Rural China and The Great Wall of China

In China's capital, Mark and Julie hop on a pedicab to take a look at life in the alleys of the old city and pay a visit to modern Tienamen Square. Just outside Beijing, the country's most enduring symbol, The Great Wall of China tumbles over the horizon.

The towering limestone pinnacles of Southern China have inspired artists for centuries. The peaks hide numerous caves, some that have been turned into Disneyland-like attractions, while others offer hiking and pristine views of the patchwork countryside.

The Li River makes a peaceful, melodic trip past water buffalo lingering in the cool current and families working in verdant rice fields. Mark & Julie visit villages hidden in the riverbanks, cycle through the pristine countryside, and discover the backpacker's mecca of Yangshou, where they meet fishermen with an ingenious method of doing their job.

TIPS for TRAVELERS to SOUTHERN CHINA

A trip to Beijing must include a visit to the Great Wall of China, the question is, which part of The Wall?

This incredible structure spans over 4,000 miles and includes sections that have undergone massive restoration, and others where the the stones have been allowed to crumble into the earth, leaving "the Wall" indistinguishable. Around Beijing there are several different sections of the wall open to travelers...

"Badaling", is easy to get to and therefore the most visited. To get away from the crowds, head to "Simatai", but be prepared for some steeper climbs. To really get off the beaten path, set out for the adventurous, unrefurbished sections, Huanghuacheng & Jiankou - there is also a lake and reservoir here - nice for summer months and a day of hiking.

See also the Journey Down the Yangtze River, China episode.

Pick up the new Lonely Planet Guide to Southern China.

See also Food and Shelter in Rural China
See also Visit Yangshou
See also City of Ghosts, China

For a fabulous Virtual tour of the Great Wall of China, see Ron Gluckman's The China Guide