More than 1 billion people live in China. That makes it the most populous country of planet Earth.
China also has one of the oldest civilizations known. Since the dawn of history, the country has been ruled by powerful dynasties that build great empires. China has produced more men of learning, great artists and philosophers than any other nations.
With so much history and culture China is sure to impress every visitor from the West. The forbidden city in Beijing, the beautiful landscapes of Guilin, the Chinese Wall, the Army of Xian, and many other places should figure on every travelers most wanted list. Shanghai is one of the fastest growing cities in the world with many high rise buildings. Hong Kong is a part of China again, but it is a travel destination of its own. Live life in the fast lane in this more than modern mega city than relax in one of the parks and beaches of the New Territories.
Those interested in history can follow the ancient Silk Road. From Beijing or Xian it takes you to Dunhuang (1000 Buddha caves), Turpan, (ghost cities), Urumqi (camp at Lake Tianzi) and Kashgar (incredible sunday market). From one end to the other that means being in the train for 64 hours and in the bus for anouther 48, but you will get an increbile experience in return. If you want to continue, from Kashgar you can take the Khunjerab pass to Pakistan, or the Torugart to Kyrgyzstan; form Urumqi you can head for the Kazakhstan.
Another interesting area to visit is the province of Yunnan - also referred to as Southwest China. The most important cities to explore are the capital Kunming and the backpacker's favorite, Dali.
Train is definitely one of the most reliable ways
to travel in China. It does not go fast, but it
gives you the unique opportunity to experience
the amazing landscape and the ever changing scenes
when you move from one province to the next. You
don't have to travel first class, but do avoid
travelling third class. It is an experience, alright, but too much experience if you have to
travel for an extensive stretch. Choose second class
or "hard-sleeper" instead. It is not great privacy,
but you'll be fine for a night.
