Where to Go in China?
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Explore China's 9 Most Breathtaking Destinations, as Featured by National Geographic

1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Famous for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar, Zhangjiajie is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park’s dramatic landscapes and clear skies offer panoramic views, with hiking trails, glass walkways, and cable cars providing stunning perspectives.

2. Jiuzhaigou Valley

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jiuzhaigou in Sichuan is known for its multi-colored lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The crystal-clear waters reflect vibrant shades of turquoise, making it a photographer’s paradise.

3. Yellow Mountains (Huangshan)

One of China’s most iconic mountain ranges, Huangshan is renowned for its jagged granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and the sea of clouds that often surrounds the peaks. It’s a UNESCO-listed site and a favorite among nature lovers and artists.

4. Li River, Guilin

Famous for its dramatic karst mountain formations that rise from the river, the Li River is considered one of the most beautiful river landscapes in the world. A river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers an unforgettable experience through lush valleys and traditional villages.

5. Tibet’s Potala Palace

Perched on a hill in Lhasa, the Potala Palace is an architectural marvel and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. Surrounded by the high-altitude beauty of the Tibetan Plateau, this ancient palace complex offers sweeping views of the region.

6. Mount Everest (Tibet Side)

The northern base of Mount Everest in Tibet offers one of the most dramatic views of the world's highest peak. Adventurers and trekkers venture to the Everest Base Camp to stand at the foot of the mighty mountain, surrounded by the vast Tibetan wilderness.

7. The Great Wall of China

Spanning over 13,000 miles, The Great Wall is one of the world’s most remarkable architectural feats. The sections at Badaling and Mutianyu are among the best-preserved, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

8. Karim Plateau and the Kanas Lake

Located in the far northwest of China, the Kanas Lake in the Altai Mountains is known for its crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks. The Karamay plateau nearby features unique landscapes that are part of the region's rich indigenous culture.

9. Yangtze River and Three Gorges

The Yangtze River, China’s longest, flows through some of the country’s most beautiful and dramatic landscapes. The Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—are a must-see, with steep cliffs, ancient temples, and scenic beauty accessible by boat.

Explore China's 9 Most Breathtaking Destinations, as Featured by National Geographic

1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Famous for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar, Zhangjiajie is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park’s dramatic landscapes and clear skies offer panoramic views, with hiking trails, glass walkways, and cable cars providing stunning perspectives.

2. Jiuzhaigou Valley

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jiuzhaigou in Sichuan is known for its multi-colored lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. The crystal-clear waters reflect vibrant shades of turquoise, making it a photographer’s paradise.

3. Yellow Mountains (Huangshan)

One of China’s most iconic mountain ranges, Huangshan is renowned for its jagged granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and the sea of clouds that often surrounds the peaks. It’s a UNESCO-listed site and a favorite among nature lovers and artists.

4. Li River, Guilin

Famous for its dramatic karst mountain formations that rise from the river, the Li River is considered one of the most beautiful river landscapes in the world. A river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers an unforgettable experience through lush valleys and traditional villages.

5. Tibet’s Potala Palace

Perched on a hill in Lhasa, the Potala Palace is an architectural marvel and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. Surrounded by the high-altitude beauty of the Tibetan Plateau, this ancient palace complex offers sweeping views of the region.

6. Mount Everest (Tibet Side)

The northern base of Mount Everest in Tibet offers one of the most dramatic views of the world's highest peak. Adventurers and trekkers venture to the Everest Base Camp to stand at the foot of the mighty mountain, surrounded by the vast Tibetan wilderness.

7. The Great Wall of China

Spanning over 13,000 miles, The Great Wall is one of the world’s most remarkable architectural feats. The sections at Badaling and Mutianyu are among the best-preserved, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

8. Karim Plateau and the Kanas Lake

Located in the far northwest of China, the Kanas Lake in the Altai Mountains is known for its crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks. The Karamay plateau nearby features unique landscapes that are part of the region's rich indigenous culture.

9. Yangtze River and Three Gorges

The Yangtze River, China’s longest, flows through some of the country’s most beautiful and dramatic landscapes. The Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—are a must-see, with steep cliffs, ancient temples, and scenic beauty accessible by boat.