8 Areas of Natural Beauty to Visit in China 🌿
So, you’ve ticked off China’s big cities — Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Hong Kong ✅. Now it’s time to slow down, get out of the skyscrapers, and dive into China’s breathtaking natural beauty. From misty mountains to turquoise lakes, this country is full of jaw-dropping landscapes waiting to be explored.
Here are the Top 8 Areas of Natural Beauty to Visit in China:
1. Yangshuo – Karst Mountains and River Magic 🌄
Where: Guangxi Province, Southern China
Yangshuo is famous for its dramatic karst limestone peaks and winding rivers. The views here are straight out of a painting. You can take a bamboo raft along the Li River, cycle through rice paddies, or hike to Moon Hill for panoramic scenery. At night, the “Impression Liu Sanjie” light show on the river is unforgettable.
2. Zhangjiajie – Avatar Mountains 🏞️
Where: Hunan Province, Central China
Ever seen the movie Avatar? The floating Hallelujah Mountains were inspired by Zhangjiajie’s surreal sandstone pillars. Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park to walk across the Glass Skywalk, ride the Bailong Elevator, or take a cable car to Tianmen Mountain. It’s one of the most unique landscapes in the world.
3. Tibet – Roof of the World 🏔️
Where: Southwest China
Tibet is full of awe-inspiring scenery and deep spirituality. Imagine turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and ancient monasteries. Don’t miss Lhasa’s Potala Palace, the sacred Yamdrok Lake, and if you’re adventurous, head to the Mount Everest Base Camp on the Tibetan side. Tibet offers both natural wonder and cultural depth.
4. Xinjiang – Deserts and Mountains 🌵⛰️
Where: Far Northwest China
Xinjiang is huge, wild, and diverse. You’ll find endless deserts, glittering lakes, and the Tianshan Mountains. Visit Kashgar’s Old Town for Silk Road history, explore the red-rock canyons of Turpan, or relax by Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) near Urumqi. Xinjiang is one of the most varied landscapes in all of China.
5. Tiger Leaping Gorge – Adventure in Yunnan 🥾
Where: Yunnan Province, Southwest China
One of the world’s deepest gorges, Tiger Leaping Gorge offers thrilling hikes along dramatic cliffs above the roaring Jinsha River (a tributary of the Yangtze). Trekkers can spend two to three days exploring, staying in rustic guesthouses along the way. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
6. Jiuzhaigou Valley – Fairyland of Lakes and Waterfalls 💧🍂
Where: Sichuan Province, Southwest China
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jiuzhaigou is known for its turquoise lakes, multi-layered waterfalls, and snow-topped peaks. In autumn, the colourful forests reflect perfectly in crystal-clear waters. It’s like stepping into a postcard. Don’t miss Five Flower Lake and Pearl Shoal Waterfall.
7. Huangshan – The Yellow Mountains 🌲☁️
Where: Anhui Province, Eastern China
Huangshan has inspired Chinese painters and poets for centuries. Its “sea of clouds,” twisted pine trees, and jagged granite peaks are iconic. Hike up or take a cable car, then stay overnight on the mountain to catch a legendary sunrise above the clouds.
8. Guilin & Longji Rice Terraces – Nature Meets Culture 🌾
Where: Guangxi Province, near Yangshuo
While Yangshuo has the river scenery, nearby Guilin and the Longji Rice Terraces add another layer of beauty. The rice terraces stretch like green steps carved into the mountains. Visit in spring for shimmering water-filled terraces, or in autumn when they turn golden. Meet local Zhuang and Yao villagers for a cultural experience too.
Final Thoughts ✨
China is so much more than its big cities. From the karst peaks of Yangshuo to the Tibetan Plateau, and from the Avatar mountains of Zhangjiajie to the glittering lakes of Jiuzhaigou, there’s a natural wonder to suit every kind of traveller.
If you’re looking for unforgettable landscapes, these Top 8 Areas of Natural Beauty in China should be at the top of your travel list!
Contact Eventurus to help find you the perfect tour or create your own personalised itinerary!
