Breakaway Destination Guides (International)

Breakaway’s Travel World

A Guide to Golden Lands and Faraway Places

Golden Lands, Asia Guides
China Side map
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It a good idea to check out the wine of the area
Destination Summery
The sheer diversity of China's terrain takes you from noisy cities pulsing with energy to isolated mountain-top Ming-Dynasty villages where you can hear a pin drop.
Beijing (Peking)
Has been China's capital for 300 years, under the Mongols and Manchu Emperors and today of the peoples Republic of China. The Forbidden City, Summer Palace and the temple of Heaven are popular sights as are the art and antique stores. A journey to the legendary Great Wall which meanders over 2000 miles across the China landscape is a never to be forgotten experience.
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Forbidden City - Beijing
Xian:
Located in Shaanxi Province, is the cradle of Chinese civilization - inhabited since 60200Bc. The greatest sight here is the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi and his Terra-cotta Worriers and Horses. Other sights include Ban Po Neolithic Village, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Mosque, Bell Tower and the Hua Quinq Hot Springs. For journeys spending three nights in the city the chance to visit the Queen's tombs in the mountains is a new and fascinating experience.
Shanghai
Is cosmopolitan, famous for its fine arts, entertainment and crafts as well as being an important commercial centre. Former occupation by Foreign powers is reflected in Shanghai's architecture, particularly on the 'Bund' road which runs along the busy Huangpu River. Visits include the Emperor's Garden, Old City and Art Museum as well as a stroll along the Bund.
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Shanghai skyline
Hangchow (Hangzhou):
Is situated at the southern extreme of the Grand Canal and has a history of 2000 years. Artists since the Tang Dynasty (618-907) have been charmed by the scenic beauty of the West Lake, a glistening mirror of water surrounded on three sides by wooded hills, with islands and inner lakes linked by zigzag bridges and abundant terraces, pavilions and pagodas.
Soochaw (Suzhou):
The 'Venice of the East' is famed for its gardens, silks, fine crafts and situated on the Grand Canal. The extensive network of canals offer a fascinating insight into the way the city's inhabitants live and work. Sightseers should try to include the beautifully designed walled gardens, Tiger Hill, North Temple Pagoda and a visit to the National Embroidery Institute, as well as a cruise along the Grand Canal.
Wushi (Wuxi):
Located on the banks of lake Tai Hu and the Grand Canal. Pagodas, canals and cobbled streets gives this 2000 year old city a distinctive character. Silk production has long been important to the city and there are now 500 factories established. Any sightseer should include a visit to a silk factory and shop.
Nanking (Nanjing):
Once the national capital. Nanking dates back to the eight century. Nestled on the Yangtze River basin, one of the highlights is to visit the huge double tier Yangtze bridge as well as the Lotus Lake and mausoleum of Sun Yat Sen.
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Nanking at night
Guilin (Kweillin):
Has a remarkable topography of Karst (limestone) hills and emerald fields. All of which are visible from the Li River. Guilin scenic delights have been immortalized through history by painters, poets and singers.
Canton (Guangzhou):
Is a vast commercial city on the banks of the Pearl River. This bustling city has many parks and gardens and sightseeing includes the Sun Yat Sen memorial, Temple of the Banyan trees and Xuexiu Park.
China "To cultivate trees, you need 10 years. To cultivate people, you need 100 years."
Asian Guides
 
Golden Lands, China Guide