Joanna James
China is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations. Attractions vary, centred on culture, tradition and history, while modern marvels and experiences are nothing short of awesome.
China is well known across the world for its tea drinking traditions. As a top producer of quality tea, this nation knows a thing or two about the perfect brew. Observing a traditional tea drinking ceremony is not limited to just tea drinkers, all visitors to the nation, curious to learn about exotic new customs should try and catch one. Huangshan in the Anhui Province is most famous for its tea brews, such as Furry Tip and the Keenum Black Tea. You can also explore the Yellow Mountains, another popular destination for catching a tea drinking ceremony.
The Great Wall of China is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic attraction that is recognised across the world. Constructed over a period of 2,000 years the wall covers a distance of 3,100 miles; the most popular section often explored by hikers is in Badaling, which is close to Beijing. Exploring the history behind the wall and seeing it stretch like a sleeping giant, is one of the most memorable experiences you will have in China.
In the suburbs of beautiful Kunming are the Western Hills, popularly known as 'sleeping Buddha hills' this range does indeed resemble the sleeping figure of Buddha. Nature lovers will adore this beautiful haven, home to an exotic range of foliage and stunning scenery that well rewards all shutterbugs. Dragon Gate is just one of the many vintage attractions located in the Western Hills. A must visit, if you are staying at hotels within easy reach of this site such as Grand Park Kunming, Dragon Gate is set into the hills and is a stunning carved edifice that shows-off ancient architectural skills. Explore stone rooms, stone grottos and Buddha statues carved out of the rock. The statues carved into the natural face of the rock are true works of art and nothing short of spectacular. Dragon Gate is located at the edge of a cliff, hanging onto the purpose built railing, will reward you with stunning sights of the valley below. Not too far from Kunming hotels, the Western Hills are well worth a visit.
A relic from the nation's mighty era of dynasties and emperors, the Forbidden City in Beijing was once out of bounds for commoners. Made up of palaces and over 8,000 rooms, the place is an ode to ancient Chinese architecture. Explore the intricate work, the yellow and red roofs and discover ancient relics and works of art that show the might of China's emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
If you love beautiful environs and serene locations; there is no better experience than a cruise along the Li River. A muse since ancient times for Chinese poets and artists, the stretch of river from Guilin to Yangshuo is the most beautiful; a cruise along this waterway will reward you with sights of verdant rice paddy fields, swaying bamboo groves and water buffaloes enjoying the cooling river.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
