July, 2008

Living day to day we sometimes forget that China extends well beyond the dusty Beijing doorstep. It is a land with a little bit of everything – lush forests, majestic mountains, spacious plateaus, sandy beaches, vast deserts, open grasslands, ancient rivers and lakes – and each terrain plays host to different cultures, cuisines, languages and ways of life.

As one of the world’s oldest and longest-lasting civilizations, the amount of knowledge and history to learn from China or the number of places to see is endless. And while it is impossible to list all that are worthy, tbjkids has nonetheless narrowed down 25 cities and sites that families should visit before leaving China. Some are famous for natural landscapes, some carry historical or cultural legacies, some are modern cosmopolitan cities, while others are empty lands dotted only by the simplest and most rural of villages. Regardless, all offer valuable and unforgettable experiences that a family can cherish for a lifetime.

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Xi'An
An Ancient Imperial Capital

As the ancient capital of 13 Chinese dynasties, Xi’an is a city rich with history, and with numerous attractions that draw tourists, it is easy to navigate with a family. The thousands-strong Terracotta Army is a major tourist draw, and a sight sure to enthrall adults and children alike (the largest pit holds around 6,000 warriors and horses). But the city also boasts early imperial tombs, a thriving Muslim Quarter and a nearby Neolithic village, in addition to the majestic cliffs of Huashan Mountain.

The Travelers: Americans Jim and Sue Serstad, and their three children: Garrett (11), Jenna (10) and Ian (5).

Where to Stay: Jim and Sue highly recommend the four-star Bell Tower Hotel (29 8760 0000). Their room overlooked the Bell Tower – the exact geographical center of Xi’an. Markets, shops, the fascinating Muslim quarter and the ancient city walls were all within walking distance.

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Xiahe
Prayer Wheels and Pilgrimage Paths

If the trip to Tibet seems impossible, Xiahe offers a more easily accessible Tibetan experience. Xiahe, a primarily Tibetan monastery town (the second most significant after Lhasa), attracts a good number of tourists but still maintains an authentic monastery ambiance. Revel in the vibrant colors of monks‘ robes against hilly green landscapes. Visit the spectacular Labrang Monastery and see how the monks really live. Long and challenging hikes await travelers with older children. Hungry families can sample authentic Tibetan cuisine and roam the Sangke Prairie, named for the sangke flowers that blanket the grounds. Visit the local markets selling different Tibetan handicrafts to people of all ages.

The Travelers: Phil Calvert and Chantal Meagher, with Jessye Calvert (8), Fabienne Calvert Filteau (23) and Julie Foisy (29).

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Suzhou
Ancient Canals and Classical Gardens

Often referred to as the Venice of the East, Suzhou is situated in the fertile Yangzi basin and boasts some of the most famous classical Chinese gardens, many of which are on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Ancient statues and stone engravings can be found in most garden complexes, making a garden meander all the more interesting. Take a relaxing boat trip down the city’s inner canals (where no motorized transport is allowed) or even along the Grand Canal, which links Suzhou to the other water towns in the region. There are also several museums and temples that may entice older kids; one of the best in the city, the Silk Museum offers a bilingual exhibit on the city’s 4,000-year-old silk industry. True silk fiends should consider visiting in September, when the Suzhou Silk Festival takes place.

Shaolin Temple
The Birthplace of Kung Fu

Any martial arts aficionado has heard of the Shaolin Temple, and though it does tend to attract crowds of tourists, this home of gongfu is well worth visiting. Choreographed wushu performances at surrounding schools are entertaining for martial arts enthusiasts and general spectators alike. Frequent outside visitors also means Shaolin Temple is an easy choice when it comes to vacation destinations for families. Don’t be surprised if your kids ask for kung fu lessons after your trip!

The Travelers: American couple Jim and Janie Butler, and their sons John (10) and Matthew (9).

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Shanhaiguan
Where the Great Wall Meets the Sea

For those interested in seeing where the mountains meet the sea, Shanhaiguan is the place to go. This city was once a Ming dynasty stronghold, and its garrison-like remains are still evident today. China’s Great Wall has captivated visitors for centuries, and the sections in Shanhaiguan are striking – even for those who have hiked Badaling. The Great Wall Museum also deserves a visit. If the children are up for it, leave the crowds behind and trek across the less preserved sections of the wall or to the Qixian Monastery.