The Less Traveled Roads of China

China, the third largest country in the world. A vast country of lofty mountains, lush landscapes, and ancient history. A country with cities of old dating back over 5,000 years and cities that hold the latest technology. It is a country where world travelers visit often. In 2008 alone, China had 24.33 million international tourists.

It would take years to travel across China. It can take over a week to see one city or area. But you can get off the well traveled path and avoid the crowds and chaos. Some of China’s less traveled roads lead to many adventures, some amazing history, and vivid landscapes.

The best time to travel China is generally is in the spring, March through May or in the fall, September to early November. You want to avoid touring during major holidays, celebrations can last up to a week. Spring festival (Chinese New Year) is the most important holiday in China which starts in late January or early February. The Chinese New year is a lunar holiday and the beginning day of the festival changes with the cycles of the moon. National Day is celebrated on October first and usually lasts 7 days. The national Labor Day holiday is held on May 1st lasting a week. Moon Festival is the harvest festival that is observed on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. And the Dragon Boat festival is recognized on the fifth lunar month.

While you travel China, visit Dragon Bone Hill where one of the first specimens of Homo erectus was found. The Peking Man is estimated to be 300,000 to 550,000 years old. Located about 31 miles southwest of Beijing, surrounded by a chain of mountains and grassy hills. An area rich in limestone and mineral deposits attracting geologist s from around the world.

Dragon Bone also has a fine specimen of prehistoric bones of the Pachycrocuta; a gigantic prehistoric hyena. This hyena stood around 100 cm (39 in) at the shoulder and weighed approximately 190 kg (420 lb). To human knowledge, it is the largest hyena that ever lived.

During your China travels vist one of the most amazing coastal cities named Xiamen; also known as Amoy. Located southeast of Frujian province, a spectacular view of the Taiwan Strait. Recently it was named China’s 2^nd most suitable place for living.

Xiamen Underwater Sea World

Your China travels at the Underwater Sea World takes you through a long glass underwater world that has over 10,000 aquatic creatures including baby sharks, turtles, starfish, and coral gardens. Located on Longtou Road close to the bay.

Zhongshan Park

A lush tropical park filled with ferns, wildflowers, palm trees, and ponds. Explore footpaths that lead to inspiring temples. The park is tucked away about 125 yards east of Park East Road.

Xiamen Beach

Miles of beach for swimming, bike riding, sunbathing, shopping for souvenirs, and food. Located southeast from downtown.

Wanshi (Ten Thousand Stone) Botanical Garden

One of the less traveled roads of China in Xiamen is Wanshi Botanical Gardens. Wanshi is not only amazing but awe-inspiring. There are over 4,000 species of flora in these glorious botanical  gardens that gracefully hold breathtaking orchids, dense bamboo trees, and aromatic eucalyptus. As well, because of the thousands of  types of plants it has become a major research center. The gardens are located on the north Lion Hill of southeast Xiamen urban district.

Hulishan Fortress

Internationally recognized as a cultural and historical site, built in 1894. Filled with ancient military weapons, various statues, and armaments. The fortress is made out of camphor tree sap, glutinous rice, liquid brown sugar, clay, and sand.

Jimei School Village

A blend of Chinese and western architecture. Sitting on the lake is Jimei High School, known as the world’s most beautiful high school. With its massive Gothic structures and park, a spectacular sight. Located 10 minutes north of Xiamen.

Gulangyu Island

Glorious China travel on Gulangyu Island: A small island just a 5 minute ferry ride from Xiamen. Filled with cobblestone streets and Bavarian patios. A tranquil island that prohibits the use of cars. While you are there, visit Koxinga Memorial Hall and Sunlight Rock.

Nanpuoto Temple

A Tang dynasty ( 618-907 AD) temple with ivory sculptures, golden Buddha’s, and bronze bells. There is a vegetarian restaurant, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of Great Mercy, and the Treasured Hall of Great Majesty. The temple is surrounded by the sea on the southeast side of Xiamen.

Eternal City, the old capital of China and one of the oldest cities in Chinese history. Enclosed by the City Wall of Xi’an, built in the 14^th century. One might consider seeing the Terracotta Warriors and horses, funerary art buried with the First Emperor of Qin Shi Huang, in 210-209 BCE. There are over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses.

Other sites to see in Xian are the Bell and Drum Tower, the Small and Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, stonework inscriptions of Stele Forest, artifacts in Shaanxi History Museuam, or the hundreds of temples.