Zhangjiajie’s Hallelujah Mountains

Located in Hunan province, the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is one of the most popular natural sights in China. The site of the so-called ‘Hallelujah Mountains’, the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is home to a protected area of quartz sandstone columns, the inspiration for the land of Pandora in the blockbuster movie Avatar! In fact, these distinct geological formations are found nowhere else on the planet!

Established in 1982 and covering an area of 48 square kilometres, this protected area is home to 3000 quartzite sandstone pillars and gravity-defying peaks. Canyons, lakes, caves and tropical forests are other features of this unmissable natural tourist attraction. The best time to visit Zhangjiajie is between April and November when the weather is warm and dry. On the other hand, if you visit during the fall you’ll be treated to an array of colourful foliage, making this already captivating sight even more appealing!

Li River

With its iconic karst scenery, the Li River is one of the most beautiful natural tourist attractions in China. Home to some of the best-preserved karst peaks on the earth, the Li River is an area of outstanding natural beauty located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It should be noted that the main gateways to this beautiful area are the cities of Guilin and Yangshuo. River cruises and watching the ancient traditions of cormorant fishing are popular tourist activities. Furthermore, these unique rock formations are home to many ancient caves and grottoes. Additionally, the hills and rivers of this region are an incredible natural spectacle and showcase the immense beauty and craftsmanship of nature.

Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve

Located in Sichuan province, Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve showcases the diversity and beauty of China’s landscapes. Covering an area of 720 square kilometres, Jiuzhaigou literally translates to ‘Nine Settlement Valley’, referring to the Tibetan settlements along its borders. Famed for its glistening waterways, tree-covered mountains and magical waterfalls, Jiuzhaigou is also a designated Biosphere Reserve. Sat at an elevation of almost 3000-metres, this remote area is home to rare wildlife and immaculate mountain landscapes. Furthermore, some of the most famous attractions include the ‘Five Colour Pond’ and the 270-metre wide Nuorilang Waterfall. Wearing almost every colour in nature, the Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve is an untouched picture of wilderness in China.

Three Gorges of the Yangtze River

A truly inspiring natural attraction in China, the ‘Three Gorges Scenic Area’ is a must-see. A mountainous stretch along the Yangtze River, Qutang, Wu and Xiling are the names of the three famous gorges. Undoubtedly, an important symbol of Chinese culture, the Three Gorges are best enjoyed on a scenic river cruise along the Yangtze. Beginning in Chongqing in the west and ending in Hubei in the east, the 193 kilometre stretch of river gorges is one of the most popular sights in China.

Giant Pandas

The most famous animal in China, the giant pandas are the most adorable natural attraction in China. Visitors flock to the city of Chengdu to visit the Chengdu Panda Base, a protected area for the conservation and breeding of the rare giant panda. Founded in 1987, Chengdu Panda Base is one of the most popular natural tourist attractions in China. Here, you can watch pandas at all stages in life exploring the bamboo forests. The onsite educational centre also gives visitors to chance to learn more about these rare creatures. Furthermore, with a population of around 83 pandas, Chengdu Panda Base is a must-visit for animal lovers.