China is a magnificent country with a complex and intricate culture and once you arrive, you'll find it difficult to resist trying out and exploring everything on offer. There's always something new to discover in China and now is the time to start.

Beijing

When you visit China, Beijing is a must-see. You’ll find all the major monuments of this fascinating culture here – the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and The Great Wall.

The Forbidden City is the centuries-old former seat of government at the heart of Beijing. No longer solely the preserve of royalty, concubines, kowtowing officials and eunuchs, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the imperial past. Opposite, you'll find the expansive Tiananmen Square. It resonates with modern political life and a huge portrait of Mao Tse Tung looks down upon the crowds. The Great Wall – a (UNESCO) World Heritage site – is an awe-inspiring spectacle as it snakes its way across China and is easily accessible from Beijing. The sheer size and history of these famous locations can seem overwhelming, which makes experiencing the local side of Beijing just as important.

Try a Hutong tour, which takes you through ancient alley-ways that contain the traditional old courtyard homes where generations of extended Chinese families have lived for many years. The markets of Beijing also offer a glimpse of the more rough-and-tumble side of Beijing. Donghuamen Yeshi night market offers every kind of food you’ve ever dreamed of – and many you haven’t – while the famous Panjiayuan market sells everything imaginable including antiques, silks, furniture and jewellery.

Shanghai

As a major trading port, Shanghai has readily absorbed foreign influences and ideas – it was here the Chinese Communist Party formed in 1921 – and it’s currently undergoing a dramatic transformation. Visit the famous Bund and walk along the waterfront to see the fascinating mixture of 1920s and '30s buildings, beautiful relics of previous booms and the brand new skyscrapers that compete for the tallest space.

If you’re after some bargains on brand names, try the department stores in the newly developed Pudong area. Satisfy your culture cravings with a wander through the beautiful old French concession area, which is full of new galleries, restaurants and clubs.

The beautiful sub-tropical island of Hainan offers a respite from more heavy-duty touring. Hainan has shrugged off its historical role as a place of exile and is now happily welcoming tourists. The capital Haikou is a relaxed place of palm-lined streets and excellent seafood. Or visit the old quarter to see the Portuguese influences of the past and wander down the new promenade in the evenings to enjoy the sea breezes. Many tourists also make the journey to Sanya, famous for its beaches and surf.

Shenzhen

Shopping and Shenzhen are inextricably linked, so come prepared with comfortable shoes and fasten your money belt. Full of the raw vigour of a border town, Shenzhen is a bargain hunter’s dream. It has always had a commercial edge, but these days business is really booming and Hong Kong residents flock here on weekends searching for bargains.

Most shoppers start at Lo Wu Commercial Centre. With over 1500 small shops that are often open till midnight, the Centre could be a lifetime’s occupation. Bargain hard and then relax in one of the many cheap massage parlours or enjoy some dim sum from the more traditional teashops.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a true fusion city. For such a small place (the main island is only 75 sq. km) it offers a huge variety of sights. The centre of the city, focused around Victoria Harbour, offers great up-market shopping. Start at the new IFC Centre, which has all of the major brands and head to Causeway Bay and Mongkok for something more traditional.

Hong Kong’s islands are one of its best-kept secrets and most of them are a mere 30 minutes’ ferry ride from Central. Cheung Chau Island is a traditional island with interesting small temples while Lamma Island is home to foreign ex-pats and long-term Chinese residents. Cars are banned on both islands and their low-rise housing and relaxed atmosphere make them a blessed relief from the pace of the city.

Get some superb views of Hong Kong at The Peak, which is especially wonderful in the evenings. Take the cable car up and follow the path around the top – it takes around an hour and is surprisingly lush and quiet.

Finish off your day by sampling the night-life of Lan Kwai Fong in Central. The largest escalator in the world carries you up through the many bars and restaurants – your only problem will be making your choice of venue and cuisine.

Macau

Macau was the first Western colony on China’s shores. It’s a small place of contrasts: sleepy seaside ambience exists alongside casinos. The beautiful old façade of Sao Paulo Church showcases the long history of Christian life in the Far East and the Macau Museum highlights its colourful past of invaders and traders. Casinos can be found in most of the major hotels, but for quieter pursuits, head to Coloane – a village with charming temples, antique shops and the famous Portuguese custard tarts beloved by the former Governor, Chris Patten.