Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 161-180 of 356 listings.
Nathan Road
Hong Kong’s Nathan Road is the main thoroughfare in Kowloon that runs from from Tsim Sha Tsui to Sham Shui Po. This busy street is lined with a huge array of food and shopping outlets and can usually be found brimming with tourists.
Nathan Road is the oldest street in Kowloon and these days is lined with dazzling neon signs that point the way to both cheap and upmarket establishments. If you intend to visit Nathan Road for its shopping opportunities, you won’t be disappointed. Open right up until midnight, Nathan Road has it all, from boutiques touting the latest fashion designs, to electronics shops selling every brands of digital camera and cell phone imaginable.
Food-wise, Nathan Road is awash with options, from local cuisine to international dishes. There are also a number of foodie gems hidden away in the side streets leading off from Nathan Road in addition to the main street itself.
Practical Info
Reaching anywhere on Nathan Road shouldn’t be a problem — there are no less than five MRT stations built beneath the road, and there are also numerous bus routes that run through it.
Address: Nathan Road, Hong Kong, China
From $ 34
Jingshan Park (Yingshan Gongyuan)
Jingshan Park (Yingshan Gongyuan), a green space in the heart of Beijing and home to one of the city’s few hills, was made from the earth dug out to make the Forbidden City’s moat. Covering about 57 acres (230,000 square meters), Jingshan Park once served as an imperial garden during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.
In the early morning hours, the park fills up with elderly locals who gather in groups to since or practice tai chi. Come early and climb to the top of the park’s central peak -- once Beijing’s highest point -- for views of the Forbidden City to the south, Drum and Bell Towers to the north and Beihai Park to the west.
Each spring, the park’s flowers put on a colorful display, particularly in May when the 200 varieties of peonies begin to bloom. With around 20,000 peony plants, Jingshan Park is home to the largest peony garden in Beijing.
In the early morning hours, the park fills up with elderly locals who gather in groups to since or practice tai chi. Come early and climb to the top of the park’s central peak -- once Beijing’s highest point -- for views of the Forbidden City to the south, Drum and Bell Towers to the north and Beihai Park to the west.
Each spring, the park’s flowers put on a colorful display, particularly in May when the 200 varieties of peonies begin to bloom. With around 20,000 peony plants, Jingshan Park is home to the largest peony garden in Beijing.
Address: No. 44 Jingshan E St, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Nov - Mar and 6:30am - 8pm; Apr - Oct 6:am - 9pm.
From $ 15
Jiuzhaigou Valley
Set in northern Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou Valley is regarded by many Chinese as a place akin to being heaven on Earth. One of China’s most famous National Parks, Jiuzhaigou Valley is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site where giant pandas (albeit only about 20) still roam the forested hillsides. A remote wilderness set on the steps of the Tibetan Himalayan Plateau, Jiuzhaigou Valley is a 278 square mile (720 square kilometer) wonderland of turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls and snowcapped mountain peaks which form the southern edge of the Minshan mountain range.
Jiuzhaigou Valley is literally translated as “Nine Village Valley,” of the nine Tibetan villages from which the park derives its name, and seven are still inhabited and accessible to park visitors and trekkers. With a population numbering little more than 1,000 inhabitants, the simple villages of Jiuzhaigou are an alluring and mystical complement to the pristine panoramas and scenery.
Located 205 miles (330 kilometers) from the city of Chengdu, this once inaccessible valley is rapidly growing in visitor popularity and is now accessible by either a ten hour bus ride or a 40 minute plane flight. Myriad trekking options lay scattered throughout the park, despite elevations which range from 6,600 to 15,700 feet (10,621.7 to 25,266.7 kilometers). Scores of visitors opt to trek to serene backcountry outposts such as Five Color Pond in the Zechara Gully, where travertine mineral formations provide a kaleidoscope of colors drifting in the high-altitude waters.
While the presence of wild giant pandas understandably dominates talk of the park’s flora and fauna, Jiuzhaigou Valley also houses over 140 bird species as well as golden monkeys, golden pheasants and the rarely sighted and reclusive snow leopards. Though the future of Jiuzhaigou Valley remains uncertain amid concerns over growing visitor numbers, the entire region nevertheless ranks as one of China’s most revered and scenic natural outposts.
Jiuzhaigou Valley is literally translated as “Nine Village Valley,” of the nine Tibetan villages from which the park derives its name, and seven are still inhabited and accessible to park visitors and trekkers. With a population numbering little more than 1,000 inhabitants, the simple villages of Jiuzhaigou are an alluring and mystical complement to the pristine panoramas and scenery.
Located 205 miles (330 kilometers) from the city of Chengdu, this once inaccessible valley is rapidly growing in visitor popularity and is now accessible by either a ten hour bus ride or a 40 minute plane flight. Myriad trekking options lay scattered throughout the park, despite elevations which range from 6,600 to 15,700 feet (10,621.7 to 25,266.7 kilometers). Scores of visitors opt to trek to serene backcountry outposts such as Five Color Pond in the Zechara Gully, where travertine mineral formations provide a kaleidoscope of colors drifting in the high-altitude waters.
While the presence of wild giant pandas understandably dominates talk of the park’s flora and fauna, Jiuzhaigou Valley also houses over 140 bird species as well as golden monkeys, golden pheasants and the rarely sighted and reclusive snow leopards. Though the future of Jiuzhaigou Valley remains uncertain amid concerns over growing visitor numbers, the entire region nevertheless ranks as one of China’s most revered and scenic natural outposts.
Address: China
From $ 70
People's Square (Renmin Guang Chang)
The massive People’s Square, or Renmin Guang Chang, is in the heart of Shanghai. Surrounded by the city’s municipal government headquarters, a park, and several top museums, the major landmark makes for a popular meeting spot, as well as being at the center of politics, culture, transportation, and tourism in Shanghai.
The Basics
Covering an area of 1.5 million square feet (140,000 square meters), People’s Square can hold 1.2 million people. People’s Park provides a welcome green space in the urban area. Other attractions include the top-rated Shanghai Museum, Shanghai History Museum, Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, and Shanghai Grand Theater. There’s also a vast shopping area underneath People’s Square.
Combine a visit to People’s Square with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai, a Huangpu River dinner cruise, or a half-day, full-day, or evening sightseeing tour that includes other top Shanghai attractions, such as the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, or Xintiandi. Cruise ship passengers, those on a layover, and others who want personalized attention might consider a customized private tour with a stop at People’s Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s free to visit People’s Square.
- There are 20 exits for the People’s Square metro station so check to see which exit gets you closest to the area of the square you want to see.
- When exploring the area, remember to wear comfortable shoes.
- While People’s Square itself is wheelchair accessible, not all attractions and businesses around it are.
How to Get There
People’s Square is located in the Huangpu district. By metro, take Lines 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station. Numerous buses also stop at People’s Square, including bus 18, 20, 23, 37, 46, 48, 49, 108, 109, 112, 123, 145, and 518.
When to Get There
Although People’s Square can be visited at any time, different attractions have different opening hours. Early mornings are a great time to see locals exercising and practicing tai chi. Weekends and holidays can be very busy; visit during the week for smaller crowds.
People’s Park Marriage Market
People’s Square Marriage Market, where parents try to find matches for their grown children, takes place every Saturday and Sunday from noon until 3pm. It’s worth a visit, even if you’re not looking for love. The market takes place just inside Gate 5 of People’s Park. Take Exit 9 of the People’s Square Station and head left on Nanjing Xi Lu to find it.
Address: People's Square, Shanghai, China
From $ 31
National Center for the Performing Arts
The unmistakable National Center for the Performing Arts sits immediately to the west of Tiananmen Square and the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing. This oval structure is made from thousands of titanium plates combined with sheets of glass and is surrounded by an artificial lake, which from afar gives the appearance of a giant egg floating on the water. This appearance has earned the building the nickname, ‘The Giant Egg.’
The National Center for the Performing Arts houses three separate yet connected performance venues, including the Opera House, the Concert Hall, and the Theater Hall. The center hosts national and international classical music performances, as well as opera, ballet, and traditional Chinese dance performances.
Practical Info
To reach the National Center for the Performing Arts, take a Line 1 subway train to Tiananmen West and use Exit C. There is an underground passage from here directly to the venue. The center is closed on Mondays but open throughout the day from Tuesday to Sunday for general visits. Tickets for specific shows can be purchased at the ticket office at the north gate.
Address: 2 W Chang'an Ave, Xicheng, Beijing, China
From $ 6
Jokhang Temple
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Lhasa, Jokhang Temple is located on Barkhor Square. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of the historic ensemble of the Potala Palace and is a spiritual center of Lhasa. Constructed in 642 by King Songtsen Gampo, Jokhang became a famous temple after the Buddhist master Atisha taught here in the 11th century.
The site consists of four levels of labyrinthine chapels dedicated to gods and bodhisattvas; the dim light of votive candles creates a glow about the place and the smell of incense is everywhere. The entire structure is comprised of an entrance porch, courtyard and Buddhist hall surrounded by accommodation for monks and storehouses on all four sides. The buildings are of wood and stone with a gold roof, and the whole thing is an outstanding example of Tibetan Buddhist style. Jokhang also reveals influences from China, India and Nepal. More than 3,000 images of Buddha and other deities and historical figures are housed here, along with many other treasures and manuscripts. Climb to the top of the temple for a view of Jokhang Square and the pilgrims who circumnavigate the site as part of their pilgrimage. Many prostrate every few feet, while others walk slowly, chanting sacred mantras and spinning hand-held prayer wheels. The top level of Jokhang Temple also provides one of the best views of Potala Palace in the distance.
Practical Info
Jokhang Temple is located in Barkhor Square, in the heart of Lhasa. It’s accessible by foot but is only open to pilgrims in the morning. Wait until the afternoon to visit, but know that the Chinese government carefully controls the site, so rules can change quickly and without warning. Admission is free.
Address: Barkhor Square, Lhasa, China
Hours: Morning for pilgrims only; visitors welcome in afternoon
From $ 220
Nanluoguxiang
Nanlouguxiang, an alleyway in Beijing lined with traditional hutong courtyard houses, has a history spanning more than 800 years. One of Beijing’s oldest hutongs, Nanluoguxiang was built during the Yuan Dynasty and today houses a collection of bars, restaurants, boutiques and galleries.
Located near the Drum and Bell Tower, Nanluoguxiang makes a convenient shopping stop if you’re looking for a way to spend an afternoon. Many of the shops in the area cater to foreign visitors with postcards, Communist-era propaganda posters, T-shirts and kitschy souvenirs to take back home with you. You’ll also find several boutiques selling high-quality Chinese handicrafts. While the neighborhood gets crowded, it’s quieter than the hutong near the Back Lakes.
Located near the Drum and Bell Tower, Nanluoguxiang makes a convenient shopping stop if you’re looking for a way to spend an afternoon. Many of the shops in the area cater to foreign visitors with postcards, Communist-era propaganda posters, T-shirts and kitschy souvenirs to take back home with you. You’ll also find several boutiques selling high-quality Chinese handicrafts. While the neighborhood gets crowded, it’s quieter than the hutong near the Back Lakes.
Practical Info
Subway: Line 6 and Line 8 (at Nanluoguxiao).
Address: Nanluoguxiang, Beijing, China
From $ 14
National Art Museum of China
The National Art Museum of China is one of the largest art museums in the country. Its permanent collection includes both ancient and contemporary Chinese artwork, as well as notable works from international artists. The third floor is dedicated to the museum’s temporary exhibitions, which have included such exhibits as the popular World of Puppets show.
Art lovers will be in their element at the National Art Museum of China, with modern art being the main focus here, despite the collection of imperial Chinese art also on display. Symbolism, culture, ethnicity, and the abstract are all strong themes explored throughout the museum.
A maximum of 4000 free tickets are issued each day at the museum. One free ticket per person is permitted per day, but only if valid photo ID is shown.
Did You Know? The architectural concept behind the National Art Museum of China is said to be based on uniting dualities, such as past and future, large and small, calm and dynamic. The museum’s two drum-like structures reference ancient Chinese stone drums.
Practical Info
The National Art Museum of China is around a ten-minute walk from Exit E of Dongsi Station on Line 5 of the subway. To reach the museum by bus, take the number 103 or 111 and alight at the National Art Museum of China.
Address: 1 Wusi Street, Beijing 100010, China
Hours: 9am-5pm
Admission: Free (Bring photo ID)
From $ 65
Nanshan Temple
Built in 1988 to commemorate two thousand years of Buddhist history in China, Nanshan Temple and the surrounding Buddhism Cultural Zone serve as a window into China’s rich Buddhist heritage. Nanshan is also the largest Buddhist temple established since the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
Situated at the foot of Nanshan Mountain, the temple architecture was heavily influenced by the Tang Dynasty. Visitors enter the grounds through The Mountain Gate, where two figures of the Buddha stand guard. Several more statues of the Buddha in his various forms live within the two main halls of the temple. A terrace in front of the temple looks out over the South China Sea, affording stunning views of the nearby 354-foot (108-meter) copper statue of the Buddhist goddess Guan Yin.
Come hungry, as the vegetarian food served at the temple restaurant is famously tasty.
Practical Info
Nanshan Temple is located 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of Sanya City along the Hainan West Expressway.
Address: Hainan West Expressway., Sanya, China
Hours: 8am-6pm
Admission: 150 RMB
From $ 250
Peak Tram
For over 100 years, the Victoria Peak Tram has been inclining its way up Victoria Peak on Hong Kong Island. The service began as a coal-fired tramway in 1888 and was electrically powered starting in 1926. Today, some 7 million people take a ride on the funicular railway every year for its spectacular panoramic views. At the top, you’ll find the ultramodern Peak Tower with its restaurants and Sky Terrace 428 viewing platform, nature trails, and the Victoria Peak Garden.
The Basics
Taking a ride on the steeply angled tram is an essential Hong Kong experience, and there are plenty of ways to make it happen. Opt for a basic or skip-the-line tram ticket, or choose a tour that includes a ride on the tram, along with visits to other Hong Kong attractions like Stanley Market, Aberdeen, Victoria Harbour, and the Mid-Levels Escalator. Travelers with a long layover in the Hong Kong Airport can ride the tram on a layover tour with airport transfer.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A ride on the Peak Tram is a must-do for first-time visitors to Hong Kong.
- Choose between a basic admission ticket and a Peak Tram Sky Pass ticket that includes access to The Sky Terrace, Hong Kong’s highest 360-degree observation platform.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to hike the nature trails at the top.
How to Get There
If you’re not riding the Peak Tram as part of a guided tour of Hong Kong Island, the easiest way to reach the main station is by taking the MTR to Admiralty (Exit C1) or Central Station (Exit J or K). There’s also a shuttle bus from the Central bus station to the Peak Tram Lower Terminus that departs every 15 to 20 minutes. The Peak Tram is also a stop on the Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour.
When to Get There
For the shortest lines and the sparsest crowds on the observation decks at the top, plan to ride the Peak Tram first thing in the morning. Weekdays are generally quieter as well. If you visit on a public holiday, weekend afternoon, or in the evening before the city’s Symphony of Lights show on Victoria Harbour, expect long lines to board.
Other Ways to Get to the Top
If you’re greeted by a long line at the Peak Tram station, don’t worry; there are other ways to get to the top of Victoria Peak to enjoy the views. Bus 15 takes passengers from Central Station to the Peak, and Route 1 of the minibus will also get you there. While more expensive, it’s also possible to take a taxi to the top.
Address: Garden Road, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Adults: HK$45
From $ 12
Jin Mao Tower
The tallest building in China when it was completed in 1999, Shanghai’s landmark Jin Mao Tower reaches nearly 1,380 feet (420.5 meters). The main draw for most visitors is the observation deck on the 88th floor—the largest in the city—which offers stunning 360-degree views over Shanghai.
The Basics
Also known as the Golden Prosperity Building, Jin Mao Tower combines modern architectural engineering with traditional Chinese design, featuring the auspicious number 8 prominently, from its 88 floors to its octagonal pagoda-like design. The observation deck is the largest in Shanghai, with an area of 16,400 square feet (1,520 square meters) and capacity for 1,000 people. High-speed elevators take only 45 seconds to reach the 88th floor. The tower has numerous dining and entertainment options, as well as a five-star hotel.
Combine a visit to Jin Mao Tower with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai, a Huangpu River dinner cruise, or a half-day, full-day, or evening sightseeing tour that includes other top Shanghai attractions. Cruise ship passengers and those on a layover can take a customized private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture stunning Shanghai vistas.
- Visitors to Jin Mao Tower may have to undergo a security check before entering.
- Purchase admission tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in line.
- The observation deck at Jin Mao Tower is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Jin Mao Tower is located at 88 Century Boulevard, Lujiazui District, in Pudong. By metro, take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station (Exit 6) and walk south. Alternatively, take bus 85, 774, 971, or 992 to Lujiazui Station. Or take City Sightseeing Bus Line 2 and get off at Jin Mao Tower.
When to Get There
Time your visit to Jin Mao Tower’s observation deck, which is open daily from 8am to 10pm, for a clear day for the best views. Or arrive visit just before sunset and stay for the nighttime views, when buildings on both sides of the Huangpu River light up.
Jin Mao Skywalk
Those who dare can now walk on the outside of Jin Mao Tower, on the glass-bottomed skywalk running along the 88th floor observation deck. With a length of 196 feet (60 meters) and a width of 4 feet (1.2 meters), the walk has no guardrails. Instead, adventurous visitors wear hard hats and safety harnesses attached to the building that allow them to walk freely along the skywalk.
Address: 88 Shi Ji (Century) Boulevard, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road)
Shanghai’s premier shopping street, Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road) features businesses ranging from small shops and stalls to massive department stores and malls. It’s the world’s longest shopping district, stretching 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers) from the Bund to Jing’an Temple, and attracts over a million visitors a day.
The Basics
Nanjing Road is divided into Nanjing Road East, which includes the popular pedestrian strip and historical buildings, and Nanjing Road West, which has more modern structures. Though it’s possible to find anything on Nanjing Road, visitors often shop here for local products such as silk, paintings, calligraphy, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Many half- and full-day Shanghai tours feature a stop at Nanjing Road. Choose a walking tour, bike tour, or bus tour and visit the popular shopping street in addition to other top Shanghai attractions, such as the Bund and Yuyuan Garden. Or opt for an evening Nanjing Road visit combined with a Huangpu River cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nanjing Lu is a must for first-time visitors to Shanghai and those who love to shop.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk the length of Nanjing Road.
- If you get tired of walking, board the tram that runs down the eastern part of the road.
- There are a lot of touts and hawkers on Nanjing Road, and some can be very aggressive. It’s best to ignore them or say no firmly and move away.
How to Get There
The eastern part of Nanjing Road runs from the Bund to People's Square, and the western part runs from People's Square to Jing'an Temple. You can start from the Bund and walk, or you can take metro line 2 or 10 to Nanjing Road East, the start of the pedestrian zone. To reach the center of Nanjing Road, take subway line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square, then walk east toward the Bund or west toward Jing’an Temple.
When to Get There
Nanjing Road can be visited anytime, but shops tend to be open from about 10am to about 10pm. Visit during the day to admire the architecture and experience the crowds, and come back in the evening, when the street lights up in neon. Nanjing Road is very popular and becomes extremely crowded on weekends and holidays.
Historical Shops of Nanjing Road
Some shops on Nanjing Road date back to the Qing dynasty. They include Shanghai Laojiefu Department (1860), which sells clothes, fabrics, and silks; Duo Yun Xuan (1900), which sells calligraphy and painting; Heng De Li Clocks and Watches Co. (1864), which sells luxury watches and clocks; and Cai Tong De Pharmacy (1882), which specializes in traditional Chinese medicine.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 31
Jingjiang Mansion
Guilin is mainly known for the magical karst landscape surrounding it, but next to the nature there is also plenty of culture. In fact, the town has been an imperial city since the Qin Dynasty and its main estate bears witness to this glorious past and the city’s long history. The Jingjiang Mansion, also called the Jingjiang Princes’ City, was the seat of the Jingjiang Family, who reigned in this part of China between 1368 and 1644. The mansion was built after the first Ming Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhan, made his nephew, today known as King or Prince Jingjiang, ruler of the Guilin region.
Designed to function as the inner city of Guilin, the mansion and grounds are very extensive and include four halls, several pavilions and over 40 secondary buildings surrounding the main mansion. The property was built in the typical imperial style and according to the strict rules of the Ming Dynasty, which can be seen in the yellow walls that are topped by tiered roofs and encircled by tall, red pillars. The property is also enclosed by a 1.5-kilometer-long wall with the buildings, gates, the palace, the gardens and the quarters being arranged on a symmetrical axis.
The center of this axis is a karst hill called the Solitary Beauty Peak, a towering 216 meter high mass of sharp limestone cliffs interspersed by green vegetation. Exactly 306 steps lead to the top of the peak, where visitors can find the Solitary Beauty Pavilion with its red pillars, as well as panoramic views over the now modern city. It took over 20 years to build the imperial city and 630 years of history took place within those walls, but today, Jingjiang Mansion is the site of the Guangxi Normal University.
Practical Info
Jingjiang Mansion can be found in the center of Guilin and opens daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm. The closest bus station is Lequn Road, which is serviced by bus numbers 1, 22, 30, 99 and 100.
Address: Donghua Rd, Guilin, China
From $ 93
Man Mo Temple
You’ll probably smell Man Mo Temple before you get there, as worshippers light enough giant incense coils within to turn the air an odd shade of blue and ensure everyone who enters leaves with a distinctive but pleasant Taoist perfume. Originally built in 1847, Man Mo is Hong Kong’s most famous temple, dedicated to the gods of literature and war. Students make up a significant portion of devotees who come seeking divine aid in their studies.
Within the temple, look for a statue of a man in green robes with a writing brush. This is one of the gods for which the temple is named -- Man Chung, the god of literature. Statues of Kwan Yu, the Chinese god of war, flank the main alter. As a famous general known for his martial successes, Kwan Yu is sometimes considered the deity of both the police force and the Chinese triads.
If you’re feeling particularly superstitious on your visit to Man Mo Temple, head into the hall to the right of the entrance to have your fortune told by an English-speaking teller who will divine your future using several bamboo sticks and a cup.
Within the temple, look for a statue of a man in green robes with a writing brush. This is one of the gods for which the temple is named -- Man Chung, the god of literature. Statues of Kwan Yu, the Chinese god of war, flank the main alter. As a famous general known for his martial successes, Kwan Yu is sometimes considered the deity of both the police force and the Chinese triads.
If you’re feeling particularly superstitious on your visit to Man Mo Temple, head into the hall to the right of the entrance to have your fortune told by an English-speaking teller who will divine your future using several bamboo sticks and a cup.
Address: 126 Hollywood Road, Hong Kong, China
From $ 53
National Tea Museum
The National Tea Museum is the only tea-themed museum in China. It was opened in 1991 and is located in Westlake Village in Shuangfeng, Hangzhou. The museum is surrounded by clusters of tea farms and features various exhibition halls that depict the history and development of tea over thousands of years.
The museum's Evolution Hall showcases the production process of Chinese tea, as well as a variety of imported types. As the name suggests, the Teaware Hall traces the evolution of Chinese teaware, as well as concentrating on the planting, production, and tasting of tea. The Tea Customs Hall is devoted to the impact that tea has had on the lives of various minority groups in China throughout its long history, while the Kaleidoscope Hall features hundreds of different kinds of tea, including the six classic types in China.
Practical Info
To reach the National Tea Museum, take tourist bus Y3 or K27 and alight at Shuangfeng Station. Audio tours are available at the museum entrance.
Address: 88 Longjing Lu, Hangzhou, Xihu District 310000, China
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 8:30am-4:30pm / Closed on Mondays
From $ 62
Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market)
For a uniquely local shopping experience, plan to spend a few hours at Beijing’s Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market). The market is famous for its three floors of dealers selling pearl strands from around the world and is the largest pearl market in the country, where you'll find freshwater and salt water items in nearly every shape, size, color and price point imaginable. If you’re planning to purchase higher quality pearls, know what you’re looking for before you go, since quality varies widely.
Contrary to the name, the Pearl Market does offer more than just pearls. The three basement floors house a massive seafood market where many of Beijing’s major hotels and restaurants come to bid on fresh seafood. On the ground floor, you’ll find electronics and watches, and the second floor houses silks, brand name clothing, shoes, handbags and luggage. Haggling is expected throughout the market.
Contrary to the name, the Pearl Market does offer more than just pearls. The three basement floors house a massive seafood market where many of Beijing’s major hotels and restaurants come to bid on fresh seafood. On the ground floor, you’ll find electronics and watches, and the second floor houses silks, brand name clothing, shoes, handbags and luggage. Haggling is expected throughout the market.
Address: No. 9 Tiantan Rd, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Hours: 9am-7pm
From $ 36
Jinsha Site Museum
This popular museum is a rare blend of modern Chinese civilization and old-world Shu State history, known for its “three mosts” distinction. Opened in 2006, the Jinsha Site Museum is recognized as holding the most ancient ivory; unearthing the most gold artifacts and uncovering the most jade during the Bronze Age. It is home to a Relics Hall, Exhibition Hall, Cultural Heritage Protection Center and an Ecological Garden. Travelers are drawn to the museum’s rich history, well-kept gardens and impressive collection of lifelike, hand-carved stone figures. Visitors can wander the grounds and take in scenes from daily life dating back some 3,000 years in the famous exhibition hall, then catch a colorful performance at the Cultural Heritage Protection Center.
Practical Info
The museum is open daily from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tickets cost 80 CNY for adults and sales stop at 5:30 p.m. The museum is accessible via the 306 Bus from Shuangliu Airport, which transfers to the 5 or the 111. The 52 bus from North Train Station also offers trips to Jinsha Site Museum, though travelers must transfer to the 7. The 5, 81 and 7 buses, which start from Chengdu City center travel directly to the museum.
Address: Chengdu, China
Hours: Daily 8am - 6pm
Admission: Adults 80 CNY
From $ 15
Nan Lian Gardens
The golden temple, brilliant red bridge and colorful flowers of Nan Lian Garden have been welcoming travelers in search of ancient Chinese beauty since its doors opened in 2006. Visitors to this classic garden will find relaxing ponds and trickling streams, expertly pruned trees and Zen rock gardens typical of the old-school Chinese tradition.
After exploring the beauty of Nan Lian Gardens, travelers can venture into exhibit halls, where informative displays outline ancient architectural practices used to build all wooden structures on site. A typical Chinese tea house offers visitors an opportunity to relax in the beauty of the garden while sipping cups of green tea and a trip to the nearby Buddhist nunnery makes a perfect addition to an already peaceful afternoon.
Practical Info
The gardens are located in Diamond Hill, Kowloon in Hong Kong. It is open from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. daily. It is easily accessible via public transportation using the Diamond Hill station. Entry is free.
Address: 60 Fung Tak Rd, Hong Kong, China
Hours: Daily 7am-9pm
From $ 85
National Museum of China
The National Museum of China is the largest museum in the country, and one of the largest in the world. It features rotating exhibits exploring the history of China, from the Opium Wars and founding of the Communist Party, to the Sino-French and Sino-Japanese Wars. It also covers the Chinese Revolution of 1911, as well as the social unrest of 1989.
A history buff’s dream, the museum’s collection is vast, extending to a million items that range from replicas of a Peking man’s bones, to scientific instruments from the 18th and 19th centuries. It also feature many hundreds of decorative artefacts such as porcelain items, bronzes, pottery, lacquerware, textiles, and various artworks.
Located to the east of Tiananmen Square – a popular highlight on Beijing day tours – the National Museum of China is easily reached from most places in the city.
Insider’s Tip: While entrance into the museum is free, daily admittance is limited, so you may want to consider reserving a ticket online in advance. Security is extremely tight, so expect numerous security checkpoints and lots of time waiting in line – and don’t forget to take valid photo ID.
Practical Info
The National Museum of China sits to the east of Tiananmen Square, opposite the Great Hall of the People. Take Line 1 of the subway to Tiananmen East, or Line 2 to Qianmen.
Address: 16 East Chang'an Street, Beijing 100006, China
Hours: 9am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday
From $ 24
Jinli Ancient Street
Stretching for 1,148 feet (350 meters), just east of Wuhou Temple, Jinli Ancient Street is one of the oldest shopping streets in Chengdu, dating back to the Three Kingdoms period. Restored in 2004, this historical lane paved with green flagstone still teems with shops, restaurants, and food stalls in traditional architecture.
The Basics
Jinli Ancient Street is a great place to sample local snacks and delicacies, and to pick up souvenirs, especially locally made handicrafts. In addition to the numerous shopping and dining options, you’ll find a number of performances along the street, ranging from classic Sichuan opera and folk plays to shadow puppets, folk drama, and even traditional weddings.
With so many options available, you may find it helpful to go on a guided tour to help navigate the shops and recommend local delicacies to try, as well as to learn about the street’s long history. Day tours tend to include other top attractions such as Wuhou Temple and Qingyang Palace, and can even include a visit to see Chengdu’s famous giant pandas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jinli Ancient Street is a must-visit for foodies, shoppers, and history buffs.
- Sichuan opera performances are also held in some restaurants and teahouses on the street. These performances are free with the purchase of food or tea.
- Bring cash, as few vendors accept credit cards here.
How to Get There
Jinli Ancient Street is located just east of Wuhou Temple. Take bus number 1, 57, 82, 334, or 335 and get off at the Wuhou Ci (Wuhou Temple) stop.
When to Get There
Jinli Ancient Street’s shops and snack vendors tend to close around 10pm, while bars generally stay open later. At night the street is illuminated by traditional Chinese lanterns, which lend it a romantic atmosphere. Weekends are very busy, and the street is packed with locals and visitors alike.
Popular Gifts and Snacks
Among the many products sold on Jinli Street, popular items include lacquerware, old porcelain, Shu embroidery, clay figurines, paper cutouts, calligraphies, paintings, and folk handicrafts. Must-try street snacks and local specialties include dumplings, wontons, ma po tofu, fried sugar balls, and buckwheat noodle dishes.
Address: China
From $ 15