Travel agents understand that China is a top vacation destination because of its beauty, culture, and personality. So much so, that it can be overwhelming to plan activities and tours for everyone in the travel party. To combat this, we created a list describing the finest points in China to add to your itinerary. In the first part of our guide, we provided the best stops for clients interested in history, hiking, shopping, and eating. In this last part, we’ll divulge beautiful locations for families, photographers, explorers, artists, and architects!
CHINA FOR THE FAMILY
Acrobatics Show
One of China’s most unique features is its internationally recognized performance groups. During the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD), acrobatics rose to popularity and two distinct styles emerged: martial arts style and circus style. It’s an exhilarating experience to watch the acrobats perform feats of strength, flexibility, and coordination while incorporating elements of traditional Chinese music and theater. We recommend booking a ticket to the prominent Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe held at Circus World—which also features magic shows and wild animals.
Giant Pandas
Whether your client is traveling with young or old children, this activity is sure to put a smile on their faces. China is dedicated to the protection and repopulation of Giant pandas, and six locations throughout the country care for the nation’s favorite animal. The country saw a terrifying decrease in the Giant panda population during the 1980s and has been taking extreme efforts to remove them from the endangered species list. At the protective bases, your traveler can observe the animals, learn from the keepers, and responsibly explore their habitat. The Duijangyan Panda Base is our favorite location, but Wolong Panda Base is also an incredible spot to see the pandas.
CHINA FOR THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Rice Terraces
Without a doubt, the rice terraces in China are some of the most unique sights in the world. One of the most beautiful examples is the Longji Rice Terraces, which were created during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). The rice fields are near the city of Guilin, and the two most popular places to visit while photographing are the Dazhai and Ping’an Villages. You’ll capture amazing photographs in both villages on a hike, private tour, or cable car ride to various viewpoints. Walking around the restaurants and shops run by local farmers will also provide great opportunities for pictures!
The Red Land
Another haven for shutterbugs is Dongchuan Red Land, but the locals prefer to call it “God’s Magic Palette” or “The Color Kingdom.” Fields of terraces in every shade of red dominate the foreground, outshining Brazil’s oxidized soil, as mountains rise in the backdrop. There are tons of photography spots around Dongchuan, but our favorites include Jinxiu Yuan, also called “Embroidery Garden,” and Shuipingzi, also called “The Moon Field.” The alluring names are almost as beautiful as the fields themselves!
CHINA FOR THE EXPLORER
Wuzhen Water Town
Small black stone houses studded along Wuzhen Water Town contrast with the white walls and bridges crossing over the Yangtze River. The river splits the town into four sections: two are local living quarters, and two are scenic areas which require a ticket. There are dozens of workshops, museums, theaters, and markets lining the canals. The Chinese Foot Binding Culture Museum, Indigo Fabric Workshop, and Wuzhen Market on Water are great spots for learning ancient Chinese traditions! Plus, we can help find local tour guides to help your client shop and communicate with the vendors.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
In 1982, China opened its first National Park in the Hunan Province, which boasts 480,000 sq m (185 sq mi) of land. The alien landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Park will transport travelers to a different universe, where they’re free to play and explore. The park most notably features gigantic pillar-like quartz-sandstone formations wrapped in foliage. A few favorite local spots are: Yellow Stone Stronghold, Golden Whip Stream, and Yuanjiajie. Clients can also step into the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, and ride to the top in minutes!
CHINA FOR THE ARTIST & ARCHITECT
The Temple of Heaven
There are 3 buildings that make up the Temple Complex: The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, The Imperial Vault of Heaven, and The Circular Mound Altar. Suggest that your clients pay special attention to the layout, structure, bright colors, and decorations that make it a notable site of Chinese ritual architecture. There is heavy symbolism through the complex in the form of squares and circles, which represent Earth and Heaven, and the number 9, which represents the emperor. The emperor spent a lot of time at the Temple of Heaven because multiple ceremonies and rituals required their heavenly leadership.
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is one of China’s first world-class modern museums, located in the Huangpu District of Shanghai. The exterior will provide your client with a contrast of modern architecture on the outside and 120,000 ancient relics on the inside. Their galleries include treasures of ancient Chinese sculpture, bronze, ceramic, calligraphy, painting, furniture, jade, and currency.
We recommend using the WINGS Booking Engine to book a private guide to take clients through the exhibits while providing history and commentary.
Tour China Today!
If your clients are traveling to China, then don’t stress yourself out scouring the internet for local tours and activities. The WINGS Booking Engine has hundreds of tours around the country, activities to participate in, and cruises along the Huangpu River. The possibilities are endless, and we’re here to help you! Get started for free today and discover our different membership options and exclusive WINGS perks!