The Less Traveled Roads in China

China, the third largest country in the world. A vast country of lofty mountains, lush landscapes and ancient history. It is a country with cities of old dating back over 5,000 years as well as cities that hold the latest technology. In truth, China is a country where world travelers visit often. In 2008 alone, China had 24.33 million international tourists.

It would take years to travel across China and see everything. In fact, it can take over a week to see just one city or area. But the road less traveled in China is a great way to avoid all the crowds and tourist chaos. In honesty, some of China’s less traveled roads lead to numerous adventures, some amazing history, and vivid landscapes.

The best time to visit the back roads and less traveled roads in China is generally in the spring. March through May or in the fall, September to early November are the ideal times of year. On the contrary, you want to avoid touring during major holidays. Many people do not realize that celebrations can last up to a week. For example, Spring festival (Chinese New Year) is the most important holiday in China which starts in late January or early February. The Chinese New Year is a lunar holiday and the beginning day of the festival changes with the cycles of the moon. National Day is celebrated on October first and usually lasts 7 days. The national Labor Day holiday is held on May 1st lasting a week or more. The Moon Festival is the harvest festival that is observed on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. And the Dragon Boat festival is recognized on the fifth lunar month.

While you take the road less traveled in China, visit Dragon Bone Hill where one of the first specimens of Homo erectus was discovered. The Peking Man is estimated to be 300,000 to 550,000 years old. Dragon Bone Hill is located about 31 miles southwest of Beijing. It is surrounded by a chain of mountains and grassy hills. This magnificent area is rich in limestone and mineral deposits attracting geologists from all over the world.

Dragon Bone Hill also has a fine specimen of prehistoric bones of the Pachycrocuta. The Pachycrocuta is a gigantic prehistoric hyena. In its time, the hyena stood around 100 cm (39 in) at the shoulder and weighed approximately 190 kg (420 lb). To human knowledge, it is the largest hyena that ever lived.

During your travels in China it is recommended to visit one of the most amazing coastal cities named Xiamen; also known as Amoy. Xiamen is located southeast of Frujian province. It has a spectacular view of the Taiwan Strait. In fact, recently it was named China’s 2^nd most suitable place for living.

Xiamen Underwater Sea World

Your China travels at the Underwater Sea World takes you through a long glass underwater world that has over 10,000 aquatic creatures including baby sharks, turtles, starfish and coral gardens. The Xiamen Underwater Sea World is located on Longtou Road close to the bay.

Zhongshan Park

Zhongshan Park is a lush tropical park filled with dainty ferns, colorful wildflowers, numerous palm trees and quiet ponds. You can also hike ancient footpaths that lead to inspiring temples. The park is tucked away about 125 yards east of Park East Road.

Xiamen Beach

Xiamen Beach has miles of beach for swimming, bike riding, sunbathing, shopping for souvenirs, and exploring new food. It is located southeast from downtown.

Wanshi (Ten Thousand Stone) Botanical Garden

A less traveled road in China is in Xiamen at the Wanshi Botanical Gardens. Wanshi is not only amazing but awe-inspiring. There are over 4,000 species of flora in these glorious botanical gardens that gracefully hold breathtaking orchids, dense bamboo trees, and aromatic eucalyptus. As well, because of the thousands of types of plants it has become a major research center. The gardens are located on the north Lion Hill of southeast Xiamen urban district.

Hulishan Fortress

Internationally recognized as a cultural and historical site, built in 1894. Filled with ancient military weapons, various statues, and armaments. The fortress is made out of camphor tree sap, glutinous rice, liquid brown sugar, clay, and sand.

Jimei School Village

A blend of Chinese and western architecture. Sitting on the lake is Jimei High School, known as the world’s most beautiful high school. With its massive Gothic structures and park, a spectacular sight. Located 10 minutes north of Xiamen.

Gulangyu Island

Glorious China travel on Gulangyu Island is definitely a road less traveled: A small island just a 5 minute ferry ride from Xiamen. Filled with cobblestone streets and Bavarian patios. A tranquil island that prohibits the use of cars. While you are there, visit Koxinga Memorial Hall and Sunlight Rock.

Nanpuoto Temple

A Tang dynasty ( 618-907 AD) temple with ivory sculptures, golden Buddha’s, and bronze bells. There is a vegetarian restaurant, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of Great Mercy, and the Treasured Hall of Great Majesty. The temple is surrounded by the sea on the southeast side of Xiamen.

Eternal City, the old capital of China and one of the oldest cities in Chinese history. Enclosed by the City Wall of Xi’an, built in the 14^th century.

One might consider seeing the Terracotta Warriors and horses, funerary art buried with the First Emperor of Qin Shi Huang, in 210-209 BCE. There are over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses.

Other road less traveled areas to see in Xian are

• Bell and Drum Tower
• Artifacts in Shaanxi History Museuam
• Stonework inscriptions of Stele Forest
• The Small and Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
• And the hundreds of temples in various areas