China is a big country that’s almost as large as the whole of Europe. That is why it is no surprise that China is quite diverse in terms of its terrain, climate, architecture, and culture. When visiting, one can marvel at its spectacular urbanism as well as natural gems and rich history that shines next to fascinating innovations.
We’ve collected a bunch of different photos that capture different parts of the Chinese landscape. Together, they illustrate how varied the country really is. Scroll down to see the broad range of beautiful vistas and a variety of other interesting tidbits you can find in China.
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Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park
I find stuff like this fascinating! At some point those vertical /diagonal lines in the mountains were horizontal. Geological forces are amazing.
Chinese history spans over millennia and is marked by many cultural achievements and philosophical and geopolitical shifts. Over the years, it’s been ruled by many different dynasties that have seen the country through prosperous times as well as hardships. It’s gone through multiple unifications and fractions but always continued to be under an imperial rule that spanned from 221 BC to the revolution in 1911.
Known for their harsh rule, the Quin dynasty unified different warring states into what we now know as China and established the imperial rule. The hard-working commoners at that time built the country’s infrastructure as well as The Great Wall of China. The Han dynasty that came after, ushered the golden age of culture into the country by opening up the Silk Road and spreading Confucianism. The country’s art, literature, and technology also flourished during the Tang rule, while the population reached 100 million when the Song dynasty was in power. The Yuan dynasty introduced the Mongol rule, the Mings increased urbanization, and the Quing dynasty concluded the run of emperors.
You can see traces of the impressive history of the country when visiting popular sites such as the Terracotta Army, the Forbidden City, or the Temple of Heaven.
Shared Pool At A Housing Complex In China
These Balconies In Guiyang, China
If you’re more impressed by natural attractions, China has a lot to offer there too. In this mosaic of landscapes, you can witness the greatness of the Himalayan mountains as well as the vastness of the eastern plains and everything in between. For example, the dreamy Zhangjiajie's "floating" peaks are a true natural wonder. These sandstone pinnacles that stand together like a forest have inspired the landscape of the movie “Avatar.” And, surprisingly or not, that’s not only stone forest in the country. If you happen to be in China and are up for seeing another one, just drop by Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park where you can marvel at another set of spectacular formations.
Another star of the Chinese natural world is the Zhangye Danxia mountain range. They have been nicknamed Rainbow Mountains for its impressive color palette. If you’re looking for more impressive colorful views, visit the Jiuzhaigou nature reserve and national park in Sichuan that is home to over 100 multicolored lakes. Feast your eyes on the emerald green, sapphire blue, rosy red, and apricot yellow lakes embedded between the majestic mountains.
Avatar Mountains - Zhangjiajie, China - Also Known As An Inspiration For Pandora. P.S. The Echo Here Is Incredible
New Bookstore In Chengdu, China
This Vertical Forest In Foshan, China. This Building Is Fortified With Lush Vegetation That Fights Air Pollution By Absorbing CO2 And Producing Oxygen
Last thing I heard about this, 6 months ago, was that almost everybody moved, because the plants they chose attracted too many unfriendly bugs, due to the local climate, too. This made it impossible to use the balconies and they too found their way via vents, ducts and occasionally open doors and windows to the inside. Less is sometimes more.
China is also home to multiple species of beautiful and, coincidentally, really cute animals, giant pandas being the most revered ones. Chinese high-altitude forests inhabit two very adorable and, unfortunately, endangered species: red pandas (that are not actually related to giant pandas) and golden snub-nosed monkeys. If you’re more of a cat person, know that China has the biggest Siberian tiger park. The clouded leopard is another big cat that has made the Himalayas its home.
KFC China Has 2-In-1 Fried Chicken Plus Coke, Known As Lazy Cup
The Mountains Surrounding Xingping, A Small Village On The Banks Of The Li River (Guilin, China)
Buildings In Chengdu, Sichuan, China
So do the residents put the plants there or is it the building ? Who/how are they cared for? As a plant lover, this is so much nicer on the eyes than grey concrete and metal.
When it comes to architectural gems, China also has a lot to offer. There are, of course, the old classics, like the stunning Potala Palace, the impressive Summer Palace, and many beautiful Pagodas. But the modern creations also fascinate many. Like the CCTV headquarters that appears to defy gravity and the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai that lets you see the city from a bird’s eye view.
The 88-Metre-High Statue Depicts Yang’asha, A Deity Worshipped By The Miao, A Local Ethnic Group In Guizhou, China
These Beautiful Rice Terraces Have Been In Use For Over A Thousand Years, Providing Water For Crops In 82 Villages To This Day
When Nature Takes Over. Abandoned Village On The Island (Shengsi Islands)
Book lovers will be impressed by the interior of the Tianjin Binhai Library. Spread over five floors and 363,000 square feet, it is able to hold 1.2 million books. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have that many books there because the main space cannot be used for book storage. This was caused by the rushed construction timeline. That’s why the backs of the books were printed on film and used to give an impression of a fully stacked collection.
Warrior God Guan Hu Statue, 58 Meters Tall, 1,197 Tonnes, Jingzhou, China
This Carousel In Hong Kong Has A Sea Turtle Mounted To The Floor For Disabled Children
This Is The End Of The Great Wall Of China. Obviously, It Has To End Somewhere But It Is Still So Weird To See
Fun History lesson about the Great Wall: It was first several separate walls built during the Warring States period (in the 300s and 200s BC I think). When the state of Qin unified China to create the 'first' Dynasty, the emperor ordered for the walls to be connected and strengthened. The Han dynasty further expanded these walls with rammed earth and straw. Much later, in the 1400s and 1500s, the Ming dynasty built most of what is now still standing as the Great Wall, after overthrowing the previous Mongol-led Yuan Dynasty. The wall acted as an effective barrier to the north before the Manchus attacked and established the Qing Dynasty in 1644. (Hopefully I got all of that right, apologies if I made mistakes)
Another place that used this same technique to trick book lovers into believing they have an immense stock of books is Dujiangyan Zhongshuge bookstore, located in Chengdu. Of course, the decision is understandable as customers will not be able to reach books that are placed so high up. It would also quicky become a huge headache for those maintaining the cleanliness of the space. And, to be fair, they do house over 80,000 books, so the collection is still impressive enough.
Ice Castle In China
There’s A Solar Farm In China Shaped Like A Panda
In Shanghai, A Unique Underground Hotel. It Utilizes An Abandoned Quarry And The Bottom Two Levels Are Completely Underwater
If you’re fascinated by the way modern architecture incorporates greenery into the buildings, you’ll be impressed by the apartment complexes in Chengdu, Sichuan. The so-called vertical forests have terraces that are overflowing with as many as 20 types of greenery. Build to combat smog and noise pollution, the impressive complexes had a lot of promise. However, the warm and humid climate led to a horrible mosquito infestation. Soon, all of the 826 apartments were abandoned.
Terracotta Army In Xian, China
I took these photos of the terracotta warriors in Xi’an about a year ago and it still remains one of the most interesting places I’ve visited in China. The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It was buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE with the purpose of protecting him in his afterlife. The terracotta warriors were only discovered in 1974 by accident when farmers were digging a well and found fragments of the warriors which prompted archeologists to investigate.
They were beautifully painted at one time. All with different features.
A Bar Hidden Behind An Old Coca-Cola Machine In Shanghai, China
Yipianwachan Temple In Mount Taimu
This temple is made of copper. Mount Taimu is located in the northeastern part of Fujian Province, about 45 kilometers (27.96 miles) south of Fuding City. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, the mountain is a popular site due to its gorgeous natural scenery and many cultural sites.
The mountain features steep peaks, caves, brooks, waterfalls and ancient temples. It consists of five sections: Taimu Shanyue, Jiuli Stream and Waterfall, Qingchuan Seaside Area, Sangyuan Green Lake and the Fuyao Islands. Aside from those, there are two other scenic spots on the mountain: Lengcheng Ancient Castle and Ruiyun Temple. The marvelous view of the mountain from afar has earned itself the beautiful name "immortal mountain on the sea".
But it’s not all that bad. For those who like buildings that look like other things, the Sanya Beauty Crown Hotel is for you. A complex made out of nine buildings made to look like trees is impressive during the day and at night when it’s lit up with multicolored lights. With lavish interiors and an elaborate decor, this 7-star hotel is perfect for those looking for a luxurious experience.
Fairytale Castle, Guizhou, China
Thanks I'll move in tomorrow. Also, once I'm in, could you just take away the bridge?
Chengdu Tea Master
While I was in Chengdu I was trying to find a certain tea house that I’ve seen online a long time ago. It took me a while but I finally managed to find an address online that lead me to the outskirts of the city.
As I arrived at the tea village, I saw many of the shops and tea houses were closed. I thought to myself that this tea shop might have closed down and I won’t be able to visit it.
With a bit of exploring around the area, I found this lovely gentleman who owns one of the tea houses. We had a bit of a chat and he kindly agreed to let me take photos of him. I bought some tea from him and then the theatrics started.
I just tried twisting my arm like that and I think I dislocated something.
This Intricate Jade Carving At A Hotel In China
WOW. I have no idea if it is still there but - Hong Kong - mid 80s - I visited a 'museum of jade and ivory'. I do not recall its official name. It was full of AMAZING carvings. Some of it used to be owned by emperors and such. really, really intricate work and some of the subjects were things that I as an American would not have chosen for that much effort. One example I recall is a large (2-3 feet) praying mantis on top of a bowl of fruit - all carved out of jade. There were guards standing around with submachine guns to make sure you didn't mess with their stuff. I recall thinking how sad it would be if they ever had to use those machine guns because they would probably destroy a bunch of art that wasn't replaceable. Anyway - it was impressive and cool memory and something I just sort of chanced upon when walking around Hong Kong.
All in all, China has a lot to offer. Like, a lot, a lot. So, if you ever plan on visiting this big country, make sure to get yourself a detailed itinerary. And grab a camera to snap some memorable pictures that can later get on one of our lists.
My Hotel In China Has A Card To Give To A Taxi Driver So You Can Find Your Way Back
This is a good idea anywhere you stay, even when the language is the same. When I check into a hotel I always take one of their business cards and tuck it in my wallet. It is easy to forget the address of your hotel. I've also been in towns where you can't just say, "The Holiday Inn" or "The Hyatt" or whatever because then you find out there are three or four of them in that town and you have to know which one.
Library In China That Holds 1.2 Million Books
Snack Serving Robot In China Upset With Me Because I Didn't Take Any Snacks
This UV Handrail Sterilizer On An Escalator In Hong Kong
Longmen Grottoes Of Luoyang City, Henan, China. These Huge Caves And Statues Date From 400AD And Have UNESCO Status
Massive "Buddha's Palm", A Piece Of Earth Art. The Palm Occupies An Area Of 40,000 Square Meters, Equaling Six Soccer Fields
Someone has been watching Kung Fu Hustle! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owJ-GmQXsVY
Mountain Emei Above Clouds
It’s in the Sichuan Province of China. A beautiful place. When you reach the top it looks like you’re surrounded by a sea of clouds all around when you try to look down. Went there in my very first semester of university when I could barely speak any Chinese and it still remains my favorite trip I’ve been on when living in China.
Entrance Exam For An Art School In China
In An Effort To Boost Tourism The Xinhua Village In China Built A Giant QR Code From 130,000 Trees So It Can Be Scanned By Passing Planes
Plot twist: A disgruntled gardener plants one more tree and Rick Rolls an entire generation of would-be tourists.
Tianmen Mountain In Zhangjiajie, China
These Buildings In Sanya, China Look Like Trees
Chinese Traditional Dragon Costumes In Shanghai
The Abandoned God Of Wealth, Anji County, Zhejiang, China
Buddha's Hand Bridge, Fujian
World’s Tallest Outdoor Elevator Climbs An Amazing 1,070 Feet Up A Mountain Cliff In Zhangjiajie, China
This Is The Bridge Separating China And Macau, Because You Drive In The Left Lane In Macau And The Right Lane In China This Is How They Switch From Left To Right And Vice Versa
China Has Vending Machines For Books
That's cool. Finished up the novel you were reading and the library is closed? "Vend-a-book" has you covered 👌🏽
Phoenix Ancient Town
These traditional homes were built next to a river and these stilts are used to support the houses to stop them from falling into the river. Would you stay the night in one of these?
They've survived for who knows how long so I wouldn't have a problem staying in one.
Made In China. Representing Prosperity, Good Fortune And Longevity, This Hotel May Well Be The Most Interesting Work Of Art I’ve Ever Seen
The Chess Pavilion, Huashan, China
Where the gods meet to play chess. I took this photo near Xi’An on Mount Hua. According to a legend, Emperor Zhao Kuangyin played chess with the sage Chen Tuan in this pavilion. I’m not really into chess so I made a cup of coffee on the mountain and enjoyed the view instead. Who’d like a cup of coffee here?
The Gum I Bought In Hong Kong Comes With Paper To Wrap Your Gum In After You're Done Chewing It
Or… It’s cowboy gum and the paper is for rolling your own cigarettes. One-handed.
Very Cyberpunk Scene In China, Photo By My Friend In Suzhou
The Duge Bridge, Also Called The Beipanjiang Bridge. As Of 2021, The Bridge Is The Highest In The World
With the road deck sitting over 565 meters (1,854 ft) above the Beipan river.
Terrifying Glass Walkway In China
A terrifying glass walkway slithers around the vertical cliffs of the mountain, bringing adrenaline junkies to new heights. The skywalk sits 4,700 feet up the mountain, offering breathtaking views and spine-tingling thrills.
The crystal clear bridge is 3 feet wide, 2 1/2 inches thick and winds around the mountain for 200 feet. While the landscape imparts a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains, this is one scenic route you’ll want to walk gazing downward.
The skyway offers a unique vista of the mountainous summits that launch out of the dense foliage of the park underneath. Clouds sometimes obscure the spectacle underfoot, but hey, it’s not everyday you get to walk on a cloud.
World's Deepest Sinkhole In China
Xiaozhai Tiankeng is 511 m deep from the lowest point of the vertical wall's rim. Its upper section is 600 m in diameter. The lower section is 300 m across, with vertical cliffs over 300 m high round its entire perimeter, except where a steep fan of collapse debris is banked against its northern wall.
To those of you who don't understand how meters work: it's hella deep, hella wide, hella no.
Guangzhou Circle Is A Landmark Building Located In Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China. It Takes A Reference From An Idea Of The Italian Renaissance
Note: this post originally had 89 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.
There’s great history there, and no disrespect to the common folk, but let’s not forget that this country is run by an authoritarian regime that continuously tramples all over human rights. No impressive libraries or cutely decorated CCTV cameras can hide that.
I just got banned from my chinese social media for supporting ukraine :|
Load More Replies... Im disappointed. I scrolled through all of this and not one picture of a Uyghur camp. I hear they are the real bright spot. *sarcasm*
I have no idea why you are getting downvoted. China sounds like an amazing place with a rich cultural history and amazing people, but there is no denying the government's human rights violations. It takes a couple minutes to Google what is happening to the Uyghurs to get many disturbing articles from USAID, UNICEF, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International. People can continue to deny it, but there are numerous articles and videos from verified sources that say otherwise.
Load More Replies...
Yes....China is like no other. They're the only country with a "social credit" system. Your score goes too low, you cant ride the bus, can't buy groceries, can't leave your house. And they publicly shame you on video screens across the city. It's the Black Mirror episode "Nosedive" brought to dystopian, oppressive reality. And don't even get me started on the widespread slave labor and persecution of the Uyghurs
Or the fact if yo uspeak about anything, you never speak again....
Load More Replies... There’s great history there, and no disrespect to the common folk, but let’s not forget that this country is run by an authoritarian regime that continuously tramples all over human rights. No impressive libraries or cutely decorated CCTV cameras can hide that.
I just got banned from my chinese social media for supporting ukraine :|
Load More Replies... Im disappointed. I scrolled through all of this and not one picture of a Uyghur camp. I hear they are the real bright spot. *sarcasm*
I have no idea why you are getting downvoted. China sounds like an amazing place with a rich cultural history and amazing people, but there is no denying the government's human rights violations. It takes a couple minutes to Google what is happening to the Uyghurs to get many disturbing articles from USAID, UNICEF, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International. People can continue to deny it, but there are numerous articles and videos from verified sources that say otherwise.
Load More Replies... Yes....China is like no other. They're the only country with a "social credit" system. Your score goes too low, you cant ride the bus, can't buy groceries, can't leave your house. And they publicly shame you on video screens across the city. It's the Black Mirror episode "Nosedive" brought to dystopian, oppressive reality. And don't even get me started on the widespread slave labor and persecution of the Uyghurs
Or the fact if yo uspeak about anything, you never speak again....
Load More Replies...