National Geographic has compiled a list of the 50 must-visit places in China. Check out how many you've already visited and plan your next adventure!

🍃 Natural Landscapes:

1. Kanas (喀纳斯)
   Kanas offers stunning natural beauty with its lush forests and crystal-clear lake. It's a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

2. Ejina Poplar Forest (额济纳旗胡杨林)
   Witness the golden hues of the poplar forest in autumn, a mesmerizing sight that feels like stepping into a painting.

3. Hulunbuir (呼伦贝尔)
   The vast grasslands of Hulunbuir are perfect for those seeking tranquility and the traditional nomadic lifestyle.

4. Jiuzhaigou Valley (九寨沟)
   Known for its multi-colored lakes and picturesque waterfalls, Jiuzhaigou is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit.

5. Greater Khingan Range (大兴安岭)
   Explore the dense forests and diverse wildlife of the Greater Khingan Range, a haven for adventure enthusiasts.

6. Kalajun Grassland (喀拉峻草原)
   Kalajun's rolling grasslands and vibrant wildflowers offer a breathtaking landscape that's perfect for horseback riding.

7. Nyingchi (林芝)
   Often referred to as the "Switzerland of Tibet," Nyingchi boasts stunning mountain scenery and lush forests.

8. Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon (雅鲁藏布大峡谷)
   This is one of the deepest canyons in the world, offering dramatic landscapes and challenging trekking routes.

9. Shennongjia (神农架)
   Home to diverse flora and fauna, Shennongjia is an explorer's paradise with its mysterious forests and unique wildlife.

10. Huangguoshu Waterfall (黄果树瀑布)
    As one of China's largest waterfalls, Huangguoshu is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that attracts visitors year-round.

11. Hukou Waterfall (壶口瀑布)
    This magnificent waterfall on the Yellow River is famous for its thunderous roar and powerful flow.

12. Three Gorges of the Yangtze River (长江三峡)
    The scenic Three Gorges offer spectacular views and are best experienced via a relaxing river cruise.

13. Nujiang Grand Canyon (怒江大峡谷)
    Known for its dramatic cliffs and deep gorges, Nujiang Grand Canyon is a lesser-known but equally stunning destination.

14. Daocheng Yading (稻城亚丁)
    Often called the "last Shangri-La," Daocheng Yading is renowned for its untouched natural beauty and serene landscapes.

15. Ngari (阿里)
    Ngari offers remote and rugged beauty, perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure in Tibet's far reaches.

🏛 Cultural and Historical Sites: 16. Great Wall of China (万里长城)
No trip to China is complete without visiting the Great Wall, an ancient marvel that stretches across the northern part of the country.

17. Forbidden City, Beijing (北京故宫)
    Explore the rich history and magnificent architecture of the Forbidden City, once home to China's emperors.

18. Potala Palace (布达拉宫)
    This iconic palace in Lhasa is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

19. Mogao Caves (敦煌莫高窟)
    Discover ancient Buddhist art and murals at the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

20. Yungang Grottoes (云冈石窟)
    These impressive cave temples are renowned for their intricate carvings and historical significance.

21. Longmen Grottoes (龙门石窟)
    Visit the Longmen Grottoes to see thousands of Buddha statues carved into cliffs along the Yi River.

22. Terracotta Army (兵马俑)
    The Terracotta Army in Xi'an is a remarkable archaeological site, showcasing thousands of life-sized warrior statues.

🏔 Famous Mountains: 23. Mount Tai (泰山)
One of China's Five Great Mountains, Mount Tai is a place of cultural and religious importance with stunning views.

24. Mount Huangshan (黄山)
    Famous for its beautiful scenery, Mount Huangshan is a favorite among hikers and photographers.

25. Mount Huashan (华山)
    Known for its steep trails and breathtaking vistas, Mount Huashan offers a thrilling adventure for climbers.

26. Mount Everest (珠穆朗玛峰)
    The world's highest peak, Mount Everest, is a dream destination for mountaineers and adventurers.

27. Gongga Snow Mountain (贡嘎雪山)
    Gongga Snow Mountain, also known as Minya Konka, is renowned for its towering peaks and challenging climbs.

28. Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山)
    A sacred mountain in Tibetan Buddhism, Meili Snow Mountain is revered for its stunning beauty.

29. Siguniang Mountain (四姑娘山)
    Known as the "Four Sisters Mountain," Siguniang offers scenic beauty and excellent trekking opportunities.

🌊 Scenic Lakes and Rivers: 30. West Lake (西湖)
West Lake in Hangzhou is famed for its picturesque beauty and tranquil ambiance, ideal for a leisurely stroll.

31. Erhai Lake (洱海)
    Surrounded by mountains, Erhai Lake is a serene spot perfect for boating and relaxation.

32. Lugu Lake (泸沽湖)
    Lugu Lake, on the border of Yunnan and Sichuan, is known for its clear waters and the unique Mosuo culture.

33. Namtso Lake (纳木错)
    One of Tibet's three holy lakes, Namtso is known for its stunning blue waters and spiritual significance.

34. Qinghai Lake (青海湖)
    The largest lake in China, Qinghai Lake offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.

35. Sayram Lake (赛里木湖)
    Sayram Lake, located in Xinjiang, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a perfect spot for nature lovers.

🏘 Charming Small Towns: 36. Shangri-La (香格里拉)
Shangri-La is a mythical paradise with stunning landscapes and rich Tibetan culture.

37. Xishuangbanna (西双版纳)
    Known for its tropical climate and Dai culture, Xishuangbanna is a vibrant and colorful destination.

38. Yangshuo (阳朔)
    Yangshuo is famous for its karst mountains and idyllic countryside, perfect for cycling and boat tours.

39. Mohe (漠河)
    As the northernmost town in China, Mohe offers unique experiences like the Northern Lights and white nights.

40. Wuyuan (婺源)
    Wuyuan is renowned for its picturesque countryside, ancient villages, and vibrant rapeseed flower fields.

41. Ili (伊犁)
    Ili is known for its beautiful lavender fields, diverse cultures, and stunning natural scenery.

42. Tengchong (腾冲)
    Tengchong is famous for its hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and rich history.

🏡 Ancient Towns and Villages: 43. Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城)
Lijiang Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical site with charming streets and traditional Naxi culture.

44. Wuzhen (乌镇)
    Wuzhen is a picturesque water town with ancient bridges, canals, and traditional architecture.

45. Pingyao Ancient City (平遥古城)
    Pingyao Ancient City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture.

46. Zhouzhuang (周庄)
    Zhouzhuang is one of China's most famous water towns, known for its beautiful canals and historic buildings.

47. Fenghuang Ancient Town (凤凰古城)
    Fenghuang Ancient Town is known for its scenic beauty, traditional buildings, and rich Miao culture.

48. Anhui Traditional Residences (安徽民居)
    Explore the traditional residences of Anhui, known for their unique Huizhou architecture.

49. Fujian Tulou (福建土楼)
    The Fujian Tulou are unique earthen buildings that serve as communal living spaces and are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

50. Kaiping Diaolou (开平碉楼)
    The Kaiping Diaolou are fortified multi-story towers that blend Chinese and Western architectural styles.

Travel is not about wealth, but about living a life beyond the ordinary. 🌍 Embrace the beauty of the world and cherish every moment. 🇨🇳 Plan to explore every inch of China, collecting memories and experiences along the way.