EXPERIENCE CHINA

After being a world power centuries ago then closing their doors to outside influences, China has opened itself up again and is taking its place preening on the world stage.

Diverse, exotic and mysterious, China is the world’s most populous country with a rich culture stretching back at least 4000 years. China is as unique as it is eclectic, from the hustle and bustle of huge cities such as Shanghai and Beijing, to the quiet introspection of the monasteries and temples. Even the cuisine varies dramatically from one province to another.

While cities such as Beijing and Shanghai are certainly must-see destinations, you can only truly appreciate this huge nation if you explore the countryside and see the contrasts it has to offer.

The once imperial capital of 11 dynasties, Xian, is a haven of archaeological wonders. It is home to the Terracotta Warriors, the famed life sized tomb guards of Emperor Qin Si Huang and the only city in China that still has its ancient city wall surrounding it.

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO SEE AND DO

The Bund –The famous Shanghai waterfront, regarded as the symbol of Shanghai for hundreds of years, is a celebration of China’s diversity. The most attractive sight on the west side are the 26 various buildings of different architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Classicism and Renaissance. Not what you’d expect in China.

Giant Pandas –How can you resist the beautiful faces of China’s oldest inhabitants? These cuddly bears are the national emblem of China and their protection is a top priority for China. The Chengdu Panda Research Base is home to 80 pandas and set up to resemble their natural surroundings of their original home in north Sichuan.

The Great Wall of China –Stretching almost 9000 kilometres long from the Gobi Desert in the west to the Bohai Sea in the east, this spectacular wall is one of China’s most famous attractions. Original construction began more than 2000 years ago to protect China from the nomad threat in the north, since then the Great Wall has been rebuilt and maintained and the majority of the existing wall is from the Ming Dynasty. The Wall is accessible from many different sections. Head to the Mutianyu or Juyongguan sections instead of Badaling as they are far less crowded. All three sections are in close proximity to Beijing.

Li River –Connecting the two beautifully picturesque spots of Guilin and Yangshuo and lined with tranquil blue waters, natural landscapes and views to die for. Highlights along the river include Elephant Trunk Mountain, a hill that resembles an elephant drinking water from the river and Seven Star Park, covering more than 120 hectares and featuring seven peaks.

KEY The Great Wall of China

MONGOLIA

BAY OF BENGAL SOUTH CHINA SEA EAST CHINA SEA YELLOW SEA CHINA

THAILAND LAOS TAIWAN SOUTH KOREA MYANMAR (BURMA) Wuhan Shanghai BEIJING Chongqing Guiyang

Guangzhou Guilin

Yangshuo Nanchang Hangzhou Hefei Qingdao Jinan Tianjin Lanzhou

Nanjing Chengdu Xian Zhengzhou Shijiazhuang Yinchuan Xining SEA OF JAPAN (EAST SEA)

JAPAN

Beijing is the thriving political and cultural heart of China and home to many remnants from China’s historical past. The Forbidden City contains the largest and best preserved collection of ancient buildings in China. Tiananmen Square and the largest imperial garden in the world, the Summer Palace, are other highlights within the city alongside teahouses, ancient temples and Hutongs (small streets). The famous Peking Duck, which is served at speciality restaurants is a must-try, along with a day at the Great Wall and the Ming Dynasty’s Imperial Tombs.

Days Inn Forbidden City

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Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing

16 Chaoyang Park Tuanjiehu Park Honglingjin Park Liangma Ba Yaowahu Park Longtan Park Ritan Park Ditian Park Liuyin Park Qingnianhu Park Rendinghu Park

Beihai Park Jingshan Park

Tiantan Park Wanfangting Taoranting Park Xuanwu Park Guanyuan Park Qian Lake Hou Lake Xi Lake Suangxiu Park Yize Park Wanquan Park Lianhuachi Park Yuyuantan Park Zizhuyuan Park

Zhongshan Park Forbidden City Yonghegong Lama Temple Zoo Exhibition Hall National Agriculture Exibition Center Xinguo Railway Station Worker’s Stadium Nature Museum Temple of Heaven South Railway Station Grand View Garden White Pagoda North Railway Station

Beijing Railway Station Guang’anmen Railway Station West Railway Station China Milenium Monument Palace Museum

Monument People´s Heroes Tian’anmen Sihui Qiao Guangqu Lu Shimen Donglu Baiziwan Lu Chenjialin Chaoyang Lu Shilipu Lu Chaoyanggongyuan Qiao Chaoyang Lu Yaojiayuan Lu Dongfeng Qiao Dongfeng Nanlu Juixianqiao Lu Xiaoyun Lu Liangmaqiao Lu Nongzhahguan Beilu Dongzhimenwai Dajie Chaoyanggongyuan Nanlu Yaojiayuan Lu Chaoyang Beilu Honglingjin Qiao Ciyunsi Qiao Guanghua Lu Dawang Qiao Guanghua Qiao Tonghui Beilu Dajiaoting Qiao Baiziwan Qiao Yaowahu Qiao Nanmofang Lu Jinsong Qiao Shuangjing Qiao Daliusu Lu Huagong Lu Sifang Qiao Shuanglong Lu Hongyan Donglu Hongyan Lu Hongyan Qiao Xiaowuji Fatou Qiao Fenzhongsi Zuo’an Lu Songyu Nanlu Zuo’anmen Qiao Fangzhuang Dong Lu Shilihe Qiao Songyu Beilu Panjiayuan Lu Jingsong Nanlu Jingsong Lu Guangming Qiao Guangming Lu Longian Lu Guangqumenwai Dajie Xizhaosi Jie Guangqumen Qiao Dongbianmen Qiao Jianguomenwai Dajie Chaoyangmenwai Dajie Jinguang Qiao Dongdaqiao Lu Gongrentiyuchang Nanlu Gongrentiyuchang Beilu Chunxiu Lu Xindong Lu Nongzhan Qiao Yansha Qiao Sanyuan Dongqiao Dongzhimenwai Xienjie Sanyuan Qiao Liufang Beijie Beisanhuan Donglu Sanyuan Xiqiao Hepingdon Qiao Anzhen Qiao Qingniangou Lu Hepingli Beijie Hepingli Dongjie Andingmenwai Daijie Andingmen Dongdajie Andingmen Xidajie Guloudong Dajie Di’anmen Dondajie Gulowai Dajie Huangsi Dajie Gulou Xidajie Chaoyangmennei Dajie Beiheyan Dajie Dongechang’an Jie Xichang’an Jie Xirongxian Hutong Xuanwumen Xidajie Qianmen Dajie Luoma Dajie Zhushikou Xidajie Yong’an Lu Beiwei Lu Zuo’anmen Xibinhe Lu Yongdingmen Dongbinhe Lu Yongdingmen Xibinhe Lu Yongdingmenwai Daije Liujiayo Lu Anlelin Lu Pufang Lu Fangu Lu Gexin Nanlu You’anmen Qiao Taiping Jie Taoranting Lu Baizhifang Xijie Baizhifang Dongjie Nanheng Xijie Niu Jie Guang’anmennei Dajie Xuanwumenwai Dajie Nan xin hua Jie Xibianmen Qiao Fuxingmen Qiao Fuxingmennei Dajie Picai Hutong Xidan Bedajie Yuetan Nanjie Yuetan Beijie Yuetan Beiqiao Yuetan Nanqiao Fayou Jie Fuchengmennei Dajie Fuchengmenwai Dajie Xishiku Dajie Xisi Bedajie Guanyuan Qiao Baiwanzhuang Dajie Chegongzhuang Dajie Ping’anli Xidajie Zhaodengyu Lu Xizhimennei Dajie Jishuitan Qiao Xinjieko Nandajie Deshengmennei Dajie Deshengmen Dongdajie Deshengmen Qiao Deshengmenwai Dajie Xinjiekouwai Dajie Beisanhuan Zhonglu Jimen Qiao Beisanhuan Xilu Beitaiping Qiao Xueyuan Nanlu Minguang Qiao Xiucheng Lu Sidaokou Lu Zuojunmiao Lu Lianxing Qiao Jiaodadong Lu Beilishi Lu Fuxingmenwai Dajie Lianhuachi Donglu Xibiamenwai Dajie Guang’anmen Qiao Lize Lu Baizhifang Qiao Caihuying Qiao Tapingqiao Lu Xijudong Jie Guang’an Lu Beifengwo Lu Fuxing Lu Yuyuantan Nanlu Fucheng Lu Zengguang Lu Sanlihe Lu Chegongzhuang Xilu Zizhuyuan Lu Dahuisi Lu Weigongcun Lu Weigong Qiao Dongsi Dajie Chaoyangmen Nanxiaojie Chaoyangmen Beixiaojie DongzhimenDajie 2nd Ring 3nd Ring 2nd Ring 3nd Ring 4nd Ring Yonghegong

Puhuangyu Liujayao Jishuitan Guloudajie Andingmen Guangximen

Sanyuanqiao Liangmaqiao

Agr. Exib. Center Tuanjiehu Hujialou Jintaizizhao Yong’anli Guomao Dawanglu Sihui Taiyanggong Shaoyaoju Hepingxiqiao National Library Dazhongai Weigongcun Renmin Univ.

Muxidi Junshibowuguan Gonzhufen Dongsishitiao

www.bc-maps.com info@bc-maps.com B 1 2 3 Set in a great location, this simple hotel is a short walk to Wanfujing Street, Tiananmen Square and as its name suggests, the Forbidden City. Start your day with breakfast, then check up on the daily events with a free newspaper or catch up with loved ones back home with the use of complimentary WiFi. Explore the vibrant surrounding areas for the day either on foot or you may like to hire a bicycle from concierge. A comfortable guest room awaits after a day of exploration. Ideally located in the Wangfujing neighbourhood, this hotel is within walking distance of the city’s best shopping and renowned tourist attractions. Modern guest rooms offer comfort along with thoughtful amenities including complimentary WiFi. Choose from two on-site restaurants including the stylish Bloo Dining with its innovative and unique flavour combinations; or Oodle, with its exciting array of Japanese and Chinese noodle dishes – enjoy the casual yet stylish atmosphere and see what makes Oodle one of Beijing’s can’t-miss destinations for noodles. For those in search of a refreshing beverage or handcrafted cocktail, head to First Lounge Bar. Regent Beijing Hotel The Regent Beijing occupies a prime position in the Wangfujing district close to all major attractions. Each of the spacious rooms are decorated with modern artworks and fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows and large marble bathrooms. With complimentary WiFi, an indoor swimming pool, gym, full service spa and five top class restaurants and lounges, you’ll have everything you need. 3

SIGHTSEEING

THE ART OF SHAOLIN KUNG FU This thrilling modern day theatrical production brings together traditional Chinese martial arts in a vibrant show atmosphere. Journey with a young boy who dreams of becoming a Kung Fu Master. With highly skilled performers, this all kung fu show will no doubt leave you sitting on the edge of your seats, gasping in awe.

EMPEROR’S TOUR This private tour showcases Beijing’s highlights. Visit Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest and most renowned public square. The Forbidden City, where emperors ruled, is next. After lunch, enjoy the largest imperial garden in the world at the Summer Palace, then finish up at an imperial complex of buildings at the Temple of Heaven.

PEDAL BEIJING The humble bicycle is a common form of transport throughout the world and in Beijing it is no different. Offering a different perspective, take to a bicycle and cycle along the Forbidden City moat along with some of the quieter backstreets for a real insight into Beijing life.

HUTONG BITES There’s no denying that Beijing is a huge city and we’ve found that the best way to explore the myriad of streets is travelling by none other than tuk tuk. On this evening tuk tuk food tour, wind your way through the hutong alleys of Beijing where the locals live and eat - discover and taste dishes you would never have found on your own.

UNDERGROUND PALACE & MUTIANYU GREAT WALL Explore the Dingling Tomb, followed by an adventure to Mutianyu Great Wall. Offering a great alternative to the popular Badaling section, this portion of China's ancient engineering marvel is much steeper and affords magnificent views.

Shanghai is an exhilarating and modern metropolis that epitomizes the philosophy of East meets West. The classical Art Deco buildings on the Bund contrast with the modern skyscrapers of Pudong towering above the city on the opposite banks of the Huangpu River. From the Bund explore the ever popular Nanjing Road, a bustling pedestrian shopping street. Don’t miss the Yu Gardens, an ancient old gem and a fine example of Ming Court Gardens or the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s few active Buddhist monasteries.

Holiday Inn Express Zhabei

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Central Hotel

Holiday Inn Express Zhabei is strategically located in the north square of the Shanghai Railway Station, close to the Shanghai long-distance Bus Terminal and a 5 minute walk to the nearest subway station. Nanjing Road and the fabulous cafés and restaurants in Xintiandi are all within a 15-20 minute drive away. Rooms are spacious, functional and well presented. Conveniently located in the shopping and business district and adjacent to the Nanjing Road pedestrian street, the Central Hotel brings guests convenience for business, sightseeing and entertainment purposes. A total of 27 floors covering 319 luxurious rooms, with seven distinctly styled restaurants and bars, multifunction rooms, fitness centre and sauna. The convenience of the location and the state-of-the-art facilities has made the Central Hotel a popular choice.

Shanghai Museum Yu Garden Grand Theatre Railway Station Jade Buddha Temple Zhujiajiao Water Town Orient Pearl Tower International Passenger Terminal Jinmao Tower Municipal People´s Congress Xintiandi World Trade Financial Center The Bund North Railway Station Li Yang Lu Huangpu River Huangpu River Pearl Park Lujiazui Park Huaihai Park Renmin Park Jiaotong Park Fuxing Park Xiangyang Park Riverside Park Gucheng Park Sichuan North Park Beijing Dong Lu Wusong River Shanxi Nan Lu Tianmu Lu Shimen Yi Lu Dongchangzhi Lu Wusong Lu Wu Jing Lu Sichuan Lu Qufu Xi Lu Zizhong Lu Changle Lu Taicang Lu Fujian Bei Lu Fujian Lu Beisuzhou Lu Fuyou Lu Fuzhou Lu Guangdong Lu Sichuan Nan Lu Jiangxi Lu Zhejiang Zhong Lu Jinling Dong Lu Maoning Nan Lu Maoming Bei Lu Jiaotong Lu Fengyang Lu Gongping Lu Xinxia Lu Shang Cheng Lu Weifan Lu Tangqu Lu Goayang Lu Dantu Lu Haimen Lu Kunshan Lu Zapu Lu Qiu Jiang Lu Huijiao Lu Xinzha Lu Jinyuan Lu Suzhou Lu Huanghe Lu Jiujiang Lu Nanjing Lu Hankou Lu Shan Xi Nan Lu Tianjin Lu Guizhou Lu Guangxi Nan Lu Ningbo Lu Nanjing Xi Lu Hanzhong Lu Xin Zha Lu Wuding Xi Lu Datian Lu Taixing Lu Donghu Lu Julu Lu Xiangyang Bei Lu Jinxian Lu Yandang Lu Nanchang Lu Gaolan Lu Xingan Lu Danshui Lu Madang Lu Huangpi Nan Lu Dongtai Lu Shouning Lu Jian Lu Jiujiaochang Lu Wenmiao Lu Penglai Lu Fangbang Zhong Lu Fangbang Lu Xueyuan Lu Dongjie Xundao Jie Guangqi Nan Lu Jintan Lu Ninghe Lu Meijia Jie Qiaojia Lu Zhoujin Lu Maojiayuan Lu Zixia Lu Wangjiamaotou Lu Wangjiazujiao Walma Lu Hubin Lu Jinan Lu Nanjing Lu Xichang Lu Tianmu Xi Lu Menggu Lu Zhonghua Lu Pushan Lu Jiaotong Lu Yunan Lu Jinling Xi Lu Dajin Lu Sipailou Baidu Lu Menghua Lu Guangqi Lu Tiantong Lu Emel Lu Yuhang Lu Shangqiu Lu Dongdaming Lu Huoshan Lu Changyang Lu Huahai Zhong Lu Huaihai Dong Lu Fuxing Zhong Lu Wusheng Lu Huangpi Beilu Weihai Lu Renmin Da Dao Xizang Lu Xizang Zhong Lu Shimen Er Lu Bei Jing Xi Lu Zhongxin Lu Zhongshan Lu Henan Bei Lu Henan Zhong Lu Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu Yanan Dong Lu Renmin Lu Zhongshan Dong Er Lu Xi Zang Nan Lu Fu Xing Dong Lu Renmin Lu Henan Lu Zhangyang Lu Pudong Nan Lu Fucheng Lu Pucheng Lu Lujiazuihuan Lu Yincheng Lu Pudong Da Dao Yincheng Bei Lu Fenghe Lu Pudong Dong Lu Hai Lun Lu Xinjian Lu Dalian Lu Chong Qing Nan Lu Chengdu Lu Gonghe Xi Lu Hai Ning Lu Yanan Zhong Lu Shi Ji Da Dao Laoximen South Shan Xi Rd. People’s Square West Nanjing Rd. Hanzhong Rd. North Sichuan Rd. Zhongxin Rd.

Lu Jia Zui

Shang Chen Rd. 1

2 3 Radisson Blu Shanghai New World With an idyllic location on Nanjing Road adjacent to People’s Square and the Shanghai metro, this hotel offers a blend of modern style and distinctive architecture – highlighted by the impressive 208 metre tower that punctuates the city skyline. Visit the spa, or enjoy the fitness facilities including a jacuzzi, swimming pool, steam room and sauna as well as a full gym. Tempt your taste buds with flavours from around the world at any of the five dining outlets and see the city like never before from your seat at Epicure on 45, the revolving restaurant that features stunning Shanghai views, or you may prefer to head to the Sky Dome Bar located on the 47th floor, combining incredible views, lighting, music and signature drinks. 3

SIGHTSEEING

BEST OF SHANGHAI Visit the Yu Gardens – a famous classical garden completed in 1577, then on to the adjoining old town with its ancient winding streets, traditional shop houses and remnants of the ancient city walls. Head to the Jade Buddha Temple, the Bund followed by Xintiandi, a stylish nightlife district with many boutiques, pubs and restaurants.

SHANGHAI LIGHTS & HUANGPU RIVER CRUISE Enjoy a short walk along the lively Nanjing Road, followed by a cruise on the Huangpu River. Admire both sides of the river - Pudong and Puxi. Take a walk along the Bund, a buoyant area with many of the older buildings now home to various chic pubs and restaurants.

SHANGHAI EVENING FOOD TOUR There's no better way to experience the bustling streets of Shanghai than by foot, with a specially created authentic culinary experience! Discover neighbourhoods and restaurants that you would never find on your own all while enjoying the best food with locals.

HANGZHOU: HEAVEN ON EARTH Find your inner artist with a visit to Hangzhou, a city with inviting views and outstanding scenery. The area is popular with numerous artists, poets and painters seeking inspiration in this little bit of paradise. Cruise across the West Lake, visit a traditional Chinese garden and the Meijiawu Tea Plantation. ENCHANTING WATERWAYS Experience two picturesque water towns, Suzhou and Zhouzhuang, each unique in the splendours they reveal. Suzhou is one of the oldest towns in the Yangtze basin and boasts interconnected waterways. Zhouzhuang features simple architecture and is also known for its beautiful environment.

A world renowned ancient capital with over 3000 years of history, Xian boasts a rich legacy of historical sites and cultural relics. It is home to the Terracotta Warriors, the famed life sized tomb guards of the Emperor Qin Si Huang which had lain underground for over 2000 years before being rediscovered in 1974. Also worth visiting is Xian’s famous landmark, the ancient and well preserved Big Goose Pagoda and the Banpo Museum, home to a 6000 year old Neolithic village. Don’t miss an opportunity to roam the ancient city walls for great views of the Drum Tower and Bell Tower.

Campanile Xian Bell Tower

Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure with a stay at this hotel you’ll find yourself centrally located and within walking distance to key attractions of Xian including the Drum Tower, Bell Tower, the Muslim Quarter and the Great Mosque. The Zhonglou subway station is also a 10 minute walk away. After a day of exploration, relax in the comfort of simplistic yet modern guest rooms and make use of the complimentary WiFi.

Grand Mercure on Renmin Square

Grand Park Xian

A heritage hotel located in the grounds of Renmin Square, a sprawling area of gardens, heritage structures, luxury hotels and homes. The property reflects the Sino Russian style of architecture, which is steeped in revolutionary history. There are 194 well-appointed rooms, a restaurant and bar. Extra dining and recreational facilities of the Sofitel Renmin Square can be utilised which is just next door. Overlooking Xian City Wall, this hotel boasts an imposing facade with tiled roofs that evoke the grandeur of an ancient palace. Ideally located it is within walking distance to the main tourist attractions, restaurants and parks. For enhanced wellbeing, the newly renovated Crystal Club Lounge offers the discerning travellers a host of exclusive benefits.

Terracotta Warriors Tour Breakfast by Tuk Tuk City Wall Biking, Art & Calligraphy

Start the day visiting the 2000 year old site of the Terracotta Warriors which remain stunningly well preserved: a vigilant force standing guard over an ancient imperial burial site. The life-sized terracotta warriors and warhorses were discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well. Then visit the Banpo Museum, home to a 6000 year old Neolithic village followed by a Ceramics and Pottery Centre and Emperor Qinshuihuang’s Mausoleum. Pair cycling and calligraphy on this half day tour. Dominated by its well-preserved ancient city walls, take a leisurely bicycle ride along Xian’s walls and enjoy the amazing views. At Tangbo Art Museum, gain an insight into Chinese art history and traditional calligraphy, with the opportunity to produce your own creation. See how Xian wakes up by eating shoulder to shoulder with locals on this morning tuk tuk experience. Ride through the narrow streets of Xian to visit family-owned restaurants who make the best local dishes in front of you. Sample from street stalls that are only open during dawn, often selling out quickly!

Chengdu and the Sichuan province are famous for their Sichuan cuisine, which many in China believe to be the best in the country. Though a modern city, life in Chengdu takes place on the back streets where crowds are waiting outside hot-pot restaurants and tea houses are abuzz with mahjong players. Pandas are native to the surrounding Sichuan province and have long been the city’s most famous attraction, not to mention its cutest.

Holiday Inn Express Chengdu Gulou

Buddha Zen Hotel

With a stay at this hotel, visit Chunxi pedestrian street for Chengdu’s best shopping, a 20 minute walk away, stop for tea at one of the traditional teahouses nearby, or enjoy a folk performance at the Sichuan Opera Theatre, just 10 minutes away. Spread out in your comfortable, air-conditioned guest room and catch up with loved ones back home with complimentary WiFi. Oozing character and charm, this boutique hotel is located adjacent to the ancient Wenshu Monastery, where you can listen to Buddhist sermons and smell incense. The design of the hotel follows the spirit of Buddha Zen with the combination of traditional Chinese aesthetics. Guest rooms incorporate traditional elegance, perfectly matched with precious embroideries and valuable antiques.

Renaissance Chengdu Hotel

In this city's ancient tea tradition, attention to detail is everything. And while it has a bold, modern aesthetic, the same can be said of this hotel. Centrally located at South Renmin Road, just north of Tianfu Interchange Bridge, the hotel is steps from the metro and close to top sights such as the Giant Panda Research Centre, Wuhou Temple and International Exhibition Centre.

Chengdu’s Giant Panda

Undoubtedly this is a highlight tour. Visit and learn about the panda at the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The panda is an iconic symbol of China and is strictly protected by the Chinese government. In a semi-natural environment, the centre is dedicated to learning more about these amazing animals and helping increase their numbers with a successful panda breeding program.

Sichuan Eats

Explore Leshan and The Giant Buddha

Tuk tuks, dumplings, beer, noodles, local alcohol, spicy sichuan dishes and a few more surprises sum up this delicious off-thebeaten-path evening experience. Zip through the streets of Chengdu via tuk tuk – indulge in unsurpassed dumplings, sip on homemade Chinese wine, test your spice tolerance levels and try all of Chengdu's famous noodle varieties to find your favourite! Escape the city and explore Leshan with its natural landscape and wealth of cultural relics. Home to the Leshan Giant Buddha, an enormous 70 metre high sitting Buddha, it is the tallest stone Buddha statue in the world. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage-site, work on the Buddha begun in the year 713 in the Tang Dynasty, with the statue taking people more than 90 years to carve.