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The first-time visitor to China is faced with a huge range of
choices and, however many days they have available, these can never be
sufficient. This article comments upon the most popular destinations in
order to suggest a core itinerary and direct further planning.The Big Three
Those with only a short time available usually opt to make a triangle in the north-east corner and take in the key highlights.
Beijing
Undoubtedly, the capital is the number one attraction in China for so many visitors. It has a wealth of tourist attractions including many that are world-famous. There are almost certainly also sites for those with a special interest - but these need not concern us for this article. Beijing warrants at least 3 nights and, being tucked away up north, works well as the starting point for a trip.
Shanghai
Although not an ancient city, visitors flock here to see another side of China. This is cutting-edge stuff with a huge array of contemporary architecture, making for one of the most recognisable skylines in the world. 2 nights here is usually enough, unless visiting further afield.
Shanghai is also a good base for visits inland. Many opt for a day trip to a water-town; a significant few head further, to Huang Shan (Yellow Mountain) to see the remarkable peaks and UNESCO-listed villages nearby.
Xi'an
The main attraction for any visit to this, the ancient capital of China, has to be the Underground Army, otherwise known as the Terracotta Warriors. These are actually located outside of the city and therefore more easily visited as part of a tour package, though a visit by public transport is possible.
Xi'an also has an interesting city centre with the restored old city walls aiding orientation and adding an interesting perspective. Outside of the walls visitors often head to the Wild Goose Pagoda and the nearby Provincial Museum. Inside the Walls they will find the Grand Mosque, a wooden structure with more than a hint of Chinese architectural influence, in the Muslim Quarter - a place renowned for cheap souvenirs.
Most visitors stay only 2 nights in Xi'an, and some less than that if their onward travel plans permit.
Scenic China
Those with more time often appreciate some balance to their itinerary with some time outside of the big cities. The cities named below are good gateways for scenic options.
Chengdu
This, the provincial capital of Sichuan, is located close to the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. As such there are a number of scenic mountain areas within easy reach. Given that it is also one of the best places to see Giant Pandas and you'll see why it features on many itineraries.
The pick of the options from Chengdu read as follows:
- Jiuzhaigou: a national park with some of the finest lake and water scenery anywhere;
- Mount Emei: a mountain sacred to Buddhists offering excellent hikes as well as accommodation right up to the summit; and
- Tibet: Chengdu airport has the most flight connections with Lhasa and is therefore a regular stopover for those wanting to visit that mysterious land. Be aware that special permits are required for all foreign visitors and regulations change frequently.
This small city is famous throughout China for its karst mountain peaks. Many visitors now opt to stay in nearby Yangshuo for a more rural experience. This can hardly be said to be quieter as this small town sees huge numbers of domestic visitors, although it does has the facilities to cope.
Many visitors also like to include a side trip to the rice terraces at Longsheng.
Kunming
The provincial capital of Yunnan is also a vital transport hub for this remote corner of China. There are a vast number of adventure options here, with the bulk of tourists focusing on Dali and Lijiang.
The Choice Is Yours
These destinations are listed not as a definitive "Must sees" but more as a starting point for your own research. You should do some more checking to see what is available and then think whether these are sites that suit you. Feel free to drop any of these and certainly look for other less-well-known destinations so as to make your trip that bit more special.
In the end of the day, the more effort you put into the research the more you will appreciate your visit to China - and the more likely you are to return time and again.
Enjoy your travels.
Ian Ford has lived in China for over 10 years. He is the owner and manager of China Journeys,
a specialist UK tour operator offering travel in China with added
interest (Registered in England and Wales No. 07014791, ATOL 10236)
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