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The Most Beautiful Places in China

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By Siobhan Blest


Few places on Earth rival the breathtaking beauty of China. Its appeal lies not only in the country’s dramatic landscapes, but in the seamless way nature, history, and culture intertwine. From misty mountains and tranquil rivers to ancient temples and extraordinary archaeological wonders, China’s scenery is as diverse as it is spectacular. And with 30 day visa-free travel announced for British Citizen passport holders, exploring this fascinating country has never been more enticing.

Here are some of the most beautiful places in China to inspire a journey you’ll never forget.

Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its surreal scenery. The park is home to thousands of towering sandstone pillars, some rising more than 200 metres above the forest floor. Often shrouded in mist and cloud, these dramatic rock formations feel almost otherworldly and famously inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar.


One of the most photographed landscapes in China, Zhangjiajie can be explored in a variety of ways. For sweeping panoramic views, scenic cable cars carry visitors high above the forest canopy, while the Bailong Elevator - one of the tallest outdoor glass elevators in the world - ascends a sheer cliff face. The breathtaking Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge adds another thrill, suspending visitors dramatically above the forested valley below. For those who prefer to stay grounded, the park also offers an extensive network of peaceful hiking trails winding through lush forests and river-carved canyons.


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Located in Hunan Province in central China, Zhangjiajie can be reached by rail or by domestic flight from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. Our Magical Mountains Of Zhangjiajie private tour offers an excellent way to tick of the areas highlights.


 

Zhangjiajie National forest park at Wulingyuan Hunan China

Lijiang

Lijiang is one of the country’s most enchanting historic towns, renowned for its remarkably preserved architecture, winding canals, and dramatic mountain setting. A stop along the ancient tea trading route and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang Old Town embodies centuries of Naxi culture, where cobbled streets, timber houses, and traditional courtyards create a timeless atmosphere.


At the heart of the town, narrow lanes weave past arched stone bridges and gently flowing waterways, while local cafés and artisan shops lend a lively, contemporary charm. Rising just beyond the old town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain dominates the skyline with its snow-capped peaks, offering a striking contrast to Lijiang’s historic streets. Nearby, Black Dragon Pool provides one of the region’s most iconic views, where still waters mirror the mountains, perfectly framed by elegant traditional pavilions.


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Nestled in southwestern China’s Yunnan Province, Lijiang is most easily reached by high-speed train from Kunming or by flight from most major Chinese cities. Due to Lijiang's appeal, we offer a range of private tours and group tours which visit this magical location.


 

Black Dragon Pool, Lijiang, China

The Great Wall of China at Jinshanling

The Jinshanling section of the Great Wall is among the most striking and atmospheric stretches of China’s iconic landmark. Built primarily during the Ming Dynasty, Jinshanling is renowned for its dramatic watchtowers, steep staircases, and untamed beauty. Remote and largely undeveloped, this area showcases the Wall at its most authentic, making it a favourite among photographers and hikers alike.


The moderately challenging trek to visit this section of the wall is unquestionably worthwhile, rewarding visitors with a powerful sense of connection to the past and sweeping views of rolling. As the Wall snakes across mist-covered mountains, some sections have been carefully restored while others remain in their original state, allowing the structure to feel less like a monument and more like an integral part of the landscape itself.


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Stretching across the rugged hills of Hebei Province, The Great Wall at Jinshanling can be accessed as a day trip from Beijing. Our Private Great Wall Day Tour – Jinshanling includes private transfers, entrance fees and lunch. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy the walk.


 

The Great Wall of China at Jinshanling

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Jiuzhaigou Valley, also known as Nine Villages Valley, is one of China’s most mesmerising natural landscapes. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the valley is famed for its protected wildlife and stunning scenery, with cascading waterfalls and forested peaks that mirror the colours of the seasons.


Jiuzhaigou’s most striking feature is its vividly coloured lakes, ranging from deep turquoise to brilliant emerald and sapphire blue. Fed by glacial meltwater and mineral-rich springs, the lakes are crystal-clear, offering exceptional visibility. Wooden walkways wind through the valley, allowing visitors to explore the landscape while preserving its fragile ecosystem. With its dreamlike colours and serene atmosphere, Jiuzhaigou Valley feels almost untouched, making it one of the most unforgettable and beautiful places in China.


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Jiuzhaigou Valley is hidden in the mountains of northern Sichuan Province, in southwest China. Due to its remoteness the valley is best enjoyed as a guided group tour extension departing from the giant panda capital, Chengdu.


 

Jiuzhaigou National Park in Autumn

Yangshuo

Surrounded by some of China’s most iconic landscapes, the small town of Yangshuo deserves a top spot on any China bucket list. With winding rivers, hidden caves, and lush greenery, the region offers a tranquil, picture-perfect setting that has inspired Chinese art and poetry for generations - and even appears on the 20 yuan note.


The regions undeniable highlight is the Li River, which visitors can explore by leisurely boat cruise, bamboo raft, or bicycle, each offering a unique perspective on the scenery. Traveling from the nearby transport hub of Guilin to Yangshuo along its waterways reveals quiet rural villages, emerald waters and dramatic karst peaks. Shaped by centuries of culture, history, and natural beauty, Yangshuo and the Li River remain one of China’s most beloved and breathtaking destinations.


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Nestled in the heart of China's Guangxi region, in Southern China, Yangshou is most easily reached by road, train or scenic river cruise from Guilin. A must-see destination, Yangshou is included in a number of our guided group tours or private touring itineraries.


 

Cormorant Fisherman, China

Whether you’re hoping to explore China on a sociable guided group tour or a private tour tailored to include any combination of these wonders, our expert travel consultants are the ideal people to talk to.


For more inspiration, take a look at our China Holidays pages.

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Written by Siobhan Blest

Siobhan is our Web Content Supervisor based in our Kensington head office.

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