The most advanced city in China. The most interesting cities in China

This city is called the Pearl of the Yellow Sea or Northern Hong Kong. The Chinese consider it the most beautiful city in the country. Indeed, modern Dalian bears little resemblance to other Chinese cities. There are practically no ancient monuments in Dalian. By historical standards, this is a very young city. “Northern”, as the Chinese themselves call it, is younger than Vladivostok. However, for a Russian tourist Dalian is a special city. For almost half of its hundred-year history, it existed under a different name - Dalny.

Dalniy, Dairen, Dalian

Before 1898, there was no city called Dalian. There was the Liaodong Peninsula with the Lushun naval base and small fishing villages. Dalian was built from scratch. As did Harbin, which arose at the same time and became the main administrative and cultural center of the Chinese Eastern Railway. Dalny, located in a convenient bay on the coast of the Yellow Sea, became the terminus of the CER, its southern branch. Russian engineers planned the city for further development, began to deepen the harbor, build piers, breakwaters and shipyards. In 1903, both ports were connected to Harbin. A year later the war began. The Japanese captured Dalny, and at the beginning of 1905 Port Arthur. According to the Portsmouth Peace Treaty, it renounced the Liaodong Peninsula in favor of Japan.

Now the Japanese have taken up the development of Dalian. More precisely, Dairena. This is how the characters “Dalian” are read in Japanese. Over the 40 years of ownership, they built many buildings that still stand today. The Chinese still call them Japanese.

On August 23, 1945, Soviet troops landed in Dalny and Port Arthur. However, in 1954 we finally left the Liaodong Peninsula. Dalian was immediately renamed Luyda and only in 1981 the usual name was returned. Now there is little that reminds us of the Russian past. Only the names of some streets and monuments of Russian architecture.

At the beginning of 2000, the Dalian authorities decided to recreate the appearance of an ancient Russian street. They were not driven by the memory of the Russian past, but by commercial calculations. The Chinese are generally an enterprising nation. While some countries look back on their colonial past with anger and shame, Dalian authorities are trying to make money from it. This is how national streets appeared in the city, or rather restored - Japanese, Russian and Korean.

Russian street was designed by Khabarovsk architects. It was planned to build an Orthodox church and a museum of Russian history here. The Chinese wanted to recreate the Kremlin and Red Square. But they were politely hinted that there could only be one Red Square. The timing of the restoration is amazing. The street was built in just a year. The total investment in its reconstruction amounted to 170 million yuan.

By the way, “Russian street” owes its name to Boris Yeltsin. In 2001, during his holiday in Dalian, he visited the street, talked with the townspeople and with his signature approved the official name - “Street of Russian Color”.

The length of the street is 400 meters. On both sides there are buildings whose architecture reflects European and Russian styles. Moreover, all styles are often mixed together in one building. It’s curious, but for some reason the street attracts much more Chinese than Russians or Europeans. Maybe because this is the last place that reminds us that Dalian was once a Russian city in the heart of China.

City of Squares

Any tourist who comes to Dalian is struck by two things: the abundance of greenery and a large number of squares. There are 31 squares in the city. And if you count the suburban ones, then 50. Each of them has its own unique style and character. City squares are the special pride of Dalian. There is even a separate exhibition dedicated to them in the Museum of Modern Art.

It is believed that Dalian's love of squares owes to the presence of the Russians, who were the first to lay out a large, European-style central square from which ten roads radiated. When the Japanese came to the city, they continued the Russian tradition of building squares.

The oldest and most beautiful square in Dalian is Zhongshan Square. It is designed in the likeness of the Place des Stars in Paris. The central streets of the city radiate from it in different directions. The square also has another name - Musical Square, since concerts and folk festivals take place here every day.

Music Square is the historical heart of the city. The oldest buildings are located here. Dalian Binguan Hotel was built in 1927 by the Japanese. And today the main inhabitants of this hotel are Japanese tourists. The Japanese also built the Bank of China building. Today, the colonial buildings of the past are surprisingly combined with the rise of modern skyscrapers.

Victoria Square can also be called “musical”. It is no coincidence that along its perimeter there are musical symbols and decorations - a guitar, a saxophone, etc. In the evening, Victoria Square is also filled with a mass of people and turns into an open stage area. Here anyone who wants to show off their vocal abilities can sing karaoke.

By the way, I noticed that the Chinese are extremely vocal. And they sing mostly some soulful lyrical songs. Victoria Square, or rather what is underneath it, is known as the largest shopping area in Dalian.

In front of the local parliament building lies People's Square. Until 1955, it had a different name - Stalin Square. Here stood a tall monument to the liberating soldiers. But after the deterioration of Soviet-Chinese relations, the square was renamed. And some time ago the monument was moved to a new location - to Port Arthur.

The Chinese come to People's Square not to rally and march, but to fly kites and admire the fountains. In general, Dalian squares are created and intended for recreation.

One of these favorite vacation spots for city residents is Xinghai Square. This is the largest city square in all of Asia. Its area is 600 thousand square meters. m. It was built in 1997 to commemorate the return of Hong Kong to China.

The square has two diameters - large and small. The small diameter is 199.9 m, and the large external one is 239.9 m. These figures are not accidental and mark the year of Dalian’s centenary - 1999 and 2399 - the year of its 500th anniversary.

In the middle of the square rises a decorative Huabiao column with a bas-relief symbolizing.

Its height is 19 meters 97 centimeters, diameter is 1,997 meters. These numbers are reminiscent of the number "1997" - the year of Hong Kong's return to China. A dragon is carved on the pillar, and at its base there are 8 more dragons, symbolizing the development of the nation - the descendants of the dragon.

On the area surrounding the monument, the traditional symbols of the Chinese horoscope are engraved - 12 animals and their corresponding years. You need to find your year, stand on it and make a wish. The Chinese are confident that it will definitely come true.

At the other end of the square there is another monument - a giant white stone open book, erected in honor of the centenary of Dalian and symbolizing all the historical events that its history has contained.

A road called “the road of a thousand steps” leads to this monument. It contains the footprints of ordinary Dalian residents, each of whom paid 1000 yuan to literally leave their mark on the history of the city.

In general, several new squares have appeared in the city in recent years. For example, Olympic Square in front of the local stadium. And for the city’s centennial anniversary, the “Sea Melody Square” appeared on the shores of the Yellow Sea.

In the center of the square stands a futuristic steel structure in the shape of a dragon. And there was some symbolism here.

The length of the structure is 19.9 meters, height is 9.9 meters. The numbers symbolize 1999 - the year of the centenary of Dalian and the creation of the square itself. There are numerous sculptures on the square that tourists love to take pictures with.

Here you can also feed the pigeons, ride bicycles, and watch the seals splashing in the pool.

Melody of the Sea Square is an indispensable object of visit for all wedding processions and excursion routes. By the way, in Dalyan there is even a separate bus route that passes through all the city squares.

Chinese-Russian health resort

The symbol of Dalian is a building in the shape of a soccer ball. In general, Dalian is a football city. The local team regularly wins the national championship. The city's former mayor Bo Xilai once jokingly said that Dalian's youth play football well because the city has high standards of living and good health indicators.

And Mr. Bo is absolutely right. The health of the local residents is really fine. Dalian is the cleanest and greenest city in China, which was recognized even by the United Nations, which in 1999 awarded Dalian the highest UN environmental award, the Global 500. Dalian became the first city in China to receive this award.

39% of the city is occupied by green park areas. This is 15% more than the standard for large and medium-sized cities in China. There is a sea of ​​flowers and greenery everywhere. And every year in Dalian, when the city parks are in bloom, the Spring Flower Festival is held.

Dalyan has many beaches - it’s a seaside city after all. However, sunbathing is not customary among the Chinese. They come to the sea to sit on the shore, relax, and collect starfish and seaweed. In China, the fashion is for “white” people with light skin color. As a rule, foreign tourists sunbathe and swim, among whom the vast majority are Russians.

Our compatriots go to Dalian not only to relax, but also to receive medical treatment. In China and beyond, this city is known for its medical centers. Dalian is simply predisposed to be a health resort. The climate here is therapeutic: summers are warm, but not hot, and winters are mild and warm. Relaxing nature. Plus there are many qualified doctors. By the way, at one time the country’s first president, Boris Yeltsin, came to Dalian to improve his health.

Not the biggest, but the best

A quarter of a century ago, this city on the shores of the Yellow Sea stood out among other Chinese cities only for its non-Chinese architecture. Economically, it was a lopsided city. The entire economy revolved around the seaport. Dalian is northeastern China's gateway to the outside world, the second largest port after Shanghai, receiving ships from more than a hundred countries. 13% of the local population works at the port.

Everything changed on September 25, 1984. On this day, the Dalian Techno-Economic Development Zone was approved by a resolution of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, becoming China's first free economic zone. This gave a powerful impetus for development.

For 20 years now, Dalian has been one of the most dynamically developing Chinese cities, where satisfied and happy people live. The annual per capita income in Dalian is 13 thousand yuan or $1,900 - one of the highest in the country. There are many wealthy Chinese among Dalian residents. They live in the most prestigious houses in the Xinghai Square area. But even average Dalian residents live quite decently.

Dalian is not. There is no usual Chinese flavor here. This city is more similar to than another Chinese city. The same skyscrapers, the same cleanliness on the streets. And also a certain European gloss. Actually, this is exactly how Russian designers saw Dalian a hundred years ago – European.

Dalian is one of the few Chinese cities where history and modernity are organically intertwined. A tram from the beginning of the last century runs along the city streets. There is no metro in Dalian, a population of 6 million. But local residents get along just fine without it - the existing public transport is quite enough. A ride there costs only 1 yuan. But many people prefer to take a taxi. What is also surprising is the lack of traffic jams.

In contrast to the same, Dalian at night is not impressive. Skyscraper office buildings surprise with the complete absence of light in the windows. Such gloomy giants stand along the road. Apparently, Chinese businessmen, unlike their Japanese colleagues, do not stay late at work in the evenings. All life is in full swing on the street at dusk. Dalian residents drink beer and eat barbecue with friends, walk along the pedestrian street, and wander through numerous shopping centers and squares.

By the way, the lack of bright illumination in Dalian is due to the usual savings. Electricity in China is expensive. When ex-chairman of the People's Republic of China Jiang Zemin came to Dalian several years ago, the city bloomed with a billion colorful lights for him. However, as soon as Jiang left, the illumination was cut in half. You can walk along darkened streets without fear for your own life and health. There is no crime here as such.

The showcase of modern China is the country's largest city, Shanghai. It is believed that Dalian is 20 years behind Shanghai in its development. Somehow it’s hard to believe. However, Dalian residents are not particularly offended. The principle of development of Dalian, proclaimed by the municipal government, is: “Not the biggest city, but the best.” And it is true!

What to see in Dalyan?

Xinghai Park

Large recreation area: numerous gardens, attractions, beaches, an outdoor water park, the largest aquarium in China.

Xinghai Square

The largest city square in Asia. Built in 1997 to commemorate the return of Hong Kong to China.

Street of Russian flavor

Houses in Russian style, Russian restaurants, cafes, clubs, shops.

Sea Melody Square

Beautiful walking area, beach

Zhongshan Square, or Music Square

The oldest and most beautiful square in Dalian.

Shell Museum

Dalian Zoo

Dalian Disneyland

Entertainment complex for children. Six entertainment zones - a magical forest, a metal factory, a mysterious desert, a crazy city, a wedding castle, and a story castle.

Beaches of Dalian

Central City Beach, Shell Beach, Government Beach, Golden Stone Beach, Star Beach

Water parks in Dalian

Water Paradise, an indoor water park in the tourism development zone, Mount Arbin Water Park

The most famous medical centers in Dalian:

Dalian Hospital of Chinese Medicine "Shengu", health center "Horizon", health center "Lotus", international health complex "Japanese hydrotherapy", medical center Coast "Golden Stone".

Festivals

Every year the following events are held in Dalian:

Flower Festival (late May – early June)

International carnival – celebration of the opening of the beach season (July-August)

International Beer Festival (late July-early August)

International Fashion Festival (mid-September)

International Race Walking Festival (May-June)

International Fair for Software and Information Services (June)

International Auto Show (August)

China is one of the largest countries in the world. It will take a lot of time to carefully examine all its interesting places. Among the attractions of China there are many world-famous cultural, historical, natural and architectural sites. The country is so diverse that the southern regions are completely different from the northern ones. Just like the western parts are different from the eastern parts. In this article, we tried to highlight the most interesting attractions in China that any tourist visiting this beautiful and diverse country should visit.

1. The Great Wall of China

When traveling around China, the first thing you need to do is visit the Great Wall of China. It is one of mankind's greatest man-made structures, rivaled only by the Great Pyramid of Giza. Of incredible length, it was located along the northern borders of the country and served to protect the vast border from surprise attacks by less civilized nomads from the north. Most of it was erected by ordinary people during the reign of the Ming Dynasty in the 12th-15th centuries. Several sections of the wall are accessible to tourists, but the most popular and visited is located just 70 kilometers north of Beijing. There are plenty of sightseeing buses going in this direction. In the middle of the last century, this site was specially restored for tourists. And in 1988, the entire Great Wall of China was included in the UNESCO heritage list.

2. Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is one of the most popular attractions in China. It is located almost in the very center and occupies 72 hectares of land. It is very easy to compare it with the Vatican. The Forbidden City, from the very beginning of its construction in 1406, served as the residence of the ruling dynasties. First it was the Ming Dynasty, and later it was replaced by the Qing Dynasty. The rulers in a very short time erected protected buildings for themselves, completely separated from the general city. Reliably protected, they could rule the country for 500 years without fear for their safety. It was only when the complex was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 1987 that access was opened to ordinary tourists from all over the world. 980 buildings built using wooden technology are simply impossible to inspect at one time. But the most interesting things are always available.

3. Big Buddha in Hong Kong

This grandiose statue is located on Lantau Island and is different from other similar ones. The fact is that in Chinese religion it is customary to install Buddha statues strictly looking towards the south. And the architectural creation at the Poulinsim Monastery looks to the north, as if blessing the city and its inhabitants. Situated at an altitude of 482 meters, the statue rises an additional 34 meters, and has an approximate weight of about 250 tons. In order to get to it, you will first need to stand in line for the funicular, then climb 268 steps, and only then will you be able to touch the statue of the deity. The statue looks especially impressive on a cloudy day, when the Buddha breaks the clouds with his body and the sun's rays, suddenly appearing in the clearing, cover the head of the statue with a halo of glow.

4. Temple of Heaven

If you are already in the capital of China, Beijing, then be sure to take the time to visit one of the best buildings from the Ming Dynasty. The dynasty built many interesting and noteworthy objects, but the Temple of Heaven is different from all of them. The fact is that every year the emperor simply had to visit the temple in person. On the day of the winter solstice, he came to the building with one purpose - to ask the gods to send a decent harvest next season. If the harvest was meager, or it was not enough for the whole country, then the gods would thus become angry with the heir, and thus show that the time had come to change the ruler. The interior of this Chinese landmark is incredibly beautiful. Its unusual and bright mosaic will make you admire it for an hour without taking your eyes off it.

5. Yunhegong

Yonghegong Temple is located in the northern part of the Forbidden City. It was built for a young future ruler named Yun. Literally, the name of the building can be translated as “palace of harmony.” Indeed, when Yun came to power, he tried to lead the country to prosperity and well-being, and not start wars with its neighbors. The temple was originally different from all others at that time. After all, it was the court temple of the emperor himself and performed the role of all the ceremonies that were held in it by the ruling dynasty.

Emperors have not ruled the country for a long time, and the temple and its monks still perform rituals and live in this ancient wooden monastery. Tourists are allowed to enter the temple any day during daylight hours. They can see almost all the buildings and take part in prayers.

6. Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army is the most interesting historical landmark in China. She was found not long ago. The legend of the existence of the army was always heard by the entire population of China, but even scientists did not strongly believe in it. And only by luck in 1974, when local villagers were trying to dig a well, they came across one of the cells in which the soldiers were imprisoned. These warriors, along with horses and carts, were created for one purpose: so that the emperor who ruled China 2,200 years ago could feel secure in the afterlife.

The Terracotta Army is nothing more than an unusual burial place of Qin Shahuangdi. The statues of warriors were not made in one place, but were brought here from all over China. Made from clay and subsequently fired, they have unique facial features and were decorated with paints at the future burial site.

7. Gongwanfu

The next popular tourist destination in China is the Gongwangfu Park Complex. If you are interested in leisurely walks through the palace parks and are interested in the national traditions of the country, then this place awaits you at any convenient time. The last owner of the complex was “Grand Duke Gong” Aishingyoro Ishinyu. Being a wealthy aristocrat, he spared no expense in building a garden that very harmoniously combines green trees and the smells of exotic flowers, unusual compositions made of natural stone and the murmur of water in the clearest ponds. In the evening, you can watch how traditional Chinese lanterns are lit, designed to attract wealth and prosperity to the home. You can also go into the palace itself and make sure that its owner really lived in luxury and wealth. There is also a real working Chinese theater on the territory.

8. Beijing Zoo

Beijing Zoo is a place where you can meet animals, birds and fish that live throughout China. The symbol of the entire Chinese people, the panda, attracts the most visitors. And not only foreign tourists, but also local animal lovers. But it is enough to take a few steps forward to see for yourself that the zoo is huge, with a wide variety of animal species represented. Here in cages you can see the Manchurian tiger, known for its wild character, and the Mongolian wild horse, with the help of which the country’s provinces were conquered countless times. The zoo is home to a wide variety of birds: tropical, sea and land. For a European tourist this is a real paradise.

9. Peace Park in Beijing

The Peace Park located in Beijing will allow any tourist to take a high-speed trip to all the main attractions of the world. The fact is that in the park there are small copies of the most interesting miniatures collected in one place. It will be especially interesting for those tourists who will be able to see the religious building from their own country. The park contains Egyptian pyramids from Giza, London's Big Ben, and for lovers of Paris, the Eiffel Tower rises. Those who have not yet visited Rome will be able to see the Colosseum, and the Taj Mahal will give an idea of ​​​​the vibrant India. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is tilted exactly as many degrees as it leans towards the ground in reality. Any tourist visiting this landmark of China will leave with a great mood and wonderful photographs.

10. Taoist Park Heavenly Grottoes

If you, as a curious tourist, are brought to Hainan Island, then the first thing you need to do is visit the Taoist Heavenly Grottoes Park. Even if you are a follower of a completely different religion, this will not prevent you from enjoying the most beautiful views of the man-made park. According to Taoist philosophy, the grottoes that cover almost the entire island are nothing more than the entrance to the other world, and wandering through them, you can easily find yourself in a completely different place. But still, the majority of tourists on the island are pilgrims who come from all over the world to gain enlightenment.

Also, for lovers of mysteries, the park has an interesting task - to find the entrance to the Great Dangtian Grotto. The entrance to the small one has long been known to everyone, and is marked with a special mark. But the entrance to the big one was lost long ago, and has not been found to this day.

11. Ocean Park in Hong Kong

If you get tired of endless trips to the sights of China and want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of celebration and entertainment for a while, be sure to check out the ocean park in Hong Kong. It rightfully ranks as the best amusement park in the whole country, and can boast of the most interesting programs. Divided into two parts, it harmoniously combines both of them. On the first tier there is a museum of extinct animals, where skeletons of not only dinosaurs, but also sea monsters are presented, as well as a thematic theater on this topic. At the second level, tourists will be treated to an incredible number of different attractions, interesting not only for adults, but also for children. You can easily lose track of time in the park and spend almost the entire day there.

12. Zhangjiajie

Even if you are not a big fan of nature, this natural attraction of China will radically change your attitude towards them. The fact is that Zhangjiajie National Park is on the list of the most visited and beautiful natural reserves in the world. The park looks decent at any time of the year, and we recommend visiting it regardless of the circumstances. Even in winter, when the mountains and paths are covered with snow and ice, the park attracts the most desperate to capture the most interesting landscapes in the camera frame.

13. Jiuzhaigou

Another natural attraction, looking at which, right now you want to buy tickets to China and go see it with your own eyes. Don’t the photographs lie, because in fact, there are no such beautiful landscapes on our planet. But they do happen, and this is the clearest proof of this. The very inaccessible mountainous region was opened to the whole world only in 1972, and ten years later, thanks to the efforts of the local authorities, the valley acquired the status of a national park. The name can be translated as a village of nine villages, 7 of which can be visited in person. The last two no longer exist. Since the residents were prohibited from cultivating the land, they came up with another way of subsistence - selling souvenirs of their own production to tourists.

14. Potala Palace

Potala Palace, located on the mountain of the same name, is the highest palace in all of China. Its walls rise at an altitude of 3767 meters above sea level. The first wooden structure was erected here in the 7th century, since then the palace has constantly increased in size. But a century and a half later, lightning severely damaged the palace, and the war with its neighbors finally finished it off. They forgot about him for 900 years. And only in the 17th century it was decided to restore the palace, but from stone. It was by order of the Dalai Lama that the palace received a second life, and after the completion of work it served as one of the residences of future successors. In 1994, the palace was included in the UNESCO heritage list and became accessible to the public, making it one of the most visited attractions in China.

15. National Museum of China

According to official statistics, the National Museum in Beijing is the most visited museum in the world. The history of the entire state for 5,000 years is collected within its walls. Here you can see more than half a million different artifacts. The museum’s special pride is the most valuable find that local archaeologists were able to find - the “Yuanmou Man,” whose age is about one million years. Also in the museum rooms are a variety of coins that were in use in the country during different periods of time and many other interesting exhibits. If you follow a specially designed excursion program, you can trace how China has developed from ancient times to the present day. This is a very interesting place to visit in China.

During an economic downturn, we are largely dependent on price levels and plan holiday expenses in advance. China has many interesting cities with a twist, so we have selected for you the most popular destinations and the most exciting places that represent the best value for money.

The best cities of China on the country map

Beijing - the ancient and modern capital of the Celestial Empire

Beijing has been the capital of China for over 700 years and has a rich history, both ancient and modern.

Beijing is the best city in China, where you can get acquainted with the heritage of the imperial past of the eastern power.

The most famous monuments of Chinese antiquity are located in Beijing:

• The great Wall of China;
• The Forbidden City is the largest of all the surviving ancient imperial palace complexes in the world;
• The Temple of Heaven is a fascinating building of imperial cult;
• The Summer Palace has a beautiful garden;
• Tiananmen Square, famous for the fact that it was here that the People's Republic of China was proclaimed. The ceremonial birth of the new state was marked by Chairman Mao, whose body still lies in his mausoleum.

Beijing has a glorious past, but it is by no means a city stuck in a bygone era. Side by side with Beijing's old crimson palace complex are modern buildings: the ultra-modern Olympic Village with the Bird's Nest stadium and water complex, brilliant shopping centers and a colorful entertainment center by Lake Houhai. Since Beijing is the capital of the Celestial Empire, getting here is not difficult; airlines operate regular flights here from around the world. Affordable prices for Kiyavia air tickets allow you to see the world and appreciate its beauty.

Despite all the changes in recent years, the oldest quarters of the city (hutongs) have preserved the traditional way of life of the Chinese. It is still interesting to stroll through the labyrinth of narrow streets and visit the old, small, cozy courtyards of houses. A rickshaw tour through the Hutongs will allow vacationers to experience the charm of old Beijing.

Shanghai is the most prosperous city in China

Shanghai is China's largest city and exudes a positive atmosphere with a strong vitality that rivals that of New York or Paris. As one of the world's leading economic and business centers, Shanghai showcases luxurious modern architecture in the Pudong Economic Zone with stunning night shows along the Huangpu River embankment as dramatic lights and water jets dance in unison.

Shanghai's colonial heritage, combined with modern architecture, creates a unique culture that represents a fusion of East and West. The Bund, the city's waterfront, provides a striking illustration of the harmonious blend of Eastern and Western cultures through its display of a collection of colonial architecture and modern, respectable structures.

Unlike Beijing, Shanghai is not filled to the brim with old great attractions. Apart from Yu Yuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple and Huangpu River Cruise, there are no significant tourist attractions here. However, the beauty of the modern city impresses everyone who comes to Shanghai.

Top Cities in China – Xi'an

Xi'an is the window of Ancient Chinese civilization, it is noteworthy that it was in this city that the Terracotta Army was found.

Xi'an is the second ancient Chinese capital (after Beijing). This city was, in fact, the center of a unified China in 221 BC. e., during the reign of the Qin Dynasty. It was also the capital during the golden era of the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) and the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Thus, Xi'an is a blessed city with many precious relics and historical sites. The highlight and real discovery of this place was the Terracotta Army, a contender for the title of one of the eight wonders of the world. In addition, there are two interesting Buddhist Pagodas (Great Wild Goose Pagoda and Small Wild Goose Pagoda), the Great Mosque and the Ancient City Wall.

Xi'an has long been the starting point of the Silk Road, an ancient trade route that stretched from Asia to Europe. This fact played an important role in ancient times in the economic and cultural exchange between East and West.

Xi'an is one of the most popular tourist destinations among foreign tourists and is therefore included in the itineraries of many tour packages.

Amazing Chinese city Guilin

Guilin, with its marvelous limestone landscapes, is known as one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The city, located in a picturesque location among lush vegetation on the banks of the river, looks surprisingly harmonious.

During his visit to the area, former US President Nixon was so inspired by the beauty of Guilin's natural landscape that he remarked: “I have traveled to more than eighty countries and visited over a hundred cities. But in China, I discovered that no city can surpass the beauty of Guilin.” Guilin is one of the best cities in China.

Hong Kong is the most luxurious city on Earth

Hong Kong is a city that is unlike any other place in the world. As one of the world's most important economic and financial centers, Hong Kong enjoys all the benefits of a dynamic and vibrant metropolis. Although he is probably Chinese, he is still endowed with an enviable degree of independence.

Hong Kong is a melting pot of cultures. Remnants of the colonial past and British culture mixed with Chinese traditions have had a very positive influence on the appearance of the city. Once known as an exotic port for eastern trade, it has become famous in the cinema.

Hong Kong is a world-famous shopping paradise, attracting visitors from all over the world with its tourist-friendly atmosphere and numerous options, promotions and innovations. The huge shopping malls of the Central, Admiralty districts and the street market in Causeway Bay have become reasons for many travelers to visit Hong Kong.

Hong Kong also has amazing beaches and natural attractions. Words are powerless to convey the essence of Hong Kong. If you want to appreciate this “East London”, visit Hong Kong in person, this metropolis will be a real revelation for you.

Hangzhou is almost paradise

When Marco Polo came to Hangzhou in the 13th century, he declared it “the most beautiful and elegant city in the world.” The “heavenly” beauty of Hangzhou every year attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists to the country, who flock to this paradise to enjoy the harmony of the surrounding world: the calm surface of the lake, beautiful gardens, swimming pools, luxurious temples and tea houses by the water.

There are many famous historical and cultural sites in the surrounding area of ​​West Lake, such as Lingyin Scenic Area and Six Harmonies Pagoda. You can also combine a tour to Hangzhou with a visit to the nearby ancient water cities of Xitang and Wuzhen.

The most popular souvenirs brought by tourists from Hangzhou are silk and tea. It's no surprise that the China National Silk Museum and the National Tea Museum are located in Hangzhou. At the tea plantations located in the mountains near the western lake, visitors can learn about tea processing procedures and participate in a traditional tea ceremony.

Chengdu - Home of Pandas

Chengdu - The birthplace of pandas. Although giant pandas are found in zoos in various places throughout China, such as Beijing Zoo and Shanghai Zoo, the best place to see pandas is Chengdu. Here, visitors can view the breeding conditions of giant pandas, or take part in a volunteer program in Panda Valley in Dujiangyan. In addition, Chengdu has many historical sites such as the Sanxingdui Ruins and Qingyang Palace.

Chengdu, which is more than 2,000 years old, is a cultural center with centuries-old colorful culture of religious and civil significance.

Huangshan - majestic beauty

Huangshan (Yellow Mountains) is certainly a very famous and photographed mountainous region in China. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.

The majestic natural beauty of Huangshan features breathtaking cliffs covered with evergreen pine trees that rise amid a veil of thick fog. The picture is so amazing that it seems like an unreal scenery from legends. Moreover, it is said that a powerful yellow emperor once lived in these places.

The Yellow Mountains are a natural landmark in China. Entirely covered with vegetation, they have bizarre rugged shapes. The clouds hang low here and there are hot springs gushing out of the ground.

Lhasa - gateway to Tibet

Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, is the gateway to one of the most mysterious and isolated places on the planet. Tibet is a world of hermits and the dream of any traveler. This place is the center of Tibetan cultural and religious life. "Lhasa" is the Tibetan "place of the gods", it may not be true, but it is considered to be so.

Most tourists enter Tibet through Lhasa. Outside the city there are many natural wonders and shrines such as amazing lakes and Mount Everest.

Suzhou - an elegant settlement on the water

Suzhou - traditional Chinese gardens on the water, harmoniously combining man-made landscapes with natural landscapes.

The water supply system of Chinese villages can be called the quintessential way of life in a traditional Chinese village. Centuries-old wooden houses literally line the canals, while arched stone bridges and people in bamboo hats on sampan boats add to the unique charm of Suzhou.

You can get to Suzhou quite quickly, the journey takes only 30 minutes by high-speed train from Shanghai or 5 hours from Beijing. Therefore it will be quite convenient within one tour in China combine Suzhou, Beijing and Shanghai.

There are many options for traveling around the Middle Kingdom, and you can always plan a great vacation and an amazing trip to China!

The ancient town of Fenghuang is located in the southwestern corner of the Chinese province of Hunan, at the foot of a mountain on the banks of the Totjiang River. The town is surprisingly well preserved, it has not been touched by modernization; many ethnic languages, customs, and types of art can be found here.
Also in the town you can see ancient buildings in the architectural styles of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The ancient town has preserved the layout and original appearance of the times of the Ming Empire of the 14th century and the Qing Empire of the 17th century. In the old quarter, more than 200 ancient residential buildings, about 20 large and small streets, 10 ancient parks and alleys, as well as the walls of the ancient city, gates with towers, wells, bridges, temples, etc. And all this is almost in its original form.

1. The town of Fenghuang is located in what was once a wild border region. Weiyang County was founded in the second year of Chuigong, during the reign of Empress Wu (686 AD).


2. In the third year of the Jiatai period of the Song Empire, a clay town was founded here.


3. After 450 years, it was replaced by a brick city, and ancient Fenghuang began to take shape.


4. In 1715, during the reign of Emperor Kangxi, all the stone buildings in the city were completed.


5. Fenghuang is located in a remote mountainous region.


6. The red stone city walls run along an undulating mountain landscape, through rocky outcroppings and valleys, while rivers meander along mountain corridors before flowing through the city.


7. The majestic and tall city towers stand opposite the four gates, and palace-like halls and residences, exquisite courtyards and houses of different national styles are evenly distributed on both sides of the streets.


8. Dozens of stone-paved alleys between houses demonstrate the continuity of many generations of people living here, who go about their business along them every day.


9. Along the river, directly opposite the picturesque Nanhua Mountains, there are wooden houses on stilts.


10. Due to its unique geographical location, Fenghuang has never suffered from wars or natural disasters.

11. There have been many wars in the region, from the Miao uprising in 1795 to the Getong Rebellion in 1937, but none of them affected the town.


12. Even during the war against Japanese occupation, Fenghuang Town was not damaged by Japanese invasions or bombing.


13. In 1949, Fenghuang was peacefully liberated from occupation.


14. Over the next 50 years, the economic crisis that struck other counties also spared this sleepy ancient town.


15. Local people value their heritage and cultural treasures.


16. This is why local authorities carefully monitor all construction projects.


17. Thus, the original beauty and traditions of the ancient city remain intact.


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There are a great many cities in China that would be interesting for tourists to visit; making a choice can sometimes be difficult. In the cities of China you will find exhibits of spiritual and cultural heritage, and the landscapes that open up will forever remain in your memory. For decades now, China has been one of the most popular tourist destinations. I suggest you familiarize yourself with the ranking of the most popular cities among tourists in China.

1. Beijing

Beijing is the pearl of the East, the capital of the People's Republic of China, the place of international trade, and the political center of China. Beijing is a modern city in every sense of the word, but its residents remain connected to their cultural past and honor the traditions that make China an exceptional place. Beijing is home to many of the city's most famous landmarks, such as the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City, to name a few.

2. Xi'an

For over 3,000 years, the city of Xi'an was the capital of China, ruled by 13 dynasties and 73 different emperors during its heyday. The region experienced several cultural revolutions and is considered the epitome of the Chinese Empire. People from all over the world come to Xi'an to see the famous Terracotta Army, the Great Wild Goose Pagoda and thousands of other ancient artifacts, museums and relics.

3. Shanghai

Shanghai is the most developed of all modern cities in China. Prosperous infrastructure and advanced technologies ensure the active progress of the city. Home to approximately 23 million people, the region has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It's fascinating to see how east and west meet each other here. Shanghai is a cosmopolitan city.

4. Guilin

Guilin is one of the largest cities in China, located on the banks of the Li River, which is famous for its beauty, which attracts tourists here. The city is surrounded on all sides by karst mountains, merging on the horizon with the green waters of rivers and lakes. Guilin is surrounded by forest, so you should not travel far beyond its borders. You will fall in love with this city when you see the beautiful limestone mountains, ancient Chinese boats that glide on the water, slowly disappearing into the fog.

Once the city was one of the main ports where caravans traveling along the Silk Road sailed, then the city lost its importance, losing leadership to Shanghai. Today it is a modern port. Most often, tourists visit the Buddhist islands of Putuoshan, gardens and squares.

6. Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, this place is famous for its magnificent landscapes, waterfalls, azure and emerald lakes. The park's territory covers 72,000 hectares, including mountains whose peaks are always covered with snow. Jiuzhaigou is home to many rare protected animals, such as pandas. Even though the area is poor, you should still stop and see the life of Chinese villages, it is very interesting.

7. Qingdao

The city is known among local residents as the Switzerland of China; Teutonic motifs in the architecture are clearly visible here. The city has been popular among tourists for many years; travelers are attracted here by its magnificent beaches and local beer - Qingdao. Clean air comes from the mountains and it is quite easy to breathe, unlike other Chinese cities.

It’s quite difficult to choose which city is worth visiting, but we hope the ranking of seven cities helped you. Perhaps we have discovered something new for you. What else can be added to this list in your opinion?