China is one of the most over populated country in the world; Apart from its diverse conservative cultures and traditions for which it is known, it is becoming one of the top major tourist destinations for travelers wishing to explore Asia. Many travelers and tourists have their fears about the safety, security and language barrier in China, but with the number of foreigners and tourists working and visiting big Chinese cities, you cannot but be tempted to embark on an adventure tour to China.

A very interesting fact about China is that it is borders fourteen countries on all its sides. This makes it easier for travelers and tourists to gain entry from any part of the country, although the formality of securing a Chinese visa is required. With a vast mainland, China has a lot of large and popular cities out of which Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, Xian and Yunnan serve as the most interesting places for tourists to visit. Other common destinations are the Great Wall of China, Tibet, Silk Road and the Hainan Island which is the tropical paradise of China.

China also has natural wonders like the famous Mount Huangshan popularly known as the Yellow Mountains and the Yangtze River. Tourists love to partake in the Yangtze River Cruise traveling more than 3900 miles from one end to the other. The longest river in China and one of the longest in the world, the river runs through eight provinces and has more than 700 tributary rivers with different itineraries for tourists and business trading operations. It is a common river cruise which many travelers tour because of the spectacular sceneries dotted by cliffs and curves in the gorges. A popular itinerary along the river cruise is between Chongqing and Wuhan.

The host the upcoming 2008 Olympics, Beijing is the historical city of China. There are various monuments and ancient Chinese architecture to see which demonstrates the history of ancient civilization. Places to visit in Beijing include the Forbidden City also known as the Palace Museum, the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, the Hutong villages which symbolizes the traditional housing of Chinese locals as well as other famous places. The popular man-made wonder of the world, The Great Wall of China is accessible from the north-west city of Beijing in Badaling. Badaling was the first section on the Great Wall to be opened to tourists from around the world and China. The recommended time to visit the Great Wall can last between two to three hours, but it is an experience meant to be treasured forever.

Shanghai, another popular city in China is the major commercial city in the country. So far, it has remained the most developed city and an attractive spot for international and local tourists. The beauty of Shanghai is that it is divided into two by the Huangpu River, with the older town on the west bank known as Puxi, and the new development on the east side called Pudong. Places to visit in Shanghai are the Bund: which is the colonial riverside of Shanghai; French Concessions: known as the Paris of the East and Nanjing Road: China’s most famous shopping pedestrian street.

China is a big country with many places to see and with its rapid economic growth, it is opened to visitors from around the world, so wake up, strap your seat belts and experience China as it would definitely reward you with long lasting memories.

Lola writes for Passport to China. An inbound tour operating company serving as your gateway to Tours in China [http://www.passport-to-china.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lola_Adewoyin

People seem to wonder what the Great China looks like, but its only when you tour the historical country, you begin to understand why China holds a lot to ancient civilization and histories. Tours in China varies from different cultural attractions to Chinese cultural sceneries and histories.

If you decide to tour a country like China, it is often advisable to consult an operator who specializes in tours in China to make sure that you enjoy your stay and make the most of your money. Most tour operators in China take time to look for thematic tours and tailor made tours to suit the interests of their customers. They assist in preparing accommodation and transportation all through the itinerary of the tours specially chosen. They provide a local guide who patiently takes customers around the tours of the different historical cities.

The best time of the year to tour China is usually May, September and October. These are the ideal and perfect time for a tourist to move around the borders of the country and visit the tourist destinations in most cities. In June to August, most tourists visit the north and central China because Southern China experiences a lot of rainfall during that time.

The Forbidden City and the Great Wall in the country’s capital Beijing is one of the many places that attract a lot of visitors. It is one of the highly anticipated tours and travel destination of all tourists. Going on a tour to China without stepping in these places is of no benefit to a tourist. Other Beijing tours include the Ming Tombs which showcases the Ming dynasty dated back to 1300, the Temple of Heaven and the Tian’an Men Square.

The three gorges is one of the famous attractions on the Yangtze River cruise which is yet another wonderful cruise to experience. A long cruise on the river makes you see reality as you can see others parts of China from across. Places like Beijing, Xian, Shanghai and Suzhou become live as you partake in this cruise on the Yangtze River.

A very wonderful attraction to see in an escape tour in China is the Wonders of Tibet. In Tibet, the rooftops of the many temples are well-known to many visitors and locals around. Known as the Roof of the world, Tibet is a wonderful place to visit with the mysterious culture and beautiful landscapes. Tibet boasts of many natural lakes which can leave you breathless and awe-struck.

Shanghai, one of the fastest developing and largest metropolis in China is known for its industrial, financial and historical components. Shanghai tours showcases the French Concession, a popular European district, the Bund known as the symbol of Shanghai which is an area located on the banks of the Huangpu River.

Not forgetting the terracotta warriors and horses of Xian which is one of the Eighth Wonder of the World. The Xi’an terracotta is one of the most significant findings of modern archaeology.

Tours in China are countless and unending due to the ravelling mysteries and historical stories of the ancient civilization which the great country boasts of. So if you are planning a trip, a tour to China is worth the money, the distance and most importantly worth the experience.

For comments and inquiries about the article visit China Tours and Travel [http://www.passport-to-china.com].

Lola Adewoyin writes for Passport to China. An inbound tour operating company serving as your gateway to Tours in China [http://www.passport-to-china.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lola_Adewoyin

Traveling to China is a must for anyone who wants to experience a unique, exotic and cultural tour. Many travelers like to travel to China using the services of different package tours organized by a travel agency or tour operator on the internet. If you don’t know where to go in China and would really want to experience the real life in China of how the minorities live their daily life, then it’s advisable to employ the services of a tour operator who specializes in thematic and tailor made tours in China. Usually, tour operators have local guides who will take you around and wherever you want to go, some of them even specialize in gathering many cultural activities for tourists to participate in.

The local guides provided by the tour operators are usually bilingual who makes communication between the tourists and the locals more effective. This way, you can ask a number of questions and request anything you want. The local guides are usually experienced and upon your arrival in the airport, they meet you (and your group) and stay with you throughout the tour. The hotel accomodations must have been arranged by the travel and tour operators prior your arrival who then later coordinates with the tour guide about the itinerary of the tour.

You may negotiate with the tour operator if you want a customized tour or a package tour. Usually, a package tour consists of a number of places to visit which features the tourist spots in China.

Package China tours are for a group of people set out for different itineraries. Sometimes, thematic tours are also organized for tourists wishing to visit China just to experience highlights with a specific theme. A great example would be a tour which consists of itineraries focused on different historical places and symbols in China. This may include the Great Wall in Beijing, the terracotta warriors of Xian, Rooftops of Tibet and not forgetting the Yangtze River Cruise.

A 12-15 day tour in China can also include itineraries such as Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Shanghai and Hongkong. A very common itinerary which many tourist love to have is the Beijing and Tibet tour. This tour highlights the evolution of the Chinese history and culture from years back to recent civilizations. Many of the great attractions of the Beijing tour are great for the cultural exposure of the tourist.

So if you are planning a tour to the Far East and worried about getting around in China, tour operators who specialize in package tours to China are more than willing to perform these services for you.

For comments and inquiries about the article visit
Passport to China Tours [http://www.passport-to-china.com].

Lola Adewoyin writes for Passport to China. An inbound tour operating company serving as your gateway to Tours in China [http://www.passport-to-china.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lola_Adewoyin

o Hotel Travel Guide China – International Brand hotels, 4 and 5 Star

Mostly these types of 4 and 5 star hotels will be ok, generally they will be run by a western boss and have western heads of all the departments.

Training, etc, of the staff, consistency of the level service from an international brand hotel is important, so most will have enough English speakers around to make your stay welcome and hassle free.

The breakfast will be catered for both Chinese and Western appetites, with the hotel occupancy rate around 50 – 50 Chinese to Westerner.

o Hotel Travel Guide China – Chinese hotels, 4 and 5 stars within the Major Cities

Within the major cities, most will be as the International brands and the level of service just as good.

Within the restaurants and shops, the English should be at a level that you would get most things without too much bother.

If the clientele is Westerner and Chinese, the breakfast will be all the usual food that you will recognize.

o Hotel Travel Guide China – Chinese hotels, 4 and 5 star, Rural location

I lot of Chinese travel, for these hotels this is their major business, not westerners, the westerners are classed as an extra, which has come along over the last few years.

Some have not learnt to deal with this extra business yet.

These more out of the way Chinese 4 and 5 Star hotels are a little different; comparatively the fixtures and fitting will be the same standard as any 4 or 5 Star hotel, however sometimes the same care and attention in the maintenance and service to the customer will be different to what you will be used too.

Not necessarily worst or bad, just different.

Western and Chinese expectations in all areas of the China travel business are different, this is the why I set up Travel-the-Real-China .com.

The level of English generally will not be as good, so just take your time, they will find someone, or you will work, just keep your cool.

I have stayed at some great Chinese 4 and 5 star hotels, and been very happy, so do not be put off.

All I have visited have been clean tidy and for an overall statement: a pleasant stay was had by all.

The breakfast will be a Chinese breakfast and if it is a regular stop for Western travelers, some western food will be served.

If it is an out of the way place, you may not get the type of breakfast you expect, the Chinese eat different things for breakfast, so to get a simple cup of tea or coffee and some toast just will not happen.

There will be hot water, if you have to have your tea or coffee, bring your own.

The breakfast will have lots of food, just not, what you will be expecting.

o Hotel Travel Guide China – Chinese hotels, 3 star

These 3 star Chinese hotels usually gets very high traffic and occupancy… mostly Chinese, and now the westerners, especially with the major cities

For these hotels, maintenance is not high on there lists, so you may find a few things that will not work or have fallen of the wall.

If it is dangerous, most of the time, something will be done, otherwise no one will care.

Within the major cities most will be clean and tidy and offer some sort of western food for breakfast. Out in the remoter areas… not really.

The breakfast will have lots of food, just not, what you will be expecting.

Take some tea and coffee if you really need this there will always be hot water.

The level of English within the major cities will be, just enough for you to check in, and out in the remoter areas, checking in can take come time.

There is a high number of these hotels and it can be a great way to see the country, in Tibet the 3 star hotels are a little pricy, however within China most are good value and will be clean with showers in all the rooms.

You just need to be a where; its good value, clean and some small things maybe a little frustrating with it, however that’s China.

Go with the flow, its part of the adventure of China.

o Hotel Travel Guide China – Shanghai hotels – Special rates and location

I know of a few small and very good value inner city hotels within Shanghai.

These are Chinese hotels and will not be on anyone’s list to book, as they are new and classed as Chinese business hotels.

Please contact to author if you would like to know more details.

I hope this Hotel Travel Guide China gives you a good overview if you would like more info please let me know.

John Mckenna

http://www.Travel-the-Real-China.com

john@travel-the-real-china.com

Hi I’m John Mckenna, I am from New Zealand and have lived in Shanghai China now for 3 years.

I own and operate http://www.Travel-the-Real-China.com my site provides experienced based Travel and Tour information on the wonders of Travel in China, the Real China, Ancient China, China at its very best.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Mckenna

When it comes to culture and lifestyle, you can also witness a huge diversity from the more civilized and cosmopolitan east coast to the rural west and its many ethnic tribes. Together with the extremely different climates of the north and south, China certainly has a lot to offer its visitors. Here are some very good reasons to visit China.

China welcomes all visitors with warm hospitality and upgraded infrastructure

In recent years, China has been changing rapidly for the better to boost its reputation as a country with a decent quality of life and a haven for tourists. Visitors in China can now enjoy relatively unrestricted access to most of its famous sights today as compared to in the past, bearing testament to the opening up of China tourism. Besides, you can also enjoy warm hospitality by the locals, who have been learning the English language to better communicate with foreigners.

You can easily find accommodation that fits your budget and preferences, with hotels springing up at most tourist hotspots. Getting to and around China has also never been easier, as the airlines and rail systems have seen dramatic improvements.

China has the best natural sites that will take your breath away

Visiting China’s natural sites is certainly an experience that you will remember for a long time, whether or not you are an avid nature admirer. Here, you will find some of the most spectacular scenery that you can find anywhere in the world.

Some masterpieces of the master sculptor called Mother Nature take the form of the most breathtaking peaks, including the karst hills in Guangxi province as well as the beautiful Huangshan with its pine forests and mist-covered peak. Even more picturesque scenery awaits you in northern Sichuan. Jiuzhaigou, a world-famous valley, contains one of the most incredible collections of lakes, waterfalls, lakes and forests. Be prepared for an eye-opening and uplifting experience.

China preserves its past well and shows it off to the world in style

If you are an admirer of authentic Chinese architecture or majestic man-made structures, China has them all. These structures have not only taken their rightful places in world history, but they have been preserved so well that they can still be enjoyed relatively intact by present day generations.

Arguably one of the most awe-inspiring constructed structures is the Great Wall of China which snakes endlessly in all directions and is a must-see for all visitors to China. In addition, a visit to the Forbidden City or the Museum of Terracotta Warriors and Horses is also highly recommended. Even if you are staying in a major city, chances are that you will spot many structures with authentic Chinese architecture, be they temples, gardens, palaces or other historical buildings.

China will amaze you with its many fascinating events and festivals

To truly immerse yourself in Chinese culture, it is always a good idea to participate in the events and festivals that China hosts every year.

China can boast to have held some of the biggest international sporting and cultural events in the form of the Beijing Olympics and Shanghai World Expo, with even more coming up in the future. With China sparing no expense in making these events a success, you can be assured of a quality experience.

For an even more authentic local flavour, do not miss out on some of China’s most colourful and exciting festivals. These festivals often showcase some of the most viscerally-appealing dances, practices and festive cuisine that you will ever experience. Examples include the Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival.

If these reasons are sufficient to persuade you to visit China, you might want to make adequate preparations for your trip. Chan Brothers Hotel Portal is the resource for all your hotel needs. Here, you can search and book some of the best hotels in China at competitive rates, and even enjoy special promotion discounts for selected hotels. Most of all, instant confirmation is guaranteed for your booking.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Brad_Lee

The People’s Republic of China – one of the world’s oldest and thriving civilizations consisting of states and cultures dating back to more than 6 millennia, outpacing the rest of the world in arts and sciences. Ancient China is the master creator of four of the most critical innovations in our modern world: paper, compass, gunpowder, and printing, says British biochemist and scholar Joseph Needham. Besides, who does not know of the Great Wall, Jackie Chan, or the Peking Man who used fire 300-780 millennia ago?

China’s cultural sphere has extended to the tiny corners of the world from Southeast Asia, East Asia, America, Australasia, to Europe. CHINATOWN contributes significantly to this mobility with its presence celebrated in the whole of Asia, Middle East, Oceania, North America, Latin America, Europe, and even Africa. The first Chinatown was established in Manila, but this is more of a commerce and trade hub nowadays, than as ethnic enclaves for overseas Chinese. This is mostly the world’s (AND our) orientation to Chinese culture; however, Chinatown is apparently a part and parcel of this greater culture.

GEOGRAPHY

China, an East Asian country on coordinates 35 00 N, 105 00 E, is the 4th largest country in the world after Russia, Canada, and the U.S. with a total area of 9,596,960 km². It has a terrain of mostly plains, hills, and deltas in the East, and mountains, plateaus, and deserts in the west, with rivers flowing from West to East, i.e. Yangtze and Huang Ho (main rivers), emptying into the Pacific Ocean. Elevation extremes comprise of Turpan Pendi, the lowest point (-154 m), and Qomolangma (Mount Everest), the highest point (8,850 m). China currently deals with ecological concerns of air and water pollution, water shortages, deforestation, and trade of endangered species.

CLIMATE

With an extremely diverse climate brought about by a vast territory, China experiences frequent typhoons, floods, tsunamis, land subsidence, earthquakes, and droughts in some regions.

Northern Zone: Summer-30 ° C; winter- sever arctic

Central Zone: Temperate continental

Southern Zone: Subtropical

PEOPLE

China ranks as the most heavily populated country in the world with 1,336,860,000 people, comprising 19.62% of the world’s population as of April 10, 2010, not even including Hong Kong, China, and Macao. Of this population are 56 ethnic groups with the Han Chinese taking the cake as the largest single ethnic group in the world with 92% of the PRC population. Nonetheless, all Chinese, regardless of ethnicity, have equal national rights and privileges.

LANGUAGE

MANDARIN is Modern China’s official language spoken by 850 million Chinese. The Standard Mandarin is of the Beijing dialect and one of the six official languages designated by the United Nations. ENGLISH is the nation’s language for business and education with a growing demographic of 20 million speakers produced annually. A majority of China’s 55 ethnic groups have their own varieties and dialects, like Cantonese, Fukien, and so on.

RELIGION

China’s social values are rooted on Confucianism and Taoism. The nation respects multi-religiosity with Taoism practiced by 400 million of the Chinese population (30%), whereas Buddhism is practiced in harmony with Taoism. Freedom of religion and activities relating to belief are protected by the constitution, hence the presence and acceptance of Christianity and Islam in the region as well.

ATTRACTIONS

In China, “attractions” is an understatement, but the most famous are the majestic Great Wall, out-of-this-world Tibet, the unmatched Silk Road, the mystifying Terra-Cotta warriors, the imperial Forbidden City, and the grand Yangtze River. Hainan Island, a Special Economic Zone, remains a total backpacker destination for its natural grandeur coupled with a mild climate and favourable environment the whole year round. Tagged as “The Oriental Hawaii” for its unmatched beach landscapes, this is China’s sweet winter escape where young people like to chill and old people prefer to live.

Natural or man-made, China takes pride in them all. Indeed, Chinese architecture is greater than just its wall. From China’s temples to palaces, the traveller will note of the principle of balance and symmetry smeared from its ornate roofs to the infinitesimal design details. In modern architecture, China has the largest number of high-rise buildings in the world.

FOOD

Every single human being has an established concept of “Chinese food” such as rice or noodle toppings in a box, but it really is a general term as “European cuisine” as food is diverse as the regions in China. Rice is the staple in the South, while wheat noodles, in the North. We’re talking Guang Dong’s Dim Sum, Shanghai’s spring rolls and pulled noodles, and Szechuan peppery dishes to cite some. Beijing may be the home of the Peking duck, but Cantonese food is the most popular to the world. Food trip alone will be a good reason to take a trip to China for its enthusiastic gastronomic culture. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that Chinese gourmands on and off the street ensure fresh and clean food. For “dog lovers”, they also serve dog meat, camel’s paw, snake, shark’s fin and other bizarre exotica.

ODD-BALL HABITS

* Spitting ubiquitously (hotels, hospitals, banks, supermarkets, etc.);
* Slurping noodles (compliments to the chef!);
* Staring incessantly due to curiosity;
* Shoving in queues and accepted negligence to laws and regulations i.e. driving, smoking zones, etc.;
* Shouting or loud speech is simply vivacity and interest in conversation (not anger) and is very standard.

Backpacking Addictz is a website set up by backpackers for the use of backpackers. On this site you will find a lot of very valuable information surrounding different destinations around the world and tips and advice on budget travel and backpacking. You will also find an enthusiastic and insightful backpacking blog which is regularly updated with new posts and article.

Backpacking Addictz Travel eGuides are a fantastic, cheap and easy way to get hold of a vast amount of backpacking information prior to setting off on your backpacking adventure.

**This article may be re-published so long as all links and author acknowledgments are made**

Josh Boorman
Editor-in-Chief
Herika Lui Manaligod
Co-contributor
Backpacking Addictz
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Backpacking Addictz offers realistic and unbiased information on a variety of different backpacking issues and destinations throughout the world. This will be maintained through daily blogs, stories from other backpacker’s experiences, reviews of travel destinations, products and ofcourse Backpacking Addictz – Backpacking Guides which we would encourage every backpacker to obtain before venturing off into foreign lands.

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When you’re planning a China tour, it would be best if you choose an tour package that includes as much as possible. Finding hotels, looking for the right restaurant and arranging the transportation are all tedious work that best left for your tour agent to work out. The China tour package covers all hotels, city transportation, and most of your meals would make the China trip easier. And as well, it would be great if the tour package including the best airfare deals from your country to China. Then you will be free and leisure on this trip.

When on the China tour, the accommodations will be the most important to you after a full day sightseeing, as you maybe very tired. The tour packages that offer 4 star or 5 star hotels for your choice, which would make you fully relax and enjoy the trip. And the 4 Star or 5 Star hotels would offer you standard or luxury accommodation that you feel very comfortable.

The China cities and tourists attractions you see and the local Chinese you meet during the trip will lead you to good memory in your life. The capital city of Beijing in China, could offer you a great place to begin with any of your China tour. Beijing has plenty of cultural and historical remains throughout the world, Great Wall, Forbidden City and Summer Palace, are the places you never to miss.

Xian, Once was one of the greatest cities in the world, the signs of human habitation date back to 6000 years, is known for the Terra-cotta Warriors. Also, Xian is regarded as one of the birthplaces of the ancient civilization in the Yellow River Basin area of China. This booming city attracts more and more visits traveling to China.

No China tour is perfect without touring the wonderful scenery of Guilin, where rivers and karst peaks covered in lush greenery. If asked which of China’s natural scenery is the best to see, most Chinese people are certainly to point out to the beautiful scenery of the Guilin area, as the ancient Chinese saying goes: Guilin’s attractions top China.

Your China tour trip will bring you good memories everlasting. Finding a right China tour operator and tour package would assure you a safe and smooth trip. And good luck for your trip.

Written by John Meng – a China tour specialist from http://www.tourtravelchina.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Tom_Meng

1) How do I apply for a China Visa? This is the number one most frequently asked question. A China Visa is necessary for travel to all parts of China from the United States. Applications can be obtained from most every passport processing agency in America. China visa applications are also available online and from local U.S. Post Offices. Completed application forms and required documentation can be submitted in person or by mail. China visa application forms cannot be submitted electronically.

2) What documentation must accompany my China visa application form? You must submit several documents along with your completed application form. You must send or present a valid U.S. passport. The passport’s expiry date must be greater than six months away from the date of submission. The passport must also have no fewer than two blank visa pages left. If either of these criteria cannot be met then you must apply for a new passport/passport renewal first. You must also submit a passport regulation photo, proof of planned travel to China (a trip itinerary OR a photocopy of airline tickets which shows that the trip is to take place within three months) and confirmation of hotel reservations in China. It’s critical that all of these documents are presented. Omission of one or more will result in rejection of your application. It’s also crucial that you ensure that your china visa application form is filled out entirely. Don’t leave any blanks unfilled, and be sure to sign it in ink.

3) Who is required to fill out a China visa application form? Every U.S. citizen/landed immigrant wishing to travel to China must submit a China visa application. No traveler will be admitted to the country without a China visa. This includes business and pleasure travelers as well as students.

4) How far in advance should I apply for a China visa? You cannot apply any further in advance of your trip than three months. It is highly recommended that you apply no later than three months in advance of your intended departure date. The more time that you can allow for processing of your application the better. This will ensure that even if delays in the mail, at the application center, or at the Chinese consular occur you will still get your China visa in time for your trip. If your trip is unexpected and will be taking place in less than three months, it’s possible to expedite the application process. Expediting fees will apply. Your passport processor has a schedule of these fees.

5) How long is a China visa valid for? Typically a traveler can stay in China up to sixty days after entering the country. If you expect your trip to last longer, you may request a ninety-day visa. These are granted by the Chinese Consulate on a case-by-case basis. You must demonstrate the necessity of staying for more than sixty days to get this extension. However, all travelers must realize that length of stay can be granted at the discretion of the consulate. They reserve the right to restrict the validity of any stay.

“How do I apply for a China visa” and other common questions can be answered by most passport processing agencies. This includes online outlets. You can also address questions to your local Chinese embassy.

Jenny Schweyer is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest. She writes extensively on travel and related themes.

Deluxe Passport Express: U.S. PASSPORTS AND VISAS EXPEDITED IN 24 HOURS.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Schweyer

According to legend, in 2737 BC, the Chinese emperor Shen Nung was sitting beneath a tree, while his servant boiled drinking water, when some leaves from the tree blew into the water. It is impossible to know whether there is any truth in this story, but drinking tea has been a part of Chinese culture for many centuries. In 800 A.D. a writer named Lu Yu, known as the tea sage, wrote the Tea Classic. It was shortly after this that tea was first introduced to Japan by Japanese Buddhist monks who had traveled to China to study.

People throughout China drink tea daily because of its healthful properties. Various kinds of tea are grown in the vastly differing geographic locations and climatesof China. Chinese teas generally fit into five classifications.

Green Tea
Green tea is a very lightly fermented (dried) tea that keeps its original color during processing. This category consists mainly of Longjing tea of Zhejiang Province, Maofeng of Huangshan Mountain in Anhui Province and Biluochun produced in Jiangsu.

Note: The term fermentation when applied to tea is something of a misnomer, as the term actually refers to how much a tea is allowed to dry. The drying may be stopped byeither pan frying, baking or steaming the leaves before they are completely dried.

Black Tea
Black tea, known as red tea (Hong Cha) in China, is fermented before baking. It is a later variety developed from green tea. The best brands of black tea are Qihong of Anhui, Dianhong of Yunnan Suhong of Jiangsu, Chuanhong of Sichuan and Huhong of Hunan

Wulong Tea
This is a variety between the green and black teas, and is partially fermented. It is a specialty from the provinces on China’s southeast coast, Fujian Guangdong and Taiwan.

Compressed Tea
This tea is compressed and hardenedintoshapes, usually a brick,but sometimes formed into cakes or shaped into a bowl. It is easy to transport and store and is mainly used by the ethnic minority peoples. Compressed tea is black in color, and is known as “black tea” or “brick tea”. It is mainly produced in Hubei, Hunan, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces.

Scented Tea
This kind of tea is processed by mixing fragrant flowers with tea leaves. The flowers most commonly used for this purpose are jasmine and magnolia. Jasmine tea is a well-known favorite with residents of northern China and with a growing number of foreigners.

Chinese people believe a good cup of tea is made from a combination of high quality tea leaves and water, brewed in fine tea ware. Normally, the finest tea is grown at altitudes of 3,000 to 7,000 feet (910 to 2,124m). Pure, sweet water, whether from a spring or rain and snow water, is the best for making tea. The most favorable tea ware is purple clay pottery made in the Yixing Area (Jiangsu province), and porcelain wares from Jingdezhen (Jiangxi province).

The tea ceremony, with its four basic principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, plays an important part in Chinese life. It is a way to focus mental energies, relax, and enjoy an ancient tradition. Serving Chinese tea is done in such a way to show courtesy and respect to a guest, and tea is offered immediately to a guest in a Chinese home. There are many customs associated with the tea ceremony, but no matter the style used in serving, it is always done in a way to show consideration and respect to the guest, and emphasize the beauty and symbolism of the service.

Here is a China Tea tour designed to capture the essence China’s tea culture combined with rich natural and cultural attractions. You will visit regions of China famous for Oolong and Dragon Well green tea as well as tour historic sites in Beijing and Shanghai.

Day 1 Arrive in Beijing
Depart on your flight bound for Beijing, the capital of People’s Republic of China. Upon your arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel.

Day 2: Beijing
Full-day tour will begin at the magnificent Forbidden City, home to emperors for over 500-years. Strolling through Tiananmen Square, which is the largest square in the world. Continue to witness the splendor of the Summer Palace,built as a royal garden for Qing Dynasty Emperors. This evening, you are invited to a Peking duck banquet.

Day 3: Beijing
A full-day tour will take in the grandeur of the Eighth Wonder of the World, the Great Wall, built more than 2000 years ago to protect China from northern invaders. On the way back to Beijing stop and visit the sacred Ming Tombs, where 13 emperors of Ming Dynasty were buried. Enjoy a spectacular Chinese Kongfu performance in the evening.

Day 4: Beijing
Visit the famous Beihai Park and walk leisurely through the old Hutong area. Tonight you are invited to enjoy the local cultural performances at Lao She Teahouse.

Day 5: Beijing – Wuyi Mountain
After breakfast, admire the beauty of The Temple of Heaven where the Chinese emperors prayed for good harvest in ancient days. Enjoy shopping in the Wangfujing Street. Transfer to the airport and fly to Wuyi Mountain, the birthplace of Oolong Tea. Arrival and check in the local hotel.

Day 6: Wuyi Mountain
Enjoy the tour to the famous “Thread in the Sky” crevasse, the “Cloud’s Lair” mountain over-look and the secluded Ming Dynasty “Rock Tea” garden known as Da Hong Pao (”Big Red Robe”). The highlights of our trip also include the visit to the local Oolong Tea gardens and bamboo rafting through the amazing rock formations along the banks of the Nine-Bends River.

Day 7: Wuyi Mountain
Today you will visit the tea hill where you will pick tea leaves and taste the fresh local tea.

Day 8: Wuyi Mountain – Fuzhou
You will be transferred to the airport and fly to Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province. Arrival and visit the famous Yong Quan Temple (Gushing Spring Temple). Check in the local hotel tonight.

Day 9: Fuzhou – Hangzhou
Continue your trip to the hometown of the most famous Dragon Well Tea, Hangzhou. Arrival and visit the local tea farming village where you will follow the traditional frying tea process to choose and fry tea leaves yourself! Check in the local hotel tonight.

Day 10: Hangzhou
Relax on a wonderful cruise of China’s most famous Lake, West Lake; it is symbol of Hangzhou as well as one of the most beautiful sights in China. Then visit the Six Harmonies Pagoda. Ascending to the top of the pagoda and looking down, you will have a panoramic view of the beauty of the Qiantang River, feeling as if “standing above the highest level of the sky”.

Day 11: Hangzhou / Shanghai
In this morning, you will travel to Shanghai, the biggest city of China. Arrival and visit the Yuyuan Garden surrounded by the vast numbers of the shops, rest up at the local Tea House. Check in your hotel in the evening.

Day 12: Shanghai
Visit the world famous waterfront – The Bund. It was once part of the foreign concessions and out-of-bounds to locals. Then explore the magnificent Nanjing Road and the Jade Buddha Temple that is famous for its Jade Buddha. After dinner, proceed for a city tour to Pudong New District – Shanghai’s main financial district and enjoy a scenic night cruise on Huangpu River.

Day 13: Depart
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your homeward flight and complete the most exciting China tea tour.

For more information, please contact China Connection Tours!

China Connection Tours, an excellent China tour operator, has over twenty-years of experience in tour operating and specializes in custom China tours for individuals and groups; offers more than 300 China tour packages: Classical China tours, Yangtze tours, Yunnan tours, China Tea Tour …
Tel: (800) 320 9088 (for US & Canada area, 7 X 24 service)
+86 (29) 8765 0440 (local number, 7 X 24 service)
+86 (29) 8765 0440 (9:00am to 7:00pm)
Fax: +86 (29) 8526 2670
Email: info@china-tour.cn
Website: http://www.china-tour.cn

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Duff

China is one of the world’s oldest continuous civilizations. This country has the highest population in the whole world and some amazing sights for tourists to see. It is famous for it electronic goods, travel and tourism.

A visit to China is like a visit to another world. It has different culture, different food and different people. China has several attractions to offer the tourists. It is like a treasure box that hides some of the best tourist places.

Beijing is the capital of the China. It is the most popular city of the country and famous for its cultural and historic places. Beijing has a number of temples, parks, museums and ancient houses. So, if you are willing to gather the information about the rich history and culture of China, Beijing is an ideal place for you. When staying in Beijing it is now possible to rent self catering holiday apartments.

If you are visiting China for the first time then you should explore The Great Wall Of China. It is one of the seven wonders of the world. It is China’s most important cultural and historic symbols. It starts from the Shanghaiguan in the east of China and ends in the Jiayuguan in the west of China. It covers a total distance of around 6,300 kilometers.

The Great Wall of China was first built as a defense line against the nomadic incursions. The construction of this wall was begun around seventh century BC. Every year millions of tourists visit the great wall and are amazed by its sheer scale. The Wall of China is also known as a paradise for photographers. So, if you have a passion for photography, take your camera and be sure to visit this amazing sight.

Another popular tourist destination of China is the Forbidden City. It is also known as the Palace Museum or Imperial Palace. It is located in the center of the Beijing. This place is ideal for those people who love to gather information about the history of the country. The Forbidden City is also one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites.

For all those people who love to spend their holidays near to nature, the Heavenly Lake is the best place for them. This lake is situated in the east of Tianshan Mountain range. The lake is surrounded by the snow covered mountains that make it one of the most beautiful lakes of the world. This lake has an average depth of 60 meters and you can witness ice bergs, ice mushrooms and ice fountains. If you are lucky enough you will be able to rent holiday home accommodation in this region.

China also offers several places for worshiping like the Temple of Heaven. This temple is the largest temple and altar complex in China. You can get the experience of a peaceful atmosphere and also enjoy walking through its beautiful park. You can also watch local people doing Tai Chi and other forms of exercise like dancing. You can also relax in this place in a peaceful atmosphere.

To experience the marine life of China, you can explore the Ocean Aquarium in China. This is one of the favorite tourist spots of the country. Ocean Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the world. You can see several marine creatures here and it is well worth a visit.

China has made a real effort in the last few years to encourage tourists and has relaxed its regulations to accommodate them. In some parts of China it is now possible to rent holiday home accommodation. If you get the chance to rent a holiday home in China it will allow you to experience the real China and get a true feel of the culture of this unique country.

China has made a real effort in the last few years to encourage tourists and has relaxed its regulations to accommodate them in holiday rentals. In some parts of China it is now possible to rent holiday apartments. If you get the chance to rent a holiday home in China it will allow you to experience the real China and get a true feel of the culture of this unique country.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Gibson