Joanna James
If you say that China is the most populous country in the world, you're not wrong. But if you act on that fact alone and cross China out of your bucket list, then you may be underrating it. China embodies all that is mystifying and exotic. Mentioned below are some of its fascinating attractions.
A lot of us have probably heard about the Great Wall of China. Stretching more than 6000 kilometres in length, it is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Some of the walls of this man-made marvel have a history that spans beyond 7th century BC. The Great Wall has had many purposes, such as defence and border control. It is even claimed that this gigantic structure is also visible from outer space, which has been a controversial topic for many years.
Located in Central Beijing, the Forbidden City has served as the imperial palace and state residence of many Chinese emperors. It is built over 14 years, covering almost 72 hectares, and it's the largest preserved collection of ancient wooden structures in the world. The Forbidden City is the best-preserved example of the palatial architecture of ancient China. In the olden days, nobody could enter the palace without prior permission from the emperor, hence the name.
First discovered by a group of farmers back in 1974, the Terracotta Army consists of terracotta sculptures that represent the army of the first emperor of China. These have been buried with the emperor with the belief that they would protect him in his afterlife. The figures vary in their heights according to their status and roles, the tallest being the higher-ranked generals. It is estimated that the Terra Cotta Army holds more than 8000 soldiers along with a number of chariots drawn by horses, officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians.
For many years, the Li River has been the focus of many poems and portraits. Nestled in the Guangxi Province of Northern China, it originates from the Mao'er Mountains and flows through Guilin and Yangshuo. A cruise between the two cities promises extraordinary views that succeed in taking one's breath away. The 86 kilometre journey offers spectacular views of karst peaks and farmers working in the fields who live at the charming villages nestled in the base of the mountains.
If you ever visit China, don't forget to tour the humongous panda sanctuary in Sichuan Province, China. It is a non-profit organization founded in1987 that facilitates breeding of pandas and other rare animals. More popular as the Panda Base among natives, here, one can witness the pandas in their natural habitat, either chewing the end of a tender bamboo stem or sleeping between meals. The site was built imitating the natural habitat of these gentle creatures, in the hope of providing an authentic environment to put them at ease. Located close to many Apart' Hotels the likes of Citadines Apart'hotels, it is a unique experience that can only be gained in China.
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.
