Beijing
Skyscrapers rise beside centuries-old temples on the broad boulevards of the Chinese capital. A new creative culture thrives along hútòng alleys, while world-class dining and high-end shopping define modern life in the
Pingdu
Mountain hikes, a kite festival and
locally harvested tea
Pingu offers ample opportunities for escaping to the stunning countryside on the city’s doorstep. Chashan Scenic Area’s boisterous monkey population lures wildlife lovers, while frozen waterfalls and mountain paths attract hikers regardless of the season. Slightly further afield, the imposing mountain of Dazeshan is covered with vineyards on its lower slopes, while the higher reaches have steep, challenging trails and rewarding countryside views.
After an exhilarating excursion, you can relax with a cup of locally grown Laoshan green tea at one of the many teahouses in Pingdu’s centre, and particularly clustered along Hangzhou Road. Locals are justifiably proud of their region’s nationally recognised produce. Pingdu grapes are so prized that there’s an annual Grape Festival near Dazeshan during the summer harvest.
Pingdu’s proximity to bountiful farmland makes dining out a memorable experience. Restaurants specialising in Shandong cuisine serve steaming bowls of shuǐjīng zhǒuzi stewed pork, or delicacies like bào chǎo yāo huā, stir-fried pig kidneys. If you’re dining with a crowd, you may prefer eateries offering pan-Chinese classics like huŏguō hotpot with fresh vegetables, which are best shared with friends and family.
In the spring, keep an eye on Pingdu’s skyline for colourful kites soaring on the breeze, especially around peaceful green spaces, like Xianhe Park, along the Xian river. Neighbouring city Weifang is believed to be the place where kites were invented, and people flock to the area in April for the annual Weifang International Kite Festival.
Discover also
Dongguan
An intriguing blend of laid-back charm and pulsating energy, Dongguan sits on the Pearl River Delta. The catalyst for the Opium Wars is fast becoming an eco-destination, thanks to the necklace of greenery wrapped around its heart.
Foshan
With a seamless blend of modern energy and ancient customs, Foshan is a 21st-century powerhouse backed by 5,000 years of history. As well as being the city of Bruce Lee, it’s also home to rich musical and creative traditions.
Guangzhou
As a bright star in China’s economic boom, many people come to Guangzhou on business, but return to explore its traditional shopping streets and incense-infused temples, or sample Cantonese yum cha eateries at their best.
Jinan
Jinan is known for its artesian wells, many of which are set in serene parks, but it’s also a gateway to China’s spiritual heartland. The home of Confucius and the country’s most sacred mountain are close to the “City of
Qingdao
The thought of Qingdao brings beer and beaches to mind, but scratch beneath the surface of this Yellow Sea resort, and you’ll find delicate cuisine featuring locally caught seafood, cute colonial streets and revered mountains.
Shanghai
A thriving cultural, culinary and commercial centre, Shanghai is the engine room of China’s economic boom. The pulsating metropolis is a place where ancient sites like Jing’an Temple sit comfortably beside ultra-modern towers.
Shenzhen
A new economic powerhouse with an eye to the future, Shenzhen has risen at breakneck speed beside the Pearl River. Peep behind the gloss to rediscover a city that continues to cherish its Buddhist heritage and Cantonese cuisine.
Wuhan
The capital of Hubei province, Wuhan draws crowds with its Yellow Crane Tower, a replica of the Qing-era marvel, but hidden wonders await in this huge city.
Xi'an
Best known for its terracotta warriors, Xi’an once marked the eastern end of the fabled Silk Road. Brimming with historic landmarks, from the Bell and Drum Towers to the Great Mosque, the ancient city also embraces modern China.
Xiamen
While well known for the Nanputuo Temple and its verdant gardens, along with the historic Hulishan Cannon Fort, the cosmopolitan oasis of Xiamen is fast becoming popular for its blend of beachside charm and modern city living.
Zhengzhou
Tree-lined avenues and restaurants serving Henanese cuisine set the tone for modern Zhengzhou. Yet kung fu and Bronze Age artefacts also come to mind when you think of the city, with its Shaolin temple and ancient ruins located
Ürümqi
Central Asia and China are juxtaposed in Ürümqi’s lively bazaars and shopping malls, Silk Road ruins and modern skyscrapers, and its minarets and pagodas. Uyghur heritage lends the city and its cuisine a unique flavour.
