Top Attractions in Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Chengdu

China’s top cities—Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Chengdu—are rich in history, culture, and modern experiences. Whether you’re interested in ancient wonders, modern skylines, or giant pandas, these cities offer something for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to the top attractions in each city.
🏯 Beijing – The Capital of Ancient & Modern China
Beijing is a city where ancient history meets modern development. As China’s capital, it offers some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.
1. The Great Wall of China 🏰
- Why Visit? One of the Seven Wonders of the World, stretching over 13,000 miles.
- Best Sections for Tourists:
- Mutianyu – Less crowded, best for first-time visitors.
- Badaling – The most famous and busiest section.
- Jinshanling – Best for hiking and photography.
2. The Forbidden City 🏯
- Why Visit? The world’s largest imperial palace, home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- Must-See: Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Imperial Garden, and the Treasure Gallery.
3. Tiananmen Square 
- Why Visit? The world’s largest public square and home to key historical landmarks.
- Nearby Attractions: Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, the National Museum of China.
4. Temple of Heaven ⛩
- Why Visit? An ancient temple where emperors prayed for good harvests.
- Tip: Visit in the morning to see locals practicing Tai Chi.
5. Summer Palace 🌿
- Why Visit? A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning lakes, gardens, and palaces.
- Must-Do: Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake.
6. Hutongs & Nanluoguxiang 🏘
- Why Visit? Explore Beijing’s traditional alleyways, rich in history and local culture.
- Best Activities: Try local street food and ride a rickshaw.
7. Peking Duck Dinner 🍽
- Why Visit? Beijing’s signature dish, best enjoyed at Quanjude or Da Dong restaurants.
🏙 Shanghai – The Modern Face of China
Shanghai is China’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, famous for its skyscrapers and vibrant culture.
1. The Bund 🌆
- Why Visit? A stunning waterfront with panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline.
- Best Time to Visit: At night when the city lights up.
2. Yu Garden & Old Town 🏯
- Why Visit? A classical Chinese garden with intricate pavilions, ponds, and rock formations.
- Nearby: The City God Temple and traditional tea houses.
3. Shanghai Tower 🏙
- Why Visit? The tallest building in China, offering breathtaking city views.
- Tip: Visit the observation deck on the 118th floor.
4. Nanjing Road 🛍
- Why Visit? China’s most famous shopping street, with a mix of luxury brands and local markets.
5. French Concession ☕
- Why Visit? A charming neighborhood with European-style buildings, boutique shops, and cafés.
6. Zhujiajiao Water Town 🚣
- Why Visit? A beautiful ancient town known as the “Venice of Shanghai.”
- Must-Do: Take a boat ride through its canals.
7. Xintiandi 🎶
- Why Visit? A lively nightlife area with trendy bars and restaurants.
🏛 Xi’an – The Ancient Capital of China
Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities, is home to historical treasures and cultural wonders.
1. The Terracotta Army 🎭
- Why Visit? One of China’s greatest archaeological discoveries, with over 8,000 life-sized warriors.
2. Ancient City Wall 🚴
- Why Visit? The best-preserved city wall in China, offering scenic bike rides.
3. Muslim Quarter & Great Mosque 🍢
- Why Visit? A vibrant street market with delicious local snacks like roujiamo (Chinese burger) and yangrou paomo (pita bread soaked in lamb soup).
4. Big Wild Goose Pagoda 🏯
- Why Visit? A famous Buddhist pagoda with great historical significance.
5. Shaanxi History Museum 🏛
- Why Visit? A must-visit museum showcasing ancient artifacts from China’s dynastic past.
6. Huaqing Hot Springs & Mount Li 🏞
- Why Visit? A historic retreat for emperors, offering scenic views and hot springs.
🐼 Chengdu – The Land of Pandas & Sichuan Cuisine
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is known for its pandas, spicy food, and laid-back lifestyle.
1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding 🐼
- Why Visit? The best place to see giant pandas up close.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning when pandas are most active.
2. Jinli Ancient Street 🏮
- Why Visit? A lively street with traditional Sichuan architecture, street food, and souvenirs.
3. Leshan Giant Buddha 🗿
- Why Visit? The world’s largest stone Buddha statue, carved into a cliffside.
4. Wuhou Shrine & Kuanzhai Alley 🏯
- Why Visit? A historic temple honoring Zhuge Liang and a cultural street with tea houses.
5. Mount Qingcheng ⛰
- Why Visit? A sacred Taoist mountain with scenic hiking trails.
6. Sichuan Opera & Face-Changing Performance 🎭
- Why Visit? A unique cultural experience showcasing traditional Sichuan opera skills.
7. Hotpot in Chengdu 🔥
- Why Visit? Sichuan hotpot is famous for its spicy and numbing flavors. Try it at Haidilao or Shujiuxiang.
Plan Your Trip with HelloChinaTrip.com
Visiting Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Chengdu in one trip can be overwhelming. That’s why most travelers choose a customized tour to make the most of their time.
🌟 Why Book with HelloChinaTrip.com?
✔ Personalized Itineraries – Tailored to your interests and budget.
✔ Hassle-Free Travel – We handle hotels, tickets, guides, and transport.
✔ Local Experts – English-speaking guides for an authentic experience.
✔ Affordable Prices – Best value for money with no hidden costs.
🚀 Start planning your trip today! Visit HelloChinaTrip.com for a free consultation.
Want a More Personalized Best China Tour?
Talk to us about booking a private or custom tour for your unique China experience.
Explore Some of Our Most Loved Travel Itineraries
Travel Memories
Video Testimonials
Top 5 Must-Visit Cities in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Chengdu and Guilin!
China Travel Guide: Beijing, Xi'an & Shanghai 🇨🇳
Testimonials








Winter Tour
We joined the China Winter Tour to Harbin for the Ice Festival. It was spectacular! The snow sculptures were breathtaking, and our guide, Tom , made sure we stayed warm and comfortable. The hotpot dinner was the perfect end to our icy day. Highly recommended for winter lovers!
Sofia
A Memorable Great Wall Experience!
We booked the Great Wall of China Tour with HelloChinaTrip, and it exceeded our expectations! From the moment we started in Beijing, our guide, Emily, made every step of the journey engaging and informative. Visiting both the Mutianyu and Jinshanling sections allowed us to experience the Wall’s grandeur in a relaxed, unhurried way. The hidden historical stories shared by Emily made the tour unforgettable. We also enjoyed delicious local meals along the way, thanks to their excellent recommendations. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Alexandra
A Dream Family Vacation!
Our Family Tour with HelloChinaTrip was phenomenal! We explored Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou over 10 days, and everything was perfectly organized. Special thanks to our guide, Lily , who was patient and fantastic with the kids, keeping them entertained and engaged with fascinating stories. The itinerary was a perfect mix of history, culture, and fun activities. We especially loved the boat ride on West Lake. This trip created lasting family memories we’ll cherish forever!
Oliver
Incredible Silk Road Adventure
We embarked on a 12-day Silk Road Tour, and every moment was magical. From Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves to Kashgar’s bustling markets, the journey was packed with highlights. Our guide, Michael , was passionate and knowledgeable, providing insights that brought ancient history to life. The accommodations were excellent, and the transportation was seamless. This tour gave us a profound appreciation for China’s rich cultural tapestry. Highly recommend!
Nadia
Yangtze River Cruise – Truly Unforgettable!
The Yangtze River Cruise with HelloChinaTrip was an experience we’ll never forget. The 5-day journey aboard the luxury vessel was comfortable and well-planned. Our guide, Jason, shared stories about the Three Gorges that added depth to the stunning scenery. The onboard activities and meals were excellent, and every detail was taken care of. This was the highlight of our trip to China!
Liam K
A Magical Panda Tour!
Our Panda Tour in Chengdu was everything we hoped for! We visited the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, and our guide, Sophia , provided fascinating insights into panda conservation efforts. Watching the pandas play and feed was heartwarming. The tour also included some wonderful stops at local temples and markets. An unforgettable day that connected us deeply with China’s wildlife and culture.
Mariko
Tibet Tour
Our 8-day Tibet Tour with HelloChinaTrip was an extraordinary journey. From the Potala Palace to the stunning Namtso Lake, every site was awe-inspiring. Our guide, Tenzin , was knowledgeable and deeply connected to his culture, sharing stories that made our visit to Tibet incredibly personal. The logistics were seamless, and we felt well taken care of in this remote region. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Samuel
Nature Tour of Guilin
Our nature tour through Guilin and Yangshuo was beyond beautiful. The Li River cruise and the hike through the Longji Rice Terraces were the highlights. Our guide, Leo , knew every hidden viewpoint and local story. The stunning landscapes and warm hospitality made this an unforgettable trip.
Isabella

Winter Tour
We joined the China Winter Tour to Harbin for the Ice Festival. It was spectacular! The snow sculptures were breathtaking, and our guide, Tom , made sure we stayed warm and comfortable. The hotpot dinner was the perfect end to our icy day. Highly recommended for winter lovers!
Sofia

A Memorable Great Wall Experience!
We booked the Great Wall of China Tour with HelloChinaTrip, and it exceeded our expectations! From the moment we started in Beijing, our guide, Emily, made every step of the journey engaging and informative. Visiting both the Mutianyu and Jinshanling sections allowed us to experience the Wall’s grandeur in a relaxed, unhurried way. The hidden historical stories shared by Emily made the tour unforgettable. We also enjoyed delicious local meals along the way, thanks to their excellent recommendations. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Alexandra

A Dream Family Vacation!
Our Family Tour with HelloChinaTrip was phenomenal! We explored Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou over 10 days, and everything was perfectly organized. Special thanks to our guide, Lily , who was patient and fantastic with the kids, keeping them entertained and engaged with fascinating stories. The itinerary was a perfect mix of history, culture, and fun activities. We especially loved the boat ride on West Lake. This trip created lasting family memories we’ll cherish forever!
Oliver

Incredible Silk Road Adventure
We embarked on a 12-day Silk Road Tour, and every moment was magical. From Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves to Kashgar’s bustling markets, the journey was packed with highlights. Our guide, Michael , was passionate and knowledgeable, providing insights that brought ancient history to life. The accommodations were excellent, and the transportation was seamless. This tour gave us a profound appreciation for China’s rich cultural tapestry. Highly recommend!
Nadia

Yangtze River Cruise – Truly Unforgettable!
The Yangtze River Cruise with HelloChinaTrip was an experience we’ll never forget. The 5-day journey aboard the luxury vessel was comfortable and well-planned. Our guide, Jason, shared stories about the Three Gorges that added depth to the stunning scenery. The onboard activities and meals were excellent, and every detail was taken care of. This was the highlight of our trip to China!
Liam K

A Magical Panda Tour!
Our Panda Tour in Chengdu was everything we hoped for! We visited the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, and our guide, Sophia , provided fascinating insights into panda conservation efforts. Watching the pandas play and feed was heartwarming. The tour also included some wonderful stops at local temples and markets. An unforgettable day that connected us deeply with China’s wildlife and culture.
Mariko

Tibet Tour
Our 8-day Tibet Tour with HelloChinaTrip was an extraordinary journey. From the Potala Palace to the stunning Namtso Lake, every site was awe-inspiring. Our guide, Tenzin , was knowledgeable and deeply connected to his culture, sharing stories that made our visit to Tibet incredibly personal. The logistics were seamless, and we felt well taken care of in this remote region. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Samuel

Nature Tour of Guilin
Our nature tour through Guilin and Yangshuo was beyond beautiful. The Li River cruise and the hike through the Longji Rice Terraces were the highlights. Our guide, Leo , knew every hidden viewpoint and local story. The stunning landscapes and warm hospitality made this an unforgettable trip.