Guest Article from Wendy Wu
The team at Wendy Wu discuss China and how now is the time to beat the crowds.
Finally open after three years of isolation, the wonders of China are finally back on the traveller’s radar. Now is the time to beat the crowds and discover those incredible attractions that can only be found in the magnificent Middle Kingdom.
The Great Wall of China
Prepare to be astounded. Stretching over 13,000 miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural marvel and awe-inspiring monument to the grandeur and ingenuity of China’s imperial past. Winding its way through rugged mountains and picturesque valleys, visitors to the Great Wall are immersed in a panorama of breathtaking views, with watchtowers punctuating the horizon like sentinels of an era long gone. As you traverse this colossal masterpiece, it’s impossible not to be astonished by the ambition of its builders and enchanted by their achievement.
Giant Pandas
Revered as China’s national treasure, giant pandas captivate hearts worldwide with their playful antics and almost unbearable cuteness. Found only in China, spotting these gentle giants in the wild is nigh on impossible but luckily conservation centres in Chengdu and Chongqing provide the opportunity to meet these adorable animals in environments close to those you might find in the wild. These sanctuaries provide a blissful retreat for panda enthusiasts, offering an up-close encounter with these enchanting creatures in a serene and carefully curated environment.
The Terracotta Army
Guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, this archaeological wonder unveils a legion of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, frozen in time for over two millennia. Each intricately crafted warrior possesses a unique expression, showcasing the remarkable artistry of ancient Chinese craftsmen. Only discovered in 1974, this UNESCO World Heritage Site will wow you with its scale and intricacy. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of this archaeological marvel and let the echoes of the past captivate your imagination.
The Forbidden City
Nestled at the heart of Beijing, this UNESCO World Heritage Site unveils the secrets of dynasties past, offering a window into the opulent lives of emperors and the mystique of ancient Chinese culture. Encompassing nearly 180 acres, the vast Forbidden City boasts a stunning array of palaces, pavilions, and courtyards, each meticulously designed and adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colours. The imperial complex, with its iconic red walls and golden rooftops is a living testament to the might and majesty of China’s imperial legacy.
Shanghai
Nestled along the banks of the Huangpu River, Shanghai is a city that seamlessly marries the old and the new, a dazzling mosaic where ancient alleyways adorned with traditional architecture, intertwine with towering skyscrapers that punctuate the skyline. The Bund, with its colonial-era buildings, gazes out at the glittering skyline of Pudong across the river, creating a mesmerizing visual contrast. Offering a diverse culinary landscape, a vibrant arts scene, bustling markets, and lively cultural events, Shanghai is a city that is going places like few cities in the world.
Guilin
Nestled in the heart of southern China, Guilin’s ethereal landscapes are so surreal it seems as if they been pulled from the imagination of a painter. Renowned for its enchanting karst mountains, emerald-green rivers, and picturesque landscapes, this region has been the inspiration of artists and poets for centuries.
Cruise down the Li River, where mist-shrouded limestone peaks rise majestically from the water, explore the subterranean marvels of the Reed Flute Cave, adorned with a dazzling display of illuminated stalactites and stalagmites, or wander amongst the vertiginous terraces of the ‘Dragon’s Backbone’ at Longji, where historic villages cling to the hillsides, offering a glimpse into traditional rural life.
Yangtze River
A cruise on the Yangtze River is a captivating odyssey through the heart of China. Drifting along the longest river in Asia, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and ancient cultural treasures, a Yangtze River cruise is not just a voyage; it’s an immersion into the stirring beauty and cultural richness of China.
Witness the breathtaking Three Gorges, where sheer cliffs and mist-draped peaks create a natural spectacle, cruise through the enchanting Lesser Three Gorges, where emerald waters wind through narrow, verdant ravines and marvel at the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam, a testament to China’s technological prowess.
Wonders of China
Our best-selling tour of China encompasses all of the attractions mentioned here and so much more besides. Take a comprehensive journey through China’s most iconic sights, both ancient and modern, experiencing everything that the fast-paced bustling cities and the relaxing rural countryside have to offer.
Beijing, Great Wall, Xian, Yangtze River Cruise, Chongqing Panda House, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai
16 days Fully Inclusive Touring from £3890pp
Including: International flights, accommodation, all transportation, all meals, touring with guides, entrance fees and visa.
Use code CSPA5 to claim your 5* discount at time of booking.
To book, call our Reservations Team on 0808 239 5017 or email Keith Norman at keith@wendywutours.co.uk
