China: What To See

Beijing

The political capital, once an imperial palace city, is now a bustling and congested metropolis of 12 million people housing China's best tourist attractions - The Great Wall, Tian An Men Square, the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace.

Xian

This former capital was once the starting point of the legendary Silk Road. It is also home to the famed Terracotta Warriors, built to protect Emperor Qinshihuang in the afterlife.

Suzhou & Hangzhou

These cities, both in close proximity to Shanghai, are two of China's most pleasant and attractive. Hangzhou life centres on the stunningly beautiful West Lake area whilst Suzhou is at the heart of traditional garden architecture in China.

Shanghai

Shanghai grew from a small port town into Asia's 'Paris' in the 1920's and is now a financial centre rivalling Hong Kong and Singapore.

The South West

The provinces of Yunnan and Sichuan boast some of China's most stunning natural scenery. Heavily influenced by their proximity to the Tibetan Plateau they are home to many ethnic minorities with their individual cultures and traditions. Sichuan is also the habitat of the endangered Giant Panda.

Tibet, the "Roof of the World", with its proud and unique people has inspired and attracted travellers for centuries. Lhasa, spiritual home of Buddhism, still retains its allure even as modernisation changes the high plateau's landscape with modern buildings and railways.

Guilin

Limestone peaks and rice paddies as far as the eye can see - this is the China of the classic paintings, best seen on a leisurely cruise on the Li River.

Hainan

China's very own beach resort with a tropical climate, quality resorts and fantastic hinterland.

Hong Kong & Macau

The most 'Western' of all the Chinese cities, Hong Kong is very different from the rest of the country. Nearby Macau retains a strong Portuguese legacy. For more information see the Hong Kong & Macau pages on this site.