When one thinks of China, national parks are probably not the first thing that springs to mind. Within the country’s borders, however, there are over 200 separate national parks. The Chinese government has made a concerted effort to extend the national park system in recent years. Mostly to reduce pollution, safeguard natural resources, and protect the epidemic creatures that dwell inside these boundaries.
China is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, owing to its vastness. As a result, these national parks provide an unrivaled diversity of plant and animal life, as well as unusual geological structures and breathtaking streams.
China’s national parks are also significant historical landmarks. These national parks contain relics from the past, religious sites, and spiritual landmarks that remind tourists of China’s vast history in a beautiful natural setting. Also, read Best National Parks in Malaysia
1: Jiuzhaigou National Park
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This national park is a true wonder of nature. Cascading waterfalls, crystal blue lakes, and limestone hills make up the stunning natural beauty. It is located on the Tibetan Himalayan Plateau and is part of the Min Shan mountain range.
In commemoration of the Tibetans who dwell nearby, the park’s name means “nine villages.” As a result, the park contains many Tibetan places of worship that are linked to the natural terrain. Jiuzhaigou is also home to a diverse range of endangered species, including China’s black and white pandas, the Sichuan golden monkey, and the takin.
2: Guilin Lijiang National Park
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The Guilin Lijiang National Park is unlike any other place on the planet. It is one of the most popular tourist sites in China, located in the south. Visitors are treated to stunning views of Guilin’s iconic karst formations from the Lijiang River. The ancient Chinese gave each hill a name based on what they thought the formation looked like.
Elephant Trunk Hill, Cock-Fighting Hill, and Dragons Head Hill were born as a result of this. “Guilin’s scenery is the best among all under heaven,” according to a popular Chinese proverb, and many visitors tend to agree. Within the park’s boundaries, there are a number of well-known caves to visit. Also read, Banff National Park.
3: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
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This magnificent national park is famed for its one-of-a-kind, breathtaking splendour. It is made up of massive sandstone pillars, abundant fauna, and lush vegetation. As they stretch skyward, evergreen bushes cling to the sides of the sandstone pinnacles. Natural vegetation covers 98 percent of the park, which is home to over 150 types of wildlife, including endangered species like the rhesus monkey, golden pheasant, musk deer, and giant salamander.
There are numerous streams and canals running through the park, as well as valleys to explore, adding to the area’s charm. Zhangjiajie National Park is unlike any other place on the planet.
4: Shilin National Park
The’stone forest’ is a highlight of this strange national park. Many of the park’s unusual rock formations resemble petrified trees, earning it the name. There are numerous routes that lead around the park, as well as a diversified bird population.
The ‘Ashima stone’ is the most well-known of all the stones. When a beautiful Yi girl ran away from home, legend has it that she was turned to stone amid the forest. When she learned that her parents would not allow her to marry the man she loved, she did so. Aside from the stone forest, the park is home to caverns, lakes, and waterfalls. Also read, Mesa Verde National Park.
5: Huangshan National Park
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Huangshan, which translates as “yellow mountains,” is an apt moniker for this national park. The vividly coloured mountain range is comprised of rugged granite peaks engulfed by pine forests. Many of these trees appear to be clinging to life.
Over the ages, the park has captivated innumerable artists, particularly water and ink painters, and it continues to do so now. Many of these artists consider the Huangshan mountain range to be China’s most beautiful. Another highlight of the area is its hot springs, which provide breathtaking views. Despite the fact that the park’s landscape changes with the seasons, it never loses its allure.
6: Sanqingshan National Park
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The granite peaks and pillars that make up this stunning national park’s scenery are otherworldly. Forests, vast valleys, and waterfalls are interspersed among them. The ‘one pures’ are the three main summits of Mount Sanqing, the park’s namesake. Yuhua, Yushui, and Yujing represent the Taoist triad. For over 1500 years, the park has been a centre of pilgrimage for Chinese Taoists.
The terrain of the otherwise natural surroundings is dotted with ancient temples and antiquities. There are over 2000 kinds of planet life here, including ancient rhododendrons that cover the hillsides in May and June. Also read, Shenandoah National Park.
7: Emeishan National Park
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Mount Emei, the highest of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains, is located in this lovely park. Visitors to the top, which is 3099 metres above sea level, are occasionally treated to a sea of clouds. Over 100 temples and monasteries may be found atop the mountain, which is considered a traditional destination of enlightenment.
The Golden Summit, Baoguo Temple, Wannian Temple, and Qingyin Pavilion are among the most well-known attractions. All of them provide breathtaking views of the natural landscape. Hundreds of Buddhists visit the mountains each year because of its significant spiritual significance to the Buddhist community. Rare floral species, as well as indigenous creatures such as Tibetan Macaques and a variety of monkeys, can be found in the park.
8: Huanglong National Park
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His national park is one of a kind. It is known for its colourful, calcified ponds and lakes that are nestled between mountain slopes and lush woodlands. The pools themselves are stunning, with turquoise, deep blues, and vibrant yellows strewn over them.
Water flows down from the neighbouring glaciers and mountain ranges, filling the ponds. The park also has caves and waterfalls to explore. Back and Ancient Temple are two well-known Taoist temples. The surrounding mountain range is occasionally blanketed in snow, adding to the park’s already stunning beauty. Also read, Mount Rainier National Park.
9: Huangguoshu National Park
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Huangguoshu National Park, in Western China, is home to one of Asia’s greatest waterfalls. Huangguoshu Waterfall, the park’s namesake, is around 250 metres in height and width. Hidden beyond the falls veil of water is a magnificent naturally formed cave.
The cave is open to those who do not want to get wet. On bright days, the mist from the waterfall creates an enchanting rainbow against the rich vegetation of the park’s backdrop.
Around the falls, there are several viewing platforms and walkways, including one that provides a bird’s eye perspective of this natural wonder. The temperature is a pleasant 16 degrees Celsius all year, making this park appealing to visitors regardless of the season. Also read, North Cascades National Park.
10: Lushan National Park
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For millennia, spiritual leaders have gravitated to this region. It is renowned for its traditional Chinese environment of rivers, mountains, and woods. Over 200 Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucius relics and temples still exist today.
The protected area stretches from the Yangtze River to the Lake Poyang Basin, with a variety of mountains, gorges, valleys, and caves to explore. The park is well-connected by trails and relatively quiet, making it ideal for a relaxing weekend away in a beautiful natural setting.