Beijing
Cadogan's new and comprehensive guide to China's capital takes you not only round the imposing remnants of imperial grandeur, but into warrens of ancient housing, to remote temples in leafy countryside, and to the bustling markets and glittering nightlife of the new economy. Dozens of day trips take you out of the capital to multiple Great Wall sites, elaborate tomb complexes and bizarre museums, and further afield to the mountain and seaside playgrounds of the emperors and their modern successors. This guide is immensely practical and detailed with coverage of sights, restaurants, hotels, shopping and transport options, many yet to be discovered by other guides. There are Chinese characters throughout that help you find your own way around, and order yourself the best of Chinese cooking from street snacks to banquets. There is a thoroughly researched accommodation guide that gives both comprehensive budget listings and the best of the middle and luxury markets. (5 3/4 x 8 1/4, 432 pages, maps, charts)