China is a huge country with never-ending possibilities, sights and attractions – what fascinates me about this place is the diversity and mixture of old and new, past and future – and how they all seem to blend in with each other and be a part of everyday life of the people.
There are so many things to see, but the only problem with traveling around China is the distance between all the must-see places.
The best way to see a lot in a short time is probably to take a few China tours, so you can spend more time at the attractions than getting to them - I can’t wait to explore China, and these are the reasons why…
Wonders Of The World
China’s long history has left behind some amazing works of art, culture and architecture.
From the army of 8000 Terracotta warriors to the 1000 year old Leshan Buddha – the largest Buddha statue in the world, there are many world famous wonders in China.
However, the number one wonder to see is of course the Great Wall of China.
This 2000 year old wall that stretches over 5000 km across the country, is one of the most popular attractions in China.
I would like to take Great Wall of China tours to the more remote sections of the wall, and maybe stay overnight nearby to see the golden color of the wall at dawn.
Another fascinating place I would love to explore is Mount Wudang with its temples, palaces and bridges, and Nathan wants to go there for its world famous martial arts – both Tai Chi and Wudang Kung Fu were first practiced on this mountain.
Ancient Cities
China has the third largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites (after Italy and Spain), and due to its long history there are many ancient beautiful cities and temples.
The Forbidden City is one of the ancient cities that interests me the most.
The city got its name from being off-limits to the world for 500 years, it wasn’t until the 20th century that the public was allowed in.
Perhaps because of this, the city has the best preserved ancient buildings in China, and is home to the largest ancient palace in the world.
Enchanting Landscape & Wildlife
While China’s cities seem crazy and fun to visit, it’s the landscape and nature on the country side that attracts me the most to this country.
Ancient rivers and lakes, sacred mountains and limestone hills, the diverse nature that has inspired artists and poets or centuries would be a beautiful sight.
Aside from the tranquil nature, China also has one of the greatest diversity of wildlife in the world, including the Giant Panda, South China tiger, golden-haired monkey, white flag dolphin among many others.
I would love to visit the Chengdu Research base of Giant Panda Breeding, to see – and maybe even hold, a panda.
Great Shopping
Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong are often referred to as shopping meccas of the world.
From huge street markets and gigantic shopping malls, to tiny boutiques and corner shops, along with massive sale seasons – these cities are made for serious shoppers.
I get the feeling that the shopping malls that amazed me in Kuala Lumpur would be nothing compared to the ones in Hong Kong, where some have over 700 stores..!
Have you been to China? If so, what was your best experience?
I have been twice to China.
Take lots of imodium and antibiotics, always watch your back, and try to see the Great Wall.
Thanks for the tips, I’ll remember to prepare with antibiotics before I visit.
Don’t wish — Go! We visited a few weeks ago and found the country and its people to be amazing. Its the most eye-opening experience to date. Also, mind-blowing, to stand on the Great Wall (the scale is incomprehensive) knowing that it was begun in the 5th c. BC.
That sounds amazing, I can only imagine what it must be like to walk on the wall!
When my husband and I first started researching China for our upcoming RTW trip, we pretty much just thought about Beijing and Shanghai as the major places to hit… but the more we read, the more we realized, like you, that China is so much more than those two places. We’re hoping to make it to Chengdu to see the pandas, and I’m really looking forward to explore the natural beauty that is the Sichuan province. Right now we’re thinking we want to spend 2 months exploring, but I know even that will just allow us to scratch the surface!
Two months sounds great, plenty of time to explore. The Sichuan province seems amazing, as does the neighboring Yunnan province.
Since we will be in northern Thailand for a while we’re tempted to head over there for a bit as well..!
China is a MUST for anybody that plans a RTW trip or an Asia visit. Even for the Great Wall itself. Of course, there are plenty more things to see over there!
thanks for the comment, yes we also feel we must visit – it seems like such an amazing and diverse country to explore
These sounds like great reasons for visiting China. I’m very interested for the same reasons and am looking forward to reading about your adventures in China!
I hope we get to visit soon, I’ve heard so many things about this country and I’d love to experience it for myself!
Dui (yes in Chinese)! China is AWESOME!!!
Haha I take your word for it Andi! I’d really like to get an insight into their ancient medicine too, it seems really fascinating.
Loved my time in China…hope to be back soon…
thats great to hear – we are looking forward to visiting later this year
Oh I love pandas. They are so nice. When I see them I just want to hug them
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that look SOOOOO cute don’t they – I would love to cuddle up close to one!
Chengdu is awesome! When you guys do go, you should definately check out Emei Shan (it’s one of four sacred Buddhist mountains in China). Making it to the summit to watch the sunrise over the clouds was quite simply incredible and was one of our favourite moments whilst travelling.
Hey Morgan – thanks so much for the tip & comment – it really sounds amazing!
China is a wonderful country! I’ve been living here for almost two years now and I love the place! You should really do the trek through the Tiger Leaping Gorge, it’s awesome!