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China tour of the Great Wall, top China attraction

Best Things to Do in China

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

China

China is the world’s most populous nation, and has rapidly emerged as the powerhouse of Asia. It's the region’s largest economy, and a treasure-house of art and artifacts, temples and tombs, walls and cities stretching back 3,000 years. The attractions are many, the nation vast. Let Travelstride be your guide in selecting a trip through the dreamscape of China.

Top China Experiences

Standing face-to-face with thousands of life-sized, Terra Cotta Warrior statues excavated from the vast necropolis of China’s First Emperor in Xi’an

Taking a long walking tour of the Great Wall of China

Sailing down the Li River from Guilin through an incredible landscape of sheer cliffs and peaks, resembling a dreamy ink-brushed scroll

Exploring the Forbidden City

Reaching two fabled oases on the Silk Road: Urumqi (China’s Timbuktu) and Kashgar, site of one of Asia’s largest outdoor markets and camel bazaars

Experiencing the uniqueness of Beijing

Circumnavigating the entire city wall of Xi’an by bicycle, then exploring the city within

Cruising through the remains of the Three Gorges on the Yangtze River and visiting the huge hydroelectric dam that partially submerged them

Visit Apricot Valley, one of the most beautiful forests in the world

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Things to do in China - Expert’s guide

1. Great Wall of China

Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a fixture of Chinese heritage, and one of the most well known and most visited landmarks in China, as well as perhaps the world. Built in the 5th century BC, the Great Wall of China stretches over 5,000 miles, and there are several sections open to visitors.

One of the best benefits of visiting China on a tour is the opportunity to visit portions of the wall not open to the public, or simply lesser known sections where crowds will be minimal.

See all China tours that visit the Great Wall »

2. Forbidden City

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is one of China’s main tourist attractions - highly recognizable from hundreds of kung fu movies, the city has an aura of mystery. Built in the 15th century, the walled complex is a maze of passageways.

The most popular spot is of course the large courtyard in front of the main building - a crowded tourist area almost every day of the year. Visit on a tour of China to see it in depth and learn the sprawling history behind the city; a history that sees emperors, intrigue, and conquest.

See tours to China that also visit the Forbidden City »

3. Yangtze River Cruise

Yangtze River China

Along any Yangtze River cruise, you’ll encounter the incredible Three Gorges Dam. Sheer cliffs rise on either side as you pass through the engineering wonder that is the world’s largest hydroelectric dam project. Though a controversial undertaking when it was constructed, the Three Gorges is undeniable impressive.

Also along the Yangtze is Tiger Leaping Gorge - a very popular attraction in China for avid hikers. The mountain is not for the physically unfit - even experienced hikers have been known to find it extremely difficult. But the reward is worth it!

See all Yangtze River cruises »

4. Li River Cruise

Li River China

The Li River is short, traversing through the south of China, between Guilin and Yangshuo. Between these two cities, you’ll hit upon many wonderful attractions and landmarks - somewhat removed from the normal “must sees”, they give more of a sense of the “real” China through the eyes of history and natural landscapes. You’ll see stunning scenery everyday, and get a glimpse into rural, mountain life in China.

See all Li River cruises »

5. Terracotta Warriors

Terracotta Warriors

This fascination attraction is on many a tour itinerary in China. The archaeological discovery features an expansive army of small terra cotta warriors in block formations. Located in Xi’an, the Terracotta Army draws visitors from all over the world, eager to observe for themselves. Each warriors facial features are individual, a testament to the artistry of the day.

See all tours in China that visit the Terra Cotta Warriors »

6. Chengdu

Panda in Chengdu

If you’re a panda enthusiast visiting China, you absolutely have to visit the Chengdu Panda breeding and research facility. You’ll have the chance to observe pandas up close -- including the babies -- and learn about their care. The center will also educate you on their conservation efforts, and the best way you can help keep these beautiful creatures from extinction.

See all China tours that visit Chengdu »

7. Zhouzhuang

Zhouzhuang floating city China

Often termed “the Venice of the East” this is one of the most popular floating cities to visit in China. The picturesque region is notable for two twin bridges; photographers take note! A tour here will reveal an ancient way of life, and the spirit of China’s countryside will come through.

8. Mount Tai

Follow in the footsteps of emperors when you attempt this grueling climb. It was a rite of passage for 72 new emperors who traversed these 6000 steps over the centuries. The main temple of Mount Tai is located in the Shandong province. A landscape that is dotted with numerous temples and many other China historical attractions.

9. Summer Palace

Summer Palace China

A home for Chinese emperors, imperial leaders and their families for many years, the Summer Palace sits along the water in Beijing and was used as an escape from the heat. Constructed in 1750, it was rebuilt after being destroyed by French and British forces. Today visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, grounds, and take in a history tour about the building and its famous inhabitants.  

10. Leshan Great Buddha

Giant Buddha China

An enormous Buddha carved out of rock, this imposing sculpture is one of the largest of the Emeishan Buddhas along the Min River and Dadu River. Estimated to have been completed in the 8th century, the best way to see it is from the water, though you can walk to the base as well.

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China Tours Reviews & Ratings

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Andrew
·
2024-01-30
Written on
Discover Nepal by Explore!
Discover Nepal
This was a wonderful trip. Kiran deo Bhatt our guide was superb (and wonderful that he recognised me 15 years after my first Explore trip to India with him!) A great blend of culture, walking and nature. I thought that all of the accommodation was great. Really enjoyed the optional activities and highly recommend them. Do the white water rafting if you can! Out of 28 Explore trips this was definitely one of the best. Expect dusty bumpy roads but also a fascinating experience. Thanks Kiran and Explore for another great opportunity to travel with confidence. I loved every minute.
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Linda
·
2023-12-10
Written on
Delhi to Kathmandu by Explore!
Delhi to Kathmandu
All of Nepal was excellent, as was Jaipur, Agra, and all the rail journeys.
Dehli and Varanasi were interesting but challenging, but that’s more to do with my feelings about sanitation than anything Explore could influence. My two complaints are the hotel in Dehli was substandard and the Ganges river trip boring (although the camping was fun)
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Trusted Customer
·
2023-12-09
Written on
Discover Nepal by Explore!
Discover Nepal
Walking around Kathmandu with guide.
Dawn Lewis
·
2023-12-08
Written on
EF Educational Tours Company Reviews by EF Educational Tours
Meagan has been great!!
Meagan has been great at reaching out and explaining the process. I love the templates to email to parents and students to promote the trip.
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Nancy Bogdonanwicz
·
2023-12-08
Written on
EF Educational Tours Company Reviews by EF Educational Tours
I very much like the new structure and…
I very much like the new structure and how the team at EF is always available and is very prompt with replies to emails and text messages. This is sooooo much better than a year ago, when it took forever to get a reply or any information about my tour. Much Better, thank you!!!
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Daisy Cardenas
·
2023-12-08
Written on
EF Educational Tours Company Reviews by EF Educational Tours
10/10 Recommend
I've traveled with different companies before but EF is by far the BEST in handling logistics and itineraries. Their various support teams are incredibly helpful.

Our travel agent, Maaike, has exceeded all expectations as she has been helpful, communicative, and extremely organized. She is truly an asset to EF Tours.
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