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China National Parks Map
1. Beijing Great Wall National Park - Admiring the Great Wall's Grandeur
The Great Wall, a UNESCO world heritage site and a landmark of China, is enough to earns Beijing Great Wall National Park (北京长城国家公园) its top spot among China best national parks.
It is China's first national Great Wall theme park, stretching 70-120 km from Beijing's center. The highlights are the Badaling, Mutianyu, Jinshanling, Simatai, and Jiankou sections - choose based on your fitness level:
| Great Wall | Difficulty | Who is this for |
|---|---|---|
| Badaling | ★★ | First-timer favorite, but expect crowds. |
| Mutianyu | ★★★ | (Highly recommended) Less crowded, making it suitable for family outings. |
| Simatai | ★★★★ | For seasoned hikers who love the night view. |
| Jinshanling | ★★★★ | For photographer and hikers. |
| Jiankou | ★★★★★ | Unrestored Great Wall, expert climbers only. |
We recommend Mutianyu Great Wall for a fantastic family trip.
On the way to climbing the Great Wall, you will pass through weathered towers, winding ridges, and seasonal scenes. You can also look out to enjoy spring blossoms, summer forests, autumn leaves, and winter snow.
Duration: 1 day or more
Getting There: 1-2 hour drive from downtown Beijing.
Best Time to Visit:
- Mid-to-late October (red leaves season)
- Early April (mountain peach and apricot blossoms)
2. Giant Panda National Park - Observing Wild Pandas
Giant Panda National Park (大熊猫国家公园), a leading destination on China national parks list, is a dream for panda fan.
This UNESCO world heritage site, established by China to protect giant pandas and their habitat, spans 67 nature reserves across Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces, covering approximately 27,000 square kilometers. It's home to over 1,600 wild pandas.
We recommend the Wolong National Nature Reserve in Sichuan, where you can trek through panda habitats and even volunteer to observe panda keepers at work. Witness pandas' daily lives - climbing trees, tumbling, eating, and playing.
Duration: 1 day
Getting There: 2.5 hours drive from Chengdu.
Best Time to Visit: All year round.
3. Qomolangma National Park - Close to Mt. Everest
The timeless allure of "Because it's there" draws countless climbers to Mount Everest, the world's highest peak (8,848.86mm), and also beckons travelers and photographers to the park that surrounds it.
Qomolangma National Park (珠峰国家公园), a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, undoubtedly ranks among the top three when discussing China national parks.
As the world's highest national park, located in Shigatse, Tibet, China, It includes Everest, along with other majestic peaks exceeding 8,000 meters, such as Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma.
We recommend a visit to the Gawula Pass within the park for breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, followed by a closer experience at Rongbuk Monastery, the world's highest temple, where you can admire Buddhist stupas and spend a memorable night at Everest Base Camp.
Altitude: 5,200m
Duration: 2 days
Getting There: 6.5 hours drive from Shigatse, Tibet.
Best Time to Visit: late April to early June & September to October.
Tibet Travel Permit is required for travel to Tibet. Asia Odyssey Travel is qualified to apply for this permit successfully and without charge. Contact us!
4. Tianmen Mountain National Park - Witness the World's Highest Natural Mountain Arch
If you're captivated by extraordinary mountains, Tianmenshan is your destination. This park is a haven for hikers and enthusiasts of geological wonders.
Tianmen Mountain National Park (天门山国家森林公园), located in Zhangjiajie, is a signature attraction renowned for its majestic peaks, deep canyons, lush forests, and breathtaking scenery. The park boasts unique highlights such as Tianmen Cave, the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, and the Glass Skywalk.
Tianmen Cave stands out as the world's highest natural cave through a mountain, measuring an impressive 131.5 meters in height, 57 meters in width, and 60 meters in depth.
Visitors can ascend the mountain via one of the world's longest cable car lines, enjoying the majestic peak forests and canyon scenery - a perfect opportunity to fully utilize your phone's photography capabilities. P.S. For those who prefer not to hike, elevators are available at the summit.
Additionally, for thrill-seekers, there's the opportunity to walk on the glass walkway suspended along the cliff. When the weather is good, sunlight streams down from the mountain's cave, creating an incredibly beautiful scene!
Duration: 1 day
Getting There: 10 mins drive from Zhangjiajie.
Best Time to Visit: spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).
5. Wulingyuan National Park - Visiting the Real Avatar Hallelujah Mountains
Are you a big fan of the movie Avatar? Then visit Wulingyuan National Park (武陵源国家公园)! This top national park in China is a great choice for Avatar fans, photography enthusiasts, and lovers of natural wonders.
Wulingyuan National Park, also called the Chinese national park avatar, is the core scenic area of Zhangjiajie and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
The park is renowned for its unique quartz sandstone peak forest landforms, serving as the inspiration for the "floating mountains" in the movie Avatar. It includes four major scenic areas: Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Suoxiyu, and Yangjiajie.
We suggest you prioritize visiting Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain.
In Yuanjiajie, you can admire natural wonders like the floating Hallelujah Mountains and the First Bridge Under Heaven. At Tianzi Mountain, you can explore the towering peaks of the West Sea Stone Forest. The park's scenery varies with each season, making it an ideal destination for hiking and photography.
Duration: 1 day
Getting There: 1 hour drive from Zhangjiajie.
Best Time to Visit: spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).
6. Jiuzhaigou National Park - Journey to a Fairyland
The heaven of nature lovers! You might have heard of the "ceiling of Chinese waterscapes." That's Jiuzhaigou National Park, one of China best national parks.
Jiuzhaigou National Park (九寨沟国家公园), located in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's most enchanting national parks.
It's renowned for its unbelievably blue lakes, rushing waterfalls, vibrant forests, and lush woodlands backed by snow-capped mountains. The park is divided into three main sections: the Zechawa, Rize, and Shuzheng valleys.
You can explore the Nuorilang Waterfalls, Five Flower Lake, Pearl Shoal, Mirror Lake, and more, enjoying the turquoise lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and trees that change color with the seasons along the way.
Duration: 2 days
Getting There: A 1.7-hour train ride from Chengdu.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn, especially from late October to early November.
Asia Odyssey Travel offers pre-designed tour itineraries and can also customize travel plans according to your needs. Contact us for a national park trip or a trip that combines a national park with a city tour.
7. Guilin Li River National Park - Enjoying Karst Landscapes by River Cruise
Guilin Li River National Park (桂林漓江国家公园) is a frequent fixture on China national parks list. Even before visiting, you'll likely have heard the famous saying, "Guilin's scenery is the best under heaven."
This park is ideal for those seeking Karst landscapes, classic Chinese pastoral landscapes, scenic river cruises, and picture-perfect photography.
Guilin Li River National Park, more of a scenic area than a park itself, is a designated national key scenic spot in China. The 83-kilometer Li River, winding through Guilin and Yangshuo, is celebrated for its distinctive karst landscape.
The riverbanks are adorned with unique Karst landscape, including Elephant Trunk Hill and Nine Horses Fresco Hill, harmonizing beautifully with the crystal-clear waters. The journey reveals classic southern Chinese rural vistas, especially captivating during the spring and autumn seasons.
We recommend taking a 4-hour Li River cruise to fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural landscapes along both banks. Countless naturally formed scenic spots will effortlessly fill your photo album.
Plus, you can try bamboo rafting under bridges and feel the refreshing splash of water. You can also enjoy cycling through the Yangshuo countryside!
Duration: 1-2 days
Getting There: 1 hour drive from Guilin.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
8. Lijiang Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park - The Sacred Naxi Mountain
If snow-capped peaks are calling, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (丽江玉龙雪山国家公园) is a must-see in Lijiang, Yunnan. The national park that envelops it, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park, also secures its place as one of the best national parks in China. It will satisfy every snow mountain enthusiast's desire.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park boasts one of China's closest snow mountain ranges to the equator. This national park is renowned for its 13 snow-capped peaks, glacial landscapes, vibrant lakes, and alpine meadows.
These majestic, rolling snow mountains hold a sacred place in the hearts of the Naxi people. Their peaks, perpetually capped with snow, gleam like a silver dragon soaring through the azure sky under the sunlight.
You can take a cable car to admire the stunning views. At the summit, you can explore meadows and ancient forests. Many visitors are eager to capture the "Golden Summit Sunrise" and make a wish - you can try it too!
If you're interested in learning about Naxi culture and history, consider watching the "Impression Lijiang" show.
Duration: 1 day or more.
Getting There: 1 hour drive from Lijiang.
Best Time to Visit: September to November
9. Huangshan National Park - Discovering Unique Peaks and Rocks
Even seasoned mountain travelers will find Huangshan National Park (黄山国家公园) refreshing.
This national park, located in Huangshan City, Anhui Province, is a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site and a Global Geopark. It's renowned for its beautiful peaks and uniquely shaped rocks. The "Welcoming Pine" on the mountain is a favorite subject for photographers.
Climbing can be challenging, but you can also opt for a sightseeing bus and cable car for an easier ascent to the summit. Along the way, forests stretch as far as the eye can see. The granite peaks and twisted pine trees will captivate you.
Wake up early for a chance to witness the sea of clouds and sunrise.
Beyond the natural scenery, we recommend strolling through the ancient Huizhou villages near Huangshan, like Hongcun and Xidi, with their white walls and black roofs. It's a great chance to witness the production process of Huimo, a traditional Chinese ink stick, at an ink factory.
Duration: 3-4 days
Getting There: 1.5 hours drive from Huangshan City.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Asia Odyssey Travel, renowned for its extensive travel expertise, professional guides, and diverse itineraries, is ready to assist you. Contact us if you're interested in exploring any of China's national parks or other scenic destinations.
10. Wuyi Mountains National Park - Danxia Landscapes & Tea Culture
Tea culture and Danxia landform enthusiasts, look no further than Wuyi Mountains National Park, a gem among China national parks.
Wuyi Mountains National Park (武夷山国家公园) in Wuyishan City, Fujian is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its Danxia landscapes, including peaks and streams like Tianyou Peak and the Nine Bend Stream. It's also a renowned tea region, especially for Da Hong Pao tea.
Activities at Wuyishan include:
- For natural beauty, a must-do is to ascend Tianyou Peak, where panoramic views of the magnificent Danxia landforms await you at the summit. Or, you can enjoy a bamboo raft ride along the winding Nine Bend Stream.
- If you're interested in Confucian culture, the park features Zhuxi Garden, honoring the influential Neo-Confucian master. Additionally, you can discover the ancient Da Hong Pao mother trees and delve into the fascinating history of Dahongpao tea.
Duration: 3 days
Getting There: 30mins drive from Wuyishan city.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November)
11. Zhangye Danxia National Geopark - Marveling at Rainbow Mountains
Want to visit the filming location of Disney's Mulan? Come to Zhangye Danxia National Geopark (张掖丹霞国家地质公园)! This park is a haven for geologists and a dream come true for photographers.
Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, situated in Gansu, is both a UNESCO Global Geopark and a globally recognized geological marvel. This park is characterized by its stunning Danxia landforms, where the stratified patterns create a rainbow-like spectacle.
You can witness the Rainbow Mountains, featuring unique formations such as the Rainbow Screen, Sleeping Beauty, Giant Scallops, Monks Worshipping Buddha, Monkeys Watching the Sea, etc.
Walking along the trails that wind through the hills, you'll be constantly surprised.
Duration: 1 day
Getting There: Almost an hour's drive from Zhangye City.
Best Time to Visit: June to September
12. Potatso National Park - Unveiling the Wilderness
Potatso National Park (普达措国家公园) secures a spot among China best national parks. It's ideal for leisurely hikers.
Pudacuo National Park, China's first national park, is located in Shangri-La, Yunnan, high on the Tibetan Plateau, and is renowned for its pristine landscapes.
Within the park, you'll find picturesque hills, grasslands, lakes, diverse flora, and abundant birdlife. It also serves as a sanctuary for endangered plateau animals, such as leopards, cranes, macaques, and lynx.
You can admire the park's largest lake, Shudu Lake, and Bita Lake, a sacred site for local Tibetans. The lakes feature emerald-green waters with the backdrop of faintly visible, snow-capped mountains.
Duration: 1 day
Getting There: 30mins to 1 hour drive from Shangri-La.
Best Time to Visit: All year round.
8 Other China National Parks
Beyond the top 12 China best national parks detailed above, China boasts many more national parks with distinct features. If you're eager to explore further, stay tuned to Asia Odyssey Travel.
1. Emeishan National Park (峨眉山国家公园)
Mount Emei, one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and the Bodhimanda of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, is renowned for its Golden Summit, sunrise views, ancient temples, and playful monkeys.
It also holds the distinction of being the most challenging mountain to climb in China.
2. Shennongjia National Park (神农架国家公园)
Shennongjia National Park, an ancient forest, is the most mysterious of all China national parks. Some claim to have sighted a wild man there. You can explore the golden snub-nosed monkey research base, hike through the strangely shaped rock formations of Banbi Cliff, and in autumn, enjoy the mountains covered in red leaves.
3. Qilian Mountains National Park (祁连山国家公园)
Qilian Mountains National Park, guarding the Hexi Corridor's lifeline, features stunning glaciers and Danxia landscapes. It's enjoyful to see the summer meadows with grazing livestock and Tibetan Buddhism at Arou Great Temple.
4. Sanjiangyuan National Nature Reserve (三江源国家自然保护区)
Sanjiangyuan is less a national park and more a nature reserve. Located in the heart of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in Qinghai, it's the source of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang Rivers.
Its primary purpose is to protect wetlands and wildlife such as Tibetan antelopes and snow leopards.
If you want your journey to extend to Qinghai, Contact us!
5. Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park (海南热带雨林国家公园)
Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, China's only tropical rainforest national park, is home to unique species like the Cyathea spinulosa and Hainan Eld's deer.
It's interesting to head to the Li ethnic villages to experience boat-shaped houses and bamboo pole dancing. For hikers, a trek through Jianfengling is a must-try.
6. Mountain Lu National Park
Lushan National Park, located in Jiangxi, is a widely celebrated as a summer retreat with an average temperature of 22°C (72°F) in the summer. It boasts breathtaking views such as the sea of clouds at Hanpokou and the Three-Tiered Spring Waterfall.
7. Zhejiang Qianjiangyuan National Park (浙江钱江源国家公园)
Zhejiang Qianjiangyuan National Park embodies the tranquil beauty of China's southern water regions. The source of the Qiantang River is hidden within secluded valleys, while vast bamboo forests shelter ancient villages with their iconic white walls and black roofs.
8. Northeast Tiger and Leopard National Park (东北虎豹国家公园)
Northeast Tiger and Leopard National Park is China's first dedicated tiger and leopard habitat. The park uses infrared cameras to track wildlife. Winter visitors can find Siberian tiger footprints.
If you are interested in Northeast China, there's more scenic spots to explore.
Travel China National Parks with Asia Odyssey Travel
If you want to explore China's national parks, you'll find that most visitors dedicate 1-3 days to each park.
To enhance your experience with historical and cultural sites, consider combining your national park itinerary with other popular routes, such as the Golden Triangle (Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai), Panda Chengdu, or Yunnan Nature.
Whether you're planning an 8-day itinerary in China, a 2-week trip, or something shorter or longer, Asia Odyssey Travel is qualified to help you create a smooth travel experience!
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