Given its rich historical and cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and ever-improving tourism infrastructure, China is one of the best destinations for senior travelers after your retirement. Here are five of the best places to visit in China for seniors.
1. Beijing: Royal Charm with Historical Sites
Suitable for: the elderly who like history and culture
Classic attractions such as Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and Beihai Park are suitable for experiencing the historical royal grandeur. A Great Wall of China tour at Badaling or Mutianyu section can be accessed by cable car to save energy. At the Temple of Heaven, an magnificent ancient sacrificial palace, you will see the local elderly people doing morning exercises, such as Tai Chi and square dancing. Ride a rickshaw through Hutong alleys, and you can experience the old Beijing easily.
2. Suzhou: Classical Gardens with Jiangnan-style Slow Life
Suitable for: Senior citizens who favor classical Chinese gardens and a leisurely atmosphere
The highlights of Suzhou’s gardens, The Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Lingering Garden are part of the World Heritage Sites, and ideal for a stroll to appreciate the aesthetics of classical gardens. The Suzhou Museum, designed by I.M. Pei, is one of the most beautiful museums in China and holds many treasures of ancient art and culture. You are also highly recommended to take a boat trip on the Grand Canal to learn more about its history.
3. Guilin and Yangshuo: A relaxing Journey through World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
Suitable for: China tours for seniors with natural scenery
Guilin is a photographer’s paradise, and also suitable for a suitable health trip to China. Take a relaxing 3-4 hour cruise on the Li River and enjoy the world-class karst landscapes. Take a cozy stroll in the idyllic Yangshuo countryside. And, don’t miss the 1-2 hours of comfortable and scenic bamboo rafting on Yangshuo’s Yulong River.
4. Xi’an: A Cultural Exploration of a 3,000-Year-Old Capital
Suitable for: Senior citizens interested in history
Xi’an is one of the world’s best-known historical capitals and ancient cities, with numerous historical sites. The Terracotta Warriors, one of the must-haves on any China tours, gives you an insight into the great army of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor. The Ancient City Wall of Xi’an, the largest and best preserved ancient city wall in China, is suitable for cycling or walking. At the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, you can learn about Xi’an’s history as the starting point of the Silk Road period.
5. Luoyang: Shaolin Kung Fu with Chinese Buddhist Culture
Suitable for: Those interested in Chinese Buddhist culture
One of the four great Buddhist grottoes in China, The Longmen Grottoes is one of the best places in China to savor Chinese Buddhist art. The White Horse Temple and the Shaolin Temple are among the oldest temples in China. At the Shaolin Temple, you can also enjoy the most authentic Chinese Kung Fu and learn about its origins.
