Joanna James
From Forbidden Cities, dreamy water towns, and picturesque vintage markets to floating mountains and blazing neon skyscrapers, China is full of character-enriching contrasts for every traveller's bucket list. Here's what you can't miss in this dynamic heritage land.
Whether it's the bamboo rafting across the jade ripples of the Li River, capturing the world-famous sunsets of poetic West Lake, or pacing the intriguing cobblestoned canal streets of Lijiang, every province of China has its own sensational atmosphere to savour, whether you're an adventure addict, history and culture buff, nature enthusiast, or big city lover. If you're looking for larger-than-life escapades dipped in nature-kissed serenity, Guangzhou is not only a first-class trendsetting commercial hub, but it also hosts epic recreational trappings that evoke child-like wonder in the most blasé of globetrotters. For instance, the Chimelong Paradise Adventureland brims with an assortment of escapades for every brand of thrill-seeker, from its exotic safari park with its white tigers, panda triplets, and giant salamanders to its Tarzan-esque jungle-clad water slides and state-of-the-art amusement park rides.
Beijing is one of those destinations that stunningly transcend the imagination with a 'pinch me I'm dreaming' effect, regardless of whether you're most enamoured by centuries-old villa districts and world-renowned heritage sites, aromatic eat streets and jewel-toned antique markets, or lush parkland adorned with old-world and futuristic architectural masterpieces. You don't want to miss out on the retro-chic glamour of the Capital's repurposed traditional enclaves or hutongs, which represent a perfectly picturesque medley of old-timey authenticity, modern audacity, and delightful pockets of nature in its rustic cafés, high-end boutiques, sweet courtyards, traditional facades, and quaint reading nooks.
From record-breaking contemporary allurements like dizzying skyscraper promenades and deliciously imaginative café culture to strolling through the "living museum" of The Bund with its arresting blend of colonial grace and futuristic flair, Shanghai is a cityscape with an irresistible personality. However, nothing should distract you from its iconic foodie escapades, whether it's gourmet street food the likes of sesame-sweet eel noodles and perfectly crunchy radish fritters or delicacies ranging from Michelin-hyped Cantonese dishes to the succulent Shanghai Steamed Crab.
Even amid China's fast-paced modernisation, there are timeless microcosms of art, heritage, and nature that feel like dipping into a surrealist painting. One such postcard-idyllic settlement is Gubei Water Town, a glistening pearl nestled beneath the majesty of the Great Wall of China, characterised by Qing dynasty architecture styles, dreamy waterside courtyards, splendid mountain views, and an impressive collection of classical curios.
While China is enriched by dramatically beautiful mountain settings, from the rippling bamboo sea cresting Qianlonggou Waterfall Mountain to the whimsical dreaminess of witnessing the 'Moon Lake' from Five Finger Mountain, your Guangzhou itinerary is seriously lacking if you don't scale the iconic White Cloud Mountain, with its jewel-toned city views and fascinating relics fusing with crystal lakes, abundant blossoms, and decadent lushness. If you're looking for sophisticated serviced apartments in Tianhe District, proffering prime access to its diverse enticements, venture no further than the likes of Star Residence ICC Guangzhou.
If you can't get enough of flagstone streets riddled with dynastic landmarks, tuk-tuk rollercoasters through bejewelled metropolitan hubs, and entire districts dedicated to multi-ethnic specialities, Xi'an is another well-heeled storybook cityscape well worth a visit.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
