China, a journey to the pearl of the Asian continent
Did you know? Today, China is only ten hours by plane from Paris, and attracts many tourists every year eager for discovery and adventure! China is vast and can't be visited in a week, but there are some places that absolutely must be on your itinerary. Let's discover China and its unique landscapes.
China, an extraordinary cultural heritage
China is a land of astonishing majestic constructions, such as the famous Great Wall of China, the world's longest wall, stretching 5,000 kilometers from west to east. This wall is so imposing that it is the only monument visible from space, and is one of the 7 wonders of the world listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is your chance to enjoy a unique hike along the winding paths of the wall, surrounded by mountains.
In 1974, local farmers made the incredible discovery of a 2,000-year-old underground army. Today, this architectural site is one of the largest in the world, and represents Xi'an's army of terracotta soldiers, life-size figures who triumphed in the War of the States between 475 and 221 BC. You'll enjoy a unique experience on this exceptional site, witness to the history of an entire dynasty.
Then head to the outskirts of Beijing to visit the famous Forbidden City, one of the world's most important palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A perfect example of Chinese architectural talent, this palace features no fewer than 8,000 finely crafted red and gold pieces and a magnificent golden roof.
China, landscapes of extraordinary color
China is all about heritage, culture, history and traditions, but it's also about incredible landscapes that exist nowhere else. The uniqueness of these canvas-like landscapes lies in their absolutely incredible colors. The Li River in Guilin is a perfect example. If you want to take in the sights, grab your camera and set off to discover a landscape that has inspired generations of Chinese painters.
Another exceptional landscape is the rice terraces which, seen from above, have an exceptional graphic and colorful style. These hillside rice paddies are also the symbol of Chinese agriculture, and have fed the population for centuries. The best time to enjoy the most beautiful colors is from April to May.
To continue your tour of China, head for the Yellow Mountains at Huangshan, offering a unique panorama of sunrises, cloud seas and hot springs.
Shanghai, Beijing, cities to celebrate Chinese traditions
To discover Chinese traditions and fully immerse yourself in this culture, leave the countryside for the bustling cities. In Beijing, visit the Temple of Heaven, then take a stroll down Qianmen Street, the city's most touristic street brimming with stores, bars and restaurants. To discover a more authentic China, get off the beaten track and explore the surrounding streets. Beijing is also the ideal place to sample a local specialty, Peking duck. Shanghai also abounds in treasures such as the Oriental Pearl, one of the world's tallest towers.