5 Best Things to See in China
1. The Great Wall of China
No trip to China is complete without a visit to the Great Wall, one of the most iconic structures in the world. Stretching over 13,000 miles across northern China, the Great Wall was originally built to protect Chinese states from invasions and raids by nomadic tribes. Walking along the Great Wall offers not only a journey through history but also spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you visit the popular sections near Beijing, like Badaling and Mutianyu, or explore the more remote and rugged parts of the wall, such as Jinshanling or Simatai, the experience is awe-inspiring.
The Great Wall is more than just a defensive fortification; it is a symbol of China's enduring strength and perseverance. As you walk along the wall, you can see the watchtowers and battlements that were used by ancient soldiers to guard the empire. The sheer scale and length of the wall are a testament to the incredible engineering feats achieved by ancient Chinese civilization.
2. The Terracotta Army
Located in Xi'an, the Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. This massive collection of life-sized clay soldiers was buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, over 2,000 years ago. The army was created to protect the emperor in the afterlife, and each soldier is unique, with different facial expressions, hairstyles, and armor.
The site consists of three main pits, with Pit 1 being the largest and most impressive, containing thousands of warriors, horses, and chariots. Visiting the Terracotta Army offers a fascinating insight into ancient Chinese funerary practices and the power of the emperor. The museum also features exhibitions of bronze weapons, chariots, and other artifacts that were discovered alongside the army.
3. The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City in Beijing is the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. Serving as the political and ceremonial center of China for nearly 500 years, from the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, the Forbidden City is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture. With nearly 1,000 buildings and over 9,000 rooms, the complex is a vast maze of courtyards, halls, and gardens.
A visit to the Forbidden City allows you to explore the opulent palaces where emperors once lived and ruled. The intricate details of the architecture, from the golden rooftops to the ornate carvings and vibrant colors, reflect the grandeur and wealth of the Chinese emperors. The Palace Museum within the Forbidden City houses an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the imperial family.
4. The Li River and Guilin’s Karst Mountains
The Li River, flowing through the city of Guilin in southern China, is famous for its stunning karst mountain landscape. The dramatic peaks, which rise sharply from the river, have inspired countless artists and poets throughout Chinese history. Taking a boat cruise along the Li River is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of this region.
As you glide along the river, you’ll see picturesque scenes of fishermen on bamboo rafts, water buffalo grazing by the riverbanks, and traditional villages nestled among the hills. The most famous section of the Li River is between Guilin and Yangshuo, where the scenery is particularly breathtaking. The karst formations, often shrouded in mist, create a surreal and magical atmosphere.
5. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in the Hunan Province, is renowned for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." The park is part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers some of the most extraordinary landscapes in China.
The most famous area within the park is the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, where you can find the "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain," which served as the inspiration for the film. The park also features the world’s longest and highest glass bridge, the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, offering thrilling views of the canyon below. Hiking through the park allows you to immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes, with lush forests, deep canyons, and tranquil streams.
Conclusion
China’s vast and varied landscape offers a wealth of incredible sights, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. Whether you’re exploring ancient wonders like the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army, marveling at the architectural grandeur of the Forbidden City, or losing yourself in the natural beauty of Guilin and Zhangjiajie, China has something to offer every traveler. These five destinations provide just a glimpse of the many treasures that await visitors in this remarkable country.
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