Top Five Reasons To Travel To China

Arguably one of the world’s largest and ancient civilizations, it is not by chance that China boasts of a number of both famous and lesser-known gems and attractions. Equally, this beautiful nation has lots of outstanding human-made attractions that might even rival some of its remarkable natural wonders.

From the singing sands of Badain Jaran Desert to the picturesque karst scenery in Yangshuo and Guilin, the scenic lakes in Jiuzhaigou and to the some of the tallest statues and buildings on the planet, China’s diverse natural beauty is just as incredible as its unique and distinct culture.

Clear water lakes of Jiuzhaigou, China – pic by Sharonang [CC0] via Pixabay

Many countries in the world are only limited to one type of geography; however, the size of China implies that there is pretty much any type of natural setting that you can explore. It’s no wonder that, every year, almost 60 millions tourists visit this country and nearly 600,000 foreigners have made their careers in China. Let’s explore the top 5 reasons as to why you need to add China to your bucket list.

1. Incredible food options.

If you didn’t know, China has a fascination with food that is known to satisfy and benefit nearly anyone who visits the country. In fact, food is not just a social event, but, it is the pillar of the Chinese culture. Simply put, food has a special meaning to the Chinese.

A steaming bowl of Dandan noodles – Sichuan cuisine – pic by Sharonang [CC0] via Pixabay

There are lots of culinary options in China and it is imperative to note that every region boats its own particular specialties and taste. For instance, Sichuan cuisine is known for its spiciness, whereas the Shanghai cuisine is craved for its sweetness. Other notable specialties include the Shandong cuisine, Anhui and Fujian cuisines, Hunan cuisine as well as the Zhejiang cuisine. You’ll just have to travel there to get a real taste of the variety of authentic Chinese cuisines.

2. More than five thousand years of history!

You may not be a history buff, but it would be unwise to not appreciate and adore the historical importance of China as a nation. The Chinese civilization dates back thousands of centuries ago. Even though its turbulent modern history has perhaps erased some of the ancient cultures, there is still so much history to explore. From the old walled cities and camels on the Silk Road to the Beijing opera and the favorite historical Kungfu, you have lots of cultural activities to take part in and enjoy and appreciate. [click here for information about backpacking the silk road]

Mid autumn festivities and market in China – reasons to travel to China – pic by Ptksgc [CC0] via Pixabay

What’s more, the Chinese people are known to celebrate a seemingly endless series of festivals all year round. A significant number of these cultural celebrations usually take place on important dates in the traditional Chinese lunar calendar. Simply put, nearly everything you’ll be doing in China will prove to be an extraordinary cultural experience.

3. A variety of unique wildlife

Visit China, and you’ll be seeing and even touching giant pandas, the camels, and even the angry tigers! If you were not aware, the number of pandas around the globe has been decreasing rapidly in the last few decades, and as sad as it is to say, they may not be around much longer!

Adorable Panda in China – reasons to visit China – pic by Cimberley [CC0] via Pixabay

Thankfully, China is currently one of the few places where you can actually get a glimpse of the endangered pandas in their natural habitat. It would be an excellent idea to grab this fantastic chance and see the pandas while they are still around! Of course, if you are willing to help conserve this precious animal faced with extinction, there are several conservation programs that you can join and make a difference during your stay.

It is not just about pandas alone! In fact, you can venture to the far west of the Gobi desert and see and perhaps ride a camel. If you are courageous enough, you have the opportunity to come face-to-face with the least cuddly Siberian Tigers!

4. The Great Wall is waiting for you!

The Chinese Great Wall, being one of the wonders of the world, implies that the prospect of seeing it in person is arguably a lifetime opportunity that you should never miss! The Great Wall is more than 6,000 kilometers long, and the most popular sections of it to visit are around Beijing’s east and north.

The Great Wall of China in a rural setting – pic by Panayota [CC0] via Pixabay

For a more fulfilling adventure, visiting the Wild Great Wall will give you the chance to get further out into the rural setting and have a full view of this incredible monument on the fantastic backdrop of China’s rural.

5. The Chinese medicine and massage centers

The Chinese people have what’s believed to be an effective and ancient history of medicines built on a foundation of more than 3,000 years. The traditional Chinese medicine is made up of various forms of practices such as herbal medicine, massage (tui na), acupuncture, and exercise or qigong as well as various dietary therapies.

Traditional Chinese medicine and herbs – pic by Vivi14216 [CC0] via Pixabay

Thanks to their efficiency, the traditional Chinese medicine is slowly creeping its way into all areas of the globe, including North America, Europe, as well as in Africa. China boasts of countless spa and massage centers, where you can find nearly anything you can think of and at a reasonably affordable cost.

Many locals unwind by spending their evenings at some of the bath-houses such as the Xiao Nan Guo Spa, located in Shanghai, where you can go and immerse your body, get massaged, manicured, scrubbed thoroughly and fed at a very affordable price. Undoubtedly, these are all incredible types of therapeutic activities that you can’t afford to miss.

The Bottom Line

From the ancient to the modern-day culture, there are possibly endless exciting attractions and world-famous landmarks that make China your favorite destination. If you are an individual who is planning a vacation and is full of a sense of adventure, then you probably have every reason to make this amazing country your next holiday destination.