Best Honeymoon Places in China: Top 12 Romantic Destinations for Couples in 2026

Do you know that there are some of the best honeymoon places in China? Unlike other top-tier coastal destinations like the Maldives or European cities like Paris, China offers a more diverse, unique, and supper valuable experience.

Culture, history, and unparalleled natural scenery can all be combined, while it’s unnecessary to give up a luxurious travel style. Plus, services like 5-star hotels even cost 50-70% less than the most talked-about places!

To help you plan a perfect honeymoon journey to China, this article will compare the most romantic destinations, itineraries, costs, and travel tips specifically for you.

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• 1. Guilin & Yangshuo — Dreamy Karst Escape
• 2. Yunnan — Old Towns with Ethnic Life
• 3. Sanya — Sun-Kissed Shores
• 4. Hangzhou — A City of Romantic Tales
• 5. Huangshan — Above-the-Clouds Wonderland
• 6. Xiamen: The Romantic “Garden on the Sea”
• 7. Suzhou — Timeless Garden Beauty
• 8. Beijing — Imperial Grandeur Meets Hidden Charm
• 9. Chengdu — Slow Life & Flavor City
• 10. Kanas & Hemu — Real-Life Fairytale Landscape
• 11. Jiangnan Water Towns (Wuzhen, Xitang or Nanxun)— Lantern Glow & Canal Dreams
• 12. Shanghai — Neon Skyline & Luxury Nights
• How to Plan Your Romantic Tour in China
• Get Your Romantic Escape with China Xian Tour
• FAQs about the Best Honeymoon Places in China

 

1. Guilin & Yangshuo — Dreamy Karst Escape

• Highlights: Li River cruises, karst mountain views, bamboo rafting, countryside resorts, sunset photography

Guilin is praised as one of the best honeymoon places in China. It’s famous for the typical karst landform and the scenic Li River, where you can cruise through thousands of pinnacles and green mountains.

In Yangshuo, the idyllic countryside charm adds a more romantic experience. You can rent bikes or scooters to cycle through the town. The scenery is incredible along the way, and the road condition is perfect for a sightseeing trip. Taking a bamboo rafting trip is also a great idea, as it’s relaxing and pleasant.

Recommended Activities

• Cruise down the Li River and admire the karst formations along the way.
• Cycling along the Ten-Mile Gallery

Recommended Romantic Stays

It’s most recommended to stay near Two Rivers and Four Lakes (Elephant Trunk Hill Scenic Area). If staying in Yangshuo, better to choose hotels near the Yulong River and the Ten-mile Gallery.

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Ronghu Hotel	5-star	~CNY 500-2500 / USD 75-370
Marriott Hotel	5-star	~CNY 700-1000 / USD 100-150
Yuyuan Resort (遇源 Yangshuo)	5-star	~CNY 400-850 / USD 60-125

2. Yunnan — Old Towns with Ethnic Life

• Highlights: Lijiang Old Town, Erhai Lake, snow mountains

Many young Chinese couples would go to Yunnan to take wedding photos, especially in Dali and Lijiang. It has spring-like weather, fabulous natural scenery, and trust me, it’ll be a perfect moment to take your partner’s hand and soak in the ancient towns’ lively vibe.

After exploring the ancient towns and local ethnic culture (such as the Bai people), spend a peaceful and relaxing moment at Cangshan Mountain or Erhai Lake.

Recommended Activities for couples

• Take a boat ride on Erhai Lake, and have a picnic at sunset by the lake
• Take cable cars to the hiking trails on Cangshan Mountain
• Experience the life and traditions of ethnic groups.

Recommended Romantic Stays

If visiting Dali, then stay near Erhai Lake. If you want to stay in Lijiang, consider accommodations near the ancient town. When exploring other cities in Yunnan, consider Xishuangbanna’s rain forest.

 

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
InterContinental Hotel (Lijiang)	5-star	~CNY 1500-3000 / USD 220-440
Mingyuesongjian Hotel (明月松间 Dali)	5-star	~CNY 1700-4000 / USD 250-590
Suyinbanshan (素隐半山 Xishuangbanna)	4-star	~CNY 700-1500 / USD 100-220

3. Sanya — Sun-Kissed Shores

• Highlights: beaches, yacht cruises, ccean sunsets

Sanya is not only a great holiday escape but also a wonderful honeymoon destination. There are many luxurious hotels and yes, the beautiful sea and beaches set a perfect background to your pictures, but most importantly, they provide activities with so much fun.

Besides sunbathing or swimming and diving in Yalong Bay or Wuzhizhou Island, it is most recommended for couples to visit Tianyahaijiao (天涯海角). Tianya Haijiao, in translation, means “the end of the earth”. In Chinese culture, it means eternal love. It’s a highly romantic destination where you can explore love stories and coastal beauty with your partner.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Take a night walk along the Yalong Bay.
• Go for a couple’s spa treatment by the beach
• Enjoy a fancy dinner at sunset with views of the ocean

Recommended Romantic Stays

Many hotels offer special honeymoon stays, and it’s better to choose those located near the seaside, which may even have a private beach.

 

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Mandarin Oriental (near Dadonghai)	5-star	~CNY 2000-4000 / USD 290-590
Sanya Marriott Yalong Bay Resort & Spa	5-star	~CNY 800-1000 / USD 115-150
The Shanhaitian Resort Sanya	5-star	~CNY 750-1000 / USD 110-150

4. Hangzhou — A City of Romantic Tales

• Highlights: West Lake boat ride, wea plantations, lakeside walks, classical gardens

The most famous attraction of Hangzhou is the West Lake, with many ancient temples and pagodas built nearby. You can have an elegant and relaxing boat ride on the lake. Or you can take a walk on the Su Causeway and feel the gentle breeze blowing from the West Lake.

The poetic Jiangnan scenery also witnesses a lot of romantic stories, together making Hangzhou a perfect destination for a honeymoon tour.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Take a walk or cycle around the West Lake and take a West Lake cruise.
• Pray forblessings at Lingyin Temple.
• Stroll through Hefang Street together and see daily Hangzhou life.

Recommended Romantic Stays

The most scenic and romantic place to stay is near the West Lake.

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Four Seasons Hotel	5-star	~CNY 2500-5500/~ USD 370-810
Grand Hyatt	5-star	~CNY 1700-2500/~ USD 250-370
Hilton Garden Inn	4-star	~CNY 670-1400/~ USD 100-205

5. Huangshan — Above-the-Clouds Wonderland

• Highlights: sea of clouds, sunrise peaks, hiking trails, ancient villages, cliff scenery

Most people go to Huangshan for the Yellow Mountain. It is one of China’s most famous mountains, with breathtaking scenery, misty peaks, ancient pine trees, and, most importantly, climbing it is like taking a challenging journey to a fairy and beautiful world covered in clouds.

Take your love’s hand, watch the sunrise and the sea of clouds, this experience can be one-in-a-lifetime and so unforgettable.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Watch the sunrise from Bright Summit Peak
• Soak in the hot springs of Huangshan
• Take a quiet moment at West Sea Grand Canyon

Recommended Romantic Stays

Most visitors would choose to stay either in the mountain scenic area or near Hongcun village.

 

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Xihai Hotel	5-star	~CNY 1100-1800 / USD 160-265
Banyan Tree Huangshan (悦榕庄)	5-star	~CNY 2000-4000 / USD 290-590
Hongcun Pine Residence (松居森林度假树屋)	3-star	~CNY 400-1300 / USD 60-190

6. Xiamen: The Romantic “Garden on the Sea”

• Highlights: Gulangyu Island, seaside cafes, ocean cycling,

Xiamen is a colorful coastal city. Many couples come here to enjoy the beautiful ocean views. You can walk through Xiamen’s old streets, which have many beautiful Western-style houses and gardens on both sides.

Don’t forget to spend some days on Gulangyu Island, which is famous for its seaside beauty, flowers, and unparalleled sunshine. It’s a completely pedestrian-only place, so slow down your pace, take a stroll to fully enjoy the island’s relaxing vibe. There’s even a Piano Museum where you can see over 100 pianos of different kinds.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Visit the Piano Museum, Shuzhuang Garden, and Sunlight Rock on Gulangyu Island
• Stroll along Huandao Road, feel the city’s everyday rhythm

Recommended Romantic Stays

Staying on Gulangyu Island provides the best experience.

 

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Conrad Xiamen	5-star	~CNY 1500-2000 / USD 220-290
Gulangyu Linshifu Mansion (林氏府公馆酒店)	5-star	~CNY 1500-3000 / USD 220-440

7. Suzhou — Timeless Garden Beauty

Highlights: classical gardens, canal boats, stone bridges, tea houses

Suzhou is a culturally-rich city, and while walking in its old streets and alleys, you’ll sense the poetic and delicate vibe everywhere, especially in its gardens (like The Humble Administrator’s Garden).

Waterways and temples are also what make Suzhou beautiful, such as Xiyuan Temple and the small river in Shantang Road. Suzhou invites you to really step into the beautiful world depicted in traditional Chinese paintings.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Shoot a couple’s portrait session in a garden setting.
• Take a boat cruise on the river in Shantang Road or along the ancient canal.

Recommended Romantic Stays

There are some hotels set inside the Su-style Gardens. They are the most unique and atmospheric stays.

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Huajiantang Tanhuafu (花间堂·探花府)	5-star	~CNY 1000-1500 / USD 150-220
Songmaoju (松茂居)	5-star	~CNY 1500-5000 / USD 220-740

8. Beijing — Imperial Grandeur Meets Hidden Charm

• Best for: Culture-seeking couples
• Highlights: Forbidden City, Great Wall sunset, Hutongs, Summer Palace, Houhai nights

Talking about Beijing, you may instantly think of the serious historical sites and the city’s grand imperial past. So where’s the romantic part?

Well, although it is not a typical romantic destination for many people, if you’re willing to slow down your pace, you’ll catch a sense of romance that particularly belongs to Beijing. It lies in a stroll in the Forbidden City, a sunset at the Great Wall and a visit to the traditional Hutongs.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Choose a Qing-dynasty outfit and take photos in the Forbidden City
• Enjoy a peaceful night in a bar at Houhai
• Take a rickshaw ride in the Hutong
• Climb the Great Wall together

Recommended Romantic Stays

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Yihe Hotel (颐和宾馆)	5-star	~CNY 5000-7000 / USD 730-1030
Puxuan Hotel (璞瑄酒店)	5-star	~CNY 2500-3500 / USD 370-515
Waldorf Astoria Hotel	5-star	~CNY 3000-4000 / USD 440-590

9. Chengdu — Slow Life & Flavor City

• Highlights: Giant pandas, hotpot culture, tea houses, relaxed pace

It’s not easy for people to find another place that possesses a similar laid-back atmosphere, ancient culture, and delicious Sichuan cuisine like Chengdu. Life in this city goes on in a truly slow-paced and relaxing way.

You can visit the adorable pandas and taste the spicy local flavors, but don’t miss the chance to sit in a small tea house, best in Renmin Park or Kuanzhai Alley. Do enjoy every sip of the tea and watch the day slowly passing by, the laughter and chats of locals never stop in the surroundings.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Visit pandas in the Chengdu Research Base of Pandas.
• Spend a relaxing afternoon in tea houses
• Enjoy the classic Sichuan hot pot.

Recommended Romantic Stays

If your travel focuses on a panda visit, then it’s better to stay near the panda research base; if not, try to stay closer to the city center.

 

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Atour S Hotel (IFS Branch)	4-star	~CNY 600-900 / USD 90-130
Upper House Hotel (Temple House)	5-star	~CNY 2500-7000 / USD 370-1030

10. Kanas & Hemu — Real-Life Fairytale Landscape

• Highlights: Wooden villages, forest valleys, alpine lakes, autumn colors, horse riding

Kanas and Hemu village (within Kanas Nature Reserve) are in North Xinjiang. The whole area is an untouched wonderland, with an incredibly astonishing natural landscape. That’s why people call it “The backyard of God”.

You can travel through forests, embrace the view around Kanas Lake, run freely on the vast grassland, and live in a cabin that seems to only exist in fairy tales. To make it even more romantic, ride the horses with your partner under the stretching snow mountains.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Go to the Fish Watching Platform to embrace the panoramic view of Kanas Lake
• Take a walk in the birch forest in Hemu village.
• If visiting in winter, try skiing and horse-drawn arba sleighs glide

Recommended Romantic Stays

It’s recommended to stay within the Kanas Nature Reserve. Although not always equipped with the top facilities, they provide a more authentic and unique experience.

Best Hotels include:

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Parking Stay Hotel (停泊stay hotel)	4-star	~CNY 900-1200 / USD 130-175
Kanas Anyu Hidden World Homestay (安遇隐世民宿)	4-star	~CNY 800-1300 / USD 120-180

 

11. Jiangnan Water Towns (Wuzhen, Xitang or Nanxun)— Lantern Glow & Canal Dreams

• Highlights: Canal night views, stone bridges, lantern streets, riverside inns, boat rides

Jiangnan water towns are the best places to look for a Chinese-style romance, which has already melted into people’s daily life and the old-time architecture. Water is the heart of the towns. It not only creates a tranquil and relaxing vibe, but also provides a perfect chance for you to take a boat ride.

It’ll be amazing to walk slowly down the old street of Flagstone Road after dark, when all those ancient bridges and houses are lit by warm lantern lights.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Walk down the ancient lanes and see traditional Jiangnan architecture
• Take a boat ride along the canals
• Try local snacks and dishes at cozy riverside restaurants

Recommended Romantic Stays

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Xitang Voco Hotel (烟雨江南酒店)	5-star	~CNY 600-2000 / USD 90-290
Wuzhen Dishang Resort Hotel (堤上度假酒店)	5-star	~CNY 1300-2900 / USD 190-430
Nanxun Youshe Homestay (南浔囿舍民宿)	4-star	~CNY 600-1000 / USD 90-150

12. Shanghai — Neon Skyline & Luxury Nights

• Highlights: Bund skyline, rooftop bars, fine dining, luxury hotels, river cruise

Shanghai is a world-renowned, prosperous city, and it’s the best place to have a luxurious tour. Besides walking down the old streets with colonial-style architecture and the shimmering Bund, you can also enjoy the city’s unparalleled skyline and share a wonderful Michelin-starred meal after a shopping day.

Compared to the natural sites introduced above, Shanghai fulfills all your expectations of traveling lavishly in a metropolis.

Top Things to Do for Couples:

• Explore Shanghai’s iconic sites like the Bund and Zhujiajiao water town
• Arrange a romantic date at Shanghai Disneyland
• Customize a suit and a cheongsam for each other

Recommended Romantic Stays

Hotel	Star Rating	Price Range
Blossom House Shanghai (花间堂·愉园)	5-star	~CNY 1100-2300 / USD 160-340
Okura Garden Hotel (上海花园饭店)	5-star	~CNY 900-2200 / USD 130-320
SAVHE Hotel Shanghai World Expo	5-star	~CNY 800-1800 / USD 120-265

How to Plan Your Romantic Tour in China

China has many romantic destinations that are suitable for a honeymoon trip. Generally, couples who want a comfortable romantic escape that covers at least two or three cities would stay for 7-10 days. 12-14 days provides a deeper exploration of China’s nature, culture, and city life.

Sample Itinerary 1: Classic Romance in China (10 Days)

• Days 1-3:Beijing -Begin your journey in one of the most famous and historically-rich city. Take a stroll along the Great Wall at sunset with your partner and immerse yourselves in Beijing’s imperial landmarks and old-time vibe.
• Days 4-6:Hangzhou – After seeing the beauty of the north, you can fly straight to the south to enjoy the peaceful scenery of West Lake. Here you can learn the thousands-year-old tea culture, and relax in a lakeside hotel.
• Days 7-10: Sanya -End your journey with beachside serenity in the “Oriental Hawaii.” Here you can not only enjoy the beauty of the sea, but also join all sorts of water activities. Don’t forget to have a seaside candlelight dinner.

Sample Itinerary 2: Nature and Culture Escape (12 Days)

• Days 1-3: Chengdu -Start your China tour in “the land of abundance”. Here you can meet adorable pandas, enjoy some of the most iconic Chinese foods, and experience the charming and relaxing local vibe in the alleys and streets.
• Days 4-7: Dali -Discover the beauty of ethnic culture, and in Dali, you’ll hear a lot of the Bai ethnic group’s stories. Taking a boat ride on Erhai Lake would be extremely rewarding, and consider staying at a lakeside boutique inn.
• Days 8-12: Guilin & Yangshuo -Popular activities that people usually go with their partner include cruising along the Li River and cycling through the karst countryside. Everywhere is surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Get Your Romantic Escape with China Xian Tour

Looking for a romantic tour with your partner? Well, China surely won’t let you down. No matter what kind of experiences you want: natural, cultural, or a pure city life exploration, you’ll get it in different Chinese cities.

For an unmatched travel experience, China Xian Tour is here, ready to arrange all details for you. And if this is gonna a honeymoon tour, don’t hesitate, our professional guide will make sure everything goes smoothly and happily, and romance is always the core theme.

FAQs about the Best Honeymoon Places in China

What is the average cost of a luxury honeymoon in China?

Well, it’s hard to give an accurate answer, since the cost is based on where you go and how many days you spend there; however, I can give you a brief reference. Take Beijing as an example, which is already a rather expensive city.

• Stay: If you decide to stay in the top luxurious hotels, it’ll cost around CNY 1,000-2,000 (USD 150-300).
• Transportation: Assume you’ll visit the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace. Transportation can cost about CNY 500 (USD 70) by taxi and CNY 100 (USD 15) by public transportation (for both people).
• Food: Michelin-starred dining price is between CNY 200 – 2,000 (USD 30-290) per person per meal. If you opt for more local restaurants, CNY 300-500 (USD 45-75) is enough for two people to splurge for a day.
• Tickets: Tickets to the attractions may cost another CNY 200 (USD 30) per person per day.

What is the absolute best time of year to visit China for a romantic trip, avoiding extreme weather and major crowds?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are generally the best seasons. They being pleasant days in most regions. Landscapes during this time are also at their most beautiful; most importantly, crowds are smaller compared with major holiday periods.

What are the most scenic places in China for wedding and honeymoon photography?

Guilin, Yunnan, Huangshan, Kanas, West Lake in Hangzhou, and the Jiangnan water towns are among the most photogenic destinations in China.