The Best of China: 8 Iconic Sights Every Traveler Should See

It is a land filled with history, captivating landscapes and dynamic cities, China is very captivating to people who would love to get to know the country. This vast nation has something extraordinary to offer from ancient architectural and natural wonders. Whether you’re an adventure seeking out to traverse on towering mountains, or a history aficionado seeking the Imperial palaces, China will give you a taste that’s anything but mediocre. The only problem here however is that before you set out on your trip, you must ensure that you have the correct travel documents in place. If you are living in the UAE, you must first apply for a China Visa from UAE in order to enjoy an unforgettable journey.

China has many sights that are either modern marvels or have a timeless heritage that are both iconic for the world. Or walk along the legendary Great Wall, admire the mystery of the Terracotta Army, soak in the nature’s beauty of Guilin’s Li River or see the Long Corridor in the Caves of Yu… It is no less than a cultural arcade which offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and adventure with bustling metropolises such as Shanghai or the serenity of Tibet’s Potala Palace. Here, we have taken a deeper look of the 8 must visit attractions that every traveler must add on the bucket list.

Here are the 8 Iconic Sights Every Traveler Should See in China

1. The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is one of the world’s most impressive man-made structures extending for over 21,000 kilometers of mountain, desert, and plain views. One of the best preserved sections that visitors can walk along the ancient stones and admire its architectural grandeur as well as the rich history of China is Mutianyu and Badaling.

2. The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, located in Beijing, was the imperial palace of China’s emperors and their courts for almost 500 years. Among others, it has been classified as UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture boasting huge courtyards, intricate halls and centuries-old treasures. Across its grand gates, walking feels like it transports you into bygone times of imperial splendour.

3. The Terracotta Army

An amazing archaeological discovery are the Terracotta Army of Xi’an where thousands of life size terracotta soldiers, horses and chariots were placed there to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s tomb. The artistry and military strength of ancient China is shown in each figure. History lovers must visit this UNESCO listed site to get a glimpse of China’s fascinating past.

4. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Great for wandering the natural wilds, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is world famous for its towering sandstone pillars that gave rise to the floating mountains in Avatar. Lush green forests, such thrilling walk on world’s longest glass bridge and breathtaking panoramic views to explore. It is a paradise for adventurers and photographers alike, as its surreal beauty.

5. The Li River and Guilin

Guilin is famous for its Li River, famous for its stunning karst mountain scenery, serene waters as well as picturesque fishing villages. Cruise the river and escape from the busy life of the outside city and travel glide with nature’s beauty around the dramatic limestone ridges. The landscape at sunrise or sunset looks like a traditional Chinese painting come to life.

6. The Bund, Shanghai

The Bund in Shanghai is a fantastic waterfront promenade which mixes beautifully colonial era architecture with modern skyline. Day visitors can gaze at historic buildings, whilst others are illuminated and the skyscrapers, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, are a dazzling sight by night. A scenic walk, it’s a perfect place to see Shanghai’s past and future.

7. The Potala Palace, Tibet

The Potala Palace is an iconic symbol and standing majestically on the Red Hill in the Lhasa, the Potala Palace is a symbol and unique to Tibetan culture and spirituality. Stuck in the industrial mill of Chinese hegemony, this palatial city sought once by the Dalai Lama still maintains golden rooftops, intricate murals and sacred relics. A visit to this place is not only for breathtaking views of the Himalayas but also a deep insight into Tibet’s rich heritage and Buddhist traditions.

8. West Lake, Hangzhou

The scenic beauty of West Lake in Hangzhou includes it all: lush gardens, ancient pagodas, willow lined walkways. The tranquil waters of its waters abound with picturesque scenery, which has inspired countless Chinese poets and artists for centuries. You cannot escape from the enchanting lake’s landscapes either in spring blossoms or in autumn foliage. It is a place to relax and to inspire.

Conclusion: 

China is a country of huge diversity, from history to nature to modern marvels. No matter it is the awe inspiring Great Wall, the ancient wonders of the Forbidden City, or Zhangjiajie, the natural beauty or the serene charm of West Lake, every location has its own story to tell. Visiting China will allow you to fill your eyes with both otherworldly grandiose and vibrant busy cityscapes, the spiritual majesty of Tibet’s Potala Palace or whatever suits your fantasy.

To have a pleasant travel experience, you need to get the right document as so. Applying for a China Visa from Abu Dhabi is a crucial step if you are travelling from UAE. Your visa in hand, you will be able to explore China’s most iconic destinations as well as China’s history. This means that you are ready for a once in a lifetime trip and for beautiful memories in this wonderful country!