15 Things to Do in China

21,196km of wall built over centuries to defend China's northern frontier — the greatest building project in human history.

The world's largest palace complex — 9,999 rooms used by 24 Ming and Qing emperors.

8,000 life-size terracotta warriors guarding the tomb of China's first emperor — discovered in 1974.

A river cruise through karst peak landscapes — the scenery depicted on the 20 yuan banknote.

Shanghai's iconic waterfront of colonial architecture facing the gleaming Pudong skyline — East meets West.

Towering sandstone pillar forests — inspiration for Avatar's floating mountains — accessible by glass-bottom bridge.

The greatest construction project in human history — 21,196km across China's northern mountains.

The world's largest palace complex — 9,999 rooms at the heart of imperial Beijing.

A cruise through China's most beautiful karst landscape — the painting come to life.

Chengdu's Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding — see baby pandas up close in their natural reserve.

UNESCO multi-coloured alpine lakes and waterfalls in Sichuan — China's most beautiful national park.

China's most romantic lake landscape — Su Causeway, silk museums, and Dragon Well tea hills.

Imperial lakeside garden and palace complex in Beijing — retreat of the Empress Dowager Cixi.

China's most celebrated performing art — elaborate costumes, acrobatics, and ancient storytelling.

The spiciest, most complex cuisine in China — Sichuan hotpot, mapo tofu, and dan dan noodles.