Discover The Beauty Of China

From the hustle and bustle of Beijing to the karst mountains of Guilin, China is an example of modernity and history lying side-by-side. Everywhere you look there is some form of beauty – not necessarily natural, sometimes manmade, but always enough to take your breath away.

Beijing, the capital city, is decorated with majestic palaces once owned by emperors centuries ago, including The Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Bold and grand, they reside beside Hutongs – neighbourhoods of small alleyways and winding lanes to buy trinkets, souvenirs and surprises that you never know what you may find within. One of the best ways to get around is on a rickshaw – an icon of local transport. When evening comes around, you can’t pass up the opportunity to try a spicy Sichuan feast before a Kung Fu Show at the Red Theatre – prepare for your jaw to drop to the floor as you gawp at the most famous martial arts in Chinese history.

Of course, no trip to China is complete without a visit to the Great Wall – even if it’s just to say you’ve been. You can choose certain sections of the wall to walk, and Mutianyu provides one of the most fulfilling experiences with stunning views, few crowds and an incredible hike along this wonder of the world. If you get peckish, snacks from the local street vendors in Beijing are great for refuelling on the go.

Some 700 miles away from Beijing, there are many sights you won’t forget in a hurry in Xi’an. If you’ve seen the Terracotta Warriors in pictures, you won’t believe how much more impressive they are in real life. These intricate sculptures depict the armies (horses and chariots included) of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. Other beautiful sights can be had of the Great Mosque, the City Wall and the Big and Small Wild Goose Pagodas – particularly romantic in the evening.

For something of a more natural beauty, Guilin is home of spectacular karst mountains, quaint villages and the Li River. Take a cruise along the river to Yangshuo, soak up the gorgeous scenery and work your camera as if your life depends on it. Once in Yangshuo, you can explore the villages, meet the warm and welcoming locals and pick up any delicacies that take your fancy by bike.

You can’t say you’ve discovered the beauty of China without visiting Shanghai. Referred to as the Paris of the East, this dynamic metropolis is adorned with mind-blowing architecture along the edge of the Huangpu River. The sight of the city at night is truly memorable – the closest you can come to seeing a city of the future as it lights up in greens, oranges, pinks and blues. To end your experience of Shanghai on a serious high (literally!), head up to a rooftop bar to look down upon the city.

Beijing, The Great Wall, Xi’an, Guilin and Shanghai are all destinations visited on the Beauty Of China tour with GuideWe Travel. Local English-speaking guides are ready to show you what each destination has to offer, from the sights to the food and the culture to the beauty.

From $779pp, find out more about travelling around China at www.guidewetravel.com