Undoubtedly one of the world's most famous monuments, the Great Wall of China is a triumph of ancient Chinese engineering that dates back to the early 7th century and stretches over 5,500 miles. There are many locations to visit but the Mutianyu section is a good bet, being reasonably accessible from Beijing and relatively uncrowded.
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You'll need a full day to explore even a fraction of the 980 buildings and several thousand chambers of this sprawling palace complex. Located in central Beijing, it was constructed in the 15th century and was the centre of Chinese government for over 500 years. It's also known as the Imperial Palace but its popular nickname arose because no one was allowed in or out without the Emperor's permission, on pain of death.
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This underground mausoleum of terracotta figures was discovered in 1974, completely by chance. It's since gone on to become one of the world's most famous archaeological sights and one of the biggest China attractions. The figures depict the armies of Qin Shi Huang, China's first Emperor, and over 8000 horses, chariots and warriors.
Situated in Beijing's Dongcheng District, this Daoist temple complex was constructed in the early 15th century during the reign of the Yongle Emperor. It consists of three main collections of buildings, including the show-stopping Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, constructed entirely from wood without the use of a single nail.
Also known as Spring Festival, Chinese New Year is one of the big attractions in China and is celebrated on a huge scale throughout the country. It takes place over a 2-week period in January or February, with dates determined by the lunar calendar. Expect traditional foods, festivities and more fireworks than you can shake a stick at.
For more information on Chinese New Year, click here.
This traditional festival commemorates the suicide of Qu Yuan, a well-loved Chinese poet who drowned himself in 278BC. It takes place on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, and see locals race traditional dragon boats and chow down on zòngzi, rice dumplings steamed in bamboo leaves.
For more information on Dragon Boat Festival, click here.
This 2-week throwdown takes place during August in Qingdao, China's 'Sailing City' and home of the beloved Tsingtao beer. Asia's biggest beer festival, it's attended by brands and beer-lovers from all over the world. Need a break from the booze? Walk off some of those calories on nearby Shi Lao Ren beach.
For more information on Qingdao International Beer Festival, click here.
This museum of ancient Chinese art is located in a distinctive building in the People's Square, and is one of the best known in the country. It's home to over 120,000 exhibits in varying media, including sculptures, bronzes, ceramics, jades, paintings and calligraphy.
For more information on the Shanghai Museum, click here.
The undisputed China food heavyweight champion. Slivers of succulent roast duck with thinly sliced cucumber and spring onions, wrapped up in small pancakes then dipped in hoisin sauce.
Consisting of minced meat or shrimp with vegetables wrapped up in a thin skin of dough, these bite-sized mouthfuls of joy are served all over the country, but Xi'an is their spiritual home. There are more varieties than you could possibly sample in one sitting, but you'll have fun trying!
Best eaten at –Wangfujing Night Market, 186 Wangfujing St, Dongcheng, Beijing
