China
 As the world's third largest country and the most populated, the diversity of landscapes, history and culture is immense. A few of the many highlights are the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square in Beijing.The spectacular rock formations of Bingyu and the city of Shenyang in the Northeast.
The Karakorum Highway once part of the Silk Route is worth travelling along for the breathtaking scenery. If you have time the journey to Tibet is rewarded with stunning views of the Tibetan Plateau and its magnificent capital Lhasa.
Kids will love watching one of the many acrobat troupes, which tour the country performing amazing acrobatics and magic. In Xi'an they will be overwhelmed by the army of over 7000 terracotta warriors uncovered in 1974, one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th Century. Of course if you visit Hong Kong there are many museums and places, which are specially designed for children and families.
The bicycle is widely used and can be hired in most cities and can be great way to get around. Sightseeing while you exercise - shoot the rapids along the Daning River or walk a length of the Great Wall.
Most of us are very familiar with Chinese food; each area of the country has its own specialities and traditional dishes. Try Peking Duck and Mongolian Hotpot in Beijing. Fish and shellfish dishes around Shanghai and the highly spiced dishes in Sichuan. You will be offered Green or Black Tea everywhere, which although it takes getting used to can be very refreshing.
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Where to dance the night away
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Outside the larger cities most restaurants and theatres close by 10pm so if your crave some nightlife head for Hong Kong, Shanghai and Guangzhou where you'll find bars, discos and as much karaoke as you can handle.
Chinese New Year is celebrated with festive parades, dragon dances and fireworks in January or February (according to the lunar calendar). During the fifth lunar month teams from China and around the world compete in the Dragon Boat Race in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is the best place to buy good quality silk, jade and porcelain but you will also find silk in many places throughout the country and if your after unusual but typical Chinese articles like birdcages or goose down jackets look out for the local market or shopping district.
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Language: Mandarin
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Currency: Yaun
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Time: GMT +8
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Climate: Generally summers are hot everywhere but winters vary
depending on the altitude.
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Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Polio, and Typhoid and Yellow Fever
if coming from an infected area. Malaria tablets may be required
depending on area you are visiting.
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UK Tourist Office: 4 Glentworth Street, London, NW1 5PG. Tel:
0171 935 9427
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Visas: Required
Discover China video guide
The Great Wall of China video guide
Call us on 0870 1999 038 for further details
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