As one of the world's oldest civilizations spanning over 5,000 years, China creates a unique landscape for travelers to experience. China offers incredible diversity, from the mega-cities of Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong to remote villages and natural wonders.

China's deep roots in tradition blend with modern ingenuity and innovation, providing you with all kinds of entertainment you want.

This China travel guide 2023 will help you to craft a perfect plan for your next trip to China.

When To Visit China?

The best times to visit China are typically spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is moderate. There are fewer tourists than in summer, and you can enjoy blooming flowers in spring and comfortable outdoor activities in the fall.

Summer (June-August) can be very hot and crowded, but it is a good time for northern destinations like Beijing.

Where To Go In China?

Beijing

As China's capital and one of the world's largest cities, Beijing offers a blend of history, culture, and modern life. A trip to Beijing is incomplete without visiting the Forbidden City, the enormous 15th-century palace complex home to China's emperors for 500 years.

Just outside the city, hike along the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China, the ancient fortification spanning thousands of miles. Tiananmen Square provides a glimpse of the past and present, from Mao Zedong proclaiming the People's Republic to the daily flag ceremonies.

The surrounding neighborhoods, like ancient Hutongs and modern Sanlitun, provide insight into local life in this vibrant metropolis.

Shanghai

Shanghai dazzles as China's gleaming financial and commercial hub. The city's futuristic skyline of towering skyscrapers juxtaposes Old Shanghai's historic architecture for an eye-catching sight.

Stroll along The Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront promenade, for vistas of the Pudong's skyscraper forest and the Huangpu River. Just behind The Bund lies Old Shanghai, where you can wander quaint alleys to Yu Garden's tranquil temples, ponds, and tea houses.

Scale the city's tallest skyscrapers, like the Shanghai Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center, for views from the top.

Cruise the Huangpu River at night to see the dazzling lights and soak up Shanghai's electric ambiance.

Xi'an

The ancient city of Xi'an offers a window into China's imperial past and legendary Silk Road history. Xi'an is most famous as the site of the Terracotta Army, the vast underground life-sized clay warrior figures buried with China's first emperor Qin Shi Huang. Dating over 2,200 years, it is one of the world's most astounding archaeological sights.

Xi'an's completely intact 14km Ming Dynasty era City Wall is equally impressive, enclosing traditional architecture and the vibrant Muslim Quarter. Try delicious lamb skewers, budget-friendly noodles, and Chinese Islamic cuisine here.

At last, make sure also to visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, ascend Xi'an's iconic Bell Tower, and see the ancient Small Wild Goose Pagoda.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong dazzles with its spectacular skyline framed by the iconic Victoria Harbour. Ride a historic peak tram to Victoria Peak for panoramic city views and harborside. Hong Kong also shines for shopping, as budget-friendly street markets offer countless temptations. Don't miss bargaining with locals at the Temple Street Night Market.

Make sure to sample the city’s vibrant food delicacies like dim sum, roasted goose, and egg tarts. Take a ferry ride to quiet Lamma Island's beaches to escape the urban excitement to quiet Lamma Island's beaches. You can hike up to the Giant Buddha on Lantau Island.

Yangshuo

Yangshuo, located amongst dramatic limestone karst peaks, is the only city that offers a scenic escape.

The area's best attraction is floating down the Li River while enjoying the misty peaks resembling giant brushstrokes on a canvas. It was declared the UNESCO world heritage site offering a priceless view. Upon arriving in Yangshuo, you can rent a bike and traverse the surrounding rural landscapes and villages.

Weave through lush rice paddies, cruise down the Yulong River on a bamboo raft, or walk to the Moon Hill crescent arch for epic views.

Natural Wonders

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

The pillar-like karst formations jutting into the clouds in Hunan Province’s Zhangjiajie National Forest Park inspired Avatar's surreal “floating mountain” world. You can take the Bailong elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, to breathtaking vistas of over 3,000 narrow sandstone pillars and dense forests below.

Walk the glass skywalks omni directionally suspended 4,000 feet above the valley, or ride a cable car for thrilling views. This park is the inspiration for the "Avatar" movie landscapes.

Li River

A serene boat ride down the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo offers some of China’s most spectacular scenery. Shrouded in mist, the landscapes look like traditional Chinese paintings coming to life.

Some of the most famous sights include Nine Horse Fresco Hill, whose curved shape resembles horses' heads drinking from the river, and Xingping, with its iconic scene of a cormorant fisherman, and the moon-shaped Twelve Peaks.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Jiuzhaigou Valley stretches across 72,000 acres of natural beauty in Sichuan Province. With its combination of 115 crystal blue and green lakes, thundering waterfalls, virgin forests, and snow-capped peaks, Jiuzhaigou seems like a magical realm.

The natural colors of the valley come from calcite deposits in the water. You can walk along wooden boardwalks and gaze at spectacular sights like the Nuorilang Waterfall cascading down a 300-foot slope.

Experiencing Chinese Culture

From hanging at teahouses and watching kung fu masters in action to stuffing your face with dumplings, there are many awesome ways to dive into traditional culture. Start by sipping some calming tea made step-by-step in an ancient ceremony, then feel the spiritual Zen at cliffside monasteries. Then, get your chill on at alt-medicine clinics to try time-honored therapies like acupuncture.

You can also become a part of them. When you spot crazy dragon parade costumes, glowing paper lanterns, and lion dancers at local festivals, jump right in!

Final Words

China offers endless highlights to discover, from stunning natural scenery to vibrant modern cities. It offers endless possibilities for memorable travel experiences. Use this China travel guide itinerary to plan your trip to the recommended places to make your adventure unforgettable.