China kept itself to itself for thousands of years, and foreigners still find it difficult to penetrate the inner depths of this fascinating and enigmatic country.

 What makes it attractive as a destination for Western tourists is its fascinating culture and valuable antiquities. Ruins and relics from Neolithic settlements and the dynastic reigns of the mighty emperors are there to behold, along with adventures along the legendary ancient trade routes, such as the Silk Road. The Forbidden Palace, Great Wall, and X'ian's Terracotta Army, are just some of the incredible attractions to be seen in this ancient Eastern empire.

For good reason, the name 'Mongolia' has always evoked visions of the untamed - Genghis Khan, camels wandering the Gobi Desert and wild horses galloping across the steppes. But for a more rounded picture, don't forget cyber-cafes, herders chatting on mobile phones, chic cocktail bars and eco-yurts.

Nights 1-2: Shaanxi Province: Luxury in Xi'an, civilisation, a great hotel and guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors Nights 3-7: Gansu & Ningzia Provinces: 2 nights to explore the stunningly beautiful Mt. Kongtong and its temples Cross the Yellow River into the deserts and semi deserts of the north Visit to the multi-religion Zhongwei Temple complex Discover modern provincial Chinese urban life in the fun city of Yinchuan Nights 8-9: Inner Mongolia: Overland via Hohhot through China's Inner Mongolia Journey through the remarkable industrial heartland of the north, the power house of modern China Nights 10-12: Shanxi Province: 2 nights to explore Datong's Hanging Monastery and the stunning Yungang Caves Explore the Imperial city of Chengde, summer home to the Emperor's family Nights 13-16: Beijing & Surrounds: Visits to the Great Wall at Jinshanling, Simatai and at Mutianyu Guided tour of the hugely impressive Eastern Qing Tombs Guided visits to the Summer Palace & Forbidden City in Beijing