18 Fun Things You Can Only Do in China - Unique Adventures for Travelers

Nestled in the heart of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is more than just a gateway to spicy hotpot and laid-back teahouse vibes—it’s the undisputed panda capital of China. This vibrant city, with its blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient temples, has earned global fame as the home of the giant panda, a creature so adorably iconic it could probably trademark its charm and derpy whimsy.

While most visitors flock to Chengdu to snap selfies with these bamboo-munching superstars, there’s a far more immersive way to connect with them: volunteering at the Dujiangyan Panda Base. This isn’t just another zoo visit—it’s one of the most unique things to do in China, offering a hands-on dive into panda conservation that’s equal parts heartwarming and humbling.

The Dujiangyan Panda Base, an hour from Chengdu, is part of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Spanning lush, green hills, this sanctuary is dedicated to the preservation of China’s beloved giant pandas, whose numbers once teetered on the brink of extinction. Unlike typical tourist stops, the base isn’t just about showcasing pandas—it’s a working research and breeding facility where scientists and keepers strive to ensure the species’ survival.

With only about 1,800 pandas left in the wild and captivity combined, every effort here counts. The base houses dozens of pandas, from playful cubs to lounging adults, all thriving in environments designed to mimic their natural bamboo forests. Unlike standard tours, volunteering allows you to dive deeper into this mission.

Instead of being just another face in the crowd, you become part of the pandas’ daily world—a rare chance to contribute to their care while getting closer than you ever thought possible..

From 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, you’ll chop bamboo (pandas munch 40kg daily!), clean enclosures, and help feed these furry VIPs, all under expert guidance. You might even assist with behavioral observations, learning which cub’s the resident rascal. It’s hard work but pure joy, offering a closer panda connection than any zoo visit.

The experience is capped with educational sessions where staff share stories of the pandas’ personalities—like which cub is the resident troublemaker or which adult has mastered the art of napping in trees. You’ll also learn about the base’s breeding programs, which have boosted panda populations by 40% since the 1990s, and the challenges of reintroducing pandas to the wild. By the end of the day, you’re not just a tourist—you’re a contributor to a global conservation effort, with a camera roll full of panda pics and a heart full of fuzzy feelings.

Book through the base’s official site or trip.com, and visit in spring for active pandas. Programs are offered year-round, but spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and active pandas. Dress in comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Beijing, China’s pulsating capital, is a city where history hums beneath modern buzz, from imperial palaces to bustling hutongs. But its crown jewel is the Great Wall, a world-famous marvel that’s been guarding the nation for centuries. While most tourists settle for day trips to snap photos at crowded sections like Badaling, camping on the Great Wall near Beijing offers one of the most fun things you can do in China.

Picture sleeping under a starlit sky atop ancient stones, with watchtowers as your nightlight—this is history brought to life in a way no day hike can match.

The best spot for this adventure is the Jinshanling section, about two hours from Beijing. Unlike tourist-heavy Badaling, Jinshanling is a wilder, less-restored stretch, with crumbling watchtowers and sweeping views of rolling hills.

This UNESCO-listed segment, built during the Ming Dynasty, spans 10 kilometers and offers a raw, authentic feel—perfect for campers seeking solitude. Its remote location and rugged beauty make it a haven for once-in-a-lifetime experiences, far from the selfie-stick crowds.

Guided camping tours run from afternoon to sunrise, typically from April to October, when the weather is mild. You’ll hike 3–5 kilometers along Jinshanling’s steep paths, passing ancient battlements, before setting up camp on a watchtower platform.

As dusk falls, savor a picnic dinner under the stars, swapping stories with fellow adventurers as the wall’s silhouette stretches into the night. Sunrise reveals misty peaks and endless stone ribbons, a view that feels like stealing a secret from history. Tents, sleeping bags, and meals are provided, but bring sturdy shoes and a warm layer for chilly nights.

Book through reputable operators for safety and permits, as wild camping is restricted.

Chongqing, a sprawling megacity in southwest China, feels like it was ripped from a sci-fi novel. With its dizzying skyscrapers, mist-shrouded hills, and chaotic energy, it’s a place where the future and present collide.

Forget standard city tours—exploring Chongqing’s cyberpunk aesthetics is one of the most exhilarating travel experiences in China, plunging you into a neon-lit world where monorails zip through buildings and streets pulse with life in 8D.

The heart of Chongqing’s futuristic vibe lies in Hongyadong, a riverside complex in Yuzhong District. This 11-story maze of stilted buildings, glowing with lanterns and neon signs, blends traditional Sichuan architecture with Blade Runner-esque flair.

By night, it’s a kaleidoscope of lights reflecting off the Jialing River, with bustling shops and food stalls serving spicy noodles. Hongyadong’s surreal charm, amplified by its cliffside perch, makes it a must for anyone chasing unique adventures in China.

For the full cyberpunk experience, hop on the Line 2 monorail at Liziba Station, where trains slice through a 19-story residential building—a sight that’s as mind-bending as it sounds. The ride offers panoramic views of Chongqing’s vertical sprawl, with holographic billboards and misty valleys below. Explore at night for maximum effect, when the city’s neon glow transforms it into a living sci-fi set.

A trip to Chongqing is a plunge into a futuristic urban jungle, making it one of the most thrilling activities you can only do in China.

Tucked in Gansu’s arid northwest, Dunhuang is a desert oasis where history whispers through shifting sands. Once a thriving hub on the ancient Silk Road, this remote town connected China to Central Asia, trading silk, spices, and stories.

While its Buddhist caves are an absolute must, riding a camel through Dunhuang’s Singing Sand Dunes is an exclusive Chinese adventure that transports you to a bygone era of caravans and desert mystique.

The Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes), located just 6 kilometers from Dunhuang, is a surreal expanse of golden dunes that hum when the wind blows—a natural phenomenon caused by the shifting sands. At their heart lies Crescent Lake, a crescent-shaped oasis that’s defied desert encroachment for centuries.

This UNESCO Geopark, framed by 1,700-meter dunes, sets the stage for a camel trek that feels like stepping into a Silk Road legend, perfect for travelers seeking one-of-a-kind experiences.

Guided camel treks last 1–2 hours, winding through the dunes to Crescent Lake. You’ll sway atop a Bactrian camel, led by local guides who share tales of Silk Road merchants. The journey ends at the lake’s edge, where you can climb dunes for sunset views that paint the sand gold.

Book via Trip.com, and visit in May or September for mild temperatures. Wear a scarf to protect against dust and sturdy shoes for dune climbing. This is a time-traveling adventure you will never forget!

Tucked in Hunan’s northwest, Zhangjiajie feels like a portal to another planet. Its towering sandstone pillars, cloaked in mist and tangled with greenery, inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar.

While theme parks mimic fantasy worlds, hiking Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is one of the most exhilarating travel experiences in China, plunging you into a real-life sci-fi epic that no Hollywood set can rival.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans 4,800 hectares and features over 3,000 quartzite peaks, some of which soar 800 meters high. Formed over millions of years, these jagged spires are draped in subtropical forests, home to rare monkeys and birds. Unlike typical mountain ranges, Zhangjiajie’s alien-like pillars create a surreal maze of trails, waterfalls, and caves, making it a bucket-list destination for nature lovers seeking unique travel gems.

Explore via scenic trails (like the 7km Golden Whip Stream) or ride the Bailong Elevator, a 326-meter glass lift carved into a cliff, for heart-stopping views. The Tianzi Mountain cable car offers panoramic sweeps of misty peaks.

or thrills, cross the 430-meter Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the world’s longest, with a bungee jump option. Trails range from easy to strenuous, so wear sturdy shoes.

Book tickets via Trip.com, and visit in autumn (September–November) for vivid colors and fewer crowds. With every step, Zhangjiajie’s otherworldly beauty redefines adventure, etching its magic into your travel story.

In Fujian’s rugged southwest, the Nanjing Tulou clusters transport you to a world straight out of Mulan—think rolling hills, ancient villages, and a timeless rural charm. These UNESCO-listed earthen fortresses, built by the Hakka people, are more than just homes; they’re living relics of communal life.

Visiting the Tulou is one of the most unique things you can do in China, offering a glimpse into a culture that feels like a forgotten chapter of history.

The Nanjing Tulou, scattered across Fujian’s countryside, are circular or square mud-brick structures, some dating back to the 13th century. Built for defense, each Tulou houses dozens of families, with thick walls guarding vibrant courtyards.

Yunshuiyao Village, a prime Tulou hub, boasts over 50 such structures amid rice paddies and tea fields. Their fortress-like design and rustic setting evoke Mulan’s countryside, making them a cultural treasure unlike any other in China.

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Guided tours or homestays in Yunshuiyao allow you to explore the interiors of Tulou, where families still live, cook, and share their traditions. Wander through communal halls, savor Hakka tea, or join a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes.

Trails between Tulou offer scenic hikes with river views. Book tours or stay in a Tulou guesthouse. Visit in spring (March–May) for lush landscapes. This immersive journey into Hakka life weaves history and heart, leaving you enchanted by China’s rural soul.

Nestled in Guangxi’s karst country, Yangshuo is a serene escape where jagged peaks pierce the sky and rivers carve through emerald fields. The Li River, its lifeblood, weaves a scene so picturesque it graces Chinese currency.

While hiking or biking draws crowds, bamboo rafting on the Li River is one of the most serene travel experiences in China, offering a front-row seat to nature’s masterpiece from a traditional, handcrafted vessel.

The Lijiang River, stretching 83 kilometers from Guilin to Yangshuo, flows through a surreal landscape of limestone karsts, rice paddies, and water buffalo living grounds. This UNESCO-recognized region, shaped over millions of years, feels like a Chinese ink painting come to life.

Unlike modern boat tours, bamboo rafting uses eco-friendly rafts—simple platforms of lashed bamboo poles—guided by local rafters, preserving a centuries-old tradition that’s a hallmark of unique travel gems in China.

Your 1–2-hour rafting trip starts in Yangshuo’s quieter stretches, like the Xingping to Nine Horses section. A local guide poles your raft, dodging gentle rapids while you soak in views of peaks like Yellow Cloth Shoal.

You might spot cormorant fishermen or farmers tending fields, their lives woven into the river’s rhythm.

Visit in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for mild weather and lush scenery. Bring a hat and sunscreen, as rafts offer little shade. Gliding through this tranquil, timeless landscape feels like stealing a moment from a dream, a journey that lingers long after you step ashore.

Harbin, Heilongjiang’s frosty capital, transforms winter into a spectacle of shimmering ice and snow. Known for its Russian-influenced architecture and bone-chilling winters, this northern city hosts the world’s largest ice festival.

Strolling through Harbin’s Ice and Snow World is one of the most magical activities you can only do in China, turning a cold night into a glowing, fairy-tale adventure amid colossal frozen sculptures.

Each January to February, Harbin’s Ice and Snow World sprawls across 800,000 square meters on the Songhua River. Artisans carve massive ice blocks—harvested from the river—into intricate castles, pagodas, and dragons, illuminated by vibrant LED lights.

Some structures tower 50 meters, rivaling real buildings. This annual festival, drawing millions, showcases China’s mastery of ice art, making it a must for travelers seeking exclusive Chinese adventures.

Wander through glowing tunnels, slide down ice chutes, or sip hot tea at a frozen café. Interactive exhibits, like ice mazes or snow sculptures, add playful fun.

Dress in layers—temperatures can dip to -30°C—and wear grippy boots for icy paths. Visit in January for peak displays. As you stroll this radiant, frozen realm, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a winter myth, a memory that sparkles as brightly as Harbin’s ice.

Shanghai, China’s pulsating metropolis, is a dazzling blend of colonial charm and futuristic ambition, where skyscrapers cast shadows over historic riverfronts. While rooftop bars abound, The Stage, a new open-air observation deck located atop Sinar Mas Plaza (also known as White Magnolia Plaza) in the North Bund, offers one of the most exhilarating travel experiences in China.

At 320 meters, this 360-degree platform unveils Shanghai’s skyline in all its glory, from the Bund’s historical facades to Lujiazui’s towering icons, making it a must-visit for skyline chasers.

Opened in April 2025, The Stage transforms a former helicopter pad into a 1,050-foot vantage point, one of Shanghai’s few outdoor observation decks. Unlike glassed-in decks like Shanghai Tower’s, The Stage’s open-air design lets you feel the city’s pulse, with unobstructed views of the Huangpu River and landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower.

Access The Stage via LG1 at Sinar Mas Plaza (501 Dongdaming Road, Hongkou). Tickets are available via Trip.com or the official “TheStage” mini-program.

Visit at sunset for golden river views or night for neon brilliance, ideally in spring or autumn for mild weather. With influencers and photographers flocking here, book early for quieter sessions. Standing atop this urban stage, you’ll see Shanghai’s past and future collide in a breathtaking panorama.

In Sichuan’s northern mountains, Jiuzhaigou National Park is a kaleidoscope of turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and snow-dusted peaks that feels conjured from a fairy tale.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven of biodiversity, home to pandas and rare orchids. Hiking Jiuzhaigou’s trails is one of the most captivating activities you can only do in China, offering a journey through pristine landscapes that redefine natural beauty.

Jiuzhaigou, meaning “Nine Villages Valley,” spans 72,000 hectares, named for its Tibetan settlements. Its 108 lakes, formed by glacial deposits, shimmer in unreal shades of blue and green, thanks to mineral-rich waters.

Highlights include Five-Flower Lake, with its submerged logs creating a crystal mosaic, and Nuorilang Waterfall, a 250-meter-wide cascade.

This protected ecosystem, recovering from a 2017 earthquake, is a gem for nature lovers seeking unique travel gems in China.

Guided day hikes explore trails like the 12km Shuzheng Valley path, weaving past lakes, waterfalls, and Tibetan prayer wheels. Boardwalks ensure easy access, but sturdy shoes are essential for navigating uneven sections. Electric buses supplement longer routes, ideal for less strenuous visits.

Book park entry via Trip.com, and visit in fall for vibrant autumn hues. As you hike, Jiuzhaigou’s serene beauty unfolds like a painter’s dream, inviting you to lose yourself in its tranquil splendor.

Xi’an, Shaanxi’s ancient heart, was once the capital of the Tang Dynasty, a golden era renowned for its silk, poetry, and power. Its streets hum with history, but the Terracotta Warriors steal the show—a life-sized army frozen in time.

Visiting Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum is one of the most captivating travel experiences in China, immersing you in a 2,200-year-old saga of emperors and artistry that feels like stepping into a historical epic.

Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Warriors guard the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China’s first unifier. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located 40 km from Xi’an, features over 8,000 clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, each uniquely sculpted with distinct faces and armor. Spread across three pits, the site reveals the grandeur of the Tang era, with ongoing excavations uncovering new treasures.

Unlike typical museum visits, this is a portal to an ancient world, perfect for history buffs seeking unique travel gems in China.

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Guided tours provide access to the pits and interactive workshops, where you can sculpt a miniature terracotta warrior and learn techniques from local artisans. Explore Pit 1’s vast ranks or Pit 3’s command center, marveling at details like braided hairstyles.

As you stand among these silent sentinels, Xi’an’s ancient pulse will ignite your sense of wonder.

In Jiangxi’s western hills, Wugong Mountain is a hidden gem where misty peaks and rolling meadows rival alpine Europe. Far from China’s crowded tourist trails, this 1,918-meter massif offers a serene escape. Hiking Wugong’s trails is one of the most exhilarating activities you can only do in China, blending breathtaking vistas with a touch of spiritual calm that feels like a secret shared by the mountains.

Wugong Mountain, spanning 100 square kilometers, is renowned for its high-altitude grasslands, often referred to as China’s “Green Carpet.” Golden meadows stretch across peaks, dotted with wildflowers and ancient pines, while clouds swirl below.

Near the summit, the 1,500-year-old Fayun Temple adds a spiritual layer, drawing pilgrims and hikers. This untouched landscape, less known than Huangshan, is a haven for those chasing exclusive Chinese adventures.

Guided day hikes or overnight camping tours cover 5–10 km trails, such as the Golden Summit route, offering panoramic views of rolling ridges. Tent camping lets you catch sunrise over a sea of clouds.

Trails range from moderate to challenging, so wear sturdy boots and bring a raincoat in case of sudden showers. Visit in autumn (September–November) for vibrant colors and clear skies. As you crest Wugong’s peaks, the world falls away, leaving only the quiet majesty of China’s wild heart.

Tucked in Hubei’s rugged southwest, Enshi Grand Canyon is a dramatic expanse of karst cliffs and emerald rivers that rivals the Grand Canyon’s scale. Far from China’s tourist-packed trails, this hidden gem offers a heart-pounding adventure.

Climbing the sky ladder in Enshi Grand Canyon is one of the most thrilling travel experiences in China, blending vertigo-inducing heights with jaw-dropping views that test your courage and reward your soul.

Enshi Grand Canyon, spanning 108 kilometers, features 2,000-meter peaks and the Qing River’s serpentine flow. The sky ladder, a near-vertical metal rung climb on a cliff face, ascends to Yunlong Waterfall, a 70-meter cascade. Unlike typical hikes, this ladder—secured with safety cables—is a daring ascent only found here, drawing adrenaline junkies seeking unique travel gems.

The canyon’s untouched beauty and Tujia minority culture add layers of allure.

Guided sky ladder tours last 2–3 hours, including safety briefings and harnesses. You’ll climb 200–300 meters, gripping rungs while the canyon sprawls below. At the top, marvel at the waterfall’s mist and distant peaks. Moderate fitness is required; wear grippy shoes and follow guides’ instructions. As you conquer the ladder, Enshi’s wild majesty fuels a rush that echoes long after your descent.

Hong Kong’s Central district pulses with energy, where skyscrapers tower over narrow alleys and colonial relics. Navigating its steep hills can tire even the fittest traveler, but the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator offers a quirky solution.

As the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system, this 800-meter marvel is one of the most fun things to do in China, weaving through the city’s heart for a free, cinematic ride.

Opened in 1993, the escalator spans 135 meters in elevation from Queen’s Road Central to Conduit Road, with 16 reversible escalators and three travelators. Designed to ease commuter congestion, it carries 78,000 people daily, shifting downhill (6–10 AM) and uphill (10:20 AM–midnight). Its covered design shields against rain, and 14 entry/exit points connect vibrant neighborhoods, making it a unique travel gem for exploring Hong Kong’s eclectic charm.

Hop on at Queen’s Road Central for a 20–25-minute ride, pausing at exits like Gage Street for Lan Fong Yuen’s iconic milk tea or Lyndhurst Terrace for Graham Street Market’s bustling stalls.

The escalator, featured in Wong Kar-wai’s Chungking Express, frames dai pai dong eateries and heritage sites like Central Market. No tickets are needed—just board and soak in the city’s rhythm. Visit after 10 AM for uphill travel. Gliding through Hong Kong’s urban tapestry, you’ll feel the city’s pulse in every moving step.

In Jiangxi’s lush Shangrao, Wangxian Valley is a dreamlike escape where misty cliffs and ancient-style villages evoke a fantasy novel. This scenic area, blending natural splendor with crafted charm, feels like a set for a wuxia drama.

Visiting Wangxian Valley is one of the most enchanting travel experiences in China, offering a surreal blend of nature and culture that captivates the imagination.

Wangxian Valley, nestled in Wuyuan County, spans rolling hills and rivers framed by jagged peaks. Its recreated Huizhou-style village—wooden houses with upturned eaves—mimics ancient Jiangxi, while rope bridges and waterfalls add a fairy-tale vibe.

Opened in 2019, it’s a cultural park where history meets cinematic fantasy, drawing visitors seeking exclusive Chinese adventures amid one of China’s most picturesque regions.

Explore via guided tours or self-guided walks, strolling cobblestone paths past teahouses and artisan shops. Try Huizhou embroidery workshops or sip local green tea while gazing at mist-shrouded cliffs.

Night tours, with lantern-lit villages, amplify the magic. Visit in the spring for blooming rapeseed fields or in the autumn for golden hues.

As you wander Wangxian’s ethereal paths, you’ll slip into a storybook realm where China’s past feels alive and enchanted.

Hangzhou, Zhejiang’s serene capital, is famed for its misty West Lake and ancient temples, but Feilai Feng (Flying Peak) at Lingyin Temple steals the spotlight. This limestone hill, named for its legend of “flying” from India via Buddhist monks, boasts over 300 stone carvings from the 10th–14th centuries.

Hiking Feilai Feng’s trails is one of the most soulful travel experiences in China, blending spiritual history with natural beauty for a meditative adventure.

Feilai Feng, part of the Lingyin Temple complex, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Buddhist art reflects Indian influence brought via the Silk Road. Its 470+ carvings, including chubby Maitreya Buddhas and intricate bodhisattvas, are etched into caves and cliffs.

Unlike typical temple visits, the hill’s winding paths offer a serene hike through bamboo groves and ancient grottos, making it a unique travel gem for those seeking China’s spiritual heritage.

A 1–2-hour hike winds through Feilai Feng’s trails, past carvings like the Laughing Buddha and hidden caves like Yuru Cave. Stone steps and shaded paths make it accessible, but wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain. Visit in the spring for blooming scenery or in the autumn for crisp air.

Yunnan’s Tiger Leaping Gorge is a jaw-dropping canyon where the Jinsha River roars between Jade Dragon and Haba Snow Mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the world’s deepest gorges, offers a thrilling challenge: the sky ladders of the Middle Gorge.

Trekking these near-vertical climbs is one of the most exhilarating experiences in China, blending raw adventure with breathtaking vistas that feel like a myth come alive.

Stretching 16 kilometers with a 3,790-meter drop from peak to river, Tiger Leaping Gorge is named for a tiger’s legendary leap across its narrowest point (25 meters). The Middle Gorge’s sky ladders—168-step metal rungs bolted to cliffs—offer an adrenaline-pumping ascent to viewpoints like Tiger Leaping Rock.

Unlike standard trails, this daring climb, maintained by Naxi locals, is a hallmark of exclusive Chinese adventures, drawing thrill-seekers to Yunnan’s wild heart.

Guided sky ladder treks start from Tina’s Guesthouse, descending Teacher Zhang’s Trail to the river before tackling the ladders. Safety cables provide security, but the steep, slippery rungs demand your full attention—avoid rainy days. Moderate fitness is needed; gloves and grippy shoes are essential.

Kashgar, Xinjiang’s Silk Road hub, pulses with history where Central Asian and Chinese cultures collide. Its Old City, a maze of mud-brick alleys, hosts a vibrant night market that’s a sensory overload of spices, crafts, and Uighur hospitality.

Shopping here is one of the most unique things to do in China, offering a glimpse into a 2,000-year-old trading post that feels like stepping into a bustling caravan stop.

Kashgar’s night market, centered around Wusitangboyi Road, transforms at dusk into a kaleidoscope of stalls selling kebabs, naan, and handcrafted treasures like embroidered caps and copper teapots. This Uighur-dominated market, rooted in Silk Road traditions, offers an authentic cultural dive.

Unlike modern malls, its chaotic charm and local flavors make it a standout for travelers seeking one-of-a-kind activities in China’s far west.

Wander the streets of Kashgar ancient town and join the market’s evening buzz from 7 PM, when vendors light up stalls. Barter for silk scarves or sample laghman noodles and samsa pastries. Guided tours offer cultural insights, but solo exploration is easy. As you weave through Kashgar’s glowing stalls, the Silk Road’s ancient heartbeat pulls you into its vibrant embrace.

From the serene drift of Yangshuo’s bamboo rafts to the heart-pounding climb of Enshi’s sky ladders, these 18 exclusive Chinese adventures showcase a nation where ancient legacies and bold innovations collide. Each experience offers a unique lens into China’s boundless diversity.

No other destination blends such raw natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and futuristic flair into moments that stay with you forever.

Ready to make these memories your own?

Start planning your journey today, pack for adventure, and let China’s wonders captivate your heart. Discover the Middle Kingdom’s magic now!