Highlights
Jiuzhaigou
Highlights
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Shuzheng Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the beneath branch is the Shuzheng Valley, while the right is the Rize Valley and the left is the Zechawa Vallay.
Rize Valley Tour Route
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Shuzheng Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the beneath branch is the Shuzheng Valley, while the right is the Rize Valley and the left is the Zechawa Vallay.
Rize Valley Tour Route
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Lijiang
Highlights
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
The Ancient Town of Lijiang
In the vast China, there are four intact-preserved ancient towns, and the ancient town of Lijiang is a shinning member of it. Unlike the other ancient towns, the Lijiang ancient town is open without any town walls that will make the town more mysterious, while the blue marble stone pathways winding along the town would bring you back to the history.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Hailed as the Oriental Grand Canyon, the Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiaoxia) is, to some extent, more attractive than the Grand Canyon. It is the most precipitous gorge in the vast China with an altitude difference of 3000 meters that is 600 meters more than that of the Grand Canyon. Therefore, the waterfalls here are amazingly marvelous, the stones here are surprisingly bizarre and landscapes on the cliffs here are spectacularly wonderful, all of which make Tiger Leaping Gorge a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
Tiger Leaping Gorge with a splendid view of the swift turbulent current of the Golden River is formed through constant cutting by the waters between Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Mountain. Spanning 17 kilometers long, the gorge, consists of the Upper Gorge, the Middle Gorge and the Lower Gorge, drops about 300 meters in a series of 18 rapids. The Lower Gorge is the most awe - inspiring part of all. The gorge, where the Golden Sand River pounds furiously at its rocky shores in an awesome fashion, sending up skilful of white froth, is a dream place for adventurers.
Seen from the bridge, the marvelous geological wonder, two huge mountains leaning close to each other and a large volume of fast moving water between them cutting deeper and deeper into the bottom of the gorge, will be more splendid. In addition, there is a drop of 3000 meters to the water, a beautiful and surprising place to go for photography.
Embraced by the arms of the picturesque Cangshan Mountain and guarded by an 8-meter-tall and 3.5-kilometer-long wall, the 600-year-old city of Dali was first built in 1683 and is characterized by the ancient stonewalls, grey tiled roofs, doors and windows carved with dragon and phoenix partners and gardens of varying sizes. The entire city is covered by a maze of streams, fed by runoffs from the Cangshan Mountain. Hence, the saying the gurgling of water can be heard in every house and flowers are planted in every family.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 50 CNY
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang City
Transportation: Bus from Lijiang Bus Station and taxi will bring you here.
Lugu Lake
Lying in the flourishing forests far away from the pollution, Lugu Lake, covers 50 square kilometers with thousands square kilometers of lawns, is like a pearl inlayed in the plateau. With seven islands on the lake, the largest freshwater lake in Sichuan, seen from a bird’s eye of view, looks like a flying eagle with wings spreading.
Yufeng Monastery (Yufeng Si )
Built at the foot of the Yufeng Mountain in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), the Yufeng Monastery has experienced more than 400 years of history. What may amaze you most is the huge old camellia that planted in Ming Dynasty (1364-1644), 100 years earlier than the construction of the monastery. This camellia is praised as the King of the Camellia for the marvelous size of it.
From the beginning of the spring to the beginning of summer, the camellia will be fully blooming for 20 times without breaking off just like a peacock showing off her tail, and the amount of the flowers blooming at each time is more than 1000, therefore there are surprisingly 20,000 flowers blooming every year. This magic camellia is said to be improved through grafting, so the flowers blooming on this 2-meter-tall camellia are as large as a plate.
On the arrival of the spring, people will come all the way from near and far to have a close look at this huge camellia blooming under the reflecting of the gorgeous Yulong Mountain with the snow as the coat.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Yulong Mt., Lijiang City
Transportation: Taxi from Lijiang will bring you here.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xue Shan )
With an average altitude of 4000, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (yu long xue shan) is the wonderful place with marvelous spectacles in the challenging environment. Ganhaizi is a piece of vast grassland in the east with beautiful sceneries that provides a good angle for people to enjoy the entire sight of the Jade Dragon Snow Mt. White River, originates from the Jade Dragon Snow Mt., is a crystal-like river flowing along the Mt.. Yunshanping, a virgin forest with abundant rare natural resources, is the holy land of the Naxi people. All of them make Jade Dragon Snow Mountain a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
The mountains western flanks drop steeply to the Upper Yangtze River (Jinsha Jiang), helping to form magnificent, deep gorges, and the highest peak is Shanzidou. The summit, Shanzidou, is 5596 meters above sea level. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China.
She is a botanist's paradise and a "kingdom of medicinal materials". Of the 13,000 kinds of plants in Yunnan, more than half of them can be found on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as well as 400 types of trees in 20 primeval forest communities. From April to June the azaleas turn the mountain into a riot of brilliant color. In autumn, blue rough gentian flowers cover her marshlands. She is decorated with blooming flowers 10 months of the year.
The mountain is also a sanctuary for animals, many of them rare animals that live at different temperature levels. She is home to 30 kinds of animals protected by the state, such as the wild ass, the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, the lesser panda, the forest musk deer, the clouded leopard, the blood pheasant, the silver pheasant, and the spotted, yellowish civet cat.
She has attracted the attention of many scholars and travelers. Early in 1837, the French writer Bacier introduced Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in his acclaimed book "Universe". And seven years ago the chairman of the international Mountainous Region led a team to the mountain for field work.
In Lijiang City, you can have a magnificent view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the main peak thrust into the clouds, the Old Man Peak standing out on the right and Black Snow Peak on its left.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 16:00
Ticket Price:
190 CNY
80 CNY for the kids below 1.1 m
Location: 15 km away from the Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 7 (15 CNY) and taxi (100 CNY) will bring you here.
Baisha Mural
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
The mural group consists of more than 10 small groups, the amount of mural in all of which is up to 550. Those gorgeous murals with various styles, which are telling the stories of the religious belief and social life of the local, are a blooming intelligent show that you must visit.
Located in Baisha Township, 8km north of the seat of the Lijiang Naxi Nationality Autonomous County, the mural is a rich fusion that had resulted in a tremendously powerful art, heavy in spirit and awe-inspiring in its presentation of the mystical world. Dominated by black, silver, dark green, gold and red colors, the murals in the back hall, overlaid with centuries of brown soot, are bizarre, the scenes and figures, some still vivid in detail, are largely taken from Tibetan Buddhist iconography and include the wheel of life, judges of the underworld, the damned, titans and gods, Buddha and bodhisattvas. There are trigrams, lotus flowers and even Sanskrit inscriptions on the ceiling. The deliberate damage done to the paintings is apparent and terrible, but the loss of the irreplaceable wooden statuary that filled the temple, of which there is no trace, is even more tragic.
These mural paintings, with their fine and smooth lines, bright colors, vivid pattern and balanced and harmonious composition are a wonderful sight that is not only crucial to the history of Chinese painting, but also important to cultural heritage relics.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 40 CNY
Location: 12 km away from Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 6 from Lijiang will bring you here.
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
The Ancient Town of Lijiang
In the vast China, there are four intact-preserved ancient towns, and the ancient town of Lijiang is a shinning member of it. Unlike the other ancient towns, the Lijiang ancient town is open without any town walls that will make the town more mysterious, while the blue marble stone pathways winding along the town would bring you back to the history.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Hailed as the Oriental Grand Canyon, the Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiaoxia) is, to some extent, more attractive than the Grand Canyon. It is the most precipitous gorge in the vast China with an altitude difference of 3000 meters that is 600 meters more than that of the Grand Canyon. Therefore, the waterfalls here are amazingly marvelous, the stones here are surprisingly bizarre and landscapes on the cliffs here are spectacularly wonderful, all of which make Tiger Leaping Gorge a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
Tiger Leaping Gorge with a splendid view of the swift turbulent current of the Golden River is formed through constant cutting by the waters between Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Mountain. Spanning 17 kilometers long, the gorge, consists of the Upper Gorge, the Middle Gorge and the Lower Gorge, drops about 300 meters in a series of 18 rapids. The Lower Gorge is the most awe - inspiring part of all. The gorge, where the Golden Sand River pounds furiously at its rocky shores in an awesome fashion, sending up skilful of white froth, is a dream place for adventurers.
Seen from the bridge, the marvelous geological wonder, two huge mountains leaning close to each other and a large volume of fast moving water between them cutting deeper and deeper into the bottom of the gorge, will be more splendid. In addition, there is a drop of 3000 meters to the water, a beautiful and surprising place to go for photography.
Embraced by the arms of the picturesque Cangshan Mountain and guarded by an 8-meter-tall and 3.5-kilometer-long wall, the 600-year-old city of Dali was first built in 1683 and is characterized by the ancient stonewalls, grey tiled roofs, doors and windows carved with dragon and phoenix partners and gardens of varying sizes. The entire city is covered by a maze of streams, fed by runoffs from the Cangshan Mountain. Hence, the saying the gurgling of water can be heard in every house and flowers are planted in every family.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 50 CNY
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang City
Transportation: Bus from Lijiang Bus Station and taxi will bring you here.
Lugu Lake
Lying in the flourishing forests far away from the pollution, Lugu Lake, covers 50 square kilometers with thousands square kilometers of lawns, is like a pearl inlayed in the plateau. With seven islands on the lake, the largest freshwater lake in Sichuan, seen from a bird’s eye of view, looks like a flying eagle with wings spreading.
Yufeng Monastery (Yufeng Si )
Built at the foot of the Yufeng Mountain in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), the Yufeng Monastery has experienced more than 400 years of history. What may amaze you most is the huge old camellia that planted in Ming Dynasty (1364-1644), 100 years earlier than the construction of the monastery. This camellia is praised as the King of the Camellia for the marvelous size of it.
From the beginning of the spring to the beginning of summer, the camellia will be fully blooming for 20 times without breaking off just like a peacock showing off her tail, and the amount of the flowers blooming at each time is more than 1000, therefore there are surprisingly 20,000 flowers blooming every year. This magic camellia is said to be improved through grafting, so the flowers blooming on this 2-meter-tall camellia are as large as a plate.
On the arrival of the spring, people will come all the way from near and far to have a close look at this huge camellia blooming under the reflecting of the gorgeous Yulong Mountain with the snow as the coat.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Yulong Mt., Lijiang City
Transportation: Taxi from Lijiang will bring you here.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xue Shan )
With an average altitude of 4000, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (yu long xue shan) is the wonderful place with marvelous spectacles in the challenging environment. Ganhaizi is a piece of vast grassland in the east with beautiful sceneries that provides a good angle for people to enjoy the entire sight of the Jade Dragon Snow Mt. White River, originates from the Jade Dragon Snow Mt., is a crystal-like river flowing along the Mt.. Yunshanping, a virgin forest with abundant rare natural resources, is the holy land of the Naxi people. All of them make Jade Dragon Snow Mountain a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
The mountains western flanks drop steeply to the Upper Yangtze River (Jinsha Jiang), helping to form magnificent, deep gorges, and the highest peak is Shanzidou. The summit, Shanzidou, is 5596 meters above sea level. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China.
She is a botanist's paradise and a "kingdom of medicinal materials". Of the 13,000 kinds of plants in Yunnan, more than half of them can be found on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as well as 400 types of trees in 20 primeval forest communities. From April to June the azaleas turn the mountain into a riot of brilliant color. In autumn, blue rough gentian flowers cover her marshlands. She is decorated with blooming flowers 10 months of the year.
The mountain is also a sanctuary for animals, many of them rare animals that live at different temperature levels. She is home to 30 kinds of animals protected by the state, such as the wild ass, the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, the lesser panda, the forest musk deer, the clouded leopard, the blood pheasant, the silver pheasant, and the spotted, yellowish civet cat.
She has attracted the attention of many scholars and travelers. Early in 1837, the French writer Bacier introduced Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in his acclaimed book "Universe". And seven years ago the chairman of the international Mountainous Region led a team to the mountain for field work.
In Lijiang City, you can have a magnificent view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the main peak thrust into the clouds, the Old Man Peak standing out on the right and Black Snow Peak on its left.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 16:00
Ticket Price:
190 CNY
80 CNY for the kids below 1.1 m
Location: 15 km away from the Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 7 (15 CNY) and taxi (100 CNY) will bring you here.
Baisha Mural
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
The mural group consists of more than 10 small groups, the amount of mural in all of which is up to 550. Those gorgeous murals with various styles, which are telling the stories of the religious belief and social life of the local, are a blooming intelligent show that you must visit.
Located in Baisha Township, 8km north of the seat of the Lijiang Naxi Nationality Autonomous County, the mural is a rich fusion that had resulted in a tremendously powerful art, heavy in spirit and awe-inspiring in its presentation of the mystical world. Dominated by black, silver, dark green, gold and red colors, the murals in the back hall, overlaid with centuries of brown soot, are bizarre, the scenes and figures, some still vivid in detail, are largely taken from Tibetan Buddhist iconography and include the wheel of life, judges of the underworld, the damned, titans and gods, Buddha and bodhisattvas. There are trigrams, lotus flowers and even Sanskrit inscriptions on the ceiling. The deliberate damage done to the paintings is apparent and terrible, but the loss of the irreplaceable wooden statuary that filled the temple, of which there is no trace, is even more tragic.
These mural paintings, with their fine and smooth lines, bright colors, vivid pattern and balanced and harmonious composition are a wonderful sight that is not only crucial to the history of Chinese painting, but also important to cultural heritage relics.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 40 CNY
Location: 12 km away from Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 6 from Lijiang will bring you here.
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
Guilin
Highlights
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument. 
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics. 
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Li River
Elephant Trunk Hill
Wave Subduing Hill
Reed Flute Cave
Seven Star Park
Yangshuo
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Li River
Elephant Trunk Hill
Wave Subduing Hill
Reed Flute Cave
Seven Star Park
Yangshuo
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Sanya
Highlights
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Dadonghai Beach
Dadong Beach is one of the most popular resorts where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle. Along this crescent beach, you can enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing, which would be more pleasant in winter when the average temperature is 20℃.
Diving in the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters, riding the motorboat flying on the beautiful sea, doing the barbeque along the soft beach or choosing the colorful shells, or making the sandcastle could be the coziest fair in the life.
As one part of the natural picture of scenery of Sanya, Dadong Beach, the beach with the well-developed facilities and the longest history in Sanya, appeals to a growing number of tourists from home and abroad. May this mysteriously peaceful beach be the number of your expeditions?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Price: 25 CNY for entrance
Transportation:
Bus No. 2, 4 and 8 from railway station
Bus No. 15 from Yalong Bay
Bus Ticket Fare: 2 CNY
Taxi can bring you here from city center (Car Fare: 10 CNY)
End of the World
End of the World was once a remote place in the ancient time where has rare communication with the other places in traffic, trade or information. Thus, the ecological environment here is well preserved, which is the very reason why it is so attractive. In the ancient time, some celebrities loved to come here for the peace and purity. At present, modern people come here for the same reason.
The gracious place where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle, is the ideal place for the newly wedded couples or love-struck pairs for honeymoon or romantic tour. The annual International Wedding Festival organized by the local government is hold here. The other reason people love to come here for romance is the romantic story prevails over the whole China.
Long ago, two passionate lovers from rival Li clans have pledged their love for one another here, promising that they would be together wherever they traveled. Constantly pursued by troops from both clans, they were forced to leap from this spot into the sea. The Chinese believe that two of the huge rocks that stand facing one another represent the two lovers. Today, Chinese couples still invoke this tale in their declarations of love, promising that they too, would go to the 'end of the world' for one another.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Ticket Price:
65 CNY for entrance
Half fare for the students and soldiers
Location: 23 km away from the city center of Sanya,
Transportation: you can come here by bus (5 CNY) or by taxi (30 CNY).
Luhuitou Peninsula
The Luhuitou Peninsula in the southernmost of the Sayan City is hailed as the Lovers’ Mountain. The Luhuitou Park is built on this peninsula, where the tourists, most of whom are the couples in deep love with each other or the people who want to find the true love here, spend their romantic tour.
With a height of 275 meters, Luhuitou-mountain is the best angle for sunrise and sunset as well as the unique place for the entire sight of the beautiful Sayan city. Covering 880,000 m2, Luhuitou Park is full of distinctive landscapes, such as the white Tide Viewing Pavillion, the red Sea Viewing Tower, the green Lover’s Island and the 12-meter-tall Stone Sculpture of a Deer etc. Owing to the pleasant weather, flowers are blossoming and trees are green for the year round in the park. What’s more, the treasure fruit--Red Coconut is the god-given feast for us. Why not come here to look your romantic memory?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00--22:00
Ticket Price:
45 CNY for the adult
Half fare for the kids between 1.2-1.4 meter
Location: 3 km away far the city center of Sanya city
Transportation: Bus No. 3 and 22 will bring you here.
Nanshan Temple
Nanshan is one of the birthplaces of the Buddhism in China, where many significant Buddhists have been here and left behind many Buddhist Classics, such as the Mother Buddha and the Buddhist Jianzhen from China and the Japanese monk Konghai. Therefore, local people built up the Nanshan Temple, covering 4,000,000 m2, in memory of the Buddhists who made great contribution to the development of Chinese Buddhist.
Nanshan Temple is built in the southernmost of Sayan city, facing the vast sea and surrounded by the green hills, in which there is a set of 33 sculptures of Mother Buddha and a 108-meter-tall sculpture of Mother Buddha. The magnificent temple is a treasure mine that full of many Buddhist cultural classics. An increasing number of tourists come here to experience the Buddhist culture, to taste the real monks’ vegetarian food, to photograph the grand sights or to participate in the Shadow Boxing practice in the morning.
Nanshan Tourism Zone, a five-star scenic spot, is a combination of culture and nature, where you can experience not only the Buddhist culture, but also the picturesque landscapes in which you may relax entirely and you can return to the pure nature life. Mild sunshine, pure sea, soft beach, blossoming flowers and green woods are waiting for you.
Note:
1. It is impolite to take photo with the Buddha.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
4. Enter the temple at the left side of the door and exit at the right side.
5. The goods in the market is cheaper than that in the temple entrance.
6. Don’t get annoyed, when the monks don’t greet back to you, because they pay little attention to the daily greeting.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price:
150CNY for entrance
48 CNY for the vegetarian banquet
Half fare for the students, soldiers and people over 70
20 CNY for the Golden Sculpture of the Mother Buddha
Location: 40 km away from city center of Sanya
Transportation: Shuttle Bus (9 CNY), Tour Bus (5 CNY) and Taxi (50-100CNY) will bring you here.
Yalong Bay
With a beach of 8 km long, as long as 3 times as that of Hawaii, Yalong Bay, the best bay in the world, is an attractive coastal resort in the southernmost of China. In the past years, numerous tourists have come here for the picturesque natural landscapes and praised the Yalong Bay as the Oriental Hawaii.
Yalong Bay possesses a 66 sq. km beach with a capacity of 100,000 tourists and a shallow stretching out into the sea 60 m far. Can you image how cheerful and amazing it is when you ran on the soft sand, choose the colorful shells, or make the sandcastle in the beach surrounded by clear water and green trees? Can you image how pleasant it is when you enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing in the mild sunshine, blue sky, clear water and gentle breeze? Can you image how exciting it is when you ride a motorboat flying on the sea or dive into the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters playing with the fish?
Pleasant weather, fresh air, peaceful sea, comfortable beach, green coconut woods and marvelous underwater sceneries, which are at their best from August to December, can be one of the resorts on your expedition list.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 8:00
Ticket price:
54 CNY for Center Square and Butterfly Valley
Half fare for the students and the local residences
Free for the kids below 1.3 meter and the people over 70 years
Location: 25 kilometers (16 miles) away from city center of Sanya.
Transportation:
Bus No. 15 Ticket fare 2 CNY
Tour Bus Ticket fare 10 CNY
Western Island
West Islet, the second largest island in Hainan Province, together with the East Islet forms a marvelous sight-- two Hawksbills moving ahead in the bluish waves. West Islet is 8 sea miles away from Sanya city, therefore the ecology is well protected from the pollution, which provides a purely natural resort for people.
Around the islet, the water is clean, air is fresh, sands are soft, trees are green, corals are gorgeous and fish are numerous, which is a god-given scenic spot where people will lose themselves in the colorful eco-entertainments, such as fishing, diving, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing and boating in the banana boat. In addition, the natural bath beach and ideal place for barbeque and campfire party are in the number of the amazing entertainment places.
Speaking of the souvenirs, the shells products are wise choices. There is a gallery for the exhibition of the colorful shells with various and huge shapes, some of which are from overseas, some are local and the other are man-made. Go to West Islet for your expedition of the natural landscapes and natural entertainments.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 17:30
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for entrance
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter
70 CNY for the local people, students in Hainan, soldiers and journalists.
Note: All the entertainments require the ticket for the entrance and the boat.
Location: 8 sea miles away from the Sanya city
Transportation: Taxi (35 CNY) will bring you to the West Islet Quay, and boats will bring you into the West Islet.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Dadonghai Beach
Dadong Beach is one of the most popular resorts where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle. Along this crescent beach, you can enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing, which would be more pleasant in winter when the average temperature is 20℃.
Diving in the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters, riding the motorboat flying on the beautiful sea, doing the barbeque along the soft beach or choosing the colorful shells, or making the sandcastle could be the coziest fair in the life.
As one part of the natural picture of scenery of Sanya, Dadong Beach, the beach with the well-developed facilities and the longest history in Sanya, appeals to a growing number of tourists from home and abroad. May this mysteriously peaceful beach be the number of your expeditions?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Price: 25 CNY for entrance
Transportation:
Bus No. 2, 4 and 8 from railway station
Bus No. 15 from Yalong Bay
Bus Ticket Fare: 2 CNY
Taxi can bring you here from city center (Car Fare: 10 CNY)
End of the World
End of the World was once a remote place in the ancient time where has rare communication with the other places in traffic, trade or information. Thus, the ecological environment here is well preserved, which is the very reason why it is so attractive. In the ancient time, some celebrities loved to come here for the peace and purity. At present, modern people come here for the same reason.
The gracious place where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle, is the ideal place for the newly wedded couples or love-struck pairs for honeymoon or romantic tour. The annual International Wedding Festival organized by the local government is hold here. The other reason people love to come here for romance is the romantic story prevails over the whole China.
Long ago, two passionate lovers from rival Li clans have pledged their love for one another here, promising that they would be together wherever they traveled. Constantly pursued by troops from both clans, they were forced to leap from this spot into the sea. The Chinese believe that two of the huge rocks that stand facing one another represent the two lovers. Today, Chinese couples still invoke this tale in their declarations of love, promising that they too, would go to the 'end of the world' for one another.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Ticket Price:
65 CNY for entrance
Half fare for the students and soldiers
Location: 23 km away from the city center of Sanya,
Transportation: you can come here by bus (5 CNY) or by taxi (30 CNY).
Luhuitou Peninsula
The Luhuitou Peninsula in the southernmost of the Sayan City is hailed as the Lovers’ Mountain. The Luhuitou Park is built on this peninsula, where the tourists, most of whom are the couples in deep love with each other or the people who want to find the true love here, spend their romantic tour.
With a height of 275 meters, Luhuitou-mountain is the best angle for sunrise and sunset as well as the unique place for the entire sight of the beautiful Sayan city. Covering 880,000 m2, Luhuitou Park is full of distinctive landscapes, such as the white Tide Viewing Pavillion, the red Sea Viewing Tower, the green Lover’s Island and the 12-meter-tall Stone Sculpture of a Deer etc. Owing to the pleasant weather, flowers are blossoming and trees are green for the year round in the park. What’s more, the treasure fruit--Red Coconut is the god-given feast for us. Why not come here to look your romantic memory?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00--22:00
Ticket Price:
45 CNY for the adult
Half fare for the kids between 1.2-1.4 meter
Location: 3 km away far the city center of Sanya city
Transportation: Bus No. 3 and 22 will bring you here.
Nanshan Temple
Nanshan is one of the birthplaces of the Buddhism in China, where many significant Buddhists have been here and left behind many Buddhist Classics, such as the Mother Buddha and the Buddhist Jianzhen from China and the Japanese monk Konghai. Therefore, local people built up the Nanshan Temple, covering 4,000,000 m2, in memory of the Buddhists who made great contribution to the development of Chinese Buddhist.
Nanshan Temple is built in the southernmost of Sayan city, facing the vast sea and surrounded by the green hills, in which there is a set of 33 sculptures of Mother Buddha and a 108-meter-tall sculpture of Mother Buddha. The magnificent temple is a treasure mine that full of many Buddhist cultural classics. An increasing number of tourists come here to experience the Buddhist culture, to taste the real monks’ vegetarian food, to photograph the grand sights or to participate in the Shadow Boxing practice in the morning.
Nanshan Tourism Zone, a five-star scenic spot, is a combination of culture and nature, where you can experience not only the Buddhist culture, but also the picturesque landscapes in which you may relax entirely and you can return to the pure nature life. Mild sunshine, pure sea, soft beach, blossoming flowers and green woods are waiting for you.
Note:
1. It is impolite to take photo with the Buddha.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
4. Enter the temple at the left side of the door and exit at the right side.
5. The goods in the market is cheaper than that in the temple entrance.
6. Don’t get annoyed, when the monks don’t greet back to you, because they pay little attention to the daily greeting.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price:
150CNY for entrance
48 CNY for the vegetarian banquet
Half fare for the students, soldiers and people over 70
20 CNY for the Golden Sculpture of the Mother Buddha
Location: 40 km away from city center of Sanya
Transportation: Shuttle Bus (9 CNY), Tour Bus (5 CNY) and Taxi (50-100CNY) will bring you here.
Yalong Bay
With a beach of 8 km long, as long as 3 times as that of Hawaii, Yalong Bay, the best bay in the world, is an attractive coastal resort in the southernmost of China. In the past years, numerous tourists have come here for the picturesque natural landscapes and praised the Yalong Bay as the Oriental Hawaii.
Yalong Bay possesses a 66 sq. km beach with a capacity of 100,000 tourists and a shallow stretching out into the sea 60 m far. Can you image how cheerful and amazing it is when you ran on the soft sand, choose the colorful shells, or make the sandcastle in the beach surrounded by clear water and green trees? Can you image how pleasant it is when you enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing in the mild sunshine, blue sky, clear water and gentle breeze? Can you image how exciting it is when you ride a motorboat flying on the sea or dive into the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters playing with the fish?
Pleasant weather, fresh air, peaceful sea, comfortable beach, green coconut woods and marvelous underwater sceneries, which are at their best from August to December, can be one of the resorts on your expedition list.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 8:00
Ticket price:
54 CNY for Center Square and Butterfly Valley
Half fare for the students and the local residences
Free for the kids below 1.3 meter and the people over 70 years
Location: 25 kilometers (16 miles) away from city center of Sanya.
Transportation:
Bus No. 15 Ticket fare 2 CNY
Tour Bus Ticket fare 10 CNY
Western Island
West Islet, the second largest island in Hainan Province, together with the East Islet forms a marvelous sight-- two Hawksbills moving ahead in the bluish waves. West Islet is 8 sea miles away from Sanya city, therefore the ecology is well protected from the pollution, which provides a purely natural resort for people.
Around the islet, the water is clean, air is fresh, sands are soft, trees are green, corals are gorgeous and fish are numerous, which is a god-given scenic spot where people will lose themselves in the colorful eco-entertainments, such as fishing, diving, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing and boating in the banana boat. In addition, the natural bath beach and ideal place for barbeque and campfire party are in the number of the amazing entertainment places.
Speaking of the souvenirs, the shells products are wise choices. There is a gallery for the exhibition of the colorful shells with various and huge shapes, some of which are from overseas, some are local and the other are man-made. Go to West Islet for your expedition of the natural landscapes and natural entertainments.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 17:30
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for entrance
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter
70 CNY for the local people, students in Hainan, soldiers and journalists.
Note: All the entertainments require the ticket for the entrance and the boat.
Location: 8 sea miles away from the Sanya city
Transportation: Taxi (35 CNY) will bring you to the West Islet Quay, and boats will bring you into the West Islet.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Shanghai
Highlights
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Standing at a towering height of 468 meters (1,536 feet), the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is not only the tallest TV tower in Asia but also the third tallest in the world. It ranks behind the 553.3-meter-high CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the 540-meter-high Ostankino Tower in Moscow, Russia. Located in the heart of Pudong’s Lujiazui district, the tower has become a symbol of Shanghai, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Its unique design, featuring 15 spheres of varying sizes at different heights, creates a striking and futuristic appearance.
The tower's design is said to be inspired by a famous Chinese poetic line, "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate," evoking an image of pearls scattered across a jade surface. From its observation deck, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the bustling city, the Huangpu River, and beyond. The revolving restaurant and the expansive sightseeing platform can accommodate up to 1,600 people, offering an unparalleled experience in the sky.
Construction of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1992, with an initial investment of 50 million Yuan from the government. An additional 150 million Yuan and 10 million US Dollars were raised through bank loans from 44 banks. The tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It is affectionately known in China as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl," a reference to its striking design, with two massive spheres at the base and a large pearl-like structure at the top.
In 1995, the tower began broadcasting, hosting nine television channels and 10 FM radio stations. Over the years, it has become a major hub for media and telecommunications, in addition to being a top tourist destination.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. At a height of 263 meters, the observation deck provides breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline. You can also visit the futuristic "Space City" exhibition hall and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, located in the tower's base. This museum showcases the history of the city, including its transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading metropolises.
The large lower sphere of the tower features various attractions, including the "Science Fantasy City" and the "Recreational Palace." On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a view stretching all the way to the Yangtze River from the sightseeing hall. In addition to the observation areas, the tower houses a hotel with 25 elegant rooms in the smaller spheres, offering a relaxing place for visitors to stay.
At the very top of the tower is a large pearl-shaped structure, home to a rotating restaurant, shops, and additional viewing platforms. This iconic structure provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
Over the past decade, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, including 295 overseas heads of state and dignitaries. This immense popularity has made it one of the most profitable TV towers globally. In fact, its annual revenue has exceeded that of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
According to the World Brand Lab, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ranked 96th among the 500 most valuable Chinese brands, with a brand value of 5.148 billion Yuan (approximately 6.2 billion USD). It has consistently been one of the top 20 most influential Chinese brands on the global stage in recent years.
The tower’s combination of cutting-edge technology, breathtaking views, and cultural significance has made it a must-visit attraction in Shanghai and a proud symbol of China's modern achievements.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands as a monumental achievement in both architecture and engineering, symbolizing Shanghai's vibrant future while honoring its rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring the interactive exhibits, or dining in the sky, the tower promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Children’s Palace
The Bund
No. 12, The Bund, is also known as No. 12 Zhongshan East Road. It was once the location of the famous Hui Feng Bank. Built in 1923, this square-shaped building has five vaults and features a distinctive circular roof in the style of ancient Greece, with a half-spherical dome on top. The building is made of steel and is elaborately decorated, including a specially designed reception hall. The British builders of the structure were immensely proud of this creation, with some even calling it “the most exquisite building from the Suez Canal in the east to the Persian Gulf in the west.”
Walking along Zhongshan East Road, you can feel the grandeur and solemnity of the area, as if the Bund is a showcase of architectural excellence. Some say that the Bund is, in fact, "an architectural exhibition." If the architectural district of the Bund were a gallery, the rest of the area would be a showroom. In the early mornings, the Bund becomes a place for locals to exercise and enjoy the fresh air. By day, the historic buildings stand in harmony with the scenic beauty of the Huangpu River and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, making it a favorite spot for tourists. At night, the city lights bathe the Bund in a vibrant glow, enhancing its beauty. The old buildings along the riverbank stand in contrast to the modern skyline, which includes iconic structures such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Jin Mao Tower, creating a stunning view that never fails to leave visitors in awe.
On the eastern side, the Bund borders the Huangpu River, while on the west, 52 buildings line the street, each with its own architectural style—Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Renaissance, Classical, and a fusion of Eastern and Western elements. Although these buildings were constructed at different times and in varying styles, their overall design is remarkably harmonious, with each structure complementing the others.
The Bund, named after the desolate beach that once lay outside the old city of Shanghai, has become one of the city's most iconic landmarks. If you haven’t visited the Bund, then you haven’t truly seen Shanghai. The Bund symbolizes the city itself; it is a microcosm of Shanghai's history and growth.
The Huangpu River
The Huangpu River is a landmark waterway in Shanghai, stretching approximately 113 kilometers (about 70 miles) in length with a width ranging from 300 to 770 meters (about 984 to 2526 feet). Its drainage basin covers an area of 24,000 square kilometers (approx. 5,930,530 acres).
The river originates from Dianshan Lake in Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, which receives water from the upper reaches of the Taihu Lake basin. From there, the river flows downstream to Wusongkou, where it meets the Yangtze River before flowing into the East China Sea. Over the course of thousands of years, the river has carved its path, with the upper reaches running east to west, and the middle and lower reaches turning north to south, effectively dividing the city of Shanghai into Puxi (West of the Huangpu River) and Pudong (East of the Huangpu River). On either side of the river, Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks have risen: the historic Bund on the west bank and the modern financial district of Lujiazui on the east.
During a visit to the river, tourists can admire the Yangpu Bridge, the Nanpu Bridge, and the Oriental Pearl Tower, which stands in the heart of the city. The two bridges, resembling two giant dragons stretching across the Huangpu River, frame the Oriental Pearl Tower in the center, creating a stunning visual metaphor of "two dragons playing with a pearl."
On the west bank of the Huangpu River, visitors are greeted by a collection of grand, foreign-style buildings, known for their diverse architectural influences from around the world. On the east bank, in stark contrast, towering modern skyscrapers rise into the sky, symbolizing Shanghai’s rapid development into a global financial hub.
Wusongkou, located at the mouth of the river, marks the point where the Huangpu River converges with the Yangtze River and the East China Sea. During high tide, one can witness the famous "Three-Water Convergence" phenomenon, where the Huangpu River’s bluish-gray waters, the muddy yellow waters of the Yangtze, and the green waters of the East China Sea mix together, creating a striking display of yellow, green, and blue hues.
The Huangpu River serves multiple functions: it is vital for shipping, water supply, drainage, irrigation, and tourism. As one of the world’s most renowned rivers, it is both a product of nature’s transformative power and a testament to humanity’s successful practice of harnessing the river’s natural flow to serve the needs of a growing city.
Yu Garden
The garden was originally established as a private estate by Pan Yunduan, a distinguished official from Sichuan, to provide his retired father, Pan En, with a serene and tranquil retreat. After over two decades of meticulous planning and construction, Yu Garden was completed in 1577. The name "Yu" symbolizes peace and tranquility, reflecting the garden's purpose of offering solace and serenity to Pan En during his retirement years. By the late Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden had gained recognition as one of the most exquisite gardens in Southeast China.
Yu Garden exemplifies the classical Jiangnan garden style, characterized by its intricate and refined design that seamlessly integrates natural and architectural elements. The garden boasts meandering pathways, exquisite pavilions, stunning rockeries, tranquil koi ponds, and ancient trees all thoughtfully arranged to create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Additionally, it houses an impressive collection of cultural treasures including Ming and Qing dynasty furniture, renowned calligraphy and paintings, elaborate brick carvings as well as traditional stone sculptures.
The Yulinglong Stone, one of the renowned rocks in Jiangnan, and Dianchuntang, which served as the headquarters during the Taiping Rebellion in 1853, are among the prominent features of this garden. Additionally, visitors can explore the adjacent City God Temple and vibrant shopping streets, further enhancing its appeal as a popular tourist destination.
Yu Garden opened to the public in 1961 and was designated a national key cultural heritage site in 1982. Today, it remains a must-visit attraction for those seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of traditional Chinese garden design.
The Jade Buddha Temple
Known for its vibrant spiritual atmosphere, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the most visited and beloved temples in Shanghai. While Longhua Temple is known for fulfilling wishes related to career success, and Jing'an Temple is sought for blessings of peace, the Jade Buddha Temple is famous for helping people with wishes for wealth and love. A visit to the Jade Buddha Temple wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its treasures—the Jade Buddha and the Sitting Buddha, which have been prized by visitors since their arrival from Southeast Asia over a century ago.
At the heart of the temple is the magnificent Jade Buddha, a serene and life-sized statue carved from a single block of jade. Alongside it, visitors can find five other Buddha statues, each radiating peace and grace. The Jade Buddha Temple has undergone multiple restorations and expansions over the years, including the relocation of the Grand Buddha Hall and the construction of the Bell and Drum Towers. These additions have enriched the temple’s cultural and artistic legacy.
Occupying an area of approximately 11.6 acres, the Jade Buddha Temple features a layout based on traditional Chinese temple architecture. The temple’s main axis is home to three grand halls, with additional structures on both the east and west sides. The temple not only holds a special place in the hearts of Shanghai’s Buddhist community but is also a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. It is recognized as one of the top ten tourist attractions in Shanghai and is listed as a key Buddhist site and a protected city monument.
In 1918, the temple was rebuilt on its present site under the guidance of Master Kecheng from the Linji school. The new structure, designed to emulate the architectural style of Song Dynasty temples, was completed after ten years of dedicated work. The complex includes a Buddha hall, pagodas, kitchens, and other traditional temple buildings, with over 200 rooms in total.
The original Jade Buddha Temple was established in 1900, near the Wusong River Bay Railway Station, under the leadership of Master Ben Zhao, a disciple of Huigen. However, the temple was destroyed during the upheaval of the 1911 Revolution, leaving only the precious Jade Buddha untouched. For a time, the statue was housed in a villa on Shendan Road (now Weian Road), before the decision was made to rebuild the temple at its current location.
Founded in 1882 by Master Huigen, the temple originally housed five jade Buddhas brought from Myanmar by the master himself. Of these, two were enshrined in Shanghai, and it is these statues that have made the temple famous.
Nestled at 170 Anyuan Road in the Putuo District of Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the city’s most revered spiritual landmarks. As its name suggests, the temple is home to the sacred Jade Buddha, a symbol of serenity and wisdom. Belonging to the Linji school of Chan Buddhism, the temple is not only a place of worship but also a center for meditation and spiritual practice.
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is a preeminent institution in China, celebrated for its vast collection of over 120,000 invaluable cultural artifacts. Its extensive and exceptional assortment, particularly in the areas of bronze ware, ceramics, calligraphy, and painting has garnered international recognition.
Founded in 1952, the museum initially operated at 325 Nanjing West Road. In 1959, it relocated to a more spacious venue at 16 Henan South Road, where it continued its progressive growth and development. In 1992, the Shanghai government made the strategic decision to construct a new museum in the heart of the city, situated in the prime location of People's Square. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new museum building took place in 1993 and it was officially inaugurated on October 12, 1996.
The new building of the Shanghai Museum spans a total area of 39,200 square meters and stands at a height of 29.5 meters. The distinctive combination of a round dome and square base, symbolizing the concept of "Heaven is round and Earth is square," creates an aesthetically captivating effect. The design seamlessly integrates traditional cultural elements with modern architecture, establishing it as a truly unique and iconic structure among global museums.
The museum accommodates 11 permanent galleries and three exhibition halls. The architectural layout encompasses six functional areas, including exhibition spaces, storage facilities, academic and research zones, management offices, and supporting amenities. Within the premises are 12 thematic exhibition rooms showcasing a wide array of treasures such as bronze artifacts, ceramics, calligraphy masterpieces, and paintings. Additionally, the exhibits encompass coins, jade pieces, sculptures, seals as well as crafts from various ethnic minorities.
The museum's total exhibition space is 12,000 square meters, distributed across four floors. The first floor features the Ancient Chinese Bronze Gallery, Ancient Chinese Sculpture Gallery, and Exhibition Hall. The second floor showcases the Ancient Chinese Ceramics Gallery and the temporary Ceramics Gallery. The third floor is dedicated to the Calligraphy Gallery, Painting Gallery, and Seals Gallery. The fourth floor exhibits the Ancient Chinese Jade Gallery, Coin Gallery, Ming and Qing Furniture Gallery, and the Ethnic Minority Craft Gallery.
Shanghai Jinmao Tower
Standing proudly at 88 Century Avenue in the heart of Shanghai’s Lujiazui Financial District, the Shanghai Jin Mao Tower is a true marvel of modern engineering and design. Located in the bustling center of the city, the tower offers breathtaking views to the east over the Pudong New Area, to the west over downtown Shanghai and the Huangpu River, and to the south toward the vibrant commercial hub of Zhang Yang Road. To the north, it overlooks the expansive 100,000-square-meter central green space.
The Jin Mao Tower occupies 24,000 square meters of land, with a total building area of 290,000 square meters. The towering 88-story main structure rises to a height of 420.5 meters, with approximately 200,000 square meters of space. Its sleek, modern design features a stunning tapering shape, symbolizing both architectural elegance and strength. The tower’s six-story podium covers 32,000 square meters, while the three underground levels span 57,000 square meters. The building’s striking exterior is enveloped in an aluminum alloy lattice, giving it a contemporary yet timeless appeal.
Inside, the Jin Mao Tower is as spectacular as its exterior. The first two floors house the grand lobby, while floors 3 to 50 feature expansive, column-free office spaces with a ceiling height of 4 meters and a net height of 2.7 meters. The upper floors—51 to 52—house essential mechanical and electrical systems, while the 53rd to 87th floors are home to a luxurious hotel. The 88th floor boasts an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Designed by the renowned Chicago-based architectural firm SOM, with Adrian Smith as the lead designer, the Jin Mao Tower combines cutting-edge global architectural trends with traditional Chinese design elements. The building is an engineering masterpiece, with a vertical deviation of only 2 centimeters and the ability to withstand winds of up to level 12 and earthquakes of magnitude 7.
The tower’s exterior is characterized by large glass panels that reflect ever-changing hues—shifting from silver to shades of blue and green. Between the two layers of glass, a low-temperature conductor ensures the interior remains insulated from the outdoor elements.
Inside, the grand lobby features a striking archway design and walls clad in Mediterranean-style perforated marble for both aesthetic and soundproofing purposes. The polished marble floors gleam without being overly shiny, while the main hallway leading to the banquet hall is an artistic corridor showcasing Chinese calligraphy and copper reliefs that depict the evolution of Chinese script, from ancient oracle bone inscriptions to modern-day characters.
At the top of the Jin Mao Tower, the 88th floor offers the “Cloud Walk”—a 60-meter-long, 1.2-meter-wide transparent skywalk, the highest of its kind in the world. This glass walkway allows visitors to experience Shanghai from a breathtaking 340.1 meters above ground level, walking in the clouds and enjoying an unparalleled view of the city below.
Since its completion, the Jin Mao Tower has garnered numerous accolades, including the Illinois World Architecture Award in 1998 and the Shanghai Classic Architecture Gold Award in 1999. It also achieved LEED-EB certification in 2013 and was named one of the "Top Ten New Landmarks in Shanghai" in 2020.
A true symbol of Shanghai's dynamic growth, the Jin Mao Tower remains a must-see destination for those who wish to experience the cutting-edge of modern architecture while soaking in the rich cultural and historical essence of one of the world’s most exciting cities.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Standing at a towering height of 468 meters (1,536 feet), the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is not only the tallest TV tower in Asia but also the third tallest in the world. It ranks behind the 553.3-meter-high CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the 540-meter-high Ostankino Tower in Moscow, Russia. Located in the heart of Pudong’s Lujiazui district, the tower has become a symbol of Shanghai, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Its unique design, featuring 15 spheres of varying sizes at different heights, creates a striking and futuristic appearance.
The tower's design is said to be inspired by a famous Chinese poetic line, "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate," evoking an image of pearls scattered across a jade surface. From its observation deck, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the bustling city, the Huangpu River, and beyond. The revolving restaurant and the expansive sightseeing platform can accommodate up to 1,600 people, offering an unparalleled experience in the sky.
Construction of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1992, with an initial investment of 50 million Yuan from the government. An additional 150 million Yuan and 10 million US Dollars were raised through bank loans from 44 banks. The tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It is affectionately known in China as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl," a reference to its striking design, with two massive spheres at the base and a large pearl-like structure at the top.
In 1995, the tower began broadcasting, hosting nine television channels and 10 FM radio stations. Over the years, it has become a major hub for media and telecommunications, in addition to being a top tourist destination.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. At a height of 263 meters, the observation deck provides breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline. You can also visit the futuristic "Space City" exhibition hall and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, located in the tower's base. This museum showcases the history of the city, including its transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading metropolises.
The large lower sphere of the tower features various attractions, including the "Science Fantasy City" and the "Recreational Palace." On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a view stretching all the way to the Yangtze River from the sightseeing hall. In addition to the observation areas, the tower houses a hotel with 25 elegant rooms in the smaller spheres, offering a relaxing place for visitors to stay.
At the very top of the tower is a large pearl-shaped structure, home to a rotating restaurant, shops, and additional viewing platforms. This iconic structure provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
Over the past decade, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, including 295 overseas heads of state and dignitaries. This immense popularity has made it one of the most profitable TV towers globally. In fact, its annual revenue has exceeded that of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
According to the World Brand Lab, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ranked 96th among the 500 most valuable Chinese brands, with a brand value of 5.148 billion Yuan (approximately 6.2 billion USD). It has consistently been one of the top 20 most influential Chinese brands on the global stage in recent years.
The tower’s combination of cutting-edge technology, breathtaking views, and cultural significance has made it a must-visit attraction in Shanghai and a proud symbol of China's modern achievements.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands as a monumental achievement in both architecture and engineering, symbolizing Shanghai's vibrant future while honoring its rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring the interactive exhibits, or dining in the sky, the tower promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Children’s Palace
The Bund
No. 12, The Bund, is also known as No. 12 Zhongshan East Road. It was once the location of the famous Hui Feng Bank. Built in 1923, this square-shaped building has five vaults and features a distinctive circular roof in the style of ancient Greece, with a half-spherical dome on top. The building is made of steel and is elaborately decorated, including a specially designed reception hall. The British builders of the structure were immensely proud of this creation, with some even calling it “the most exquisite building from the Suez Canal in the east to the Persian Gulf in the west.”
Walking along Zhongshan East Road, you can feel the grandeur and solemnity of the area, as if the Bund is a showcase of architectural excellence. Some say that the Bund is, in fact, "an architectural exhibition." If the architectural district of the Bund were a gallery, the rest of the area would be a showroom. In the early mornings, the Bund becomes a place for locals to exercise and enjoy the fresh air. By day, the historic buildings stand in harmony with the scenic beauty of the Huangpu River and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, making it a favorite spot for tourists. At night, the city lights bathe the Bund in a vibrant glow, enhancing its beauty. The old buildings along the riverbank stand in contrast to the modern skyline, which includes iconic structures such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Jin Mao Tower, creating a stunning view that never fails to leave visitors in awe.
On the eastern side, the Bund borders the Huangpu River, while on the west, 52 buildings line the street, each with its own architectural style—Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Renaissance, Classical, and a fusion of Eastern and Western elements. Although these buildings were constructed at different times and in varying styles, their overall design is remarkably harmonious, with each structure complementing the others.
The Bund, named after the desolate beach that once lay outside the old city of Shanghai, has become one of the city's most iconic landmarks. If you haven’t visited the Bund, then you haven’t truly seen Shanghai. The Bund symbolizes the city itself; it is a microcosm of Shanghai's history and growth.
The Huangpu River
The Huangpu River is a landmark waterway in Shanghai, stretching approximately 113 kilometers (about 70 miles) in length with a width ranging from 300 to 770 meters (about 984 to 2526 feet). Its drainage basin covers an area of 24,000 square kilometers (approx. 5,930,530 acres).
The river originates from Dianshan Lake in Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, which receives water from the upper reaches of the Taihu Lake basin. From there, the river flows downstream to Wusongkou, where it meets the Yangtze River before flowing into the East China Sea. Over the course of thousands of years, the river has carved its path, with the upper reaches running east to west, and the middle and lower reaches turning north to south, effectively dividing the city of Shanghai into Puxi (West of the Huangpu River) and Pudong (East of the Huangpu River). On either side of the river, Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks have risen: the historic Bund on the west bank and the modern financial district of Lujiazui on the east.
During a visit to the river, tourists can admire the Yangpu Bridge, the Nanpu Bridge, and the Oriental Pearl Tower, which stands in the heart of the city. The two bridges, resembling two giant dragons stretching across the Huangpu River, frame the Oriental Pearl Tower in the center, creating a stunning visual metaphor of "two dragons playing with a pearl."
On the west bank of the Huangpu River, visitors are greeted by a collection of grand, foreign-style buildings, known for their diverse architectural influences from around the world. On the east bank, in stark contrast, towering modern skyscrapers rise into the sky, symbolizing Shanghai’s rapid development into a global financial hub.
Wusongkou, located at the mouth of the river, marks the point where the Huangpu River converges with the Yangtze River and the East China Sea. During high tide, one can witness the famous "Three-Water Convergence" phenomenon, where the Huangpu River’s bluish-gray waters, the muddy yellow waters of the Yangtze, and the green waters of the East China Sea mix together, creating a striking display of yellow, green, and blue hues.
The Huangpu River serves multiple functions: it is vital for shipping, water supply, drainage, irrigation, and tourism. As one of the world’s most renowned rivers, it is both a product of nature’s transformative power and a testament to humanity’s successful practice of harnessing the river’s natural flow to serve the needs of a growing city.
Yu Garden
The garden was originally established as a private estate by Pan Yunduan, a distinguished official from Sichuan, to provide his retired father, Pan En, with a serene and tranquil retreat. After over two decades of meticulous planning and construction, Yu Garden was completed in 1577. The name "Yu" symbolizes peace and tranquility, reflecting the garden's purpose of offering solace and serenity to Pan En during his retirement years. By the late Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden had gained recognition as one of the most exquisite gardens in Southeast China.
Yu Garden exemplifies the classical Jiangnan garden style, characterized by its intricate and refined design that seamlessly integrates natural and architectural elements. The garden boasts meandering pathways, exquisite pavilions, stunning rockeries, tranquil koi ponds, and ancient trees all thoughtfully arranged to create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Additionally, it houses an impressive collection of cultural treasures including Ming and Qing dynasty furniture, renowned calligraphy and paintings, elaborate brick carvings as well as traditional stone sculptures.
The Yulinglong Stone, one of the renowned rocks in Jiangnan, and Dianchuntang, which served as the headquarters during the Taiping Rebellion in 1853, are among the prominent features of this garden. Additionally, visitors can explore the adjacent City God Temple and vibrant shopping streets, further enhancing its appeal as a popular tourist destination.
Yu Garden opened to the public in 1961 and was designated a national key cultural heritage site in 1982. Today, it remains a must-visit attraction for those seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of traditional Chinese garden design.
The Jade Buddha Temple
Known for its vibrant spiritual atmosphere, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the most visited and beloved temples in Shanghai. While Longhua Temple is known for fulfilling wishes related to career success, and Jing'an Temple is sought for blessings of peace, the Jade Buddha Temple is famous for helping people with wishes for wealth and love. A visit to the Jade Buddha Temple wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its treasures—the Jade Buddha and the Sitting Buddha, which have been prized by visitors since their arrival from Southeast Asia over a century ago.
At the heart of the temple is the magnificent Jade Buddha, a serene and life-sized statue carved from a single block of jade. Alongside it, visitors can find five other Buddha statues, each radiating peace and grace. The Jade Buddha Temple has undergone multiple restorations and expansions over the years, including the relocation of the Grand Buddha Hall and the construction of the Bell and Drum Towers. These additions have enriched the temple’s cultural and artistic legacy.
Occupying an area of approximately 11.6 acres, the Jade Buddha Temple features a layout based on traditional Chinese temple architecture. The temple’s main axis is home to three grand halls, with additional structures on both the east and west sides. The temple not only holds a special place in the hearts of Shanghai’s Buddhist community but is also a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. It is recognized as one of the top ten tourist attractions in Shanghai and is listed as a key Buddhist site and a protected city monument.
In 1918, the temple was rebuilt on its present site under the guidance of Master Kecheng from the Linji school. The new structure, designed to emulate the architectural style of Song Dynasty temples, was completed after ten years of dedicated work. The complex includes a Buddha hall, pagodas, kitchens, and other traditional temple buildings, with over 200 rooms in total.
The original Jade Buddha Temple was established in 1900, near the Wusong River Bay Railway Station, under the leadership of Master Ben Zhao, a disciple of Huigen. However, the temple was destroyed during the upheaval of the 1911 Revolution, leaving only the precious Jade Buddha untouched. For a time, the statue was housed in a villa on Shendan Road (now Weian Road), before the decision was made to rebuild the temple at its current location.
Founded in 1882 by Master Huigen, the temple originally housed five jade Buddhas brought from Myanmar by the master himself. Of these, two were enshrined in Shanghai, and it is these statues that have made the temple famous.
Nestled at 170 Anyuan Road in the Putuo District of Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the city’s most revered spiritual landmarks. As its name suggests, the temple is home to the sacred Jade Buddha, a symbol of serenity and wisdom. Belonging to the Linji school of Chan Buddhism, the temple is not only a place of worship but also a center for meditation and spiritual practice.
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is a preeminent institution in China, celebrated for its vast collection of over 120,000 invaluable cultural artifacts. Its extensive and exceptional assortment, particularly in the areas of bronze ware, ceramics, calligraphy, and painting has garnered international recognition.
Founded in 1952, the museum initially operated at 325 Nanjing West Road. In 1959, it relocated to a more spacious venue at 16 Henan South Road, where it continued its progressive growth and development. In 1992, the Shanghai government made the strategic decision to construct a new museum in the heart of the city, situated in the prime location of People's Square. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new museum building took place in 1993 and it was officially inaugurated on October 12, 1996.
The new building of the Shanghai Museum spans a total area of 39,200 square meters and stands at a height of 29.5 meters. The distinctive combination of a round dome and square base, symbolizing the concept of "Heaven is round and Earth is square," creates an aesthetically captivating effect. The design seamlessly integrates traditional cultural elements with modern architecture, establishing it as a truly unique and iconic structure among global museums.
The museum accommodates 11 permanent galleries and three exhibition halls. The architectural layout encompasses six functional areas, including exhibition spaces, storage facilities, academic and research zones, management offices, and supporting amenities. Within the premises are 12 thematic exhibition rooms showcasing a wide array of treasures such as bronze artifacts, ceramics, calligraphy masterpieces, and paintings. Additionally, the exhibits encompass coins, jade pieces, sculptures, seals as well as crafts from various ethnic minorities.
The museum's total exhibition space is 12,000 square meters, distributed across four floors. The first floor features the Ancient Chinese Bronze Gallery, Ancient Chinese Sculpture Gallery, and Exhibition Hall. The second floor showcases the Ancient Chinese Ceramics Gallery and the temporary Ceramics Gallery. The third floor is dedicated to the Calligraphy Gallery, Painting Gallery, and Seals Gallery. The fourth floor exhibits the Ancient Chinese Jade Gallery, Coin Gallery, Ming and Qing Furniture Gallery, and the Ethnic Minority Craft Gallery.
Shanghai Jinmao Tower
Standing proudly at 88 Century Avenue in the heart of Shanghai’s Lujiazui Financial District, the Shanghai Jin Mao Tower is a true marvel of modern engineering and design. Located in the bustling center of the city, the tower offers breathtaking views to the east over the Pudong New Area, to the west over downtown Shanghai and the Huangpu River, and to the south toward the vibrant commercial hub of Zhang Yang Road. To the north, it overlooks the expansive 100,000-square-meter central green space.
The Jin Mao Tower occupies 24,000 square meters of land, with a total building area of 290,000 square meters. The towering 88-story main structure rises to a height of 420.5 meters, with approximately 200,000 square meters of space. Its sleek, modern design features a stunning tapering shape, symbolizing both architectural elegance and strength. The tower’s six-story podium covers 32,000 square meters, while the three underground levels span 57,000 square meters. The building’s striking exterior is enveloped in an aluminum alloy lattice, giving it a contemporary yet timeless appeal.
Inside, the Jin Mao Tower is as spectacular as its exterior. The first two floors house the grand lobby, while floors 3 to 50 feature expansive, column-free office spaces with a ceiling height of 4 meters and a net height of 2.7 meters. The upper floors—51 to 52—house essential mechanical and electrical systems, while the 53rd to 87th floors are home to a luxurious hotel. The 88th floor boasts an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Designed by the renowned Chicago-based architectural firm SOM, with Adrian Smith as the lead designer, the Jin Mao Tower combines cutting-edge global architectural trends with traditional Chinese design elements. The building is an engineering masterpiece, with a vertical deviation of only 2 centimeters and the ability to withstand winds of up to level 12 and earthquakes of magnitude 7.
The tower’s exterior is characterized by large glass panels that reflect ever-changing hues—shifting from silver to shades of blue and green. Between the two layers of glass, a low-temperature conductor ensures the interior remains insulated from the outdoor elements.
Inside, the grand lobby features a striking archway design and walls clad in Mediterranean-style perforated marble for both aesthetic and soundproofing purposes. The polished marble floors gleam without being overly shiny, while the main hallway leading to the banquet hall is an artistic corridor showcasing Chinese calligraphy and copper reliefs that depict the evolution of Chinese script, from ancient oracle bone inscriptions to modern-day characters.
At the top of the Jin Mao Tower, the 88th floor offers the “Cloud Walk”—a 60-meter-long, 1.2-meter-wide transparent skywalk, the highest of its kind in the world. This glass walkway allows visitors to experience Shanghai from a breathtaking 340.1 meters above ground level, walking in the clouds and enjoying an unparalleled view of the city below.
Since its completion, the Jin Mao Tower has garnered numerous accolades, including the Illinois World Architecture Award in 1998 and the Shanghai Classic Architecture Gold Award in 1999. It also achieved LEED-EB certification in 2013 and was named one of the "Top Ten New Landmarks in Shanghai" in 2020.
A true symbol of Shanghai's dynamic growth, the Jin Mao Tower remains a must-see destination for those who wish to experience the cutting-edge of modern architecture while soaking in the rich cultural and historical essence of one of the world’s most exciting cities.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Standing at a towering height of 468 meters (1,536 feet), the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is not only the tallest TV tower in Asia but also the third tallest in the world. It ranks behind the 553.3-meter-high CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the 540-meter-high Ostankino Tower in Moscow, Russia. Located in the heart of Pudong’s Lujiazui district, the tower has become a symbol of Shanghai, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Its unique design, featuring 15 spheres of varying sizes at different heights, creates a striking and futuristic appearance.
The tower's design is said to be inspired by a famous Chinese poetic line, "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate," evoking an image of pearls scattered across a jade surface. From its observation deck, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the bustling city, the Huangpu River, and beyond. The revolving restaurant and the expansive sightseeing platform can accommodate up to 1,600 people, offering an unparalleled experience in the sky.
Construction of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1992, with an initial investment of 50 million Yuan from the government. An additional 150 million Yuan and 10 million US Dollars were raised through bank loans from 44 banks. The tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It is affectionately known in China as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl," a reference to its striking design, with two massive spheres at the base and a large pearl-like structure at the top.
In 1995, the tower began broadcasting, hosting nine television channels and 10 FM radio stations. Over the years, it has become a major hub for media and telecommunications, in addition to being a top tourist destination.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. At a height of 263 meters, the observation deck provides breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline. You can also visit the futuristic "Space City" exhibition hall and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, located in the tower's base. This museum showcases the history of the city, including its transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading metropolises.
The large lower sphere of the tower features various attractions, including the "Science Fantasy City" and the "Recreational Palace." On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a view stretching all the way to the Yangtze River from the sightseeing hall. In addition to the observation areas, the tower houses a hotel with 25 elegant rooms in the smaller spheres, offering a relaxing place for visitors to stay.
At the very top of the tower is a large pearl-shaped structure, home to a rotating restaurant, shops, and additional viewing platforms. This iconic structure provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
Over the past decade, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, including 295 overseas heads of state and dignitaries. This immense popularity has made it one of the most profitable TV towers globally. In fact, its annual revenue has exceeded that of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
According to the World Brand Lab, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ranked 96th among the 500 most valuable Chinese brands, with a brand value of 5.148 billion Yuan (approximately 6.2 billion USD). It has consistently been one of the top 20 most influential Chinese brands on the global stage in recent years.
The tower’s combination of cutting-edge technology, breathtaking views, and cultural significance has made it a must-visit attraction in Shanghai and a proud symbol of China's modern achievements.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands as a monumental achievement in both architecture and engineering, symbolizing Shanghai's vibrant future while honoring its rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring the interactive exhibits, or dining in the sky, the tower promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Children’s Palace
Chengdu
Highlights
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
With two clean rivers running through and two green hills decorating, Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) Historic Interest Area, an ancient town full of ancient cultural architectures and custom, appeals to an increasing number of tourists from near and far. Huanglong Historic Interest Area consists of three charming parts that are free for visiting, namely the Custom Street, the Dragon Street and the core zone.
Along the Custom Street, various magnificent architectures built in different times will be a sumptuous art feast for the eyes, and the beautiful and yummy local snacks will increase your appetite greatly and make you reluctant to leave. Having traveled around the Custom Street, you will be attracted by the next station--Dragon Street, where there is a clean stream zigzagging through just like a water dragon. Along the both banks of the dragon stream, teahouses, local restaurants and specialties stores rank orderly like a comb.
Crossing the stone bridge, you will reach the core zone where the most shinning cultural heritages are waiting for you. The fish-skeleton-like lanes, the centuries-old dock and the ancient temples with old banyans around and street full of ancient local customs will be a memorable experience in your expedition. If you come here on the local festivals, the lovely local celebrations will amaze you a lot.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 16:30
Ticket Price: free
Location: 40 km (25 miles) away from the city center of Chengdu
Transportation:
Shuttle bus from New South Gate (xin nan men) Station will bring you here directly (10 CNY).
Emei Mountain
Consisting of four mountains with the peak of 3099 meters and covering 154 square km, E-mei Mountain is praised as the finest mountain under heaven for the rarely seen picturesque landscapes in the precipitous topography. With two rivers circling, E-mei possesses marvelous scenes--the long peaceful valley, the curtain-like rushing waterfalls, the flourishing trees and blooming flowers—together with which the Buddhist temples form a beautiful picture.
Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base
Speaking of the panda, the phrase “National Treasure of China” will hit our minds. Panda is a kind of precious wild animal species that requires a demanding living environment. Therefore, China set up many Breeding and Research Bases to provide an ideal and most suitable natural living circumstance for the Chinese Giant Panda, the base in Sichuan Province is included.
Leshan Giant Buddha
As the largest stone sculpture of Buddha in the world, the Leshan Giant Buddha, sitting at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers, costs 90 years to complete. The idea of the creation of the giant Buddha sculpture is out of the popularity of the Buddhist in Tang Dynasty.
Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage
Du Fu, a celebrated poet in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), has left behind over 200 masterpieces of peoms for the later generations. Du Fu is known for the patriotism and his brilliant in poem. The most important factor of all about his work is compassion, which was especially inspirational for his fans.
As its name implies, the Thatched Cottage of Du Fu was Du Fu’s home a thousand years ago, while it is not so much a cottage as a museum that attracts numerous visitors. The exhibits here include a brief account of Du Fu's life and some of his original calligraphy and poems. The complex also contains three imposing statues of some of China's greatest poets; Du Fu, Li You and Huang Tingjian (the latter two were Song dynasty poets). Today, this is a pleasant site to visit, with nice buildings dotted about, teahouses and pleasant bamboo gardens to wander and explore. This site is also home to the Chengdu Du Fu society. The Thatched Cottage of Du Fu stretches out its arms to welcome visitors from all over the world.
A garden-like museum full of cultural breath is for showing people how brilliant and celebrated Du Fu is and for making your amazing expedition meaningful.
Opening Hours:
8:00 -- 18:00 (in winter)
7:30 -- 19:00 (in summer)
Ticket Price:
60 CNY for adults
30 CNY for students
Free for the people holding the local Older Card and the non-local people older than 70
Location: No. 38, Tsinghua Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 17, 35, 82, 84 and 301 will bring you here directly.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, constructed in Qin Dynasty around 2,200 years ago, is a shinning pearl in the irrigation development of China, which is also praised as the “Originator of the Culture in Irrigation Work”. As the earliest irrigation work without dam in the ancient China, Dujiangyan has been making the greatest contribution to the development of the economy in Chengdu--the land of abundance.
Having witnessed centuries’ changes, the gorgeous Dujiangyan likes a record of the history attracting a growing number of tourists with the picturesque and splendid landscape. On November 29, 2000, Dujiangyan was listed as the world cultural heritage by UNESCO. Nowadays, Dujiangyan is not only the irrigation work, but also a popular scenic spot with many charming sceneries around--just like many stars twinkling around the moon.
The characterized members of the stars are the fish-mouth-like dyke--can solve the problem of irrigation in drought seasons, the bottle-neck-like sluice gate--can control the volume of inflowing water, the vent-like Feishayan--can release flood and silt from waterway to outer river, the 500-meter-long Anlan Suspension Bridge (called Couple’s Bridge)--has experienced hundreds years’ history since Song dynasty (960-1234), the garden-like Erwang-Temple with peaceful environment, and the 1800-year-old Dragon-Taming Temple.
Opening Hours: 09:00 -- 17:50
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for adults
45 CNY for kids between 1.1-1.4 meter, people between 60-69 years, the disabled and the students
Location: West Dujiangyan City, Sichuan
Transportation: Shuttle buses, subway and bus No. 1 to No. 17, 101, 102, 103, 201 and 202 will bring you here directly.
Wangjiang Pavilion
Wangjiang Pavilion with a height of 39 meters is the most shinning architecture in the Wangjiang Park that covered by green bamboo woods. Wangjiang Pavilion, built in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), was designed as an octagonal shape with the overhanging eaves, sharp golden roof, and various exquisite figure carvings and clay sculptures of animals decorating each floor. Located on the bank of Jinjiang River, Wangjiang Pavilion provides an ideal angle for river viewing, from which it derived the present name “Wangjiang Lou”.
This splendid pavilion was built in memory of Xue Tao, a brilliant female poet in Tang Dynasty who has left behind many great poems. There are more than 100 kinds of bamboo around the Wangjiang Pavilion for Xue Tao has a passion for bamboo in her life. Around the Wangjiang Pivilion, out lay a group of memorial buildings including Wuyunxiang Hall, Quanxiang chamber, Pipa pavilion among which there are house a large amount of steles, paintings, calligraphy, inscribed couplets and poems.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Wangjiang Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 3, 18, 19, 31 and 35 will bring you here directly.
Wuhou Memorial Temple
Covering 37,000 square meters, Wuhou Memorial Temple was built in the year of 233 in memory of Zhuge Liang, the most brilliant military counselor in the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280). Inside the temple, the magnificent and exquisitely designed buildings are hiding in the flourishingly towering pine trees, creating a historic environment with a strong breath of history.
In the exhibition zone, there are a lot of valuable historic relics, including the well-known couplets created by Du Fu, exquisite carvings and sophisticated stone inscriptions, the precious works of calligraphy and painting, the statuses of the celebrities in Three Kingdoms Period as well as the room with the original appearance in which Zhuge Liang lived. The exhibitions may cause an amazing feeling likes being back to the Three Kingdoms Period.
The temple displays the suppleness of the Chinese garden. There are numerous historical relics like horizontal cribbed boards, couplets, inscribed tablets, penmanship, furnaces, Chinese tripods, etc. The SanZui (Three-Best) horizontal inscribed board, Zhuge Liang's Lung Gun couplets, Chu Si Biao and the tomb of LiuBei are the most famous one. Today the Wuhou Temple is the most famous tourist attraction of Chengdu city. It is not only a site for people to commemorate Zhuge Liang, but also serves as a museum to the history of the Three Kingdoms Period.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 60 CNY
Location: No. 231, Wuhouci Street, Chengdu City
Transportation:
Bus No.1, 10, 57, 82, 301, 334, 335, 503, 521, 901 and 904 will bring you here directly.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
With two clean rivers running through and two green hills decorating, Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) Historic Interest Area, an ancient town full of ancient cultural architectures and custom, appeals to an increasing number of tourists from near and far. Huanglong Historic Interest Area consists of three charming parts that are free for visiting, namely the Custom Street, the Dragon Street and the core zone.
Along the Custom Street, various magnificent architectures built in different times will be a sumptuous art feast for the eyes, and the beautiful and yummy local snacks will increase your appetite greatly and make you reluctant to leave. Having traveled around the Custom Street, you will be attracted by the next station--Dragon Street, where there is a clean stream zigzagging through just like a water dragon. Along the both banks of the dragon stream, teahouses, local restaurants and specialties stores rank orderly like a comb.
Crossing the stone bridge, you will reach the core zone where the most shinning cultural heritages are waiting for you. The fish-skeleton-like lanes, the centuries-old dock and the ancient temples with old banyans around and street full of ancient local customs will be a memorable experience in your expedition. If you come here on the local festivals, the lovely local celebrations will amaze you a lot.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 16:30
Ticket Price: free
Location: 40 km (25 miles) away from the city center of Chengdu
Transportation:
Shuttle bus from New South Gate (xin nan men) Station will bring you here directly (10 CNY).
Emei Mountain
Consisting of four mountains with the peak of 3099 meters and covering 154 square km, E-mei Mountain is praised as the finest mountain under heaven for the rarely seen picturesque landscapes in the precipitous topography. With two rivers circling, E-mei possesses marvelous scenes--the long peaceful valley, the curtain-like rushing waterfalls, the flourishing trees and blooming flowers—together with which the Buddhist temples form a beautiful picture.
Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base
Speaking of the panda, the phrase “National Treasure of China” will hit our minds. Panda is a kind of precious wild animal species that requires a demanding living environment. Therefore, China set up many Breeding and Research Bases to provide an ideal and most suitable natural living circumstance for the Chinese Giant Panda, the base in Sichuan Province is included.
Leshan Giant Buddha
As the largest stone sculpture of Buddha in the world, the Leshan Giant Buddha, sitting at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers, costs 90 years to complete. The idea of the creation of the giant Buddha sculpture is out of the popularity of the Buddhist in Tang Dynasty.
Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage
Du Fu, a celebrated poet in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), has left behind over 200 masterpieces of peoms for the later generations. Du Fu is known for the patriotism and his brilliant in poem. The most important factor of all about his work is compassion, which was especially inspirational for his fans.
As its name implies, the Thatched Cottage of Du Fu was Du Fu’s home a thousand years ago, while it is not so much a cottage as a museum that attracts numerous visitors. The exhibits here include a brief account of Du Fu's life and some of his original calligraphy and poems. The complex also contains three imposing statues of some of China's greatest poets; Du Fu, Li You and Huang Tingjian (the latter two were Song dynasty poets). Today, this is a pleasant site to visit, with nice buildings dotted about, teahouses and pleasant bamboo gardens to wander and explore. This site is also home to the Chengdu Du Fu society. The Thatched Cottage of Du Fu stretches out its arms to welcome visitors from all over the world.
A garden-like museum full of cultural breath is for showing people how brilliant and celebrated Du Fu is and for making your amazing expedition meaningful.
Opening Hours:
8:00 -- 18:00 (in winter)
7:30 -- 19:00 (in summer)
Ticket Price:
60 CNY for adults
30 CNY for students
Free for the people holding the local Older Card and the non-local people older than 70
Location: No. 38, Tsinghua Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 17, 35, 82, 84 and 301 will bring you here directly.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, constructed in Qin Dynasty around 2,200 years ago, is a shinning pearl in the irrigation development of China, which is also praised as the “Originator of the Culture in Irrigation Work”. As the earliest irrigation work without dam in the ancient China, Dujiangyan has been making the greatest contribution to the development of the economy in Chengdu--the land of abundance.Having witnessed centuries’ changes, the gorgeous Dujiangyan likes a record of the history attracting a growing number of tourists with the picturesque and splendid landscape. On November 29, 2000, Dujiangyan was listed as the world cultural heritage by UNESCO. Nowadays, Dujiangyan is not only the irrigation work, but also a popular scenic spot with many charming sceneries around--just like many stars twinkling around the moon.
The characterized members of the stars are the fish-mouth-like dyke--can solve the problem of irrigation in drought seasons, the bottle-neck-like sluice gate--can control the volume of inflowing water, the vent-like Feishayan--can release flood and silt from waterway to outer river, the 500-meter-long Anlan Suspension Bridge (called Couple’s Bridge)--has experienced hundreds years’ history since Song dynasty (960-1234), the garden-like Erwang-Temple with peaceful environment, and the 1800-year-old Dragon-Taming Temple.
Opening Hours: 09:00 -- 17:50
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for adults
45 CNY for kids between 1.1-1.4 meter, people between 60-69 years, the disabled and the students
Location: West Dujiangyan City, Sichuan
Transportation: Shuttle buses, subway and bus No. 1 to No. 17, 101, 102, 103, 201 and 202 will bring you here directly.
Wangjiang Pavilion
Wangjiang Pavilion with a height of 39 meters is the most shinning architecture in the Wangjiang Park that covered by green bamboo woods. Wangjiang Pavilion, built in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), was designed as an octagonal shape with the overhanging eaves, sharp golden roof, and various exquisite figure carvings and clay sculptures of animals decorating each floor. Located on the bank of Jinjiang River, Wangjiang Pavilion provides an ideal angle for river viewing, from which it derived the present name “Wangjiang Lou”.
This splendid pavilion was built in memory of Xue Tao, a brilliant female poet in Tang Dynasty who has left behind many great poems. There are more than 100 kinds of bamboo around the Wangjiang Pavilion for Xue Tao has a passion for bamboo in her life. Around the Wangjiang Pivilion, out lay a group of memorial buildings including Wuyunxiang Hall, Quanxiang chamber, Pipa pavilion among which there are house a large amount of steles, paintings, calligraphy, inscribed couplets and poems.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Wangjiang Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 3, 18, 19, 31 and 35 will bring you here directly.
Wuhou Memorial Temple
Covering 37,000 square meters, Wuhou Memorial Temple was built in the year of 233 in memory of Zhuge Liang, the most brilliant military counselor in the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280). Inside the temple, the magnificent and exquisitely designed buildings are hiding in the flourishingly towering pine trees, creating a historic environment with a strong breath of history.
In the exhibition zone, there are a lot of valuable historic relics, including the well-known couplets created by Du Fu, exquisite carvings and sophisticated stone inscriptions, the precious works of calligraphy and painting, the statuses of the celebrities in Three Kingdoms Period as well as the room with the original appearance in which Zhuge Liang lived. The exhibitions may cause an amazing feeling likes being back to the Three Kingdoms Period.
The temple displays the suppleness of the Chinese garden. There are numerous historical relics like horizontal cribbed boards, couplets, inscribed tablets, penmanship, furnaces, Chinese tripods, etc. The SanZui (Three-Best) horizontal inscribed board, Zhuge Liang's Lung Gun couplets, Chu Si Biao and the tomb of LiuBei are the most famous one. Today the Wuhou Temple is the most famous tourist attraction of Chengdu city. It is not only a site for people to commemorate Zhuge Liang, but also serves as a museum to the history of the Three Kingdoms Period.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 60 CNY
Location: No. 231, Wuhouci Street, Chengdu City
Transportation:
Bus No.1, 10, 57, 82, 301, 334, 335, 503, 521, 901 and 904 will bring you here directly.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
With two clean rivers running through and two green hills decorating, Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) Historic Interest Area, an ancient town full of ancient cultural architectures and custom, appeals to an increasing number of tourists from near and far. Huanglong Historic Interest Area consists of three charming parts that are free for visiting, namely the Custom Street, the Dragon Street and the core zone.
Along the Custom Street, various magnificent architectures built in different times will be a sumptuous art feast for the eyes, and the beautiful and yummy local snacks will increase your appetite greatly and make you reluctant to leave. Having traveled around the Custom Street, you will be attracted by the next station--Dragon Street, where there is a clean stream zigzagging through just like a water dragon. Along the both banks of the dragon stream, teahouses, local restaurants and specialties stores rank orderly like a comb.
Crossing the stone bridge, you will reach the core zone where the most shinning cultural heritages are waiting for you. The fish-skeleton-like lanes, the centuries-old dock and the ancient temples with old banyans around and street full of ancient local customs will be a memorable experience in your expedition. If you come here on the local festivals, the lovely local celebrations will amaze you a lot.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 16:30
Ticket Price: free
Location: 40 km (25 miles) away from the city center of Chengdu
Transportation:
Shuttle bus from New South Gate (xin nan men) Station will bring you here directly (10 CNY).
Emei Mountain
Consisting of four mountains with the peak of 3099 meters and covering 154 square km, E-mei Mountain is praised as the finest mountain under heaven for the rarely seen picturesque landscapes in the precipitous topography. With two rivers circling, E-mei possesses marvelous scenes--the long peaceful valley, the curtain-like rushing waterfalls, the flourishing trees and blooming flowers—together with which the Buddhist temples form a beautiful picture.
Jiuzhaigou
Highlights
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Shuzheng Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the beneath branch is the Shuzheng Valley, while the right is the Rize Valley and the left is the Zechawa Vallay.
Rize Valley Tour Route
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Shuzheng Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the beneath branch is the Shuzheng Valley, while the right is the Rize Valley and the left is the Zechawa Vallay.
Rize Valley Tour Route
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Lijiang
Highlights
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
The Ancient Town of Lijiang
In the vast China, there are four intact-preserved ancient towns, and the ancient town of Lijiang is a shinning member of it. Unlike the other ancient towns, the Lijiang ancient town is open without any town walls that will make the town more mysterious, while the blue marble stone pathways winding along the town would bring you back to the history.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Hailed as the Oriental Grand Canyon, the Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiaoxia) is, to some extent, more attractive than the Grand Canyon. It is the most precipitous gorge in the vast China with an altitude difference of 3000 meters that is 600 meters more than that of the Grand Canyon. Therefore, the waterfalls here are amazingly marvelous, the stones here are surprisingly bizarre and landscapes on the cliffs here are spectacularly wonderful, all of which make Tiger Leaping Gorge a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
Tiger Leaping Gorge with a splendid view of the swift turbulent current of the Golden River is formed through constant cutting by the waters between Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Mountain. Spanning 17 kilometers long, the gorge, consists of the Upper Gorge, the Middle Gorge and the Lower Gorge, drops about 300 meters in a series of 18 rapids. The Lower Gorge is the most awe - inspiring part of all. The gorge, where the Golden Sand River pounds furiously at its rocky shores in an awesome fashion, sending up skilful of white froth, is a dream place for adventurers.
Seen from the bridge, the marvelous geological wonder, two huge mountains leaning close to each other and a large volume of fast moving water between them cutting deeper and deeper into the bottom of the gorge, will be more splendid. In addition, there is a drop of 3000 meters to the water, a beautiful and surprising place to go for photography.
Embraced by the arms of the picturesque Cangshan Mountain and guarded by an 8-meter-tall and 3.5-kilometer-long wall, the 600-year-old city of Dali was first built in 1683 and is characterized by the ancient stonewalls, grey tiled roofs, doors and windows carved with dragon and phoenix partners and gardens of varying sizes. The entire city is covered by a maze of streams, fed by runoffs from the Cangshan Mountain. Hence, the saying the gurgling of water can be heard in every house and flowers are planted in every family.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 50 CNY
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang City
Transportation: Bus from Lijiang Bus Station and taxi will bring you here.
Lugu Lake
Lying in the flourishing forests far away from the pollution, Lugu Lake, covers 50 square kilometers with thousands square kilometers of lawns, is like a pearl inlayed in the plateau. With seven islands on the lake, the largest freshwater lake in Sichuan, seen from a bird’s eye of view, looks like a flying eagle with wings spreading.
Yufeng Monastery (Yufeng Si )
Built at the foot of the Yufeng Mountain in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), the Yufeng Monastery has experienced more than 400 years of history. What may amaze you most is the huge old camellia that planted in Ming Dynasty (1364-1644), 100 years earlier than the construction of the monastery. This camellia is praised as the King of the Camellia for the marvelous size of it.
From the beginning of the spring to the beginning of summer, the camellia will be fully blooming for 20 times without breaking off just like a peacock showing off her tail, and the amount of the flowers blooming at each time is more than 1000, therefore there are surprisingly 20,000 flowers blooming every year. This magic camellia is said to be improved through grafting, so the flowers blooming on this 2-meter-tall camellia are as large as a plate.
On the arrival of the spring, people will come all the way from near and far to have a close look at this huge camellia blooming under the reflecting of the gorgeous Yulong Mountain with the snow as the coat.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Yulong Mt., Lijiang City
Transportation: Taxi from Lijiang will bring you here.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xue Shan )
With an average altitude of 4000, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (yu long xue shan) is the wonderful place with marvelous spectacles in the challenging environment. Ganhaizi is a piece of vast grassland in the east with beautiful sceneries that provides a good angle for people to enjoy the entire sight of the Jade Dragon Snow Mt. White River, originates from the Jade Dragon Snow Mt., is a crystal-like river flowing along the Mt.. Yunshanping, a virgin forest with abundant rare natural resources, is the holy land of the Naxi people. All of them make Jade Dragon Snow Mountain a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
The mountains western flanks drop steeply to the Upper Yangtze River (Jinsha Jiang), helping to form magnificent, deep gorges, and the highest peak is Shanzidou. The summit, Shanzidou, is 5596 meters above sea level. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China.
She is a botanist's paradise and a "kingdom of medicinal materials". Of the 13,000 kinds of plants in Yunnan, more than half of them can be found on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as well as 400 types of trees in 20 primeval forest communities. From April to June the azaleas turn the mountain into a riot of brilliant color. In autumn, blue rough gentian flowers cover her marshlands. She is decorated with blooming flowers 10 months of the year.
The mountain is also a sanctuary for animals, many of them rare animals that live at different temperature levels. She is home to 30 kinds of animals protected by the state, such as the wild ass, the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, the lesser panda, the forest musk deer, the clouded leopard, the blood pheasant, the silver pheasant, and the spotted, yellowish civet cat.
She has attracted the attention of many scholars and travelers. Early in 1837, the French writer Bacier introduced Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in his acclaimed book "Universe". And seven years ago the chairman of the international Mountainous Region led a team to the mountain for field work.
In Lijiang City, you can have a magnificent view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the main peak thrust into the clouds, the Old Man Peak standing out on the right and Black Snow Peak on its left.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 16:00
Ticket Price:
190 CNY
80 CNY for the kids below 1.1 m
Location: 15 km away from the Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 7 (15 CNY) and taxi (100 CNY) will bring you here.
Baisha Mural
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
The mural group consists of more than 10 small groups, the amount of mural in all of which is up to 550. Those gorgeous murals with various styles, which are telling the stories of the religious belief and social life of the local, are a blooming intelligent show that you must visit.
Located in Baisha Township, 8km north of the seat of the Lijiang Naxi Nationality Autonomous County, the mural is a rich fusion that had resulted in a tremendously powerful art, heavy in spirit and awe-inspiring in its presentation of the mystical world. Dominated by black, silver, dark green, gold and red colors, the murals in the back hall, overlaid with centuries of brown soot, are bizarre, the scenes and figures, some still vivid in detail, are largely taken from Tibetan Buddhist iconography and include the wheel of life, judges of the underworld, the damned, titans and gods, Buddha and bodhisattvas. There are trigrams, lotus flowers and even Sanskrit inscriptions on the ceiling. The deliberate damage done to the paintings is apparent and terrible, but the loss of the irreplaceable wooden statuary that filled the temple, of which there is no trace, is even more tragic.
These mural paintings, with their fine and smooth lines, bright colors, vivid pattern and balanced and harmonious composition are a wonderful sight that is not only crucial to the history of Chinese painting, but also important to cultural heritage relics.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 40 CNY
Location: 12 km away from Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 6 from Lijiang will bring you here.
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
The Ancient Town of Lijiang
In the vast China, there are four intact-preserved ancient towns, and the ancient town of Lijiang is a shinning member of it. Unlike the other ancient towns, the Lijiang ancient town is open without any town walls that will make the town more mysterious, while the blue marble stone pathways winding along the town would bring you back to the history.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Hailed as the Oriental Grand Canyon, the Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiaoxia) is, to some extent, more attractive than the Grand Canyon. It is the most precipitous gorge in the vast China with an altitude difference of 3000 meters that is 600 meters more than that of the Grand Canyon. Therefore, the waterfalls here are amazingly marvelous, the stones here are surprisingly bizarre and landscapes on the cliffs here are spectacularly wonderful, all of which make Tiger Leaping Gorge a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
Tiger Leaping Gorge with a splendid view of the swift turbulent current of the Golden River is formed through constant cutting by the waters between Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Mountain. Spanning 17 kilometers long, the gorge, consists of the Upper Gorge, the Middle Gorge and the Lower Gorge, drops about 300 meters in a series of 18 rapids. The Lower Gorge is the most awe - inspiring part of all. The gorge, where the Golden Sand River pounds furiously at its rocky shores in an awesome fashion, sending up skilful of white froth, is a dream place for adventurers.
Seen from the bridge, the marvelous geological wonder, two huge mountains leaning close to each other and a large volume of fast moving water between them cutting deeper and deeper into the bottom of the gorge, will be more splendid. In addition, there is a drop of 3000 meters to the water, a beautiful and surprising place to go for photography.
Embraced by the arms of the picturesque Cangshan Mountain and guarded by an 8-meter-tall and 3.5-kilometer-long wall, the 600-year-old city of Dali was first built in 1683 and is characterized by the ancient stonewalls, grey tiled roofs, doors and windows carved with dragon and phoenix partners and gardens of varying sizes. The entire city is covered by a maze of streams, fed by runoffs from the Cangshan Mountain. Hence, the saying the gurgling of water can be heard in every house and flowers are planted in every family.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 50 CNY
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang City
Transportation: Bus from Lijiang Bus Station and taxi will bring you here.
Lugu Lake
Lying in the flourishing forests far away from the pollution, Lugu Lake, covers 50 square kilometers with thousands square kilometers of lawns, is like a pearl inlayed in the plateau. With seven islands on the lake, the largest freshwater lake in Sichuan, seen from a bird’s eye of view, looks like a flying eagle with wings spreading.
Yufeng Monastery (Yufeng Si )
Built at the foot of the Yufeng Mountain in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), the Yufeng Monastery has experienced more than 400 years of history. What may amaze you most is the huge old camellia that planted in Ming Dynasty (1364-1644), 100 years earlier than the construction of the monastery. This camellia is praised as the King of the Camellia for the marvelous size of it.
From the beginning of the spring to the beginning of summer, the camellia will be fully blooming for 20 times without breaking off just like a peacock showing off her tail, and the amount of the flowers blooming at each time is more than 1000, therefore there are surprisingly 20,000 flowers blooming every year. This magic camellia is said to be improved through grafting, so the flowers blooming on this 2-meter-tall camellia are as large as a plate.
On the arrival of the spring, people will come all the way from near and far to have a close look at this huge camellia blooming under the reflecting of the gorgeous Yulong Mountain with the snow as the coat.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Yulong Mt., Lijiang City
Transportation: Taxi from Lijiang will bring you here.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xue Shan )
With an average altitude of 4000, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (yu long xue shan) is the wonderful place with marvelous spectacles in the challenging environment. Ganhaizi is a piece of vast grassland in the east with beautiful sceneries that provides a good angle for people to enjoy the entire sight of the Jade Dragon Snow Mt. White River, originates from the Jade Dragon Snow Mt., is a crystal-like river flowing along the Mt.. Yunshanping, a virgin forest with abundant rare natural resources, is the holy land of the Naxi people. All of them make Jade Dragon Snow Mountain a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
The mountains western flanks drop steeply to the Upper Yangtze River (Jinsha Jiang), helping to form magnificent, deep gorges, and the highest peak is Shanzidou. The summit, Shanzidou, is 5596 meters above sea level. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China.
She is a botanist's paradise and a "kingdom of medicinal materials". Of the 13,000 kinds of plants in Yunnan, more than half of them can be found on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as well as 400 types of trees in 20 primeval forest communities. From April to June the azaleas turn the mountain into a riot of brilliant color. In autumn, blue rough gentian flowers cover her marshlands. She is decorated with blooming flowers 10 months of the year.
The mountain is also a sanctuary for animals, many of them rare animals that live at different temperature levels. She is home to 30 kinds of animals protected by the state, such as the wild ass, the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, the lesser panda, the forest musk deer, the clouded leopard, the blood pheasant, the silver pheasant, and the spotted, yellowish civet cat.
She has attracted the attention of many scholars and travelers. Early in 1837, the French writer Bacier introduced Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in his acclaimed book "Universe". And seven years ago the chairman of the international Mountainous Region led a team to the mountain for field work.
In Lijiang City, you can have a magnificent view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the main peak thrust into the clouds, the Old Man Peak standing out on the right and Black Snow Peak on its left.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 16:00
Ticket Price:
190 CNY
80 CNY for the kids below 1.1 m
Location: 15 km away from the Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 7 (15 CNY) and taxi (100 CNY) will bring you here.
Baisha Mural
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
The mural group consists of more than 10 small groups, the amount of mural in all of which is up to 550. Those gorgeous murals with various styles, which are telling the stories of the religious belief and social life of the local, are a blooming intelligent show that you must visit.
Located in Baisha Township, 8km north of the seat of the Lijiang Naxi Nationality Autonomous County, the mural is a rich fusion that had resulted in a tremendously powerful art, heavy in spirit and awe-inspiring in its presentation of the mystical world. Dominated by black, silver, dark green, gold and red colors, the murals in the back hall, overlaid with centuries of brown soot, are bizarre, the scenes and figures, some still vivid in detail, are largely taken from Tibetan Buddhist iconography and include the wheel of life, judges of the underworld, the damned, titans and gods, Buddha and bodhisattvas. There are trigrams, lotus flowers and even Sanskrit inscriptions on the ceiling. The deliberate damage done to the paintings is apparent and terrible, but the loss of the irreplaceable wooden statuary that filled the temple, of which there is no trace, is even more tragic.
These mural paintings, with their fine and smooth lines, bright colors, vivid pattern and balanced and harmonious composition are a wonderful sight that is not only crucial to the history of Chinese painting, but also important to cultural heritage relics.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 40 CNY
Location: 12 km away from Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 6 from Lijiang will bring you here.
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
Guilin
Highlights
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Li River
Elephant Trunk Hill
Wave Subduing Hill
Reed Flute Cave
Seven Star Park
Yangshuo
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Li River
Elephant Trunk Hill
Wave Subduing Hill
Reed Flute Cave
Seven Star Park
Yangshuo
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Sanya
Highlights
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Dadonghai Beach
Dadong Beach is one of the most popular resorts where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle. Along this crescent beach, you can enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing, which would be more pleasant in winter when the average temperature is 20℃.
Diving in the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters, riding the motorboat flying on the beautiful sea, doing the barbeque along the soft beach or choosing the colorful shells, or making the sandcastle could be the coziest fair in the life.
As one part of the natural picture of scenery of Sanya, Dadong Beach, the beach with the well-developed facilities and the longest history in Sanya, appeals to a growing number of tourists from home and abroad. May this mysteriously peaceful beach be the number of your expeditions?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Price: 25 CNY for entrance
Transportation:
Bus No. 2, 4 and 8 from railway station
Bus No. 15 from Yalong Bay
Bus Ticket Fare: 2 CNY
Taxi can bring you here from city center (Car Fare: 10 CNY)
End of the World
End of the World was once a remote place in the ancient time where has rare communication with the other places in traffic, trade or information. Thus, the ecological environment here is well preserved, which is the very reason why it is so attractive. In the ancient time, some celebrities loved to come here for the peace and purity. At present, modern people come here for the same reason.
The gracious place where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle, is the ideal place for the newly wedded couples or love-struck pairs for honeymoon or romantic tour. The annual International Wedding Festival organized by the local government is hold here. The other reason people love to come here for romance is the romantic story prevails over the whole China.
Long ago, two passionate lovers from rival Li clans have pledged their love for one another here, promising that they would be together wherever they traveled. Constantly pursued by troops from both clans, they were forced to leap from this spot into the sea. The Chinese believe that two of the huge rocks that stand facing one another represent the two lovers. Today, Chinese couples still invoke this tale in their declarations of love, promising that they too, would go to the 'end of the world' for one another.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Ticket Price:
65 CNY for entrance
Half fare for the students and soldiers
Location: 23 km away from the city center of Sanya,
Transportation: you can come here by bus (5 CNY) or by taxi (30 CNY).
Luhuitou Peninsula
The Luhuitou Peninsula in the southernmost of the Sayan City is hailed as the Lovers’ Mountain. The Luhuitou Park is built on this peninsula, where the tourists, most of whom are the couples in deep love with each other or the people who want to find the true love here, spend their romantic tour.
With a height of 275 meters, Luhuitou-mountain is the best angle for sunrise and sunset as well as the unique place for the entire sight of the beautiful Sayan city. Covering 880,000 m2, Luhuitou Park is full of distinctive landscapes, such as the white Tide Viewing Pavillion, the red Sea Viewing Tower, the green Lover’s Island and the 12-meter-tall Stone Sculpture of a Deer etc. Owing to the pleasant weather, flowers are blossoming and trees are green for the year round in the park. What’s more, the treasure fruit--Red Coconut is the god-given feast for us. Why not come here to look your romantic memory?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00--22:00
Ticket Price:
45 CNY for the adult
Half fare for the kids between 1.2-1.4 meter
Location: 3 km away far the city center of Sanya city
Transportation: Bus No. 3 and 22 will bring you here.
Nanshan Temple
Nanshan is one of the birthplaces of the Buddhism in China, where many significant Buddhists have been here and left behind many Buddhist Classics, such as the Mother Buddha and the Buddhist Jianzhen from China and the Japanese monk Konghai. Therefore, local people built up the Nanshan Temple, covering 4,000,000 m2, in memory of the Buddhists who made great contribution to the development of Chinese Buddhist.
Nanshan Temple is built in the southernmost of Sayan city, facing the vast sea and surrounded by the green hills, in which there is a set of 33 sculptures of Mother Buddha and a 108-meter-tall sculpture of Mother Buddha. The magnificent temple is a treasure mine that full of many Buddhist cultural classics. An increasing number of tourists come here to experience the Buddhist culture, to taste the real monks’ vegetarian food, to photograph the grand sights or to participate in the Shadow Boxing practice in the morning.
Nanshan Tourism Zone, a five-star scenic spot, is a combination of culture and nature, where you can experience not only the Buddhist culture, but also the picturesque landscapes in which you may relax entirely and you can return to the pure nature life. Mild sunshine, pure sea, soft beach, blossoming flowers and green woods are waiting for you.
Note:
1. It is impolite to take photo with the Buddha.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
4. Enter the temple at the left side of the door and exit at the right side.
5. The goods in the market is cheaper than that in the temple entrance.
6. Don’t get annoyed, when the monks don’t greet back to you, because they pay little attention to the daily greeting.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price:
150CNY for entrance
48 CNY for the vegetarian banquet
Half fare for the students, soldiers and people over 70
20 CNY for the Golden Sculpture of the Mother Buddha
Location: 40 km away from city center of Sanya
Transportation: Shuttle Bus (9 CNY), Tour Bus (5 CNY) and Taxi (50-100CNY) will bring you here.
Yalong Bay
With a beach of 8 km long, as long as 3 times as that of Hawaii, Yalong Bay, the best bay in the world, is an attractive coastal resort in the southernmost of China. In the past years, numerous tourists have come here for the picturesque natural landscapes and praised the Yalong Bay as the Oriental Hawaii.
Yalong Bay possesses a 66 sq. km beach with a capacity of 100,000 tourists and a shallow stretching out into the sea 60 m far. Can you image how cheerful and amazing it is when you ran on the soft sand, choose the colorful shells, or make the sandcastle in the beach surrounded by clear water and green trees? Can you image how pleasant it is when you enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing in the mild sunshine, blue sky, clear water and gentle breeze? Can you image how exciting it is when you ride a motorboat flying on the sea or dive into the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters playing with the fish?
Pleasant weather, fresh air, peaceful sea, comfortable beach, green coconut woods and marvelous underwater sceneries, which are at their best from August to December, can be one of the resorts on your expedition list.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 8:00
Ticket price:
54 CNY for Center Square and Butterfly Valley
Half fare for the students and the local residences
Free for the kids below 1.3 meter and the people over 70 years
Location: 25 kilometers (16 miles) away from city center of Sanya.
Transportation:
Bus No. 15 Ticket fare 2 CNY
Tour Bus Ticket fare 10 CNY
Western Island
West Islet, the second largest island in Hainan Province, together with the East Islet forms a marvelous sight-- two Hawksbills moving ahead in the bluish waves. West Islet is 8 sea miles away from Sanya city, therefore the ecology is well protected from the pollution, which provides a purely natural resort for people.
Around the islet, the water is clean, air is fresh, sands are soft, trees are green, corals are gorgeous and fish are numerous, which is a god-given scenic spot where people will lose themselves in the colorful eco-entertainments, such as fishing, diving, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing and boating in the banana boat. In addition, the natural bath beach and ideal place for barbeque and campfire party are in the number of the amazing entertainment places.
Speaking of the souvenirs, the shells products are wise choices. There is a gallery for the exhibition of the colorful shells with various and huge shapes, some of which are from overseas, some are local and the other are man-made. Go to West Islet for your expedition of the natural landscapes and natural entertainments.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 17:30
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for entrance
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter
70 CNY for the local people, students in Hainan, soldiers and journalists.
Note: All the entertainments require the ticket for the entrance and the boat.
Location: 8 sea miles away from the Sanya city
Transportation: Taxi (35 CNY) will bring you to the West Islet Quay, and boats will bring you into the West Islet.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Dadonghai Beach
Dadong Beach is one of the most popular resorts where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle. Along this crescent beach, you can enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing, which would be more pleasant in winter when the average temperature is 20℃.
Diving in the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters, riding the motorboat flying on the beautiful sea, doing the barbeque along the soft beach or choosing the colorful shells, or making the sandcastle could be the coziest fair in the life.
As one part of the natural picture of scenery of Sanya, Dadong Beach, the beach with the well-developed facilities and the longest history in Sanya, appeals to a growing number of tourists from home and abroad. May this mysteriously peaceful beach be the number of your expeditions?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Price: 25 CNY for entrance
Transportation:
Bus No. 2, 4 and 8 from railway station
Bus No. 15 from Yalong Bay
Bus Ticket Fare: 2 CNY
Taxi can bring you here from city center (Car Fare: 10 CNY)
End of the World
End of the World was once a remote place in the ancient time where has rare communication with the other places in traffic, trade or information. Thus, the ecological environment here is well preserved, which is the very reason why it is so attractive. In the ancient time, some celebrities loved to come here for the peace and purity. At present, modern people come here for the same reason.
The gracious place where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle, is the ideal place for the newly wedded couples or love-struck pairs for honeymoon or romantic tour. The annual International Wedding Festival organized by the local government is hold here. The other reason people love to come here for romance is the romantic story prevails over the whole China.
Long ago, two passionate lovers from rival Li clans have pledged their love for one another here, promising that they would be together wherever they traveled. Constantly pursued by troops from both clans, they were forced to leap from this spot into the sea. The Chinese believe that two of the huge rocks that stand facing one another represent the two lovers. Today, Chinese couples still invoke this tale in their declarations of love, promising that they too, would go to the 'end of the world' for one another.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Ticket Price:
65 CNY for entrance
Half fare for the students and soldiers
Location: 23 km away from the city center of Sanya,
Transportation: you can come here by bus (5 CNY) or by taxi (30 CNY).
Luhuitou Peninsula
The Luhuitou Peninsula in the southernmost of the Sayan City is hailed as the Lovers’ Mountain. The Luhuitou Park is built on this peninsula, where the tourists, most of whom are the couples in deep love with each other or the people who want to find the true love here, spend their romantic tour.
With a height of 275 meters, Luhuitou-mountain is the best angle for sunrise and sunset as well as the unique place for the entire sight of the beautiful Sayan city. Covering 880,000 m2, Luhuitou Park is full of distinctive landscapes, such as the white Tide Viewing Pavillion, the red Sea Viewing Tower, the green Lover’s Island and the 12-meter-tall Stone Sculpture of a Deer etc. Owing to the pleasant weather, flowers are blossoming and trees are green for the year round in the park. What’s more, the treasure fruit--Red Coconut is the god-given feast for us. Why not come here to look your romantic memory?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00--22:00
Ticket Price:
45 CNY for the adult
Half fare for the kids between 1.2-1.4 meter
Location: 3 km away far the city center of Sanya city
Transportation: Bus No. 3 and 22 will bring you here.
Nanshan Temple
Nanshan is one of the birthplaces of the Buddhism in China, where many significant Buddhists have been here and left behind many Buddhist Classics, such as the Mother Buddha and the Buddhist Jianzhen from China and the Japanese monk Konghai. Therefore, local people built up the Nanshan Temple, covering 4,000,000 m2, in memory of the Buddhists who made great contribution to the development of Chinese Buddhist.
Nanshan Temple is built in the southernmost of Sayan city, facing the vast sea and surrounded by the green hills, in which there is a set of 33 sculptures of Mother Buddha and a 108-meter-tall sculpture of Mother Buddha. The magnificent temple is a treasure mine that full of many Buddhist cultural classics. An increasing number of tourists come here to experience the Buddhist culture, to taste the real monks’ vegetarian food, to photograph the grand sights or to participate in the Shadow Boxing practice in the morning.
Nanshan Tourism Zone, a five-star scenic spot, is a combination of culture and nature, where you can experience not only the Buddhist culture, but also the picturesque landscapes in which you may relax entirely and you can return to the pure nature life. Mild sunshine, pure sea, soft beach, blossoming flowers and green woods are waiting for you.
Note:
1. It is impolite to take photo with the Buddha.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
4. Enter the temple at the left side of the door and exit at the right side.
5. The goods in the market is cheaper than that in the temple entrance.
6. Don’t get annoyed, when the monks don’t greet back to you, because they pay little attention to the daily greeting.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price:
150CNY for entrance
48 CNY for the vegetarian banquet
Half fare for the students, soldiers and people over 70
20 CNY for the Golden Sculpture of the Mother Buddha
Location: 40 km away from city center of Sanya
Transportation: Shuttle Bus (9 CNY), Tour Bus (5 CNY) and Taxi (50-100CNY) will bring you here.
Yalong Bay
With a beach of 8 km long, as long as 3 times as that of Hawaii, Yalong Bay, the best bay in the world, is an attractive coastal resort in the southernmost of China. In the past years, numerous tourists have come here for the picturesque natural landscapes and praised the Yalong Bay as the Oriental Hawaii.
Yalong Bay possesses a 66 sq. km beach with a capacity of 100,000 tourists and a shallow stretching out into the sea 60 m far. Can you image how cheerful and amazing it is when you ran on the soft sand, choose the colorful shells, or make the sandcastle in the beach surrounded by clear water and green trees? Can you image how pleasant it is when you enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing in the mild sunshine, blue sky, clear water and gentle breeze? Can you image how exciting it is when you ride a motorboat flying on the sea or dive into the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters playing with the fish?
Pleasant weather, fresh air, peaceful sea, comfortable beach, green coconut woods and marvelous underwater sceneries, which are at their best from August to December, can be one of the resorts on your expedition list.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 8:00
Ticket price:
54 CNY for Center Square and Butterfly Valley
Half fare for the students and the local residences
Free for the kids below 1.3 meter and the people over 70 years
Location: 25 kilometers (16 miles) away from city center of Sanya.
Transportation:
Bus No. 15 Ticket fare 2 CNY
Tour Bus Ticket fare 10 CNY
Western Island
West Islet, the second largest island in Hainan Province, together with the East Islet forms a marvelous sight-- two Hawksbills moving ahead in the bluish waves. West Islet is 8 sea miles away from Sanya city, therefore the ecology is well protected from the pollution, which provides a purely natural resort for people.
Around the islet, the water is clean, air is fresh, sands are soft, trees are green, corals are gorgeous and fish are numerous, which is a god-given scenic spot where people will lose themselves in the colorful eco-entertainments, such as fishing, diving, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing and boating in the banana boat. In addition, the natural bath beach and ideal place for barbeque and campfire party are in the number of the amazing entertainment places.
Speaking of the souvenirs, the shells products are wise choices. There is a gallery for the exhibition of the colorful shells with various and huge shapes, some of which are from overseas, some are local and the other are man-made. Go to West Islet for your expedition of the natural landscapes and natural entertainments.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 17:30
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for entrance
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter
70 CNY for the local people, students in Hainan, soldiers and journalists.
Note: All the entertainments require the ticket for the entrance and the boat.
Location: 8 sea miles away from the Sanya city
Transportation: Taxi (35 CNY) will bring you to the West Islet Quay, and boats will bring you into the West Islet.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Shanghai
Highlights
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Standing at a towering height of 468 meters (1,536 feet), the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is not only the tallest TV tower in Asia but also the third tallest in the world. It ranks behind the 553.3-meter-high CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the 540-meter-high Ostankino Tower in Moscow, Russia. Located in the heart of Pudong’s Lujiazui district, the tower has become a symbol of Shanghai, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Its unique design, featuring 15 spheres of varying sizes at different heights, creates a striking and futuristic appearance.
The tower's design is said to be inspired by a famous Chinese poetic line, "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate," evoking an image of pearls scattered across a jade surface. From its observation deck, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the bustling city, the Huangpu River, and beyond. The revolving restaurant and the expansive sightseeing platform can accommodate up to 1,600 people, offering an unparalleled experience in the sky.
Construction of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1992, with an initial investment of 50 million Yuan from the government. An additional 150 million Yuan and 10 million US Dollars were raised through bank loans from 44 banks. The tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It is affectionately known in China as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl," a reference to its striking design, with two massive spheres at the base and a large pearl-like structure at the top.
In 1995, the tower began broadcasting, hosting nine television channels and 10 FM radio stations. Over the years, it has become a major hub for media and telecommunications, in addition to being a top tourist destination.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. At a height of 263 meters, the observation deck provides breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline. You can also visit the futuristic "Space City" exhibition hall and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, located in the tower's base. This museum showcases the history of the city, including its transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading metropolises.
The large lower sphere of the tower features various attractions, including the "Science Fantasy City" and the "Recreational Palace." On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a view stretching all the way to the Yangtze River from the sightseeing hall. In addition to the observation areas, the tower houses a hotel with 25 elegant rooms in the smaller spheres, offering a relaxing place for visitors to stay.
At the very top of the tower is a large pearl-shaped structure, home to a rotating restaurant, shops, and additional viewing platforms. This iconic structure provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
Over the past decade, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, including 295 overseas heads of state and dignitaries. This immense popularity has made it one of the most profitable TV towers globally. In fact, its annual revenue has exceeded that of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
According to the World Brand Lab, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ranked 96th among the 500 most valuable Chinese brands, with a brand value of 5.148 billion Yuan (approximately 6.2 billion USD). It has consistently been one of the top 20 most influential Chinese brands on the global stage in recent years.
The tower’s combination of cutting-edge technology, breathtaking views, and cultural significance has made it a must-visit attraction in Shanghai and a proud symbol of China's modern achievements.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands as a monumental achievement in both architecture and engineering, symbolizing Shanghai's vibrant future while honoring its rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring the interactive exhibits, or dining in the sky, the tower promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Children’s Palace
The Bund
No. 12, The Bund, is also known as No. 12 Zhongshan East Road. It was once the location of the famous Hui Feng Bank. Built in 1923, this square-shaped building has five vaults and features a distinctive circular roof in the style of ancient Greece, with a half-spherical dome on top. The building is made of steel and is elaborately decorated, including a specially designed reception hall. The British builders of the structure were immensely proud of this creation, with some even calling it “the most exquisite building from the Suez Canal in the east to the Persian Gulf in the west.”
Walking along Zhongshan East Road, you can feel the grandeur and solemnity of the area, as if the Bund is a showcase of architectural excellence. Some say that the Bund is, in fact, "an architectural exhibition." If the architectural district of the Bund were a gallery, the rest of the area would be a showroom. In the early mornings, the Bund becomes a place for locals to exercise and enjoy the fresh air. By day, the historic buildings stand in harmony with the scenic beauty of the Huangpu River and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, making it a favorite spot for tourists. At night, the city lights bathe the Bund in a vibrant glow, enhancing its beauty. The old buildings along the riverbank stand in contrast to the modern skyline, which includes iconic structures such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Jin Mao Tower, creating a stunning view that never fails to leave visitors in awe.
On the eastern side, the Bund borders the Huangpu River, while on the west, 52 buildings line the street, each with its own architectural style—Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Renaissance, Classical, and a fusion of Eastern and Western elements. Although these buildings were constructed at different times and in varying styles, their overall design is remarkably harmonious, with each structure complementing the others.
The Bund, named after the desolate beach that once lay outside the old city of Shanghai, has become one of the city's most iconic landmarks. If you haven’t visited the Bund, then you haven’t truly seen Shanghai. The Bund symbolizes the city itself; it is a microcosm of Shanghai's history and growth.
The Huangpu River
The Huangpu River is a landmark waterway in Shanghai, stretching approximately 113 kilometers (about 70 miles) in length with a width ranging from 300 to 770 meters (about 984 to 2526 feet). Its drainage basin covers an area of 24,000 square kilometers (approx. 5,930,530 acres).
The river originates from Dianshan Lake in Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, which receives water from the upper reaches of the Taihu Lake basin. From there, the river flows downstream to Wusongkou, where it meets the Yangtze River before flowing into the East China Sea. Over the course of thousands of years, the river has carved its path, with the upper reaches running east to west, and the middle and lower reaches turning north to south, effectively dividing the city of Shanghai into Puxi (West of the Huangpu River) and Pudong (East of the Huangpu River). On either side of the river, Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks have risen: the historic Bund on the west bank and the modern financial district of Lujiazui on the east.
During a visit to the river, tourists can admire the Yangpu Bridge, the Nanpu Bridge, and the Oriental Pearl Tower, which stands in the heart of the city. The two bridges, resembling two giant dragons stretching across the Huangpu River, frame the Oriental Pearl Tower in the center, creating a stunning visual metaphor of "two dragons playing with a pearl."
On the west bank of the Huangpu River, visitors are greeted by a collection of grand, foreign-style buildings, known for their diverse architectural influences from around the world. On the east bank, in stark contrast, towering modern skyscrapers rise into the sky, symbolizing Shanghai’s rapid development into a global financial hub.
Wusongkou, located at the mouth of the river, marks the point where the Huangpu River converges with the Yangtze River and the East China Sea. During high tide, one can witness the famous "Three-Water Convergence" phenomenon, where the Huangpu River’s bluish-gray waters, the muddy yellow waters of the Yangtze, and the green waters of the East China Sea mix together, creating a striking display of yellow, green, and blue hues.
The Huangpu River serves multiple functions: it is vital for shipping, water supply, drainage, irrigation, and tourism. As one of the world’s most renowned rivers, it is both a product of nature’s transformative power and a testament to humanity’s successful practice of harnessing the river’s natural flow to serve the needs of a growing city.
Yu Garden
The garden was originally established as a private estate by Pan Yunduan, a distinguished official from Sichuan, to provide his retired father, Pan En, with a serene and tranquil retreat. After over two decades of meticulous planning and construction, Yu Garden was completed in 1577. The name "Yu" symbolizes peace and tranquility, reflecting the garden's purpose of offering solace and serenity to Pan En during his retirement years. By the late Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden had gained recognition as one of the most exquisite gardens in Southeast China.
Yu Garden exemplifies the classical Jiangnan garden style, characterized by its intricate and refined design that seamlessly integrates natural and architectural elements. The garden boasts meandering pathways, exquisite pavilions, stunning rockeries, tranquil koi ponds, and ancient trees all thoughtfully arranged to create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Additionally, it houses an impressive collection of cultural treasures including Ming and Qing dynasty furniture, renowned calligraphy and paintings, elaborate brick carvings as well as traditional stone sculptures.
The Yulinglong Stone, one of the renowned rocks in Jiangnan, and Dianchuntang, which served as the headquarters during the Taiping Rebellion in 1853, are among the prominent features of this garden. Additionally, visitors can explore the adjacent City God Temple and vibrant shopping streets, further enhancing its appeal as a popular tourist destination.
Yu Garden opened to the public in 1961 and was designated a national key cultural heritage site in 1982. Today, it remains a must-visit attraction for those seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of traditional Chinese garden design.
The Jade Buddha Temple
Known for its vibrant spiritual atmosphere, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the most visited and beloved temples in Shanghai. While Longhua Temple is known for fulfilling wishes related to career success, and Jing'an Temple is sought for blessings of peace, the Jade Buddha Temple is famous for helping people with wishes for wealth and love. A visit to the Jade Buddha Temple wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its treasures—the Jade Buddha and the Sitting Buddha, which have been prized by visitors since their arrival from Southeast Asia over a century ago.
At the heart of the temple is the magnificent Jade Buddha, a serene and life-sized statue carved from a single block of jade. Alongside it, visitors can find five other Buddha statues, each radiating peace and grace. The Jade Buddha Temple has undergone multiple restorations and expansions over the years, including the relocation of the Grand Buddha Hall and the construction of the Bell and Drum Towers. These additions have enriched the temple’s cultural and artistic legacy.
Occupying an area of approximately 11.6 acres, the Jade Buddha Temple features a layout based on traditional Chinese temple architecture. The temple’s main axis is home to three grand halls, with additional structures on both the east and west sides. The temple not only holds a special place in the hearts of Shanghai’s Buddhist community but is also a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. It is recognized as one of the top ten tourist attractions in Shanghai and is listed as a key Buddhist site and a protected city monument.
In 1918, the temple was rebuilt on its present site under the guidance of Master Kecheng from the Linji school. The new structure, designed to emulate the architectural style of Song Dynasty temples, was completed after ten years of dedicated work. The complex includes a Buddha hall, pagodas, kitchens, and other traditional temple buildings, with over 200 rooms in total.
The original Jade Buddha Temple was established in 1900, near the Wusong River Bay Railway Station, under the leadership of Master Ben Zhao, a disciple of Huigen. However, the temple was destroyed during the upheaval of the 1911 Revolution, leaving only the precious Jade Buddha untouched. For a time, the statue was housed in a villa on Shendan Road (now Weian Road), before the decision was made to rebuild the temple at its current location.
Founded in 1882 by Master Huigen, the temple originally housed five jade Buddhas brought from Myanmar by the master himself. Of these, two were enshrined in Shanghai, and it is these statues that have made the temple famous.
Nestled at 170 Anyuan Road in the Putuo District of Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the city’s most revered spiritual landmarks. As its name suggests, the temple is home to the sacred Jade Buddha, a symbol of serenity and wisdom. Belonging to the Linji school of Chan Buddhism, the temple is not only a place of worship but also a center for meditation and spiritual practice.
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is a preeminent institution in China, celebrated for its vast collection of over 120,000 invaluable cultural artifacts. Its extensive and exceptional assortment, particularly in the areas of bronze ware, ceramics, calligraphy, and painting has garnered international recognition.
Founded in 1952, the museum initially operated at 325 Nanjing West Road. In 1959, it relocated to a more spacious venue at 16 Henan South Road, where it continued its progressive growth and development. In 1992, the Shanghai government made the strategic decision to construct a new museum in the heart of the city, situated in the prime location of People's Square. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new museum building took place in 1993 and it was officially inaugurated on October 12, 1996.
The new building of the Shanghai Museum spans a total area of 39,200 square meters and stands at a height of 29.5 meters. The distinctive combination of a round dome and square base, symbolizing the concept of "Heaven is round and Earth is square," creates an aesthetically captivating effect. The design seamlessly integrates traditional cultural elements with modern architecture, establishing it as a truly unique and iconic structure among global museums.
The museum accommodates 11 permanent galleries and three exhibition halls. The architectural layout encompasses six functional areas, including exhibition spaces, storage facilities, academic and research zones, management offices, and supporting amenities. Within the premises are 12 thematic exhibition rooms showcasing a wide array of treasures such as bronze artifacts, ceramics, calligraphy masterpieces, and paintings. Additionally, the exhibits encompass coins, jade pieces, sculptures, seals as well as crafts from various ethnic minorities.
The museum's total exhibition space is 12,000 square meters, distributed across four floors. The first floor features the Ancient Chinese Bronze Gallery, Ancient Chinese Sculpture Gallery, and Exhibition Hall. The second floor showcases the Ancient Chinese Ceramics Gallery and the temporary Ceramics Gallery. The third floor is dedicated to the Calligraphy Gallery, Painting Gallery, and Seals Gallery. The fourth floor exhibits the Ancient Chinese Jade Gallery, Coin Gallery, Ming and Qing Furniture Gallery, and the Ethnic Minority Craft Gallery.
Shanghai Jinmao Tower
Standing proudly at 88 Century Avenue in the heart of Shanghai’s Lujiazui Financial District, the Shanghai Jin Mao Tower is a true marvel of modern engineering and design. Located in the bustling center of the city, the tower offers breathtaking views to the east over the Pudong New Area, to the west over downtown Shanghai and the Huangpu River, and to the south toward the vibrant commercial hub of Zhang Yang Road. To the north, it overlooks the expansive 100,000-square-meter central green space.
The Jin Mao Tower occupies 24,000 square meters of land, with a total building area of 290,000 square meters. The towering 88-story main structure rises to a height of 420.5 meters, with approximately 200,000 square meters of space. Its sleek, modern design features a stunning tapering shape, symbolizing both architectural elegance and strength. The tower’s six-story podium covers 32,000 square meters, while the three underground levels span 57,000 square meters. The building’s striking exterior is enveloped in an aluminum alloy lattice, giving it a contemporary yet timeless appeal.
Inside, the Jin Mao Tower is as spectacular as its exterior. The first two floors house the grand lobby, while floors 3 to 50 feature expansive, column-free office spaces with a ceiling height of 4 meters and a net height of 2.7 meters. The upper floors—51 to 52—house essential mechanical and electrical systems, while the 53rd to 87th floors are home to a luxurious hotel. The 88th floor boasts an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Designed by the renowned Chicago-based architectural firm SOM, with Adrian Smith as the lead designer, the Jin Mao Tower combines cutting-edge global architectural trends with traditional Chinese design elements. The building is an engineering masterpiece, with a vertical deviation of only 2 centimeters and the ability to withstand winds of up to level 12 and earthquakes of magnitude 7.
The tower’s exterior is characterized by large glass panels that reflect ever-changing hues—shifting from silver to shades of blue and green. Between the two layers of glass, a low-temperature conductor ensures the interior remains insulated from the outdoor elements.
Inside, the grand lobby features a striking archway design and walls clad in Mediterranean-style perforated marble for both aesthetic and soundproofing purposes. The polished marble floors gleam without being overly shiny, while the main hallway leading to the banquet hall is an artistic corridor showcasing Chinese calligraphy and copper reliefs that depict the evolution of Chinese script, from ancient oracle bone inscriptions to modern-day characters.
At the top of the Jin Mao Tower, the 88th floor offers the “Cloud Walk”—a 60-meter-long, 1.2-meter-wide transparent skywalk, the highest of its kind in the world. This glass walkway allows visitors to experience Shanghai from a breathtaking 340.1 meters above ground level, walking in the clouds and enjoying an unparalleled view of the city below.
Since its completion, the Jin Mao Tower has garnered numerous accolades, including the Illinois World Architecture Award in 1998 and the Shanghai Classic Architecture Gold Award in 1999. It also achieved LEED-EB certification in 2013 and was named one of the "Top Ten New Landmarks in Shanghai" in 2020.
A true symbol of Shanghai's dynamic growth, the Jin Mao Tower remains a must-see destination for those who wish to experience the cutting-edge of modern architecture while soaking in the rich cultural and historical essence of one of the world’s most exciting cities.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Standing at a towering height of 468 meters (1,536 feet), the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is not only the tallest TV tower in Asia but also the third tallest in the world. It ranks behind the 553.3-meter-high CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the 540-meter-high Ostankino Tower in Moscow, Russia. Located in the heart of Pudong’s Lujiazui district, the tower has become a symbol of Shanghai, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Its unique design, featuring 15 spheres of varying sizes at different heights, creates a striking and futuristic appearance.
The tower's design is said to be inspired by a famous Chinese poetic line, "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate," evoking an image of pearls scattered across a jade surface. From its observation deck, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the bustling city, the Huangpu River, and beyond. The revolving restaurant and the expansive sightseeing platform can accommodate up to 1,600 people, offering an unparalleled experience in the sky.
Construction of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1992, with an initial investment of 50 million Yuan from the government. An additional 150 million Yuan and 10 million US Dollars were raised through bank loans from 44 banks. The tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It is affectionately known in China as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl," a reference to its striking design, with two massive spheres at the base and a large pearl-like structure at the top.
In 1995, the tower began broadcasting, hosting nine television channels and 10 FM radio stations. Over the years, it has become a major hub for media and telecommunications, in addition to being a top tourist destination.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. At a height of 263 meters, the observation deck provides breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline. You can also visit the futuristic "Space City" exhibition hall and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, located in the tower's base. This museum showcases the history of the city, including its transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading metropolises.
The large lower sphere of the tower features various attractions, including the "Science Fantasy City" and the "Recreational Palace." On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a view stretching all the way to the Yangtze River from the sightseeing hall. In addition to the observation areas, the tower houses a hotel with 25 elegant rooms in the smaller spheres, offering a relaxing place for visitors to stay.
At the very top of the tower is a large pearl-shaped structure, home to a rotating restaurant, shops, and additional viewing platforms. This iconic structure provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
Over the past decade, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, including 295 overseas heads of state and dignitaries. This immense popularity has made it one of the most profitable TV towers globally. In fact, its annual revenue has exceeded that of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
According to the World Brand Lab, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ranked 96th among the 500 most valuable Chinese brands, with a brand value of 5.148 billion Yuan (approximately 6.2 billion USD). It has consistently been one of the top 20 most influential Chinese brands on the global stage in recent years.
The tower’s combination of cutting-edge technology, breathtaking views, and cultural significance has made it a must-visit attraction in Shanghai and a proud symbol of China's modern achievements.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands as a monumental achievement in both architecture and engineering, symbolizing Shanghai's vibrant future while honoring its rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring the interactive exhibits, or dining in the sky, the tower promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Children’s Palace
The Bund
No. 12, The Bund, is also known as No. 12 Zhongshan East Road. It was once the location of the famous Hui Feng Bank. Built in 1923, this square-shaped building has five vaults and features a distinctive circular roof in the style of ancient Greece, with a half-spherical dome on top. The building is made of steel and is elaborately decorated, including a specially designed reception hall. The British builders of the structure were immensely proud of this creation, with some even calling it “the most exquisite building from the Suez Canal in the east to the Persian Gulf in the west.”
Walking along Zhongshan East Road, you can feel the grandeur and solemnity of the area, as if the Bund is a showcase of architectural excellence. Some say that the Bund is, in fact, "an architectural exhibition." If the architectural district of the Bund were a gallery, the rest of the area would be a showroom. In the early mornings, the Bund becomes a place for locals to exercise and enjoy the fresh air. By day, the historic buildings stand in harmony with the scenic beauty of the Huangpu River and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, making it a favorite spot for tourists. At night, the city lights bathe the Bund in a vibrant glow, enhancing its beauty. The old buildings along the riverbank stand in contrast to the modern skyline, which includes iconic structures such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Jin Mao Tower, creating a stunning view that never fails to leave visitors in awe.
On the eastern side, the Bund borders the Huangpu River, while on the west, 52 buildings line the street, each with its own architectural style—Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Renaissance, Classical, and a fusion of Eastern and Western elements. Although these buildings were constructed at different times and in varying styles, their overall design is remarkably harmonious, with each structure complementing the others.
The Bund, named after the desolate beach that once lay outside the old city of Shanghai, has become one of the city's most iconic landmarks. If you haven’t visited the Bund, then you haven’t truly seen Shanghai. The Bund symbolizes the city itself; it is a microcosm of Shanghai's history and growth.
The Huangpu River
The Huangpu River is a landmark waterway in Shanghai, stretching approximately 113 kilometers (about 70 miles) in length with a width ranging from 300 to 770 meters (about 984 to 2526 feet). Its drainage basin covers an area of 24,000 square kilometers (approx. 5,930,530 acres).
The river originates from Dianshan Lake in Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, which receives water from the upper reaches of the Taihu Lake basin. From there, the river flows downstream to Wusongkou, where it meets the Yangtze River before flowing into the East China Sea. Over the course of thousands of years, the river has carved its path, with the upper reaches running east to west, and the middle and lower reaches turning north to south, effectively dividing the city of Shanghai into Puxi (West of the Huangpu River) and Pudong (East of the Huangpu River). On either side of the river, Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks have risen: the historic Bund on the west bank and the modern financial district of Lujiazui on the east.
During a visit to the river, tourists can admire the Yangpu Bridge, the Nanpu Bridge, and the Oriental Pearl Tower, which stands in the heart of the city. The two bridges, resembling two giant dragons stretching across the Huangpu River, frame the Oriental Pearl Tower in the center, creating a stunning visual metaphor of "two dragons playing with a pearl."
On the west bank of the Huangpu River, visitors are greeted by a collection of grand, foreign-style buildings, known for their diverse architectural influences from around the world. On the east bank, in stark contrast, towering modern skyscrapers rise into the sky, symbolizing Shanghai’s rapid development into a global financial hub.
Wusongkou, located at the mouth of the river, marks the point where the Huangpu River converges with the Yangtze River and the East China Sea. During high tide, one can witness the famous "Three-Water Convergence" phenomenon, where the Huangpu River’s bluish-gray waters, the muddy yellow waters of the Yangtze, and the green waters of the East China Sea mix together, creating a striking display of yellow, green, and blue hues.
The Huangpu River serves multiple functions: it is vital for shipping, water supply, drainage, irrigation, and tourism. As one of the world’s most renowned rivers, it is both a product of nature’s transformative power and a testament to humanity’s successful practice of harnessing the river’s natural flow to serve the needs of a growing city.
Yu Garden
The garden was originally established as a private estate by Pan Yunduan, a distinguished official from Sichuan, to provide his retired father, Pan En, with a serene and tranquil retreat. After over two decades of meticulous planning and construction, Yu Garden was completed in 1577. The name "Yu" symbolizes peace and tranquility, reflecting the garden's purpose of offering solace and serenity to Pan En during his retirement years. By the late Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden had gained recognition as one of the most exquisite gardens in Southeast China.
Yu Garden exemplifies the classical Jiangnan garden style, characterized by its intricate and refined design that seamlessly integrates natural and architectural elements. The garden boasts meandering pathways, exquisite pavilions, stunning rockeries, tranquil koi ponds, and ancient trees all thoughtfully arranged to create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Additionally, it houses an impressive collection of cultural treasures including Ming and Qing dynasty furniture, renowned calligraphy and paintings, elaborate brick carvings as well as traditional stone sculptures.
The Yulinglong Stone, one of the renowned rocks in Jiangnan, and Dianchuntang, which served as the headquarters during the Taiping Rebellion in 1853, are among the prominent features of this garden. Additionally, visitors can explore the adjacent City God Temple and vibrant shopping streets, further enhancing its appeal as a popular tourist destination.
Yu Garden opened to the public in 1961 and was designated a national key cultural heritage site in 1982. Today, it remains a must-visit attraction for those seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of traditional Chinese garden design.
The Jade Buddha Temple
Known for its vibrant spiritual atmosphere, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the most visited and beloved temples in Shanghai. While Longhua Temple is known for fulfilling wishes related to career success, and Jing'an Temple is sought for blessings of peace, the Jade Buddha Temple is famous for helping people with wishes for wealth and love. A visit to the Jade Buddha Temple wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its treasures—the Jade Buddha and the Sitting Buddha, which have been prized by visitors since their arrival from Southeast Asia over a century ago.
At the heart of the temple is the magnificent Jade Buddha, a serene and life-sized statue carved from a single block of jade. Alongside it, visitors can find five other Buddha statues, each radiating peace and grace. The Jade Buddha Temple has undergone multiple restorations and expansions over the years, including the relocation of the Grand Buddha Hall and the construction of the Bell and Drum Towers. These additions have enriched the temple’s cultural and artistic legacy.
Occupying an area of approximately 11.6 acres, the Jade Buddha Temple features a layout based on traditional Chinese temple architecture. The temple’s main axis is home to three grand halls, with additional structures on both the east and west sides. The temple not only holds a special place in the hearts of Shanghai’s Buddhist community but is also a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. It is recognized as one of the top ten tourist attractions in Shanghai and is listed as a key Buddhist site and a protected city monument.
In 1918, the temple was rebuilt on its present site under the guidance of Master Kecheng from the Linji school. The new structure, designed to emulate the architectural style of Song Dynasty temples, was completed after ten years of dedicated work. The complex includes a Buddha hall, pagodas, kitchens, and other traditional temple buildings, with over 200 rooms in total.
The original Jade Buddha Temple was established in 1900, near the Wusong River Bay Railway Station, under the leadership of Master Ben Zhao, a disciple of Huigen. However, the temple was destroyed during the upheaval of the 1911 Revolution, leaving only the precious Jade Buddha untouched. For a time, the statue was housed in a villa on Shendan Road (now Weian Road), before the decision was made to rebuild the temple at its current location.
Founded in 1882 by Master Huigen, the temple originally housed five jade Buddhas brought from Myanmar by the master himself. Of these, two were enshrined in Shanghai, and it is these statues that have made the temple famous.
Nestled at 170 Anyuan Road in the Putuo District of Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of the city’s most revered spiritual landmarks. As its name suggests, the temple is home to the sacred Jade Buddha, a symbol of serenity and wisdom. Belonging to the Linji school of Chan Buddhism, the temple is not only a place of worship but also a center for meditation and spiritual practice.
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is a preeminent institution in China, celebrated for its vast collection of over 120,000 invaluable cultural artifacts. Its extensive and exceptional assortment, particularly in the areas of bronze ware, ceramics, calligraphy, and painting has garnered international recognition.
Founded in 1952, the museum initially operated at 325 Nanjing West Road. In 1959, it relocated to a more spacious venue at 16 Henan South Road, where it continued its progressive growth and development. In 1992, the Shanghai government made the strategic decision to construct a new museum in the heart of the city, situated in the prime location of People's Square. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new museum building took place in 1993 and it was officially inaugurated on October 12, 1996.
The new building of the Shanghai Museum spans a total area of 39,200 square meters and stands at a height of 29.5 meters. The distinctive combination of a round dome and square base, symbolizing the concept of "Heaven is round and Earth is square," creates an aesthetically captivating effect. The design seamlessly integrates traditional cultural elements with modern architecture, establishing it as a truly unique and iconic structure among global museums.
The museum accommodates 11 permanent galleries and three exhibition halls. The architectural layout encompasses six functional areas, including exhibition spaces, storage facilities, academic and research zones, management offices, and supporting amenities. Within the premises are 12 thematic exhibition rooms showcasing a wide array of treasures such as bronze artifacts, ceramics, calligraphy masterpieces, and paintings. Additionally, the exhibits encompass coins, jade pieces, sculptures, seals as well as crafts from various ethnic minorities.
The museum's total exhibition space is 12,000 square meters, distributed across four floors. The first floor features the Ancient Chinese Bronze Gallery, Ancient Chinese Sculpture Gallery, and Exhibition Hall. The second floor showcases the Ancient Chinese Ceramics Gallery and the temporary Ceramics Gallery. The third floor is dedicated to the Calligraphy Gallery, Painting Gallery, and Seals Gallery. The fourth floor exhibits the Ancient Chinese Jade Gallery, Coin Gallery, Ming and Qing Furniture Gallery, and the Ethnic Minority Craft Gallery.
Shanghai Jinmao Tower
Standing proudly at 88 Century Avenue in the heart of Shanghai’s Lujiazui Financial District, the Shanghai Jin Mao Tower is a true marvel of modern engineering and design. Located in the bustling center of the city, the tower offers breathtaking views to the east over the Pudong New Area, to the west over downtown Shanghai and the Huangpu River, and to the south toward the vibrant commercial hub of Zhang Yang Road. To the north, it overlooks the expansive 100,000-square-meter central green space.
The Jin Mao Tower occupies 24,000 square meters of land, with a total building area of 290,000 square meters. The towering 88-story main structure rises to a height of 420.5 meters, with approximately 200,000 square meters of space. Its sleek, modern design features a stunning tapering shape, symbolizing both architectural elegance and strength. The tower’s six-story podium covers 32,000 square meters, while the three underground levels span 57,000 square meters. The building’s striking exterior is enveloped in an aluminum alloy lattice, giving it a contemporary yet timeless appeal.
Inside, the Jin Mao Tower is as spectacular as its exterior. The first two floors house the grand lobby, while floors 3 to 50 feature expansive, column-free office spaces with a ceiling height of 4 meters and a net height of 2.7 meters. The upper floors—51 to 52—house essential mechanical and electrical systems, while the 53rd to 87th floors are home to a luxurious hotel. The 88th floor boasts an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Designed by the renowned Chicago-based architectural firm SOM, with Adrian Smith as the lead designer, the Jin Mao Tower combines cutting-edge global architectural trends with traditional Chinese design elements. The building is an engineering masterpiece, with a vertical deviation of only 2 centimeters and the ability to withstand winds of up to level 12 and earthquakes of magnitude 7.
The tower’s exterior is characterized by large glass panels that reflect ever-changing hues—shifting from silver to shades of blue and green. Between the two layers of glass, a low-temperature conductor ensures the interior remains insulated from the outdoor elements.
Inside, the grand lobby features a striking archway design and walls clad in Mediterranean-style perforated marble for both aesthetic and soundproofing purposes. The polished marble floors gleam without being overly shiny, while the main hallway leading to the banquet hall is an artistic corridor showcasing Chinese calligraphy and copper reliefs that depict the evolution of Chinese script, from ancient oracle bone inscriptions to modern-day characters.
At the top of the Jin Mao Tower, the 88th floor offers the “Cloud Walk”—a 60-meter-long, 1.2-meter-wide transparent skywalk, the highest of its kind in the world. This glass walkway allows visitors to experience Shanghai from a breathtaking 340.1 meters above ground level, walking in the clouds and enjoying an unparalleled view of the city below.
Since its completion, the Jin Mao Tower has garnered numerous accolades, including the Illinois World Architecture Award in 1998 and the Shanghai Classic Architecture Gold Award in 1999. It also achieved LEED-EB certification in 2013 and was named one of the "Top Ten New Landmarks in Shanghai" in 2020.
A true symbol of Shanghai's dynamic growth, the Jin Mao Tower remains a must-see destination for those who wish to experience the cutting-edge of modern architecture while soaking in the rich cultural and historical essence of one of the world’s most exciting cities.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Standing at a towering height of 468 meters (1,536 feet), the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is not only the tallest TV tower in Asia but also the third tallest in the world. It ranks behind the 553.3-meter-high CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the 540-meter-high Ostankino Tower in Moscow, Russia. Located in the heart of Pudong’s Lujiazui district, the tower has become a symbol of Shanghai, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Its unique design, featuring 15 spheres of varying sizes at different heights, creates a striking and futuristic appearance.
The tower's design is said to be inspired by a famous Chinese poetic line, "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate," evoking an image of pearls scattered across a jade surface. From its observation deck, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the bustling city, the Huangpu River, and beyond. The revolving restaurant and the expansive sightseeing platform can accommodate up to 1,600 people, offering an unparalleled experience in the sky.
Construction of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower began in 1992, with an initial investment of 50 million Yuan from the government. An additional 150 million Yuan and 10 million US Dollars were raised through bank loans from 44 banks. The tower was completed and opened to the public in 1994. It is affectionately known in China as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl," a reference to its striking design, with two massive spheres at the base and a large pearl-like structure at the top.
In 1995, the tower began broadcasting, hosting nine television channels and 10 FM radio stations. Over the years, it has become a major hub for media and telecommunications, in addition to being a top tourist destination.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers a wide range of amenities for visitors. At a height of 263 meters, the observation deck provides breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline. You can also visit the futuristic "Space City" exhibition hall and the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, located in the tower's base. This museum showcases the history of the city, including its transformation from a small fishing village to one of the world’s leading metropolises.
The large lower sphere of the tower features various attractions, including the "Science Fantasy City" and the "Recreational Palace." On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a view stretching all the way to the Yangtze River from the sightseeing hall. In addition to the observation areas, the tower houses a hotel with 25 elegant rooms in the smaller spheres, offering a relaxing place for visitors to stay.
At the very top of the tower is a large pearl-shaped structure, home to a rotating restaurant, shops, and additional viewing platforms. This iconic structure provides guests with a unique dining experience while enjoying Shanghai’s spectacular skyline.
Over the past decade, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, including 295 overseas heads of state and dignitaries. This immense popularity has made it one of the most profitable TV towers globally. In fact, its annual revenue has exceeded that of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
According to the World Brand Lab, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower ranked 96th among the 500 most valuable Chinese brands, with a brand value of 5.148 billion Yuan (approximately 6.2 billion USD). It has consistently been one of the top 20 most influential Chinese brands on the global stage in recent years.
The tower’s combination of cutting-edge technology, breathtaking views, and cultural significance has made it a must-visit attraction in Shanghai and a proud symbol of China's modern achievements.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower stands as a monumental achievement in both architecture and engineering, symbolizing Shanghai's vibrant future while honoring its rich history. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring the interactive exhibits, or dining in the sky, the tower promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Children’s Palace
Chengdu
Highlights
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
With two clean rivers running through and two green hills decorating, Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) Historic Interest Area, an ancient town full of ancient cultural architectures and custom, appeals to an increasing number of tourists from near and far. Huanglong Historic Interest Area consists of three charming parts that are free for visiting, namely the Custom Street, the Dragon Street and the core zone.
Along the Custom Street, various magnificent architectures built in different times will be a sumptuous art feast for the eyes, and the beautiful and yummy local snacks will increase your appetite greatly and make you reluctant to leave. Having traveled around the Custom Street, you will be attracted by the next station--Dragon Street, where there is a clean stream zigzagging through just like a water dragon. Along the both banks of the dragon stream, teahouses, local restaurants and specialties stores rank orderly like a comb.
Crossing the stone bridge, you will reach the core zone where the most shinning cultural heritages are waiting for you. The fish-skeleton-like lanes, the centuries-old dock and the ancient temples with old banyans around and street full of ancient local customs will be a memorable experience in your expedition. If you come here on the local festivals, the lovely local celebrations will amaze you a lot.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 16:30
Ticket Price: free
Location: 40 km (25 miles) away from the city center of Chengdu
Transportation:
Shuttle bus from New South Gate (xin nan men) Station will bring you here directly (10 CNY).
Emei Mountain
Consisting of four mountains with the peak of 3099 meters and covering 154 square km, E-mei Mountain is praised as the finest mountain under heaven for the rarely seen picturesque landscapes in the precipitous topography. With two rivers circling, E-mei possesses marvelous scenes--the long peaceful valley, the curtain-like rushing waterfalls, the flourishing trees and blooming flowers—together with which the Buddhist temples form a beautiful picture.
Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base
Speaking of the panda, the phrase “National Treasure of China” will hit our minds. Panda is a kind of precious wild animal species that requires a demanding living environment. Therefore, China set up many Breeding and Research Bases to provide an ideal and most suitable natural living circumstance for the Chinese Giant Panda, the base in Sichuan Province is included.
Leshan Giant Buddha
As the largest stone sculpture of Buddha in the world, the Leshan Giant Buddha, sitting at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers, costs 90 years to complete. The idea of the creation of the giant Buddha sculpture is out of the popularity of the Buddhist in Tang Dynasty.
Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage
Du Fu, a celebrated poet in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), has left behind over 200 masterpieces of peoms for the later generations. Du Fu is known for the patriotism and his brilliant in poem. The most important factor of all about his work is compassion, which was especially inspirational for his fans.
As its name implies, the Thatched Cottage of Du Fu was Du Fu’s home a thousand years ago, while it is not so much a cottage as a museum that attracts numerous visitors. The exhibits here include a brief account of Du Fu's life and some of his original calligraphy and poems. The complex also contains three imposing statues of some of China's greatest poets; Du Fu, Li You and Huang Tingjian (the latter two were Song dynasty poets). Today, this is a pleasant site to visit, with nice buildings dotted about, teahouses and pleasant bamboo gardens to wander and explore. This site is also home to the Chengdu Du Fu society. The Thatched Cottage of Du Fu stretches out its arms to welcome visitors from all over the world.
A garden-like museum full of cultural breath is for showing people how brilliant and celebrated Du Fu is and for making your amazing expedition meaningful.
Opening Hours:
8:00 -- 18:00 (in winter)
7:30 -- 19:00 (in summer)
Ticket Price:
60 CNY for adults
30 CNY for students
Free for the people holding the local Older Card and the non-local people older than 70
Location: No. 38, Tsinghua Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 17, 35, 82, 84 and 301 will bring you here directly.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, constructed in Qin Dynasty around 2,200 years ago, is a shinning pearl in the irrigation development of China, which is also praised as the “Originator of the Culture in Irrigation Work”. As the earliest irrigation work without dam in the ancient China, Dujiangyan has been making the greatest contribution to the development of the economy in Chengdu--the land of abundance.Having witnessed centuries’ changes, the gorgeous Dujiangyan likes a record of the history attracting a growing number of tourists with the picturesque and splendid landscape. On November 29, 2000, Dujiangyan was listed as the world cultural heritage by UNESCO. Nowadays, Dujiangyan is not only the irrigation work, but also a popular scenic spot with many charming sceneries around--just like many stars twinkling around the moon.
The characterized members of the stars are the fish-mouth-like dyke--can solve the problem of irrigation in drought seasons, the bottle-neck-like sluice gate--can control the volume of inflowing water, the vent-like Feishayan--can release flood and silt from waterway to outer river, the 500-meter-long Anlan Suspension Bridge (called Couple’s Bridge)--has experienced hundreds years’ history since Song dynasty (960-1234), the garden-like Erwang-Temple with peaceful environment, and the 1800-year-old Dragon-Taming Temple.
Opening Hours: 09:00 -- 17:50
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for adults
45 CNY for kids between 1.1-1.4 meter, people between 60-69 years, the disabled and the students
Location: West Dujiangyan City, Sichuan
Transportation: Shuttle buses, subway and bus No. 1 to No. 17, 101, 102, 103, 201 and 202 will bring you here directly.
Wangjiang Pavilion
Wangjiang Pavilion with a height of 39 meters is the most shinning architecture in the Wangjiang Park that covered by green bamboo woods. Wangjiang Pavilion, built in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), was designed as an octagonal shape with the overhanging eaves, sharp golden roof, and various exquisite figure carvings and clay sculptures of animals decorating each floor. Located on the bank of Jinjiang River, Wangjiang Pavilion provides an ideal angle for river viewing, from which it derived the present name “Wangjiang Lou”.
This splendid pavilion was built in memory of Xue Tao, a brilliant female poet in Tang Dynasty who has left behind many great poems. There are more than 100 kinds of bamboo around the Wangjiang Pavilion for Xue Tao has a passion for bamboo in her life. Around the Wangjiang Pivilion, out lay a group of memorial buildings including Wuyunxiang Hall, Quanxiang chamber, Pipa pavilion among which there are house a large amount of steles, paintings, calligraphy, inscribed couplets and poems.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Wangjiang Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 3, 18, 19, 31 and 35 will bring you here directly.
Wuhou Memorial Temple
Covering 37,000 square meters, Wuhou Memorial Temple was built in the year of 233 in memory of Zhuge Liang, the most brilliant military counselor in the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280). Inside the temple, the magnificent and exquisitely designed buildings are hiding in the flourishingly towering pine trees, creating a historic environment with a strong breath of history.
In the exhibition zone, there are a lot of valuable historic relics, including the well-known couplets created by Du Fu, exquisite carvings and sophisticated stone inscriptions, the precious works of calligraphy and painting, the statuses of the celebrities in Three Kingdoms Period as well as the room with the original appearance in which Zhuge Liang lived. The exhibitions may cause an amazing feeling likes being back to the Three Kingdoms Period.
The temple displays the suppleness of the Chinese garden. There are numerous historical relics like horizontal cribbed boards, couplets, inscribed tablets, penmanship, furnaces, Chinese tripods, etc. The SanZui (Three-Best) horizontal inscribed board, Zhuge Liang's Lung Gun couplets, Chu Si Biao and the tomb of LiuBei are the most famous one. Today the Wuhou Temple is the most famous tourist attraction of Chengdu city. It is not only a site for people to commemorate Zhuge Liang, but also serves as a museum to the history of the Three Kingdoms Period.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 60 CNY
Location: No. 231, Wuhouci Street, Chengdu City
Transportation:
Bus No.1, 10, 57, 82, 301, 334, 335, 503, 521, 901 and 904 will bring you here directly.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
With two clean rivers running through and two green hills decorating, Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) Historic Interest Area, an ancient town full of ancient cultural architectures and custom, appeals to an increasing number of tourists from near and far. Huanglong Historic Interest Area consists of three charming parts that are free for visiting, namely the Custom Street, the Dragon Street and the core zone.
Along the Custom Street, various magnificent architectures built in different times will be a sumptuous art feast for the eyes, and the beautiful and yummy local snacks will increase your appetite greatly and make you reluctant to leave. Having traveled around the Custom Street, you will be attracted by the next station--Dragon Street, where there is a clean stream zigzagging through just like a water dragon. Along the both banks of the dragon stream, teahouses, local restaurants and specialties stores rank orderly like a comb.
Crossing the stone bridge, you will reach the core zone where the most shinning cultural heritages are waiting for you. The fish-skeleton-like lanes, the centuries-old dock and the ancient temples with old banyans around and street full of ancient local customs will be a memorable experience in your expedition. If you come here on the local festivals, the lovely local celebrations will amaze you a lot.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 16:30
Ticket Price: free
Location: 40 km (25 miles) away from the city center of Chengdu
Transportation:
Shuttle bus from New South Gate (xin nan men) Station will bring you here directly (10 CNY).
Emei Mountain
Consisting of four mountains with the peak of 3099 meters and covering 154 square km, E-mei Mountain is praised as the finest mountain under heaven for the rarely seen picturesque landscapes in the precipitous topography. With two rivers circling, E-mei possesses marvelous scenes--the long peaceful valley, the curtain-like rushing waterfalls, the flourishing trees and blooming flowers—together with which the Buddhist temples form a beautiful picture.
Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base
Speaking of the panda, the phrase “National Treasure of China” will hit our minds. Panda is a kind of precious wild animal species that requires a demanding living environment. Therefore, China set up many Breeding and Research Bases to provide an ideal and most suitable natural living circumstance for the Chinese Giant Panda, the base in Sichuan Province is included.
Leshan Giant Buddha
As the largest stone sculpture of Buddha in the world, the Leshan Giant Buddha, sitting at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers, costs 90 years to complete. The idea of the creation of the giant Buddha sculpture is out of the popularity of the Buddhist in Tang Dynasty.
Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage
Du Fu, a celebrated poet in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), has left behind over 200 masterpieces of peoms for the later generations. Du Fu is known for the patriotism and his brilliant in poem. The most important factor of all about his work is compassion, which was especially inspirational for his fans.
As its name implies, the Thatched Cottage of Du Fu was Du Fu’s home a thousand years ago, while it is not so much a cottage as a museum that attracts numerous visitors. The exhibits here include a brief account of Du Fu's life and some of his original calligraphy and poems. The complex also contains three imposing statues of some of China's greatest poets; Du Fu, Li You and Huang Tingjian (the latter two were Song dynasty poets). Today, this is a pleasant site to visit, with nice buildings dotted about, teahouses and pleasant bamboo gardens to wander and explore. This site is also home to the Chengdu Du Fu society. The Thatched Cottage of Du Fu stretches out its arms to welcome visitors from all over the world.
A garden-like museum full of cultural breath is for showing people how brilliant and celebrated Du Fu is and for making your amazing expedition meaningful.
Opening Hours:
8:00 -- 18:00 (in winter)
7:30 -- 19:00 (in summer)
Ticket Price:
60 CNY for adults
30 CNY for students
Free for the people holding the local Older Card and the non-local people older than 70
Location: No. 38, Tsinghua Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 17, 35, 82, 84 and 301 will bring you here directly.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, constructed in Qin Dynasty around 2,200 years ago, is a shinning pearl in the irrigation development of China, which is also praised as the “Originator of the Culture in Irrigation Work”. As the earliest irrigation work without dam in the ancient China, Dujiangyan has been making the greatest contribution to the development of the economy in Chengdu--the land of abundance.Having witnessed centuries’ changes, the gorgeous Dujiangyan likes a record of the history attracting a growing number of tourists with the picturesque and splendid landscape. On November 29, 2000, Dujiangyan was listed as the world cultural heritage by UNESCO. Nowadays, Dujiangyan is not only the irrigation work, but also a popular scenic spot with many charming sceneries around--just like many stars twinkling around the moon.
The characterized members of the stars are the fish-mouth-like dyke--can solve the problem of irrigation in drought seasons, the bottle-neck-like sluice gate--can control the volume of inflowing water, the vent-like Feishayan--can release flood and silt from waterway to outer river, the 500-meter-long Anlan Suspension Bridge (called Couple’s Bridge)--has experienced hundreds years’ history since Song dynasty (960-1234), the garden-like Erwang-Temple with peaceful environment, and the 1800-year-old Dragon-Taming Temple.
Opening Hours: 09:00 -- 17:50
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for adults
45 CNY for kids between 1.1-1.4 meter, people between 60-69 years, the disabled and the students
Location: West Dujiangyan City, Sichuan
Transportation: Shuttle buses, subway and bus No. 1 to No. 17, 101, 102, 103, 201 and 202 will bring you here directly.
Wangjiang Pavilion
Wangjiang Pavilion with a height of 39 meters is the most shinning architecture in the Wangjiang Park that covered by green bamboo woods. Wangjiang Pavilion, built in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), was designed as an octagonal shape with the overhanging eaves, sharp golden roof, and various exquisite figure carvings and clay sculptures of animals decorating each floor. Located on the bank of Jinjiang River, Wangjiang Pavilion provides an ideal angle for river viewing, from which it derived the present name “Wangjiang Lou”.
This splendid pavilion was built in memory of Xue Tao, a brilliant female poet in Tang Dynasty who has left behind many great poems. There are more than 100 kinds of bamboo around the Wangjiang Pavilion for Xue Tao has a passion for bamboo in her life. Around the Wangjiang Pivilion, out lay a group of memorial buildings including Wuyunxiang Hall, Quanxiang chamber, Pipa pavilion among which there are house a large amount of steles, paintings, calligraphy, inscribed couplets and poems.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Wangjiang Road, Chengdu City
Transportation: Bus No. 3, 18, 19, 31 and 35 will bring you here directly.
Wuhou Memorial Temple
Covering 37,000 square meters, Wuhou Memorial Temple was built in the year of 233 in memory of Zhuge Liang, the most brilliant military counselor in the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280). Inside the temple, the magnificent and exquisitely designed buildings are hiding in the flourishingly towering pine trees, creating a historic environment with a strong breath of history.
In the exhibition zone, there are a lot of valuable historic relics, including the well-known couplets created by Du Fu, exquisite carvings and sophisticated stone inscriptions, the precious works of calligraphy and painting, the statuses of the celebrities in Three Kingdoms Period as well as the room with the original appearance in which Zhuge Liang lived. The exhibitions may cause an amazing feeling likes being back to the Three Kingdoms Period.
The temple displays the suppleness of the Chinese garden. There are numerous historical relics like horizontal cribbed boards, couplets, inscribed tablets, penmanship, furnaces, Chinese tripods, etc. The SanZui (Three-Best) horizontal inscribed board, Zhuge Liang's Lung Gun couplets, Chu Si Biao and the tomb of LiuBei are the most famous one. Today the Wuhou Temple is the most famous tourist attraction of Chengdu city. It is not only a site for people to commemorate Zhuge Liang, but also serves as a museum to the history of the Three Kingdoms Period.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 60 CNY
Location: No. 231, Wuhouci Street, Chengdu City
Transportation:
Bus No.1, 10, 57, 82, 301, 334, 335, 503, 521, 901 and 904 will bring you here directly.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
With two clean rivers running through and two green hills decorating, Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) Historic Interest Area, an ancient town full of ancient cultural architectures and custom, appeals to an increasing number of tourists from near and far. Huanglong Historic Interest Area consists of three charming parts that are free for visiting, namely the Custom Street, the Dragon Street and the core zone.
Along the Custom Street, various magnificent architectures built in different times will be a sumptuous art feast for the eyes, and the beautiful and yummy local snacks will increase your appetite greatly and make you reluctant to leave. Having traveled around the Custom Street, you will be attracted by the next station--Dragon Street, where there is a clean stream zigzagging through just like a water dragon. Along the both banks of the dragon stream, teahouses, local restaurants and specialties stores rank orderly like a comb.
Crossing the stone bridge, you will reach the core zone where the most shinning cultural heritages are waiting for you. The fish-skeleton-like lanes, the centuries-old dock and the ancient temples with old banyans around and street full of ancient local customs will be a memorable experience in your expedition. If you come here on the local festivals, the lovely local celebrations will amaze you a lot.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 16:30
Ticket Price: free
Location: 40 km (25 miles) away from the city center of Chengdu
Transportation:
Shuttle bus from New South Gate (xin nan men) Station will bring you here directly (10 CNY).
Emei Mountain
Consisting of four mountains with the peak of 3099 meters and covering 154 square km, E-mei Mountain is praised as the finest mountain under heaven for the rarely seen picturesque landscapes in the precipitous topography. With two rivers circling, E-mei possesses marvelous scenes--the long peaceful valley, the curtain-like rushing waterfalls, the flourishing trees and blooming flowers—together with which the Buddhist temples form a beautiful picture.
Jiuzhaigou
Highlights
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Shuzheng Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the beneath branch is the Shuzheng Valley, while the right is the Rize Valley and the left is the Zechawa Vallay.
Rize Valley Tour Route
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Shuzheng Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the beneath branch is the Shuzheng Valley, while the right is the Rize Valley and the left is the Zechawa Vallay.
Rize Valley Tour Route
Zechawa Valley Tour Route
The distribution of the scenic spots in Jiuzhaigou is like the letter “Y”, in which the left branch is the Zachawa Vallay while the right is the Rize Valley and the beneath is the Shuzheng Valley.
Zharu Valley Tour Route
Zharu Valley is a valley that far away from pollution and with well-preserved Tibetan traditional culture, where you can enjoy the purely natural sceneries and experience the traditional customs. The white clouds overhead, the charming mountains, the running streams, the flourishing trees, the colorful wild fruits and blossoming flowers all are of the beauty of the original.
The Magic Mirror Cliff erects there, seen in the distance it is like a huge screen, while it is like a smooth mirror when seen closer. It is said that all the wishes people made in front of this magic mirror cliff can come true, which is a reflection of how the Tibetans hold their faith.
The 3 km long Zharu Horse Trail is the best place for picturesque sightseeing on the horse and the road where the local Tibetans should go through to worship on every 15 of the lunar month. Therefore, it is a lovely place where you can experience the real local customs. The Zharu Bridge, crossing on the Jade River and linking two huge mountains, is built in a typical Tibetan wooden bridge style.
Surrounded by towering old trees, the Zharu Monastery is like a pearl in the center of a green lake. Inside the monastery, the religious banners are waving in the winds and people come from far and near are praying. Facing the Magic Mirror Cliff, Zharu Monastery seems more gorgeous and wonderful.
Location: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
Lijiang
Highlights
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
The Ancient Town of Lijiang
In the vast China, there are four intact-preserved ancient towns, and the ancient town of Lijiang is a shinning member of it. Unlike the other ancient towns, the Lijiang ancient town is open without any town walls that will make the town more mysterious, while the blue marble stone pathways winding along the town would bring you back to the history.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Hailed as the Oriental Grand Canyon, the Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiaoxia) is, to some extent, more attractive than the Grand Canyon. It is the most precipitous gorge in the vast China with an altitude difference of 3000 meters that is 600 meters more than that of the Grand Canyon. Therefore, the waterfalls here are amazingly marvelous, the stones here are surprisingly bizarre and landscapes on the cliffs here are spectacularly wonderful, all of which make Tiger Leaping Gorge a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
Tiger Leaping Gorge with a splendid view of the swift turbulent current of the Golden River is formed through constant cutting by the waters between Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Mountain. Spanning 17 kilometers long, the gorge, consists of the Upper Gorge, the Middle Gorge and the Lower Gorge, drops about 300 meters in a series of 18 rapids. The Lower Gorge is the most awe - inspiring part of all. The gorge, where the Golden Sand River pounds furiously at its rocky shores in an awesome fashion, sending up skilful of white froth, is a dream place for adventurers.
Seen from the bridge, the marvelous geological wonder, two huge mountains leaning close to each other and a large volume of fast moving water between them cutting deeper and deeper into the bottom of the gorge, will be more splendid. In addition, there is a drop of 3000 meters to the water, a beautiful and surprising place to go for photography.
Embraced by the arms of the picturesque Cangshan Mountain and guarded by an 8-meter-tall and 3.5-kilometer-long wall, the 600-year-old city of Dali was first built in 1683 and is characterized by the ancient stonewalls, grey tiled roofs, doors and windows carved with dragon and phoenix partners and gardens of varying sizes. The entire city is covered by a maze of streams, fed by runoffs from the Cangshan Mountain. Hence, the saying the gurgling of water can be heard in every house and flowers are planted in every family.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 50 CNY
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang City
Transportation: Bus from Lijiang Bus Station and taxi will bring you here.
Lugu Lake
Lying in the flourishing forests far away from the pollution, Lugu Lake, covers 50 square kilometers with thousands square kilometers of lawns, is like a pearl inlayed in the plateau. With seven islands on the lake, the largest freshwater lake in Sichuan, seen from a bird’s eye of view, looks like a flying eagle with wings spreading.
Yufeng Monastery (Yufeng Si )
Built at the foot of the Yufeng Mountain in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), the Yufeng Monastery has experienced more than 400 years of history. What may amaze you most is the huge old camellia that planted in Ming Dynasty (1364-1644), 100 years earlier than the construction of the monastery. This camellia is praised as the King of the Camellia for the marvelous size of it.
From the beginning of the spring to the beginning of summer, the camellia will be fully blooming for 20 times without breaking off just like a peacock showing off her tail, and the amount of the flowers blooming at each time is more than 1000, therefore there are surprisingly 20,000 flowers blooming every year. This magic camellia is said to be improved through grafting, so the flowers blooming on this 2-meter-tall camellia are as large as a plate.
On the arrival of the spring, people will come all the way from near and far to have a close look at this huge camellia blooming under the reflecting of the gorgeous Yulong Mountain with the snow as the coat.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Yulong Mt., Lijiang City
Transportation: Taxi from Lijiang will bring you here.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xue Shan )
With an average altitude of 4000, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (yu long xue shan) is the wonderful place with marvelous spectacles in the challenging environment. Ganhaizi is a piece of vast grassland in the east with beautiful sceneries that provides a good angle for people to enjoy the entire sight of the Jade Dragon Snow Mt. White River, originates from the Jade Dragon Snow Mt., is a crystal-like river flowing along the Mt.. Yunshanping, a virgin forest with abundant rare natural resources, is the holy land of the Naxi people. All of them make Jade Dragon Snow Mountain a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
The mountains western flanks drop steeply to the Upper Yangtze River (Jinsha Jiang), helping to form magnificent, deep gorges, and the highest peak is Shanzidou. The summit, Shanzidou, is 5596 meters above sea level. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China.
She is a botanist's paradise and a "kingdom of medicinal materials". Of the 13,000 kinds of plants in Yunnan, more than half of them can be found on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as well as 400 types of trees in 20 primeval forest communities. From April to June the azaleas turn the mountain into a riot of brilliant color. In autumn, blue rough gentian flowers cover her marshlands. She is decorated with blooming flowers 10 months of the year.
The mountain is also a sanctuary for animals, many of them rare animals that live at different temperature levels. She is home to 30 kinds of animals protected by the state, such as the wild ass, the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, the lesser panda, the forest musk deer, the clouded leopard, the blood pheasant, the silver pheasant, and the spotted, yellowish civet cat.
She has attracted the attention of many scholars and travelers. Early in 1837, the French writer Bacier introduced Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in his acclaimed book "Universe". And seven years ago the chairman of the international Mountainous Region led a team to the mountain for field work.
In Lijiang City, you can have a magnificent view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the main peak thrust into the clouds, the Old Man Peak standing out on the right and Black Snow Peak on its left.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 16:00
Ticket Price:
190 CNY
80 CNY for the kids below 1.1 m
Location: 15 km away from the Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 7 (15 CNY) and taxi (100 CNY) will bring you here.
Baisha Mural
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
The mural group consists of more than 10 small groups, the amount of mural in all of which is up to 550. Those gorgeous murals with various styles, which are telling the stories of the religious belief and social life of the local, are a blooming intelligent show that you must visit.
Located in Baisha Township, 8km north of the seat of the Lijiang Naxi Nationality Autonomous County, the mural is a rich fusion that had resulted in a tremendously powerful art, heavy in spirit and awe-inspiring in its presentation of the mystical world. Dominated by black, silver, dark green, gold and red colors, the murals in the back hall, overlaid with centuries of brown soot, are bizarre, the scenes and figures, some still vivid in detail, are largely taken from Tibetan Buddhist iconography and include the wheel of life, judges of the underworld, the damned, titans and gods, Buddha and bodhisattvas. There are trigrams, lotus flowers and even Sanskrit inscriptions on the ceiling. The deliberate damage done to the paintings is apparent and terrible, but the loss of the irreplaceable wooden statuary that filled the temple, of which there is no trace, is even more tragic.
These mural paintings, with their fine and smooth lines, bright colors, vivid pattern and balanced and harmonious composition are a wonderful sight that is not only crucial to the history of Chinese painting, but also important to cultural heritage relics.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 40 CNY
Location: 12 km away from Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 6 from Lijiang will bring you here.
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
The Ancient Town of Lijiang
In the vast China, there are four intact-preserved ancient towns, and the ancient town of Lijiang is a shinning member of it. Unlike the other ancient towns, the Lijiang ancient town is open without any town walls that will make the town more mysterious, while the blue marble stone pathways winding along the town would bring you back to the history.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Hailed as the Oriental Grand Canyon, the Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiaoxia) is, to some extent, more attractive than the Grand Canyon. It is the most precipitous gorge in the vast China with an altitude difference of 3000 meters that is 600 meters more than that of the Grand Canyon. Therefore, the waterfalls here are amazingly marvelous, the stones here are surprisingly bizarre and landscapes on the cliffs here are spectacularly wonderful, all of which make Tiger Leaping Gorge a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
Tiger Leaping Gorge with a splendid view of the swift turbulent current of the Golden River is formed through constant cutting by the waters between Jade Dragon Mountain and Haba Mountain. Spanning 17 kilometers long, the gorge, consists of the Upper Gorge, the Middle Gorge and the Lower Gorge, drops about 300 meters in a series of 18 rapids. The Lower Gorge is the most awe - inspiring part of all. The gorge, where the Golden Sand River pounds furiously at its rocky shores in an awesome fashion, sending up skilful of white froth, is a dream place for adventurers.
Seen from the bridge, the marvelous geological wonder, two huge mountains leaning close to each other and a large volume of fast moving water between them cutting deeper and deeper into the bottom of the gorge, will be more splendid. In addition, there is a drop of 3000 meters to the water, a beautiful and surprising place to go for photography.
Embraced by the arms of the picturesque Cangshan Mountain and guarded by an 8-meter-tall and 3.5-kilometer-long wall, the 600-year-old city of Dali was first built in 1683 and is characterized by the ancient stonewalls, grey tiled roofs, doors and windows carved with dragon and phoenix partners and gardens of varying sizes. The entire city is covered by a maze of streams, fed by runoffs from the Cangshan Mountain. Hence, the saying the gurgling of water can be heard in every house and flowers are planted in every family.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 50 CNY
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang City
Transportation: Bus from Lijiang Bus Station and taxi will bring you here.
Lugu Lake
Lying in the flourishing forests far away from the pollution, Lugu Lake, covers 50 square kilometers with thousands square kilometers of lawns, is like a pearl inlayed in the plateau. With seven islands on the lake, the largest freshwater lake in Sichuan, seen from a bird’s eye of view, looks like a flying eagle with wings spreading.
Yufeng Monastery (Yufeng Si )
Built at the foot of the Yufeng Mountain in Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), the Yufeng Monastery has experienced more than 400 years of history. What may amaze you most is the huge old camellia that planted in Ming Dynasty (1364-1644), 100 years earlier than the construction of the monastery. This camellia is praised as the King of the Camellia for the marvelous size of it.
From the beginning of the spring to the beginning of summer, the camellia will be fully blooming for 20 times without breaking off just like a peacock showing off her tail, and the amount of the flowers blooming at each time is more than 1000, therefore there are surprisingly 20,000 flowers blooming every year. This magic camellia is said to be improved through grafting, so the flowers blooming on this 2-meter-tall camellia are as large as a plate.
On the arrival of the spring, people will come all the way from near and far to have a close look at this huge camellia blooming under the reflecting of the gorgeous Yulong Mountain with the snow as the coat.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: Yulong Mt., Lijiang City
Transportation: Taxi from Lijiang will bring you here.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xue Shan )
With an average altitude of 4000, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (yu long xue shan) is the wonderful place with marvelous spectacles in the challenging environment. Ganhaizi is a piece of vast grassland in the east with beautiful sceneries that provides a good angle for people to enjoy the entire sight of the Jade Dragon Snow Mt. White River, originates from the Jade Dragon Snow Mt., is a crystal-like river flowing along the Mt.. Yunshanping, a virgin forest with abundant rare natural resources, is the holy land of the Naxi people. All of them make Jade Dragon Snow Mountain a good place for adventure, photography and expedition.
The mountains western flanks drop steeply to the Upper Yangtze River (Jinsha Jiang), helping to form magnificent, deep gorges, and the highest peak is Shanzidou. The summit, Shanzidou, is 5596 meters above sea level. Viewed from afar, the snow-capped range resembles a silver dragon with snow curling up its middle. Rich forest, herb and animal resources thrive on the mountain and a giant tram cart up here is one of the highest of its kind in China.
She is a botanist's paradise and a "kingdom of medicinal materials". Of the 13,000 kinds of plants in Yunnan, more than half of them can be found on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as well as 400 types of trees in 20 primeval forest communities. From April to June the azaleas turn the mountain into a riot of brilliant color. In autumn, blue rough gentian flowers cover her marshlands. She is decorated with blooming flowers 10 months of the year.
The mountain is also a sanctuary for animals, many of them rare animals that live at different temperature levels. She is home to 30 kinds of animals protected by the state, such as the wild ass, the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, the lesser panda, the forest musk deer, the clouded leopard, the blood pheasant, the silver pheasant, and the spotted, yellowish civet cat.
She has attracted the attention of many scholars and travelers. Early in 1837, the French writer Bacier introduced Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in his acclaimed book "Universe". And seven years ago the chairman of the international Mountainous Region led a team to the mountain for field work.
In Lijiang City, you can have a magnificent view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the main peak thrust into the clouds, the Old Man Peak standing out on the right and Black Snow Peak on its left.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 16:00
Ticket Price:
190 CNY
80 CNY for the kids below 1.1 m
Location: 15 km away from the Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 7 (15 CNY) and taxi (100 CNY) will bring you here.
Baisha Mural
The Baisha Mural is a group of murals scattered around Lijiang City, which took 300 years to complete, therefore it is a reflection of the true life in the late Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty. Having been undergone over 500 years of history, part of the Baisha mural group somewhat becomes indistinct, but a large part of which still can tell you about the culture of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
The mural group consists of more than 10 small groups, the amount of mural in all of which is up to 550. Those gorgeous murals with various styles, which are telling the stories of the religious belief and social life of the local, are a blooming intelligent show that you must visit.
Located in Baisha Township, 8km north of the seat of the Lijiang Naxi Nationality Autonomous County, the mural is a rich fusion that had resulted in a tremendously powerful art, heavy in spirit and awe-inspiring in its presentation of the mystical world. Dominated by black, silver, dark green, gold and red colors, the murals in the back hall, overlaid with centuries of brown soot, are bizarre, the scenes and figures, some still vivid in detail, are largely taken from Tibetan Buddhist iconography and include the wheel of life, judges of the underworld, the damned, titans and gods, Buddha and bodhisattvas. There are trigrams, lotus flowers and even Sanskrit inscriptions on the ceiling. The deliberate damage done to the paintings is apparent and terrible, but the loss of the irreplaceable wooden statuary that filled the temple, of which there is no trace, is even more tragic.
These mural paintings, with their fine and smooth lines, bright colors, vivid pattern and balanced and harmonious composition are a wonderful sight that is not only crucial to the history of Chinese painting, but also important to cultural heritage relics.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 17:00
Ticket Price: 40 CNY
Location: 12 km away from Lijiang city center
Transportation: Bus No. 6 from Lijiang will bring you here.
First Bend of the Yangtze
The Yangtze River Bend, as its name indicates, is the spot where the southwards running Yangtze River turns northeastward due to the block of the mountain, which, seen from a distance, looks like the letter V. Seeing the spectacular Yangtze River roaring down from the roof of the world and then making a sharp turn will be a wonderful experience.
From the sightseeing hill, in addition to the splendid view of the entire First Bend, you can have a good angle for the sunset. Under the shining of the sunset, the river shows off the most wonderful part by turning the green mountains around into shining golden mountains. In this paradise, flowers may fully bloom in spring and corps may grow into red and yellow in autumn, making a harmonious living environment on the bank of Yangtze River for the hospitable folks.
With the gradual deposit of fertile soil at this spot, a village slowly came into being, now called Shigu Town, meaning "stone drum" in Chinese. Since ancient times, this town has been important, linking Tibet with the outside world. Here Tibetan people bring their quality hide and herbal medicine to exchange with the local tea, salt, cloth and other necessities. If your tour schedule falls on the market day, you can join into the amazingly crowded and noisy town by yourself.
Opening Hours: the whole day
Ticket Price: free
Location: Naxi County, Lijiang
Transportation: Take the shuttle bus or the tour bus from the bus stations in Lijiang to the Shigu Town and then change the bus to here.
Baoshan Stone Village
Stone village is in fact an ancient village with about 100 families living on the peak of the mountain with a mushroom shape. This mysterious village, facing the Chin-sha River, is embraced by steeps in the other sides. Therefore, there are only the North and South Gates as the access to the village. While, inside the gorgeous village the wide natural rock roads will show you around the amazingly splendid but simple stone-made architectures.
About 100km north of Lijiang, Baoshan Stone Village (baoshan shicheng) is located on a Herculean rock in the Jinsha River Valley. Virtually everything in the village is made of stone: stone ovens, stone water vats, stone beds, stone chairs and so on. The village is surrounded by cliffs on four sides with the Jinsha River flowing below and a small path leading to the outside world, one meter wide, creeps along the edge of the village.
The marvelous terraced fields created on the rocks with the clear mountain spring flowing down are a magic place where various sceneries can be seen. On the arrival of the spring, the newly transplanted corps is adorably green, while when the autumn falls, you will lose yourself at the scene that the golden rice, wheat and corns waving with the breeze. In addition, the huge stone carvings on the steep cliffs, created by the ancestors of the Naxi people, are the most spectacular scene that makes the tourists astonished.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price: 20 CNY
Location: 100 km away from Lijiang City
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Lijiang will bring you here.
Guilin
Highlights
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Li River
Elephant Trunk Hill
Wave Subduing Hill
Reed Flute Cave
Seven Star Park
Yangshuo
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Li River
Elephant Trunk Hill
Wave Subduing Hill
Reed Flute Cave
Seven Star Park
Yangshuo
Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes City
Solitary Beauty Peak, also known as Purple Hill, is located in the Jingjiang Princes City with reputation of “Southern Heaven Pillar”. At the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak, there is a Longevity Palace first built in Tang Dynasty, while a Solitary Beauty Pavilion is standing at the top. You can have a bird’s view of beautiful Guilin when you climb up 396 stone steps to the top. Dushu Rock, Taiping Rock and Crescent-shape Pond are at the foot of Solitary Beauty Peak while many ancient inscriptions are on the eastern side of the peak, for example “East or west, Guilin scenery is the best”. Other famous attractions include Snow Cave and Zhongshan Monument.
Jingjiang Prices City, praised as a “city in a city”, was built in Ming Dynasty with a history of more than 630 years. During the 257 years from its completion to the collapse of Ming Dynasty, 14 seigniors had lived here. Jingjiang Princes City became the Examination Compound in the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 19.78 hectares, Jingjiang Princes City composes of Chengyun Gate, Chengyun Palace, Palace Harem and Imperial Garden with other 40 rooms, pavilions and chambers. Listed as “the key cultural relics of national level”, Jingjiang Princes City is an irreplaceable scenic spot in Guilin.
If you want to enjoy picturesque mountains and crystal clear waters, Solitary Beauty Peak, famous royal treasure hill is your best choice. If you want to read the history of Guilin, Jingjiang Princes City will meet your need.
Tips:
1. Opening Hours: 9:30am—5:30pm
2. How to Get Here: No.1, 10, 11, 14, 100 Buses.
Folded Brocade Hill
Folded Brocade Hill, with an elevation of 73m, locates to the northeast of Guilin, facing beautiful Li River. As a beautiful and well-known hill, Folded Brocade Hill consists of Mingyue Peak, Crane Peak, Siwang Hill and Yuyue Hill, covering an area of 2km². Many amazing attractions such as Folded Brocade Pavilion, Yuyue Pavilion, Wind Cave and Wangjiang Pavilion etc. are on the hill. Besides, inscriptions on precipices carved by celebrities of all the precious dynasties are the essence of all relics.
Folded Brocade Pavilion, with a height of 5m, length of 7.5m and width of 8.5m, is architecture with single story, 4 angles, flat rooftop, red pillars and green tiles. With Yuyue Hill to the east, Siwang Hill to the west and Bright Moon Peak to the north, Folded Brocade Pavilion is harmonious with the surroundings. Stone benches standing from east to west, the northern side is the best place to appreciate the fantastic “folded brocade” and is an ideal place for rest. To the west of the pavilion, an inscription by Yu Qing of Ming Dynasty is also worth of visiting.
Wangjiang Pavilion is halfway up the hill and built during the reign of Emperor Zhengde (1506-1521) of the Ming Dynasty. Rebuilt in the years of 1954 and 1990, Wangjiang Pavilion is a pavilion with ancient style, 6m in height and dihedral angles. On the wall, a cliff inscription was carved as “a place for seeking adventures”.
Sanya
Highlights
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Dadonghai Beach
Dadong Beach is one of the most popular resorts where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle. Along this crescent beach, you can enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing, which would be more pleasant in winter when the average temperature is 20℃.
Diving in the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters, riding the motorboat flying on the beautiful sea, doing the barbeque along the soft beach or choosing the colorful shells, or making the sandcastle could be the coziest fair in the life.
As one part of the natural picture of scenery of Sanya, Dadong Beach, the beach with the well-developed facilities and the longest history in Sanya, appeals to a growing number of tourists from home and abroad. May this mysteriously peaceful beach be the number of your expeditions?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Price: 25 CNY for entrance
Transportation:
Bus No. 2, 4 and 8 from railway station
Bus No. 15 from Yalong Bay
Bus Ticket Fare: 2 CNY
Taxi can bring you here from city center (Car Fare: 10 CNY)
End of the World
End of the World was once a remote place in the ancient time where has rare communication with the other places in traffic, trade or information. Thus, the ecological environment here is well preserved, which is the very reason why it is so attractive. In the ancient time, some celebrities loved to come here for the peace and purity. At present, modern people come here for the same reason.
The gracious place where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle, is the ideal place for the newly wedded couples or love-struck pairs for honeymoon or romantic tour. The annual International Wedding Festival organized by the local government is hold here. The other reason people love to come here for romance is the romantic story prevails over the whole China.
Long ago, two passionate lovers from rival Li clans have pledged their love for one another here, promising that they would be together wherever they traveled. Constantly pursued by troops from both clans, they were forced to leap from this spot into the sea. The Chinese believe that two of the huge rocks that stand facing one another represent the two lovers. Today, Chinese couples still invoke this tale in their declarations of love, promising that they too, would go to the 'end of the world' for one another.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Ticket Price:
65 CNY for entrance
Half fare for the students and soldiers
Location: 23 km away from the city center of Sanya,
Transportation: you can come here by bus (5 CNY) or by taxi (30 CNY).
Luhuitou Peninsula
The Luhuitou Peninsula in the southernmost of the Sayan City is hailed as the Lovers’ Mountain. The Luhuitou Park is built on this peninsula, where the tourists, most of whom are the couples in deep love with each other or the people who want to find the true love here, spend their romantic tour.
With a height of 275 meters, Luhuitou-mountain is the best angle for sunrise and sunset as well as the unique place for the entire sight of the beautiful Sayan city. Covering 880,000 m2, Luhuitou Park is full of distinctive landscapes, such as the white Tide Viewing Pavillion, the red Sea Viewing Tower, the green Lover’s Island and the 12-meter-tall Stone Sculpture of a Deer etc. Owing to the pleasant weather, flowers are blossoming and trees are green for the year round in the park. What’s more, the treasure fruit--Red Coconut is the god-given feast for us. Why not come here to look your romantic memory?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00--22:00
Ticket Price:
45 CNY for the adult
Half fare for the kids between 1.2-1.4 meter
Location: 3 km away far the city center of Sanya city
Transportation: Bus No. 3 and 22 will bring you here.
Nanshan Temple
Nanshan is one of the birthplaces of the Buddhism in China, where many significant Buddhists have been here and left behind many Buddhist Classics, such as the Mother Buddha and the Buddhist Jianzhen from China and the Japanese monk Konghai. Therefore, local people built up the Nanshan Temple, covering 4,000,000 m2, in memory of the Buddhists who made great contribution to the development of Chinese Buddhist.
Nanshan Temple is built in the southernmost of Sayan city, facing the vast sea and surrounded by the green hills, in which there is a set of 33 sculptures of Mother Buddha and a 108-meter-tall sculpture of Mother Buddha. The magnificent temple is a treasure mine that full of many Buddhist cultural classics. An increasing number of tourists come here to experience the Buddhist culture, to taste the real monks’ vegetarian food, to photograph the grand sights or to participate in the Shadow Boxing practice in the morning.
Nanshan Tourism Zone, a five-star scenic spot, is a combination of culture and nature, where you can experience not only the Buddhist culture, but also the picturesque landscapes in which you may relax entirely and you can return to the pure nature life. Mild sunshine, pure sea, soft beach, blossoming flowers and green woods are waiting for you.
Note:
1. It is impolite to take photo with the Buddha.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
4. Enter the temple at the left side of the door and exit at the right side.
5. The goods in the market is cheaper than that in the temple entrance.
6. Don’t get annoyed, when the monks don’t greet back to you, because they pay little attention to the daily greeting.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price:
150CNY for entrance
48 CNY for the vegetarian banquet
Half fare for the students, soldiers and people over 70
20 CNY for the Golden Sculpture of the Mother Buddha
Location: 40 km away from city center of Sanya
Transportation: Shuttle Bus (9 CNY), Tour Bus (5 CNY) and Taxi (50-100CNY) will bring you here.
Yalong Bay
With a beach of 8 km long, as long as 3 times as that of Hawaii, Yalong Bay, the best bay in the world, is an attractive coastal resort in the southernmost of China. In the past years, numerous tourists have come here for the picturesque natural landscapes and praised the Yalong Bay as the Oriental Hawaii.
Yalong Bay possesses a 66 sq. km beach with a capacity of 100,000 tourists and a shallow stretching out into the sea 60 m far. Can you image how cheerful and amazing it is when you ran on the soft sand, choose the colorful shells, or make the sandcastle in the beach surrounded by clear water and green trees? Can you image how pleasant it is when you enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing in the mild sunshine, blue sky, clear water and gentle breeze? Can you image how exciting it is when you ride a motorboat flying on the sea or dive into the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters playing with the fish?
Pleasant weather, fresh air, peaceful sea, comfortable beach, green coconut woods and marvelous underwater sceneries, which are at their best from August to December, can be one of the resorts on your expedition list.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 8:00
Ticket price:
54 CNY for Center Square and Butterfly Valley
Half fare for the students and the local residences
Free for the kids below 1.3 meter and the people over 70 years
Location: 25 kilometers (16 miles) away from city center of Sanya.
Transportation:
Bus No. 15 Ticket fare 2 CNY
Tour Bus Ticket fare 10 CNY
Western Island
West Islet, the second largest island in Hainan Province, together with the East Islet forms a marvelous sight-- two Hawksbills moving ahead in the bluish waves. West Islet is 8 sea miles away from Sanya city, therefore the ecology is well protected from the pollution, which provides a purely natural resort for people.
Around the islet, the water is clean, air is fresh, sands are soft, trees are green, corals are gorgeous and fish are numerous, which is a god-given scenic spot where people will lose themselves in the colorful eco-entertainments, such as fishing, diving, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing and boating in the banana boat. In addition, the natural bath beach and ideal place for barbeque and campfire party are in the number of the amazing entertainment places.
Speaking of the souvenirs, the shells products are wise choices. There is a gallery for the exhibition of the colorful shells with various and huge shapes, some of which are from overseas, some are local and the other are man-made. Go to West Islet for your expedition of the natural landscapes and natural entertainments.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 17:30
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for entrance
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter
70 CNY for the local people, students in Hainan, soldiers and journalists.
Note: All the entertainments require the ticket for the entrance and the boat.
Location: 8 sea miles away from the Sanya city
Transportation: Taxi (35 CNY) will bring you to the West Islet Quay, and boats will bring you into the West Islet.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Dadonghai Beach
Dadong Beach is one of the most popular resorts where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle. Along this crescent beach, you can enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing, which would be more pleasant in winter when the average temperature is 20℃.
Diving in the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters, riding the motorboat flying on the beautiful sea, doing the barbeque along the soft beach or choosing the colorful shells, or making the sandcastle could be the coziest fair in the life.
As one part of the natural picture of scenery of Sanya, Dadong Beach, the beach with the well-developed facilities and the longest history in Sanya, appeals to a growing number of tourists from home and abroad. May this mysteriously peaceful beach be the number of your expeditions?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Ticket Price: 25 CNY for entrance
Transportation:
Bus No. 2, 4 and 8 from railway station
Bus No. 15 from Yalong Bay
Bus Ticket Fare: 2 CNY
Taxi can bring you here from city center (Car Fare: 10 CNY)
End of the World
End of the World was once a remote place in the ancient time where has rare communication with the other places in traffic, trade or information. Thus, the ecological environment here is well preserved, which is the very reason why it is so attractive. In the ancient time, some celebrities loved to come here for the peace and purity. At present, modern people come here for the same reason.
The gracious place where sands are soft, sunshine is mild, water is clear, trees are green, sky is blue and breeze is gentle, is the ideal place for the newly wedded couples or love-struck pairs for honeymoon or romantic tour. The annual International Wedding Festival organized by the local government is hold here. The other reason people love to come here for romance is the romantic story prevails over the whole China.
Long ago, two passionate lovers from rival Li clans have pledged their love for one another here, promising that they would be together wherever they traveled. Constantly pursued by troops from both clans, they were forced to leap from this spot into the sea. The Chinese believe that two of the huge rocks that stand facing one another represent the two lovers. Today, Chinese couples still invoke this tale in their declarations of love, promising that they too, would go to the 'end of the world' for one another.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Ticket Price:
65 CNY for entrance
Half fare for the students and soldiers
Location: 23 km away from the city center of Sanya,
Transportation: you can come here by bus (5 CNY) or by taxi (30 CNY).
Luhuitou Peninsula
The Luhuitou Peninsula in the southernmost of the Sayan City is hailed as the Lovers’ Mountain. The Luhuitou Park is built on this peninsula, where the tourists, most of whom are the couples in deep love with each other or the people who want to find the true love here, spend their romantic tour.
With a height of 275 meters, Luhuitou-mountain is the best angle for sunrise and sunset as well as the unique place for the entire sight of the beautiful Sayan city. Covering 880,000 m2, Luhuitou Park is full of distinctive landscapes, such as the white Tide Viewing Pavillion, the red Sea Viewing Tower, the green Lover’s Island and the 12-meter-tall Stone Sculpture of a Deer etc. Owing to the pleasant weather, flowers are blossoming and trees are green for the year round in the park. What’s more, the treasure fruit--Red Coconut is the god-given feast for us. Why not come here to look your romantic memory?
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:00--22:00
Ticket Price:
45 CNY for the adult
Half fare for the kids between 1.2-1.4 meter
Location: 3 km away far the city center of Sanya city
Transportation: Bus No. 3 and 22 will bring you here.
Nanshan Temple
Nanshan is one of the birthplaces of the Buddhism in China, where many significant Buddhists have been here and left behind many Buddhist Classics, such as the Mother Buddha and the Buddhist Jianzhen from China and the Japanese monk Konghai. Therefore, local people built up the Nanshan Temple, covering 4,000,000 m2, in memory of the Buddhists who made great contribution to the development of Chinese Buddhist.
Nanshan Temple is built in the southernmost of Sayan city, facing the vast sea and surrounded by the green hills, in which there is a set of 33 sculptures of Mother Buddha and a 108-meter-tall sculpture of Mother Buddha. The magnificent temple is a treasure mine that full of many Buddhist cultural classics. An increasing number of tourists come here to experience the Buddhist culture, to taste the real monks’ vegetarian food, to photograph the grand sights or to participate in the Shadow Boxing practice in the morning.
Nanshan Tourism Zone, a five-star scenic spot, is a combination of culture and nature, where you can experience not only the Buddhist culture, but also the picturesque landscapes in which you may relax entirely and you can return to the pure nature life. Mild sunshine, pure sea, soft beach, blossoming flowers and green woods are waiting for you.
Note:
1. It is impolite to take photo with the Buddha.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
4. Enter the temple at the left side of the door and exit at the right side.
5. The goods in the market is cheaper than that in the temple entrance.
6. Don’t get annoyed, when the monks don’t greet back to you, because they pay little attention to the daily greeting.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 18:00
Ticket Price:
150CNY for entrance
48 CNY for the vegetarian banquet
Half fare for the students, soldiers and people over 70
20 CNY for the Golden Sculpture of the Mother Buddha
Location: 40 km away from city center of Sanya
Transportation: Shuttle Bus (9 CNY), Tour Bus (5 CNY) and Taxi (50-100CNY) will bring you here.
Yalong Bay
With a beach of 8 km long, as long as 3 times as that of Hawaii, Yalong Bay, the best bay in the world, is an attractive coastal resort in the southernmost of China. In the past years, numerous tourists have come here for the picturesque natural landscapes and praised the Yalong Bay as the Oriental Hawaii.
Yalong Bay possesses a 66 sq. km beach with a capacity of 100,000 tourists and a shallow stretching out into the sea 60 m far. Can you image how cheerful and amazing it is when you ran on the soft sand, choose the colorful shells, or make the sandcastle in the beach surrounded by clear water and green trees? Can you image how pleasant it is when you enjoy the sunbath and sea bathing in the mild sunshine, blue sky, clear water and gentle breeze? Can you image how exciting it is when you ride a motorboat flying on the sea or dive into the deep sea with a visibility of 10 meters playing with the fish?
Pleasant weather, fresh air, peaceful sea, comfortable beach, green coconut woods and marvelous underwater sceneries, which are at their best from August to December, can be one of the resorts on your expedition list.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 8:00
Ticket price:
54 CNY for Center Square and Butterfly Valley
Half fare for the students and the local residences
Free for the kids below 1.3 meter and the people over 70 years
Location: 25 kilometers (16 miles) away from city center of Sanya.
Transportation:
Bus No. 15 Ticket fare 2 CNY
Tour Bus Ticket fare 10 CNY
Western Island
West Islet, the second largest island in Hainan Province, together with the East Islet forms a marvelous sight-- two Hawksbills moving ahead in the bluish waves. West Islet is 8 sea miles away from Sanya city, therefore the ecology is well protected from the pollution, which provides a purely natural resort for people.
Around the islet, the water is clean, air is fresh, sands are soft, trees are green, corals are gorgeous and fish are numerous, which is a god-given scenic spot where people will lose themselves in the colorful eco-entertainments, such as fishing, diving, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing and boating in the banana boat. In addition, the natural bath beach and ideal place for barbeque and campfire party are in the number of the amazing entertainment places.
Speaking of the souvenirs, the shells products are wise choices. There is a gallery for the exhibition of the colorful shells with various and huge shapes, some of which are from overseas, some are local and the other are man-made. Go to West Islet for your expedition of the natural landscapes and natural entertainments.
Note:
1. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
2. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
3. Going to diving or sea walking requires following the instruction of the guide.
Opening Hours: 9:00 -- 17:30
Ticket Price:
90 CNY for entrance
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter
70 CNY for the local people, students in Hainan, soldiers and journalists.
Note: All the entertainments require the ticket for the entrance and the boat.
Location: 8 sea miles away from the Sanya city
Transportation: Taxi (35 CNY) will bring you to the West Islet Quay, and boats will bring you into the West Islet.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, covering 10 sq. km and 12 hills, is the only one protection zone of the macaque island in the world. Thanks to the pleasant climate and the flourishing tropical forests, 2500 monkeys have been living a harmonious and happy life with the local people.
In the tropical forests, green trees, blossoming flowers, colorful fruits, bizarre stones and active animals form a harmoniously picturesque scenic sight, which will make you reluctant to leave. The trained monkeys, with whom you can take photos, will entertain you by performing the amusing acts, while the delicious tropical fruits will raise your appetite and the local customs will amaze you.
In this paradise of monkey, there are also many places for human, such as the longest transoceanic ropeway in China, the natural bathing beach, the multicolored coral reefs, and the unique fishing rafts. Put the monkey island on your itinerary, and you will be rewarded with a lot of fun and pleasure. More than 2000 monkeys are waiting in queue to welcome you any time.
Note:
1. Follow the instruction of the guide.
2. Take the sunglass, sun hat and sun cream with you
3. Leave behind nothing except your footprints to keep it clean.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -- 16:30
Ticket Price:
123 CNY for the entrance
Half fare for the people between 60 – 69, students and teachers.
Free for the kids below 1.1 meter, the disabled, retire, people over 70
Location: Nanwan Peninsula, Lingshui County, Hainan province
Transportation: Taix (CNY 150) and shuttle bus (50 CNY) will bring you here.
Wuzhizhou Coral Island
Wuzhizhou Island covers only 1.5 sq. km--like a butterfly flying over the sea. Small as it is, it possesses a lot of rare species of plant, over 2700, and many enchanting landscapes. As the data show, Wuzhizhou Island is in the number of the islands that has fresh water and flourishing forests.
As the West Islet, Wuzhizhou Island is well protected from the pollution, therefore the water here is clean, the air is fresh, the beach is clean and the trees are green. Under the water with the visibility of 20 meters, you can varicolored tropical fishes, green snails and groups of well-reserved coral reef. In the island, there is no rock or pebble, which is a best place for diving.
Along the soft beach, on the vast sea or under the clean water, colorful eco-entertainments are waiting for your try, such as playing beach volleyball and soccer, fishing, skiing on the sea, sea walking, sailing, boating in the banana boat, diving, barbeque and campfire party. Don’t be hesitate to experience the exciting, romantic and amazing tour here.
Opening Hours: 8:00 -- 16:00
Ticket Price: (including entrance ticket and the boat fare)
168 CNY for adults
Free for the kids under 1.2 meter
140 CNY for the kids between 1.2 and 1.5 meter, the people over 70 and the soldiers
Location: 2.7 sea miles away from the Linwang County, Sanya
Transportation: Taxi from city center of Sanya will bring you to the Wuzhizhou Quay. (50 CNY)
Welcome to join this romantic and unforgettable bridal art tour with us! During the tour, a professional bridal art photographer will be with you to record down your most romantic moments. Besides, amazing China's sceneries will make your tour memorable. At the end of the tour, a delicately made album of your romance during your journey will be given to you.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Shanghai airport, our representative will wait for you at there and then transfer you to hotel. The rest of the day will be free on your own.
Stay overnight in Shanghai
Meals included:
After enjoy a leisurely breakfast, we drive to [Yuyuan Garden], where you find more delicate handicrafts and tasty Chinese snacks. What follows is the visit to [Jade Buddha Temple], an elegant structure famous for its Buddha statue which is made from solid white jade and decorated by jewels. We arrange your lunch at a romantic Shanghai restaurant. After lunch we will go to the [Outer Bund], for a grand view of Shanghai and you may marvel at how modern this metropolis is while still containing its old traditions. Enjoy a walk on the [Nanjing Road], the most prosperous commercial street. You can find that this street is lined with lots of world famous brands and meanwhile, you can enjoy a good time in shopping. Then take a pm flight to Chengdu.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Drive to Leshan after breakfast. [Take the ferry to view the Giant Buddha Statue]. The Buddha statue is 71-meter-tall, which is situated at the confluence of the Min and Dadu River and was originally built to protect and watch over passing ships in the night. The Chinese have a saying that is "the mountain is a Buddha and the Buddha is a mountain". This great sculpture is certainly the biggest of its kind in the world. Then Drive back to Chengdu.
Stay overnight in Chengdu.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
In the morning we fly to the Fairyland-Jiuzhaigou Valley, which is famous for its natural wonders in terms of colorful waters. And then drive to the hotel.
Stay overnight in Jiuzhaigou.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
A tour to the [Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area], we visit the [Shuzheng Valley], [Rize Valley] and [Zechawa Valley]. Shuzheng Valley, considered as the epitome of Jiuzhaigou, covers 40 various lakes. Shuzheng Lakes locates at the entrance place. So you’ll appreciate these dream-like views first. Then, the Rize Valley is the most attractive part of Jiuzhaigou. 18 separated amazing lakes and the Nuorilang Waterfall are in this valley. Zechawa Valley has both seasonal lakes and snow-capped peaks because it enjoys the highest altitude during your Jiuzhaigou tour. Natural beauties are best demonstrated in its lakes, waterfalls, beaches, water currents, snow peaks, and virgin forests and you can spend time to take photos.
Stay overnight in Jiuzhaigou.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
This morning, we will visit the [Huanglong Scenic Area]. It is famous for its magic landscape of limestone formations, made up of 3,400 multi-colored, different sized ponds. The site includes caves paved with golden line deposits, five waterfalls, four stalactite caves and three ancient temples, all gathered in the same place. It is said that look like a dragon surging down from the snow-capped peaks of Mountain Min. Fly back to Chengdu in the afternoon. Enjoy a dinner of local cuisine in the evening by yourselves.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Visit the [Giant Panda Researching and Breeding Base] in the morning. Here is the best place to see Chengdu's most famous residents. The Museum here gathers information on panda reproductive problems and there is also a large breeding ground at the site. Then take the flight flying to Lijiang.
Stay overnight in Lijiang.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Have a guided tour to visit the [Baisha village] where we meet Naxi people, see the exquisite murals, and experience their traditions and culture. Later, let's visit the [Black Dragon Pool Park] to appreciate some stunning architectures and the naturally beautiful surroundings of this small highland city. And finally, wandering around in the [Lijiang Old Town] following your guide is our recommended.
Stay overnight in Lijiang.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
You will have a totally free day to relax or explore this fascinating town yourself.
Stay overnight in Lijiang.
Meals included: Breakfast
Drive to airport to take a flight from Lijiang to Guilin via Kunming.
Stay overnight in Guilin.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
[Li River cruise] which will present you the famed Li River landscape all the way to Yangshuo. In Yangshuo you will enjoy a minority nationality song and dance show called [Impression—Sanjie Liu] in the evening.
Stay overnight in Yangshuo.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
You will have a totally free day to enjoy the romance, charm, tranquility and the relaxing atmosphere of this small town.
Stay overnight in Yangshuo.
Meals included: Breakfast
You still have a free morning before going to the airport for your flight to Sanya. It is China's most southern city on Hainan, a beautiful tropical island that boasts the oriental Hawaii. Upon arrival, you are transferred to the magnificent Banyan Tree Resort, located in Sanya's Luhuitou Peninsula. You are arranged to the luxurious Pool Villa. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Stay overnight in Sanya.
(Sometimes you need to fly to Guangzhou/Shenzhen in the morning and wait for the connecting flight.
Meals included: Breakfast , Lunch
Choose from our variety of optional day tours available or spend some time for relaxing in the beach. For dinner, transfer to a Dadonghai restaurant and later, see Hainan Island's history come to life in a spectacular [evening show] at the Miss World performance theatre along with dances, music and acrobats.
Stay overnight in Sanya.
Meals included: Breakfast
Time at leisure or choose from optional tours. Enjoy a superb dinner in the hotel restaurant. To end the day, enjoy a massage in a renowned local center.
Stay overnight in Sanya.
Meals included: Breakfast
Spend the morning at leisure (optional tours are also available). Visit the spectacular and romantic [Luhuitou Park] with its superb views of the area and rich local folklore. For dinner, you are transferred to the Hong Sha Floating fish restaurant and feast on a great dinner in this unique setting. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure (or optional tours).
Stay overnight in Sanya.
Meals included: Breakfast , Dinner
Eat breakfast in the hotel restaurant. Spend some time at leisure before you are transferred to the airport for your departure flight leaving for Shanghai.
Stay overnight in Shanghai.
Meals included: Breakfast
Be free at leisure on your own until being transferred to airport for you homeward flight. The tour ends at the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast
Pricing & Accommodation
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US Dollar -
Euro -
GB Pound -
CA Dollar -
AU Dollar -
HK Dollars -
Renminbi
| 1 person | 2-5 persons | 6-9 persons | ≥10 persons | Single Room Supplement | |
| First Class Tour | / | $3615 | $3077 | $2445 | $1270 |
| Comfortable Tour | / | $2899 | $2356 | $1903 | $720 |
| Standard Tour | / | $2443 | $2000 | $1454 | $470 |
* Price in every box above is for each person.
* The default currency is in US dollar. Please use the Currency Converter to see the equivalent quote in your currency. Price is for references only, it may vary according to your actual travel itinerary, travel time, hotel price rise or fall, US dollar exchange rate fluctuation, car fuel price change and government tax adjustment, etc..
* The price is only for your reference and it is subject to seasons, high or low.Please send us your inquiry if you are interested.
* The differences between First Class Tour, Comfortable Tour and Standard Tour are mainly reflected in the hotels we use. For First Class Tour, we use mostly 5 star hotels (or hotels corresponded to 5 star ones), 4 star hotels for Comfortable Tour and 3 star hotels for Standard Tour. But there’re exceptions when there come home stay experience, remote destinations and other specified circumstances in the itinerary.
| First Class Tour | Comfortable Tour | Standard Tour | |
| Shanghai | Hilton Shanghai Hotel | New Century Hotel Shanghai | Swan Hotel Shanghai |
| Sheraton Shanghai Hongkou Hotel | Ocean Hotel Shanghai | Anting Villa Hotel Shanghai | |
| Chengdu | Chengdu Sheraton Hotel | Yinhe Dynasty Hotel | Furong Hotel |
| Tibet Hotel Chengdu | Water Hotel | Chengdu Civil Aviation Hotel | |
| Jiuzhaigou | Sheraton Jiuzhaigou Resort | New Jiuzhai Hotel | Qianhe International Hotel |
| Intercontinental Resort Jiuzhai Paradise | Gesang Hote | ||
| Lijing | Guanfang Hotel Lijiang | Wangfu Hotel | Grand Lijiang Hotel |
| Zen Garden Hotel | Sightseeing Hotel Lijiang | Sanhe Hotel | |
| Guilin | Sheraton Guilin | Bravo Hotel Guilin | Osmanthus Hotel Guilin |
| Shangri-la Hotel Guilin | Park Hotel Guilin | Hotel Universal Guilin | |
| Yangshuo | Green Lotus Hotel Yangshuo | Yangshuo New Century Hotel | Yangshuo Aiyuan Hotel |
| Yangshuo Resort | Yangshuo Tangrenjie Hotel | Yangshuo Regency Holiday Hotel | |
| Sanya | Ritz Carlton Sanya | Intime Resor | Tianfuyuan Resort |
| Marriott Resort & Spa | South China Hotel | Yinyun Holiday Resort |
Inclusions / Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Attraction Entrance Fees
- Centrally Located Hotels
- Authentic Chinese Food
- Private Experienced Guides
- Private Cars/Van with Drivers
- Internal Flights/Train(s) in China
- Luggage Transfers
- Airport Taxes and Fuel Fees
- Service Charge & Government Taxes
- Travel Insurance
Exclusions:
- International Airfare to Enter/Leave China
- China Entry Visa Fees
- Excess Baggage Charges
- Personal Expenses
- Single Room Supplement
- Tips or Gifts to Guides/Drivers/Bellmen
Important Information
How to Pack up
We suggest that each person packs up one rollable suitcase with the weight under 20 kg/44lb. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like iPods and mobile phones.
Checklist
It's only for reference, you may not need all of them. Choose from below according to the tour you pick up:
Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
USD cash and travelers checks
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
CET vouchers and trip dossier
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Day pack for daily personal items
Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
Alarm clock
Flashlight
Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
Small towel and swim wear
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
Money belt
Shorts for summer months (June – September)
Long pants
Shirts/T-shirts
Warm clothes for Nov-April. Fleece, Jacket, hat and gloves
Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
Camera, film and memory chip
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Pocketknife
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Local Dress
Generally speaking, the dress standard is more conservative in China than it is in western countries. Things also changes quickly, nowadays the young Chinese share the same hobbies with their western counterparts. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of summers. In predominately Buddhist and Muslim regions we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask that you refer to internet for the recent exchange rates. There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard and other credit cards in most Chinese cities. We also recommend the use of cash and travelers checks in USD currency. Major credit cards are accepted in big shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee. For the small shops and the street venders, they take cash (either Chinese Yuan or US dollar) only.
Meals
Eating is a big part of your traveling in China. Travelling with CET you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally breakfasts and lunches are included except dinners to give you the flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. Your group leader or local guide will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an "emergency" fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control, necessitate a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Tipping
It is customary to tip service providers in travel industry in Asia, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from $6-$10 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service, for driver, it could be half. If necessary, ask your tour leader or call your CET tour advisor for specific recommendations based on the circumstances. If you have a tour leader for the whole tour, at the end of the trip if you felt he/she did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $6-10 USD per person, per day can be used.
Local Flights
All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are all e-tickets. They are issued locally and you will be given the information of them prior to the flight departure.
Laundry
Generally laundry facilities are offered by our hotels for a charge. You also can go to a laundry service center near your hotel to have your clothing washed at a lower cost. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Safety and Security
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travelers' checks, cash and other valuable items. Many of the hotels we cooperate with have safety deposit boxes which are the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. When travelling on a trip, please note that your group leader or local guides has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader or local guides will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader or local guides will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of China but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable for CET travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. Use of illegal drugs is completely contrary to this philosophy and local law. Our group leader or local guides has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or used.
Health
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders or local guides are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In China pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting a tour please carefully read the itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings in this dossier for trip specific information. For travelers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. CET reserves the right to exclude any traveler from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader or local guides they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Medical Form
It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an "average level of fitness and mobility" is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travelers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own bags at a minimum. Travelers over the age of 70, or travelers with a pre-existing medical condition, are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that senior travelers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders or local guides work hard to ensure that all our travelers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. You must have comprehensive travel insurance that covers you for medical costs associated with hospitalization, emergency travel and repatriation back to your home country. Please take your insurance policy with you when you travel. You may take other cover, of course, but we require you to be adequately insured before we can allow you to participate in our programs. Your CET leader or local guides will need to see and record your policy details at the pre-tour briefing at the starting city, so please bring a copy along to the meeting. If you arrive without travel insurance your tour leader or local guide will require you to purchase a policy before you continue your journey with us.
If you are covered by a policy arranged through your credit card company you will be asked to provide evidence of this cover, as well as a 24-hour emergency contact number. Many credit card companies do not provide an insurance policy number. In this instance, the tour leader or local guides will need to record your credit card number, as this is required to activate any request for emergency assistance. You should also bring along the travel insurance information booklet provided by your credit card company. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet the requirements set out by your credit card company in order to be effectively covered and that the cover offered is of a suitable standard.
Passport & Visas
Well before travelling, please ensure that you have a current passport, with an accurate photo, that is valid for at least six months after your scheduled return home. Also check that your airline tickets are in exactly the same name as your passport.
Please note that visas for China and Hong Kong are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. Americans, British, Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders do currently require a visa for China. For all other nationalities please reconfirm your visa requirements with your government. For the most up to date information please check your governments' foreign ministry website. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travelers there will probably have an embassy and consulate in the country that you live in. Please note if you are travelling from China, into Hong Kong then back into China, you will need a double entry Chinese visa. Note that on some occasions people transiting through China on way to Hong Kong have been made to go through immigration and had their single entry visa stamped making this invalid. Do not allow your visa to be stamped if you are only going through transit.
Keeping in Touch
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend that you set up an email address that can be accessed on the road, rather than relying on postal mail. Email cafes are becoming increasingly commonplace and cheap throughout the country, and have quickly become the preferred way for our leaders and travelers to stay in touch. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact us so we can get into touch with your tour leader or local guide quickly by their cell phone and they can pass their cell phone to you! We recommend that family and friends don't try to contact you through phoning hotels en route, as our hotels are subject to change.
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us and we'll record you and give you CET travel points so you can use the points to get discount for your next CET trip or your friends' CET tours.
Per Person
