China 🇨🇳

★★★★★ GUILIN If cycling paradise exists, it’s in Yangshuo and Guilin—China’s undisputed champions for two-wheeled adventure. Glide along the Yulong and Li Rivers, weave through emerald rice paddies, and marvel at surreal karst peaks that look straight out of a Chinese watercolor. The famous Ten-Mile Gallery and Moon Hill routes are Instagram gold, while ancient villages and bustling markets add a dash of local flavor. With top-notch bike rentals and dedicated paths, it’s no wonder this region tops every cyclist’s bucket list.

★★★★★ QINGHAI LAKE Craving high-altitude thrills? Qinghai Lake is your ticket to the wild side. Circle China’s largest inland lake at 3,200 meters, where the air is thin, the skies are endless, and the scenery shifts from golden wildflowers to shimmering blue waters. Join the legendary Qinghai Lake International Cycling Race or simply soak up the Tibetan culture and birdlife along the way. This is adventure cycling with a capital “A”—remote, challenging, and utterly unforgettable.

★★★★★ CHENGDU (SICHUAN-TIBET HIGHWAY) Known as one of China’s most demanding cycling routes, this journey takes riders through the awe-inspiring Tibetan Plateau, offering unparalleled views of snow-capped mountains and expansive grasslands. This route challenges cyclists with high altitudes and varying weather conditions, appealing to adventurous riders looking for a transformative experience through some of China’s most dramatic landscapes.

★★★★☆ HAINAN ISLAND Tropical breezes, coconut palms, and endless coastal roads—Hainan Island is China’s answer to island cycling bliss. Cruise the East Line or tackle the Grand Loop, passing sandy beaches, fishing villages, and lush rainforests. The Tour of Hainan draws pros and amateurs alike, but you don’t need a race number to enjoy the year-round sunshine and laid-back island vibes. Perfect for both leisure riders and long-distance explorers.

★★★★☆ XI’AN ANCIENT CITY WALL History buffs, saddle up! Where else can you pedal atop a 600-year-old city wall, gazing out over ancient pagodas and bustling markets? Xi’an’s 14-kilometer wall circuit is a unique urban adventure, offering panoramic views and a direct link to China’s imperial past. Rent a bike, ride the ramparts, and finish with a feast of Shaanxi noodles in the city’s vibrant food streets.

★★★★☆ SHANGHAI Urban explorers, rejoice—Shanghai’s cycling scene is as dynamic as the city itself. Spin along the Bund with its futuristic skyline, cruise through the leafy French Concession, or join the locals on riverside greenways. With a thriving bike culture, creative industry parks, and endless rental options, Shanghai is the perfect blend of cosmopolitan cool and pedal-powered fun.

★★★★☆ DALI & ERHAI LAKE For a ride with a view, head to Dali and circle the sparkling Erhai Lake in Yunnan Province. This 120-kilometer loop is a favorite among cyclists for its mix of Bai minority villages, ancient temples, and snow-capped mountain backdrops. Whether you’re chasing sunrise over the water or stopping for local snacks in a lakeside hamlet, Dali delivers a magical mix of culture and scenery.

★★★★☆ HANGZHOU Poetic, peaceful, and perfect for a leisurely spin—Hangzhou’s West Lake is a classic for a reason. Glide past willow-lined shores, ancient pagodas, and tea plantations, all within easy reach of the city. With flat, well-maintained paths and plenty of rental bikes, it’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone seeking a gentle ride through one of China’s most beautiful cities.

★★★☆☆ BEIJING Cycle through history in China’s capital, where ancient hutongs meet modern marvels. Explore the Forbidden City, pedal past Olympic landmarks, or challenge yourself on the hilly roads north of town with views of the Great Wall. Beijing’s cycling scene is vibrant and varied, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and urban energy.

★★★☆☆ GUANGZHOU With thousands of kilometers of greenways and a subtropical climate, Guangzhou is fast becoming a favorite for urban cyclists. Cruise along the Pearl River, explore leafy parks, and discover a city that’s as bike-friendly as it is delicious (dim sum, anyone?).