Why not exploring one of the oldest civilizations in the world? Yet, at the same time China in one of the fastest growing economies! Your journey can last from winter to summer and take you from Buddhist to Muslim areas without even having to cross borders. This, and much, much more, is China. China's infrastructure makes it - perhaps surprisingly for some - easy to travel around, but you will find that its size alone makes it almost impossible to cover all! But no matter what parts of this fascinating country you choose to explore, you will never forget your trip to China.
Travel to Beijing - China's impressive capital
You can start your journey in the Chinese capital, Beijing. Make to marvel at the impressive buildings Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City. Of course, you should also see Tiananmen Square, one of the world's greatest open spaces along with the summe Palace, magnificent architectural structure located in the most beautiful and peaceful gardens. When you get tired of the crowded tourist magnets, it is advisable to explore some of the city's hutongs, or neighborhoods, teeming with people and buzzing with excitement. You can do this by renting a bicycle, which is also the locals' clearly preferred mode of transportation.
Cruise on the Yangtze
If you want to experience the greatness of China and take in the dramatic mountain scenery of 'The Three Gorges' that surrounds the Yangtze River, then you should take a cruise on the world-famous river, the largest in China. The views along the way are phenomenal and a trip like this is wonderfully relaxing. Hop on in Yichang, hop off in Chongqing and enjoy a few days to "chill" in the fantastic surroundings, here in the wilderness of China.
Shanghai
Shanghai cannot be compared to any other city in China. East meets west in this glittering metropolis. Take a stroll along the river at 'The Bund' and enjoy charming old French colonial buildings on one side, while you on the other side, you will find the restored and modern Pudong district, with eccentric skyscrapers. A few blocks from The Bund, you can find the neon lit shopping street, Nanjing Lu, one of the world's busiest. Remember to visit one of the local markets in this area as well. When you get enough of the hectic city life in Shanghai, go om a multi-day excursion to the gardens of Hangzhou and Suzhou, with Hangzhou's famous West Lake and the tea plantations.
Western China: Greatness and beauty
When you get enough of the densely populated eastern China, the best you can do is to get on one of the comfortable 'soft sleeper' heading west. A train journey like this can take several days and at the same time, you can also visit parts of the historic silk route or the famous Terracotta warriors of Xi'an.
When you follow the Silk Road farther west you will come to the distinctive cities of Urumqi and Turpan, not far from the border with Tibet. For those travellers with a touch of adventure, the area is very tempting and four-wheel drive vehicle tours are on offer. Just make sure to be well prepared when you want to travel in the harsh and sometimes uninhabited areas and dramatic highlands, and you will be met by the sight of the beautiful Potala Palace when approaching Lhasa.
Don’t forget…
To visit rural china! Take a trip to Western China's endless plains and experience an authentic, rustic atmosphere. There is a certain charm in staying in a 'Nong jia le', a simple room that is an extension to a farmer's house - a unique way to get close to this country's people.
If you continue the journey to the southern part of this immense country, you should visit Yangshuo. In this part of China, you can take a boat trip on the Li Jang River or relax in one of the nearby villages, while enjoying the views of the spectacular rock formations that emerge from the lush subtropical rainforest.
And of course, The Great Wall, but you already knew that.