China Through The Lens

Itinerary

Days 1-3 Hong Kong

Arrive early to watch the sun rise over one of the most impressive skylines in the world. Then take to the streets to see the buildings that form it. From the shiny Central skyscrapers to charming colonial buildings - legacy of 100 years of British rule - this city is a photographer's dream.

Days 4-5 Yangshuo

Take an overnight train into the Middle Kingdom. Surrounded by dramatic limestone karst mountains, Yangshuo is a great place to wander about practising landscape photography. A leisurely boat trip downriver allows a close-up look at these wonderful natural formations. Later, cycle back into town - you can be sure that every turn in the road here leads to another picture-postcard location.

Days 6-7 Longji Rice Terraces

Catch an early bus to the steep rice terraces of the Longji Valley. Green in spring, golden at harvest-time, they make for magnificent viewing from high up in the hills. Chat to the villagers here, and admire their resplendent, hand-woven attire.

Days 8-9 Guizhou

Meet the Miao minority, and be captivated by their exquisite jewellery and colourful embroidered dress. Learn their customs and culture and spend the next few days exploring and photographing the scenic surrounds.

Days 10-12 Shanghai/Xitang

Cosmopolitan Shanghai is a stunning showcase of old and new - the elegant buildings along the Bund lend an old-world charm, while the skyscrapers of Pudong on the other side of the river symbolise the country's progress. It's a dramatic city-scape to practice your photography in. Lose yourself in the corridors of the Shanghai Museum before escaping the hustle and bustle with a day trip to Xitang, a peaceful riverside town full of ancient buildings and canals.

Days 13-15 Beijing

Travel to the capital for a walk along the iconic Great Wall, a remarkable 6,000 km long feat of engineering, constructed to keep out the 'barbarians' of the north. Expansive Tiananmen Square and the glorious Forbidden City are also on the agenda, offering incredibkle photographic opportunities.