Roughly the size of the United States, China spans glacial mountains, lush rainforests, and dense, multifaceted cities.
Hong Kong
Bound by mountains and anchored by skyscrapers, Hong Kong is China's most photogenic city. The booming economic capital is dotted with luxury hotels, the best restaurants in China, and some of the best shopping in the world. It’s also tax-free. See our Hong Kong Travel Guide
Macau
Once a sleepy outpost, Macau has become a thriving gambling destination (the city recently overtook Vegas in the amount of money moving across its game tables). Macau also boasts colonial-era architecture and UNESCO heritage status. See our Macau Travel Guide
Shanghai
Many of China’s trends take root here, in the country’s economic and commercial capital. While the ultramodern skyline looks to the future, the city's villas and 19th century Bund mansions are whispers of an elegant past. See our Shanghai Travel Guide
Hangzhou
Occupying a unique spot in Chinese hearts, tranquil Hangzhou and its mystical West Lake with its temples and pagodas, have inspired generations of emperors, poets, and peasants.
Beijing
China's political capital is a vast, initially bewildering city that encapsulates China's imperial past, current societal growing pains, and Olympic-fueled spring toward tomorrow. See our Beijing Travel Guide
Xi'an
Located southwest of Beijing, Xi'an has always been a meeting point for divergent cultures. Once China's capital, Xi'an was the starting point of the legendary Silk Road trade route to Europe.
Yunnan Province
The Yunnan Province, near Tibet in the mountainous southwest, is rich with dramatic alpine scenery, picturesque towns, and 24 ethnic groups that offer a glimpse into life beyond the bright lights of urban China.
Qingdao
A summer retreat for China’s political elite, this attractive coastal city will host the 2008 Olympic Sailing Regatta. A former German colony, Qingdao combines European architecture with Chinese beach culture.
Tibet
The “Roof of the World,” Tibet’s landscape is a tapestry of soaring snow-caps, spiritual lakes, and isolated Buddhist monasteries. A two-day train across virgin terrain now operates from both Shanghai and Beijing to the Tibetan capital, Lhasa. See our Tibet Travel Guide
Hainan Island
Located off China’s southern tip, Hainan shares Hawaii’s altitude. A year-round semi-tropical sun spot, you’ll find white-sand beaches, five-star hotels, water sports, and golf.
Nanjing
China’s Republican-era capital is a historical treasure trove. Visit the Ming-era city walls, former Presidential Palace, and Purple Gold Mountain – whose shady canopy protects the mausoleum of the Father of Modern China, former President Sun Yat-Sen.
Harbin
Close to the Siberian border, January in Harbin is a winter wonderland. The month-long Snow & Ice Festival showcases giant sculptures of global landmarks, Chinese palaces, and natural attractions.
