Tailormade Tour Guide

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CHINA tailormade tour guide

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China brief Introduction & Climate map & Traditional Festival Explore China Top 10 Recommended Destinations Major Airport in China Top Airlines in China Train station in Major cities Type of train in China Top 10 Recommended Historic Attractions Top 10 Recommended Natural Beauties Top 10 Recommended beautiful Towns Top Minority Cities Most Popular Chinese Dishes China Currency and Exchange Info Electricity and Voltage Helpful Numbers Visa for China

Flexible, Time-saving, Fast & Easy Tailor-making Procedure Novaland Tours Clients’ Photos China Brief Introduction

China, officially the People's Republic of China (PRC), is a unitary sovereign state in East Asia and the world's most populous country, with a population of over 1.381 billion.Covering approximately 9.6 million square kilometers (3.7 million square miles), it is the world's second-largest state by land area and third- or fourth-largest by total area. Governed by the Communist Party of China, it exer- cises jurisdiction over 22 provinces, five autonomous regions,four direct-controlled municipalities (Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, and Chongqing) and the Special Administrative Regions Hong Kong and Macau, also claiming sovereignty over Taiwan. China is a great power and a major regional power within Asia, and has been characterized as a potential superpower.

China emerged as one of the world's earliest civilizations in the fertile basin of the Yellow River in the North China Plain. For millennia, China's political system was based on hereditary monarchies, or dynasties, beginning with the semi-legendary Xia dynasty. Since then, China has then expanded, fractured, and re-unified numerous times. In 1912, the Republic of China (ROC) replaced the last dynasty and ruled the Chinese mainland until 1949, when it was defeated by the communist People's Liberation Army in the Chinese Civil War. The Communist Party established the People's Republic of China in Beijing on 1 October 1949, while the ROC government retreated to Taiwan with its present de facto temporary capital in Taipei. Both the ROC and PRC continue to claim to be the legitimate government of all China, though the latter has more recognition in the world and controls more territory.

Climate zone and Map

In China, a vast land spanning many degrees of latitude with complicated terrain, climate varies radically. China has a variety of temperature and rainfall zones, including continental monsoon areas. In winter most areas become cold and dry, in summer hot and rainy.

Five Temperature Zones

Temperatures vary a great deal. Influ- enced by latitude and monsoon activities, in winter, an isotherm of zero degrees traverses the Huaihe Riv- er-Qinling Mountain-southeast Qing- hai-Tibet Plateau. Areas north of the isotherm have temperatures below zero degrees and south of it, above zero. Mohe in Heilongjiang can hit an average of 30 degrees centigrade below zero, while the temperature of Sanya in Hainan Province is above 20 degrees. In summer, most of areas are above 20 degrees centigrade despite the high Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and other mountains such as Tian- shan. Among these hot places, Turpan Basin in Xinjiang is the center for intense heat at 32 centigrade on average.

Cold-Temperate Zone: north part of Heilongjiang Province and Inner Mongolia (Representative city: Harbin)

Mid-Temperate Zone: Jilin, northern Xinjiang, and most of Heilongjiang, Liaoning, and Inner Mongolia (Representative cities: Beijing, Shenyang, Dalian, Urumqi, Hohhot, Dunhuang, Lanzhou)

Warm-Temperate Zone: area of the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, Shandong, Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Hebei Province (Representative cities: Xian, Taiyuan, Luoyang, Jinan, Qingdao, Zhengzhou)

Subtropical Zone: South of isotherm of Qinling Mountain-Huaihe River, east of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (Representative cities: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Macau, Guilin, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Chengdu)

Tropical Zone: Hainan province, southern Taiwan, Guangdong, and Yunnan Province (Representative cities: Haikou, Sanya)

Plateau Climate Zone: Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (Representative city: Lhasa)

Festival Name Date Customs

Chinese New Year 1st - 15th of the first pasting scrolls, the character 'Fu', and paper-cuts pictures, lunar month setting-off firecrackers and fireworks, paying New Year visits, and eating jiaozi. Lantern Festival 15th day of the first watching lanterns and fireworks, guessing lantern riddles, lunar month performing folk dances, and eating yuanxiao. Qingming Festival April 4th or 5th of the tomb sweeping, spring outings, and flying kites. solar calendar Dragon Boat Festival 5th day of the 5th lunar dragon boat racing, eating zongzi, wearing a perfume month pouch and tying five-colour silk thread, and hanging mug- wort leaves and calamus. Double Seventh Festival 7th day of seventh lunar praying for skillful hands, appreciating the stars, and month eating noodles, jiaozi, and wontons.

Mid-autumn Festival 15th day of the 8th appreciating and offering sacrifice to the moonlight and lunar month eating moon cakes. Chongyang Festival 9th day of the 9th lunar eating Chongyang cake, drinking chrysanthemum wine, month climbing mountains and appreciating beautiful chrysanthe- mums. Winter Solstice Dec. 21st, 22nd or 23rd having dumplings in northern areas and having sticky in solar calendar puddings in southern areas Laba Festival 8th day of the 12th eating laba rice porridge. lunar month

I’d love travel very much, every well planned and enjoyable trips became a unforgettable experience in part of my life. After hard works, I was always dreaming to visit different cities in different countries, it is not necessary to be a luxury and expensive trip, but a leisure and budget tour. In my mind, traveling is life's most luxurious enjoyment, so I want to arrange a wonderful trip for my parents.

I cannot wait to share my idea with my parents, I believe they would love of my plan. When I announce travel proposals, my father interrupted me, said he doesn't like to travel, he don't want to go out. I am very surprised why he is so against to it. They are not young, it is the time to enjoy life.

"My dear dad, you used to travel a lot, why you want to quit this time?" I asked.

He answer: “You are right, I’ve done lots of travel before, but none of them could really let me enjoy the time. I had to wake up early morning every day, and rush to each so-call must-to-visit tourism site with very short visiting time or only a photo time; also, I had been forced to shopping, without any consumes, you would receive anger from tour guide immediately. I would rather staying at home than paying money for nothing. Most importantly, many of the tour attractions arranged factually are not what I love. I don’t think I enjoyed them but wasted my time and money.

Now, I see what my dad worry about. He always took very old fashioned traveling: Group Depar- ture, which provides economic price with shopping sites, but everything is fixed, you have to stick to all arrangements provided, and there is no chance to have your own time for your favorites, and follow your own interested itinerary.

I explained my dad, we will choose a totally different style of traveling, a Tailor-made itinerary as per our requests, there will be no forced shopping, no rushing, we see what we would like to see, we go where we are really interested in. Finally, dad agreed to go.

Since then, I was thinking what if there was a travel company could do things as below: to tailor made very travel enthusiasts a unique trip, which will be enjoyable, leisure, full of fun and unforgettable memories. The traveling supposed not to be the way as my dad’s through; it ought to be : a road full of fun and happiness; a place where you could totally relax; very spots and destination will inspire you; experiencing a different life, which could be beautiful, warm or delightful; it will be unforgettable even you've return home. I guess, it might be the biggest enjoyment of travel.

The Tailor-made Tour Specialist(TTS) In Novaland Tours (NLT), who are familiar in every tourism spots, hotels, transportation, food, attractions in every destinations you are willing to go; fully understand what are your interests; provides you a one-on-one service, design you an exclusive trip ; arrange you appropriate tour guide, driver and hotel ect. let you totally out of tedious prepared and bad experience in the line

So right now, do not waste your time, let’s traveling out, to see the world attentively. Let’s bring real enjoyments back. This is what NTL’s goal is and what we insist to reach.

10 Reasons Why Novaland Tours is #1 in Tailor-making Tour and You Should Choose Our Good Tour Service in

1. Tailor-making What You Really Love 2. Tailor-made Tour Specialist 3. Flexible, Time-saving, Fast, and Easy Tailor-making Procedure 4. Tailor-made Travel Price According to Your Personal Needs 5. See a Real China 6. In-depth Experience Distinctive China Culture 7. Worry Free Customer Service 8. 4 Principles of Reception in Travel 9. Standardized and Experienced Management of Reception 10. Wonderful Membership Benefits

Tailor-made Travel / Tailor-making What You Really Love Novaland Tours are very proud to give you a better travel experience. We specialize in tailor-made tour service based on your personal interests, tastes and budget. Your entire holiday is designed around your personal needs. Explore your interests at your own speed. Enjoy the tour what you really love. Tailor-made Tour Specialist Our Tailor-made Tour Specialists (TTS) are experienced and well-trained. Your 1-on-1 TTS pays attention to knowing you — your goals, desires, preferences, etc. He/she is patient, on standby 24-7, and full of useful suggestions. He/she wants to become your friend, think what you think, to arrange your best unique tailor-made tour. Flexible, Time-saving, Fast, and Easy Tailor-making Procedure It could be so painful to plan a wonderful tour before journey. You need to do so much studying during your busy daytime job & life. In the end, you probably found that you still have not studied well to arrange a really good tour. In Novaland, you don’t need much time to study but just tell us your favorites, and we do the rest. It is flexible, time-saving, fast and easy. Tailor-made Travel Price According to Your Personal Needs Tailor-making tour according to your travel budget. For us, tailor-making is not equal to high price. One enjoyable tour must be operated in a reasonable and worthy budget. Although it is truth that you get what you pay for, but it needs the help of professional judgment of what are really suitable for you. How much you spend is closely bound up the tour characteristics you choose. If you are comfortably fixed for money, we can provide more choice and more noble experience. But if you don’t want to live frugally after finishing travel, we will definitely recommend you cost-effective, affordable characteristic experience.

In-depth Experience Distinctive China Culture in-depth experience distinctive China culture Get beyond the tourist facade of the countries and enjoy a cultural holiday. Focus on the local culture, past and present, and discover the lifeblood of any country (people) Worry Free Customer Service Over 98% good & excellent satisfaction. 24/7 care while in travel. First time responses and 100% satisfaction of problem-solving. Money back guarantee.

4 Principles of Reception in Travel 4 Principles of Reception for local tour guides, drivers and other suppliers to stan- dardize and ensure service quality and improving customer satisfaction. Principle 1: Who Serves, Who Answers for; Principle 2: Integral Cooperation Service; Principle 3: Standard Excellent Service, Customer First; Principle 4: People First, Safe Tour.

Standardized and Experienced Management of Reception We are strongly capable of managing every parts of travelling, tour guides, drivers, cars, meals, etc. We have strict, experienced and the whole instructions, rules and specifications to supervise our tour guides, drivers, etc to serve our guests better. Even for emergency problems, we have concluded for a long time and full of experience how to deal with them well. Our operation team are full of passion of nev- er-stop-pursing best service. We don’t fear problems or dissatisfactions but will deem them the pedals to be the best one.

Wonderful Membership Benefits After booking one tour with us, get long-term benefits of Novaland Travel Club. For example: Free-design tailor-made itineraries whenever you need. Free travel guide books regularly elaborately designed for many countries. Freely join in membership activities. Membership club points for gifts. Exclusive tour packages for members. One community for making new friends with same interests. And many other Nova- land Travel Club benefits.

◆ Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, has served as a capital of the country for more than 800 years. The city has many places of historic interest and scenic beauty, including the Forbidden City - the largest and best-preserved ancient architectural complex in the world; the Temple of Heaven - where Ming and Qing emperors performed solemn rituals for bountiful harvests; the Summer Palace - the emperors' magnificent garden retreat; the Ming Tombs - the stately and majestic mausoleums of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors; and the world-renowned and genuinely inspiring Badaling section of the Great Wall

◆ Shanghai

Shanghai is one of the world largest seaports and China major industrial as well as commercial center. With the deepening reform, the city, formerly crowned as the financial, economic and trade hub of the Far East, is playing a leading role in boosting economic development of China. Meanwhile, the city has attracted more and more tourists from home and abroad for its unique charm. As one of the noted historic and cultural citied in the country, Shanghai has more than 70 sites of historical interest and cultural relics, which best represent the distinctive characteristic of Shanghai regional culture. What is more, Shanghai is the Paradise of gourmets, who may find thousands of restaurants here that serve a complete list of China's major famous cuisines and various foreign foods.

◆ Xi’an Xian, an ancient capital of China, is your gateway to know about ancient Chinese civilization. In its 3,100 recorded years of evolution, it has been the capital of 13 dynasties, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, the Sui, and Tang dynasties, periodically from the 11th century B.C. to the early 10th century AD. Touring in Xi'an, you can breathe the historical air from all the must-see spots. major attractions in Xi'an include the Qin Terracotta Army - "the 8th wonder of the world", the Big Wild Goose Pagoda - the most outstanding landmark of Xi'an, Banpo Neolithic Village Museum - the remains of a 6,000 year-old village once home to a matriarchal clan community, and the Xi'an City Wall which stretches round the old city.

Hong Kong is located on south coast of China, 60 km (37 mi) east of Macau on the opposite side of the Pearl River Delta, north to Shengzhen. It boards Guangdong city of Shenzhen to the north over the Shenzhen River, Wanshan Islands of Zhuhai in Guangdong Province to the south. It consists of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories and other 262 small islands. Hong Kong is a highly prosperous international metropolis now, and one of the third largest financial centers in the world. Hong Kong is famous for magnificient city view with lots of skyscrapers and shopping.

◆ Guilin

Situated in South China, Guilin is like a glittering pearl on a green carpet, the scenery here enjoys the praise of "top landscape in the world". The name of the city is derived from the cassia tree called "Guihuashu" in Chinese. One can see the green cassia trees standing at the most roadsides in the town. When the autumn comes, the fragrance of the blossom fills up the air making passengers refreshing and relaxed. In addition, the golden flowers are very pleasing to the eyes. Guilin is a world-famous scenic city, famous for its unrivalled karst landscape, exquisite mountains, limpid rivers, wired caves and beautiful rocks. Besides the unparallel scenery, the city also boasts its time-honored history. Guilin has been the political, economic and cultural center of Guangxi since more than 1,000 years ago. The Lingqu Canal built 214 B.C. in Xing'an County has witnessed the change during these 2,000 years.

◆ Guangzhou Guangzhou, the capital city of Guangdong Province, is nicknamed the City of Goat. As a city of historic and cultural significance, it is the largest industrial and commercial city and the largest important and export port in South China. It enjoys a humid climate all year around, and flowers blossom in all four seasons, hence its another nickname "the City of Flowers". There are over 150 historical sites and places of interests in the city, plus various modern entertainment facilities. Here, the China Guangdong Export Commodities Fairs is held twice every year. ◆ Chengdu Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a famous historical and cultural city with a history over 3,000 years. Known as the land of abundance, Chengdu boasts plentiful local products, a pleasant climate, a large number of scenic spots and historical sites, and fine traditional handicrafts well known both at home and abroad. According to the records and relics, there was human being living on this piece of land about 3,700 years ago. It is about 2,300 years ago the ninth king Kaiming of ancient Shu State moved his capital to the site and named it 'Chengdu'. Then the name has been kept until today.

Knowing what you really love is important. Your preferences, interests, favorite attractions, habits, travel purpose & http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.html http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.html budget, etc, please feel free to http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.htmlfill in the form. Or send email to [email protected]. Then we can tailor-make _8 your most suitable tour proposal free of charge. Easy & save your time! ◆ Huangshan Huangshan is steeped in picturesque natural landscapes and history. Marvel at the peculiarly-shaped rocks and pines on the Yellow Mountains, appreciate the ancient-styled dwellings in Xidi and Hongcun villages. Most recommended attractions: the Yellow Mountains, Xidi Village, Hongcun Village. Unique experience: spectacular mountain views, sea of clouds, photography tour, enjoy a hot spring, visit ancient villages. The Yellow Mountains give people a stunning mountain views, and ancient villages present ancient China's elegance and tranquility with well-preserved ancient folk houses and flowing rivers.

◆ Suzhou

Suzhou is famous for the water towns around it and its traditional Chinese gardens. The gardens harmoni- ously mix man-made landscapes with natural scenery: architecture, painting, calligraphy, and horticulture are combined, and enclosed like pearls by walls. China's water towns hold the quintessential image of traditional Chinese villages. Most recommended attractions: Humble Administrator's Garden, Lingering Garden, Tongli Ancient Town, the Grand Canal. Unique experience: visit classic gardens, relax in quiet water towns, enjoy boating on the Grand Canal. 30 minutes by high-speed train from Shanghai, 5 hours from Beijing, it is very convenient to combine Beijing, Shanghai, and Suzhou in a tour.

◆ Lhasa

Lhasa, capital of Tibet, is the center of Tibetan cultural and religious life. Most tourists enter Tibet via Lhasa. Outside the city is Tibet's wealth of natural wonders and holy sites, from Lake Namtso to Mt. Everest, to Mount Kailash. Most recommended attractions: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Mount Everest, Barkhor Street, Sera Monastery, Yamdrok Lake. Unique experience: explore the highest palace, see pilgrims, camp at Mount Everest's base, watch monks debate, visit picturesque holy lakes. "Lhasa" is Tibetan for "place of the gods", and is revered as such. There are many sites and religious sites in the city proper and its suburbs. At Barkhor Street, visitors can go souvenir hunting, rub shoulders with locals, and experience the sacred "one step one bow" way to religion.

Beijing Capital International Airport (IATA: PEK, ICAO: ZBAA) is the main international airport serving Beijing. It is located 32 km (20 mi) northeast of Beijing's city center, in an enclave of Chaoyang District and the surround- ings of that enclave in suburban Shunyi District. Beijing Capital International Airport is the main hub for Air China, the flag carrier of the People's Republic of China, which flies to around 120 destinations (excluding cargo) from Beijing.

Beijing Capital International Airport Terminals The airport has three terminals. Terminal 1 serves the domestic routes of Hainan Airlines and its subsidiaries (while its international routes and Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau flights operate from Terminal 2). Terminal 2 serves China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, SkyTeam members and other domestic and international flights. Terminal 3, the newest terminal, serves Air China, Star Alliance and Oneworld members, and some other domestic and international flights which do not operate from either Terminals 1 or 2.

Airport Transportation

Airport Express Train The Airport Express Line of the Subway serves the airport from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2 and then takes passengers to Dongzhimen via Sanyuanqiao. This line was opened just prior to the 2008 Summer Olympics. It carries passengers to the airport in twenty minutes from the city center, covering a distance of 28 kilometers.

Airport Shuttle Bus Currently, there are nine different shuttle bus routes connecting the airport with various locations in the downtown area, such as Xidan, Railway Station, West Railway Station, Nanyuan Airport and others.

Cross Terminals Free Shuttle Bus Every seven minutes, there is a free shuttle bus leaving from Terminal 3 for Terminal 2 and then Terminal 1, vice versa. The bus just takes 15 minutes for one-way. Pick-up stations: T1 -- Gate3-5 on the 1st Floor; T2 -- Gate 11 on the 1st Floor; T3 -- Gate 5 on the 1st Floor Route: Gate 5 of T3 Arrival Floor→T2 Departure Floor→T1 Departure Floor→Gate 11 of T2 Arrival Floor→Gate 5 of T1 Arrival Floor→T3 Departure Floor→Gate 5 of T3 Arrival Floor Operating hours: every 10 minutes at 06:00~23:00; every 30 minutes at 23:00~06:00 (the next day)

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (IATA: PVG, ICAO: ZSPD) is one of two international airports of Shang- hai and a major aviation hub of China. Pudong Airport mainly serves international flights Located about 30 kilometers (19 mi) east of the city center, Pudong Airport occupies a 40-square-kilometre (10,000-acre) site adjacent to the coastline in eastern Pudong.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport Terminals

Pudong Airport has two main passenger terminals, flanked on both sides by four parallel runways. A third passenger terminal has been planned since 2015, in addition to a satellite terminal and two additional runways, raising its annual capacity from 60 million passengers to 80 million, along with the ability to handle six million tonnes of freight. Shanghai Pudong is the busiest international hub of China, about half of its total passenger traffic is international. Pudong Airport is connected to Shanghai Metro Line 2 and the Shanghai Maglev Train via Pudong International Airport Station.

Airport Transportation

Special roadway and buses are accessible for the convenience of shuttling between T1 and T2. Passenger can go through the three long corridors between them. These regular buses depart every 10 minute and take about 5 minutes from one building to the other. They can be found at Exit 1 of the domestic and Exit 7 of the international departure levels in T1 and Exit 23 of the international and Exit 27 of the domestic departure levels in T2. Operating hours range from 06:00 to 24:00. In addition, passengers can get into T2 via the connecting porch for Maglev trains. For those who drive by themselves or take taxis, they can get to T2 though A20 Expressway, A1 (Yingbin Dadao) and then Shanghai North-South Elevated Freeway.

◆ Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Airport Code: SHA)

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (IATA: SHA, ICAO: ZSSS) is one of two international airports of Shanghai and an important aviation hub of China. Hongqiao Airport mainly serves domestic and regional flights, with limited international flights. It is located near the town of Hongqiao in Changning District, 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) west of downtown, and is closer to the city center than Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shang- hai's main international airport.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport Terminals Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport has 2 terminals. Terminal 1 is comprised of Zone A and Zone B cover about 20.3 acres (82,000 square meters) with 15 waiting halls, 18 VIP lounges and 15 baggage transfer belts. Terminal 2 is completed and open into public use on March 16, 2010, which is a support to the Expo. After extension, in addition to a new terminal, there is a new runway of 3300 meters and a new set of assistant facilities. The newly built runway is applicalbe for the largest aircrafts, including A380.

Airport Transportation It has its runways in the middle and terminal buildings on two sides. It is a waste of time to walk from one to another if you go to the wrong terminal. There are free shuttle buses running between terminals. They run every a few minutes and it takes 15 minutes between T1 and T2. Pick-up points: south side of Gate 6, Departure Hall, T1 north side of Gate 1, Arrival Hall, T2 Hours: 06:30-23:00 Frequency: every 15 minutes, 5 minutes in peak hours

Xian Xianyang International Airport is the main airport serving Xi'an, capital of China's Shaanxi Province, as well as the whole Guanzhong area. Covering an area of 5 square kilometres (1.9 sq mi), it is the largest airport in Northwest China, and the second largest airport in Northern China. The airport is located within the administrative area of Xianyang city, which gives the airport its name. It is 41 kilometres (25 mi) northwest of Xi'an city centre, and 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) northeast of the centre of Xianyang.

Xian Xianyang International Airport Terminals Xian Xianyang International Airport has 3 terminals. Terminal 3 and the second runway were opened on 3 May 2012, increasing the airport's capacity to more than 33 million passengers a year. The new terminal alone can handle 22 million passengers a year, twice as many as the other two terminals combined. Airlines that moved into the new terminal are China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Shanghai Airlines. The second runway is 3,800 meters long and is large enough to handle the Airbus A380.

Airport Transportation There is free cross-terminal shuttle bus running between T2 and T3. It runs every 15 minutes from 08:30 to 20:00 and runs about 5 minutes between terminals. Passengers can get on the bus at Boarding Gate 17 in T2; or beside the Transferring Hall in T3.

◆ Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Airport Code: CAN)

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (IATA: CAN, ICAO: ZGGG) is the major airport of Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, China. Both airport codes were inherited from the former Baiyun Airport, and the IATA code is derived from Guangzhou's historical romanizationCanton. Baiyun Airport serves as a hub for China Southern Airlines, FedEx Express, 9 Air, Hainan Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Terminals Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has only one terminal. With an area of about 370 thousand square meters (about 914 acres), the Terminal Building of the Baiyun Airport is four-storied, formed by the Main Build- ing, Connection Building, terminal concourses and elevated passages. The third floor is the Departures Hall; the second floor is the Arrivals Interlayer; the first floor is the Arrivals Hall; and the minus-one floor leads to the subway station and the parking lot. The Departure Hall on the third floor has eight entrances/ exits. Taxis and Airport Shuttle Bus can stop on the doorway of the Departure Hall. Entering the No. 4 Gate of the Departure Hall, you can see a big electronic screen, on which you can see the flight information.

Airport Transportation Baiyun Airport boasts very convenient ground transportation system. This system is mainly made up of metro line 3, shuttle bus, intercity bus and taxi.

◆ Hong Kong International Airport (Airport Code: HKIA)

Hong Kong International Airport (IATA: HKG ICAO: VHHH). Located on the artificial island of Chek Lap Kok, north to Lautau Island of the New Territories, it is also called Chek Lap Kok International Airport (CLK). It is the fourth busiest international passenger airport in the world and has the busiest international cargo facilities. There are 90 airlines operating from the airport and at any time, some 750 aircraft are on their move daily. HKIA links Hong Kong with around 150 destinations round the world, including 40 cities in Mainland China. Since its operation from July 1998, the International Airport has earned the world's best airport recognition for more than 25 times by 10 different entities. It boasts two terminals, with an area of 71 square meters. Whilst Terminal 1 was put into use from the start, Terminal 2 was only added in Feb.2007. Located opposite to each other, the two terminals are within walking distance.

Knowing what you really love is important. Your preferences, interests, favorite attractions, habits, travel purpose & http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.html http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.html budget, etc, please feel free to http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.htmlfill in the form. Or send email to [email protected]. Then we can tailor-make _12 your most suitable tour proposal free of charge. Easy & save your time! ◆ Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (Airport Code: CTU) Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (IATA: CTU, ICAO: ZUUU) is the major international airport serving Chengdu, the capital of China's Sichuan Province. Located about 16 kilometres (10 mi) southwest of downtown Chengdu to the north of Shuangliu District, Shuangliu airport is an important aviation hub to Western China. Shuangliu Airport handled 42.2 million passengers in 2015. It was among world's top 30 busiest airport in 2015, the 4th busiest in mainland China, and the busiest in western and central China. It was also the 5th busiest airport in terms of cargo traffic in China for 2013.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport Terminals Shuangliu International Airport has two terminal buildings, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, covering an area of 500,000 square meters (about 124 acres). There are 74 boarding bridges, 64 security channels, and 207 check-in counters. Complete and advanced facilities and services are available in both terminals, including International and domestic transfer, VIP lounge, banks, dining, shopping, recreation and other dedicated services.

Airport Transportation The outside of separation area Run Time 06:00 . -- 24:00 Stops Terminal 1: outside Gate. 8 Terminal 2: outside Gate. 9 Routes Gate 8 of T1 - Flyover between T1 and T2 - Gate 9 of T2 The inside of separation area Run Time 05:00 --23:00 Stops Terminal 1:First-class lounge of Sichuan Airlines in Corridor C(not including distant stands) Terminal 2: security checkpoint of Corridor DE and FG Routes The shuttle can take you to the places near the boarding gates of Corridor B in T1-Corridor EF in T2.

◆ Kunming Changshui International Airport (Airport Code: KMG) Kunming Changshui International Airport (IATA: KMG, ICAO: ZPPP) is the primary airport serving Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, China. The airport is located 24.5 km (15.2 mi) northeast of the city center in a graded mountainous area about 2,100 m (6,900 ft) above sea level. The airport opened at 08:00 (UTC+8) on June 28, 2012,[1] replacing the old Kunming Wujiaba International Airport, which will be demolished. The new airport has two runways (versus the single runway at Wujiaba), and handled 37,523,345 passengers in 2015, making it one of the 50 busiest airports in the world by passenger traffic, the first time it earned this distinction. In 2020, it is expected to handle 43 million passengers.

Kunming Changshui International Airport Terminals Currently, it has one terminal building, Terminal 1. Terminal 2 is expected to be completed before 2020. The total building area is about 548,300 square metres, which is the second largest terminal building in the country only next to Terminal 3 of Beijing Capital International Airport. The building has 3 underground floors, as well as 3 floors above ground. It has 66 contact gates with jet bridges. Advanced and complete facilities and services are available in the building for transit, shopping, dinning, accommodation, and entertainment.

◆ Lhasa Gonggar Airport (Airport Code: LXA) Lhasa Gonggar Airport ( IATA: LXA, ICAO: ZULS) is the airport serving Lhasa, the capital city of the Tibet Auton- omous Region, China. It is about 62 kilometres (39 mi) southwest of the city in Gonggar County of Shannan. The airport is close to the road to Tsetang, the seat of Nêdong District and the capital of Shannan. At an elevation of 3,570 metres (11,710 ft), Lhasa Airport is one of the highest in the world. It was built in 1965, a second runway was built in 1994, and terminal facilities were upgraded in 2004.

Lhasa Flights At present, the airport operates 40 more air routes every week to both domestic and international cities. Here- inafter is the list: (listed in alphabetical order) Domestic Cities: Beijing, Chamdo, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Dazhou, Diqing, Fuzhou, Golmud, Guang- zhou, Guiyang, Hangzhou, Kangding, Kunming, Lanzhou, Lijiang, Mianyang, Nanchong, Nanjing, Nanning, Ngari, Nyingchi, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Taiyuan, Tianjin, Xiahe, Xiamen, Xian, Xining, Yushu, Zhengzhou International City: Kathmandu

China Southern Airlines China Southern Airlines Company Limited is an airline headquartered in Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guang- dong Province, China. Established on 1 July 1988 following the restructuring of the Civil Aviation Administra- tion of China that acquired and merged a number of domestic airlines, the airline became one of China's "Big Three" airlines (alongside Air China and China Eastern Airlines), the world's fourth-largest airline measured by passengers carried and Asia's largest airline in fleet size, revenue and passengers carried. With its main hubs at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport, the airline operates more than 2,000 flights to 208 destinations daily as a member of SkyTeam. The logo of the airline consists of a kapok flower (which is also the city flower of Guangzhou) on a blue tail fin.

China Eastern Airlines China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited is an airline headquartered in the China Eastern Airlines Building, on the grounds of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport in Changning District, Shanghai, China. It is a major Chinese airline operating international, domestic and regional routes. Its main hubs are at Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, with secondary hubs at Beijing Capital Inter- national Airport, Kunming Changshui International Airport and Xi'an Xianyang International Airport.

Air China Air China Limited is the flag carrier and one of the major airlines of the People's Republic of China, with its headquarters in Shunyi District, Beijing. Air China's flight operations are based at Beijing Capital International Airport. In 2015, the airline carried 90 million domestic and international passengers with an average load factor of 80%.

Hainan Airlines Xiamen Air Hainan Airlines Co., Ltd. is an airline headquar- XiamenAir (formerly Xiamen Airlines) is the first airline tered in Haikou, Hainan, People's Republic of operated in the course of modern enterprise in China. China. It is the largest civilian-run air transport Established on July 25, 1984 and based in Xiamen, company and the fourth-largest airline in terms of Fujian Province[4] it operates scheduled passenger fleet size in the People's Republic of China. It flights out of Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport and, operates scheduled domestic and international to a lesser extent, Fuzhou Changle International services on 500 routes from Hainan and nine Airport and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. locations on the mainland, as well as charter The airline is owned by China Southern Airlines (55%), services. Its main base is Haikou Meilan Interna- Xiamen Construction and Development Group (34%), tional Airport, with a hub at Beijing Capital Inter- and Fujian Investment & Development Group (11%). national Airport and several focus cities. Xiamen Airlines holds a 99.23% stake in Hebei Airlines, 60% stake in Jiangxi Airlines. By early 2014, the Airlines has set up branches in Fuzhou, Nanchang, Hangzhou, Tianjin, Changsha, and Beijing. Shenzhen Airlines Shenzhen Airlines is an airline headquartered in Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport in Bao'an District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. It has been a member of Star Alliance since 2012, and is currently one of two Chinese airlines that is part of the global airline network. With a fleet of over 100 narrowbody aircraft (a mix of Airbus A320 family and Boeing 737 Next Generation types), Shenzhen Airlines is the fourth largest domestic carrier in the Chinese market with around 7% of seat capacity and flights.

Beijing

Beijing Railway Station is a passenger railway station in Dongcheng District, Beijing. The station is located just southeast of the city centre inside the Second Ring Road with Beijing Station Street to the north and the remnants of the city wall between Chongwenmen and Dongbianmen to the south. The Beijing Railway Station opened in 1959 and was the largest train station in China at the time. Though superseded by the larger Beijing West and Beijing South Stations, this station remains the only one located inside the old walled city. Trains entering and leaving the station pass by the Dongbianmen corner tower. With gilded eaves and soaring clock towers, the architecture of the railway blends traditional Chinese and socialist realist influence. Generally, trains for northeast China (Shenyang, Dalian, Harbin) on the Beijing–Harbin Railway, for Shandong (Jinan, Qingdao) and the Yangtze River Delta (Shanghai, Nanjing and Hangzhou) on the Beijing–Shanghai Railway and some for Inner and Outer Mongolia depart from this station. Some international lines (notably the railway line linking Beijing to Moscow, Pyongyang, North Korea (DPRK), amongst others), also depart from this station.

Beijing West (Beijingxi) Railway Station is located in western Beijing's Fengtai District. Opened in early 1996 after three years of construction, it was the largest railway station in Asiawith an area of 510,000 m2, before being surpassed by Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station in platform capacity. The station serves in average 150,000–180,000 passengers per day with a maximum of 400,000 people per day. It was expanded in 2000 and had a vast amount of parking spaces added.

Beijing South (Beijingnan) Railway Station is a large railway station (mainly serving high speed trains) in Fengtai District, Beijing, about 7.5 km (4.7 mi) south of central Beijing, between the 2nd and 3rd ring roads. The station in its present form opened on 1 August 2008 and replaced the old Beijing South station, originally known as Majiapu Railway Station, later renamed Yongdingmen Railway Station, which stood 500 metres away. The old station was in use from 1897 to 2006. The new Beijing South Railway Station is the city's largest station, and is one of the largest in Asia. It joins the main Beijing Rail- way Stationand the Beijing West Railway Station as one of three main passenger rail hubs in the Chinese capital. It serves as the terminus for high-speed trains on the Beijing–Tianjin Intercity Railway, Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway, and the future Beijing–Shenyang High-Speed Railway, and Beijing–Tangshan Intercity Railway, which can reach speeds up to 350 km/h (217 mph). Some CRH sleepers to and from Shanghai, Hang- zhou, Nanjing, and Suzhou also depart from (or arrive at) this station.

Shanghai Railway Station is one of the four major railway stations in Shanghai, China, the others being Shang- hai South Railway Station, Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station and Shanghai West Railway Station. The station is located on Moling Road, Jing'an District, to the North of the city centre. It is governed by Shanghai Railway Bureau and is one of the most important hubs of the railway network in China.

Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is one of the three major railway stations in Shanghai, China, the others being Shanghai Railway Station and Shanghai South Railway Station. With a total area of 1.3 million square meters, it is the largest railway station in Asia. Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, located in Minhang District of Shanghai, is a major part of the Hongqiao Comprehensive Transportation Hub (“the Hongqiao hub”). The station achieves a zero-distance transfer with the Terminal 2 of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, as well as Line 2 and Line 10 of Shanghai Metro.

Shanghai South Railway Station, also Shanghai South Station is a railway station in the city of Shanghai, China. Located in the Xuhui District, its importance is second only to the Shanghai Railway Station. After extensive renovation that was finished in 2006, the station features a modern circular design, the first of its kind in the world. The station was expected to handle 15 million passengers annually. Shanghai South Station serves most trains to cities of Zhejiang (including Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Ningbo, Jinhua and Wenzhou) and the Southern provinces of China, excluding the Shanghai-Hong Kong Route. Without a Customs/Immigration checkpoint it is not capable of clearing passengers straight to Hong Kong; until such a checkpoint is constructed the Shang- hai-Kowloon through Train will continue to depart from Shanghai Railway Station.

Xi’an

Xi'an Railway Station is one of the two main railway stations of Xi'an, the capital of China's Shaanxi Prov- ince. Located on the Longhai Railway line just north of Xi'an's historical walled city, Xi'an Railway Station had long been the main train station of the Xi'an metropolitan area. However, with the opening of Xi'an North Railway Station on the northern outskirts of the city in 2011, most of the high-speed services, including the G- and D-series trains of the Zhengzhou–Xi'an High-Speed Railway, have been transferred to the new station. Xi'an Railway Station remains the main station for all "conventional" rail service in the city, including the overnight Z-series expresses, T-series express trains, and all slower service.

Xi'an North Railway Station is a railway station on the Zhengxi Passenger Railway, Xibao Passenger Railway and Daxi Passenger Railway. The station is located in Weiyang District of Xi'an (the capital of Shaanxi Province of China). It is some 10 km north of the city centre and the Xi'an Railway Station.The station has 34 platforms. It is the largest railway station in Northwest China.

Guangzhou Railway Station serves the city of Guangzhou, China. It sits on the high speed Guangshen railway just west of Guangzhou East. As one of the busiest railway stations in southern China, Guangzhou station is known for its notorious safety record. CRH trains from Guangzhou serves Shenzhen six times daily. Services from this station include trains to Beijing (Jingguang railway) and Lhasa. It is served by the Guangzhou Metro on Line 2 and Line 5.

Guangzhoudong Railway Station also known as Tianhe Station serves the city of Guangzhou, China. It is located in Tianhe District, Guangzhou, Guangdong province, China. The railway, metro, and bus terminal stations is interconnected as a single station complex. There is an immigration check point within the station for Guangdong Through Train passengers travelling to and from Hong Kong.

Guangzhou North Railway Station is a railway station in Guangdong Province, China, opened in 1908. It is located in Huadu District in far northern suburbs of Guangzhou. The station is served both by the high-speed trains of the Wuhan–Guangzhou High-Speed Railway and by regular passenger trains on the original railway (Jingguang railway) running along the same route.

Guangzhou South Railway Station, also known as New Guangzhou Station or Shibi Station , is located in Shibi, Panyu, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. It is a large modern rail terminal 17 kilometres south of central Guangzhou. For a brief time it was Asia's largest railway station (by area) when it officially opened operations in early 2010. The station, designed by TFP Farrells, remains the largest in Guangzhou. It is one of the four largest railway passenger transportation hubsin China.

It is an interchange station and a terminus between Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link, Guangzhou-Maoming Railway, Guangzhou-Zhuhai Intercity Railway and Beijing-Guangzhou High Speed Railway. This station is intended to replace the existing Guangzhou Railway Station in being the dominant station in Guangzhou. Together with Guangzhou main station, Guangzhou East and Guangzhou North railway stations, they will be jointly form one of six planned National Railway Passenger Transportation Centres by the Chinese Ministry of Railways. Guangzhou South Railway Station is also a comprehensive transportation hub; passengers can interchange between high-speed long distance trains, Metro, long distance and local buses, taxi, etc. Guangzhou Metro Line 2 and Line 7 subway lines are located at or near the bottom of station complex Metro station. The formation of a centralized transfer center will see connections with the future Guangzhou Metro Lines 18 & 20, as well as the Metro Line 2.

Chengdu

Chengdu Railway Station is one of the 3 major railway stations in Chengdu, China, The station is located on North Second Ring Road, Jinniu District, to the North of the city centre. It is governed by Chengdu Railway Bureauand is one of the most important hubs of the railway network in China. Chengdu East Railway Station is a railway station on the Chengyu Passenger Railway, the Chengdu–Leshan Intercity Railway and the Dacheng Railway. The station located in Chenghua, Chengdu, Sichuan, China. It is connected to Chengdu Metro Line 2. Chengdu South Railway Station serves as a supporting project for the Chengdu – Mianyang – Leshan high-speed railway line, and it has become a comprehensive transport hub with trains, buses, taxis, and metro lines combined perfectly as one, including a seamless connection between metro lines 1 and 7. There are 12 bus lines available from the square at Chengdu South Railway Station, and a social parking lot is also available below the station.

◆ China High Speed Train (Bullet Train)

High speed trains, which are also called bullet, fast, or CRH trains, are identified as G, D and C trains in China. Currently, there are about 2,300 pairs of high speed trains running daily along the high speed rail with a length of over 13,600 mi (22,000 km), covering almost every large city and most tourism destinations. Their top speed is 186 mph (300 km/h), which is planned to increase to 217 mph (350 km/h) in the near future. Painted in white or grey with a ‘bullet’ locomotive, the high speed trains can be easily recog- nized.

◆ Normal Train

Usually colored blue, red or green, they are identified by Z/T/K/L/Y/S plus digits or just several digits without letters. They run at a lower speed than high speed types, but they run day and night. The facilities are generally of a lower standard, e.g. the toilets are mostly squatting ones. With relatively lower prices, they are often the choice of budget travelers.

China train ticket types can be classified into: On bullet/ high speed trains (C, D, G trains): first class seat, second class seat, business class seat, VIP seat, soft sleeper, luxury soft sleeper, high speed sleepers;

◆ First Class Seat

First Class Seats on C, D or G trains have four seats in a row, two on each side of the aisle. They are wider and softer than in second class. With a small pillow and a foldable footrest, they offer a more comfortable experience. The ticket fare is about 20% to 40% higher than second class.

◆ Second Class Seat

Second Class Seats have five seats in a row, three on one side of the aisle and two on the other side. The seats are like those in economy class on an airplane. The backrest can be adjusted to a comfortable angle and has a small, foldable table attached. The seats can be rotated so all passengers can sit facing forward. The seats in other classes also have this feature. Second Class ticket price is the lowest among all high speed classes, so it is the most popular and most frequently used.

◆ Business Class Seat

C, D or G train Business Class Seats are the equivalent of first class on an airplane and are only available on G and some D types. There are two sofa-like seats on one side and one on the other side. The seats can be adjusted flat for passengers to lie down. The fare is the highest- about twice that of first class.

◆ Business Class Seat

They are available on G and certain D types. They are as comfortable as those in the first class carriages, with two on one side and one on the other. The fare is higher than the first class and about twice of the second class. Besides the above seats, there are Soft Sleepers and Luxury Soft Sleepers on a few overnight D trains.

Double-deck high speed sleepers are newly adopted on D311 and D312 running along Beijing-Shanghai High Speed Railway. The sleepers are arranged at two sides of the carriage in accordance with the train’s moving direction to enable a more comfortable ride. Each sleeper has a socket, a headlamp, a reading lamp, an independent desk, and a coat rack. A curtain is also provided for privacy. The height between the upper berth and the roof is tall enough for passengers to sit straight. The luggage can be placed below the lower berth. Each train has 16 carriages, accommodating 880 passengers at one time.

On non-bullet trains (Z, T, K, Y, K, S types): hard sleeper, soft sleeper, luxury soft sleeper, hard seat, soft seat First class seats and second class seats on China trains are the first choice for a trip less than five hours, while soft sleepers and hard sleepers are highly recommended for a long or overnight journey.

◆ Hard Sleeper

A Hard Sleeper compartment usually comprises six berths arranged in three levels on the two sides. As the compartments lack doors, it is hard to have a good sleep due to continuous snores, kids’ crying, and the sound of the train moving. The fare is about twice as much as a hard seat.

◆ Soft Sleeper

Like those on the high speed D type, a Soft Sleeper compartment consists of two upper and two lower berths. The berths are wider than the hard sleepers. More importantly, each compartment has a door. The fare is about 50% higher than the hard sleeper.

◆ Luxury Soft Sleeper

There are two bunks on one side of the compartment, and a leisure area with a sofa and an independent western style toilet. The fare is about twice that of a soft sleeper. They are only available on some long-distance trips between major cities. Some overnight D trains also have luxuty soft sleepers.

◆ Hard Seat

Hard Seat is the cheapest among all classes. As the name implies, it can be something of an ordeal, especially for a long journey. Not only are the seats hard, the seat backs are almost vertical and cannot be adjusted. The carriages are always noisy, smelly, and crowded with non-seat passengers, especially during peak seasons. There are five seats in a row, two on one side and three on the other side. A small table is set between every two opposite rows.

◆ Soft Seat

Soft seats are only available on a few trains. There are four seats in a row with two on both sides. The seats are cushioned and softer. The fare is about 1.5 times of a hard seat.

◆ Great Wall of China ( Beijing)

The Great Wall, one of the greatest wonders of the world, was listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO in 1987. Just like a gigantic dragon, it winds up and down across deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus, stretching approximately 21,196 kilometers( 13,170 miles) from east to west of China. With a history of more than 2,000 years, some of the Great Wall sections are now in ruins or have disappeared. However, the Great Wall of China is still one of the most appealing attractions all around the world owing to its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

◆ Forbidden City ( Beijing)

Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, and Gu Gong in Chinese, lies at the city center of Beijing, and once served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 - 1911). It was first built throughout 14 years during the reign of Emperor Chengzu in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Ancient Chinese Astronomers believed that the Purple Star (Polaris) was in the center of heaven and the Heavenly Emperor lived in the Purple Palace. The Palace for the emperor on earth was so called the Purple City. It was forbidden to enter without special permission of the emperor. Hence its name 'The Purple Forbidden City', usually 'The Forbidden City'.

◆ Summer Palace ( Beijing)

The Summer Palace, is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens and palaces in Beijing, China. It serves as a popular tourist destination and recreational park. Mainly dominated by Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, it covers an expanse of 2.9 square kilometres (1.1 sq mi), three-quarters of which is water. Longevi- ty Hill is about 60 metres (200 feet) high and has many buildings positioned in sequence. The front hill is rich with splendid halls and pavilions, while the back hill, in sharp contrast, is quiet with natural beauty. The central Kunming Lake, covering 2.2 square kilometres (540 acres), was entirely man-made and the excavated soil was used to build Longevity Hill.In December 1998, UNESCO included the Summer Palace on its World Heritage List. It declared the Summer Palace "a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value".

The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is a form of funerary art buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE and whose purpose was to protect the emperor in his afterlife. The figures, dating from approximately the late third century BCE, were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi province. The figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots and horses. Estimates from 2007 were that the three pits containing the Terracotta Army held more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses, the majority of which remained buried in the pits nearby Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum.[2] Other terracotta non-military figures were found in other pits, including officials, acrobats, strongmen and musicians.

◆ City Wall ( Xi’an)

The fortifications of Xi'an, also known as Xi'an City Wall, in Xi'an, an ancient capital of China, represent one of the oldest, largest and best preserved Chinese city walls. It was built under the rule of the Hongwu Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang as a military defense system. It exhibits the "complete features of the rampart architecture of feudal society". It has been refurbished many times since it was built in the 14th century, thrice at intervals of about 200 years in the later half of the 1500s and 1700s, and in recent years in 1983. The wall encloses an area of about 14 square kilometres (5.4 sq mi) The Xi'an City Wall is on the tentative list of UNESCO's World Heritage Site under the title "City Walls of the Ming and Qing Dynasties". Since 2008, it is also on the list of the State Administration of Cultural Heritage of the People's Republic of China. Since March 1961, the Xi'an City Wall is a heritage National Historical and Cultural Town.

◆ Big Wild Goose Pagoda ( Xi’an)

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda or Big Wild Goose Pagoda ,is a Buddhist pagoda located in southern Xi'an, Shaanxi province, China. It was built in 652 during the Tang dynasty and originally had five stories. The structure was rebuilt in 704 during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian, and its exterior brick facade was renovated during the Ming dynasty. One of the pagoda's many functions was to hold sutras and figurines of the Buddha that were brought to China from India by the Buddhist translator and traveler Xuanzang.

◆ Shaolin Temple ( Luoyang)

The Shaolin Monastery, also known as the Shaolin Temple, is a Chan ("Zen") Buddhist temple in Dengfeng County, Henan Province, China. Dating back 1,500 years when founded by Fang Lu-Hao, Shaolin Temple is the main temple of the Shaolin school of Buddhism to this day. Shaolin Monastery and its Pagoda Forest were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010 as part of the "Historic Monuments of Dengfeng".

The Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region was the residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India during the 1959 Tibetan uprising. It is now a museum and World Heritage Site. The palace is named after Mount Potalaka, the mythical abode of the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara. The 5th Dalai Lama started its construction in 1645 after one of his spiritual advisers, Konchog Chophel (died 1646), pointed out that the site was ideal as a seat of government, situated as it is between Drepung and Sera monasteries and the old city of Lhasa. It may overlay the remains of an earlier fortress called the White or Red Palace on the site, built by Songtsän Gampo in 637. The building measures 400 metres east-west and 350 metres north-south, with sloping stone walls averaging 3 m. thick, and 5 m. (more than 16 ft) thick at the base, and with copper poured into the foundations to help proof it against earthquakes. Thirteen stories of buildings—containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues—soar 117 metres (384 ft) on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill", rising more than 300 m (about 1,000 ft) in total above the valley floor. Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet". Chokpori, just to the south of the Potala, is the soul-mountain (Wylie: bla ri) of Vajrapani, Pongwari that of Manjusri, and Marpori, the hill on which the Potala stands, represents Avalokiteśvara.

◆ Mogao Caves (Dunhuang)

The Mogao Caves , also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes, form a system of 492 temples 25 km (16 mi) southeast of the center of Dunhuang, an oasis strategically located at a religious and cultural crossroads on the Silk Road, in Gansu province, China. The caves may also be known as the Dunhuang Caves, however, this term is also used as a collective term to include other Buddhist cave sites in and around the Dunhuang area, the Western Thousand Buddha Caves, Eastern Thousand Buddha Caves, Yulin Caves, and Five Temple Caves. The caves contain some of the finest examples of Buddhist art spanning a period of 1,000 years. The first caves were dug out in 366 AD as places of Buddhist meditation and worship. The Mogao Caves are the best known of the Chinese Buddhist grottoes and, along with Longmen Grottoes and Yungang Grottoes, are one of the three famous ancient Buddhist sculptural sites of China. An important cache of documents was discovered in 1900 in the so-called "Library Cave," which had been walled-up in the 11th century. The contents of the library were subsequently dispersed around the world, and the largest collections are now found in Beijing, London, Paris and Berlin, and the International Dunhuang Project exists to coordinate and collect scholarly work on the Dunhuang manuscripts and other material. The caves themselves are now a popular tourist destination, with a number open for visiting.

◆ Hanging Temple (Datong)

The Hanging Temple, also Hanging Monastery or Xuankong Temple is a temple built into a cliff (75 m or 246 ft above the ground) near Mount Heng in Hunyuan County, Datong City, Shanxiprovince, China. The closest city is Datong, 64.23 kilometers to the northwest. Along with the Yungang Grottoes, the Hanging Temple is one of the main tourist attractions and historical sites in the Datong area. Built more than 1,500 years ago, this temple is notable not only for its location on a sheer precipice but also because it is the only existing temple with the combination of three Chinese traditional religions: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The structure is kept in place with oak crossbeams fitted into holes chiseled into the cliffs. The main supportive structure is hidden inside the bedrock. The monastery is located in the small canyon basin, and the body of the building hangs from the middle of the cliff under the prominent summit, protecting the temple from rain erosion and sunlight. Coupled with the repair of the dynasties, the color tattoo in the temple is relatively well preserved. On December 2010, it was listed in the “Time” magazine as the world's top ten most odd dangerous buildings.

◆ Jiuzhaigou National park (Jiuzhaigou)

Jiuzhaigou is a nature reserve and national park located in the north of Sichuan province, China.Jiuzhaigou Valley is part of the Min Mountains on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau and stretches over 72,000 hectares (180,000 acres). It is known for its many multi-level waterfalls, colorful lakes, and snow-capped peaks. Its elevation ranges from 2,000 to 4,500 metres (6,600 to 14,800 ft). Jiuzhaigou Valley was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1992 and a World Biosphere Reserve in 1997. It belongs to the category V (Protect- ed Landscape) in the IUCN system of protected area categorization.

◆ Yangtze River Cruise (Yichang-Chongqing or Chongqing to Yichang)

The Yangtze is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world. The river is the longest in the world to flow entirely within one country. It drains one-fifth of the land area of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and its river basin is home to one-third of the country's population. The Yangtze is the sixth-largest river by discharge volume in the world. The Yangtze plays a large role in the history, culture and economy of China. The prosperous Yangtze River Delta generates as much as 20% of the PRC's GDP. The Yangtze River flows through a wide array of ecosystems and is habitat to several endemic and endangered species including the Chinese alligator, the finless porpoise, the Chinese paddlefish, the (possibly extinct) Yangtze River dolphin or baiji, and the Yangtze sturgeon. For thousands of years, the river has been used for water, irrigation, sanitation, transportation, industry, boundary-marking and war. The Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River is the largest hydro-electric power station in the world.

◆ Huangshan (Huangshan)

Huangshan, is a mountain range in southern Anhui province in eastern China. Vegetation on the range is thickest below 1,100 meters (3,600 ft), with trees growing up to the treeline at 1,800 meters (5,900 ft). The area is well known for its scenery, sunsets, peculiarly-shaped granite peaks, Huangshan pine trees, hot springs, winter snow, and views of the clouds from above. Huangshan is a frequent subject of traditional Chinese paintings and literature, as well as modern photography. It is a UNESCO World Heri- tage Site, and one of China's major tourist destinations.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, set up in 1982, is the first authorized national forest park in China. The area covers 480 thousand square meters (185 square miles). This park, together with Suoxi Valley Nature Reserve, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve and Yangjiajie Scenic Area make up the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, also known as Zhangjiajie Scenic Spot. It is located 32 kilometers (19 miles) from urban Zhangjiajie. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has been described differently, such as, majestic, eccentric, tranquil, delicate and wild. The park features grotesque peaks, lucid brooks, abundant fauna and floras and hospitable climate. There are six main attraction spots and over 90 smaller ones in the park to date.

◆ Mt. Everest (Tibet) Mt. Everest, also called Mt. Qomolangma, is the highest peak in the world. Its Tibetan meaning of 'Goddess the Third' adds more mysterious color and magic power to the subject. As a result, it has intrigued all kinds of people since it was first discovered. Pilgrims trek long distances to present a pious worship, climbing enthusiasts run great risks to challenge its high altitude and the common visitors also yearn for a reverent look at this holy peak.

◆ West lake (Huangzhou) West Lake is a freshwater lake in Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province in eastern China. It is divided into five sections by three causeways. There are numerous temples, pagodas, gardens, and artificial islands within the lake.West Lake has influenced poets and painters throughout Chinese history for its natural beauty and historic relics, and it has also been among the most important sources of inspiration for Chinese garden designers. It was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, described as having "influenced garden design in the rest of China as well as Japan and Korea over the centuries" and reflecting "an idealized fusion between humans and nature".

Knowing what you really love is important. Your preferences, interests, favorite attractions, habits, travel purpose & http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.html http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.html budget, etc, please feel free to http://www.novalandtours.com/china-tours.htmlfill in the form. Or send email to [email protected]. Then we can tailor-make _24 your most suitable tour proposal free of charge. Easy & save your time! ◆ Tiger Leaping Gorge (Shangri-la) Tiger Leaping Gorge is a scenic canyon on the Jinsha River, a primary tributary of the upper Yangtze River. It is located 60 kilometres (37 mi) north of Lijiang City, Yunnan in southwestern China. It is part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas World Heritage Site. At a maximum depth of approximately 3,790 meters (12,434 feet) from river to mountain peak, Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest and most spectacular river canyons in the world.[1] The inhabitants of the gorge are primarily the indigenous Naxi people, who live in a hand- ful of small hamlets. Their primary subsistence comes from grain production and hikers, foreign as well as Chinese.

Li river cruise (Guilin)

◆ Li river cruise (Guilin) The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the centerpiece of any trip to northeastern Guangxi Province. Gorgeous Karst peaks give you surprises at each bend of the limpid river under the blue sky. Water buffalo patrol the fields, peasants reap rice paddies, school kids and fisherman float by on bamboo rafts. With its breathtaking scenery and taste of a life far removed from the concrete metropolis, the scenery along the river become one of China's top tourist destinations.

◆ Gansu Zhangye National Geopark (Zhangye) The Gansu Zhangye National Geopark , is located in Sunanand Linze counties within the prefecture-level city of Zhangye. It covers an area of 322 square kilometres (124 sq mi). The site became a quasi-national geopark on April 23, 2012 (provisional name: Gansu Zhangye Danxia Geopark). It was formally designated as ″Gansu Zhangye National Geopark″ by the Ministry of Land and Resources on June 16, 2016 after it has passed the on-site acceptance test. Known for its colorful rock formations, it has been voted by Chinese media outlets as one of the most beautiful landforms in China.

◆ Badain Jaran Desert (Gansu, Ningxia and Inner Mongolia) The Badain Jaran Desert is a desert in China which spans the provinces of Gansu, Ningxia and Inner Mongolia. It covers an area of 49,000 square kilometres (19,000 sq mi). By size it is the third largest desert in China. This desert is home to some of the tallest stationary dunes on Earth, with some reaching a height of more than 500 meters (1,600 ft), although most average at around 200 meters (660 ft). Its tallest dune is also measured, from base to peak, as the world's third tallest dune and highest stationary dune in the world.The desert also features over 100 spring-fed lakes that lie between the dunes, some of which are fresh water while others are extremely saline. These lakes give the desert its name which is Mongolian for "mysterious lakes". It is also crossed by one river, the Ruo Shui ("weak water"), which has formed an alluvial plain in the desert.

◆ Pingyao Ancient Town (Pingyao)

Pingyao is a county in central Shanxi province in China. It is located approximately 715 kilometres (444 mi) southwest of Beijing and 100 kilometres (62 mi) from the provincial capital, Taiyuan. During the Qing Dynasty, Pingyao was a financial centre of China. The ancient city, whose history dates back some 2,700 years and which is renowned for its well-preserved city walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. It is still inhabited by some 50,000 residents.

◆ Lijiang Ancient Town (Lijiang)

The Old Town of Lijiang, a well-preserved old city of ethnic minorities with brilliant culture, is a central town of the Lijiang Autonomous County of the Naxi Ethnic Minority in Yunnan Province. Located on the plateau which is 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above the sea level and embraced by the tree-covered Lion Mountain in the west, Elephant and Golden Row Mountains in the north, vast fertile fields in the southeast and crystal clear water running through, the old town looks like a big jade ink slab, therefore got the alias the Town of Big Ink Slab (Dayanzhen).

◆ Shuhe Ancient Town (Lijiang)

Four kilometers (2 miles) to the northwest of the Old Town of Lijiang, at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Moun- tain, lies a compact village hidden in the forest, the Shuhe Ancient Town. UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) has listed it as an important component of Lijiang as it is a well-preserved example of a town along the ancient tea route and one of the earliest settlements of the ancestors of Naxi people. It is called 'the hometown of springs'.

◆ Tongli water Town (Suzhou)

Originally named Futu (meaning a rich land), Tongli is an age-old but very well preserved water town with a history of more than 1,000 years. Located on the eastern shore of Taihu Lake, just 11 miles (18 kilometers) from Suzhou City, the town is 24 square miles (63 square kilometers) in area and has a population of over 33 thousand. True to its reputation, Tongli is a really wonderful travel destination where you can spend a marvelous holiday or experience traditional Chinese culture. Follow this introduction and you will have a general idea of this captivating water-town.

◆ Zhouzhuang water Town (Suzhou)

Zhouzhuang, one of the most famous water townships in China, is situated in Kunshan City which is only 18 miles (30 kilometers) southeast of Suzhou. It is noted for its profound cultural background, the well-preserved ancient residential houses, the elegant watery views and the strong local colored traditions and customs. During the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC), the smalle town was a part of the fief Yaocheng and called Zhen- fengli. After being donated to Full Fortune (Quanfu) Temple by Zhou Digong, a very devout Buddhist, in 1086 during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), it got its present name as a memorial of the donor. In an area of 124 acres (half a square kilometer), 60 percent of the existing structures here were built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, which is from 1368 to 1911. Taking the most convenient form of transport here, a gondola, we will admire some of the breathtaking sights one by one. ◆ Wuzhen water Town (Hangzhou)

Wuzhen Water Town, lying in the northern part of Tongxiang City, Zhejiang Province, is a typical ancient town in southern China. It is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from both Hangzhou and Suzhou, and 87 miles (140 kilometers) from Shanghai. As one of the top six ancient towns in the southern region of the Yangtze River, Wuzhen boasts more than six thousand years of history and has always been a fertile land with abundant rice, fish and silk. It preserves the ancient appearance well and oozes charm of the water town itself. The small town, with houses made of black bricks and gray tiles contrasting sharply with the white walls, making it appear like a Chinese ink wash drawing. Stone bridges are seen here and there. Small boats with black awnings are floating on the murmuring rivers. Whether wandering along the riverside or strolling in the lanes paved with blue flagstones, you will be deeply impressed by the picturesque scenery and slow lifestyle. A crisscrossing river divides the whole Wuzhen Water Town into four scenic sections, which are respectively called as Dongzha, Nanzha, Xizha, and Beizha by local people. Since Nanzha and Beizha are less developed, tourists often prefer to visit Dongzha and Xizha. Dongzha maintains the basic original layout while Xizha has been reconstructed to reproduce the ancient appearance of the water town. Compared with Dongzha, Xizha is more bustling with numerous shops.

◆ Xidi and Hongcun Ancient Villages (Huangshan) Located in Yixian County of Huangshan City, Xidi and Hongcun Ancient Villages were listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 2000. They are the most representative local-style residences in southern Anhui Province. Construction of Xidi Village began during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). So far, it has a history of over 900 years. It is famed as being the 'Ming and Qing Dynasty Local Residence Museum'. It has about 124 ancient residences and three ancestral halls, including an archway, Linyun Pavilion, Eastern and Western Gardens, Ruiyu Courtyard, Taoli Garden, Da Fu Grand House and Lvfu Hall. Da Fu is an official title reserved for high ranking government officials in ancient China.

◆ Yangshuo town (Guilin) Yangshuo town is a county under the jurisdiction of Guilin City, in the northeast of Guangxi Province, China. Its seat is located in Yangshuo Town. Surrounded by karstpeaks and bordered on one side by the Li River it is easily accessible by bus or by boat from nearby Guilin.

In the 1980s, the town became popular with foreign backpackers, and by the late 1990s, packaged tourists began arriving in greater numbers. At that time, domestic tourists represented only a small fraction, but soon outnumbered foreign tourists by a greater margin in 2005. Today, the town is a resort destination for both domestic and foreign travelers. The history of West Street dates back to over 1400 years ago. Since the street is popular with locals and foreigners alike, signs are written in both Chinese and English. Due to the relatively high number of foreign visitors, many locals speak some English unlike Chinese towns of its size. ◆ Phoenix Ancient Town (Zhangjiajie)

The town is situated on the western boundary of Hunan Province in an area of outstanding natural beauty where mountains, water and blue skies prevail. Upon arrival visitor will be impressed by its air of mystery, elegance and primitive simplicity. This is a world that is dominated by the colour green. The mountain slopes are covered with green foliage, the fields are green and even the Tuo Jiang River reflects the greenery. The bridges over the water and unique houses built on stilts display a harmony that is so often portrayed in traditional Chinese paintings. The Miao ethnic minority is predominantly settled here and a visit to a Miao village is a must when going to the town. The Miao women have a natural beauty that renders the use of cosmetics quite unnecessary. They love to dress in traditional blue garments set off with a white scarf. They love also their silver jewellery especially during festivals. Visitors will find a large array of hand made items of silver ornaments for sale in the local shops. Home made tie-dyes, printed and batik cloths are other local specialities that make wonderful souvenirs.

◆ Zhongdian ( Shangri-la) Ancient Town (Diqing)

The city of Zhongdian, located in the Deqen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (also known as Diqing) of Yunnan Province. What a coincidence that "Shangri-la" means "Sun and Moon in the Hear" in the Tibetan Language while in the hearts of the Tibetan people, Zhongdian is Paradise. Degen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is situated in the northwest Yunnan Province, with Tibet to the west and Sichuan to the east. It is a harmonious blend of snow-covered mountains, gorges, prairies, lakes, and virgin forests. The remote location has also preserved local customs much as they were hundreds of years ago. It is a famous scenic spot excellent for photographers, nature lovers, hikers, and adventurers. There are countless snow peaks including Mount Kang Karbo, the highest peak in Yunnan Province. The Zhongdian region has 470 snow-covered mountains with an elevation of 4000 meters. Many gorges provide the opportunity to stop and enjoy the scenery. The most famous among them, Jinsha Tiger Leaping Gorge and Lianchajiang Gorge. The vast prairie, boundless virgin forests, and countless mountain lakes are mysterious, quiet, and delicately beautiful. More than 13 minorities such as Zhuang, Lisu, Han, Naxi, Bai, Hui and Yi etc. live in harmony while enjoying their unique lifestyles and customs in this region.

China officially has 55 ethnic minorities, and one majority, the Han Chinese. The ethnic peoples are concentrated in the south, west, and remoter northern regions of China.

◆ Kaili (Guizhou Province)

Kaili is the minority capital of China. It is known as “the city of festivals” because of the more than 100 festivals held each year, mostly by the Miao minority. The most famous is probably the Sisters Meals Festival. Kaili has many Miao villages open to tourists. There is also an Ethnic Minorities Museum.

◆ Lhasa (Tibet Province) ◆ Xishuangbanna (Yunnan Province)

Lhasa is truly a minority city. Capital of the roof of Xishuangbanna is China’s most rainforested the world and center of Tibetan culture, Lhasa’s prefecture, bordering Myanmar and Laos. Its Potala Palace, and the Dalai Lama who lived tropical lush environment supports the Dai and there, once represented the supreme authority Hani peoples, who make up about 30% and 20% for this people group. Now part of China, Tibet of the local population respectively. There are exists as an Autonomous Region still governed several Dai minority attractions including Manting from Lhasa. The temples and monasteries around Park and the Octagonal Pavilion. The Dai Water Lhasa are the most important for Tibetan Bud- Splashing Festival is held April 13–15. dhists.

The city of Guilin is mostly Han-ized, but Guilin’s famous karst countryside has been the traditional home of China’s largest minority, the Zhuang, for centuries. There are several designated Yao minority districts, and Gongcheng is a Yao County, famous for its oil tea.Yangshuo’s countryside, particularly along the popular cycling routes, is populated by Zhuang farmers. The legendary Zhuang “Song Fairy”, Liu’s Third Daughter, is honored to the point of worship by some. Her statue is paraded during the Zhuang Song Festival in April, and her story is told in the on-river show Impression Liu Sanjie, which also features other minority songs.Then there is Longsheng, known for its Dragon’s Back Rice Terrac- es, where the long-haired women of the Red Yao live. Their Red Clothes Festival is in April. The Zhuang of nearby ‘Safe and Sound’ Village have kept more of their costume and customs than those of Yangshuo. Further into the Long- sheng mountains are Dong and Miao villages.

◆ Hohhot (Inner Mongolia Province)

Hohhot is the capital of Inner Mongolia. While it is not the most ethnic city (only 13% minority people), it is the most accessible city with Mongol culture. The grasslands of Hohhot Prefecture are the place to see the nomadic pastoral lifestyle of the Mongols. Naadam, the Mongolian outdoor sports festival is celebrated in July/August on these grasslands. Mongol food is highly recommended.

◆ Turpan (Xinjiang Province)

Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has the greatest number of minorities of any Chinese region. The majority are Turkic/ Central Asian and Muslim in origin, like the Uygur, Kazakhs, Hui, and Kirghiz. Outside Urumqi, most Xinjiang cities are predominantly ethnic. Turpan is one of the more accessible of these. Visit Grape Valley to get in amongst Uygur culture, and for Uygur-style architecture see Emin Minaret.

◆ Kunming (Yunnan Province)

Kunming is truly a minority city with all of Yunnan’s 25 ethnic minorities represented, although 80% of the city population are Han. To get an impression of the variety of peoples living in Yunnan we recommend you see Yunnan Ethnic Village, a convenient way to experience many Chinese ethnic cultures without having to journey to a remote location. Most Popular Chinese Dishes ◆ Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and sour pork has a bright orange-red color, and a delicious sweet and sour taste. At the very beginning there was only sweet and sour pork, but to meet demands, there have been some developments on this dish. Now, the pork can be substituted by other ingredients like chicken, beef or pork ribs. Read the DIY recipes of sweet and sour pork ribs.

◆ Gong Bao Chicken

This is a famous Sichuan-style specialty, popular with both Chinese and foreigners. The major ingredients are diced chicken, dried chili, and fried peanuts.People in Western countries have created a Western-style gong bao chicken, for which the diced chicken is covered with cornstarch, and vegetables, sweet and sour sauce and mashed garlic are added.

◆ Ma Po Tofu

Ma po tofu is one of the most famous dishes in Chuan Cuisine with a history of more than 100 years. Ma (麻) describes a spicy and hot taste which comes from pepper powder, one kind of condiment usually used in Chuan Cuisine. The milky tofu is enriched with brownish red ground beef and chopped green onion. It is really a tasty delicacy. Read the DIY recipes of ma po tofu.

◆ Wontons

Since the Tang Dynasty (618–907), it has been a custom for people to eat wontons on the winter solstice. The most versatile shape of a wonton is simple a right triangle, similar to Italian tortellini. Wontons are commonly boiled and served in soup or sometimes deep-fried. The filling of wontons can be minced pork or diced shrimp.

◆ Dumplings

With a long history of more than 1,800 years, dumplings are a traditional food widely popular in North China. Dumplings consist of minced meat and chopped vegetables wrapped into a thin piece of dough skin. Popular fillings are mince pork, diced shrimp, ground chicken, beef, and vegetables. They can be cooked by boiling, steaming, or frying. Dumplings are a traditional dish eaten on Chinese New Year’s Eve.

◆ Chow Mein

The "Chow mein" is the Cantonese pronunciation of the Chinese characters above, which means stir-fried noodles. Generally speaking, this stir-fried dish consists of noodles, meat (usually chicken, beef, shrimp, or pork), onions and celery. For making chow mein, the noodles need to be cooked in boiling water for a while. After they becoming cool, then move to the step of stir-frying.

◆ Peking Roasted Duck

Peking duck is a famous dish from Beijing, enjoying world fame, and considered as one of China’s national dishes. Peking duck is savored for its thin and crispy skin. The Sliced Peking duck is often eaten with pancakes, sweet bean sauce, or soy with mashed garlic. It is a must-taste dish in Beijing!

◆ Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a Cantonese dim sum of cylindrical shape. The filling of spring rolls could be vegetables or meat, and the taste could be either sweet or savory. After fillings are wrapped in spring roll wrappers, the next step is frying. Then the spring rolls are given their golden yellow color. It is a dish especially popular in Jiangxi,

The Renminbi ( code: CNY) is the official currency of the People's Republic of China. The yuan is the basic unit of the renminbi, but is also used to refer to the Chinese currency generally, especially in international contexts where "Chinese yuan" is widely used to mention the Renminbi. The distinction between the terms renminbi and yuan is similar to that between sterling and pound, which respectively refer to the British currency and its primary unit. One yuan is subdivided into 10 jiao, and a jiao in turn is subdivided into 10 fen . The Renminbi is issued by the People's Bank of China, the monetary authority of China.

Currency Exchange in China

China Banks

The best place to exchange foreign currency in Beijing is the Beijing airport’s arrival area: just before you exit the arrivals gate and enter the terminal. On the side there is a Bank of China. This Bank of China booth does not charge for travelers' check and does not charge other fees for the transaction. It is also open 24-7, 7 days a week. Once you leave the arrivals gate you can’t reenter. Once you step out of the arrivals gate there are extra charges for exchange at all banks, including the Bank of China. Banks in China will exchange foreign currency Monday to Friday only, not on the weekends. All banks are open 7 days/week but will not do a foreign exchange transaction. Here we list the service number and official website of some major banks. If you have any problem, you can call for help!

Bank of China: http://www.boc.cn/en/index.html (Service number: 95566) Agriculture Bank of China: http://www.abchina.com/en/ (Service number: 95599) Industrial and Commercial Bank of China: http://www.icbc.com.cn/ICBC/sy/ (Service number: 95588) China Merchants Bank: http://english.cmbchina.com/ (Service number: 95555)

Exchange in ATMs or Hotels

If you do not want to line up and schedule for money exchange in the Bank of China, the ATMs and your hotels are good options. ATM machines are everywhere and you can choose to operate in English. There are some banks at the airport, if you exchange not more than 500$, will charge 30RMB for service fee there, except for the Bank of Agriculture. ATMs are also widely available, although only some will work with international cards. Look for machines with your card system’s logo. Bank of China machines accept most international cards and seem to be reliable and easy to use. Exchange rates and fees are controlled and the same everywhere within China, so usually it is the easiest way to change money at the airport or in your hotel. There are several major Chinese Banks and they are open 24 hours a day. Save receipts as these are needed to change Renminbi (yuan) back into foreign currency. Without the receipt WHERE and HOW you got the Yuan, they will not exchange your country's currency for you.

To sum up, money exchange in the business halls of banks in China charges no commission fees, but they only work for you from Monday to Friday, 09:00- 16:00. A commission is charged by the ATMs and hotels for money exchange, but they work for you 24 hours any day.

Credit Cards in China

Currently there are seven main foreign credit cards available in China, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, JCB, Federal and Million. Credit cards can be used for withdrawing money, shopping and other transactions in most major cities of the country, but generally not accepted in rural areas. Electricity and Voltage

In Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, the common power voltage is 220 Volt 50 Hz AC, but in Taiwan, electronic devices often work under the electricity supply voltage of 110V/60HZ. As the shapes of sockets and voltage vary among countries, a portable plug adaptor is usually necessary. It can be purchased in your local countries from stores like Franzus or electronics stores such as RadioShack and Best Buy. Also you can buy it in China.

Chargers of most electronic devices like cell phones, tablets, and cameras can function normally in the wide power voltage of 110~240V. Most hotels ranking above 3 stars in China provide electrical outlets of both 110V and 220V in the bathrooms, though in guest rooms usually only 220V sockets are available.

There are two kinds of sockets widely used in Mainland China: type A and type I. The type A can also accept plugs of type C or F, which are commonly seen in most European countries.

In China, this kind of outlets has two holes of the same shape and size. Plugs that match this socket are commonly used in US, Mexico, Canada, Japan, Philippines, Colombia, Thailand, Vietnam, Panama… But you should notice that there is a kind of two-blade plugs with one end larger than the other. They can’t be used in China without an adaptor.

Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and Fiji use electronic devices of this plug shape. Sometimes, the blade at the top is missed, but it can still function safely in Mainland China.

This kind of sockets is widely seen in most European countries, like Russia, Germany, Denmark, Poland, Finland, France, Sweden, and Spain, as well as South Korea.

◆ Emergency Numbers

Police (Calling) 110 Police (Text message) 12110 First-aid Ambulance 120 Fire 119 Traffic Accidents 122 SOS in Water 12395

Calling Tips: 1. 110, 120 and 119 are free calls. 110 may be used for all emergencies. It is the first number to call. Whether 119 or 120 is called depends on the situation. 2. The more details you can provide to the police, the better. At a minimum you will need to provide your name and location and give a description of the problem. If you don’t know the exact position, tell them the landmarks buildings nearby. If you are in a remote area, you will need to give the name of the town or village. After the call, you should keep your phone on in case they need to call you back. When you see a police car approaching, wave to them actively. 3. After calling 120, first-aid treatment is not encouraged. Unless you have first-aid training, you should just wait patiently for the doctors to arrive. 4. If you can leave the accident area, please wait for the rescue workers at some obvious places where they can easily find you.

◆ Questions & Complaints Complaints about Goods’ Qualities 12315 Complaints about Prices 12358 Post Code Information 184 Weather Forecast 12121 Phone Directory 114 Comprehensive Information 12580/ 118114 Railway Information 12306 Civil Aviation 950137

Calling Tips: Both 12580 and 118114 provide similar services but they are operated by different communication companies and you pay for all calls.. They can provide help with hotel bookings, local transportation transferring information and information about local attractions.

Bank of China 95566 Agricultural Bank of China 95599 China Construction Bank 95533 Industrial and Commercial Bank of China 95588 Bank of Communications 95559 Standard Chartered Bank 800-820-8088 Citibank 800-830-1880 HSBC 800-820-8828 Calling Tips: Almost all of these banks provide English self-service and some provide you English staff service, so if you have any trouble related to the bank, you will be well served by them. There is a cost for calling any of these numbers.

◆ Airline Companies & Major Airport Services

Air China 95583 China Eastern Airline 95530 Hainan Airlines 950718 Southern Airlines 400-669-5539 Beijing Capital International Airport 96158 Shanghai Pudong International Airport 96990

◆ Communications Services China Mobile 10086 China Unicom 10010 China Telecom 10000 Calling Tips: 1. All these numbers are free and provide services in English. 2. When you use China Mobile service to make international calls you need to add 12593 before the number you are calling and add 17951 when making national long distance calls.

◆ Express Delivery EMS 11183 SF Express 400-811-1111 Yuantong Express 021-69777888 Shentong Express 400-889-5543

Calling Tips: English services are provided by all these companies. These companies will send couriers to your house or hotel to help you to send out parcels.

A Chinese visa is a permit issued by visa authorities of the People’s Republic of China in accordance with its laws and regulations to a foreign citizen for entry into, exit from or transit through Chinese territory. The Chinese visa authorities will issue a diplomatic visa, courtesy visa, service visa or ordinary visa according to the foreign citizen’s status, purpose of visit and type of passport.

For more information, please click the official website of Chinese Visa Application Service Center.

https://www.visaforchina.org/

Step 1 Know Your Personal Needs & Interests

Tell us as much as possible about your ideal tour, such as your tour purpose, your special needs and interest, and your approximate travel budget, etc.

Step 2 Tailor-made Tour Proposal from Your 1-On-1 Tailor-made Tour Specialist(TTS) Email you within 24 hours (it may take up to 48 hrs on weekends or major public festivals).

Step 3 Based Our Communications, Get Several Prices Proposal.

Several prices according to different types of tour, then revise pricing according to your travel budget and personal needs. Step 4 Choose the Most Suitable Price & Tour Proposal

Step 5 Arrange Tour According to Your Preferences

Your preferences include food, tour guides, sleeping habits, etc, to ensure the best travel experienc- es for you. Step 6 Enjoy Your Most Unique Tailor-made Travel.

Step 7 Your TTS Call You in Tour and Ask for Your Valuable Feedbacks After Travel.

Your TTS will call you 2-3 days after your tour started to see if everything is in good hands. Please feel free to communicate with your TTS during your tour.