15 Best Cities in China to Visit

China’s mosaic of cities is a testament to its sprawling population and the vastness of cultures that unfold within its borders. Each metropolis is a gateway to the distinct cultures, traditions, and lifestyles that define the rhythms of daily life in this great nation.

Stepping into the urban centers of China, you become part of a world where ancient palaces stand in harmony with sprawling gardens, inviting you to witness age-old temples and monuments that have captivated travelers for centuries.

Among these wonders, the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army rise as emblematic beacons of a civilization rich in history and splendor.

Best Cities to Visit in China

1. Chengde

Explore the tranquil beauty of Chengde, a city woven into China’s imperial tapestry. Here, you can walk the Qing Dynasty’s summer retreat grounds, absorbing the serenity of classical gardens and lakes.

The Mountain Resort is a testament to architectural grandeur, while the Eight Outer Temples stand as a resplendent complex that beckons with its spiritual and aesthetic allure.

Each step through this city unveils scenes crafted by emperors of old, inviting you to tread a path through living history.

2. Dali

Nestled against the magnificent backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains, Dali beckons with its serene charm. The ancient city, with its cobbled streets, historic city gates, and picturesque setting, is a delight to explore on foot.

Attractions in Dali:

• Old Town: Tranquility meets history as you meander through Dali’s Old Town.
• Cangshan Mountains: Satisfy your craving for nature with trails like the Cloud Traveller’s Path, leading up to an exhilarating elevation of 2,500 meters.

Embrace the scenic escapades and the age-old allure seamlessly woven into the fabric of Dali, a city that harmoniously bridges the ancient with the natural world.

3. Kashgar

Your journey along the storied Silk Road leads you to the westernmost doorstep of China—Kashgar. This historic city is more akin to Middle Eastern landscapes than the sprawling metropolis of Beijing.

Travelers must traverse an expansive desert to reach this secluded gem that thrives on its centuries-old legacy as a vibrant commercial hub.

As you stroll through the alleyways of the Old Town, Uyghur architectural marvels surround you, and the air buzzes with the eclectic energy of local bazaars.

Your palate is in for a treat with an array of delectable regional flavors, a testament to Kashgar’s diverse gastronomic heritage.

Interesting Spots:

• Explore the labyrinthine Old Town
• Experience the depth of culture at Id Kah Mosque

Religion remains integral to the city’s character, with the Id Kah Mosque being a bold emblem of its predominant Muslim identity.

On Sundays, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant pulse at the renowned market. Here, a confluence of Central Asian traders breathes life into the scene, offering you commodities and a slice of regional dynamism.

See Related: Things to Do in Weinan, China

4. Nanjing

Nestled along the mighty Yangtze River, Nanjing welcomes you with a serene ambiance. Its streets, awash with greenery, speak to a quality of life that rivals its bustling metropolitan neighbors.

Once the heart of Chinese emperors, Nanjing’s history is as grand as it is understated.

Embark on a journey down the Qin Huai River, where the Confucius Temple and the monumental Gate of China emerge along the banks, their stories etched in the flowing waters.

Amid verdant landscapes, tombs and mausoleums beckon the history enthusiasts, each stone narrating tales of past dynasties. Though shadowed by Beijing and Shanghai, Nanjing’s historical canvas is a treasure trove waiting for your discovery.

5. Harbin

In the chill of China’s far north, Harbin awaits with its wintry embrace. Your visit isn’t complete without witnessing the Ice Festival, a two-month spectacle starting in December, where majestically lit ice sculptures transform the city into a frozen gallery.

Beyond the ice, Harbin’s Russian heritage infuses the streets, from cultural to architectural wonders like the St. Sophia Cathedral.

This structure is a testament to the city’s unique personality, blending East and West. Wrap up warm to explore, as Harbin’s frigid temperatures are as much a part of the experience as the sights themselves.

6. Suzhou

Suzhou, a gem nestled close to Shanghai, is esteemed for its elegant gardens and quintessential water-side architecture. As you stroll along its scenic canals, you’ll discover a network of quaint footbridges and inviting lanterns that add a glow to the stone pathways.

Bask in the tranquility of the Humble Administrator’s Garden, which stands as a testament to Suzhou’s storied past—a once-thriving hub of the Wu Kingdom.

With its impressive lineage dating back to the Silk Road era, the city continues to capture the imagination with its legendary silk crafts, steeped in the rich cultural fabric of the Yangtze River Delta.

Surviving the march of modernity, Suzhou has adeptly conserved its enchanting historical character, offering a glimpse into the harmonious fusion of its ancient charm and contemporary vibrancy.

Whether you’re drawn to its romantic canals, which transport you to a bygone era, or its bustling markets, which echo centuries of trade, Suzhou stands out as a pinnacle of Chinese heritage and serenity.

7. Kunming

Stepping foot in Kunming, Yunnan Province’s vibrant heart, you find yourself enveloped in mild weather, flourishing with year-round blooms—earning it the nickname City of Eternal Spring.

Your journey must include the Yuantong Temple, dating to the 8th century. This sanctuary is where stone etchings offer tales in silence.

Don’t miss the chance to reflect amidst the pastoral vistas at Tanhua Temple, a site growing in fame for its tranquil scenery. Both temples serve as gateways to the past, inviting you to wander through time amid their serene surroundings.

8. Hangzhou

With West Lake at its heart, Hangzhou is captivated by a serene expanse, inviting you to traverse its calm waters by boat. Discover islands boasting unique qualities on these excursions against a backdrop of misty mountains.

Scattered like gems around the lake are various temples and pagodas. Their stunning silhouettes are framed by the shimmering lake, offering views that are simply picturesque.

Among them is the famed Lingyin Temple, a cornerstone of Hangzhou’s allure nestled in majestic, natural splendor. When you visit, the essence of tranquility around these sacred spaces is palpable, contrasting with the urban vibrancy of Hangzhou.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Changzhou, China

9. Guilin

As you meander down the Li River, the enchanting karst terrain envelops you in its mystique, with mist-cloaked pinnacles evoking an ancient ink-wash painting coming to life.

In Yangshuo, a heart-stopping expanse hidden in the verdure, caves, and secret grottoes beckons the intrepid explorer.

• Li River Cruise: A tranquil sojourn among towering limestone formations.
• Yangshuo’s Secrets: Caves and grottoes nestled in lush greenery.
• Moon and Sun Pagoda: A sublime vantage point offering expansive views.

Guilin’s ethereal beauty mirrors nature’s poetry—a city where each view is a masterpiece.

10. Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a testament to over two millennia of history, rooted in its pivotal role along the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Exploring China’s third-largest city will reveal an intricate mosaic of old and new.

• Ancient Wonders: Venture through tucked-away locales harboring some of China’s oldest religious sites. For inner tranquility, the serene Liurong Temple beckons.
• Huaisheng Mosque: Dating back to 627 AD, this mosque is a hallmark of architectural fusion and cultural reverence.
• Cultural Kaleidoscope: Amidst the rush and hum of urban life, Guangzhou’s diverse cultural influences converge, offering a glimpse into a bustling cosmopolis.
• Dining Galore: Food connoisseurs rejoice; Guangzhou boasts the highest number of eateries per person, promising a feast for your senses.
• Nighttime Splendor: As dusk falls, embark on a river cruise. The city skyline, a canopy of lights, unfurls along the Pearl River—a memory to cherish.

In Guangzhou, every corner tells a story, inviting you to discover the symphony of experiences that animate this vibrant metropolis.

11. Lhasa

Lhasa is nestled within the majestic Himalayan mountains, representing Tibet’s spiritual heart. Your journey here leads you to the Potala Palace, an architectural marvel that once housed Tibet’s leaders. The sight of its grandiose structure against the mountainous backdrop is nothing short of stunning.

A visit to Jokhang Temple introduces you to the venerated ancient Buddha statue, a treasured symbol of the region. Lhasa offers a rare glimpse into the profound depths of Tibetan culture, distinct from the rest of China.

12. Xi’an

As you traverse the city of Xi’an, the sense of history is palpable. The Terracotta Army, with its life-sized statues, offers a silent testament to ancient artistry and imperial might.

While absorbing the sight of these spectacular warriors, consider how they have watched over the tomb of China’s first emperor for millennia.

Essential Historical Sites:

• Terracotta Warriors and Horses: A remarkable exhibit of funerary art that is as captivating as it is significant.
• Ancient City Walls: Once a protective barrier for the heart of the Ming Dynasty, these walls now symbolize Xi’an’s storied past.

Xi’an served as China’s epicenter for over a millennium, hosting seventy-three emperors and the cradle of thirteen dynasties. Despite rapid modernization, the city still retains markers that speak to its ancient splendor.

In every corner, remnants of a civilization that has profoundly shaped the country’s culture await your discovery.

13. Shanghai

Shanghai is China’s most populous urban area, its skyline a tapestry of high-rise buildings, among which you can spot a wealth of Art Deco designs.

The city’s rapid modernization has created a stunning visual dynamic—a juxtaposition against the classic European-style architecture of the Bund, set against the shores of the Huangpu River.

Key Attractions:

• The Bund: Fondly known as the ‘museum of buildings,’ it’s a homage to the city’s historic European influences. Stroll along the promenade, where the past and present of Shanghai coalesce.
• Yuyuan Gardens: Venture to the Old Town to discover these traditional gardens, offering a serene escape enveloped by period walls.

Savvy Tip: When deciding on accommodation, consider proximity to Shanghai’s diverse neighborhoods, optimizing your stay.

Shanghai is not just an economic hub—it’s a cultural enclave brimming with shopping venues that cater to every fancy. As you traverse this grand city, sample its many flavors, uncover old and new stories, and immerse yourself in the energy of its streets.

14. Hong Kong

Victoria Bay is a stunning front to the city’s iconic skyline, while forest-clad mountains provide an impressive backdrop.

Ascend Victoria Peak for a panoramic view that captures the essence of this vibrant metropolis, or sail its waters for an up-close glance at the towering structures.

• Top Viewpoints:
  • Victoria Peak
  • Harbour cruises

Hong Kong’s blend of diverse cultures gives it a unique flavor that beckons explorers.

• Cultural Tapestry:
  • Multicultural society
  • Lively markets

If shopping is your pursuit, the local markets are treasure troves awaiting discovery. For a retreat to nature, Lantau Island is a mere stone’s throw away, offering serene landscapes that contrast with the city’s bustle.

• Nature Escapes:
  • Lantau Island

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Anqing, China

15. Beijing

As you navigate through Beijing’s vibrant streets, the city unfurls like a historical scroll, revealing layers of heritage and modernity. At the heart of this metropolis, you’ll find sprawling Tiananmen Square, flanked by impressive constructs, with the ornate Forbidden City standing as a testament to imperial grandeur.

The city’s rich tapestry includes:

• Tiananmen Square: A massive public space surrounded by architectural marvels.
• Forbidden City: A historic palace complex that captivated past emperors.

A journey through Beijing is incomplete without exploring its culinary landscape. Venture into the alleyways and sample local gastronomy that tantalizes your taste buds.

Attractions Worth Your Time:

• Museums: Over 100 venues capturing art, history, and science.
• Cultural Sites: A blend of palaces, temples, and archaeological wonders amidst rising urban structures.
• The Great Wall: A breathtaking engineering marvel, less than an hour’s drive, snaking across rural topographies.

Beijing is a city that assures an encounter with the essence of Chinese civilization, juxtaposed with the pulse of contemporary life.