Places to visit in Northern China

Beijing

Capital of China, where the ancient culture and modern civilization are well integrated

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Tianjin

An important transport and trading centre since the Mongol dynasty 

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Datong

One of the nine ancient capitals, history began as early as 2400 years ago

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Shenyang

Largest city formerly Manchuria, one of China’s greatest industrial centers.

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Harbin

Renowned as the Ice City for the beautiful snow sceneries with Russian-style buildings

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Inner Mongolia

An inland plateau elevation of about 3,300 ft, fringed by mountains and valleys

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Qingdao

Known for its natural beauty, Tsingtao beer, and German-style architecture

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Dalian

A seaside city  surrounded by the Yellow Sea to the west and Bohai Sea to the east.

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Northern China

Northern China is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, from the ancient Great Wall to the vast grasslands of Inner Mongolia. Below is a detailed description of some of the key cities and regions, highlighting their unique attractions, population, best time to visit, and tourist activities.

1. Beijing

  • Population: Approximately 21 million
  • Famous for: As China’s capital, Beijing is famous for its rich historical and cultural landmarks, including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Great Wall.
  • Best time to visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal, with mild weather and clear skies.
  • Tourist activities:
    • The Forbidden City: Explore the former imperial palace, one of the most well-preserved ancient wooden structures in the world.
    • The Great Wall (Badaling section): A UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
    • Summer Palace: A beautiful imperial garden with lakes and pavilions.
    • Hutong tours: Wander the narrow traditional alleyways to experience old Beijing.
    • Temple of Heaven: A vast park with historic temples, where emperors used to pray for good harvests.
  • Tourist attractions: The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, National Museum of China, Ming Tombs, and the Olympic Park (including the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube).

2. Tianjin

  • Population: Approximately 13 million
  • Famous for: A major port city known for its European-style architecture and historical significance as a treaty port.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and autumn (April-May, September-October) for pleasant temperatures.
  • Tourist activities:
    • Five Great Avenues (Wudadao): A district showcasing over 230 Western-style buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
    • Tianjin Eye: A giant Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the city.
    • Ancient Culture Street: A pedestrian street with traditional architecture, shops, and temples.
    • Haihe River Cruise: A relaxing boat ride along the scenic river that cuts through the city.
  • Tourist attractions: Five Great Avenues, Tianjin Eye, Ancient Culture Street, Porcelain House, and Tianjin Water Park.

3. Datong (Shanxi Province)

  • Population: Approximately 3 million
  • Famous for: Its ancient Buddhist sites and historical significance as a capital during the Northern Wei dynasty.
  • Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn (April-October) when the weather is most comfortable.
  • Tourist activities:
    • Yungang Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage site with over 51,000 ancient Buddhist statues and carvings.
    • Hanging Temple: A temple built into a cliffside, blending Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.
    • Nine Dragon Screen: The largest of its kind in China, this intricately designed screen dates back to the Ming dynasty.
    • Datong City Wall: A well-preserved historical wall that offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.
  • Tourist attractions: Yungang Grottoes, Hanging Temple, Nine Dragon Screen, Datong City Wall, Huayan Monastery.

4. Shenyang (Liaoning Province)

  • Population: Approximately 9 million
  • Famous for: Known as the birthplace of the Qing dynasty and for its industrial significance.
  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is pleasant and the fall foliage is beautiful.
  • Tourist activities:
    • Mukden Palace (Shenyang Imperial Palace): The palace where Qing emperors lived before moving to Beijing’s Forbidden City.
    • Zhao Mausoleum (Beiling Park): The tomb of the founder of the Qing dynasty, set in a beautiful park.
    • Shenyang Expo Garden: A vast garden showcasing various flora, often visited during flower festivals.
    • Dongling Park: A scenic area that includes the tomb of the Qing dynasty’s second emperor.
  • Tourist attractions: Mukden Palace, Zhao Mausoleum, Shenyang Expo Garden, Dongling Park.

5. Harbin (Heilongjiang Province)

  • Population: Approximately 10 million
  • Famous for: Known as the “Ice City,” Harbin is famous for its annual Ice and Snow Festival and Russian-influenced architecture.
  • Best time to visit: Winter (December-February) to experience the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, or summer (June-August) for a pleasant escape from the heat.
  • Tourist activities:
    • Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival: Marvel at large, intricate ice sculptures and buildings illuminated by colorful lights.
    • Saint Sophia Cathedral: A Russian Orthodox church showcasing Harbin’s unique architectural history.
    • Sun Island Park: A scenic spot known for its beautiful landscapes and as a key venue during the Ice Festival.
    • Siberian Tiger Park: See these majestic animals in a large safari park setting.
  • Tourist attractions: Ice and Snow Festival, Saint Sophia Cathedral, Sun Island Park, Central Street, Siberian Tiger Park.

6. Inner Mongolia

  • Population: Approximately 24 million
  • Famous for: Known for its vast grasslands, nomadic culture, and unique festivals.
  • Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) when the grasslands are green, and festivals take place.
  • Tourist activities:
    • Grasslands: Experience the Mongolian way of life, staying in yurts and attending cultural performances.
    • Genghis Khan Mausoleum: A tribute to the legendary Mongol leader, offering insight into Mongolian history and culture.
    • Xilamuren Grassland: A popular destination for tourists to experience horseback riding and Mongolian wrestling.
    • Erdos Desert: Explore the unique landscape of deserts in the region, including camel rides and sand surfing.
  • Tourist attractions: Xilamuren Grassland, Genghis Khan Mausoleum, Ordos Desert, Hulunbuir Grassland.

7. Qingdao (Shandong Province)

  • Population: Approximately 10 million
  • Famous for: Known for its Tsingtao beer, beautiful beaches, and German colonial architecture.
  • Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) is ideal for beach activities and the annual Qingdao International Beer Festival.
  • Tourist activities:
    • Zhanqiao Pier: A scenic pier offering stunning views of the sea and skyline.
    • Laoshan Mountain: A sacred Taoist mountain with scenic hiking trails and ancient temples.
    • Qingdao Beer Museum: Learn about the history of Tsingtao beer, with tastings included.
    • Golden Beach: A popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Tourist attractions: Qingdao Beer Museum, Laoshan Mountain, Zhanqiao Pier, May Fourth Square, Golden Beach.

8. Dalian (Liaoning Province)

  • Population: Approximately 7 million
  • Famous for: Known for its beaches, parks, and as a financial hub in northeastern China.
  • Best time to visit: Summer (June-August) for beach activities and outdoor festivals.
  • Tourist activities:
    • Tiger Beach Ocean Park: A large ocean park with an aquarium, marine performances, and scenic beaches.
    • Dalian Discovery Kingdom: A popular theme park with roller coasters and entertainment.
    • Xinghai Square: The largest city square in Asia, great for evening strolls.
    • Binhai Road: A scenic coastal road perfect for biking and walking.
  • Tourist attractions: Tiger Beach Ocean Park, Xinghai Square, Binhai Road, Dalian Forest Zoo.

Northern China is a diverse region offering a blend of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. From the Great Wall in Beijing to the ice sculptures in Harbin, tourists have endless opportunities for exploration. The best time to visit most areas is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, though winter is the perfect time to experience Harbin’s winter festivities.