Best Nature Destinations in China: A Reverse Journey into the Heart of Wilderness

The conclusion you'll reach after exploring China's nature is this: there are too many hidden gems to count, too much to marvel at, and you'll wish you had more time. But let’s start from the last, most undiscovered locations, where few tourists venture.

10. Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake, the largest saltwater lake in China, is a surreal and remote location that offers crystal clear waters surrounded by distant mountain ranges. The lake sits at an altitude of 3,200 meters, creating a breathtaking highland environment. It’s especially spectacular during the summer when rapeseed flowers bloom around its shores, painting the landscape in bright yellow. The migration of various bird species, particularly bar-headed geese, adds an enchanting layer to the experience. For those in search of isolation and a deep connection with nature, Qinghai Lake is unmatched.

9. Jiuzhaigou Valley

Often hailed as a fairyland on Earth, Jiuzhaigou's vibrant autumn colors, emerald lakes, and impressive waterfalls make it a dreamscape for nature lovers. The valley is particularly famous for its multi-colored lakes, formed by the calcification of water over the centuries. At over 2,000 meters above sea level, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a pristine wilderness that reflects the diversity of China's natural beauty.

8. Tiger Leaping Gorge

Carved out by the mighty Jinsha River, a tributary of the Yangtze, Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The trekking route along this gorge is one of China’s most famous trails, offering a mixture of adrenaline-pumping paths, serene landscapes, and panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. At certain points along the hike, you can feel the raw power of the river as it rushes through narrow rock walls. For the adventurous, this is a natural wonder you cannot miss.

7. Mount Huangshan

Known for its "sea of clouds," ancient pine trees, and rugged granite peaks, Mount Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) has inspired generations of Chinese poets and painters. Its dramatic vistas are a mainstay in Chinese art, and visiting the mountain gives you a deep sense of cultural connection. Whether you're hiking its steep paths or riding the cable car to the summit, the views at dawn or dusk, as the clouds roll in, are absolutely otherworldly.

6. The Karst Mountains of Guilin

Often described as "heaven on Earth," Guilin’s karst mountains create a landscape straight out of a traditional Chinese ink painting. Limestone peaks rise dramatically from the ground, flanking the tranquil Li River. The beauty here is so revered that it's depicted on China's 20-yuan banknote. Take a bamboo raft ride along the Li River to experience the peaceful scenery, or explore nearby Reed Flute Cave, where natural limestone formations are lit with neon lights for an ethereal feel.

5. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie is where nature meets the imagination. The park is famous for its towering sandstone pillars, which are often shrouded in mist, giving them a floating appearance. These otherworldly formations inspired the "floating mountains" in James Cameron’s film Avatar. For the brave-hearted, a walk on the world’s longest and highest glass bridge offers an exhilarating perspective of the park’s landscape far below.

4. Shilin Stone Forest

Located in Yunnan Province, the Stone Forest is an expansive area of karst formations that jut into the sky, resembling petrified trees. This UNESCO World Heritage site is both a geological wonder and a cultural symbol for the local Sani people, who have legends explaining the formation of the stones. Walking through the narrow passageways between towering rock formations is like stepping into another world.

3. Tibet's Namtso Lake

At an elevation of over 4,700 meters, Namtso is one of the highest lakes in the world, known for its bright turquoise waters and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. It holds spiritual significance for Tibetans, and a visit to the lake offers a glimpse into Tibetan culture and the raw, untouched beauty of this region. The reflection of the sky and mountains in the water gives an impression of infinity, making Namtso one of the most visually striking locations in China.

2. Hulunbuir Grasslands

The Hulunbuir Grasslands in Inner Mongolia are some of the most extensive and well-preserved grasslands in the world. This is the land of blue skies, rolling green plains, and nomadic herders. In the summer, the grasslands turn into a lush paradise where you can experience the traditional Mongolian lifestyle, complete with yurt stays, horseback riding, and endless horizons. It’s the ultimate destination for those seeking solitude and a sense of boundless freedom.

1. The Rainbow Mountains of Zhangye Danxia

Finally, at the top of our list is the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, home to the Rainbow Mountains. These mountains, with their streaks of red, yellow, and orange, look like an oil painting brought to life. The colorful bands are the result of mineral deposits over millions of years. Visiting the Rainbow Mountains during sunrise or sunset intensifies the already vivid colors, creating a spectacle that will leave you in awe. It’s a surreal landscape that seems almost too beautiful to be real.

Final Thoughts: China's natural wonders are as diverse as they are breathtaking. Whether you're exploring the remote highlands, hiking through gorges, or standing in awe of ancient mountains, the country offers endless opportunities to connect with the natural world. Each destination on this list is a testament to the country's incredible natural beauty.