National Parks in China for a Refreshing Summer Getaway

When the Summer sun blazes down on bustling cities, you may dream of a refreshing escape surrounded by nature. China has many nice national parks to chill out in the summer. Whether you’re craving alpine lakes, misty mountains, or shaded forests, national parks in China provide the perfect respite for nature lovers and adventurers. Ready for your next China travel adventure? Here’s a guide to cooling down in some of the country’s most breathtaking parks.

1. Why Choose National Parks to Cool Down?

National parks in China are not only about scenic beauty. Parks sit at higher elevations or boast dense forests and crystal-clear lakes can offer you natural air conditioning against the summer heat. Plus, these parks provide opportunities to disconnect from city life. You can recharge your spirit and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and wildlife watching.

2. Top 6 National Parks to Chill Out in Summer

Jiuzhaigou National Park, Sichuan

Jiuzhaigou National Park is a gem famous for its turquoise lakes and multi-tiered waterfalls.  Situated around 2,000 meters above sea level, its cool mountain air and pristine waters make it an ideal summer retreat. The park’s unique karst landscape and rich Tibetan culture add to its allure.

• Best time to visit: June to September for pleasant temperatures and lush greenery.
• How to get there: Fly into Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, then take a 7-hour to 8-hour bus or a short domestic flight to Jiuzhaigou.
• What to bring: Layered clothing, hiking shoes, and a good camera for unforgettable shots.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan

The movie Avatar was inspired by its towering sandstone pillars. The park’s elevation and dense canopy help keep temperatures mild. Make it perfect for summer exploration. You can hike through shaded trails, get on a cable car for panoramic views, or test your nerves on the famous glass bridge spanning the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon.

• Best time to visit: April to October with cool mountain air.
• How to get there: Fly into Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport or take a train/bus from nearby cities such as Changsha.
• What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket (summer showers are common), and a camera to capture the stunning pillars and landscapes.

Changbai Mountain National Nature Reserve, Jilin

Located on the border between China and North Korea. Changbai Mountain National Nature Reserve is a stunning volcanic mountain area famed for its pristine alpine environment and cool climate. The park’s centerpiece is the magnificent Tianchi (Heaven Lake). A crater lake sits at an elevation of about 2,189 meters, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush forests. The breathtaking landscapes make it a peaceful retreat for hikers.

• Best time to visit: June to September for mild weather and full bloom of wildflowers. The cool climate here rarely exceeds 20°C in summer.
• How to get there: Fly into Changchun Longjia International Airport and then take a bus or drive approximately 4–5 hours to the park.
• What to bring: Warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, and a good camera for capturing the lake and mountain vistas.

Yellow Mountain, Anhui

Yellow Mountain is one of China’s most famous and stunning national parks. In Summer, you can enjoy hiking mist-covered trails and watching spectacular sunrises. The scenic beauty has inspired countless Chinese painters and poets throughout history, making it a cultural as well as natural treasure.

• Best time to visit: April to November, with summer offering lush greenery and cooler temperatures.
• How to get there: The nearest airport is Huangshan Tunxi International Airport; buses and taxis connect the airport to the mountain entrance.
• What to bring: Layered clothing for variable temperatures and sturdy shoes.

Kanas Lake National Nature Reserve, Xinjiang

Tucked away in the remote mountains of northern Xinjiang. Kanas Lake National Nature Reserve is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking alpine scenery. Uou can also explore traditional Kazakh and Tuva villages to experience local culture. This is an ideal spot to chill out in summer away from the crowds.

• Best time to visit: June to September for pleasant weather and vibrant natural colors.
• How to get there: Fly into Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, then take a connecting flight or drive about 9–10 hours north to the Kanas area.
• What to bring: Layered clothing, hiking boots and insect repellent.

Potatso National Park, Yunnan

Potatso National Park offers a refreshing escape with its high-altitude meadows. It is located in the scenic Shangri-La region of Yunnan Province. Sitting at around 3,300 meters above sea level. The park enjoys cool temperatures throughout the summer, making it an ideal destination to chill out while exploring stunning Tibetan-influenced landscapes.

• Best time to visit: June to September, when the weather is mild and the flora is in full bloom.
• How to get there: Fly into Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, then take a 2-hour to 3-hour drive to the park near Shangri-La town.
• What to bring: Warm layered clothing, sturdy shoes and sunscreen.

3. How to Plan Your Trip

Planning a trip to China’s national parks requires a bit of preparation to make the most of your refreshing summer getaway. Here are some tips to help you organize a smooth and enjoyable adventure.

• Choose a Nice Time to Visit: Most of China’s national parks are best visited between June and September. Avoid the crowds by aiming for early mornings or weekdays. You can even consider months like May or October for fewer crowds.
• Decide Which Parks to Visit: China is vast, so it can be based on your interests. For alpine lakes and Tibetan culture, Jiuzhaigou or Potatso are nice options. For iconic rock formations and forests, Zhangjiajie and Yellow Mountain are a must. If you want volcanic landscapes, head to Changbai Mountain.
• Book Your Transportation: Most parks are accessible via nearby regional airports. Booking flights early can save costs. From airports or major cities, you’ll often need to take buses, taxis, or arrange private transfers to the park entrances. Some parks also have shuttle buses inside.
• Reserve Accommodation: Book your stay well in advance, especially during summer and holidays. Staying closer to the park allows you to enjoy early morning and late afternoon activities in cooler temperatures.
• Prepare Your Bag: Pack smart for varying weather. Mountain temperatures can be cool even in summer. Bring layered clothing, sturdy walking shoes, rain protection, sunblock, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
• Check Park Regulations and Permits: Some parks may require entrance tickets or permits, especially during peak season. Check official park websites or chat with us for the latest information.

China’s national parks offer some of the best natural escapes to chill out in summer. Planning your China travel around these incredible parks means more than just beating the heat. Ready to plan your perfect summer escape? Chat with our travel consultant today to customize your trip and secure the best deals for an unforgettable adventure in China’s coolest national parks!