Choose from 356 Fun Things to Do in China
ShowingFilter 301-320 of 356 listings.
Xian City Wall (Chengqiang)
Xi'an has one of the most extensive and best-preserved defensive walls in the world. This colossal structure was started under the Ming Dynasty in 1370, a few years before the Drum and Bell Towers. The wall comprises 98 ramparts, each with its own sentry house, as well as 18 gateways, of which the most impressive is the South Gate.
The Basics
To get an idea of the Xi'an City Wall’s extraordinary thickness, you have to climb up onto the wide terrace that surmounts it to take in the views on either side. It’s possible to walk the entire 8.5-mile (14-kilometer) length on foot or hop on a bicycle to speed up the circuit.
Just about every Xi'an tour includes a stop at the wall, along with other Xi'an attractions, such as the Terracotta Warriors, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum, and Muslim Quarter, depending on the option chosen.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Xi'an City Wall is a must-visit for all active travelers, photographers, and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to circumnavigate the walls on foot or by bike.
- Buy a single-admission ticket to the wall or save with a combo ticket to the Forest of Stone Steles Museum.
- Getting to the top of the wall involves climbing stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Xi'an City Wall surrounds the rectangular city center. It’s possible to climb the walls from one of eight different gate towers, though many visitors choose the South Gate near the Bell Tower. To get there, take the Xi'an Metro (Line 2) to Yongningmen Station.
When to Get There
The wall is open daily throughout the year, but hours vary from gate to gate. The best weather for enjoying the wall is in spring (March to May) or fall (September to October). During the summer, plan to arrive early to take in the views before it gets too hot.
Xi'an City Wall by the Numbers
The Xi'an City Wall was built during the Tang Dynasty to defend the ancient capital against foreign invaders. A deep moat surrounds the structure, which at its base measures 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters) thick. It stands 40 feet (12 meters) tall, and the 98 ramparts each had its own sentry building, allowing soldiers to protect the entire length of the wall without having to expose themselves.
Address: China
From $ 18
XiaoYushan Park (Little Fish Hill)
XiaoYushan Park, also known as Little Fish Hill, was built between 1983 and 1985 as the first classical Chinese-style park in the city. The park’s position about 200 feet (60 meters) above the surrounding city makes it a wonderful scenic viewpoint, where visitors can gaze down on Zhanqiao Pier, Little Qingdao Island, No. 1 Bathing Beach and Badaguan Scenic Area.
At the heart of XiaoYushan Park sits an elegant three-story, octagonal Chinese pavilion, called the Lanchao (Watching Tide) Pavilion. A spiral staircase leads to viewing platforms on both the second and third floors. Two smaller pavilions afford views of Huiquan Bay and the surrounding maplewood forest.
Practical Info
Plan to visit XiaoYushan Park early in your trip to get a visual overview of the sites and attractions you’ll be visiting later on.
Address: No. 24 Fushan Slip Road, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
Hours: Daily 7:30am-5:30pm
Admission: 10 Yuan
From $ 180
Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park
Covered by lush tropical evergreen rainforest, Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park protects a huge swath of coastal land, home to more than 130 plant and 190 animal species. A popular place to commune with Mother Nature for the day, the park is also home to one of the biggest trail networks in Hainan Province. A small pagoda at the top of the highest peak affords superb views of Hainan Island.
While hiking is a popular option, it’s not the only way to navigate the park. A tourist bus shuttles visitors between scenic spots (included in the entrance fee), and there’s also a rope bridge and a zip line where visitors can catch a glimpse of the forest from the canopy level. Between activities, it’s possible to lie down on a tranquil beach, dine at a mountaintop restaurant or even go for a swim in a clifftop pool.
Practical Info
If you only plan to hike, the cost of the tourist bus can be deducted from your admission ticket.
Address: Yalong Bay National Resort, Sanya, Southern China, China
Hours: 8am-5:30pm
Admission: 170 RMB
From $ 101
Window of the World
Window of the World is a theme park located in the city of Shenzhen featuring around 130 replicas of the most famous landmarks on the planet, allowing visitors to travel around the world in just one day.
The park is made up of eight main sections: Square of the World, International Street, Asia Region, Europe Region, Africa Region, Americas Region, Oceania Region, and Garden of World Sculptures. In Asia, explore the Mahamuni Pagoda of Mandalay and Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, before moving on to India’s iconic Taj Mahal and the famous Mount Fuji of Japan.
The Eiffel Tower, Ancient Athens, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Tower of London are among the European landmarks on show. Visitors can even take a gondola along the canals of Venice and marvel at a replica of Switzerland’s mighty Matterhorn mountain. Elsewhere, the Pyramids and the Sphinx lay in wait, and after traveling through traditional African hamlets, guests might just find themselves outside Australia’s Sydney Opera House.
America is covered from the east to the west coast, from Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon, to the Statue of Liberty and towering skyscrapers of Manhattan. The ‘Flying Over America’ attraction is a 3D cinema where thrillseekers will enjoy hanging in the air while images of America play out on the big screen, giving the impression of flying over the continent. There’s also an indoor ski world, train ride, log flume, bobsled ride, archery, and a roller coaster within the park.
Practical Info
Window of the World has a station located directly in front of the park, with Line 1 and Line 2 of the Shenzhen Metro stopping there.
Address: 9037 Shennan Road, Shenzhen 518053, China
Hours: 9am-10pm
Admission: Adult: CNY 180; Junior (Under 1.5 meters): CNY 90; Child (Under 1.2 meters): Free
From $ 103
Wong Tai Sin Temple
When in the midst of the modernity and commercialism of Hong Kong, it’s easy to forget all about the rich cultural and religious heritage of the city. Wong Tai Sin Temple, a Taoist temple commemorating the fourth-century monk by the same name, exemplifies traditional Chinese architecture and is a great place to experience Hong Kong’s more traditional side.
Devotees of Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian faiths come here to pray for good fortune, as the temple makes all wishes come true according to local folklore. On busier days, you’ll see dozens of fortune tellers setting up shop to offer their services to visiting worshippers. The structures of the temple follow the principles of feng shui, with buildings to represent each of the five elements.
A visit to the Wong Tai Sin Temple will give you a good idea of what a living, functioning Chinese temple looks like, and the landscaped gardens in the rear of the complex make for a tranquil escape from the otherwise very busy Kowloon.
Devotees of Taoist, Buddhist and Confucian faiths come here to pray for good fortune, as the temple makes all wishes come true according to local folklore. On busier days, you’ll see dozens of fortune tellers setting up shop to offer their services to visiting worshippers. The structures of the temple follow the principles of feng shui, with buildings to represent each of the five elements.
A visit to the Wong Tai Sin Temple will give you a good idea of what a living, functioning Chinese temple looks like, and the landscaped gardens in the rear of the complex make for a tranquil escape from the otherwise very busy Kowloon.
Address: Wong Tai Sin Rd, Hong Kong, China
From $ 65
West Lake (Xi Hu)
West Lake (Xi Hu) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top attraction in the heart of old Hangzhou. With mountains on three sides and plenty of charming gardens, bridges, pagodas, temples, and islands, it’s easy to see why this scenic man-made lake has inspired so many poets and painters through the ages.
The Basics
The 2.5-square-mile (6.5-square-kilometer) West Lake is filled with sights to see, including the Ten Scenes of West Lake, a series of vistas around the water. First compiled during the Southern Song Dynasty, the Ten Scenes gained popularity under Emperor Kangxi during the Qing Dynasty, and include Viewing Fish at Flower Harbour and Moon Reflected on Three Ponds.
To see much of the lake in a short amount of time, rent bicycles, catch an electric cart, or take a leisurely boat cruise around the water. Allot several hours and consider combining a visit to West Lake with a tour of nearby attractions, such as Lingyin Temple and Qinghefang Ancient Street. Full-day tours, including day tours from Shanghai to West Lake, typically also include a visit to a nearby tea plantation. Choose a multi-day tour to gain in-depth insight into Hangzhou and its surrounding areas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- West Lake is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
- Wear comfortable shoes, if you plan on walking, especially across long causeways like the Su Causeway, which is 1.7 miles (2.8 kilometers) long.
- West Lake is free to visit, but some of its attractions, including Leifeng Pagoda, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, and the Tomb of General Yue Fei, require an admission fee.
How to Get There
West Lake is in the historic center of Hangzhou, about 19 miles (30 kilometers) from the airport. Visitors from Hangzhou can easily reach it using various transportation. Travelers by train from other cities should get off at Hangzhou Train Station, the closest station to West Lake. From Shanghai, you can take a bullet train and drive a car. Or, book a tour with round-trip transport.
When to Get There
West Lake is a popular destination year-round. Spring is one of the busiest times to visit, when bountiful peach and plum blossoms are in full bloom, while summer visitors often come for the lotus flowers. Fall weather is pleasant, with less rain than usual, and winter is cold and wet with fewer visitors. The rainy season runs from April to September.
Where to Find the Most Photogenic Spots on West Lake
The best panoramic views of West Lake can be found at the Chenghuang Pavilion, the top of Leifeng Pagoda, and Baoshi Mountain. For sunset views, head to Broken Bridge, Su Causeway, Yanggong Causeway, or Xiaoyinzhou Island.
Address: China
From $ 37
Wuzhen Water Town
A crisscrossing waterway, which is part of the Beijing-Hangzhou Canal, the longest canal in the world, divides Wuzhen, one of the six famous ancient water towns south of the Yangtze River. For centuries, houses, shops, and markets have been built along the river’s edge, with stone railings, picturesque courtyards, and ancient bridges connecting traditional wood and stone structures. The town’s architecture, infrastructure, and way of life hasn’t changed much over the centuries, making the whole of Wuzhen something of a living, breathing museum, with some areas more aimed at tourists than others.
There’s plenty to see and do on a visit to Wuzhen Water Town, and it’s best enjoyed as a full day tour. A trip will include a ride on a traditional wooden boat, plus a visit to East Street, where many of the town’s attractions are based, such as the Hundred Bed Museum, the Sanbai Wine Workshop, and the Hongyuan Thai dye house. Taking in the traditional artform of shadow puppetry is also a must on a trip to Wuzhen Water Town, and the Huagu Opera, a local drama depicting rural life through lively music and traditional costume, is not to be missed either.
Insider’s Tip
Although Wuzhen Water Town can be enjoyed at any time of the year, spring is a particularly good time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and the spring scenery making it all the more pleasant.
Practical Info
Wuzhen lies conveniently within the triangle formed by Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Shanghai. If not traveling as part of a day tour, take the bullet train to Tongxiang from either of these cities and then take a taxi to Wuzhen.
Address: Wuzhen Town, Tongxiang, Eastern China 314500, China
From $ 13
Wuhou Memorial Temple
Dating back nearly 2,000 years, Wuhou Memorial Temple in a southern suburb of Chengdu is steeped in history and lore. The site is meant to honor Liu Bei, emperor of the Shu Kingdom, as well as his much revered military strategist Zhuge Liang—two immensely popular figures in Chinese history.
The Basics
Rebuilt in 1672, Wuhou Memorial Temple evokes a sense of nostalgia, with its old cypress trees and classic Chinese architecture. The grounds are divided into five sections, including two gates, a corridor, and a pair of halls—the Hall of Liu Bei and the Hall of Zhuge Liang—honoring the two historical figures. The temple often features in Chengdu city sightseeing tours, along with other Chengdu attractions, such as the Chengdu giant panda research base, Jinli Street, and Qingyang Palace. Opt for a private tour to combine the temple with other attractions on your must-see list.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Wuhou Temple is a must-visit for history buffs and spiritual travelers.
- Give yourself about an hour to tour the temple grounds.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Much of the temple complex is wheelchair accessible.
- Luggage lockers are available near the main entrance to the temple.
How to Get There
The best way to get to the temple using public transportation is to take the Chengdu Metro (Line 3) to Gaoshengqiao Station. From there, walk eastward on Wuhouci Avenue to the temple entrance. Half a dozen public buses also stop at nearby Wuhouci Station.
When to Get There
Since many of the temple’s attractions are outdoors, it’s a good idea to visit during the spring (March to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather in Sichuan province is mild. Expect big crowds on Chinese national holidays.
The Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Bei and Liang lived during the “Three Kingdoms Period” (AD 169–280)—an era that has attained a somewhat cultlike following among literary buffs and fans of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, a 14th-century epic novel. While Three Kingdoms fans will consider this to be somewhat of a pilgrimage, those not familiar with the novel will still enjoy ambling among the cypress- and bamboo-covered pathways of the temple complex.
Address: China
From $ 15
Wenshu Temple
Located in northern Chengdu, Wenshu Temple is often regarded as the best-preserved Buddhist temple in the city. Originally known as Xinxiang Temple, the Buddhist center was later renamed after a 17th-century monk who famously inhabited the monastery. The temple features an 11-story iron pagoda—the largest of its kind in China.
The Basics
Though nestled amid a fast-paced street in the Sichuan capital, the grounds of the Wenshu Monastery offer visitors well-manicured gardens and intricate statues and carvings at every turn. Sip a cup of tea from the temple teahouse and vegetarian restaurant while listening to folk music, or visit the numerous cultural relics housed within the monastery grounds, including a broken skull fragment from the monk scholar Xuan Zhang and a jade Buddha from Myanmar (formerly Burma) brought to China in 1922.
Only a few sightseeing tours include the temple, but it’s possible to see it as part of a customized private tour of Chengdu, along with any other attractions you may be interested in.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wenshu Temple is a must-see for those with an interest in Buddhism or travelers looking for an escape from the crowds.
- Entrance to the temple is free.
- The Wenshu complex is an active temple, so please be respectful of the devotees there to worship.
How to Get There
To get to the temple, arrive with a tour group or r take Metro Line 1 or Bus 16, 52, or 55 to Wenshuyuan Station.
When to Get There
While typically buzzing with devotees, Wenshu Temple isn’t as frequently visited by tourists as other Chengdu attractions, so there isn’t really a bad time to visit. If possible, opt for a cool spring or fall afternoon when the weather permits sitting outside with a cup of tea.
The Story of Cidu
According to local lore, a Zen Buddhist monk named Cidu came to the temple during the Qing Dynasty and lived in a hut between a pair of trees for several years. When he died and his body was being cremated, an image of Wenshu, a Bodhisattva, appeared in the flames. This led to the belief that Cidu had been a reincarnation of Wenshu; hence, the new temple name.
Address: Chengdu, China
From $ 15
Xizhou Town
One of the most picturesque towns in the vicinity of Dali, as well as one of the best places to see traditional Bai architecture, is the town of Xizhou. Formerly a military stronghold of the Nanzhou Kingdom, Xizhou began to flourish during the first half of the twentieth century when a group of over 100 wealthy nationalist families relocated there, calling themselves the Xizhou Chamber of Commerce.
While much of Dali’s traditional Bai architecture has been “updated” to suit the tastes of modern Chinese travelers, Xizhou remains relatively untouched — it’s home to the largest collection of Bai residential houses in China, over a hundred of which are considered registered cultural relics.
Most visitors come to Xizhou on a day trip from Dali, but those who choose to stay overnight can sleep in a Bai-style courtyard home, as several have been converted into guest houses.
Practical Info
Xizhou is located 12 miles (20 kilometers) north of Dali. The easiest way to get there is by minibus from the west gate of Dali.
Address: Xizhou, Yunnan 671003, China
From $ 160
Xingping Village
Formerly a sleepy fishing village along the Li River, Xingping is now a popular visitor destination for its rural landscape and well-preserved ancient architecture. Hiking and biking are popular ways to soak in the scenery, and Xingping is also the starting point of many river cruises as it’s on an especially beautiful stretch of the Li River.
The Basics
Wander along Xingping Old Street and marvel at architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nearby Xingping Fishing Village features nearly 50 well-preserved residences with distinctive blue brick, black tiles, and stone pillars. Stop by the old banyan tree, planted in the Tang dynasty, that keeps “eating” Buddha statues and large rocks. Just outside of Xingping (about a 10-minute walk) is the landscape that’s featured on the back of the 20 Yuan note.
The best way to experience Xingping is by boat, bicycle, or on foot. Many day tours from Guilin and Yangshuo combine a visit to Xingping with a boat cruise along the Li River, or a hike or a bike ride alongside the Li River. Photographers delight in capturing fishermen fishing using cormorants, an experience best viewed at sunrise and sunset.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s about 1.3-miles (2-kilometers) from Xingping Ancient Town to Xingping Fishing Village.
- All the boats and rafts along the Li River are motorized.
- Those who ride a bicycle to Xingping should note that the Fuli route is mostly flat, while the tea plantation route features hills and is suitable for more experienced cyclists.
- If you plan to hike from Xingping to Yangdi, bring sun protection and water as there is very little shade.
How to Get There
Xingping is located about 16 miles (25 kilometers) north of Yangshuo, along the banks of the Li River. Buses depart for Xingping from Yangshuo Bus Station regularly and take about an hour. Yangshuo Train Station is also near Xingping. An alternative is to take a motorized bamboo raft from Yangdi (1.5 hours). Another popular way to visit Xingping from Yangshuo is to ride a bicycle or motorbike.
When to Get There
Xingping Village is a popular attraction and many tour groups stop here. Local market days can be lively time to visit, but expect large crowds. Crowds swell during the May and October national holidays, the height of the local tourist season. Sunrise and sunsets are the best times for taking photos of fisherman with cormorant.
The Many Hills Near Xingping
The many hills near Xingping have names reflecting what they are said to resemble. Take a look around and see if you can spot Five Finger Hill, Snail Hill, Liyu (Carp) Hill, Bijia (Pen Holder) Hill, Daojian (Knife and Sword) Hill, or Tablet Hill.
Address: Yangshuo, China
From $ 95
Xian Museum & Small Goose Pagoda (Xiaoyanta)
One of Xi'an’s newest attractions, the Xi'an Museum, stands nearby one of its oldest, the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, built around 707. The 15-tiered stone structure has witnessed centuries of history—a history on display in its neighboring museum through a collection of archaeological pieces, jade ornaments, calligraphy, and Buddhist art.
The Basics
While not as popular as the Shaanxi History Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this pair of Xi'an attractions offers a juxtaposed glimpse at the city, ancient and modern. Climb a narrow staircase to the top of the pagoda for panoramic views over the temple complex and then head into the museum to watch a video on the history of the pagoda before touring the collection of Buddhist statues and other works of art.
The Xi'an Museum and neighboring pagoda are sometimes included in sightseeing tours, along with Xi'an attractions, such as the Terracotta Warriors, Xi'an City Wall, and the Muslim District.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Xi'an Museum and Small Goose Pagoda are must-sees for history buffs and those looking to get off the beaten path.
- Jianfu Temple, where the Small Goose Pagoda is located, is free to enter but both the pagoda and museum require tickets.
- Don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID to pick up a free ticket to the museum.
- Only a limited number of tickets are available each day, so book early to avoid disappointment.
How to Get There
Both the museum and pagoda are situated on the grounds of Jianfu Temple in south Xi'an. Tourist buses 7 and 8 both stop near the temple at Xiaoyanta Station, or you can ride the Xi'an Metro (Line 2) to Nanshaomen Station.
When to Get There
The temple grounds are open Wednesday to Sunday throughout the year. Plan to visit on a weekday morning, if possible, and avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays.
The Magical History of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda
According to local legend, an earthquake in 1487 created a large crack in the wall of the Small Wild Goose Pagoda. In 1521, another earthquake shook the structure, but this time the crack disappeared seemingly overnight. During a restoration in the late 20th century, architects learned that the rammed earth foundation of the pagoda allows it to withstand earthquakes by evenly distributing the pressure, though the mysterious sealing of the crack has never been explained.
Address: China
From $ 21
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Coral Island, a former fishing village, is now one of Sanya’s most scenic beach destinations. The tiny butterfly-shaped island a few miles off the coast of Hainan gets its name from the colorful coral reefs just of the beach, where divers and snorkelers head to spot conches, sea urchins and a host of tropical fish.
Back on shore, the island is ringed with soft, white sand beaches, ideal for sunbathing. Other points of interest on the island include a temple dedicated to Matsu, the Buddhist goddess of the sea, and aptly named Sunrise Rock, where visitors come in the early hours to watch the sun peek up from the watery horizon. Several bars and restaurants cater to island visitors, and there’s a small guest house for those who prefer to stay the night.
Practical Info
It’s possible to rent snorkeling gear, diving equipment and underwater cameras from vendors on the island.
Address: Sanya, Southern China, China
Hours: 7am-6pm
Admission: 123 RMB
From $ 101
Wulingyuan
The UNESCO-listed Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area encompasses more than 100 square miles (260 square kilometers) of Central China’s Hunan Province. The vast protected area is most famous for its 3,000 narrow sandstone pillars, some poking more than 650 feet (200 meters) into the sky.
While the stone forest is impressive enough as is, it also hides serene streams, natural pools and waterfalls, natural bridges and 40-odd karst caves. The park is also home to impressive biodiversity, including over 3000 species of plants.
Wulingyaun is divided into four national parks: Suoxi Valley Nature Reserve, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, Yangjiajie Scenic area and, most famously, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Hiking is popular throughout, and with so much area, there are plenty of trains to occupy avid hikers for days or even weeks.
Practical Info
The entrance ticket is good for all four national parks for a period of four days. It includes rides on the internal bus system, but cable cars, elevators and tourist trains will cost extra.
Address: Zhangjiajie, Southern China, China
Admission: 248 Yuan
From $ 165
Xihai Grand Canyon
Since 2001, travelers have been venturing to this top destination for incredible views of the Xihai Area, scenic overlooks and truly epic landscapes. Visitors can tour the entire area, which covers some 25-kilometers across an easy-to-follow circular route, and winds past dozens of stunning rock formations.
A network of steep steps leads travelers through ever-changing landscapes, which include pine forests and rocky crags. The memorable Fairy-walking Bridge guides visitors to the White Cloud Area, where a more difficult climb for the truly fit results in some of the area’s best views. Those in the know say that even the stairs can be difficult to navigate, so the Xihai Grand Canyon is best left to visitors in good health—and with good hiking shoes.
Practical Info
Xihai Grand Canyon is located in the western part of the Huangshan Scenic Area between the Cloud dispelling Pavillion and the White Cloud Area. It measures 25 square kilometers.
Address: Huangshan Scenic Area, Huangshan, China
From $ 139
Wangjiang Tower Park & Tomb of Wang Jian
Situated on the banks of the Jinjiang River in Chengdu, Wangjiang Tower Park is dedicated to Xue Tao, a Tang Dynasty female poet who penned some 500 poems. Her marble statue sits amid a bamboo grove. The similarly named Tomb of Wang Jian sits nearby and serves as the final resting place for the emperor of the short-lived Shu Kingdom.
The Basics
These neighboring attractions lie off the main tourist circuit in Chengdu, each offering insight into a notable figure in the city’s history. Visitors to the park can stop at a traditional teahouse for tea made from water drawn from the Xue Tao Well or wander amid the 150 species of bamboo (a favorite plant of Xue Tao).
A visit to the neighboring tomb—the only known above-ground burial site of an imperial Chinese ruler—reveals the only life-size statue of Wang Jian, along with a series of stone statues depicting soldiers and musicians. Some sightseeing tours of the city stop at the park, along with other Chengdu attractions, such as the giant panda breeding center, Wide and Narrow Street, and Factory Memorial Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park and tomb are must-sees for history buffs, literary-minded travelers, and those looking for an escape from the crowds.
- Give yourself 90 minutes to two hours to tour both the park and nearby tomb.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- It’s free to enter the park, but the tomb and a few other structures charge an entrance fee.
How to Get There
To get to Wangjiang Tower Park, take Bus 19, 35, or 1107 to Wangjianglou Gongyuan station.
When to Get There
Both attractions are open daily throughout the year, though it’s a good idea to avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays when they’ll get crowded with domestic tourists. The best time to enjoy the park is in spring (March to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild.
Xue Tao Paper
In addition to being a celebrated and prolific poet, Xue Tao was known for inventing a type of delicate paper, today known as Xue Tao Paper, made from water drawn from the well found within the park. Colorful and delicate, the paper was considered of much better quality than the standard coarse, yellow paper used at the time.
Address: China
From $ 67
World Expo Museum
In 2010, the eyes of the world turned to Shanghai as it hosted the Shanghai Expo 2010, a World’s Fair held on the banks of the Huangpu River. The record-breaking event saw 192 countries participate and more than 73 million visitors pass through the gates. The China Pavilion, nicknamed the Oriental Crown, was the largest national pavilion to show at the Shanghai Expo and cost an estimated $220 million to build.
Most of the Expo pavilions were dismantled after the event concluding, but the China Pavilion was converted into a permanent history museum. The structure, painted in seven different subtle shades of Chinese red symbolizing Chinese culture and good fortune, has already become a Shanghai landmark. While the building itself is impressive, the collection of Chinese art within is worth a visit on its own.
Most of the Expo pavilions were dismantled after the event concluding, but the China Pavilion was converted into a permanent history museum. The structure, painted in seven different subtle shades of Chinese red symbolizing Chinese culture and good fortune, has already become a Shanghai landmark. While the building itself is impressive, the collection of Chinese art within is worth a visit on its own.
Address: No. 818 Mengzi Road, Shanghai, China
From $ 142
Yamdrok Lake
Located about 62 miles (100 km) to the southwest of Lhasa, Yamdrok Lake is the largest lake in southern Tibet and one of the country’s three sacred bodies of water. More than 45 miles (72 km) long with depths of up to 197 feet (60 meters), this freshwater lake is a beautiful jade green color; the mirror-like surface reflects the clouds. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it’s also a place of pilgrimage for the Tibetan people and is said to be the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. Legend has it that if its waters dry up, Tibet will no longer be habitable. The waters of the lake are also rumored to make the old young again and improve the intelligence of children. Legends aside, Yamdrok Lake is known for commercial fishing and a variety of avian life.
Yamdrok Lake was also home to the Samding monastery, famous for the fact that it was the only one in Tibet to have a female abbot. The residence of the Dorje Pakmo (the highest female Lama), the monastery is currently inactive but is being restored.
Practical Info
It’s about a three- or four-hour trip from Lhasa to the summit of Kamba-la pass, which is 16,319 feet (4974 m) above sea level. From here, guests have the best views of Yamdrok Lake. If desired, they can travel down to the lake to touch the waters.
Address: China
From $ 1,880
World Financial Center Building
Nicknamed the “Bottle Opener” due to its distinctive shape, the World Financial Center is the second tallest building in Shanghai, reaching a dizzying 1,614 feet (492 meters). Its three observatories—in particular, the glass-bottomed observatory on the 100th floor—are the main draw of the building, located in the Lujiazui area of Pudong. There’s also a hotel and a mall.
The Basics
The three observatories in the World Financial Center are on floors 94, 97, and 100. The 97th floor has an observation bridge, while the 100th floor features three transparent glass walkways and panoramic windows for 360-degree views of Shanghai. Find a mall with dining options on the lower levels and a Park Hyatt Hotel on floors 79 to 93.
Purchase admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line, or combine a visit to the World Financial Center with a tour. Tours with views of the building include a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Shanghai and Huangpu River dinner cruises. Many half-day, full-day, and evening sightseeing tour include a visit to one of its observation decks with other top Shanghai attractions. Or visit on a private customizable tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The different observatories require separate tickets; a ticket can be purchased to access all three observatories.
- Enjoy free WiFi in the public areas of the building.
- The building is accessible to wheelchair users.
- High-speed elevators take only one minute to reach the 94th floor.
How to Get There
The World Financial Center is located on Century Avenue, in Pudong. By metro, take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station. You can also take bus 1, 81, 82, 86, 96, 119, 483, 792, 818, or 985 to Lujiazui Station. It’s also possible to take a ferry from the Bund across the river, and walk a few minutes to the World Financial Center.
When to Get There
Visit the World Financial Center’s observation decks, open daily from 8am to 11pm, on a clear day for the best views. Or, arrive just before sunset and stay for the nighttime views, when buildings on both sides of the Huangpu River light up.
Tallest Buildings in Shanghai
The World Financial Center is located close to the other three tallest buildings in Shanghai, all of which also offer observatories. The tallest building is the Shanghai Tower. The other two are the Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Jinmao Tower.
Address: 100 Century Avenue, Pudong, Shanghai, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Wuyou Temple
After visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha, make your way to Wuyou Temple on Wuyou Mountain. Traverse the picturesque Haoshang Bridge, a shortcut to the temple over the river, and make the climb up the steps to the Wuyou Temple.
Built in the Tang Dynasty, the site consists of seven Buddhist palaces, all surrounded by lush trees. Featuring an ancient courtyard on the outside with various statues of the Buddhist pantheon inside, this well-preserved temple is a gem. Be sure to make note of the 500 Arhats Hall with its beautifully painted life-sized clay figures of 500 of the Buddha's disciples. Though the stairs up might seem like a workout (it takes about 30 minutes to reach the temple), the views afforded at this height are worth the walk.
Practical Info
This temple is rarely crowded, as many visitors simply go to see the Giant Buddha and then leave. There is a bit of a climb up the hill, but the temple at the top is serene and peaceful. Entry into Wuyou Temple is included in the price for visiting the Grand Buddha and is open from 7:30am to 4:30pm.
Address: Chengdu, China
Hours: Daily 7:30am–4:30pm
Admission: 90 RMB
From $ 84