An ancient country in Asia dating back to the Shang Era around 1600 BC, China is an ecologically pristine and fascinatingly diverse country. From overwhelming historical landmarks to highly modern skylines, this country has it all. Here are the 3 most popular destinations in China that we think are worth a visit at least once in a lifetime:
Shanghai
The most modern metropolis in China, Shanghai is home to some of the tallest modern architecture in the world. Visit the 6th highest tower in the world, known as the Oriental Pearl Radio and Television Tower which is located on the Bund across the Huangpu River. This massive 468-meter-high tower consists of 11 spherical structures and 3 floors for panoramic views of the city.
Explore the priceless relics of the ancient city at the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, and enjoy mysteries of the limitless galaxy in the Space Capsule with the ‘taikonaut’. This space-themed area is extraordinarily futuristic.
The Shanghai Disneyland Park in Pudong is the sixth and the newest Disney Park. The Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, and Tomorrowland are the six-themed lands in the park. Being very different from the other Disney Parks in the world, it distinctively reflects the Chinese culture. The experience at the Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure in the Treasure Cove land is something that must not be missed.
Shanghai is famous for its spectacular acrobatic show where you can see a variety of jaw-dropping feats performed by the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. The Magnolia Theatre and the Shanghai Circus World are some of the best theatres in the city to go watch the thrilling acrobatic show.
One of the best ways to go sightseeing in Shanghai is to take the Huangpu River Cruise. The splendid view of the skyscrapers along with the views of the Yangpu Bridge and Nanpu Bridge, and the Oriental Pearl Tower are simply breathtaking. You can see the staggering beauty of Shanghai’s skyline while on this cruise.
The High-Speed Train or the Shanghai Maglev is a magnetic-levitation train that travels to and from the Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road Metro Station in the city at the speed of 430 km/hr and the entire journey takes only eight minutes. This is one ride that one should not miss in Shanghai.
Don’t miss out on shopping in Nanjing Road that is Shanghai’s essential and historically renowned shopping market. You can also visit the ancient Zhujiajiao Water Town on the outskirts of Shanghai, with charming waterways and traditional Chinese houses.
Xi’an
Xi’an is the capital of the Shaanxi Province in the northwest of China and had been one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. Visit the famous archaeological museum of Terracotta Warriors that is a significant historical and cultural landmark of Xi’an. Covering an area of 14,000 square meters, you would find the ancient life-size clay sculptures of about 8000 soldiers, and 130 chariots with over 500 horses that are there to protect the glorious Emperor Qin Shi Huang of the Qin Dynasty in his afterlife.
Beijing
Beijing is China’s capital city and also, was one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. In this bustling city, you would find several important landmarks that reflect the past and present of Chinese culture.
With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Beijing is China’s most popular place of visit and its foremost tourist attraction is the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall was constructed during the rules of the Qin, Han, and Ming dynasties from the period of 221 BC to 1644 AD. Also one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the entire length of the wall is about 21, 196 km long. The Mutianyu section and the Badaling section are the most well-preserved parts of the Great Wall.
The Forbidden City is another heritage site in the central part of Beijing. This massive and ancient palace complex was home to 24 emperors from the Ming Dynasty and was built during the 15th century.
The Forbidden City reflects the best of ancient Chinese palace architecture and is divided into two parts. The Outer Court in the front was used for ceremonies such as Coronations, royal weddings, among other official purposes. The Inner Court in the back was where the Emperor resided and conducted the daily affairs of the state. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has now become the Palace Museum that houses ancient relics, paintings, and calligraphy. The Tiananmen Square or the ‘Gate of Heavenly Peace’ is right opposite the Forbidden City. This is one of the largest public squares in the world and was built in the 17th century.
Another important landmark in Beijing is the Olympic Park. After the Olympics in 2008, this park has become the cultural, sports and recreational center in Beijing