Lijiang ancient town in Lijiang, Yunnan province.[Photo provided to China Daily]

7. Shangri-La

Kunming-Lijiang-Hutiaoxia (Tiger Leaping Gorge)-Shangri-La-Deqin-Markam-Zogang-Bomi-Ny-ingchi-Lhasa.

The route features heavenly landscapes, including high-altitude mountains and glaciers, as well as exotic Tibetan elements. It is ideal for self-drive tourists.

Recommended sites: Stone Forest in Kunming; Yulong (Jade Dragon) Snow Mountain and Lijiang ancient town; Potatso National Park in Shangri-La, Yunnan province; the Potala Palace in Lhasa.

8. South China Sea

Sanya-Haikou-Xisha-Dongsha-Nansha-Beibu Gulf.

The route gives visitors a taste of the charm of the South China Sea. Visitors can experience Buddhism, tropical rainforests, and Li and Miao ethnic culture at Betelnut Valley.

Recommended sites: Hainan province's Nanshan cultural tourism zone, Yanoda rain forest cultural tourism zone in Sanya; Qilou old street in Haikou.