China is an amazing place. First settled thousands of years ago it has developed a rich culture filled with creativity colour and excitement. For hundreds of years China cut itself off from the rest of the world becoming a land of mystery and wonder as the government changed from royal emperors to Communist rule. Today China is open to the world and this nation of more than a billion people has become one of the largest economies and an important player in world politics. Travel to the other side of the world and discover this country's magical traditions splendid palaces and changing society as you visit the land of China.