If you’re wondering what to do in China, you’re not alone. With its immense size, long history, and dazzling cultural diversity, China offers a seemingly endless list of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you discover some of the most iconic, authentic, and rewarding things to do in China.
Start With the Icons: Must-See Highlights
1. Walk the Great Wall of China
No trip to China is complete without walking along the Great Wall. Visit the restored sections like Mutianyu or Badaling for accessibility, or head to the wild, crumbling parts like Jiankou for a more rugged adventure. This architectural marvel stretches over 13,000 miles and offers breathtaking views, especially during spring and autumn when the weather is most pleasant.
2. Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing
Step back in time at the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palatial structure in the world. With nearly 1,000 preserved buildings and a fascinating imperial history spanning over five centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must for history buffs. Take your time to explore the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the beautiful imperial gardens.
3. See the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
Marvel at one of China’s most important archaeological discoveries: the Terracotta Army, a life-sized army built to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. The vast underground pits contain thousands of unique clay soldiers, horses, and chariots. A museum complex nearby helps contextualize the history and scale of this ancient wonder.
4. Take a Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
Sail through a landscape straight out of a traditional Chinese painting on a Li River Cruise. The journey from Guilin to Yangshuo is known for its surreal karst mountains, bamboo groves, and quaint fishing villages. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the iconic scenery featured on the 20 yuan banknote.
5. Visit the Giant Pandas in Chengdu
No visit to China is complete without meeting its most beloved residents: giant pandas. At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, you can observe pandas of all ages in a naturalistic habitat. Arrive early to catch them during feeding time, when they’re most active. The base also supports crucial conservation efforts.
Dive Into Nature: China’s Stunning Natural Wonders
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Famed for its towering sandstone pillars, mist-shrouded peaks, and thrilling glass skywalk, Zhangjiajie inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. Visitors can take a cable car or ride the world’s tallest outdoor elevator – the Bailong Elevator – for panoramic views.
- Jiuzhaigou Valley (Sichuan): Tucked in the mountains of northern Sichuan, this UNESCO-listed valley is filled with turquoise lakes, multi-level waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The park is also home to Tibetan villages and rich biodiversity. Autumn is the most photogenic season thanks to vivid foliage.
- Yellow Mountains (Huangshan): With their dramatic granite peaks, twisted pine trees, and mystical sea of clouds, the Yellow Mountains have inspired poets and painters for centuries. Enjoy scenic hikes, cable car rides, and traditional villages like Hongcun nearby.
- Longji Rice Terraces: These sweeping terraced hills in Guangxi Province have been cultivated for over 650 years. Walk along trails that connect minority villages such as Ping’an and Dazhai, where you can experience the customs of the Zhuang and Yao peoples.
Urban Adventures: Best City Experiences
- Shanghai: This cosmopolitan metropolis dazzles with its futuristic skyline seen from The Bund, historic neighborhoods like Tianzifang, and vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss the Shanghai Museum and a sunset view from the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building.
- Beijing: Beyond the Forbidden City and Great Wall, Beijing is rich in cultural gems like the Temple of Heaven, 798 Art District, and ancient hutongs. The city is also a food haven, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to street-side baozi.
- Chongqing: A booming megacity built on hills, Chongqing impresses with its dramatic geography, cable cars over the Yangtze River, and the unique experience of riding a monorail through buildings. It’s also a paradise for hotpot lovers.
- Hong Kong: A global hub with an unmistakable skyline, Hong Kong offers a mix of Cantonese culture, colonial heritage, and cutting-edge commerce. Visit Victoria Peak, enjoy street food in Mong Kok, and take a ferry across Victoria Harbour.
Foodie Experiences Not to Miss
- Eat Peking Duck in Beijing: This iconic dish features crispy skin, tender meat, and delicate pancakes served with hoisin sauce and scallions. Try it at the legendary Quanjude or Da Dong restaurants.
- Try spicy hotpot in Chongqing: Dive into a bubbling cauldron of numbing Sichuan peppercorns and fiery chili broth. You cook meats, tofu, and vegetables at your table in this flavorful communal feast.
- Snack on dumplings in Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter: Explore narrow alleys filled with sizzling street food stalls offering beef dumplings, biangbiang noodles, and pomegranate juice in a lively, multicultural setting.
- Experience Dim Sum in Guangzhou: The birthplace of dim sum, Guangzhou serves up an endless array of bite-sized delights like shrimp dumplings, BBQ pork buns, and steamed rice rolls. Visit a traditional teahouse for the full experience.
Festivals & Culture
- Spring Festival (Chinese New Year): The most important celebration in China, marked by firecrackers, dragon dances, red decorations, and family feasts. It usually falls in late January or February.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: Held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month (usually in September), this festival centers around moon-viewing and eating mooncakes with loved ones.
- Dragon Boat Festival: Occurring in June, this lively celebration honors the poet Qu Yuan with thrilling boat races and sticky rice dumplings called zongzi.
How to Explore China with Ease
Traveling across China’s vast landscape can be exhilarating—but also challenging without local support. High-speed trains, domestic flights, and local buses connect the country well, but navigation can be tough due to language barriers and limited rural infrastructure.
That’s where Next Level China steps in. We specialize in crafting personalized, end-to-end travel solutions for all types of travelers—whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family, or part of a group tour. From airport transfers to expert guides fluent in English and Chinese, we make your journey smooth, immersive, and unforgettable.
