Chongqing

Crisscrossed by shimmering rivers and blanketed by verdant mountains, the municipality of Chongqing is endowed with an ethereal beauty. Even its name, which literally translates to mean “Double-Blessed”, is a testament to its superlative qualities. Like the municipalities of Beijing, Tianjin, and Shanghai, the region is centred on the city of Chongqing, a bustling metropolis and the largest inland port in western China. During the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945), it served as China’s provisional capital and has been rapidly expanding ever since. Its many nicknames, from the “Fog Capital” to the “Hilly City”, demonstrate how, in spite of constant modernization, the city’s character is very much rooted in its natural surroundings.

Originally the city of Chongqing was under the administration of Sichuan province, but it was separated and designated a municipality in 1997. Although it continues to border Sichuan to the west, the municipality is so large that it also borders the provinces of Shaanxi to the north, Hubei to the east, Hunan to the southeast, and Guizhou to the south. The city can be found in the southwestern part of the municipality, while the northeast is dominated by the Yangtze River Valley and the southeast is a wonderland of rolling hills. Karst Mountains, stone forests, limestone caves, and the magnificent Three Gorges add a touch of magic to the region’s topography.

Chongqing is served by an intensely humid subtropical climate, with notoriously long summers that are among the hottest in China. This humidity is so legendary that, alongside Wuhan and Nanjing, it is affectionately known as one of China’s “Three Furnaces”! During the brief, two-month-long winter, temperatures average at a mild 8 °C (47 °F), but from May through to September summer lays siege to the region and temperatures can regularly exceed 38 °C (100 °F). From October to April, the city is perpetually shrouded in fog, which has earned it the nickname the “Fog Capital”.

Although the city itself is now highly modernised, it still features a handful of relics from its historic past. Among these, the most fascinating are arguably the Great Hall of the People and the Joseph Stilwell Museum. With its stately dome and stark resemblance to Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, the Great Hall of the People is an architectural wonder not to be missed. The hall is predominantly used to host political meetings and cultural events, while the outdoor People’s Square is a paved area where open-air performances are regularly staged.

Contrary to this traditional Chinese establishment, the Joseph Stilwell Museum is a colonial building that once served as the residence of General Joseph W. Stilwell, who headed American operations in China during the Second World War. It was eventually converted into a museum, with the first floor decked out in period furniture and the ground floor featuring exhibits about the war itself.

However, if you want to experience all that this municipality has to offer, you’ll have to venture outside the confines of the city. To begin with, it boasts two magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Dazu Rock Carvings and the Wulong Karst National Geology Park. The Dazu Rock Carvings are located in Dazu County, approximately 60 kilometres (37 mi) west of Chongqing City, and comprise a treasure trove of Chinese religious sculptures dating as far back as the 7th century. The attraction is formally made up of 75 protected sites containing some 50,000 statues, along with over 100,000 Chinese inscriptions. Having been influenced by Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, it represents a hectic mixture of spiritual iconography.

While the Dazu Rock Carvings are a masterpiece of human creation, the Wulong Karst Geology Park proves that Mother Nature will always be the greater artist. It can be roughly separated into three major areas: the Three Natural Bridges, the Qingkou Tiankeng Scenic Area, and Furong Cave. The enchanting karst landscape, dense forests, and unusual rock formations make this colossal park a haven for nature lovers.

Yet it seems the mountains of Chongqing are hiding a sinister secret! Located on Mount Ming, about 160 kilometres (100 mi) from the city centre, you’ll find the spectacularly spooky Fengdu Ghost City. Designed after the Gate of Hell in traditional Chinese folklore, this huge temple complex is dedicated entirely to the afterlife. From grotesque statues to gruesome dioramas, this fascinating site shows any unfortunate visitor just what punishments await them should they find themselves in hell.

After such a traumatic experience, you’ll be craving a little relaxation! Fortunately Chongqing’s suburban districts are famed for their luxurious resorts and spas, where visitors can bathe in hot springs, swim in Olympic-sized pools, or wander through charming flower gardens. Nanwenquan Park and Beiwenquan Park are two of the most popular, although Beiwenquan reigns supreme since its bathing areas are reputedly warm in winter but cool in summer. So, no matter what time of year you visit Chongqing, you know you’ll be guaranteed a good soak!

 

Hubei Province

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Lying at the very heart of central China, Hubei province forms a large part of the middle basin of the Yangtze River. Even its name, which means “North of the Lake” in reference to its position north of Dongting Lake, is derived from a body of water and demonstrates just how important these natural wonders are to the province. You could almost say locals in Hubei are used to the life aquatic! Alongside its scenic beauty, Hubei’s central location means that its provincial capital of Wuhan has risen to become one of China’s major transport, commercial, and cultural hubs. Historically it was known as “the thoroughfare of nine provinces”, since it is the largest inland port in the country.

ShennongjiaThe province itself is made up primarily of vast mountainous regions and flat alluvial plains. It benefits from a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are short but can be particularly bitter when the north winds hit, with temperatures oscillating between 4 °C (40 °F) and 6 °C (43 °F). The summers are long and swelteringly hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 29 °C (85 °F). The relatively high humidity can make the summers somewhat oppressive, especially during the night. Summer in Wuhan is notoriously unbearable, with punishing temperatures of 40 °C (104 °F) and above. The best times to travel in Hubei are during spring and autumn, which are both comfortable and sunny seasons.

The high profile Three Gorges Dam is located in the west of the province, positioned in Xiling Gorge of the magnificent Three Gorges. This colossal water control project was designed to provide water conservation, flood control, and hydroelectric power by utilising the powerful current of the Yangtze River. It represents the largest hydropower project in the world and is now a surprisingly popular tourist attraction, where visitors can marvel at the dam’s impressive size and learn all about how it works. However, this gigantic undertaking came with an equally large price. The dam has actually caused irrevocable damage to much of the natural scenery, and many scientists have complained that the ends simply didn’t justify the means.

three-gorgesNowadays visitors can also navigate the Three Gorges conveniently by riding one of the many tourist boats that travel up the Yangtze River from Yichang into neighbouring Chongqing Municipality. While Xiling Gorge is famed for its spectacular rocky peaks, Qutang Gorge boasts scenic landscapes and Wu Gorge is resplendent with forests and mountains, all wreathed in an ethereal mist. Three may be the magic number, but choosing which of these three gorges to explore will feel like a trial!

Although Hubei is undoubtedly a water wonderland, its mountains are no less magnificent. The Wudang Mountains have been a site of natural and cultural significance for centuries, and were made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. This small mountain range may not seem terribly impressive, but its home to a world-renowned complex of Taoist temples and monasteries that are all dedicated to the god Xuan Wu.

The oldest extant building on the mountain is the shimmering Golden Hall, which was constructed entirely of gilded copper and dates back to 1416. Many of the other temples are technically much older but had to be rebuilt or refurbished over time, such as the Five Dragons Temple, which was originally built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). While the Shaolin Temple in Henan province is heralded as the birthplace of Chinese Kung-fu, the Wudang Mountains are celebrated as the origin of Tai Chi.

Alongside the Wudang Mountains, the Shennongjia Nature Reserve was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 and ranks as one of the finest scenic areas in Hubei province. It is home to numerous rare species of animals and plants, including the giant salamander and the golden snub-nosed monkey. The park itself is named after a legendary deity in Chinese mythology known as Shennong, who is believed to be one of the ancient ancestors of the Chinese people. He supposedly invented crockery, discovered herbal medicine, and taught people how to cultivate the land. According to local legend, he poisoned himself over 70 times while tasting herbs in Shennongjia to test their medicinal properties.

With such an otherworldly background, it should come as no surprise that the Shennongjia Nature Reserve is rumoured to hide a mythical creature within its depths! The yeren or “Wild Man” has long been said to stalk the forested hills of the park, acting as a sort of Chinese equivalent to North America’s Bigfoot. The reserve is also supposedly home to an unusual number of albino animals, including white bears, white squirrels, white deer, and white crows. So be sure to keep your camera handy; you never know when you might be treated to an extraordinary sight!

Fairy-tales and legends abound in Hubei province, even in its provincial capital. Yellow Crane Tower, which is located in Wuhan, was reputedly the place where an immortal named Wang Zi’an rode away from Snake Mountain on a yellow crane. The tower was built later to commemorate this story, and is considered one of the Four Great Towers of China. Although it was originally built in 223 AD, it has been rebuilt several times and now boasts a number of modern features, including an elevator. It may not be as fun as riding a yellow crane, but it certainly makes ascending the tower much easier!

Liaoning Province

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Liaoning is often regarded as something of an “outsider” when compared to other provinces in China. Although nowadays its population is dominated by the Han Chinese, this region frequently found itself under non-Han rule throughout the course of history. Whether it was the Khitans of the Liao Dynasty (907–1125), the Jurchens of the Jin Dynasty (1115–1234), or the Mongolians of the Mongol Empire, Liaoning was passed around between different ethnic groups faster than a hot potato! It even formed part of several Korean kingdoms, such as Gojoseon, Goguryeo, and Balhae. In particular, it played a focal role as the main political centre from which the Manchu people of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) conquered the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

On the collapse of the Qing Dynasty, Liaoning soon found itself embroiled in yet another power struggle! During the early 20th century, it was occupied by Russia and Japan, who both contributed to the development of heavy industry in the region. Nowadays this mingling of numerous ethnic influences can be seen in Liaoning’s cosmopolitan nature, which sets it apart from many other provinces in China. From the ruins of the Goguryeo imperial capital on Wunü Mountain to the Japanese- and Russian-style architecture in the port city of Dalian, the effect of foreign cultures is clearly palpable throughout the province.

The province itself is located in a northeastern region of China that was formerly known as Manchuria. Since it is bounded by North Korea to the east, the Yellow Sea to the south, and Inner Mongolia to the northwest, it is sometimes referred to as the “Golden Triangle” because of its strategic trading location. The Liao River, which flows through the centre of the province, is where the name “Liaoning” is derived. When literally translated, the name means “Peace on the Liao”, which hints at the province’s turbulent past. Geographically, it can be divided into four main regions: the central plains, the Liaodong Peninsula, the western highlands, and the eastern mountainous zone.

Its varied topography means that Liaoning’s climate suffers from extremes, which depend on the proximity to the coast. On average, the temperature oscillates from a comfortable 23 °C (74 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F) in summer, but drops to a chilly −5 °C (23 °F) to −12 °C (10 °F) in winter. Summer rainfall is usually torrential, but there is a marked lack of rain in spring. Its mild weather makes it the ideal rest-stop for migrating birds, which annually flock to a nature reserve on Mount Laotie during the autumn. Thousands of birds from over 200 different species take refuge here every year, making it a haven for bird-watching.

Benxi Water CaveIn fact, Liaoning boasts a plethora of gorgeous natural attractions, including the Benxi Water Cave National Park and the Qianshan National Park. The Benxi Water Cave is the largest water cave in Asia and contains a 3-kilometre-long (1.8 mi) underground river, which is supposedly so clear that the riverbed is always visible. Visitors can take a scenic boat ride along the river and admire the many strange rock formations within the cave, or spend the day exploring the numerous other areas in the national park, such as misty Mount Tiecha and the lush Tanggou Valley.

WUNV MOUNTAINSimilarly, Qianshan National Park is centred on the celebrated Qianshan Mountains. The name “Qianshan”, which literally means “A Thousand Mountains”, is an abbreviation of the original name “A Thousand Lotus Flower Mountains” and is an allusion to a famous legend, which states that the mountains were formed when a goddess dropped her beautiful lotus flower embroidery to earth. Alongside the mountain range, the park is littered with stunning Buddhist and Taoist temples, monasteries, and nunneries that are just waiting to be explored.

Yet the crowning jewels of the province are undoubtedly its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Mukden Palace in Shenyang, the three imperial tombs near Shenyang, and the ruins of the ancient Goguryeo capital on Wunü Mountain. In addition, the easternmost section of the Great Wall cuts across the southwestern corner of the province.

shenyang-palace01The Mukden Palace was built for the Qing Dynasty emperors before they conquered the rest of China, and was designed to be a smaller version of the Forbidden City. It provides a fascinating insight into palace architecture at the time and exhibits Han Chinese, Manchu, and Tibetan architectural features, making it relatively unique among imperial buildings in China. It has now been converted into a museum, where visitors can delve into the history of the Manchu emperors. In the same vein, the three imperial tombs near Shenyang were all dedicated to different Manchu emperors and are known as the Zhaoling Tomb, the Fuling Tomb, and the Yongling Tomb respectively. With such a wealth of historical sites on offer, Liaoning may be the cultural “outsider”, but it certainly isn’t an underdog!

 

Sichuan Province

When you think of Sichuan, the first thought that comes to mind is undoubtedly the intensely spicy food that the province has become internationally famous for. Sichuan-style cuisine ranks as one of the Eight Great Culinary Traditions of Chinese Cooking, and is well-known for its liberal use of garlic, ginger, Sichuan pepper, and hot chillies. Its signature dishes, such as Kungpao Chicken and Twice Cooked Pork, have delighted palates in Chinese restaurants throughout the world. With such fiery appetites, it’s no wonder that Sichuan Opera is famous for its fire-spitting act!

The province itself is located in southwest China, nestled in the upper Yangtze River valley. Near the centre of the province, the provincial capital of Chengdu represents Sichuan’s cultural and historical heart. Sichuan was one of the first areas in China to have been settled by the Han Chinese, and evidence suggests they may have migrated there as far back as the 5th century BC. In 1987, a group of archaeologists uncovered artefacts near Chengdu that indicate a Bronze-Age civilization known as the Shu once populated Sichuan. Many of these bronze objects date back to 3000 BC, making them over 5,000 years old! They are spread between two archaeological sites, the Sanxingdui site and the Jinsha site, both of which house many of the artefacts in their respective museums.

Geographically speaking, the province can be roughly split into two main areas: the fertile Sichuan Basin in the east, and the rugged mountain valleys to the west. While the Sichuan Basin is heralded as a “Heaven on Earth” thanks to its mild, humid climate and abundant natural resources, the western valleys represent a much harsher terrain that is notoriously difficult to inhabit. Surrounded by lofty mountain ranges and extensive plateaus, parts of western Sichuan are so geographically distinct that they exhibit a subarctic climate, with temperatures dropping as low as -30 °C (-22 °F) in winter!

That being said, the weather in Sichuan is generally mild. During summer, temperatures rise to a comfortable 29 °C (84 °F) in the south, while they remain a steady 20 °C (68 °F) in the west. Winter temperatures decrease to about 12 °C (54 °F) in the south, but plummet to a chilly −8 °C (18 °F) as you go further west. However, the east does suffer from a particularly fierce rainy season from April to August, and the area is notoriously so overcast that there is an old local saying which states, “Sichuan dogs bark when they see the Sun”. Consequently, the best time to visit the province is from April to May and September to October, with autumn heralded as the most beautiful season for enjoying the copious natural scenery.

With its unusual geography, Sichuan is one of the most bio-diverse provinces in China and boasts a range of spectacular nature reserves, from dense highland forests to lush grasslands. Many of these reserves are home to some of the most fascinating and endangered animals on the planet, such as the Sichuan takin, the snow leopard, the clouded leopard, the red panda, and the giant panda. The province is famed for its indigenous wild panda population, with seven nature reserves and nine scenic parks dedicated entirely to these cuddly creatures. They were collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.

Every year, visitors flock to places such as the Chengdu Panda Research Base and Bifengxia Panda Base in order to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants. Yet these aren’t the only natural treasures that the province has to offer. Other UNESCO World Heritage Sites include mystical Jiuzhaigou, a river valley of ethereal beauty; Mount Emei, one of Four Sacred Mountains of Chinese Buddhism; the Leshan Giant Buddha, a colossal 71-metre-tall (233 ft.) statue that has been carved into a cliff-face; and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an ancient system of artificial waterways that dates back to the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC). With such a plethora of heritage sites on offer, you’ll start to wonder what attractions in Sichuan aren’t on the World Heritage List!

In fact, the natural scenery in Sichuan is so inspiring that it served as the muse for China’s two greatest poets, Du Fu and Li Bai. While Li Bai grew up in the province during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Du Fu fled to the province in his later life after his political career went sour and many of his most powerful poems were written during this time. The thatched cottage where Du Fu used to live is now open to the public, and can be found in the western outskirts of Chengdu. Along with these two phenomenal talents, Sichuan was also the birthplace of the celebrated politician Deng Xiaoping.

sichuan Yi minorityAlthough the majority of the province’s population is Han Chinese, it does feature a wide range of other ethnic minorities, including large constituencies of Yi, Tibetan, and Qiang people. Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, and Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture are all ideal places to travel and engage with the unique cultures of these colourful ethnic groups. So be sure to put a little spice into your China travels, and schedule a stop in Sichuan!

Chengdu

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Unlike other mega-cities throughout China, Sichuan’s provincial capital of Chengdu is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere. Relaxation is the order of the day, and the locals have become experts at it. In fact, the city boasts more tea houses and bars than Shanghai, in spite of having less than half the population! With its numerous public parks, active nightlife, and tranquil tea culture, Chengdu is the ideal place to soak in the true essence of China at a leisurely pace.

The city itself is located on the fertile Chengdu Plain, which is nicknamed the “Country of Heaven” or the “Land of Abundance” thanks to its unparalleled agricultural potential. This is in part due to the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System, which rests about 58 kilometres (36 mi) from the city and is the oldest of its kind in the world. This impressive project has been diverting water from the Min River to the plain for over 2,000 years and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, along with nearby Mount Qingcheng.

Yet it seems the city might be even older than this water system suggests! Although records indicate that the original city of Chengdu was founded during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), archaeological discoveries at the nearby Jinsha Site and Sanxingdui Site have shown that the region was settled over 4,000 years ago. Artefacts from this extraordinary discovery can now be found in the Jinsha Relics Museum and the Sanxingdui Museum, which are located in the northwest of Chengdu and at the Sanxingdui Site respectively. From then onwards, it became the capital of two short-lived regimes: the Former Shu (907-925) and the Later Shu (934-965). During that time, its economic prosperity skyrocketed and, during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), it became one of the first places in the world where paper money was widely circulated.

Its venerable history means that Chengdu boasts a myriad of exciting historical monuments, such as the cottage of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) poet Du Fu and the Wuhou Temple. Du Fu, who is considered one of the greatest poets in Chinese history, took refuge in Chengdu after he fled the imperial capital of Chang’an (modern-day Xi’an). He wrote over 240 celebrated poems while he was there and, during the second year of his stay, he constructed his “caotang” or “thatched cottage”. However, the cottage that you see today was actually constructed in 1078 as a memorial to Du Fu, and is far more luxurious than the original. What a shame he didn’t live to enjoy it!

Similarly, the Wuhou Temple was built during the Western Jin Dynasty (265–316) in honour of Zhuge Liang, a legendary military and political strategist who served the Shu-Han Dynasty (221–263) during the turbulent Three Kingdoms Period (220-280). Nowadays it functions as a museum and contains a collection of statues, stone inscriptions, and tablets that provide a small window into China’s ancient past.

Alongside these historical relics, Chengdu also boasts arguably the greatest and most well-known national treasure of all: the giant panda. Sichuan province is home to the vast majority of the world’s giant panda population, and its provincial capital acts as the perfect gateway to many of its finest panda reserves. These conservation projects are so integral to the survival of this gentle giant that they were collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006.

Within the city itself, you’ll find the Chengdu Panda Research Base, which is located in its northern suburbs. It’s a breeding centre for giant pandas, but also acts as a zoo where visitors can watch the pandas in their specialised enclosures, keep up-to-date on the latest conservation projects, and learn more about this cuddly creature. It seems befitting that the animal associated with Chengdu should be one that’s known for its love of eating, sleeping, and enjoying a leisurely life!

While the city’s pandas spend their days munching on bamboo, the locals prefer to sip on jasmine tea at one of the hundreds of tea houses found throughout the city. Bamboo chairs and wooden tables are the hallmark of a traditional tea house, while modern tea houses boast a diverse range of styles. Alongside tea and snacks, most tea houses offer Majiang sets, Majiang tables, or even separate Majiang rooms. So forget about your poker face; in Chengdu, you’ll have to don your Majiang mask! Luxury tea houses will usually offer some kind of live entertainment, such as thrilling daily performances of Sichuan opera.

Yet your thirst isn’t the only desire that is sure to be quenched. Chengdu is widely acknowledged as one of China’s centres of gastronomy. Sichuan-style cuisine is celebrated as one of the Eight Great Culinary Traditions of Chinese Cooking, and its capital is home to some of the finest restaurants in the province. In particular, Jinli Ancient Street boasts a plethora of old-fashioned stores, boutique hotels, luxury restaurants, and vibrant bars that are sure to delight the eyes and the palate. This is the ideal place to sample some of the local snack food, or indulge in a banquet of local delicacies. Just be sure to keep a cup of tea on-hand; Sichuan-style food is notoriously spicy!

Heilongjiang Province

As China’s northernmost province, it goes without saying that temperatures in Heilongjiang can get a little chilly! The region is renowned for its crisp snowy scenery and the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, which takes place in the provincial capital of Harbin, attracts droves of visitors every year. The name Heilongjiang literally translates to mean “Black Dragon River”, the Chinese name for the scenic Amur River which marks the border between China and Russia. Sharing both its northern and eastern border with Russia, it should come as no surprise that Heilongjiang’s architecture and culture has been heavily influenced by its neighbour.

Although the Han Chinese still represent the majority, a substantial number of Russian people call this province home, alongside other ethnic minorities such as the Manchu, Korean, Mongol, Hui, Ewenki, Daur, Oroqen, and Hezhen people. Each of these ethnic groups boasts their own colourful cultures, customs, and lifestyles, from the hardy Hezhen fishermen to the skilled Oroqen hunters. Venturing into the icy countryside of Heilongjiang, visitors are welcome to connect with these fascinating peoples and spend time in their isolated settlements. Just be sure to wrap up warm!

heilongjiang02The province has become notorious for its harsh winters, which typically last for five to eight months. With a humid continental climate in the south and a subarctic one in the north, temperatures in January average from −31 to −15 °C (−24 to 5 °F), so don’t be offended if locals in Heilongjiang give you the cold shoulder! The short summers are warm and mild, ranging from 18 to 23 °C (64 to 73 °F). This bitter weather may seem unforgiving, but the province’s numerous mountain ranges are actually home to several endangered animal species, including the Siberian tiger, the Amur leopard, the red-crowned crane, and the lynx.

To the west and the north respectively, the Greater and Lesser Khingan ranges dominate, while the Zhangguangcai and Laoye ranges rise up to the east. Although much of the province is mountainous, the elevations are generally quite low, with very few mountain ranges exceeding 1,000 metres (3,300 ft.) in height. Of the many natural attractions on offer in Heilongjiang, the Wudalianchi Global Geopark and the Jingpo Lake Scenic Resort are undoubtedly the most magnificent. Wudalianchi is a series of five interconnected lakes that were formed when lava from a volcanic eruption dammed a tributary of the Amur River. Alongside the glistening lakes, the geopark boasts a myriad of unusual volcanic landforms, a handful of temples, and its own museum.

Similarly, most of the sights in the Jingpo Lake Scenic Resort were formed thanks to volcanic activity. Jingpo Lake itself is the largest mountain lake in China and is home to the spectacular Diaoshuilou Waterfall. Having been formed by a series of volcanic eruptions that occurred approximately 4,700 to 8,300 years ago, the lake is proof that fire and brimstone isn’t always a terrible thing!

Towering mountains and shimmering lakes aside, the real draw for tourists in Heilongjiang is its gorgeous snow scenery. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you may want to take a trip up to Mohe, China’s northernmost town. This region is home to thick Siberian forests, distinctive Russian architecture, and sparse settlements of various ethnic minorities. Thanks to the town’s northerly location, lucky visitors are occasionally treated to stunning views of the aurora borealis.

For those of you who fancy getting up close and personal with the snow, there are a number of fantastic ski resorts dotted throughout the province, the most famous of which is Yabuli Ski Resort. This resort acts as the training centre for the Chinese Olympic ski team and covers two mountains, with a good range of advanced, intermediate, and beginner slopes. You could even test your skills at the Heilongjiang International Ski Festival, although you may prefer spending the day drinking hot chocolate in the lodge instead!

Tianjin

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Often eclipsed by its neighbour Beijing, Tianjin is a much-underrated city and municipality in northern China with a fascinating history and colonial twist. Bordering the Bohai Sea to the east and Beijing Municipality to the northwest, Tianjin has been a vital trading port for centuries, connecting China’s capital with the sea. However, up until the Song Dynasty (960-1279), the region was a sparsely populated marsh. Like the ugly duckling, Tianjin has transformed from boggy swamp to bustling metropolis!

Although the original settlement was quite small, it was developed into a major garrison town during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and prospered as the main gateway to the imperial capital of Beijing. By the beginning of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), it had risen to become the main economic centre in northern China, thanks to its location at the northern terminus of the Grand Canal(1). However, its strategic importance and trade potential soon attracted some unwanted attention. After China’s brutal defeat during the Second Opium War, the Qing Dynasty was forced to sign a treaty that granted Britain and France the right to extraterritoriality in Tianjin, as well as opening the port up to free trade.

Tianjin02Although this treaty only officially authorised that Britain and France should receive foreign concessions in the city, concession territories were soon granted to a number of other foreign countries, including Japan, Germany, Russia, Austria-Hungary, Italy, and Belgium. From 1860 onwards, these foreign countries began constructing banks, hospitals, churches, residential houses, and all manner of buildings in their given concessions. In a matter of decades, the city was filled with magnificent colonial architecture of various styles, from the bold shapes of French Art Deco to the characteristic deep reds of German Brick Gothic. The last of these concessions was only ceded back to China in 1947, meaning Tianjin had experienced a strong foreign influence for nearly 100 years.

Nowadays, over 200 of these spectacular colonial buildings remain and have been preserved as popular tourist attractions. Among them, the Jing Garden within the Japanese concession is of particular historical significance. When the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, Puyi, was forced to leave the Forbidden City in 1924, he relocated to Tianjin and took the Jing Garden as his private residence in 1929. It represents a fluid mixture of traditional Chinese and contemporary European architectural styles. The building now serves as a museum, where visitors can wander through the many rooms and admire the various exhibits of period furniture and ornaments.

Tianjin03Tianjin Ancient Culture Street acts as a perfect complement to these foreign concessions, providing visitors with a welcome slice of traditional Chinese culture. Although it was only officially opened in 1986, it features a variety of ancient buildings, such as Tianhou Palace and Yuhuangge Taoist Temple, which were originally built in 1326 and 1368 respectively. Hundreds of stores line the street, offering up famous local handicrafts like Yangliuqing paintings, Zhang’s painted clay figures, and Wei’s portable flying kites. With such an array of souvenirs on offer, you’ll be sure to take a piece of Tianjin’s history home with you! Alongside these ancient buildings, there are several other historic houses of worship dotted throughout the city, including Dabei Monastery, which is the oldest Zen Buddhist temple in Tianjin, and St. Joseph Cathedral, a stunning Roman Catholic church located in the French concession.

The municipality itself goes far beyond the confines of the city, spreading out across a vast expanse of flat plains near the coast and hilly grassland to the north. Its proximity to the sea means that it benefits from a continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures average at a comfortable 27 °C (81 °F), while temperatures in winter can regularly plummet to a chilly −4 °C (25 °F). It is important to note that the dry and windy spring is occasionally menaced by sandstorms blowing in from the Gobi Desert, and severe winter storms are also common.

Located approximately 15 kilometres (9 mi) west of Tianjin’s city centre, the town of Yangliuqing has played a significant role in the history of the region and is renowned for its Chinese New Year-themed, traditional woodblock print paintings. It is also home to the Shi Family Grand Courtyard, which dates back to 1875 and is the former residence of a wealthy merchant named Shi Yuanshi. With over 275 rooms, 200 attached houses, and its own theatre, this colossal complex would put even the finest mansions to shame! Nowadays it serves as a museum, with a large collection of folk artwork bedecking its walls.

 

(1) The Grand Canal: It is the longest canal in the world and starts in Beijing, passing through the provinces of Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang before eventually terminating in the city of Hangzhou. It links the Yellow River to the Yangtze River and the oldest parts of it date back to the 5th century BC, although most of its construction took place during the Sui Dynasty (581-618).

 

Changsha

As the provincial capital, Changsha represents the historical and cultural heart of Hunan province. With a history that stretches back over a staggering 3,000 years, its pedigree is without question. Yet, at first glance, you’d be hard-pressed to believe that this glittering metropolis was once a crude Neolithic settlement! From 1935 to 1936, archaeologists excavated the area and found that Changsha was once an integral part of the Chu State, which ruled the region during the Warring States Period (c. 476-221 BC). However, this incredible discovery would prove to be just the tip of the iceberg!

During the 1970s, the celebrated Mawangdui Tombs of the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD) were unearthed. They were originally constructed between 186 and 165 BC, but were in phenomenally good condition for their age. In particular, the corpse of Lady Xin Zhui, who was interred in Tomb No. 1, made international headlines after it was revealed that her mummified body was so intact that doctors were able to perform an autopsy on her. The autopsy confirmed that she had died of a heart attack as a result of poor diet, proving that junk food was just as addictive 2,000 years ago as it is today!

The Yuelu AcademyAlongside the remains of Lady Xin Zhui, her husband Marquis Li Cang, and another man believed to be a relative, the tombs were brimming with historical artefacts of great significance, from silk garments and colourful paintings to manuscripts on astronomy, religion, and medicine. These relics gave historians an invaluable insight into life in ancient China, and many of them are now displayed at the Hunan Provincial Museum.

The museum itself is located about 11 kilometres (7 mi) away from one of Changsha’s major attractions: Mount Yuelu. This towering mountain rests on the western bank of the Xiangjiang River and is renowned for its picturesque scenery. Colourful azaleas blanket the area in spring, dense forests provide shade in summer, canopies turn a rich golden-orange in autumn, and in winter it is transformed into a snow-white wonderland. Its natural beauty is matched only by its cultural importance, as it was once the popular haunt of scholars, poets, and monks. The Yuelu Academy, Lushan Temple, Sarira Tower, Yunlu Palace, and Aiwan Pavilion can all be found within its vast expanse.

changsha02Resting at its eastern foot, the Yuelu Academy was built during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and was considered one of the four most prestigious academies in China at the time. Numerous revolutionary scholars lectured or studied at this academy, including Zhu Xi, who is widely regarded as the father of Neo-Confucianism. In 1926, it was converted into a college for higher learning and is now the home of Hunan University. It seems the scenery on Mount Yuelu really did inspire revolutionary thought, since the Aiwan Pavilion was supposedly the place where Chairman Mao would relax with his friends while he was studying in the city.

On the luxurious Orange Isle, just 2 kilometres (1 mi) from the East Gate of Mount Yuelu, Chairman Mao has been immortalised in a rock carving known as the Youth Mao Zedong Statue. The island is so-named because of its abundant orange trees, which yield deliciously sweet oranges every year. Since it is the country’s largest inland island, it is sometimes nicknamed the “First Island in China”. With its own beach, park, fountain, fireworks show, swimming pool, and annual music festival, it should definitely be first on your list of places to visit in Changsha!

xiang-cuisineAfter exploring all of the exciting attractions the city has to offer, you’re sure to have worked up one serious appetite. Fortunately, Changsha is celebrated by gourmands as a hub of Xiang cuisine, one of the Eight Culinary Traditions of Chinese Cuisine. This style of cuisine originates from Hunan province, and is known for its perfect blend of spicy and sour flavours. Huangxing Pedestrian Street is the ideal place to get to grips with the local food, with numerous restaurants and street food stalls offering up an authentic taste of Changsha. From spicy shrimp to the city’s famous stinky tofu, you’re sure to find something to whet your appetite!

Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

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Ningxia is one of five ethnic minority autonomous regions in China and its official name is Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, since over one-third of its population is made up of the Hui ethnic minority. The Hui people follow the religion of Islam and so everything, from their elegant traditional dress to their vibrant architecture, has a particularly Central Asian flair. Mosques such as the Tongxin Great Mosque in the city of Wuzhong, the largest and oldest mosque in Ningxia, can be found dotted throughout the province. These mosques are usually a stunning blend of Han Chinese and Central Asian architectural features, demonstrating the hybrid culture of Ningxia.

The region itself is located in north-central China, sandwiched between Shaanxi province in the east, Gansu province in the east, south, and west, and Inner Mongolia to the north. While most of Ningxia is made up of unforgiving desert, the vast plain of the Yellow River in the north has long been a fertile centre for agriculture. The thought of sandy deserts may conjure up images of sweltering heat, but Ningxia’s weather is far from scorching! Its climate is largely continental, with long chilly winters and short mild summers. While average temperatures in July range from a comfortable 17 to 24 °C (63 to 75 °F), in January it can regularly plummet to between −7 and −15 °C (19 to 5 °F).

west xiaIn ancient times, modern-day Ningxia almost entirely belonged to the Western Xia Dynasty (1038–1227), which was ruled by the Tangut people. The Tanguts were eventually conquered by Genghis Khan, and Ningxia was incorporated into China proper during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). Very little is known about these ancient people and their mysterious dynasty, although the Western Xia Tombs at the foot of the Helan Mountains have provided historians with a treasure trove of invaluable information. These tombs represent one of the largest imperial burial sites in China and offer a fascinating insight into this lesser-known period of Chinese history. Nowadays several of the tombs have been opened to the public, and are often called the “Oriental Pyramids” thanks to their unusual shape.

Just 35 kilometres (22 mi) east of the tombs, the regional capital of Yinchuan was once the imperial capital of the Western Xia Dynasty and remains Ningxia’s cultural centre. Since Yinchuan and several other cities used to be important trading hubs along the Silk Road, there are numerous Buddhist sites scattered nearby that were constructed by traveling monks. The most magnificent of these is undoubtedly the Xumi Mountain Grottoes. While this grotto complex is relatively unknown outside of China, it is nationally regarded as one of the finest works of Buddhist architecture in the country.

From the Northern Wei Dynasty (368-534) until the Tang Dynasty (618-907), over 130 caves were delicately carved directly into the eastern cliff-face of Mount Xumi and filled with lifelike Buddhist sculptures. The style of these sculptures integrates visible Indian and Central Asian features, acting as a testament to the cultural exchange that took place along the Silk Road. The site’s crowning jewel is a colossal 20-metre-tall (65 ft.) statue of Maitreya(1). Other spectacular Buddhist monuments include the 108 Pagodas near Qingtongxia and the Haibao Pagoda in Yinchuan.

If you’re more of an adventurer than a historian, you may want to sign up for some of Ningxia’s famed desert tourism! The district of Shapotou is regarded as the “Capital of Sand” and is located on the southern rim of the Tengger Desert. It’s home to the Desert Research Centre and one of China’s four celebrated singing sand dunes. The strange shape of the dunes means that, as the wind whips over them, it creates a unique sound that is said to resemble the tolling of a bell or the beating of a drum. It may not sound as pleasant as Pavarotti, but it’s still pretty impressive! Standing atop the dunes, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the surrounding desert that is both awe-inspiring and humbling in equal measure. The district also provides access to long sections of the Great Wall, which span across northern Ningxia.

NINGXIASimilarly, the Sand Lake Scenic Resort in Pingluo County offers stunning views of both the desert and the resort’s many scenic lakes. Sand Lake itself is one of the best places for bird-watching in China, as it attracts over one million birds from 198 different species every year. Throughout spring and autumn, migratory birds such as white cranes, red-crowned cranes, swans, and mandarin ducks flock to the lake in order to rest their weary wings. The resort is even equipped with a Bird-watching Tower, where hundreds of people gather and use the high quality telescopes provided to spy on the feathery fowls. Standing at the top of the tower, you could almost say you’ll have a bird’s eye view!

 

1. Maitreya: In the Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is a bodhisattva who will appear on Earth sometime in the future and achieve complete enlightenment. He will be the successor to the present Buddha, Gautama Buddha, and is thus regarded as a sort of future Buddha.

Hainan Province

Hainan is China’s southernmost province and is comprised predominantly of Hainan Island, but also includes over 200 smaller, outlying islands. Historically, it was notorious as a place of exile for criminals and disgraced imperial officials. With its pristine sandy beaches, azure waters, and abundant coconut trees, it’s a small wonder more people didn’t commit crimes simply to get banished to this tropical paradise! Even the famous Song Dynasty (960-1279) official Su Shi, who was relegated there in 1094, extolled the beauty of the island in much of his poetry.

The main island is located in the South China Sea and rests south of Guangdong province, with only the narrow Qiongzhou Strait between them. With an area of just over 33,900 square kilometres (13,100 sq. mi), it is the smallest province in China. The island is somewhat oval-shaped and rises towards the southwest to ultimately reach an elevation of over 1,800 metres (6,100 ft.) at Mount Wuzhi, which is its highest peak. The majority of the island is blanketed in verdant greenery, from towering palm trees and exotic flowers to lush bamboo groves and dense rainforests. It even hosts a number of endemic animal species, including the Hainan black-crested gibbon, the Hainan hare, and the Hainan peacock-pheasant.

Hainan’s climate ranges from subtropical in the north to fully tropical in the south, with summer temperatures of around 28 °C (82 °F) and winter temperatures averaging at a balmy 18 °C (64 °F). Since temperatures almost never drop below 10 °C (50 °F) in winter, the island has become a popular resort for tourists desperate to escape their chilly hometowns! However, summer brings with it heavy monsoon rains, frequent tropical storms, and powerful typhoons, so it’s important to check the forecast carefully before planning your summer getaway.

Although the vast majority of Hainan’s population is made up of the Han Chinese ethnic group, about one-sixth is comprised of ethnic minorities. The Li people, who occupy much of the south-central and southwestern regions, are the largest minority group. They are believed to be the original settlers of the island and are descended from ancient tribes that immigrated there approximately 7,000 to 27,000 years ago. Their unique culture, vibrant traditional dress, and lively festivals are a source of fascination for tourists, who regularly flock to Li villages in order to experience their way of life.

From the late 1990s onwards, Hainan was transformed from isolated “prison” to a major tourist destination, complete with sandy beaches, thrilling attractions, gourmet restaurants, and a plethora of luxury resorts. Sanya Beach is widely considered to be the most beautiful, although unfortunately this means it is also the most crowded! Other natural attractions on the island include the Luobi or “Hanging Pen” Cave, a karst cave said to grant visitors the gift of creative writing, and Yanoda, a rainforest where visitors can embark on guided walking tours, slide down zip-lines, and climb waterfalls.

The celebrated Dongpo Academy of Classical Learning, which was first established in 1098 and is located near the city of Danzhou, is arguably the province’s most notable attraction. It was built in memory of Su Shi (Su Dongpo), and incorporates the building where Su gave lectures during his exile on the island. Similarly, the Temple of Five Lords is a temple complex dedicated to five condemned officials from the Tang (618-907) and Song dynasties, and can be found near the provincial capital of Haikou. While some of these officials were only sentenced to a minor 11 days, many of them were banished to the island for upwards of 11 years!

It seems these unruly officials certainly had an effect on the local people, because the Tomb of Hai Rui in Haikou is devoted to a Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) official named Hai Rui, who came from Hainan and famously fell out of favour with the Emperor for speaking out on behalf of his people. In 1589, his many admirers built this tomb in his honour and it has remained a site of outstanding cultural significance in the region ever since.

Combining the island’s natural beauty with its historical importance, the Nanshan Buddhist Cultural Zone in Sanya is yet another one of Hainan’s popular tourist attractions. The zone is made up of a vast rainforest, with countless temples, statues, and scenic gardens dotted throughout its expanse. While the Nanshan Temple is its official centre-piece, its crowning jewel is undoubtedly the 108-metre-tall (354 ft.) statue of the bodhisattva1 Avalokiteśvara (Guanyin), known as the Guanyin of the South Sea. At over twice the size of New York’s Statue of Liberty, it ranks as the fourth tallest statue in the world!

Hainan Island is also a haven for golfers, surfers, cyclists, and numerous other sports enthusiasts. Resorts such as Yalong Bay Golf Club and Sunrise Golf Resort have cropped up to accommodate the expanding golf industry, while competitions like Swatch Girls World Pro China and the Hainan International Surfing Festival invite surfers to test their skill in the South China Sea. That being said, the only competition you may want to take part in is who can get the best tan!

1. Bodhisattva: The term literally means “one whose goal is awakening”. It refers to a person who seeks enlightenment and is thus on the path to becoming a Buddha. It can be applied to anyone, from a newly inducted Buddhist to a veteran or “celestial” bodhisattva who has achieved supernatural powers through their training.