As China continues easing travel barriers with visa-free policies for select European nations, international visitors are increasingly curious about authentic experiences beyond the Great Wall and Forbidden City. Through insights from Chinese residents and CGTN's recent Q\u0026A segment, we uncover lesser-known destinations gaining local endorsement.
Cultural Crossroads: Xi'an and Beyond
The ancient Silk Road city of Xi'an remains a perennial favorite, with its Terracotta Warriors captivating history buffs. Meanwhile, Sichuan's Chengdu attracts wildlife enthusiasts eager to observe giant pandas in conservation-focused habitats.
Nature's Masterpieces
From Guilin's ethereal limestone karsts to the rainbow-colored Zhangye Danxia landforms, China's geological wonders draw particular praise. A Beijing-based tour guide notes: "Many visitors underestimate our ecological diversity – Jiuzhaigou Valley's turquoise lakes often leave them speechless."
Modern Marvels Meet Rural Charm
While Shanghai's futuristic skyline showcases urban innovation, residents frequently suggest balancing city tours with rural experiences. Fujian's tulou earthen buildings and Yunnan's terraced rice fields offer glimpses into sustainable living traditions.
Policy Impacts and Future Prospects
The unilateral visa waiver for 15 European countries has already increased airport traffic by 34% year-on-year according to preliminary data. Enhanced high-speed rail connectivity and multilingual visitor services aim to sustain this momentum.
For travelers seeking personalized recommendations, platforms like CGTN's "Ask China" initiative provide crowdsourced insights from local experts.
