Vast, diverse, and full of history China is a country like no other. Whether you’re looking for ancient wonders, futuristic skylines, or stunning natural landscapes, this guide highlights the best places to visit in China, and how to enjoy the journey with reliable connectivity.
Beijing: A walk through imperial history
As China’s capital, Beijing offers an unmatched look at the country’s imperial past and political present.
Must-see landmarks:
- The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu or Badaling sections)
- The Forbidden City, once home to 24 emperors
- Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public spaces
- The Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming architecture
Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the calm.
Shanghai: The skyline of the future
Shanghai is China’s most cosmopolitan city, where historic charm meets bold modernity.
Top attractions:
- The Bund, with panoramic views of Pudong’s skyscrapers
- Yu Garden, an oasis of classical Chinese design
- Nanjing Road, one of the busiest shopping streets in Asia
- The futuristic Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest building in the world
It’s a city made for urban explorers and culture lovers alike.
Xi’an: The cradle of Chinese civilization
Once the eastern end of the Silk Road, Xi’an is a must-visit for history buffs.
Don’t miss:
- The Terracotta Army, guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang
- The Ancient City Wall, still walkable today
- The Muslim Quarter, perfect for street food
- Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a key Buddhist site
Guilin & Yangshuo: Nature at its most poetic
Known for their dramatic karst mountain landscapes, Guilin and Yangshuo are favorites among photographers and nature lovers.
Top experiences:
- A Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo
- Bike or scooter rides through rice fields and limestone peaks
- Reed Flute Cave, a natural wonder with colorful lighting
- Traditional villages like Xingping
Chengdu: Pandas and peaceful pace
If you’re looking to slow things down, head to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province.
What to do:
- Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
- Try authentic Sichuan hotpot
- Enjoy tea culture in one of the city’s many parks
- Explore Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street
Chengdu is all about relaxation, food, and adorable wildlife.
Zhangjiajie: Avatar’s real-life inspiration
This national park in Hunan province is famous for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the film Avatar.
Highlights:
- Take the glass elevator up the cliffs
- Walk across the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
- Explore the trails of Wulingyuan Scenic Area
- Ride the world’s longest cable car to Tianmen Mountain
Hangzhou & Suzhou: Classical beauty and canals
Located in eastern China, Hangzhou and Suzhou are known for their poetic scenery and historic gardens.
What to explore:
- West Lake in Hangzhou; best at sunset
- Lingyin Temple, nestled in forested hills
- Suzhou’s Classical Gardens, UNESCO World Heritage sites
- The Grand Canal, one of the world’s oldest
These cities offer a peaceful, elegant contrast to urban giants.
Staying connected while traveling in China
Exploring such a vast country requires smart connectivity. With the Orange Travel eSIM China, you can:
- Access mobile data instantly upon arrival
- Enjoy calls, SMS, and internet without roaming fees
- Skip the hassle of physical SIM cards
- Stay connected whether you’re on the Great Wall or in a bamboo forest
For a smooth experience, check out:
