China is a rich, vibrant land where traditional culture meets modern technology. The world’s oldest continuous civilisation, China is steeped in 5,000 years of history. China’s diverse landscape and massive population of 1.4 billion people make it a travel destination with something for every visitor. Every province brings a new set of flavours to its cuisine and a new range of beliefs, philosophies and languages to its people – and all of it is ripe for exploration. Here are four things you’ll learn when you visit China:
1. China has the most skyscrapers in the world – more than the US and Japan combined!
When we think of Chinese architecture, we typically imagine ancient temples, not glass and steel skyscrapers! Megacities like Shanghai (pictured), Shenzhen and Beijing are home to some of the world’s tallest buildings. Half of the world’s buildings over 350m in height are located in China! They are a symbol of China’s recent economic development and modernisation efforts.
2. Traditional culture is preserved
Although China has made skyscraper construction and economic development a priority, it hasn’t forgotten its heritage. Traditional Chinese culture and architecture are well-preserved and celebrated. Depending on your interests, you could take part in a traditional tea ceremony, learn to play mahjong, or take a class in calligraphy.
If you’re visiting China during special events like Chinese Spring Festival (also known as Chinese New Year) or the Dragon Boat Festival you’ll learn even more about traditional Chinese culture. Another preservation effort is the work being done to protect the vulnerable species of giant pandas. They have become a symbol of the country, as they are only found in the wild in China, and captivity breeding programs around the world coordinate their efforts with Chinese wildlife experts to save them.
3. The Great Wall lives up to its name
China’s greatest engineering triumph and a must-see for visitors, the Great Wall really is a massive, incredible structure. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not one continuous wall – it’s made up of different sections that were built by various dynasties.
Don’t expect to walk it all, as even just the main section is over 3,400km long. At the Badaling tourist centre, you’ll encounter lots of hawkers and fellow tourists, but there are plenty of other sections you can visit that are less crowded: Simatai is best for steep climbs and beautiful vistas, and Jinshaling is also less developed.
4. Visitors are welcome to The Forbidden City
Another must-see tourist destination is the Forbidden City in Beijing, so-called because people were once forbidden to enter without the permission of the Emperor. For nearly 500 years, it was the Chinese Imperial Palace, from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty (1420-1912). It’s China’s largest and best-preserved collection of ancient buildings and it’s listed by UNESCO.
Don’t miss the Three Great Halls, Imperial Garden, and the Treasure Gallery museums. More than 16 million visitors enter the Forbidden City each year – despite the name, it’s no longer off limits!