Did you find your way to Colorado and the Grand Canyon? Did you use our handy travel guide? If so–or if not–there’s one last trip to take in Project Bold Life’s summer adventure travel series. How do you feel about checking out… China?
Beijing: The Heart of China
For numerous reasons, starting your trip to China with a visit to Beijing is the best beginning of your itinerary. The country’s bustling capital, Beijing, perfectly blends ancient and modern China. Despite the city’s high-tech lifestyle and high-rise buildings, many iconic sites from centuries past are still well-preserved for visitors and locals.
The Forbidden City is a must-visit for history buffs and travelers who love ancient architecture. The sprawling imperial palace in the heart of Beijing had once housed the Chinese Imperial family and its courts. Created in 1406, the massive palace complex can leave any visitor in awe.
Explore the outer courts by entering from the Meridian Gate to enjoy the view of the Golden Water River. Visitors can cross the river through the five bridges to reach the Gate of Supreme Harmony, where you can check three palaces known for their dimensions and intricate woodwork.
Forbidden City’s inner courts begin when you enter the Gate of Heavenly Purity. Several halls and structures fill the area, but the most popular places are The Hall of Celestial and Terrestrial Union and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility.
But no trip to Beijing is complete without taking a trek along the Great Wall of China. The Mutianyu section has fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere for a more enjoyable hike.
Xi’an: Taking A Glimpse of Ancient China
Xi’an is the home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, a massive army crafted to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. One of the world’s most famous archaeological discoveries, the vast terracotta army would make anyone feel the absolute power of emperors in Ancient China nearly 2,000 years ago.
Besides the Terracotta Army, Xi’an has its Ancient City Wall, offering all visitors a unique experience and view of the city. The oldest surviving wall in China provides panoramic scenery of the locality and a tranquil, unforgettable experience of cycling or walking at the top.
Chengdu: Pandas and Tea Houses Galore
If you’re looking for something more adorable and laid-back for your China trip itinerary, then adding Chengdu to your places to visit is a must. The city is famous for its spicy cuisine, numerous tea houses, laid-back activities, and cute pandas.
Visitors can check The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and view their pandas lounging in the shade, eating bamboo, and being adorable. The staff recommends guests visit during the early hours as the pandas are most active, from tumbling over their enclosures to climbing trees.
After a panda-filled morning, take a break and visit one of the city’s traditional teahouses. Chengdu’s tea culture is unlike any other, and one everyone can enjoy doing on a summer afternoon. Take a sip of jasmine tea in a bamboo garden, laze around, and watch locals play mahjong.
Shanghai: A Futuristic Skyline with Ancient Roots
Although China is where the past and the future collide, Shanghai is the best example. The city is a glittering metropolis with futuristic skylines that can take everyone’s breath away. Shanghai’s The Bund showcases a perfect contrast between the futuristic skyscrapers in Pudong and the old colonial-era buildings across the Huangpu River.
Spend the evening strolling along The Bund and enjoy the scenery and the cool summer breeze. Visitors can also explore the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden at the heart of Shanghai. The garden is the best place for those needing a peaceful retreat from the city’s modern and fast-paced living. Yu Garden has intricate rockeries, koi-filled ponds, and traditional pavilions that present Shanghai’s ancient architecture and way of living.
Shanghai is also famous for its street food and lively markets around the city. Explore food stalls and taste authentic soup dumplings, Chinese crepes, and meat skewers.
Zhangjiajie: The Floating Mountains of Avatar
Zhangjiajie in Hunan Province is home to the breathtaking Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The park has towering sandstone pillars that became James Cameron’s inspiration for the floating mountains in his film, Avatar.
Another viral attraction is the Glass Skywalk. The transparent pathway suspended thousands of feet above the ground is not for the faint-hearted. Walking along the path is a perfect test of courage for any adventurer. It could be a frightening experience but the panoramic view is worth every second.
In addition, visitors can also enjoy a cable car ride to Tianmen Mountain. Famous for being the longest cable ride in the world, it offers riders the most jaw-dropping view of Zhangjiajie’s mountains and valleys. During summer, the greenery and waterfalls are at their most vibrant, creating a picturesque landscape.
Don’t forget the book that lays out the principles of goal-achievement and attaining a Bold Life!
