Joanna James
China with its illustrious history is home to many allures that take travellers back in time, to a period when Emperor's ruled and myths were formed. Listed below are the country's best attractions.
The country's iconic attraction that symbolises China is the Great Wall – the longest wall in the world. A marvellous example of an ancient defence mechanism, the Great Wall meanders along rustic countryside's, sheer mountains and stunning surroundings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the wall well deserves its place as one of the 7 new wonders of the modern world. Totalling a distance of 5,000kms the wall stretches from the country's western border to the beautiful east coast. Since the most cohesive sections winds its way along Beijing, the city is generally listed as home to the Great Wall of China.
Again an attraction that symbolises China, the Terracotta Army of Xi'an is famous the world over. The army of Emperor Qin lay buried for over 2,000 years, until farmers digging a well in 1974, discovered what is today, one of the greatest finds in archaeological history. The army was listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1987. Guests at Grand Park Xian, should not miss checking out this iconic attraction which promises to impress; made up of life-size soldiers, the figures depict the army that triumphed over all other Chinese armies during the years of 475 and 221 BC; described as the 'Warring Period'. Since most Xi An China hotels are less than an hour away, getting to the site is a breeze.
Culture buffs and lovers of vintage architecture should not miss this attraction. A palace city that was out of bounds for commoners, the Forbidden City is an ode to ancient Chinese architectural skills. Made up of over 8,000 rooms; the palaces sport beautiful and elaborate roofs painted in vibrant colours of yellow and red. Called the 'Palace Museum' today, this site was an imperial palace for over 560 years when the Ming and Qing Dynasties ruled. A total of 24 emperors have lived in this World Cultural Heritage Site, home to a marvellous collection of historical and cultural relics.
The stunning environs of Karst, that hugs the Li River have been an inspiration to artists, poets and painters since ancient times; they have skillfully captured the areas breath-taking surroundings, as the river and its surroundings are nothing short of spectacular. Today the Li River is a popular destination for local and foreign photographers who strive to capture the natural essence of the place. The most beautiful precinct in this area is the 83km long stretch that consists of the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo. Look forward to immersing yourself in surroundings that consist of charming farming villages, rolling hills and steep cliffs.
The Yellow Mountains are located in East China, close to Hangzhou and Shanghai. The beautiful landscape is best known for its five lures; cloud seas, stunning sunrises, curled pine trees, hot springs and rocks in odd formations. One of the country's most famous peaks, the area is also home to one of the nation's most beautiful and popular parks.
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