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Since China is such a large country, it only makes sense that it has tons of landmarks to visit from end to end. But realistically, it’s difficult for even those living in China to see them all. For visitors, it’s best to pick and choose from the best sights and add them to your itinerary.
The lengthy history of China makes it a fascinating place even if you’re not a so-called history buff. Choosing from China’s stellar landmarks is a difficult choice, but if you’re only visiting briefly, you should not miss out on these 3 best sights to see in China.
The Great Wall of China – Beijing
It’s the world’s longest wall though the myth has been debunked that you can see it from space. Never mind that though. Seeing it up close and personal is beyond impressive. The mountain tops surrounding it and the vast ancient architecture will inspire awe in you, guaranteed. It’s hard not to be impressed by it.
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The Great Wall of China is one of the seven wonders and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stretches from China’s western frontier to the east coast for a total of about 3,100 miles. While you can access parts of it in other northern areas of the country, the best sections are those close to Beijing as they are better preserved. The wall is a bit steep in places but is absolutely worth the trek. Join a renowned English-speaking day tour to get the best experience.
The Terracotta Army – Xi’an
For well over 2,000 years the Terracotta Army was hidden underground, completely unknown. Then in 1974, farmers digging a well discovered what would soon be hailed as one of the greatest archaeological sites on the planet. The Terracotta Army was named a World Cultural Heritage site in 1987.
Photos do not do it just because these hundreds of intricately detailed life-sized models depicted the triumphant army that won in the Warring States Period from 475 to 221 BC. This was how a united China was formed. Walking among it, there truly are no words to describe it other than absolute awe.
The Forbidden City – Beijing
Another Beijing landmark and World Cultural Heritage site, it would be a sin to leave the Forbidden City off this list. The imperial palace for 24 emperors, this was once a place city where ordinary people were not allowed in, hence the name “Forbidden City.” The extravagant Chinese architecture with over 8,000 rooms and glittering golden roofs show you just how these royals lived.
It was the imperial palace for both the Ming and Qing dynasties, serving as such for 560 years, until 1911. The Forbidden Palace is up there on the ranks of one of the most important palaces in the world. With a distinction like that, this treasure of ancient Chinese cultural and historical relics is surely one of the best things you’ll see in China.
Don’t miss these sights in China, and do yourself a favor…see as many of the others that you can. You won’t regret it!
