6. Beijing Aquarium

The stellar Beijing Aquarium is a worthwhile diversion in the northeastern corner of the Beijing Zoo. On view is an imaginative Amazon rainforest (complete with piranha), coral reefs, a shark aquarium (where you can dive with the flesh eaters), and a marine mammal pavilion. The last hosts lively aquatic animal displays.

This aquarium is home to thousands of fish, turtles and more, including an unforgettable Amazonian Arapaima, and features daily seal and dolphin shows.