Introduction
China is a vast and diverse country with something to offer every traveler. But if you’re looking for the best places to visit in China in December, here are five destinations that should be at the top of your list.
From the snow-capped mountains of Tibet to the vibrant streets of Shanghai, China has something to offer every traveler. But if you’re looking for the best places to visit in China in December, here are five destinations that should be at the top of your list.
1. Beijing
Beijing is the capital of China and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. In December, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered streets and festive decorations. There are plenty of things to see and do in Beijing, including visiting the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall of China.
Beijing highlights:
- The Forbidden City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in China. It was the imperial palace of the Chinese emperors for over 500 years.
- The Temple of Heaven is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. It was built in the 15th century and was used by the emperors to worship heaven.
- The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It was built over 2,000 years ago and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China.
How to stand out:
- Visit Beijing during the Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year is the most important holiday in China and it’s a great time to experience the city’s culture and traditions.
- Take a day trip to the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall of China is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China and it’s a must-see for any visitor to Beijing.
2. Shanghai
Shanghai is the largest city in China and one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in the world. In December, the city is decorated for the holidays and there are plenty of things to see and do, including visiting the Bund, the Shanghai Museum, and the Oriental Pearl Tower.
Shanghai highlights:
- The Bund is a waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Huangpu River. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- The Shanghai Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in China. It has a collection of over 1 million artifacts, including many rare and valuable pieces.
- The Oriental Pearl Tower is a 468-meter-tall tower that offers stunning views of Shanghai. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
How to stand out:
- Visit Shanghai during the Shanghai International Film Festival. The Shanghai International Film Festival is one of the most important film festivals in Asia. It’s a great opportunity to see some of the latest films from China and around the world.
- Take a day trip to Hangzhou. Hangzhou is a beautiful city that’s located just a short train ride from Shanghai. It’s home to the West Lake, which is one of the most famous scenic spots in China.
3. Xian
Xian is the capital of Shaanxi province and one of the most historic cities in China. In December, the city is decorated for the holidays and there are plenty of things to see and do, including visiting the Terracotta Army, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Muslim Quarter.
Xian highlights:
- The Terracotta Army is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in China. It was discovered in 1974 and consists of over 8,000 terracotta warriors and horses.
- The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a Buddhist pagoda that was built in the 7th century. It’s one of the most famous landmarks in Xian.
- The Muslim Quarter is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood that’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and mosques.
How to stand out:
- Visit Xian during the Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year is the most important holiday in China and it’s a great time to experience the city’s culture and traditions.
- Take a day trip to Mount Hua. Mount Hua is one of the Five Great Mountains of China and it’s a popular destination for hikers and climbers.
4. Chengdu
Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan province and one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. In December, the city is decorated for the holidays and there are plenty of things to see and do, including visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the Jinsha Site Museum, and the Kuanzhai Alley.
Chengdu highlights:
- The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is home to over 100 giant pandas. It’s a great place to learn more about these amazing animals and see them up close.
- The Jinsha Site Museum is home to a collection of over 10,000 artifacts that were discovered at the Jinsha Site. The site is believed to be the remains of an ancient city that was destroyed by an earthquake over 3,000 years ago.
- Kuanzhai Alley is a vibrant and colorful pedestrian street that’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
How to stand out:
- Visit Chengdu during the Chengdu International Food Festival. The Chengdu International Food Festival is one of the largest food festivals in Asia. It’s a great opportunity to try some of the delicious food that Chengdu is famous for.
- Take a day trip to Leshan. Leshan is home to the Leshan Giant Buddha, which is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.
5. Lhasa
Lhasa is the capital of Tibet and one of the most unique and fascinating cities in China. In December, the city is decorated for the holidays and there are plenty of things to see and do, including visiting the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, and the Barkhor Street.
Lhasa highlights:
- The Potala Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Tibet. It was the winter palace of the Dalai Lamas for over 300 years.
- The Jokhang Temple is a Buddhist temple that was built in the 7th century. It’s one of the most sacred temples in Tibet and it’s a popular destination for pilgrims.
- Barkhor Street is a vibrant and colorful street that’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and monasteries.
How to stand out:
- Visit Lhasa during the Tibetan New Year. Tibetan New Year is the most important holiday in Tibet and it’s a great time to experience the city’s culture and traditions.
- Take a day trip to the Namtso Lake. Namtso Lake is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in Tibet. It’s a popular destination for hikers and campers.
Conclusion
China is a vast and diverse country with something to offer every traveler. But if you’re looking for the best places to visit in China in December, here are five destinations that should be at the top of your list. From the snow-capped mountains of Tibet to the vibrant streets of Shanghai, China has something to offer every traveler. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Additional Tips for Visiting China in December
Here are a few additional tips for visiting China in December:
- The weather in China can be cold in December, so be sure to pack warm clothing.
- It’s important to be respectful of Chinese culture and customs.
- Be sure to learn a few basic Chinese phrases.
- China is a large country, so it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance.
- Be sure to get a visa before you travel to China.
- China is a safe country to travel in, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings.
