Fast facts

Current weather in Beijing

Clear 27 ^oF
Humidity: 40%
Wind: NE at 11 mph

Geography:
Total area: 9,596,961 sq. km. (about 3.7 million sq. mi.).

Cities: Capital--Beijing. Other major cities--Shanghai,

Terrain: Plains, deltas, and hills in east; mountains, high plateaus, deserts in west.

Climate: Tropical in south to subarctic in north.

People:
Nationality: Chinese (singular and plural).

Population:  1,338,612,968.

Population growth rate: 0.655%.

Health (2009 est.): Life expectancy--73.47 years (overall);

Religions: Officially atheist; Daoist (Taoist), Buddhist, Christian 3%-4%, Muslim 1%-2%.

Education: Years compulsory--9. Literacy--90.9%.

Work force (2008 est., 808 million): Agriculture and forestry--43%; services--32%.

Ethnic Groups
The largest ethnic group is the Han Chinese, who constitute about 91.5% of the total population. The remaining 8.5% are Zhuang (16 million), Manchu (10 million), Hui (9 million), Miao (8 million), Uyghur (7 million), Yi (7 million), Mongol (5 million), Tibetan (5 million), Buyi (3 million), Korean (2 million), and other ethnic minorities.

Language
There are seven major Chinese dialects and many subdialects. Mandarin (or Putonghua), the predominant dialect, is spoken by over 70% of the population. It is taught in all schools and is the medium of government. About two-thirds of the Han ethnic group are native speakers of Mandarin; the rest, concentrated in southwest and southeast China, speak one of the six other major Chinese dialects. Non-Chinese languages spoken widely by ethnic minorities include Mongolian, Tibetan, Uyghur and other Turkic languages (in Xinjiang), and Korean (in the northeast).

Government:
Type: Communist party-led state.

Constitution: December 4, 1982; revised several times, most recently in 2004.

Independence: Unification under the Qin (Ch'in) Dynasty 221 BC; Qing (Ch'ing or Manchu) Dynasty replaced by a republic on February 12, 1912; People's Republic established October 1, 1949.

Political parties: Chinese Communist Party, 73.1 million members; 8 minor parties under Communist Party supervision.

Economy:
GDP (2008): $4.222 trillion (exchange rate-based).

Per capita GDP (2007): $2,459 (exchange rate-based).

GDP real growth rate (2008): 9.8%.

Natural resources: Coal, iron ore, petroleum, natural gas, mercury, tin, tungsten, antimony, manganese, molybdenum, vanadium, magnetite, aluminum, lead, zinc, uranium, hydropower potential (world's largest).

Agriculture: Products--Among the world's largest producers of rice, wheat, potatoes, corn, peanuts, tea, millet, barley; commercial crops include cotton, other fibers, apples, oilseeds, pork and fish; produces variety of livestock products.

Industry: Types--mining and ore processing, iron, steel, aluminum, and other metals, coal; machine building; armaments; textiles and apparel; petroleum; cement; chemicals; fertilizers; consumer products, including footwear, toys, and electronics; food processing; transportation equipment, including automobiles, rail cars and locomotives, ships, and aircraft; telecommunications equipment, commercial space launch vehicles, satellites.

Trade (2008): Exports--$1.5 trillion: electrical and other machinery, including data processing equipment, apparel, textiles, iron and steel, optical and medical equipment. Main partners--United States 19.1%, Hong Kong 15.1%, Japan 8.4%, South Korea 4.6%, Germany 4% (2007). Imports--$1.156 trillion: electrical and other machinery, oil and mineral fuels, optical and medical equipment, metal ores, plastics, organic chemicals. Main partners--Japan 14%, South Korea 10.9%, Taiwan 10.5%, U.S. 7.3%, Germany 4.7% (2007).

Map:

Places of interest/attractions

Beijing

(ei means north and jing means capital),is a world famous ancient city and young metropolis, the capital city of the Republic of China, is the seat of power for the most populous and fastest developing country in the world. Beijing is one of the world's truly imposing cities, with a 3,000-year history and 15 million people.

It is the political, cultural and economic center of the People's Republic of China. Rich in history, Beijing has been China's primary capital for more than seven centuries. China's imperial past and political present meet at Tiananmen Square, where the Forbidden City palace of the emperors gives way to the Great Hall of the People Congress building and the Mausoleum of Chairman Mao Zedong.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a coastal city (the name itself means "on the sea"), but one which also lies at the mouth of a sizeable river: the Huangpu. The Yangtze River empties into the sea just north of Shanghai. Shanghai, an open city on the coast and a famous historical and cultural city, is a gate to the Yangtze River delta. It occupies a total area of 6,341sq.km. (of which the Pudong new area occupies 523sq.km.), and is the largest economic and trade center, a comprehensive industrial base and the leading port in China. Throughout the past century, Shanghai has had numerous name tags associated with it; like "Paris of the Orient" and "Pearl of China." What makes Shanghai particularly attractive are the many different styles of architecture and design throughout the city.

Hong Kong

Has a population of 6,900,000 of which 96% are Chinese. July 1st 1997 saw an end to British colonial rule when it was returned to China under the "One Country, Two Systems" policy. The Cantonese language is the mother tongue of the Hong Kong people but Mandarin is becoming more popular and is taught in all schools. It has become a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China'. Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy with its own currency, laws and customs. Hong Kong has developed into a very modern society. Many industries are leading the world, particularly telecommunication, banking, insurance and technology. It is one of East Asia's leading trading and transshipment centers. It has become renowned for its lifestyle and entertainment being amongst the world’s best.. Another aspect to this development and now gaining world-wide recognition is the movie industry. Many productions are now being screened around the globe.

Xi'an

Anciently known as Chang'an (meaning "eternal peace"), is the capital of Shaanxi Province and the biggest city in the northwest of China. It boasts a mild climate, fertile soil, beautiful scenery, abundant products, and numerous historical relics and sites.

It was the first city to open up its doors to the ancient world, not in 1980 under the "Open Door" policy but in fact during the Tang dynasty when Xi'an blossomed as the first stop on the Silk Road

Guilin

Former capital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (or "Guangxi"), is considered by the Chinese themselves as China's most picturesque city. Guilin also ranks second on the "Ten Best" list of Chinese tourist destinations. Guilin is situated in the northeastern quadrant of Guangxi, almost due west of Hong Kong, from which it can be reached by air in an hour's time. Li River The highlights of the Li River can be seen along the 84km waterway from Guilin to Yangshuo. Pinnacles covered in deep foliage (shrouded in mist on rainy days), clear water, deep ponds, dangerous shoals, and vistas of idyllic countryside can be seen along the river banks.

Lhasa

Capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, covers an area of 544 square kilometers and is "The Land of Gods" in Tibetan, sits on the north bank of the Tsangbo River at an altitude of 3,700 meters. It has a history of over 13 centuries. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, Lhasa is famed as the "City of Sunshine."  It is the center of Tibet's political, economic, cultural and religious activities. There are many historic sites and famous relics in the city proper and its suburbs, among which the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery and Ganden Monastery are world famous.

Popular Activities

Visit the Great Wall of China from Beijing- Trekking options are available ranging from a day hike to multi-day treks on this ancient monument. It was used to serve as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs. The Great Wall, symbolizing China's ancient civilization, is one of the world's most renowned projects.

Enjoy a Peking Duck dinner- A saying is often heard that "there are two things you must do in Beijing, to eat Beijing Roast duck and to see the Great wall."

Visit the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xi’an- A group of over 8000 figures have thus far been unearthed at the site. These figures include infantry, archers, and officers and are manufactured in a crouching or standing pose. Each figure was given a real weapon such as bronze spears, halberds or swords, or wooden crossbows with bronze fittings. It is believed these weapons date to as early as 228 BC and may have been used in actual warfare. Along with the soldiers and officers, chariots made with great detail and precision were also included as part of Qin Shi Huang’s army.

Take Yangtze River and Three Gorges Cruise- The UNESCO site of Yangtze River with Three Gorges is the third longest in the world and the largest in China with stirring, riffle water along with swirling bubbles. Many isolated small villages and numberless local temples and pagodas, along with historical sites along the riverside, exemplify the area's rich geography and history.

Stroll the Bund and Pudong in Shanghai- At night, all buildings are illuminated; it brings out the prosperity of Shanghai. In the early morning local people exercise in the Parks or at the Bund doing Taiji (Chinese Shadow boxing), Wushu (Chinese martial arts) and ballroom dancing there.

Explore the Lil River- Along the 100-kilometer stretch of the Li River, mountain peaks rise into the sky. It is one of China's most famous scenic areas.

Gaze in amazement at Tibet’s Potala Palace- Built at an altitude of 3,700 m, on the side of Marpo Ri hill, the Red Mountain in the center of Lhasa Valley, Potala Palace, with its vast inward-sloping walls broken only in the upper parts by straight rows of many windows, and its flat roofs at various levels, is not unlike a fortress in appearance. At the south base of the rock is a large space enclosed by walls and gates, with great porticos on the inner side.

Ride on the Hong Kong aerial tram for breathtaking views of this world famous city.

Visit The Forbidden City- In Beijing, it is the culmination of all imperial power constructed over a period of 14 years (1406-1420), means the "cosmological power center of the Middle Kingdom".Its extensive grounds cover 720,000 square meters, and at one time supposedly had 800 buildings and more than 8,000 rooms, though there are only 2,172 rooms that remain intact. each centered on a commanding hall conforms to the dictates of "Feng Shui", It had been for almost 600 years a mysterious and magnificent manifestation of Chinese cultural tradition and impressive art galleries. Although no longer occupied by royalty, the Forbidden City remains a symbol of Chinese aristocracy and the image of Tiananmen, the entrance to the Imperial City, appear on the seal of the People's Republic of China. The Palace Museum is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world.

Learn about Giant Pandas in Chengdu- The giant panda is beloved by people from all over the world. It is a symbol of world biodiversity conservation, peace and friendship. The giant panda is also nature's gift to Chengdu and the province of Sichuan. It is a special and highly valued resource in Chengdu. All local and foreign visitors enjoy the beauty of giant pandas. They are also deeply concerned with the current status and future of giant pandas. Giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base live in large naturalistic habitats, which help the visitor to understand how these animals live in the wild. It is an excellent recreational area and a highlight of any visit to Chengdu.

Travel programs

China is such a large and diverse country that is would be impossible to see it all in one visit.

We can work with you to customize a unique package for your group based on your specific interests, budget, and travel dates. Please inquire.

One of our more popular programs,  the 12-day  “Ancient and Modern China Highlights,” has a good mix of cultural and natural attractions included as well as some China’s most famous cities and sights. This tour can be booked anytime. Starts at $1599 per person. Trip extensions and longer/shorter programs are also available.

Itinerary for 12-day
“Ancient and Modern China Highlights”

Day 1   Arrive in Beijing.
Meet and transfer to the hotels upon arrival
HOTEL: CHANG AN GRAND HOTEL BEIJING or similar (superior class) Rest of day at leisure.

Day 2    in Beijing    (B.L.D)
This morning we start tours to Tiananmen Square and the Imperial Palace the world's largest and most extravagant: the Forbidden City of Supreme Harmony and Dignity (UNESCO). Then we visit the Imperial Gardens (also largest in the world) of the elegant Summer Palace (UNESCO).  The visit includes a cruise on the shimmering waters of Kunming Lake. After that we visit the Pandas' Garden in Beijing Zoo. It has been breeding the largest numbers of pandas as an institution away from the original habitat sites.  

Day 3  in Beijing   (B.L.D)
This morning we start tours, first to iconic Beijing 2008 Olympic Center and the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, host to many spectacular events. We stroll around the outside for photography and then we continue to the Great Wall (UNESCO), walking along its ramparts for breathtaking view of the largest man power project of the ancient world. After that we approach the mountain valley of the best geomancy site -the Ming Dynasty’s Imperial Tomb (UNESCO) Tonight we enjoy a cultural show

Day 4    in Beijing    (B.L.D)
This morning we visit another renowned imperial site- The Temple of Heaven (UNESCO), including the Imperial Hall of Pray Harvest, the Imperial Vault, and the Imperial Sacrificial Altar. In the afternoon we take an old–fashioned pedicab ride to visit historical sites behind the cit's main streets. If time allows, we also visit the famous Pearl Workshop.
Tonight we enjoy a Peking Duck Dinner  

Day 5 (Wed)   Beijing/Xi'an by air    (B.L.D)
We take a morning flight from Beijing to Xi'an, the ancient capital over 1100 years, and check into the hotel. Sightseeing that afternoon includes the Big Wild Goose Pagoda & Provincial Museum. The Big Wide Goose Pagoda Temple is regarded as a landmark site of Xi'an.  The Provincial Museum shows us Chinese archaeology’s excavation at Xi'an areas from very beginning of Chinese primogenitors of Neolithic Age 20000-8000 years ago to the glorious dynasties of 980AD. It has numerous collections and treasures on display.

Day 6  Xi'an    (B.L.D)
Full day excursion tour to the UNESCO site of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors & Bronze Chariots. We will see all excavated exhibits 1, 2 ,3, 4, and watch archaeologists continuing to excavate new areas. On the route back the city we visit the Ceramics & Pottery Center. Tonight we enjoy a Dumpling Dinner & Tang Dynasty Show.

Day 7  Xi'an/Guilin  by air   (B, L)
Leisure & fly to Guilin. Transfer to hotel.

No other scenery in the world outranks Guilin's magnificent natural landscape. The serene mountains, strangely shaped peaks, and shimmering waters make it a deserving UNESCO site.  First we visit the Reed Flute Cave, a tour to the underground crystal palace. Then we take a comfortable ride to visit the Piling Silk Hill to discover the small temples, grottoes, and experience the bird overview of beautiful landscape.

Day 8   Guilin   (B. L. D)
We start the morning on the deluxe upper deck of an air-conditioned boat along Li River for a sixty-mile cruise that reveals the beauty of the mist-wrapped peaks amidst ethnic villages. After disembarking and strolling a while in Yangshuo, we return to Guilin by car and visit the city's art gallery.

Day 9   Guilin / Shanghai by air   (B. L)
Morning at leisure and then we take a flight to Shanghai. Transfer to the hotel
Shanghai Galaxy Hotel (superior room). In the afternoon we tour the city's colonial past at The Bund, window to Shanghai's history and its modern changes.  Then we visit Xintiandi, a very well-known boutique area fusing fashion with tradition.

Day 10   Shanghai   (B, L, D)
This morning we start visit Old Downtown and classical Yu Garden. Old Downtown has many narrow zigzag lanes, small squares, fish pond and pavilions and it collects many favorite local bars, restaurants, tea houses and souvenir shops. The Yu Garden (UNESCO Site) built 400 years ago, is a famous ancient private garden with architectures of Ming and Qing dynasties.  In the evening we enjoy the Shanghai Acrobatic Show.   

Day 11   Shanghai   (B.L)
In the morning we take an excursion to the ancient water-town Zhujiajiao to see another unchanged face of Shanghai, where EPEC leaders visited while they were in Shanghai. Then we return to the city. In the afternoon we visit the Jade Buddha Temple and then you are free to explore on your own.

Day12 (Wed)   Depart Shanghai for exit   (B)  
Leisure and departure transfer to airport for homeward flight. End of tour.

Price Includes:

- 4 nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at Chang An Grand Hotel Beijing or similar
- 2 nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at Aurum International Xian or similar
- 2 nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at Park Hotel Guilin or similar
- 3 nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at Galaxy Hotel Shanghai or similar

- Tours with lunch and dinner as listed in Beijing, Xian, Guilin & Shanghai, including Peking Duck Dinner & Peking Opera in Beijing & Dumpling Dinner & Tang Dynasty Show in Xian, Acrobatic in Shanghai, Professional English-speaking tour guide service, All entry fees to sights included in the program, Round trip airport/hotel/airport transfers, All of the domestic flight air tickets, Domestic flights' airport taxes.

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