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Garden and Waterways

For centuries, Hangzhou has been praised as "Paradise on Earth", celebrated in poetry and paintings for its beauty and a favorite imperial retreat. Even the Venetian traveler, Marco Polo wrote that it was "without doubt the finest and noblest city in the world" when he visited Hangzhou several centuries ago. Hangzhou's tourist sites attract many visitors every year and reflect its long history as a center of culture, learning and religion. The scenic heart of the city is its world-famous West Lake with its unforgettable views. Other attractions include the superb Lingyin Temple, the Six Harmonies Pagoda and the Meijiawu Tea Village.

Then proceed to Suzhou, an ancient cultural city built 2,500 years ago located along the side of Lake Taihu. Many private gardens were built during and after the Song Dynasty making the city famous for its centuries-old classical gardens. Streets and alleys in Suzhou run parallel to centuries-old canals, where small bridges and flowing waters, white walls and dark gray roof tiles match one another in tranquil elegance. The city of Suzhou gives out a graceful and sweet charm, even the Suzhou girls are considered to be the gentlest throughout the country.

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When to go

China has a great diversity of climates. From bitterly cold winters to dry hot summers in the North and Semi-tropical summers and mild winters in the South. March to May and September to early November are the best times to visit China.

 

Flying time

London to Beijing is approximately 10 hours whilst to Shanghai and Hong Kong approximately 12 hours with direct flights operated by British Airways, Air China, Virgin Atlantic and Cathay Pacific Airways


Time difference

GMT+8. Despite the vast size of the country, Beijing time is standard throughout China.

 

Passport & Visa

Visa Required?
British Yes
USA  Yes
Other EU Yes


Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months for a single entry, 12 months for a double entry or six month multiple entry and 18 months for a 12 month multiple entry visa.

 

Health requirements

Diphtheria Yes
Hepatitis A Yes
Malaria  Sometimes
Tetanus Yes
Typhoid Yes
Yellow Fever No*

 

Inoculation regulations can change at short notice. Please take medical advice in the case of doubt. Where 'Sometimes' appears in the table above, precautions may be required depending on the season and region visited.