Must Do in China: Top 10 Essential Experiences
If you are planning an unforgettable journey through China, designing your itinerary around the theme of “Must Do in China” is undoubtedly an efficient and practical approach. China is a vast land with a rich and profound cultural heritage. From ancient historical sites to modern metropolises, and from natural wonders to authentic culinary delights, every experience is worthy of a spot on your bucket list. Below, we have carefully curated a list of the top 10 “Must-Do” experiences in China for your consideration.
1. Ascending the Great Wall
The Great Wall is one of China’s most enduring symbols. Visiting China without seeing the Great Wall is akin to visiting France without seeing the Eiffel Tower; it rightfully claims the top spot on any list of “Must Do in China.” As an old Chinese adage goes: “He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true hero.” This colossal dragon, standing tall for over two millennia, winds across mountains and valleys with breathtaking grandeur. Walking along these ancient ramparts allows you to both gaze out over a magnificent landscape and feel the profound weight of history.
The Badaling section of the Great Wall offers convenient transportation and excellent facilities, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors. The Mutianyu section, with its lush vegetation and fewer crowds, offers a more tranquil and comfortable experience. Only by ascending the Great Wall can you truly step into the living history of China.
2. Visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing
The Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for China’s Ming and Qing dynasties. It also stands as the largest surviving complex of ancient wooden architecture in the world. If you have an interest in Chinese history, this is undoubtedly the ultimate destination. Here, crimson walls and golden-glazed tiles abound, with halls and pavilions rising layer upon layer; indeed, every single brick and tile holds a story.
Stroll along the central axis to visit key structures such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihedian) and the Palace of Heavenly Purity (Qianqinggong). Then, explore the Treasure Gallery and the Clock Gallery to experience the grandeur of ancient Chinese imperial splendor firsthand. As a quintessential cultural highlight—a true “must-do” experience in China—the Forbidden City not only satisfies one’s curiosity about history but also offers the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning travel photos imbued with classic Chinese aesthetics.
3. Visiting the Terracotta Army in Xi’an
Hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Terracotta Army stands as a breathtaking testament to the civilization of the Qin Dynasty. Thousands of terracotta warriors—each with a distinct appearance—stand in precise formation, forming a military array of imposing majesty. Viewing the site in person feels akin to traveling back in time to the era of the Great Qin Empire.
Pit 1 is the largest in scale and offers the most powerful visual impact, while Pits 2 and 3 provide a closer look at the intricate tactical arrangements of the various military units. Only by visiting Xi’an and seeing the Terracotta Army with your own eyes can you truly grasp the historical significance embodied by this quintessential “Must-Do in China.”
4. Boating on the Li River
The famous adage, “Guilin’s scenery is the finest under heaven,” stands as the ultimate tribute to the Li River. A masterpiece of China’s natural landscapes, the Li River offers a quintessential natural experience that is an absolute “must-do” for any visitor to China.
As you journey by boat from Guilin to Yangshuo, rolling karst peaks rise and fall along both banks, while the river waters remain as clear as a mirror. Gliding along the river feels akin to stepping directly into a flowing Chinese ink-wash painting. The Xingping section, in particular, is the very scene depicted on the reverse side of the 20-yuan banknote. The harmonious blending of mountains and water is a uniquely Chinese form of romance.
5. Exploring the Mystical Peaks of Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie’s quartz-sandstone peak forest is a sight of unique and spectacular grandeur. It also served as the inspiration for the “floating mountains” featured in the film Avatar. This destination stands out as one of the most magical stops on the “Must Do China” itinerary.
Thousands of stone peaks rise vertically from the earth; when shrouded in mist and clouds, the landscape transforms into a veritable fairyland. You can take the Bailong Elevator directly to the summit. Stroll along the suspended glass skywalk to experience the awe-inspiring artistry of nature amidst the towering mountains.
6. Strolling by Hangzhou’s West Lake
“Above is Heaven; below are Suzhou and Hangzhou.” West Lake stands as the quintessential embodiment of Eastern aesthetics. Here, the lake waters are as smooth and soft as silk; with every step, a new vista unfolds, offering beauty in every season. It represents the gentle, poetic side of the “must-do” experiences in China.
Spring Dawn on Su Causeway, Lingering Snow on Broken Bridge, and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon—every scene carries the sentiments of literati and poets. Rent a bicycle to cycle around the lake, or take a boat ride across its waters. Only by slowing down and watching the weeping willows brush the water and the pavilions dotting the landscape can one truly appreciate the charm of “paradise on earth.”
7. Visiting Giant Pandas in Chengdu
The giant panda is China’s national treasure and one of the most beloved creatures among travelers worldwide. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the ideal place to observe these pandas up close. If you visit early in the morning, you can even catch a glimpse of them lively feeding and playfully frolicking about.
8. Experiencing the Potala Palace in Lhasa
Standing at an altitude of 3,700 meters on the snowy plateau, the Potala Palace serves as the enduring symbol of Tibetan culture. It is also a sacred and awe-inspiring stop on any “Must Do in China” itinerary. Built against the mountainside, this majestic red-and-white palace houses a treasure trove of countless Buddha statues, scriptures, and precious artifacts.
Walking through the palace, accompanied by prayer wheels and chanting, one can feel a strong atmosphere of faith. The purity and solemnity of this high-altitude realm offer a unique spiritual resonance that adds a truly distinctive dimension to your journey.
9. Explore the Ancient Water Towns of Jiangnan
Wuzhen, Zhouzhuang, and other water towns in Jiangnan offer a blend of everyday life and poetic charm in Must Do in China. The awning boats glide among the small bridges, flowing water, white walls, and black tiles. As dusk falls and the lanterns begin to glow, the atmosphere becomes particularly gentle and enchanting.
Stroll along the old streets and sample authentic local delicacies, such as pastries and pickled vegetables. If you happen to encounter a light rain, you’ll better understand the romance of the misty rain in Jiangnan, China.
10. A Night Tour of the Shanghai Bund
The Bund serves as the iconic calling card of modern China. Flanked on one side by a century-old ensemble of European-style architecture and on the other by the soaring skyscrapers of Lujiazui, the district presents a striking contrast between the old and the new. As night falls and the lights come alive—illuminating the shimmering waters of the Huangpu River—the full splendor of the city’s prosperity unfolds before your eyes.
Strolling along the Bund, feeling the breeze drift in from the river, and soaking up Shanghai’s vibrant energy and cosmopolitan flair provides a distinctly modern finale to your “Must-Do in China” journey.
Conclusion
Every item on this “Must Do in China” list is drawn from the firsthand experiences of countless travelers. From the magnificent Great Wall to the adorable pandas, from the solemnity of the Forbidden City to the tranquility of the water towns, the beauty of China is hidden in its mountains and rivers and also in the warmth of human relationships in its streets and alleys. Travel need not be about trying to “see it all.” Find what moves you, and take your time to look at it carefully; that’s enough.
If you wish to transform this list into a real-life journey, we invite you to contact Tattle. Our professional team can handle everything from itinerary planning and ticket booking to local guides. Whether you are traveling with family, exploring with friends, or embarking on a solo adventure, we can craft a custom itinerary that is both classic and comfortable. Let us ensure your “Must Do China” journey is filled with fewer hassles and more delightful surprises.
