Top 20 Attractions That You Can Visit On China Overland Tours

Going on overload China adventure is like stepping into a world full of stories, nature wonders, tradition, ancient history, and modern busy life. China is huge and has lots of different places to see, from super-tall buildings with bright lights in big cities like Shanghai to quiet and beautiful fields in the countryside. China has a long history, cool buildings, and nature spots that look from another world.

Some of the top attractions that you can visit during China overland tours are the Great Wall and the quiet statues of the Terracotta Army. But there's more to it than just these famous spots. You'll also get to walk around busy markets, try out tea the way it's been made for centuries, and see places in the countryside that are so beautiful, that they hardly seem real. You‘ll need to choose the right tour for you, and then you enjoy it. If you can’t decide which part of China you want to go to, please consider some of these China overland tours and maybe they will help you to choose more easily. 

Going on a road trip in China it’s like going on an adventure through time and seeing some of the most beautiful places on Earth all in one trip!

Here are the Top attractions that you can visit during the China overland tour.

The Beijing city tour is a must on your adventure in China, there are some popular attractions that you need to visit. Here are some of them:

The Forbidden City (The Palace Museum) 紫禁城

The world's largest imperial palace complex, with over 500 years of history. It is home to thousands of historic artifacts and the living quarters of emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Traveler tips for The Forbidden City:

• You should go early, because of the crowd, especially in summer
• Always bring the passport with you, you will need to show it at the entrance (for almost every tourist attraction in Beijing)
• There is no shade in the courtyard of the Forbidden City, so bring an umbrella or cap with you, and sunscreen, it’s incredibly hot and sunny
•  in summer in Beijing 
• You can get an audio guide for $5, if you decide to go on your own, without a guide
• Go on the side paths to make your way from the main courtyard, there is a long line of people shuffling down the main center line

Temple of Heaven 天坛

This a stunning example of Ming Dynasty architecture where emperors would pray for good harvests.

In 1998, the Temple of Heaven was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, being recognized as "a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design which simply and graphically illustrates a cosmogony of great importance for the evolution of one of the world’s great civilizations."

Beyond its religious and historical significance, the Temple of Heaven has become a symbol of Beijing and a popular park where local residents engage in traditional activities such as tai chi, dancing, and kite flying.

Summer Palace 颐和园

The Summer Palace offers a blend of natural beauty, historical architecture, and a deep insight into the imperial lifestyles of China's past emperors. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of China.

Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Kunming Lake, which covers much of the park. The views of the surrounding hills and palaces from the lake are particularly stunning.

The Long Corridor is a covered walkway famous for its extensive length and richly painted decorations, featuring over 14,000 paintings on its beams and crossbeams, depicting scenes from Chinese literature, history, and folk tales.

The Garden of Virtue and Harmony was the entertainment venue for the Empress Dowager Cixi and features beautiful buildings, including a grand theatre where traditional Chinese performances were held.

The Great Wall of China 万里长城

If you start your China overland tour from Beijing, then you must go to at least one section of The Great Wall of China, among the other popular attractions.

Every tour includes visiting Beijing and not visiting The Great Wall, and there is a reason for that. 

The Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles (21,196 kilometers) from east to west of China. The construction started in the 7th century BC, with various dynasties adding to it until the 17th century. 

Here’s a snapshot of essential facts about the Great Wall, focusing particularly on the Badaling and Mutianyu sections, to help enrich your journey:

Badaling Section

Location: Approximately 43 miles (70 kilometers) northwest of Beijing, it’s the most visited section due to its accessibility.

Features:

• Fully restored, offering a somewhat authentic look with easier walking paths.
• Features a Great Wall Museum and a circular-screen cinema.
• Equipped with cable cars for those who prefer not to climb.

Traveler Tips:

• It can be very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Winter visits showcase the wall blanketed in snow, offering stunning views, though it can be quite cold.

Mutianyu Section

Location: About 40 miles (64 kilometers) northeast of Beijing, this section offers a less crowded experience with more rugged terrain and natural beauty.

Features:

• This section has been restored, making it safer for tourists while retaining a more authentic feel compared to Badaling.
• Known for its 23 watchtowers, dense woods, and splendid mountainous scenery.
• Equipped with a cable car, chair lift, and a unique toboggan slide down from the wall.

Traveler Tips:

• Ideal for families and those looking for a less commercialized visit.
• The autumn months offer a spectacular backdrop of colorful foliage.
• Comfortable shoes are a must as some areas can be steep and challenging.

The Great Wall Experience: 

What to expect on The Great Wall of China? Well, first a lot of stairs and some of them need to be climbed vertically.

You can take a cable cart to go up, and you can slide down with a toboggan, which is so fun. The great part is the views. Whenever you are looking, there is an incredible view. 

The Cable car and entrance will cost you around $30 USD.

After visiting the most popular attractions in and near Beijing next that you should visit is Xi’an and its great history.

Mount Huashan 华山

Mount Huashan is one of the Five Sacred Mountains in China and it has an average height of about 2100 meters. It is famous for its breathtaking cliffs and unique natural beauty. Also, it is know as one of the most dangerous mountains, so we recommend to visit with a tour guide. The trail that leads to the summit of Mount Huashan is considered the most dangerous in the word.

It's located in Shaanxi Province, about 120 kilometers east of Xi'an, making it accessible for a day trip or an overnight adventure from the city. 

You can visit Mount Huashan if you choose this amazing China overland tour from Beijing to Kathmandu. 

To save energy for the trek at the top, consider taking the cable car up. There are two routes: the North Peak and the West Peak cable cars.

What to Expect:

• The Plank Walk: Often highlighted as the most thrilling part of the adventure, the Plank Walk in the Sky is an adrenaline-pumping walkway bolted onto the side of a cliff, hundreds of meters above the ground. And we need to add that is dangerous, especially if you are afraid of heights. The good news is that you can buy harnesses for $5 or bring your own.
• Sunrise and Sunset: Many hikers aim to catch the sunrise or sunset, which offers spectacular views across the mountain’s peaks and valleys. The South Peak is a popular spot for these stunning vistas.
• Spiritual Sites: Besides its natural scenery, Huashan features several Taoist temples that offer serene spots to rest and soak in the mountain's spiritual atmosphere.
• There are the Shuanglong Stairs, but they are closed, and they are basically vertical stairs.

Be prepared for a lot of hiking and stairs, but everything is worthed when you see the views over nature.

Mount Huashan is an encounter with nature, spirituality, and physicality that leaves many awestruck and enriched. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual traveler, the mountain offers something.

Terracotta Warriors 兵马俑

The Terracotta Warriors are located in Xi'an, China, and are one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. This vast army of life-sized clay soldiers was buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, to accompany him in the afterlife.

Did you know that it took 720,000 people and 38 years to build the terracotta warriors and horses? And every single statue has a different face, and they are statues based on people's faces.  

The site features thousands of unique figures, including warriors, chariots, and horses, each with distinct facial expressions and poses.

The warriors were discovered in 1974 by local farmers and have since provided invaluable insights into China's ancient history and the Qin Dynasty's military practices.

Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited to preserve the integrity of the artifacts. However, keep in mind that you shouldn’t take a photo with the statue, because the Terracotta Army figures are considered to be part of the burial artifacts of Qin Shi Huang, and taking photos with burial artifacts is considered bad luck.

There are plenty of amenities, including cafes and souvenir shops, but they can be pricey. Bringing your own snacks and water can be a good idea.

Muslim Quarters 西安回民街

Muslim Quarters is located inside the city wall of Xi’an. It is vibrant and full of live streets, it is the hub of the Muslim community in Xi’an.

Narrow streets connect the most of Quarters and we advise you to visit the historic market street that dates more than 1000 years.

The area is famous for its street food, offering a plethora of tastes that include rou jia mo (Chinese hamburger), biang biang noodles, and persimmon pancakes.

The narrow lanes are lined with shops selling a variety of traditional crafts, souvenirs, and antiques. It’s a great place to pick up unique gifts like hand-painted pottery or silk scarves.

Yading Nature Reserve 亚丁

Yading Nature Reserve in Daocheng is one of the most beautiful places on the Tibetan plateau in western Sichuan, famous for its wonderful sceneries including three holy snow-capped mountains, forested valleys, clear rivers, glacier-fed lakes, and abundant wildlife. We have a 7-day overland tour that will take you to the real Shangri-La in the world - Daocheng Yading Nature a Reserve. 

What to expect during this overland China tour? 

The landscapes along the drive and Yading Nature Reserve itself will make the whole journey worthwhile. Additionally, you will also be arranged to visit the Buddhist monastery in Tagong grassland and the Zhonglu Tibetan village in Danba to learn about the Tibetan religion and culture. 

The best time to visit Yading Nature Reserve is from late April to early November.

Danba Zhonglu village 丹巴

Danba Zhonglu village is located in the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, China, and is famous for its beautiful scenery and rich culture. Known as the "Beauty Valley," the village is famous for its ancient stone towers, some of which date back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty. Along with these historic towers, the village has many traditional Tibetan homes that are beautifully decorated. Set against mountains and lush greenery, Zhonglu is a great place for travelers who want to see stunning landscapes and learn about Tibetan culture. The local Tibetan community is very welcoming, making the village a peaceful place for cultural exploration and relaxation.

Daocheng 稻城

Daocheng is often added to China overland tours. It is an area full of magnificent natural beauty. Daocheng is also known as Daocheng Yading, it’s a stunning spot in the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. 

The area is famous for its three sacred mountains—Chenresig, Jambeyang, and Chanadorje. These mountains are important in Tibetan Buddhism and surround beautiful valleys and crystal-clear lakes, making for excellent hiking opportunities. Daocheng is also rich in Tibetan culture, with colorful prayer flags and traditional Tibetan villages throughout the area. 

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Daocheng is from late spring to early fall when the weather is best for outdoor activities. Since Daocheng is very high up, over 4,000 meters above sea level, it offers incredible views and a unique experience, but travelers should be ready for the high altitude.

Bifengxia in Chengdu 大熊猫研究中心碧峰峡基地

Bifengxia located near Chengdu in the Sichuan Province, is a lesser-known gem perfect for travelers who cherish nature and wildlife. This Panda Center is also included in almost every China overland tour, that provides for Chengdu. 

This scenic area is renowned for its lush green Bifeng Gorge, which offers stunning views and exciting hiking trails through its deep and verdant ravines. Bifengxia is also home to a giant panda base, which serves as a more tranquil alternative to the busier Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Visitors can observe these beloved animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitat, offering a unique and intimate wildlife experience. Additionally, the area provides opportunities for zip-lining and exploring waterfalls, making it an excellent destination for adventure seekers. The best time to visit Bifengxia is during the milder months of spring and fall when the weather is comfortable for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

Did you know that here every Panda has their name? Also, the center has a panda kindergarten, for little cubs to play. About 70 padas live in Brifengxia, and you can watch them from a distance.

Lunan Stone Forest in Kunming 石林

Lunan Stone Forest is located near Kunming in Yunnan Province. It offers a fascinating landscape for travelers to explore. This natural wonder features an extensive area of towering limestone formations that resemble a forest made of stone, hence its name. 

The formations, created over 300 million years ago when the underwater world underwent geologic evolution and the sea dried up without rocks decaying, form such a strange geological spectacle. 

The Stone Forest is divided into several parts, each with its unique formations and features. The park is also home to local Yi culture, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional dances, costumes, and cuisine. The Stone Forest is particularly stunning in the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts dramatic shadows and highlights the intricate details of the rocks.

When to visit the Stone Forest

Visiting during the cooler months of spring and autumn is ideal as the weather is more comfortable for walking and exploring. The Stone Forest is easily accessible from Kunming, making it a perfect day trip for those looking to experience one of China’s most unique geological and cultural attractions.

If you decide to take a China overland tour that includes Yunnan Province, then you do not want to miss this amazing Stone Forest and get in the maze for a level-up adventure.

Three Pagoda in Dali 崇圣寺三塔

The Three Pagodas in Chongsheng Temple in Dali is a remarkable historical site that has stood as a testament to the region's rich cultural and architectural heritage. This iconic landmark consists of three ancient pagodas arranged on the corners of an equilateral triangle, which are among the best-preserved Buddhist structures in China, dating back to the time of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms.

The central pagoda, known as Qianxun Pagoda, towers impressively at 69 meters high and was built during the 9th century. The other two smaller pagodas, built centuries later, frame the Qianxun Pagoda beautifully, creating a harmonious symmetry that is visually striking. Together, these structures have withstood centuries of natural disasters, thanks in part to their resilient design and the skilled craftsmanship of their builders.

Visitors to the Three Pagodas can explore the surrounding grounds, which are dotted with smaller temples, statues, and lakes that reflect the pagodas on a sunny day. The site also serves as an excellent vantage point for breathtaking views of the nearby Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, providing a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Ideal time to visit 

The best time to visit the Three Pagodas is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery of Dali is at its most vibrant. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or spirituality, the Three Pagodas Temple offers a unique and enriching experience for every visitor.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Lijiang 玉龙雪山

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is located near Lijiang in Yunnan Province. It stands as a majestic natural landmark and a sacred symbol to the local Naxi people. This stunning mountain range boasts thirteen peaks, with Shanzidou being the highest at 5,596 meters. Its name derives from its snow-capped peaks and craggy green forest slopes, which resemble a jade dragon lying in the clouds.

Visitors to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain can experience a range of activities, from scenic cable car rides that offer awe-inspiring views to challenging treks that explore the mountain's diverse flora and fauna. The area is also home to the impressive Glacier Park, where tourists can walk close to the retreating glaciers that blanket the mountain's higher elevations.

A cultural highlight is the Impression Lijiang performance, a breathtaking open-air show directed by Zhang Yimou and performed by local Naxi, Yi, and Bai ethnic groups against the mountain's dramatic backdrop. The show powerfully captures the heritage and spirit of the region.

Travelers are advised to visit during spring or autumn for the best weather conditions. Preparing for altitude sickness is essential, as the mountain's base starts from 3,000 meters above sea level. Because of the high altitude level, you will have with you an oxygen tank to breathe easily, during your visit.

Whether you're looking for adventure, natural beauty, or cultural enrichment, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain provides an unforgettable experience that highlights the mystical charm of Yunnan. You can visit Jade Dragon Swon Mountain in this China overland tour with us.

Zhangjiajie- Tianmen Mountain 天门山

Tianmen Mountain is located in Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province, and it is famed for its stunning natural landscapes and breathtaking aerial views. Known as the "Gateway to Heaven," the mountain is distinguished by its massive natural arch, Tianmen Cave, which is accessed via a long staircase after a thrilling ride up the world's longest cable car system, stretching 7,455 meters.

Tianmen Mountain is a must-visit no matter which time of the year you are in China. Here is the longest and maybe the most beautiful cable car and the views are just out of this world.

If you are lucky enough you may witness the Parkour competition. Visitors can walk along the cliff-hanging walkway built along the sides of the mountain and venture across the glass skywalks that offer heart-stopping views of the precipices below. The 99 Bends Road that leads to the cable car station is another highlight, famous for its winding and narrow path.

Best time to go

For a truly unique experience, try visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the ethereal beauty of the mists that often shroud the peaks. However, the stairs to heaven are beautiful also at night. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and prepare for weather changes, as the mountain can be quite cool compared to the base.

Whether seeking adventure, tranquility or simply a new perspective, Tianmen Mountain offers an experience that is as profound as it is picturesque.

Guilin 桂林市

Guilin is one of the many locations that you need to visit on your China overland tour. It is located in the northeastern part of China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and is known for its dramatic karst mountain landscape and serene rivers. The city serves as a gateway to picturesque scenes that look straight out of a traditional Chinese painting, particularly along the Li River, which is often shrouded in mist and dotted with bamboo rafts.

A cruise from Guilin down the Li River to the small town of Yangshuo reveals the full splendor of the area's limestone peaks, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and river rafting to explore more closely. The city itself is home to several attractions, including the Reed Flute Cave, known for its stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and Elephant Trunk Hill, which is famously shaped like an elephant dipping its trunk into the river.

Visitors often enjoy the blend of natural beauty with cultural experiences, such as watching cormorant fishermen at work, a traditional fishing method still practiced today. Guilin’s cuisine, which features local ingredients like river snails and rice noodles, also offers a taste of the region’s culinary diversity.

The best time to visit

Ideal time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Guilin is a must-visit for those looking to experience China's natural beauty alongside rich cultural traditions.

Jiuzhaigou 九寨沟风景名胜区

Jiuzhaigou Valley, nestled in the mountains of Sichuan, China, is a fairyland destination famed for its cascading waterfalls, colorful lakes, and diverse ecosystems. This UNESCO World Heritage site is celebrated for its otherworldly beauty, with crystal-clear waters that shimmer in shades of turquoise and blue, set against a backdrop of dramatic green mountains and lush forests.

Visitors to Jiuzhaigou can explore a series of trails that offer views of its most famous attractions, like Mirror Lake, which perfectly reflects the surrounding scenery, and the Five Flower Lake, known for its bottom strewn with ancient fallen tree trunks visible through the clear water. The valley is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the giant panda and the Sichuan takin. 

Every area of the Jiuzhaigou is different and unique and the water color is different in each place as well. 

As a special experience, you can have a photo shoot, wearing traditional Tibetan clothes, and some make-up artists can do your makeup and hear.

The best time to visit 

Jiuzhaigou is in the fall when the foliage turns fiery reds and bright yellows, creating a stunning contrast with the blue lakes. Spring is also beautiful, particularly when the wildflowers bloom. Given its popularity, planning is essential to avoid crowds, especially during national holidays. Jiuzhaigou is a captivating destination for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the serene and pristine beauty of one of China's most spectacular natural landscapes.

Shanghai 上海

Shanghai is a must-visit modern city on your China overland tour. It is a dynamic metropolis at the heart of China's economic boom and is a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers tower above traditional Shikumen lanes. Shanghai is a city in China, it's a global hub for commerce, culture, and finance, featuring the iconic Bund with its colonial architecture along one side and the futuristic skyline of Pudong on the other, highlighted by the Oriental Pearl Tower.

What to visit and do in Shanghai

If your time allows visit all the things that Shanghai has to offer, if you don’t have so much time, then these are visits and things to do in Shanghai

Yu Garden is located in the heart of Shanghai, and it is a classical Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. You can see the traditional architecture, pavilions, rockeries, and ponds that create a harmonious blend of nature and artistry. 

The Bund is located along the Huangpu River, and its famous waterfront area known for architecture and iconic skyline views. The area is most visited in the evening hours because of the light of the buildings and the vibrant colors of the riverfront.

Nanjinglu Street is a renowned shopping street, divided into East and West sections. The district is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse retail options, and historical significance. 

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town- Visiting Zhu Jia Jiao Ancient Town in Shanghai is like stepping back in time and it's known as Shanghai Venice. The town is so peaceful and tranquil, that gives you a feeling that you are back in time. You can explore the town, visit the market buy some of the unique souvenirs, and always make time for a lovely cup of tea. 

If you have time like a day or two extra in Shanghai you should visit Disneyland. You will have an amazing experience.

When to visit Shanghai

Ideal visit times are spring and autumn when the weather is mild and conducive to exploring the outdoor and architectural wonders of this ever-evolving city. Whether seeking history, shopping, or modern attractions, Shanghai provides a compelling mix that captures the essence of both China's past and its futuristic ambitions.

We have many tours for Shanghai, but check out this China overland tour that includes visiting Shanghai.

Potala Palace

Potala Palace is the most mysterious temple, it's located above the city of Lhasa, and is an iconic symbol of Tibet and a stunning testament to Tibetan Buddhist architecture. 

This architectural marvel was the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959. Its towering white walls and gilded roofs stand out against the backdrop of the blue Tibetan skies, making it a majestic sight that dominates the Lhasa skyline.

Many tourists lick the white walls of the Potala Palace, and they say it has a taste of milk and sugar. It is hard to believe that the walls are actually splashed with milk.

If Potala Palace is one of the attractions that you will visit on your China overland tour then you will experience the charming beauty of the various chapels and halls, each richly adorned with intricate murals and exquisite Tibetan art that tell stories of Buddhist theology and the history of Tibet. Due to the site's spiritual significance and delicate conservation needs, visitor numbers are limited, and tours are timed to protect the integrity of the structure.

The Best time to visit Potala Palace

The best times to visit are in the spring and fall when Lhasa experiences milder weather. From late spring to early autumn. Tourists should be prepared for the altitude, as Lhasa is over 3,500 meters above sea level, and climbing the many steps to the palace can be strenuous. A visit to Potala Palace is not only a journey through a monument of great historical and religious significance but also a profound immersion into the spiritual heart of Tibetan culture.

Shigatse 

Shigatse is Tibet's second-largest city and is a significant cultural and religious center located in the southwestern part of the region. It serves as a gateway to the Himalayas and is often a key stop for travelers heading to Mount Everest Base Camp. When you are in Shigatze you will visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, which is one of the most important monasteries in Tibet. 

The city itself offers a blend of modern developments and traditional Tibetan life, with bustling markets where local crafts, Tibetan jewelry, and religious artifacts can be found. The surrounding landscape provides breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau, with opportunities for trekking and exploring rural Tibetan villages.

Best time to go 

Travelers are advised to visit Shigatse in the spring or autumn when the weather is most favorable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It’s important to acclimatize to the high altitude and carry necessary travel permits, as Shigatse is a regulated travel area. A visit to Shigatse offers deep insights into Tibetan Buddhism, spectacular views, and a touch of adventure, making it a memorable part of any trip to Tibet. Here it is a 15-day Yunnan tour that includes visiting Shitatze.

Advice when you travel to Tibet

Because of the high altitude, it is advisable to be at a high altitude place like Lhasa for at least two days before going to other places in Tibet. Also, if is possible to travel overland from China to Tibet for gradual acclimatization. If you have altitude sickness, please do not panic, it will be better for about two days. Use an oxygen tank if your symptoms are getting worse. Here we have a complete guide on how to avoid altitude sickness if your China overland tour includes visiting high-altitude places like Tibet.

Final words

Choosing one of the China overland tours will be a tough thing to do because every tour is unique and amazing at the same time. From the busy streets of Beijing to the ancient city of Xi'an, from the beautiful Guilin to the mystical mountains of Zhangjiajie, each place shows a different side of China's rich history and stunning nature. On these tours, you can walk along the Great Wall, see the Terracotta Warriors, or immerse yourself in the unique culture of Tibet. Taking an overland tour in China offers a deep dive into the country's past and present, providing unforgettable experiences and a deep appreciation for one of the world's oldest civilizations.