Shanghai is China's largest, most modern city. Enjoy the contrasts of the modern city of PuDong, on the east side of the Pu River, with traditional gardens such as YuYuan and the Red Mansion compound east of the city. The artist village of Zhouzhuang, situated along narrow canals is a delightful spot for exploring, shopping and is one of the best photo opportunites in the area. Shuzhou, famed for its traditional gardens provides yet another experience of Ming and Qing architecture. Hangzhou, along with Suzhou, is known as one of China's most beautiful cities.
West Lake is surrounded by modern city on the east and mountains in the west.
In those mountains, the famed LingYin Temple resides. This temple, with it's 64' camphor wood statue of the Great Buddha, was spared during the Cultural Revolution by Zhou En-Lai, himself. A trip down the Li River through that mystical landscape is an experience not to be missed. Xi'an was an ancient capital and is the home of the Qin and Tang Dynasties. Shi Huang inspiress awe in all who view it.