China

Historic Sites & Landmarks in China

1-10 / 12
  • Temple of Heaven Beijing, China 1420

    Completed in 1420, this magnificent temple was considered the meeting point of Earth and Heaven. For 500 years it hosted the emperors' sacrifices and prayers for a good harvest at the winter solstice.

  • Great Wall of China China

    Stretching across over 5,000 miles (8,850 km) of scenic landscape, the Great Wall of China is one of the most impressive and famous landmarks in the world.

  • Yungang Grottoes China

    Located near Datong in the Shanxi province, the Yungang Grottoes are one of the three most famous rock-cut temples in China. Their rich carvings and paintings date primarily from the 5th and 6th centuries.

  • National Grand Theatre Beijing, China

    Nicknamed "The Bird's Egg," this opera house in Beijing is a distinctive work of modern architecture. Designed by Paul Andreu, it is an ellipsoid dome of titanium and glass surrounded by an artificial lake.

  • Wangfujing Church Beijing, China 1904

    Originally founded in 1653, Wangfujing (a.k.a. St. Joseph's) Church was rebuilt in 1904 in the Romanesque style.

  • Samye Monastery China

    Founded in the 8th century, Samye Monastery was the first Buddhist monastery built in Tibet. It is designed like a mandala, with the central temple symbolizing Mount Meru, center of the universe.

  • Niu Jie Mosque Beijing, China

    There are around 200,000 Muslims in Beijing. The Niu Jie mosque in the Muslim Quarter of the city is a colorful building in Chinese style, with text in Chinese and Arabic.

  • Tirthapuri Hot Springs China

    Located north of Mount Kailash, Tirthapuri is an important pilgrimage site. After bathing in the hot springs, pilgrims visit a monastery that enshrines the footprints of Guru Rinpoche.

  • White Cloud Temple Beijing, China

    Once the most influential Taoist center in China, this recently renovated temple is now the home of 30 monks and the China Taoism Association.

  • Lama Temple Beijing, China

    This temple is fairly touristy but is still worth a visit for its colorful 17th-century architecture. It is an active Tibetan Buddhist center, but one that is officially sponsored by the Chinese government.

1-10 / 12