Suzhou: Known as the "Venice of China", it has many canals running through the city, upon which you can take boat rides. At night these traditional streets are festively lit up with vibrant lights. There are many cafes and interesting shops along these canals.
Chengdu: Located in western China, it is famous for giant pandas. It has the world's best breeding facility for this species, which is native to this area. Located in Sichuan Province, it is known for Sichuan cuisine, which is extremely spicy. Nearby is the Leshan Giant Buddha, a huge Buddha statue carved into the side of a mountain.
Xian: A city with thousands of years of history, it was the capital of 13 dynasties and the origin of the Silk Road. Most famous for the Terracotta Army, a collection of roughly 8000 unique, hand-carved stone soldiers that were meant to accompany the first emperor of China into the afterlife.
Beijing: The capita of China and a center of culture, politics and history. It is home to Peking University, China's top college. A major attraction is the Great Wall of China, a 21,196 kilometer series of discontinuous fortifications designed to protect China from northern invaders. The Forbidden City is also here. It was finished in 1420 and was the home of 24 emperors until 1911.
Macau: Know as the "Vegas of China" it has a massive gambling industry that is much larger than Las Vegas. It has the 2 biggest casinos in the world. A former Portuguese colony, it is famous for European architecture and Portuguese foods like egg tarts. It close to Hong Kong and easily reached by car or ferry boat.
Shanghai: A major economic hub of China. Yu Garden, pictured above, was built in 1577 as a private retreat. It features tranquil ponds full of Koi fish, weeping willow trees, ancient pagodas, and over 30 pavilions, stone bridges and narrow halls. The Oriental Pearl Tower is an iconic TV tower that offers a stunning view of futuristic skyscrapers and Huangpu River, which you can take amazing boat rides on at night.
