China

China

China is a land of immense cultural wealth with both ancient treasures and modern architecture in abundance.  Home to over 1.3 billion people, China is the most populous country in the world. 

The endless list of the country’s tourist attractions includes 99 famous national historical and cultural cities, 750 national cultural sites under key protection and 119 major scenic resorts and sites of historical and cultural interest.

Beijing, Xian, Nanjing, Luoyang, Kaifeng, Hangzhou and Anyang are the seven ancient capitals of China and are worth exploring.  Each city offers something different and a new opportunity to learn about China’s rich past.

China is home to a staggering 37 UNESCO World Heritage sites.  These include the Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing, Xian’s Terracotta Army and the traditional Suzhou gardens.

Beijing is the capital city and showcases both ancient and cosmopolitan architecture.  Home to the Forbidden City, the world’s largest public square and a 15th century Temple of Heaven, Beijing draws tourists from all over the world.  Since hosting the Olympic games in 2008, Beijing has been constantly evolving and modernising.     

Shanghai is China’s largest city and the main business and commercial hub.  Skyscrapers and modern architecture give the city a contemporary feel, while the art deco laneways, European-style Bund waterfront and ancient Chinese garden make this stand out from the rest.
   
China is a wonderfully unique country with so much to offer the enthusiastic tourist.  Sightseers and anyone with an interest in culture and history will fall in love with this intriguing country. 

 Forbidden City
While visiting Beijing, explore China’s best surviving historical site.  Officially the Palace Museum, it was home to emperors Ming and Qing for 500 years.  Visitors can now admire the beautiful halls, palaces and gardens within.   

Great Wall
Built over 2,000 years ago, this ancient wall stretches over 5,400km.  Take a cable car at Mutianya up to the wall and bobsled down.  Alternatively, if you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, there is a 5km steep route for hiking on the Simati section.

Terracotta Army
Xian’s Terracotta Army is a must-see.  This spectacular display of 6,000 ancient life-sized warriors and horses will amaze all ages.

Natural Attractions
China has endless beautiful countryside to explore.  There are a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites including Mount Taishan mountain park, foggy Huangshan Mountain, Buddhist mountain Emei Shan and Jiuzhaigou Valley's lakes and waterfalls. 

Shopping
Shanghai, Beijing and the other large cities have massive department stores selling everything from designer fashions to high-tech goods.  Markets are popular in China and haggling comes with the territory.  These are great for picking up souvenirs such as local handicrafts, antique ceramics and silk clothing.  

Dining
Chinese food is recognised all over the world and the Chinese people take great pride in their cooking.  Wherever you go you are sure to come across quality traditional restaurants as well as international eateries.

Nightlife
Shanghai and Beijing have world-class nightlife with an array of international restaurants, bars, cocktail lounges, live music venues and nightclubs.  For a more cultural evening, visit the Chinese opera, ballet, circus or theatre.