A vast and hugely varied country, China has some incredible sights, whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning explorer. Join us as we reveal our top must-see destinations and unforgettable experiences in China.
It would take you about 17 months to walk the entire length of the Great Wall of China – at 21,196km, it’s roughly 1.5 times the distance between Singapore and Los Angeles! But you can walk as much or as little of it as you like, over a few hours or several days, experiencing both the evocative old parts and newer portions. One of the most popular sections, ideal for a day hike, is Jiankou to Mutianyu.
The world’s largest, best-preserved royal garden is actually a vast complex of landscaped gardens, palaces, lakes, and hills. Once known as the 'Versailles of the East’, it’s now a public park where you can wander amidst Jesuit-designed palaces and scores of Chinese, Tibetan, and Mongolian-style buildings. Among the highlights are the Eternal Spring Garden, the Great Fountain, and the remnants of the Haiyantang Reservoir.
Located close to Xi’an, capital of Shaanxi Province in central China, one of the country’s most iconic sights is this collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, first emperor of China. The thousands of life-size, hand-moulded figures were buried with him in 210–209 BCE to protect him in the afterlife.
Set in China’s Sichuan province, this network of valleys has several focal points: Nuorilang waterfall in the Shuzheng Valley, the Zharu Monastery, and the Rize Valley with its mountains clad by ancient forests. Best of all, perhaps, is the multicoloured Five Flower Lake in its shades of sapphire, emerald, jade, pale turquoise, and amber yellow, believed by locals to be a holy site.
‘Big Buddha’ is indeed one of the world’s largest seated Buddha statues, made up of just over 200 bronze pieces and ensconced on a three-storey platform on Hong Kong’s Lantau Island. Completed in 1993 as an extension of the Po Lin Monastery, it’s accessed via 268 stone steps, or there’s vehicle access via a small road for disabled visitors.
Also known as Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu (East Zhongshan 1st Road), this landmark stretch of waterfront – a symbol of Shanghai for hundreds of years – is where Western-style banks and trading houses were built after foreign powers entered the city after the 1842 Opium War. It’s a great place to amble, especially at night, with views of Huang Pu River and the city’s epic skyline.
This former Portuguese territory across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong has been nicknamed the ‘Las Vegas of Asia’ for its giant casinos, shopping malls, and landmarks such as the Macau Tower with its fabulous city views. A fascinating cocktail of cultural influences, it includes more than 20 impressive buildings in the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre.
The opportunity to spot new and exciting wildlife plays a big part in people’s decision-making when it comes to choosing their next adventure. With these tips, you can ensure it doesn’t come at the detriment of the animals you’ve come to visit.
Travel is one of the most meaningful ways to connect with the world, and these magnificent lodges can help you do just that amongst some of the world’s most arresting scenery. What’s more, these lodges are all actively contributing to the preservation of the landscapes you’ve travelled to enjoy. These aren’t just places to stay, they’re destinations that inspire, whether through their endemic wildlife or unique cultural practices. From the rugged coastlines of South Africa to the serene valleys of Bhutan, here are six exceptional eco-lodges to add to your ‘must-visit’ list.
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