There are so many historical sites in China that it's hard to choose which to visit first when you get the chance to go to the Middle Kingdom. China used to be the “Forbidden Nation,” in which the world had to look at through the glass darkly. Well, not anymore, with airlines crisscrossing the nation. The amazing history of 2,500 years (and counting!) is open for all to see and experience. Here are seven suggested historical sites in China that are simply “must see.”
The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, is one of the most well-known and important historical sites in China. It was the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties, serving as the political and ceremonial center of the country for over 500 years. The complex covers over 180 acres and consists of 980 buildings, making it the largest palace in the world. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a vast collection of artifacts and treasures from China's imperial past. Visiting the Forbidden City is a must for any traveler interested in Chinese history and culture.
The Temple of Heaven is one of the most important historical sites in China. It is located in Beijing and is easily accessible by subway or car. Built in the 15th century, the temple was used by the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties to make sacrifices to Heaven and pray for good harvests. The temple complex is comprised of three main buildings, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is the most impressive and is a three-tiered, circular building with a blue roof. It is said that if you stand in the exact spot inside the temple walls, your prayers will be heard in the highest level of Heaven. The Temple of Heaven is a must-see for anyone visiting Beijing.
The Tomb of the Nanyue King is one of the most important historical sites in China. Located in the southern city of Guangzhou, it was discovered by chance during the construction of a hotel parking lot. The tomb is believed to be that of an ancient emperor of South China, and it is filled with relics that would have made any Egyptian Pharaoh jealous. The entire museum is located over the tomb, and it can be visited in just one hour. Inside, visitors can find a range of artifacts, including pottery, jade, and bronze items. The tomb is a unique reminder of the ancient Chinese civilization and its rich history.
The Terracotta Warriors are located in the Lintong District of Xian, Shaanxi province. They are part of the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, the burial site of the first emperor of a unified China. The site was discovered in 1974 by local farmers and is estimated to contain over 8,000 life-sized terracotta figures. The figures are in full battle array and are believed to have been created to protect the emperor in the afterlife. The figures vary in height, uniform, and hairstyle, and are believed to represent the emperor's army. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a major tourist attraction.
The Great Wall of China, also known as the "Long Wall," spans over 13,000 miles and is considered one of the greatest architectural achievements in human history. It was built over a period of 2,000 years, with the earliest sections dating back to the 7th century BC. The Wall served as a military defense system, but it also played a significant role in trade and transportation, as well as cultural exchange between China and other regions. It is made up of various sections, each with its own unique features and history. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of China's rich cultural heritage.
The Drum and Bell Tower, located in central Beijing, were once a crucial part of daily life in the capital city. The bells would ring each morning to wake up the residents and the drums would signal the end of the day. However, in times of danger, these structures played an even more important role. The drums and bells would sound the alarm to gather all Chinese residents to defend their city against invading armies from the north. Today, visitors can still witness the traditional drum and bell performances at the tower and learn about their historical significance in Chinese culture.
Anyone want to add more sites to this list?