Written by Veronica |
China is a large country with a diverse range of cultures and landscapes. If you’re planning on visiting China for the first time, it might be difficult to choose your destinations. Here we’ve put together a list of the 7 most famous cities in China to visit for your reference.
Some you might have heard of for their international fame, ancient history, and brilliant culture. Others might be less familiar to you but are certainly worth your attention. Go on a China city tour to experience the rich culture and beautiful landscape of the country.
1. Beijing (Peking): The Imperial Capital
Location: Northern China
Beijing is the most famous city in China. It is the capital city with over 3000 years of history. It has been the political, economic, and cultural center of China for the past hundreds of years. It is the main gateway city and the most popular travel destination of China where you’ll see some of the most famous historical landmarks of the country.
Aside from the many architectural marvels, you can experience the traditional Beijing lifestyle in hutong alleys. Walking past the local stalls and vendors, try the most authentic cooking and world-famous Beijing cuisines like the Peking Duck. Afterwards, feel the city’s cultural charm by watching a Peking Opera.
Top Beijing Attractions
The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic structures in the world. You can visit different sections of it just outside the city. The walls were built upon the mountains originally (over 2,000 years ago) to defend the country from invasions. In total, it stretches on for 13,000 miles. It is now a popular sight-seeing and hiking destination.
The Forbidden City is the most magnificent of imperial architecture. The palace housed Chinese emperors and their courts during Ming and Qing Dynasties. Walk down the alleys and courtyards to be transported back in time to China’s imperial past. Today, it is also known as the Palace Museum with the most comprehensive collection of artifacts from ancient China.
✔ Recommended Beijing Tours:
2. Shanghai: The Modern Metropolis
Location: Southeast China, on the east coast
Shanghai is the largest city in China with a population of 24.87 million (2023). It is the greatest example of China’s economic and cultural progress, as the largest commercial and financial center and an important international port city in the western Pacific. Shanghai is an essential stop on your China tour.
The most iconic image of this major city is the futuristic skyline in Pudong. You can board a Huangpu River Cruise to see it up close. If you’re interested in arts and history, Shanghai has many museums and exhibitions showcasing all kinds of stuff from ancient historical artifacts to contemporary artworks.
During the day, make sure you try Shanghai’s famous street snacks and classic dishes like Pan Fried Pork Bun and Sweet and Sour Spareribs. At night, the nightlife in Shanghai is one of the best in the world, with clubs, bars, and live music of all types.
Top Shanghai Attractions
The Bund is an iconic walkway along the Huangpu River. Across the river, you can see the Oriental pearl tower, Jinmao tower, and other famous skyscrapers. To the west, there are many historical buildings of old Shanghai, a total of 33 in different styles. The area was once a financial and foreign trade center. It is the perfect spot for an evening walk to see the skyline and experience the historical charm of Shanghai.
Shanghai is more than a bustling metropolis. One of its most famous attractions, Yu Garden, shows a different side of the city. It is a renowned classical garden built during Ming Dynasty more than 450 years ago. Admire classical Chinese architecture and walk about the serene garden.
✔ Recommended Shanghai Tours:
3. Xi’an: Home of the Terracotta Army
Location: Shaanxi Province, Northwestern China
Along with Beijing and Shanghai, another one of the most famous cities in China is the ancient capital Xi’an. It was the starting point of the Silk Road. It became known across the world for the uncovering of the Terracotta Army, regarded by many as the 8th World Wonder.
As the first capital of China, of Qin Dynasty, Xi’an is a great place to learn about Chinese history. Many historical structures have been preserved across the city. There’re a wide range of cultural activities such as Shadow Puppet show, Chinese calligraphy, and Qinqiang Opera. The local food of Xi’an is also famous across the whole country. Find the most authentic flavors in the Muslim Quarter.
Top Xi’an Attractions
The Terracotta Army is an archaeological wonder that comprises thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Each soldier is unique with distinct facial features. It is a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of the time. The army was created to guard the emperor’s tomb in the afterlife.
The Ancient City Wall in Xi’an the largest-scaled, best-preserved, and most complete ancient city wall in China. You can rent a bike to cycle along the massive fortifications and experience its historical significance. Other landmarks include the iconic Bell Tower and Drum Tower and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
✔ Recommended Xi’an Tours:
4. Hong Kong: A Fusion of Cultures
Location: Southern coast of China
Hong Kong is also one of the most famous cities in China as an international metropolis. It’s been popular amongst travelers not just for its convenient transportation, but for its unique cultural landscape as well. On a Hong Kong tour, you’ll discover the most pleasant fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, of modern-day advancements and traditions.
In the bustling streets of Central and Kowloon, you’ll find towering skyscrapers, world-class malls, and a wide range of global cuisines. At the same time, there’re street food stalls selling delicious local snacks around street corners. Vibrant Hong Kong markets pop up across the city with traditional handicrafts, vintage goods, and clothes.
At night, head to the stunning Victoria Harbour to see the city light up above the shimmering water. You’re also in the right place for the best night life in Asia. Lan Kwai Fong is the place to go. Aside from all of those, Hong Kong has charming countryside, islands, historic temples, and plenty of coastlines and beaches.
Top Things to Do in Hong Kong
Victoria Peak stands as the highest point of Hong Kong. It’s where you’ll enjoy the best view of the island and the surrounding sea. You can ride the famous Victoria Peak Tram, an iconic service that has been in operation since 1888, take a hike, and enjoy the sunset at one of the restaurants or cafes.
Hong Kong, before it became a financial hub, used to rely on its fishing industry. These fishing villages still exist alongside the skyscrapers of the city. The most notable ones are Tai O Fishing Village and Aberdeen Fishing Village. Take some time to experience the city’s past and traditions.
✔ Recommended Hong Kong Tours:
5. Chengdu: Home of the Giant Pandas
Location: Sichuan province, Southwest China
With rich natural resources, Chengdu has the reputation of being the “Land of Abundance.” It is a historical city with a history of more than 3,000 years. Today, it is a famous city in China for being the home of the giant pandas. Don’t forget to try Sichuan cuisine when you travel to China, which is known for its unique spices.
Top Chengdu Attractions
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is dedicated to the conservation of these endangered animals. You can see giant pandas in their natural habitat, learn more about them and the efforts made to preserve their habitats. You may even volunteer for the research center on your Chengdu panda tour.
Leshan Giant Buddha is the tallest stone carved seated Buddha in the world at 71 meters (233 feet). Seated amongst the mountains, this giant statue is a breathtaking sight to see.
✔ Recommended Chengdu Tours:
6. Guilin: Stunning Karst Landform
Location: Guangxi, South China
Perhaps the most famous city in China for its breathtaking natural landscapes, Guilin is a hilly and mountainous region with typical karst landform. Limestones form a unique landscape where thousands of pinnacles stand towering on the sides of a river winding its way across the city. There’s a saying in China that goes “the mountains and rivers in Guilin are the best in the world.”
Top Guilin Attractions
Li River is the largest and most beautiful karst landscape tourism spot in the world. See the stunning landscape at the main scenic spots, including one river (Li River), two caves (Reed Flute Cave and Seven-Star Park), and three mountains (Solitary Beauty Peak, Fubo Hill and Piled Silk Hill).
✔ Recommended Guilin Tours:
7. Lhasa: The Roof of the World
Location: Tibet, Southwest China
In the heart of Tibet, Lhasa, is known as the Roof of the World. This famous city in China is best known for its rich Buddhist heritage and being home to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. You will also experience local Tibetan culture, festivals, and cuisines.
Top Lhasa Attractions
Potala Palace is the highest ancient palace in the world. It is a sacred destination for Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. It houses a wealth of Tibetan Buddhist treasures: Tibetan sculptures, Buddha statues and murals, religious antiques, etc.
Barkhor Street outside Jokhang Temple is where you’ll find authentic Tibetan architecture and busy local markets. It’s the most vibrant cultural street in Tibet.
✔ Recommended Tibet Tours:
