National Geographic Traveler: China, 2d Ed.

One of the most requested titles in our critically acclaimed Traveler series, this beautiful guide makes the vast enigma of China accessible to every visitor. Continuing the series' winning formula, this new edition combines in-depth, up-to-date descriptions with dazzling photographs, detailed maps, cutaway illustrations of renowned structures, and a wealth of useful travel tips. Organized by cities and areas, the book covers the best sites and attractions throughout the country. Highlights include the capital of Beijing; dynamic Shanghai; the fertile Yangtze region; Guilin and its fabled limestone pillars; the life-size army of terra-cotta warriors in Xi'an; Tibet; the Silk Road; Inner Mongolia; Hong Kong; and Macau—all prefaced by an elaborate introduction to the rich Chinese history and culture.

Wide-ranging sidebars discuss Chinese deities, the Taiping Rebellion, Tibetan Buddhism, and other interesting topics, while guided tours include a bike ride from Tiananmen Square and a cruise along the Yangtze River. An extensive travel planner details practicalities such as where to find the most gracious hotels and the best Peking duck and dim sum.

Veteran travel writer Damian Harper, who has a degree in modern and classical Chinese and an intense interest in Chinese philosophy and poetry, brings authoritative guidance and a strong individual voice to this refreshing new look at a timeless land as it prepares to host the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2010 World Expo.