Bored of Japan? These cool cities in China should be next on your list

It starts with a clip: Watching someone biting into a sizzling skewer at a smoky night market in Changsha, or swirling through an ancient courtyard in flowing hanfu under Xi’an’s city walls. Suddenly, a city you’d barely heard of is everywhere on your feed. Across social media platforms, China’s urban and cultural gems are being rediscovered, capturing a moment and a mood.

These postcard places are cities with rhythm, flavour, and personality. From Chengdu’s laid-back tea culture to Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, each destination offers something cinematic, relatable, and deeply local. And with easier access thanks to China’s expanding visa-free transit policy and improved infrastructure, more travelers are embarking on this journey of exploration.

Whether you are chasing Insta-worthy photos, viral clips or stories worth telling, here are five top cities in China you need to (re-)visit now and some things you can do.

1. Beijing: Imperial grandeur meets modern power

As the capital of China, Beijing is a living museum of dynastic history layered with modern political and cultural life. Home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the city offers an unmatched look into China’s past and present.

Must-see attractions:

The Forbidden City: Once home to 24 emperors, this sprawling palace complex is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture.
The Great Wall (Mutianyu or Badaling sections): A bucket-list-worthy wonder that snakes through mountains just outside the city.
Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace: Stunning examples of imperial architecture and philosophy.

Why visit: Beijing encapsulates the weight of Chinese history while serving as the centre of its political power and national identity. Don’t miss the hutongs, which are traditional alleyways that give a glimpse of old Beijing life.

2. Shanghai

If Beijing is the soul of old China, Shanghai is its face to the world. A symbol of China’s rapid modernisation, the city is known for its sleek skyline, thriving art scene, and cosmopolitan culture.

Must-see attractions:

The Bund: A picturesque waterfront lined with colonial-era buildings facing the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong.
Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower: Offering breathtaking city views and a peek at China’s engineering ambitions.
Tianzifang and Former French Concession: Charming neighbourhoods filled with cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops.

Why visit: Shanghai offers a unique blend of old and new, Chinese and international. It is a paradise for architecture lovers, fashionistas, and foodies. Since it is one of China’s first-tier cities, you’ll find yourself settling in fast and easily.

3. Xi’an: Where history lives on

Once the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an is the cradle of Chinese civilisation and home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world.

Must-see attractions:

Terracotta Warriors: Thousands of life-sized statues that guarded Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s tomb.
Ancient City Wall: One of the best-preserved city walls in the world, perfect for walking or biking.
Muslim Quarter: A bustling area showcasing a fusion of Chinese and Islamic cultures with incredible street food.

Why visit: Xi’an was China’s capital for 13 dynasties. Offering a deep dive into ancient Chinese history and multicultural heritage, it is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the roots of Chinese civilisation.

4. Chengdu: The Laid-Back City of Pandas and Spice

Famous as the home of giant pandas and fiery Sichuan cuisine, Chengdu offers a slower pace of life and a focus on enjoyment, whether it is hotpot, tea, or traditional opera.

Must-see attractions:

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: The best place to see these iconic animals up close and learn more about them.
Jinli Ancient Street: A beautiful recreation of traditional architecture lined with snacks and crafts.
Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan Irrigation System: UNESCO sites offering nature, Taoist culture, and ancient engineering marvels.

Why visit: Chengdu’s charm lies in its relaxed lifestyle, rich culinary culture, and its proximity to natural wonders. It is a city that invites you to slow down, eat well, and truly feel the spirit of southwest China.

5. Changsha: Youthful Energy and Bold Flavours

Less visited by international tourists but beloved by locals, Changsha is a cultural and culinary powerhouse in central China. It is the capital of Hunan province and a rising star known for its vibrant nightlife, spicy food, and booming entertainment industry.

Must-see attractions:

Yuelu Academy: One of the oldest academic institutions in China, set against a scenic mountain backdrop.
Orange Isle (Juzizhou): A picturesque island in the Xiang River, home to a famous young Mao Zedong statue.
International Finance Square and Huangxing Road Walking Street: Bustling hubs for street snacks, shopping, and modern youth culture.

Why visit: Changsha is where traditional culture and Gen Z trends coexist. Think calligraphy by day, live band bars and street barbecue by night. It is also the home of Hunan cuisine – cues Xiang Xiang fans – where you can savour local specialities like stir-fried spicy crayfish and stinky tofu. And no, it’s not the same as Taiwan’s.

Why tourism in China is booming

With the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, your airport transfer can be turned into a 10-day mini vacation. Imagine swapping boring layovers with wandering through rustic ancient towns, sipping tea with locals, maybe even snapping a panda selfie, all without needing a visa.

This revamped policy – an extension of China’s existing 72-hour and 144-hour transit programmes – makes short-term visits more convenient with more eligible ports and regions, especially for travellers from 54 countries, including Singapore. Cities once overlooked during long-haul routes are now bucket-list-worthy detours.

China is also easier to explore than ever before. High-speed trains glide between cities in hours. You can pay for everything from dumplings to museum tickets with just your phone. And with translation apps, QR-coded guides, and streamlined transport, even first-timers feel at home navigating the country.

Then there’s the pull of the culture. Whether you are a fashionista, foodie or history buff, China’s cities are rich with texture, flavour, and story. This blend of old-world heritage and modern convenience is turning curiosity into action, and casual interest into real journeys.

Each city gives a different vibe, offering a unique window into the soul of the country, even if you’re just passing through. The question is, where do you want to start?

This article was originally published in FEMALE.