The Best Destinations To Visit In China In December

China is a vast and diverse country, offering a myriad of destinations to explore throughout the year. December, with its cool temperatures and festive atmosphere, is a fantastic time to visit this captivating land. From ancient historical sites to picturesque natural wonders, China is filled with incredible destinations just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're seeking a bustling city adventure or a tranquil escape into nature, we have curated a list of the best destinations to visit in China in December, ensuring you have an unforgettable journey in this enchanting country. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a winter wonderland adventure in China!

Top Winter Destinations in China

China is a vast country with diverse landscapes and climates, making it an ideal destination for winter travel. From snow-capped mountains to charming ancient towns, there are plenty of options for those seeking a unique winter experience. Whether you are adventurous and looking for outdoor activities or prefer a cozy retreat, China has it all. Here are some of the top winter destinations in China:

Harbin:

Known as the "Ice City," Harbin is famous for its annual Ice and Snow Festival. Visitors can marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and enjoy various winter activities such as ice-skating, ice-sliding, and snowmobiling. Don't miss the chance to visit the world's largest ice maze and take part in the Ice Lantern Fair.

Zhangjiajie:

Located in Hunan province, Zhangjiajie is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." In winter, the mountains are covered in snow, creating a magical atmosphere. Take a cable car ride to Tianmen Mountain or explore the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park on foot for breathtaking views.

Jiuzhaigou Valley:

Jiuzhaigou Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. During winter, the valley is transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a peaceful and serene experience. The frozen waterfalls and lakes create a surreal landscape, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Emei Mountain:

Emei Mountain, one of China's sacred Buddhist mountains, is not only a popular pilgrimage site but also a great destination for winter hiking. The mountain boasts stunning landscapes, including snow-covered trees and panoramic views from the summit. Take a leisurely hike through the snowy trails and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Jiuhua Mountain:

Another sacred Buddhist mountain, Jiuhua Mountain offers a unique winter experience with its ancient temples and snow-covered peaks. The foggy and misty atmosphere adds to the mystical ambiance, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and spiritual reflection.

Lijiang:

Located in Yunnan province, Lijiang is a charming ancient town surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and picturesque canals. Enjoy strolling through the town, sipping tea in a local teahouse, or visit the nearby Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for breathtaking views.

Beijing:

As the capital of China, Beijing offers a mix of ancient history and modern attractions. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven. In winter, the city is less crowded, offering a more intimate experience. Take a walk on the frozen lakes in the Summer Palace or go ice-skating in one of the many parks.

Guilin:

Known for its stunning karst landscape and picturesque Li River, Guilin is a popular destination year-round. In winter, the landscape is enveloped in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere. Take a scenic boat ride down the Li River or explore the countryside on a bicycle to truly appreciate the beauty of Guilin.

These are just a few of the top winter destinations in China. Each offers a unique experience, from winter festivals and outdoor activities to serene landscapes and cultural exploration. Whether you are seeking snow-filled adventures or a tranquil retreat, China has something for everyone to enjoy during the winter months.

Festive Celebrations in December in China

December is a great time to visit China and witness the country's vibrant and colorful festive celebrations. From traditional customs to modern festivities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you are wondering where to travel in China in December, here are some festive celebrations that you shouldn't miss.

• Chinese New Year: Also known as Spring Festival, Chinese New Year is the most important traditional holiday in China. It typically falls in late January or early February, but preparations and celebrations start in December. Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai are adorned with festive decorations, and the streets are filled with performances, parades, and lion dances. The highlight of the festival is the spectacular fireworks display that lights up the sky.
• Winter Solstice: Celebrated on December 21 or 22, the Winter Solstice is an ancient festival that is still observed by many Chinese communities. It is believed to be the day with the longest night and marks the beginning of longer days and the eventual arrival of spring. Families gather together to eat a special dish called Tangyuan, which are glutinous rice balls served in a sweet soup. The round shape of the Tangyuan symbolizes reunion and harmony.
• Christmas: Although not a traditional Chinese festival, Christmas has gained popularity in China, especially in big cities like Shanghai. Shopping malls and streets are decorated with lights and Christmas trees, and you can find holiday sales and special events throughout the month of December. Many restaurants and cafes also offer Christmas-themed menus and promotions. If you're in China during Christmas, make sure to visit the famous shopping streets, like Nanjing Road in Shanghai, to experience the festive atmosphere.
• Harbin Ice and Snow Festival: This annual festival takes place in Harbin, a city in northeastern China, and runs from December to February. Harbin is known for its extremely cold winter temperatures, which create the perfect conditions for the festival's breathtaking ice sculptures and snow sculptures. In addition to the sculptures, there are also ice lantern shows, snow slides, and ice skating activities. The festival is a true winter wonderland and a must-visit for anyone traveling to China in December.
• Lantern Festival: The Lantern Festival marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations and falls on the 15th day of the lunar calendar, which usually falls in February. However, preparations for the festival begin in December with the construction and decoration of lanterns. The festival is celebrated with lantern displays, lantern riddles, and the release of lanterns into the sky. The most famous lantern festival in China is held in Pingxi, a small town near Taipei, Taiwan. Thousands of lanterns are released simultaneously, creating a magical sight.

These are just a few of the festive celebrations that take place in China in December. Depending on your interests and travel preferences, you can choose to immerse yourself in the traditional customs of Chinese New Year or enjoy the modern festivities of Christmas. Whatever you choose, you're guaranteed to have a memorable and festive experience in China during this time of the year.

Winter Activities and Attractions in China

Are you thinking about traveling to China in December? Whether you're a winter sports enthusiast or you simply enjoy the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, China offers a multitude of winter activities and attractions to keep you entertained during your visit. From breathtaking ice festivals to thrilling skiing experiences, here are some of the top winter activities and attractions in China.

• Harbin Ice and Snow Festival: Harbin, located in the northeast of China, is famous for hosting one of the world's largest and most spectacular ice and snow festivals. Starting from late December, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, showcasing colossal ice sculptures, intricate snow carvings, and illuminated ice buildings. Visitors can also enjoy activities like ice skating, snowboarding, and taking a relaxing walk along the frozen Songhua River.
• Yabuli Ski Resort: As the largest ski resort in China, Yabuli offers a range of skiing and snowboarding options for both beginners and experienced skiers. Located in Heilongjiang Province, this resort boasts high-quality slopes and modern facilities. You can choose from various ski runs, take lessons from professional instructors, or simply enjoy the beautiful snow-covered scenery.
• Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: While not typically associated with winter activities, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province offers a unique winter experience. The park's famous quartz sandstone pillars, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar", take on a whole new level of beauty when covered in snow. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the mountain peaks, hike along icy trails, and marvel at the frozen waterfalls amidst the tranquility of the winter landscape.
• Jilin Rime Island: Located near Jilin City in Jilin Province, Rime Island is famous for its picturesque scenery during the winter months. When the temperatures drop below freezing, the island is enveloped in a thick layer of frost, creating a magical sight known as "rime". The trees, buildings, and even the grass are coated in frost, resembling a fairytale-like winter wonderland.
• Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival: Just outside of Beijing, the Longqing Gorge hosts an annual Ice Lantern Festival that attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival features impressive ice sculptures, towering ice pagodas, and a colorful display of illuminated ice lanterns. Visitors can also enjoy ice skating, snow tubing, and taking a thrilling ride down the ice slide.
• Yunnan Stone Forest: If you're looking for a milder winter experience, Yunnan Stone Forest in Kunming offers a unique natural wonder. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features towering limestone formations that resemble a forest made of stone. In December, the Stone Forest is often draped in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere. Visitors can explore the park's scenic trails and admire the ethereal beauty of the rocky landscape.

No matter where you choose to travel in China in December, you'll find a variety of winter activities and attractions to suit your interests. From adrenaline-pumping ski resorts to enchanting ice festivals and stunning natural wonders, China has something to offer every traveler seeking a memorable winter experience. So pack your warmest clothes and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Best Places to Experience Snow in China

China is a vast country with diverse landscapes and climates, offering a wide range of choices for travelers seeking snowy winter experiences. Whether you are a fan of winter sports, seeking a winter wonderland, or interested in traditional Chinese culture, there are plenty of places in China where you can experience the beauty of snow during the month of December. Here are some of the best places to experience snow in China.

Harbin

Located in northeastern China, Harbin is famous for its annual Ice and Snow Festival, which takes place from December to February. This festival showcases magnificent ice sculptures, snow sculptures, and international ice and snow competitions. Visitors can also enjoy ice skating, ice slides, and ice lantern shows. Harbin is a dream destination for snow lovers and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a winter wonderland.

Changbai Mountain

Changbai Mountain, located on the border of China and North Korea, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With its stunning snowy landscapes, it offers great opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The most famous attraction on Changbai Mountain is Tianchi, a crater lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks. Visitors can also explore the nearby Changbai Waterfall, which freezes into a spectacular ice waterfall during the winter months.

Yabuli

Yabuli is China's largest and most famous ski resort, located in Heilongjiang Province. It offers a wide range of ski slopes suitable for all levels, making it a perfect destination for both beginners and advanced skiers. The resort also hosts international ski competitions, attracting professional skiers from around the world. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy snowboarding, snowmobiling, and even ice sculpting classes.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Although not primarily known for its snow, Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan Province transforms into a winter wonderland during December. The valley's turquoise lakes, frozen waterfalls, and snow-covered forests create a magical scene straight out of a fairytale. Visitors can explore the valley on foot or take a horse-drawn carriage to admire the snowy landscapes. It's a breathtaking experience that shouldn't be missed.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar," Zhangjiajie National Forest Park also offers a unique winter experience. When covered in snow, the landscape takes on a completely different charm, with the pillars resembling giant white icicles. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountains for stunning panoramic views of the snow-covered park.

Lhasa, Tibet

For those interested in experiencing a different kind of winter, Lhasa in Tibet offers a unique cultural and snowy experience. The Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is especially enchanting when covered in snow. Visitors can also explore the Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and other historical sites while enjoying the peaceful winter atmosphere. Lhasa is known for its clear blue skies and bright sunshine, making it an ideal winter destination.

When planning your trip to China in December, keep in mind that the weather and snow conditions may vary from year to year. It's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast and road conditions before traveling. Dress warmly, bring appropriate winter gear, and get ready to have an unforgettable winter adventure in China.

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