China - What to Expect

The West Lake came from a shallow bay in ancient times where Qiantang River ran into the sea. It was formerly named as Wulin Water Golden Buffalo Lake, Qiantang Lake and Xizi Lake. As it lies in the west of Hangzhou, it was later named the West Lake. It covers an area of 6.6KM2, the average depth being 2.27M and the deepest being 5M. It has mountain on three sides and the city on the remaining one side.The Lake and mountain are magnificent. Centered on the West Lake Scenic Area is a national scenic area with a total area of 59KM2.

You gotta see the Forbidden City and venture out to see the Great Wall. It might be better now, but when I was there 5 years ago nobody spoke any English and everyone wanted to take pictures of us cause we looked so different. It can be a bit off putting at the start but you find out that the locals are really friendly. I recoomend finding an English speaking local tour guide and get them to introduce you to people. After that it's great!

If you real Guangzhou-nese food, go to SHANG XIA JIU, literal meaning: up down nine. A huge shopping block where only walking is allow.

Place must go-- The Great Wall (长城) The Forbidden City ( 紫禁城) Tian'anmen Square (天安门广场）The Palace Museum (故宫）Summer Palace (颐和园）Temple Of Heaven (天坛公园）The Ming Tombs (明13陵）Lamasery Of Harmony of Peace (雍和宫）Big Bell Temple (大钟寺）Gardens (北京园林）

乌镇西栅景区夜游 Night Tour to Wuzhen Xizha Scenic Zone and 宿住通安客栈 Tong An Hotel

Your Best Choice must try Dragon Well Green Tea 龙井茶 (Organic Tea) Beautiful West Lake 西湖

The Oriental Pearl Tower 东方明珠 The Space Module at 350 meters The Revolving Restaurant at 267 meters The Sightseeing floor at 263, 259 and 90 meters Space City at 90 meters in Lower Sphere

Home to the largest standing Buddha in the world. Very spectacular sight. Go early in the morning no matter the time of year, it will always be packed by noon. Hostels for about 100miles around should easily be able to book a trip here.

Visiting the Muslim Quarter is a must for some of the tastiest food in China.

Be prepared for long border crossings between Hong Kong and Shenzhen! Once you're through, the giant mall near customs is a great place to have clothes custom tailored. Within the mall, you may be approached by various females asking you to eat at "their restaurant". Those are usually pricier than normal, so pick and choose your own instead!