The Chinese New Year is literally just around the corner (23 Jan 2012) and with this in mind we thought we would take you on a whistle-stop tour of China presenting you with some of the reasons why you should consider an escorted tour to this magical yet mystical location in the world. From towering temples to tranquil lakes, bustling cities to peaceful paddy fields and tempting delicacies – there’s something for everyone on escorted tours to China. Take a look at what we’ve come up with below and if you’ve holidayed here before, let us know of your experiences…
Reason 1 – The Forbidden City
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, The Forbidden City is located in
the centre of Beijing directly north of Tianamen Square. Here is where the famous portrait of Mao Zedong hangs on the palatial crimson wall. This was the imperial seat for Ming and Qing, dynasty emperors from 1420 until 1912 when the last emperor, Pu Yi, abdicated. Did you know that The Forbidden City got its name because it was off-limits to most of the world for 500 years and is the best preserved cluster of ancient buildings in China? As you explore, you’ll come across lush gardens, elegant courtyards, pavilions and great halls of the Palace. Be set to be amazed on China tours!
Reason 2 – The Great Wall
When you think of China, one major sight enters the mind and that is The Great Wall which covers approx. 5500 miles across the country and was constructed over 2000 years ago. Did you know that the Great Wall is actually made up of interconnecting walls spanning China that different dynasties and warlords constructed over the years? The Great Wall attracts 1000s of visitors per day and is one of the most iconic sights in China and various sections of the Wall can be explored. Here’s something you might not know about The Great Wall, 180 million cubic metres of rammed earth was used to form the core of the original wall, and legend has it that one of the building materials used was the bones of deceased workers!
Reason 3 – Giant Pandas and Chengdu
It is recommended to head out to Chengdu to get a taste of Sichuan and to gauge
an in-depth understanding of the Giant Pandas at the Breeding Research Base. Here you’ll find a huge park dedicated to the Giant Pandas where you can find the nursery, cub, adolescent and adult enclosures as well as opportunities to see the Red Panda and other endangered species in China. The Chengdu Research base of Giant Panda Breeding also houses a museum, research centre, restaurant and large lake to stroll around after you’ve learnt all there is to know about Pandas!
Reason 4 – The Terracotta Warriors
The arrival of the Terracotta Army at the British Museum in the UK was a major
attraction during 2007-2008 and pulled in many visitors but what would it be like to see this magnificent masterpiece in its home country? It is said that going to China and not seeing the Terracotta Army is like going to Egypt and missing the Pyramids! Did you know that The Terracotta Army itself was discovered in 1974 when some farmers were digging a well? Their digging unearthed a huge burial pit belonging to the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. It is estimated that the tomb took 38 years to build between 247 BC and 208 BC. There are three pits to view on visiting the Terracotta Army located just outside of Xi’An. Pit One is the largest and has had the most restoration completed where you can see the columns of soldiers followed by war chariots.
Reason 5 – Paradise On Earth
For pure tranquillity, you can do no wrong with a visit to Hangzhou affectionately known by the locals as ‘paradise on
earth’. Should you wish to avoid the bustling cities of the major towns/cities of China, you’ll achieve it in Hangzhou. The area is dominated by the West Lake (Xi Hu) which sits in the centre of the city surrounded by ancient temples and gardens. Did you know that within the Lake itself, there are many islands to visit via a causeway that’s perfect for rambling or taking cycle tours to explore further. As you know, China itself is famous for its tea and Long Jing or Dragon Well Tea comes from the hills in Hangzhou. Why not sample some of the many varieties in open-air Tea Houses that line the roadside? The best time to visit Hangzhou is during the months of Spring and Autumn. Summer can be very hot and humid here making sightseeing and exploring a little uncomfortable.
Have you ever experience the Chinese New Year whilst holidaying in China? Or have you celebrated it in London? We’d love to hear from you so please get in touch!