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What to See and Do
Beijing
The nation's capital boasts an incredible range of fascinating sites and attractions and is home to some of China's best known icons. The Great Wall remains one of the world's biggest ever construction projects, and the 183 acre site of the Forbidden City, so called because public entrance was not allowed for over 500 years, holds the most impressive collection of ancient Chinese architecture in the country. The Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace may be smaller in scale but are no less spectacular.
Guilin
Guilin is situated among some of China's most impressive scenery that has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Towering limestone karsts rise majestically along the banks of the Li River and a day spent cruising from Guilin to Yangshuo passes imposing peaks and traditional cormorant fishermen. Just outside the city is the popular Reed Flute Cave packed with impressive rock formations, whilst the picturesque rice terraces of Longsheng are home to a myriad of colourful villages.
Yellow Mountains, Huangshan
Xian
Historically one of China's most important cities and the start of the Silk Road, Xian today offers far more than just the Terracotta Warriors - although these deservedly rank alongside the Great Wall and Forbidden City as one of China's most dramatic sights. Discovered as recently as 1974, the 6000 figures of warriors and their horses are an incredible spectacle and no doubt a first on any visitor's itinerary when visiting the city. Closer to the centre and also worth a visit are the Big and Little Goose Pagodas and the Shaanxi History Museum, one of the most impressive museums in China.
Yunnan
Less well known than some of China's 32 provinces, Yunnan is incredibly varied and visually stunning. Situated in the western corner of southern China, it is a land of contrasts; from the waterfalls and cliffs of the famed Tiger Leaping Gorge to the plateaux of Zhongdian (Shangri-La) and the start of Tibet. The narrow cobbled alleys of Lijiang Old Town are a photographer's dream. Set within a picturesque valley, the traditional buildings and grey tiled roofs seem to stretch forever. Yunnan is home to a number of ethnicities who have helped shape the culture and flavour of this province.
Shanghai
A vast and incredible city at the very forefront of China's march through the 21st-century. Glittering skyscrapers tower over an impressive network of elevated roadways and yet locals still wake early to practice the ancient art of Tai Chi on the European-styled Bund. Here the contrasts of modern China are particularly evident. Explore the sights, cruise the Huangpu River and enjoy memorable dining experiences in some of China's most progressive and innovative restaurants.
Tibet
A mythical land, only relatively recently re-opened to visitors, Tibet is an incredible place. Its harsh location, 4,000 5,000 metres above sea level and hemmed in by the majestic Himalayas, has lead to one of its more popular monikers The Roof of the World. Snow-capped peaks rise from grassy plateaux yet it is predominantly the cities that draw visitors and pilgrims from miles around. Traditionally home to the Dalai Lamas, the holy city of Lhasa boasts some incredible architectural wonders including the impressive Potala Palace and Jokhang temple.
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