China a Land of Enchantment and Rich History

China is much more than just a country, when you visit China it's like being in a whole different world. The heritage and history of this beautiful country that spans back over 5,000 years, virtually makes it a wonderland for millions of tourists each year!

China offers over 15,000 attractions that range from man made and natural, to spiritual and cultural. With it's desert lands, dramatic mountains and natural rivers and amazing shore lines, China is one of the most popular destinations in East Asia.

There are a vast number of different escorted tours of China available, including several once in a lifetime opportunities. The Great Wall of China stretches from east to west covering about 4,163 miles, winding through valleys and across mountains! The construction began around 600-700 BC and continued for over 2000 years and through 20 dynasties!

The wall is as much as 25 feet high in some areas and is one of the world's largest building projects ever completed. The wall began as a series of sections built by individual states for protection, but was joined together as one wall during the Qin Dynasty.

Many different companies offer a range of tours of China, but it is important to book with one that offers experience as well as local knowledge, which is why Kuoni are one of the most popular companies with UK travellers.

Uncovered in 1974, the Terracotta Warriors are a breathtaking example of the talent of China's artisans! These amazing warriors are over 2000 years old and form a complete life size army along with chariots and horses!

With the painstaking attention given to even the smallest of details, every statue in this extraordinary army is different and unique. Each on has it's own personality that displays a deep sense of pride in China's artisans.

You won't want to miss China's Forbidden City, home to the world's largest palace. Construction of The Forbidden City was begun in 1406 and it served as the home to 24 emperors from the Qing and Ming Dynasties.

Setting in the heart of Beijing, the Palace was erected as a replica of the Purple Palace in Heaven where God lived. The complex holds 90 palaces and courtyards, there are 980 buildings that have 8,704 rooms!

The magnificent architecture is an attraction in itself, but now called the Palace Museum, it contains thousands of historical treasures. There are hundreds of thousands items on display from ceramics, paintings, bronze ware, jade, porcelain and much more!

The mystical paradise of Shangri-La became a reality in 2002, when the Chinese government granted Zhongdian County the permission to officially change it's name! This picturesque little township emits the harmonious tranquility that became so famous in the novel.

Shangri-La's snow capped mountains, beautiful natural lakes and forests have captivated tourists and locals for many years. It was also honoured by becoming the first national park in China.

There are numerous natural rivers, lakes and waterfalls and its vast shoreline is populated with over 5,000 islands! There's something for everyone from bike trails, hiking, mountain climbing, skiing, snowboarding and cave exploration!

With all the different China Toursto choose from, you can truly discover this land of enchantment and experience some of the most beautiful architecture in the world. No one could visit this wonderful country without being affected by its proud sense of history and culture!