China things to see and do

One of China's great trading cities, Guangzhou combines centuries of Cantonese heritage with a striking modern skyline. The Chen Clan Ancestral Hall is richly decorated with carvings and ceramics, while Shamian Island preserves tree-lined streets and European-style buildings from the city's trading past. Across the Pearl River, the 600m (1,969ft) Canton Tower provides sweeping views over the city.

Turquoise lakes, waterfalls and forested mountains define Jiuzhaigou Valley in northern Sichuan Province. This UNESCO World Heritage Site lies on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau and is particularly striking in autumn, when colourful forests are reflected in its clear lakes. A network of boardwalks and shuttle buses connects the principal scenic areas while helping to protect the fragile landscape.

Few Chinese cities reveal as many layers of the country's history as Nanjing, which served as the national capital during several periods. The vast Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum lies beneath wooded Purple Mountain, while the surviving Ming city wall ranks among the world's longest ancient urban walls. The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall documents the city's darkest chapter during the Japanese occupation of 1937–38.

Lijiang's UNESCO-listed old town is a maze of canals, stone lanes and timber houses set beneath the mountains of northwest Yunnan. The city is closely associated with the Naxi people, whose distinctive cultural traditions remain an important part of the region's identity. North of Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge cuts dramatically between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain and offers one of China's best-known multi-day hiking routes.

Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and is famous for its relaxed pace of life and distinctive cuisine. It is also home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where visitors can see China's iconic animals. The city serves as a gateway to western China and nearby mountain regions.

Hangzhou is known for its natural beauty and historic sites, centred around West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lake is surrounded by gardens, temples and pagodas, creating a landscape that has inspired Chinese art and literature for centuries.

Huangshan (Yellow Mountains) Huangshan, in eastern China, is one of the country's most celebrated mountain landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its granite peaks, twisted pine trees and frequent sea of clouds, it has inspired Chinese art for centuries. Well-developed paths and cable cars make the area accessible while still offering dramatic scenery.

Lhasa, in the Tibet Autonomous Region, is one of the most culturally significant cities in China. The Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dominates the skyline and was once the residence of the Dalai Lama. The city is also home to monasteries and religious sites reflecting Tibetan Buddhism.

Pingyao is a remarkably well-preserved ancient town in Shanxi Province and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its city walls, traditional courtyard houses and narrow streets offer a glimpse into life during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Unlike larger cities, it retains a more intimate and historic atmosphere, making it one of the best places to experience traditional urban China.

Stretching thousands of kilometres across northern China, the Great Wall is one of the country's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sections near Beijing, such as Badaling and Mutianyu, are among the most visited, while more remote areas offer a quieter experience.

Xi'an was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and is one of China's historic capitals. Its most famous attraction is the Terracotta Army, a vast collection of life-sized statues buried with China's first emperor. The city also features ancient walls, pagodas and traditional neighbourhoods.