China route: Tiger Leaping Gorge to Macau, 8 stops
Explore 14 iconic destinations across China spanning 9,858 km, from the classical gardens of Suzhou and the alpine lakes of Jiuzhaigou to the Great Wall near Beijing and the modern skyline of Shanghai. This route connects ancient cultural landmarks with natural wonders throughout multiple Chinese regions.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Tiger Leaping Gorge
- End
- Macau
- Stops
- 8
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Tiger Leaping Gorge — One of Earth's deepest and most scenic river canyons carved by the Jinsha River, offering dramatic hiking trails past roaring rapids and rugged cliffs.
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park — Northwestern Hunan park famous for thousands of towering sandstone pillars shrouded in mist, subtropical rainforest, and deep gorges with waterfalls.
- Jiuzhaigou Valley — UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring cascading turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and pristine forests in a remote mountain valley.
- Great Wall of China — Ancient defensive fortification spanning thousands of kilometers across northern China, showcasing impressive stone and brick architecture.
- Hong Kong — Vibrant cosmopolitan harbor city blending Eastern and Western cultures, renowned for its dramatic skyline and bustling markets.
- Suzhou — Ancient water town famous for silk production, classical gardens, and picturesque canals crossed by traditional bridges throughout the old town.
- Dali — Historic lakeside town in Yunnan with charming cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and the iconic Three Pagodas set against mountain backdrops.
- Macau — Former Portuguese colony blending Chinese temples, colonial architecture, and modern casinos in a unique fusion of East and West cultural influences.
Useful for your trip
- Avoid
- First-time visitors to China typically stick to larger cities. More experienced travelers venture to other regions where language barriers exist but independent travel is doable.
- Tip
- Suzhou is the most famous water town in China and the silk capital. Visit the Lingering Gardens, considered a masterpiece garden with four distinct sections.
- Tip
- Dali's old town features charming cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and colorful markets. The iconic three pagodas are a symbol of the city.
- Transport
- Yangshuo is a good base to take a day trip to Guilin. Many travelers rent bicycles for the return trip on the Lee River route, which is relatively flat.
- Tip
- Lhasa is at 11,500 feet elevation and is one of the highest elevated cities in the world. Visit the Potala Palace, former home of the Dalai Lama, constructed over 360 years ago.
- Tip
- Xi'an features the Terra Cotta Army, protectors of the tomb of China's first emperor. The city also has 14th century city walls over 8 meters long that you may need to go under, over, or around.
- Tip
- The Bund in Shanghai is the most popular place for a stroll along the colonial riverfront. Architecturally significant buildings are still visible despite changes to the area.
- Tip
- The Great Wall of China measures approximately 5,500 meters in length. Badaling is the most popular section as it is closest to Beijing and easiest to climb.
- Tip
- Hong Kong's must-see attractions include Victoria Harbor, which is spectacular at night, and the Peak, Hong Kong's highest point offering awe-inspiring city views.
- Tip
- Beijing's history dates back over 3,000 years. Key attractions include Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, National Museum of China, and the old and new summer palaces.
Video on this route
14 Best Places to Visit in China - Travel Video