About
China, formally the People's Republic of China, is a destination in East Asia and the most populous country in the world. It is also the second-largest economy, a combination that shapes much of what a visitor encounters, from the scale of its cities to the pace of change in daily life.
What draws visitors
China is known for its long and ancient history, and for the Great Wall, one of its most recognised landmarks. Many travellers come with the Wall high on their list, but the country offers far more than a single monument. Its historic sites sit alongside cities that have modernised quickly, so a visit often moves between the old and the new within a single day.
What a trip can look like
- Historic landmarks that reflect the country's ancient past, including the Great Wall.
- Modern cities that show the speed of its rapid modernisation.
- A country of very large population, which means crowds in busy places and a lively street life.
Because China is so large, it rewards planning. Routes between cities can be long, and the experience will vary considerably from one region to another. Travellers who set aside time to explore beyond the most famous sites tend to get a fuller sense of the country.
Whether China suits you depends on what you hope to see. If you are drawn to deep history, large-scale landmarks and the contrast of an ancient culture with a fast-changing economy, it is a destination with a great deal to offer.