Fifteen breathtaking landscapes across China

Lianbaoyeze, Sichuan
A realm rivaling the mythical world of The Lord of the Rings—yet this otherworldly stone mountain lies not abroad, but in Sichuan.
Best time to visit: June–July, December–January.

Jilong Castle Resort, Xingyi, Guizhou
A fairytale castle hidden deep within Guizhou’s mountains, as if one had wandered into a storybook.
Best time to visit: year-round.

Riyue Bay Coastal Road, Wanning, Hainan
One of the most stunning seaside roads I have ever traveled—palm groves, beaches, and the open ocean, no less magnificent than any coastal road abroad.
Best time to visit: year-round.

Leshan Cyathea Canyon
A lost Jurassic world—tens of thousands of ancient plants flourishing since the age of dinosaurs. Stepping inside feels like entering a primordial realm.
Best time to visit: March–April.

Nanao Island, Guangdong
An underrated island gem, where circling the coastline by car is one of the most romantic journeys imaginable.

Zhongshuge, Dujiangyan, Chengdu
Not Hogwarts, but a magical bookstore in Chengdu. Walking in feels like crossing into a world of enchantment.

Shaowan Xiaodong Rock Waterfall, Leshan, Sichuan
A landscape unlike anything else in China. The first time I came here, I felt as though I had stepped into the universe of The Lost Tomb—a cinematic portal to another world.
Best time to visit: summer.

Luohan Temple, Mianyang
Not Thailand, but a Southeast Asian–styled temple in Sichuan’s Mianyang, serene and exotic.

Yala Snow Mountain Scenic Area, Sichuan
A road leading straight toward the snow-capped peaks—magnificent in every season. In autumn, golden forests and glistening glaciers create an unforgettable tapestry.

Xinjiang
This is Xinjiang, China—yet its scenery feels as if one has wandered into Europe.

Qionglongtai, Yili, Xinjiang
Xinjiang’s landscapes rival Switzerland—snow mountains, forests, meadows, streams, and wooden cabins. It feels like stepping into Heidi’s alpine world.
Best time to visit: summer.

Hailar & Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia
I was astonished to discover countless castles here. As a border region, it is filled with European and Russian-style architecture, offering a strong sense of foreign charm.

Boundary Island, Lingshui, Hainan
A forgotten ancient fortress at the edge of the world.

Huanglongxi Invisible Church, Chengdu
In summer, the lavender fields bloom beneath a snow-white chapel—like wandering into a dreamscape.