traditional arts like painting, calligraphy and porcelain. Ancient coins and sculpture from the Han Dynasty, as well as traditional costumes and artifacts from southwest China are also proudly displayed. The multi-level museum offers visitors historical context of the region with exhibits that tell the story of World War II, the war against Japan and the plight of more than 1 million people forced out of their homes for the construction of a new dam. Visitors who seek a deeper understanding of the culture, geography and history of Chongqing will find the Three Gorges Museum extraordinary.
Practical Info
The museum is located in the Yuzhong District of Chongqing. Travelers can reach the museum by taxi. There is no entrance fee.
Address: 236 Renmin Rd, Yuzhong, Chongqing, China
Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Admission: CNY 40
From $ 59