Audley Travel

China: the Middle Kingdom. For centuries the world’s richest and most advanced civilisation and now perhaps on its way to reclaiming that title. This is a land of a billion people and myriad landscapes, of ancient wonders and an intricate modern society stretched across an area larger than Europe.

Journey through lands where the ancient past has been rediscovered, through mountainous realms and rural landscapes whose sublime beauty has captivated artists and travellers for centuries, and visit cities where the architectural marvels of the past vie for attention with the 21st century’s grandest extravagances. Here the frenetic modern world coexists with the timeless rural rhythms of the emerald rice paddies and ancient sacred mountains. There are Taoist and Buddhist temples, classic tea-houses, labyrinthine canals and majestic palaces to explore, providing harbours of calm in the midst of the bustling modern world.

Belying its image as a homogeneous nation, China's hinterland, and in particular its southern and western regions, is home to numerous vibrant minority cultures that add colour to any classic itinerary. China is truly a country of thrilling contrasts, bursting with energy and magic.