Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 121-140 of 356 listings.
New Territories
There was a time when this mountainous buffer between downtown Hong Kong and mainland China was populated solely by indigenous Hakka farmers and a scattering of old villages. That time wasn’t too long ago—just a mere number of decades. In the time that has lapsed since, however, the area known as the New Territories has exploded with growth and seen subsidized housing projects spring up as far as the eye can see. Although it’s now a sprawling suburb which houses 3.5 million people (half of Hong Kong’s population) there are still a number of worthwhile sights interspersed among the urban growth which transport visitors back to the New Territories of old.
Chief among the activities of most visitors is walking one of the historical trails such as Lung Yeuk Tau, a heritage trail which takes visitors past traditional walled villages constructed to guard against bandits and invaders. Pockmarked with rural parks—unlike the heavily urbanized areas of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon—the New Territories also feature legitimate treks and coastal walks where visitors can tackle trails such as the 1,400 foot (426.7 meter) Sharp Peak for a sweeping view of the city center.
For many the attraction of visiting the New Territories provides for a way to see how Hong Kong locals go about their daily life, yet attractions such as the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery still provide visitors the opportunity for some good old fashioned sightseeing. Those visiting the monastery will first have to climb a lengthy hill which is covered in plastic, golden arhats which peer out from bushes along the walkway. Once at the top, take in the 12,800 Buddha statues spread in all directions for a unique sight not to be found anywhere else in all of Hong Kong. Although this is just one example of the unique sights in the New Terrirories, the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery encourages visitors and locals alike to escape the city center for a spell and enjoy the slow pace of life found in the outer reaches of Hong Kong.
Chief among the activities of most visitors is walking one of the historical trails such as Lung Yeuk Tau, a heritage trail which takes visitors past traditional walled villages constructed to guard against bandits and invaders. Pockmarked with rural parks—unlike the heavily urbanized areas of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon—the New Territories also feature legitimate treks and coastal walks where visitors can tackle trails such as the 1,400 foot (426.7 meter) Sharp Peak for a sweeping view of the city center.
For many the attraction of visiting the New Territories provides for a way to see how Hong Kong locals go about their daily life, yet attractions such as the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery still provide visitors the opportunity for some good old fashioned sightseeing. Those visiting the monastery will first have to climb a lengthy hill which is covered in plastic, golden arhats which peer out from bushes along the walkway. Once at the top, take in the 12,800 Buddha statues spread in all directions for a unique sight not to be found anywhere else in all of Hong Kong. Although this is just one example of the unique sights in the New Terrirories, the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery encourages visitors and locals alike to escape the city center for a spell and enjoy the slow pace of life found in the outer reaches of Hong Kong.
Address: Hong Kong, China
From $ 87
Repulse Bay
Hong Kong and its surrounding islands have plenty of sleepy fishing villages and secluded beaches, but if you’re looking for a more upscale beach resort experience, you’ll find it at Repulse Bay. Primarily a high end residential area, Repulse Bay also has a crescent-shaped white sand beach -- one of the best on Hong Kong Island -- with a roped off area for swimming and a shopping and dining venue inside the Repulse Bay Tower.
Some of the beaches on Lantau and Cheung Chau Islands are nicer and quieter, but Repulse Bay scores extra points for its proximity to the city. In just a 20-minute bus ride from Central you can be soaking up the sun in Repulse Bay. To ensure a quieter beach experience, avoid the central portion of the beach where tour buses from the Mainland tend to unload; opt instead for eastern portion. You’ll find grocery and convenience stores in the area where you can buy supplies for a picnic lunch, but expect prices to be higher than if you stock up in the city before coming.
Some of the beaches on Lantau and Cheung Chau Islands are nicer and quieter, but Repulse Bay scores extra points for its proximity to the city. In just a 20-minute bus ride from Central you can be soaking up the sun in Repulse Bay. To ensure a quieter beach experience, avoid the central portion of the beach where tour buses from the Mainland tend to unload; opt instead for eastern portion. You’ll find grocery and convenience stores in the area where you can buy supplies for a picnic lunch, but expect prices to be higher than if you stock up in the city before coming.
Address: China
From $ 30
New Silk Alley Market (Xiu Shui)
The New Silk Alley Market is a popular shopping center situated in the Chaoyang district of Beijing. It’s sprawled across seven levels packed with tightly filled aisles of shops that accommodate more than 1,700 vendors, selling everything from traditional silk items and antiques to electronics and counterfeit designer brands.
It’s estimated that the New Silk Alley Market attracts around 20,000 visitors every week day, and anywhere upwards of 50,000 visitors on the weekends. In addition to a wide variety of silk products, this is where tourists and locals come to haggle fiercely for clothes, shoes, hats, handbags, belts, watches, and electronics, along with more traditional items such as handicrafts, antiques, paintings, trinkets, and jewelry.
Visitors should note that haggling is expected at the New Silk Alley Market; the vendors are not only used to driving a hard bargain, they’re incredibly good at it!
Practical Info
The Silk Street Alley Market is located at Yong'anli, just west of the China World Trade Center. It is directly accessible via a tunnel from Yong'anli Station on line 1 of Beijing’s subway system.
Address: No.8 Xiushui East Street, Beijing, Chaoyang District 100600, China
Hours: Daily 9am-9pm
From $ 24
Ngong Ping 360
The Ngong Ping 360 connects Tung Chung to Ngong Ping plateau, home to the iconic Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and Ngong Ping Village. Opened in 2006, the cable car provides easy access to the hillside attractions, and its views of Lantau Island and beyond have made the gondola journey itself a tourist attraction in its own right.
The Basics
Visitors with limited time can benefit from deals that include the Ngong Ping 360 along with an MTR pass and Big Buddha tour, while those wishing to avoid public transport can tick off the experience on a coach tour that includes hotel pickup. Alternatively, visitors looking to explore at their own pace and save money can take advantage of multi-day packages that offer access to several main attractions, including the Ngong Ping 360.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This attraction is very popular, so it’s worth booking ahead to skip the long lines.
- Ngong Ping 360 is fully wheelchair-friendly, with a level boarding platform and adjustable benches.
- Each journey takes around 25 minutes.
- At its highest point the cable car is 1,919 feet (585 meters) above sea level, so it’s not recommended for people with claustrophobia or acrophobia.
How to Get There
As with all major cities, it’s best to avoid driving—parking is expensive and the roads get busy. Tours offering round-trip transfer or included MTR usage are a convenient alternative; the lower cable car terminal is just a short walk from Exit B of the Tung Chung MTR Station on the Tung Chung MTR line. The terminal is also a 15-minute walk from Shun Tung Road Bus Station.
When to Get There
The Ngong Ping 360 is known for its panoramic views, so visit on bright, clear days. However, for visitors more interested in the summit’s attractions than the journey there, rainy days tend to get rid of the crowds, which means reduced wait times and plenty of elbow room for pictures.
Lantau Island
The Ngong Ping 360 was designed to improve access to the island’s main attractions, and there are lots of them in Lantau. The island’s parks, beaches, and mountains offer some of the best hiking and wildlife watching opportunities in Hong Kong. Look out for tours or trails that include Tai O, a fishing village not far from Ngong Ping, whose waters are home to native Chinese white dolphins.
Address: Tung Chung, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 19
Monument to the People's Heroes
The Monument to the People's Heroes stands in the center of Tiananmen Square, close to the Memorial Hall of Chairman Mao. Construction of the monument began in 1952 and was completed in 1958. It involved the use of thousands of pieces of marble and granite brought in from provinces on the outskirts of Beijing. The result is a towering rectangular structure measuring in at almost 40 meters high.
The monument is engraved with the dates of significant revolutionary events in China’s history. In the center of one side, a piece of stone is inscribed with the words, "Eternal Glory to the People's Heroes" in Mao Zedong's hand.
Practical Info
To reach the Monument to the People's Heroes and other attractions in this area, head for Tiananmen East station or Tiananmen West and walk south.
Address: Tiananmen Square, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 38
Oriental Pearl Tower (Dongfang Mingzhu Guangbo Dianshi Ta)
Once the tallest building in Shanghai, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower remains one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in Pudong, part of the skyline visible from The Bund. The sci-fi-esque 1,535-foot (468-meter) tower houses observation platforms, a glass-bottomed walkway, rotating restaurant, as well as the Shanghai History Museum in its basement.
The Basics
The Oriental Pearl Tower’s facade is impossible to miss during a Shanghai visit. There are plenty of excuses to get inside, too. Learn Shanghai’s history in the basement museum, dine with 360-degree views in the rotating restaurant, or see the views from the observation decks. Hop aboard a Huangpu River cruise or book a sightseeing tour that stops along The Bund for a photo op of the skyscraper’s famous views across the river.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Oriental Pearl Tower is a must-see for families with kids, photographers, and architecture buffs.
- Try to see the tower from across the river and up close for the complete picture.
- Most tours including the Oriental Pearl Tower provide hotel pickup and drop-off in Shanghai.
- Don’t forget your camera: The view of the tower from across the river ranks as one of the most well-known images of Shanghai.
How to Get There
Situated in Pudong Park, the Oriental Pearl Tower is well-connected by public transportation. Take the metro line 2 to Lujiazui Station and leave through Exit 1, take one of several public buses to Lujiazui Huanlu Fenhelu Station, or for something different, ride through The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to the Pudong side of the Huangpu River.
When to Get There
This Shanghai tower is visible from The Bund all the time, but the best views are at night when the spheres light up with colorful lights. Attractions within the tower are open daily throughout the year, though you should avoid visiting during Chinese national holidays when they’ll get very crowded.
Choose Your Height
The Oriental Pearl has five levels with visitor attractions. The tallest, at 1,152 feet (351 meters), is the Space capsule. The most popular area sits at 863 feet (263 meters), where you’ll find the main observation platform with its panoramic views of Shanghai city, while the 850-foot (259-meter) level has a circular glass-bottomed walkway. Thrill-seekers should try the VR roller coaster at 312 feet (95 meters), and a multimedia theater occupies 256-feet (78-meters) level.
Address: Lujiazui Lu 2, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 40
Qingyang Palace
An early Tang Dynasty classic, Qingyang Palace (also known as the Green Ram Temple) is considered to be one of the oldest and most important Taoist temples in all of China due to its location near the boyhood home of Lao-Tzu, the father of Taoism. Much of the palace was restored during the Qing Dynasty.
The Basics
For Sichuan visitors with a deep interest in Taoism, a trip to Qingyang Palace is a great way to either pass the afternoon or reflect on the ancient religion with a warm cup of tea and a comfortable seat from right within the walls of its source.
Many sightseeing tours include a visit to the temple, along with other popular Chengdu attractions, such as Renmin Park, Wuhou Temple, Jinli Street, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, depending on the option chosen.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The palace is a must-visit for spiritual travelers and history buffs.
- Give yourself about one hour to tour the temple grounds.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
Qingyang Palace is situated in northwest Chengdu. The easiest way to get there is to take one of several public buses to Qing Yang Gong Station. From there, it’s a short walk to the entrance.
When to Get There
The temple is open from morning to late afternoon daily throughout the year, though the best time to visit is during spring (March to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather isn’t too hot and the grounds aren't too crowded.
The Goats of Qingyang Palace
Local legend says that Qingyang Palace got the nickname Green Ram Temple from the pair of bronze goat statues flanking the altar of Sanqing Hall. One of the goats is recognizable for what it is, but the other boasts the ears of a mouse, nose of an ox, tiger claws, dragon horns, and a snake’s tail, among other features. Both statues are believed to have been taken from Beijing during the Qing Dynasty.
Address: China
From $ 15
Pingjiang Road
Pingjiang Road is an ancient canal-side street located in the city of Suzhou. The road and its surroundings have been around for more than 800 years, since the Song Dynasty. A popular tourist destination, this charming cobblestone street gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into local Suzhou life.
More than 1,600 meters long, Pingjiang Road is lined with quaint old bookshops, local theaters, and traditional Suzhou houses with whitewashed walls and black tiles. You’ll also find eccentric cafes, jewelry shops, and street food vendors, as well as a number of other restaurants. Locals and tourists alike gather in the teahouses for performances of Suzhou Pingtan, a traditional performance of ballad singing and storytelling in the local dialect, while those interested in architecture will be in their element with the ancient design of the buildings here – plus there are 18 bridges scattered across the Pingjiang district.
Despite being a popular tourist destination, Pingjiang remains a quiet place away from the noise of the city. Because of its location, a visit here can easily be combined with a tour of Suzhou’s other top attractions, such as the the Humble Administrator’s Garden or Lion Grove Garden. A boat ride on the surrounding canals is a scenic way to experience this unique district.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour with transport included, the quickest and easiest way to reach Suzhou from Shanghai is to take the high-speed express train between the two cities. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to spend the whole day out as there is a lot to see on Pingjiang Road and its surroundings.
Did You Know? Pingjiang Road first appeared in the Pingjiang Tu map produced in 1229. There are 51 smaller alleyways that intersect with the road, and around three kilometers of canals in the surrounding area.
Address: Pingjiang Road, Suzhou, Eastern China, China
From $ 55
Lama Temple (Yonghegong)
The Lama Temple (Yonghegong), one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples outside Tibet, began as a palace for Emperor Yongzheng before he became the third emperor of the Qing Dynasty. Today, the resplendent temple, with its halls, courtyards, ponds, and bronze mandala, is a lamasery for some two dozen Tibetan monks.
The Basics
If you only have time to visit one temple in Beijing, make it the Lama Temple (the Temple of Heaven isn’t really a temple). Inside you'll find five large halls, ornately decorated with Buddha statues in various incarnations, murals, and carvings. Many Beijing sightseeing tours include a visit to the temple, along with other Beijing attractions, such as the Summer Palace, Panda Garden, Jingshan Park, Beijing Zoo, and historic hutongs, depending on the option chosen.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Lama Temple is a must-see for those with an interest in history, architecture, or religion.
- Allow yourself an hour to 90 minutes to tour the temple grounds.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Remember this is a functioning temple for Tibetan Buddhism, so be respectful of the worshippers.
- Beijing tours that include the Lama Temple often last more than eight hours.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Lama Temple is to take the Beijing Subway (Line 2 or Line 5) to Yonghegong Station and take Exit C. From there, it’s just a short walk to the temple entrance.
When to Get There
The Lama Temple is open daily throughout the year with slightly reduced hours between November and March. While there’s no need to book a ticket in advance, it’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning before the tour buses. Avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays.
The Halls of Lama Temple
The Lama Temple complex comprises five main halls. Statues of the Future Buddha stand guard within the Hall of Heavenly Kings, while Past, Present, and Future Buddhas occupy the Hall of Harmony. A highlight for many is the 85-foot (26-meter) statue of Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood, on display in the Pavilion of Ten Thousand Fortunes.
Address: 12 Yonghegong Dajie, south of the North Second Ring Rd, Beijing, China
From $ 16
May Fourth Square
Situated in the heart of Qingdao’s business district, May Fourth Square commemorates the nationwide May Fourth Movement — a 1919 student protest against the government’s response to the Treaty of Versailles — that began in Qingdao.
At the heart of the park rises The Winds of May, a red sculpture reminiscent of a burning flame. On any given day, the park is filled with locals who come to walk, exercise, fly kites, cool off in the fountains and take in views of the sea.
Practical Info
May Fourth Square is a great place for a walk on the way to or from the beach.
Address: 35 DongHai West Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China
Hours: 24/7
From $ 55
Renmin Park (People's Park)
Located in central Chengdu, Renmin Park (People’s Park) offers a glimpse into the day-to-day life of local residents who come here to relax, exercise, play games like mah-jongg or chess, sing and dance, or find love matches for their loved ones. It’s a great place to slow down, have a cup of tea, and experience life as the locals do.
The Basics
A visit to Renmin Park is included in a number of guided Chengdu tours, ranging from half-day to multi-day options. The 28-acre (11.5-hectare) park is beautifully landscaped, with numerous walking paths and flower gardens, as well as an artificial lake where you can rent paddleboats. One of the best ways to enjoy Renmin Park is to people-watch over a cup of tea from one of the many teahouses in the park. Highlights include Jinshui Creek (with numerous trees and flowers along its banks), Heming Teahouse (the largest and best preserved teahouse in the park), Artificial Hill’s waterfall, Goldfish Island (home to hundreds of fish), the Orchid Garden, and the Bonsai Garden.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Renmin Park is open to the public and free of charge.
- Festivals and flower shows are held here on occasion, and entrance fees may apply.
- With a dedicated kids’ play area and arcade rides, it’s a great option for a family outing.
How to Get There
Renmin Park is located in central Chengdu. Take the Line 2 subway and get off at Renmin Park Station. A number of buses also stop at the park, including the 5, 13, 43, 53, 78, and 905.
When to Get There
Renmin Park is pleasant to visit year-round. For flower lovers, spring and summer are the best times to see blooms, while the chrysanthemum show is held in November.
Other Parks in Chengdu
Other Chengdu parks nature lovers should check out include Huanhuaxi, Chengdu’s largest park; Baihuatan Park, known for its bonsai garden and gingko trees; Wangjiang Park, known for its scenic pavilions and many species of bamboo; and Culture Park, which hosts many Sichuan opera performances and cultural exhibitions.
Address: China
From $ 15
Red Carp Pond
Red Carp Pond, or “Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor,” is one of the classic “Ten Scenes of West Lake” in Hangzhou. Formerly the garden of a Southern Song dynasty official, the stunning pond and flower views have been inspiring artists for more than 800 years and continue to draw visitors of all ages today.
The Basics
Red Carp Pond is a part of Flower Harbor (Huagang) Park, a 52-acre (21-hectare) park located inside West Lake. In addition to the pond, with its thousands of colorful carp, other key areas include a flower harbor, a peony garden, a great lawn, dense trees, and pavilions, including the octagonal Peony Pavilion and the Imperial Stele Pavilion.
Red Carp Pond is one of the most popular attractions inside West Lake and is often included in West Lake tours, with many boat cruises stopping at Huagang Park Wharf. If you plan to visit other top Hangzhou sights, consider taking a full-day tour, which will usually also include Leifeng Pagoda, Lingyin Temple, or a tea plantation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Flower Harbor Park is a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
- There is no admission fee to the park or the pond.
- This is a great place to take the whole family.
- Bring or buy some food, if you plan to feed the fish.
How to Get There
Red Carp Pond, at the southwest corner of West Lake, is located on a peninsula between the Inner and Small Southern lakes, and is accessible from the southern end of Su Causeway. Take bus nos. Y2 or Y10 and get off at the Su Causeway stop. You can also take a boat from other parts of West Lake to Huagang Park Wharf.
When to Get There
Red Carp Pond and Flower Harbor Park are very popular with both locals and tourists, especially on weekends and public holidays. Visit early in the morning and during the week to avoid the crowds. Visit in April or May to see peonies and other flowers in bloom.
Imperial Stele Pavilion
This pavilion features a stele with an inscription, “Viewing Fish at Flower Harbor,” written by Emperor Kangxi during the Qing dynasty. The traditional Chinese character for fish has four strokes at the bottom, but there are only three strokes here. Four strokes denote fire; three refer to water. It is said that the emperor wanted the fish to swim happily in the water, rather than cooked; hence, his poetic writing of the character for fish.
Address: China
From $ 58
Qingdao Beer Museum
The Qingdao Beer Museum was built in 2003 and commemorates some 100 years of German brewing history and heritage in China. Visitors to this top attraction can wander the halls of the two-story structure and learn about the traditions developed and perfected here, thanks to photo galleries and exhibits where brewing tools from the trade are on display. And while an up close look at the nation’s deep roots in hop history makes this place worth a stop, it’s cold and crisp samples straight from the production line that make a tour of the oldest working brewery worth a visit.
Practical Info
Qingdao Beer Museum is located in a two-story red building at No. 56, Dengzhou Road. It is also known by locals as Tsingtao Brewery. From July through September the museum is open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. and from October to June the museum is open from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Admission is CNY 60 from May to October and CNY 50 from November to April.
Address: 56 Dengzhou Rd, Qingdao 266023, China
Hours: July through September the museum is open from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. and from October to June the museum is open from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
Admission: CNY 60 from May to October and CNY 50 from November to April.
From $ 10
Nine Dragon Screen at the Palace Museum
During a 1773 renovation of a northeastern section of the Forbidden City, a Nine Dragon Screen was added to provide privacy for Emperor Qianlong’s retirement villa. Such screens can be found throughout China in palaces and gardens, each depicting nine different Chinese dragons in their carved reliefs. It is thought that evil sprits must travel in straight lines, so the Nine Dragon Screen is believed to serve the additional purpose of denying entry to evil spirits.
Each of the nine dragons on the wall are depicted playing with a pearl in the ocean. If you look carefully at the white dragons, one of them has a piece of wood on its stomach. According to local legend, the artisan responsible for the wall added the wood to replace a piece of broken glazed tile to meet his deadline. The gold dragon in the center of the screen is meant to represent the emperor.
Each of the nine dragons on the wall are depicted playing with a pearl in the ocean. If you look carefully at the white dragons, one of them has a piece of wood on its stomach. According to local legend, the artisan responsible for the wall added the wood to replace a piece of broken glazed tile to meet his deadline. The gold dragon in the center of the screen is meant to represent the emperor.
Address: 4 Jingshan Qianjie, Beijing, Northern China, China
Hours: April 1–Oct 31 8:30am–5pm; July 7–Aug 26 8am–5pm; Nov 1–March 31 8:30am–4:30pm
Admission: CNY20-CNY 60
From $ 58
Kids' City
The family-friendly, 17,000-square-foot Kids' City at Macau's City of Dreams is a place for kids to play, get involved with various activities, eat, and even sleep. Split into four main zones (dream, excite, create, and explore), this indoor park allows little ones to enjoy slides, rope bridges, ball pits, and inflatable bouncy castles.
There's also plenty to develop kids' creative sides, with soft clay, origami, and brightly colored crayons complete with a glass wall for scrawling on. A walk-in closet with princess dresses and superhero costumes will keep those who like to play dress-up amused, while arcade games, consoles, and an interactive video wall will appeal to older children. Professionally trained staff members are on hand at all time, allowing adults to relax for a few hours while the kids roam and play.
Insider Tip: Most hotels in the tourist area of Macau provide free shuttle buses to all major attractions, meaning you can get a free ride to the City of Dreams for your visit to Kids' City.
Practical Info
For convenience, it's best to pre-book your Macau Kids' City admission ticket, which allows entry for one child and one accompanying adult. Extra adults incur an additional charge. Tickets include two hours of play, but additional time can be purchased in 30-minute increments.
Address: Level 2, City of Dreams, Cotai Strip, Macau, China
Hours: 10:30am-9:30pm
Admission: Monday to Friday: MOP 120 / Weekends & school holidays: MOP 150 (Kid plus adult price)
From $ 79
Moon Hill (Yueliang Shan)
One of the most popular attractions in Yangshuo, Moon Hill (Yueliang Shan) is easily recognizable by its crescent-moon-shaped natural arch, the remnants of what was once a limestone cave (Moon Palace). Rising 750 feet (230 meters), Moon Hill offers stunning panoramic views of the countryside, which is dotted with unique karst formations.
The Basics
Visitors will need to climb over 800 marble steps to reach the 164-feet-high (50-meter-high) Moon Palace. In addition to superb views of the photogenic countryside, there are a number of interesting stalactites in Moon Palace. Those who wish to summit Moon Hill can hike farther along a natural—and sometimes very steep—path to the top of the arch.
Moon Hill is easy to locate and enjoy independently. Or, visit as part of a bike tour from Yangshuo, which will also include other scenic stops along the countryside, such as Yulong River, Dashi Village, and Aishan Village. Many rafting tours also include a stop at Moon Hill; nearby Gongnong Bridge is a common endpoint along the Yulong River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Moon Hill is a must-see for stunning panoramic views of the countryside.
- There is an entrance fee to access Moon Hill.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to climb to or past Moon Palace—the steps can be slippery, particularly if it has been raining.
- Although there are bolted routes at Moon Hill, climbing is not currently permitted. Check in advance for the latest conditions.
How to Get There
Moon Hill is located 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of Yangshuo within the newly created Yulong River Park. If you arrive by bus or taxi, you’ll need to enter the park and pay a small shuttle-bus fee from there. You can still enter without a fee on foot, by bike, or by boat.
When to Get There
Moon Hill is very popular with both Chinese and foreign tourists. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late afternoon, when there will also be fewer hawkers trying to sell you drinks and trinkets.
Ten Mile Gallery
Moon Hill is the end of the “Ten Mile Gallery,” a picturesque road from Yangshuo across the scenic countryside that features a number of tourist attractions, including Totem Ancient Path, Butterfly Spring Park, Big Banyan Tree, and Assembling Dragon Cave.
Address: Yangshuo, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Pingyao
The old town of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Shanxi Province, is often considered the best preserved ancient walled city in China. Founded in the 14th century, the old portion of the city covers 556 acres (225 hectares) that retain many of the features of a traditional Han city during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Construction on the old City Walls of Pingyao began in 1370, and visitors can still walk a 3.7-mile (6-kilometer) road on top of the ramparts to take in some of the best views of the old cobbled streets below. Ming-Qing Street, the main commercial street cutting through Pingyao, is lined with hundreds of traditional courtyard houses, shops and snack stands.
Practical Info
Cars and taxis aren't allowed in much of the old walled city, but it’s small enough to navigate on foot.
Address: Pingyao County, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
From $ 50
Qinghefang Ancient Street
Qinghefang Ancient Street, the best-preserved historical street in Hangzhou, stretches 1,575 feet (480 meters). East of West Lake, it’s a great place to shop, dine, and appreciate classical architecture. A number of buildings are from the Ming (1380–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties, and some of the shops date back hundreds of years.
The Basics
Qinghefang Ancient Street has been prosperous, filled with shops and restaurants, since ancient times. Businesses from Hangzhou’s past that are still open today include Zhang Xiaoquan Scissors (established in 1663), Wan Xing Ji Fan Store (established during the Qing dynasty), and Baohetang Pharmacy (with 1,000 years of history). There are also a lot of dining options, from food stalls selling street food to 140-year-old teahouses, such as the Taiji Teahouse, and restaurants like No. 1 Scholar Hall, known as the first noodle shop in Hangzhou.
It’s easy to visit Qinghefang Ancient Street independently. With so much packed into a small area though, it can be helpful to go on a guided tour to easily navigate the shops and restaurants, and to learn more about street’s long history. Day tours tend to include nearby attractions, such as West Lake, Leifeng Pagoda, and China National Silk Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Qinghefang Ancient Street is a must-visit for those who love shopping and history.
- Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on cobblestone lanes.
- This is a good place to pick up typical tourist souvenirs, and more unique handicrafts and curios, sometimes handmade on the spot by artisans.
How to Get There
Qinghefang Ancient Street lies to the east of West Lake (an about 20-minute walk) and at the foot of Wushan Hill. Take Metro Line 1 to Ding’an Road (Exit C) and walk 10 minutes to the south or take bus no. 8, 60, 127, 195, 208, or 216.
When to Get There
Qinhefang Ancient Street can be visited at any time. Shops tend to be open from 9am to 10pm. Public holidays, especially Lunar New Year, are extremely busy times. Visit during the day to better see the shops and architecture. Visit at night to see the street lit up with festive red lanterns.
Qinghefang Ancient Street Museums
There are a number of museums along Qinghefang Ancient Street, some more unusual than others, including the Zhejiang ancient ceramic museum, Guanfu art museum, Bingren Copper Sculpture Museum, and the World Coin Museum. Huqing Yutang is both a traditional Chinese medicine shop and a Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Address: Hangzhou, China
From $ 54
Reed Flute Cave (Ludi Yan)
Located 3 miles (5 kilometers) from downtown Guilin, this famous limestone cave is one of the top attractions in Guilin. It’s named for the reeds that grow outside the cave, which are used to make flutes. The cave stretches for 787 feet (240 meters), and is colorfully lit inside to highlight the interesting collection of stone pillars, stalactites, and stalagmites found within.
The Basics
Visitors follow a U-shaped route through the cave system to see the variously shaped formations. In addition, there are numerous inscriptions on the cave walls, said to be poems dating from the Tang Dynasty. Outside the cave, you’ll see pavilions, ponds, bridges, and gardens.
Reed Flute Cave can be easily visited independently. If you’re planning to visit other Guilin attractions, consider taking a half-day and full-day tour, which will typically include Reed Flute Cave and other attractions like Elephant Trunk Hill, Fubo Hill, and Seven Star Cave.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Flash photography is not permitted. Set your camera to a high ISO to better capture photos in the low-light environment.
- The tour through the cave typically takes about an hour.
- If you plan to purchase any of the flutes sold near the cave, be sure to bargain for the best price.
How to Get There
Take the No. 3 bus to Ludiyan or the No. 213 to Ludiyan Tingchechang.
When to Get There
Reed Flute Cave can be visited at any time. That said, it’s a popular destination and can get crowded, especially during weekends and on public holidays.
Rock Formation Names
A large number of the formations have Chinese names that refer to their shape. For example, there are formations named after different flowers, while others bear names like Fruit Mountain, Crystal Palace, Dragon Pagoda, and Rose Dawn Over Lion Peak. Just note that you may need to put your imagination to work to see the resemblance.
Address: China
Admission: Varies
From $ 63
Kong Family Mansion
Located in Qufu city, the Kong Family Mansion was the residence of the descendants of Confucius. Situated just to the east of the Confucius Temple, the Kong Family Mansion was the aristocratic home from where the family tended to the Confucian sites in Qufu. It was the largest residence of its kind in Chinese history.
Today, the mansion is a museum and, along with the Confucius Temple and the Cemetery of Confucius, makes up a UNESCO World Heritage Site collectively known as San Kong (meaning ‘The Three Confucian Sites’). The mansion is set out in the traditional Chinese way, with the official rooms at the front and residential lodgings at the back. Visitors go to marvel at the grandiose exterior and elaborate interior of the mansion and to see the cultural relics still preserved there, including a number of scrolls and paintings.
Practical Info
The Kong Family Mansion and the other Confucius sites are situated in the city of Qufu in the southwest of Shandong Province. The Family Mansion and the Confucius Temple sit together in one area, with the cemetery just a few kilometers away.
Address: Qufu, Shandong, China, China
From $ 396