For first-time visitors to China, choosing where to go may feel like a difficult choice. Cities that represent Chinese culture and have good tourism infrastructure are recommended. We handpick seven best places for first-time visitors to plan your China tour, covering historical and cultural experiences, nature explorations, and modern urban landscapes.
1. Beijing – World Class Historical Sites and Modern Landmarks
The capital of China, Beijing is the best place to learn about Chinese history, culture and politics. The Great Wall is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Great Wall of China tours from Beijing is a must for your first-time trip. As the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, with 600 years of Ming and Qing royal history, the Forbidden City is the largest ancient palace complex in the world. Tiananmen Square is the largest city square in the world and is a political and historical symbol of China. In addition, the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven are est examples of royal gardens and buildings dedicated to heaven, respectively.
2. Xi’an – the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, home to the Terracotta Warriors
As the capital of 13 dynasties, Xi’an is one of the important birthplaces of Chinese civilization. The underground army of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, the Terracotta Warriors and Horses are the eighth wonder of the world. The Ancient City Wall of Xi’an is the most complete ancient city wall existing in China, suitable for walking or biking trip. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda are the most famous Buddhist relics of the Tang Dynasty. And at the Musilim Quarter, you can try all the Northwest Chinese snacks such as meat buns, mutton buns, and so on.
3. Shanghai: A Metropolis of Tradition
A must-visit sight on your Shanghai tour package, dozens of colonial-era European-style historic buildings on the Bund mingle with the incredible Lujiazui skyline. Yuyuan Garden and City God Temple are the best places to experience the traditional Chinese garden art and local food & snacks. Tianzifang and Wukang Road feature traditional Shanghai alleys and French Concession buildings.
4. Guilin and Yangshuo: Famous for its karst landscapes
Guilin is one of the best places to enjoy China’s nature. From Guilin to Yangshuo, take a Li River bamboo raft or a luxury cruise ship with picturesque landscapes along the way. Longji Terraces, one of the largest terraces in China, is a masterpiece of Zhuang and Yao farming culture. Riding or hiking along the banks of the Yulong River, you can enjoy the idyllic scenery and ancient villages, suitable for families with children. Don’t miss the local food such as tasting beer fish, Guilin rice noodles and so on.
5. Chengdu: Capital of Pandas and Cuisine
The Chengdu, China tour allows you get close to giant pandas, experience culinary delights, and learn about ancient Ba Shu culture. At Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Base, one of several panda bases in Sichuan, observe pandas gnawing on bamboo and climbing trees up close. Travel to Dujiangyan, a World Heritage Site, to visit the ancient miracle of water conservancy engineering. People’s Park, Kuan Narrow Alley and Jinli feature the traditional Western Sichuan residences, where locals drink tea and play mahjong. Hot pot, Mapo tofu and other must-try foods of the city’s Sichuan cuisine.
