Return to eras gone by in an ancient city where the Ming and Qing dynasties rose and fell. The Forbidden City complex was once their palace; exploring its hundreds of buildings will give you a sense of their grandeur and power. Outside, the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square is a reminder of the importance of modern China on the global stage.

Recapture days gone by in this historic Chinese city. It’s best known for the Terracotta Warriors, uncovered by accident in the countryside outside the city and now a must-see for any visitor to Xian. It’s the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, who ruled in the 3rd Century BC.

Sail down the Cedar and Banyan Lakes and see the twin pagodas, called the Sun and Moon, lit up in spectacular display at night. The dramatic karst scenery of this limestone landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.

Enjoy the outdoors amidst dramatic mountainous scenery where you can cruise on the Li River and hike trails up to Green Lotus Peak. The cormorant fishermen of Yangshuo have been practising their methods for centuries.

Stroll along the Bund, a promenade on the busy Huangpu River. Across the water, you’ll see the Pudong, once an area of marshland and now home to some of the city’s most impressive skyscrapers including the Jin Mao Tower and the pink spheres of the Oriental Pearl Tower.