The expansive eastern country of China is a popular tourist destination for people from all around the world. Every year, people embark on their travels to China to experience the stunning cultural heritage, harmonious living, ecstatic festivals, and much more. While there are many places to visit throughout the year, December is a magical time since this is when holiday festivities are at their peak. For travelers who are looking to explore China, here’s a list of the best places to visit during December.
Beijing
Beijing is one of the most traveled-to cities in China not only because of its proximity to some other popular destinations but also due to the exciting attractions it houses. December in Beijing is usually cold with icy-cold winds, however, the city welcomes a vast array of visitors from all over the world who come here to experience the illustrious culture, captivating monuments, and dreamy back streets. From the Temple of Heaven, Great Wall of China, and Forbidden City to endless shopping possibilities at the renowned markets, Beijing offers an amazing experience to its admirers.
Chengdu
Chengdu in southwest China is a must-visit destination for visitors who are travelling to China in December. During winter season, the city witnesses a moderate climate. The highlight of Chengdu is definitely its pandas which reside in their adorable little homes at the Chengdu Giant Panda Research Base where people can observe them playing around, brewing tea, and doing fun activities. Other attractions include Jinli Street, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, and Renmin Park.
Chongqing
The ‘mountain city’ of Chongqing lies in central-western China, and is an impressive destination for travelers as it exudes the city vibe while giving the warm hugs of nature in its vicinity. December in Chongqing is foggy and mild and people flock from nearby cities to enjoy the lively festivals of the Chongqing citizens. A sightseeing bus passes by multiple spots along the way, including the Ciqikou Ancient Town and Chaotianmen which is the biggest pier at the Yangtze river. Locals also use this time to flaunt their culture through dance, music, and art – so tourists can step outside their comfort zone and cherish local culture to its fullest.
Hangzhou
Hangzhou in southeast Zhejiang province is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in China. Hemmed along the famous West Lake, this city is renowned for its enchanting natural scenery and cultural heritage. December in Hangzhou is quite cold and foggy – but the fog surmounts to one of a kind, dreamlike experiences for visitors. From the must-see attractions like West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Feilai peak, and Huagang Six Harmonies Pavilion, to the plethora of local delicacies, Hangzhou is an ideal destination for a December tour of China.
Xi’an
Xi’an is a heavily populated city in northwest China. This ancient city was one of the keys to the ancient Silk Road, and has many captivating attractions such as the Ancient City Walls, the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, and the vibrant Muslim Quarter. During December the climate in Xi’an isn’t as dry and cold as other places, however, snowfall is still a common occurrence here. Hence, this is also one of the most alluring destinations for travelers who want to experience a snow-covered December in China
Jiuzhaigou
Picture a paradise of snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, beautiful waterfalls, serene grasslands, and green coniferous forests in December. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, all of that exists at Jiuzhaigou which is a nature reserve located in the high altitude of Sichuan. This is a fabulous destination for visitors to experience the snow-clad winter vibes while exploring some of the exotic natural wonders. Jiuzhaigou also offers solitude and a thorough respite from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
Reasons to Visit China During Winter
China can witness extreme cold during winter season in some of the areas of the country, however, December is not the coldest period yet, and therefore more apt to experience the best of Chinese culture without feeling too uncomfortable. Additionally, visiting China in December allows tourists to witness the exuberance of Chinese cultural festivals, enjoy the delicious winter cuisine, and pass their time amidst picturesque snow-covered landscapes.
Best Winter Festivals
Chinese winter festivals are perhaps the most renowned attraction of December in China. All the major cities and some of the small towns celebrate festive events like the Lantern Festival as well as multiple concerts. Moreover, winter dates such as the New Year’s Eve and Christmas in China are celebrated with great monstrosity as compared to the western culture.
Winter Cuisines
The winter season is appropriate to experiment with lots of Chinese local cuisines. From hot pot dishes, sweet dried fruits, baozi, and niangao to traditional dumplings and hot and spicy deliveries, December is the perfect period to let your tastebuds explore unique dishes and enjoy melt-in-the-mouth bites.
Winter Activities
From enjoyable outdoor recreation to fun indoor activities, China has an amazing set of self-exploration options during winter. People can go skiing in the snowy mountains, get close to the local culture by visiting various museums, practice bird-watching, cultural shows, river cruises, and hot springs. December is all about experiencing the chills and thrills of unique winter activities.
Winter Shopping
One of the most enjoyed activities in China in December is shopping. Numerous markets and shopping malls open up their shops with beautiful winter sales. With discounts on almost all the items and exclusive festivals, shopping can be a rewarding activity during winter vacations. This is also a great way to explore the local market and buy souvenirs to take back home as memories.
