China photo locations

China is a vast country with diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and striking architecture, making it a fascinating destination for photographers. The best time to visit China for photography depends on the specific regions you want to explore, as the climate varies significantly from north to south.

When to go:
1. Northern China (Beijing, Great Wall, Harbin): The ideal time to visit is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are colorful. Winter (December to February) is also an option if you want to capture the snow-covered Great Wall or attend the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival.
2. Central China (Shanghai, Yellow Mountains): Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its peak.
3. Southern China (Guilin, Yunnan, Hong Kong): The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), as the weather is generally mild and the landscapes are lush and vibrant.

Most popular places to shoot:
1. Great Wall of China: This iconic landmark offers numerous photography opportunities along its vast expanse, with Mutianyu and Jinshanling being popular sections.
2. Forbidden City, Beijing: The ancient imperial palace provides a glimpse into China's history and features stunning architecture and intricate details.
3. Shanghai Skyline: The modern skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, offers striking cityscape photography opportunities, especially from the Bund.
4. Yellow Mountains (Huangshan): Known for its granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and seas of clouds, Huangshan is an ideal location for landscape photography.
5. Guilin and Yangshuo: Famous for its karst mountains, winding rivers, and lush rice terraces, this region offers breathtaking scenery.
6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: The inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar, this park features unique sandstone pillars and lush greenery.
7. Jiuzhaigou Valley: Known for its colorful lakes, snow-capped peaks, and dense forests, Jiuzhaigou offers a stunning backdrop for nature photography.
8. Potala Palace, Tibet: This iconic palace in Lhasa is an important religious site and features impressive architecture against a mountainous backdrop.
9. Yunnan Province: Home to diverse ethnic groups and stunning landscapes, including the Yuanyang Rice Terraces and the Tiger Leaping Gorge.
10. Hong Kong: The bustling city offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic temples, and vibrant street markets for urban photography.

Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your photography adventure in China:

Research locations and events: China is vast, with numerous locations offering unique photographic opportunities. Research in advance to identify places that interest you, such as famous landmarks, natural scenery, or local events and festivals.

Prepare your gear: Bring a versatile camera with a good zoom lens to capture a variety of scenes. Additionally, pack extra batteries, memory cards, and a lightweight tripod for stability in low-light situations.

Learn basic Mandarin phrases: Knowing a few Mandarin phrases can help you communicate with locals and ask for permission to photograph them. It's also helpful to learn the Chinese characters for "photography" (摄影) and "camera" (相机).

Be respectful of cultural norms and sensitivities: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in religious or spiritual settings. Avoid photographing military personnel, government buildings, or other restricted areas.

Discover the best photography locations in China with PhotoHound - our contributors have added 63 China photography locations so far.