Anji Bamboo Museum

Although not the largest bamboo forest in China, Anji is only about a four-hour drive from Shanghai. 

The Anji Bamboo Forest is known by many as the “Bamboo Sea” and it’s not difficult to see why. Around 40 different species of bamboo cover an area of more than 200 square miles.

Bamboo has been important to Chinese culture for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to the Shang Dynasty. The multiple-purpose plant has been used for food, clothing, housing, transportation, musical instruments, and weaponry.

This forest gained international fame when it became the filming location for Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, as well as a host of other films.

The Anji Bamboo Forest is a popular destination during the vacation season, so best to plan accordingly. Visitors can pay to cross a glass walkway that provides amazing views of the forest below. There is also a bobsled-style ride to descend back out of the forest.

Also, be sure to visit the bamboo museum.