Home to one-quarter of the world"s population and heir to the richest civilization in history, China continues to exert a magnetic attraction on visitors. Archeological treasures, architectural masterpieces, stunning natural beauty and the inexhaustible variety of its people make any visit to China an unforgettable experience. China has so many diverse regions that visitors often have difficulty in knowing where to begin. This guide helps narrow the options. As well as detailed descriptions of the major cities and their environs, a selection of suggested expeditions for the more adventurous includes all the major tourist sites, the more remote provinces and several climbable mountains. Special sections examine such topics as Chinese opera, calligraphy and painting and opportunities for seeing unique wildlife. 72 color photos, 11 maps.