Journey Through the Wonders of China: A Traveller’s Guide

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you journey through the wonders of China, from ancient landmarks to modern marvels, ensuring smooth communication while discovering the country’s rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

China is a vast and diverse country that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From ancient monuments to modern cities, China offers a plethora of attractions that cater to all types of travellers. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, this guide will take you through the best places to visit in China, offering insider tips and practical information to make your journey unforgettable.

 

1. Beijing: Where Ancient Meets Modern

Beijing, China’s capital city, is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern architecture. Here are the top attractions in China you can’t miss in Beijing:

 

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall is an iconic symbol of China and a testament to the country’s rich history. The most popular sections to visit near Beijing are Badaling and Mutianyu, both offering stunning views and well-preserved watchtowers. Hiking along the wall provides a unique perspective on its grandeur and historical significance.

Section	Distance from Beijing	Hiking Time	Difficulty Level
Badaling	70 km	2-3 hours	Easy to Moderate
Mutianyu	90 km	2-3 hours	Moderate
Jinshanling	130 km	4-5 hours	Challenging

 

The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This sprawling complex covers 180 acres and consists of nearly 1,000 buildings. Visitors can explore the vast courtyards, halls, and gardens and view priceless artefacts that offer a glimpse into China’s imperial past.

• Admission: 60 RMB (April to October), 40 RMB (November to March)

• Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (April to October), 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (November to March)

• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and allocate at least 3-4 hours for your visit.

 

Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a magnificent complex where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would pray for good harvests. The architecture is a stunning example of traditional Chinese design, with the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests as the centrepiece. The surrounding park is a popular spot for locals to practice tai chi and other exercises.

• Admission: 15 RMB (park only), 35 RMB (park and temple complex)

• Opening Hours: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm (park), 8:00 am to 5:30 pm (temple complex)

• Tip: Visit early in the morning to see locals practising tai chi and other traditional activities.

 

2. Xi’an: Home of the Terracotta Warriors

Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, is famous for its historical significance and the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army. Here are the top tourist places to visit in Xi’an:

 

Terracotta Warriors

Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a collection of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots that were buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an incredible glimpse into ancient Chinese history and craftsmanship.

• Admission: 150 RMB (March to November), 120 RMB (December to February)

• Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

• Tip: Hire a knowledgeable guide to provide historical context and insights.

 

Xi’an City Wall

The Xi’an City Wall, dating back to the Ming dynasty, is one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Visitors can walk or bike along the top of the wall, which offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

• Admission: 54 RMB (walk), 45 RMB (bike rental)

• Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm (March to November), 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (December to February)

• Tip: Rent a bike for a unique and efficient way to explore the entire wall.

 

3. Shanghai: The Paris of the East

Shanghai, China’s largest city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning skyline, rich history, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Here are the top attractions to visit in Shanghai:

 

The Bund

The Bund is a famous waterfront area in central Shanghai that offers stunning views of the Pudong skyline. The promenade is lined with colonial-era buildings that showcase a mix of architectural styles, from Gothic to Art Deco. A stroll along the Bund is a must for any visitor to Shanghai.

• Tip: Visit at night to see the skyline illuminated and the buildings beautifully lit.

 

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai’s Old City. Dating back to the Ming dynasty, the garden features beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

• Admission: 40 RMB (April to June, September to November), 30 RMB (July to August, December to March)

• Opening Hours: 8:45 am to 4:15 pm

• Tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

 

Shanghai Tower

The Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, standing at 632 meters. The observation deck on the 118th floor offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Yangtze River Delta.

• Admission: 180 RMB

• Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 9:30 pm

• Tip: Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues and choose a clear day for the best views.

 

4. Guilin and Yangshuo: A Natural Paradise

Guilin and Yangshuo, located in the Guangxi Province, are renowned for their stunning karst landscapes and picturesque rivers. Here are the top places to visit in this beautiful place in China:

 

Li River Cruise

A cruise along the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo is a must-do activity in this region. The journey offers breathtaking views of the limestone mountains, lush greenery, and traditional villages along the riverbank. The scenery is often described as a living Chinese painting.

• Tip: Book a cruise that includes a stop at the 20 RMB note viewpoint for the best photo opportunities.

 

Yangshuo

Yangshuo is a charming town known for its laid-back atmosphere and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the countryside by bike, hike up to Moon Hill for panoramic views, or take a bamboo raft ride along the Yulong River.

• Tip: Attend the impressive Impression Liu Sanjie light show, which takes place on the Li River and features over 600 performers.

 

5. Chengdu: The Land of Pandas

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is famous for its spicy cuisine, laid-back lifestyle, and adorable giant pandas. Here are the top attractions in China to visit in Chengdu:

 

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

The Chengdu Panda Base is a must-visit for animal lovers. This conservation centre is home to over 80 giant pandas and offers visitors the opportunity to observe these cuddly creatures up close. You can also learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect this endangered species.

• Admission: 58 RMB

• Opening Hours: 7:30 am to 6:00 pm

• Tip: Visit in the morning when the pandas are most active and feeding.

 

Wenshu Monastery

Wenshu Monastery is a Buddhist temple dating back to the Tang dynasty. The complex features beautiful gardens, ancient sculptures, and a vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.

• Admission: Free

• Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

• Tip: Try the monastery’s famous vegetarian dumplings, and don’t miss the unique Sichuan-style tea ceremony.

 

Practical Tips for Your China Trip

Getting Around

China has an extensive network of high-speed trains that connect major cities, making it easy and efficient to travel between destinations. Within cities, the metro systems are modern, affordable, and easy to navigate. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are also widely available.

 

Accommodation

China offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. In major cities, you’ll find international hotel chains as well as local options. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional Chinese courtyard hotel or a boutique hostel.

 

Language

While Mandarin is the official language in China, many people in the tourism industry speak some English, especially in major cities. However, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin, such as “hello” (ni hao) and “thank you” (xie xie).

 

Stay Connected in China with Airtel’s Prepaid International Roaming Plans

 

To stay connected during your trip, consider purchasing a local SIM card or using an international roaming plan. Airtel’s Prepaid international roaming plans offer affordable data and calling options, ensuring you can stay in touch with loved ones, access maps, and make online reservations on the go.

 

China is a beautiful place that offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. From the Great Wall to the Terracotta Warriors, the top attractions and tourist places in China will leave you in awe of the country’s rich history and natural beauty. With this guide and a sense of adventure, you’re ready to embark on a journey through the wonders of China.