5 reasons why Japan and China should be your next travel destination
A holiday to China and Japan is like no other, both countries date back over 3,000 years and are steeped in age old traditions, culture and fascinating history.
From the bustling metropolises of Shanghai and Tokyo, to ancient temples and majestic castles, tranquil zen gardens, roly poly pandas and world-famous snow monkeys, there is so much to see and do. Scroll through the gallery to see five reasons why Japan and China should be your next travel destinations.
1. Walk along the Great Wall of China
A visit to China would not be complete without visiting the Great Wall. This masterpiece in construction will amaze you regardless of your expectations.
Stretching over 21,000km from the Yellow Sea to the Gobi Desert, the Great Wall took an estimated 20 years to build during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
Taking a walk along this magnificent structure is not only the best way to appreciate it, but also a great way to take in the incredible scenery and breathtaking views.
Be sure to get there early to avoid the crowds and make the most of the best light for capturing those memorable photos.
2. Explore Kyoto
If you’re looking for Japan’s spiritual heart, look no further than Kyoto. Japan’s capital for a millennium, Kyoto was the heart of art, culture, philosophy and religion. Here you’ll find 2,000 temples and shrines including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Some of the best-known cultural arts were born in Kyoto – the tea ceremony, Kabuki theatre and geisha who you will find scurrying along the street to their evening appointments.
Kyoto is the idyllic setting to relax in tranquil zen gardens, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, try your hand at the art of origami or traditional calligraphy.
Just outside Kyoto is the Fushimi Inari Shrine, dedicated to the god of rice and sake (Inari), it features 5,000 vibrant orange tori gates that wind up the hill, it is one of the most impressive sites in Kyoto.
Thirty minutes from Kyoto is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the most photographed sights in Japan. The lush bamboo stretches as high as the eye can see while sunlight filters through the gaps making for some stunning photos. Walk along the bamboo lined path and enjoy the serenity of the forest.
3. Gaze in awe at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, China
Discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well, the Terracotta Warriors are synonymous with China, and just like the Great Wall, is one of the world’s most iconic archaeological finds.
Constructed on the order of China’s First Emperor Qin Shi Huang who wanted an army to protect him in the afterlife, the Terracotta Warriors took 720,00 builders to construct over 40 years.
Divided over three pits, pit one is the most impressive as it features 6,000 warriors (2,000 are on display) as well as horses, all facing east and ready for battle.
The Terracotta Warriors continues to be a sight that intrigues any visitor to this day, standing in their original formation as they did when they were uncovered by the farmers in 1974.
4. Marvel at Japan’s colourful autumn leaves
From September through to November, Japan is a mosaic of colour with striking shades of red, yellow and orange as the country changes colour for its autumn leaves season.
Starting in Tokyo and travelling down towards Kyoto and its surrounds, Japan’s autumn leaves are truly a magnificent sight.
Temple gardens and shrine grounds become a stunning picture of autumn colours as the maple and gingko trees change colour, making it one of the most photogenic times to visit Japan.
During autumn leaf season you can enjoy maple leaf shaped cakes and maple leaf shaped tempura
5. Watch roly poly giant pandas play
China’s celebrated bears are not only one of the world’s most loved species, they are also one of the world’s most endangered, which may be because of their disinterest in breeding.
Located in Chengdu is the famous Panda Conservation Centre which mimics the natural habitat of giant pandas with the aim to encourage breeding. Since opening in 1987, the centre has successfully bred over 170 giant pandas.
By visiting the centre, you will not only see these shy enigmatic creatures but also learn about the breeding program and how what the centre is doing to increase their numbers.
The giant pandas are most active in the morning when its feeding time, so arrive early so that you maximise your time watching these national treasures play.
This is sponsored content brought to you in partnership with Wendy Wu Tours.