As China experts and constant travelers, we’re always discovering new treasures and re-experiencing old favorites. In celebration and honor of China’s best hotels, sites and activities, this year AsiaTravel is launching our inaugural Best of China Awards.
Top 5 Hotels
From uber-hip luxury in Beijing to quiet contemplation and relaxation in Yunnan, our favorite hotels share common traits: a dedication to service, unique design, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Based on an in-depth survey and our guests’ feedback, our favorite China hotels in alphabetical order are:
The Langham Hotel, Shanghai: beautiful art deco style & a superb location
The Opposite House, Beijing: sustainable modern luxury & unparalleled amenities
Schoolhouse Homes, Mutianyu: a home away from home nestled next to the Great Wall
Sky and Sea Lodge, Dali: zen comfort in a serene village setting
Yourantai Lodge, Jinghong: traditional architecture & modern comfort in tropical Xishuangbanna
The terrace of the Opposite House penthouse on a beautiful evening
Top 5 Sites
It’s always hard to pick our favorite China destinations, but when we have to choose, we pick places that aren’t jammed with tourists, can only be found in China, and are once-in-lifetime experiences:
Bifengxia Panda Reserve, Sichuan:volunteer at the panda breeding center & hike in the wild
Dunhuang, Gansu:ride camels in the desert & visit thousand-year-old cave paintings
Everest Base Camp, Tibet:sleep in a monastery, watch the sun rise over the mountain
Kashgar, Xinjiang:wander the streets of the rapidly disappearing old town
Watertown of Wuzhen, Zhejiang: glimpse ancient Chinese life along the canals of a quietly beautiful town
Mt. Everest
Top 5 Activities
The best part of any AsiaTravel trip are the interactive activities you experience with your friends and family. These 5 must-do’s are ideal because they combine unique aspects of Chinese culture with superb access to sites and individuals.
Face to Face with the Terracotta Warriors, Xian: get up close to one of China’s treasures
Family homestay in Guizhou, Southwest China: learn about rural life with a friendly local family
Hike in Wenhai Valley, Lijiang: visit an untouched village in a pristine natural setting between the mountains
Private meeting with a lama at Songzanlin Monastery, Shangri-La: experience Tibetan Buddhism and spirituality with a master
Sunset picnic on the Great Wall, Beijing: watch the sun set over one of the world’s wonders
A breathtaking view of the Great Wall as the sun sets
Did we leave out your favorite hotel, site or activity? Let us know!