China. In Search of the Real Middle Kingdom

Having lived in China for 12 years and visiting many places, the author of this book often asked herself: “Is this real China—or is it just a tourist place?” For some, “real China” means gray one-story buildings, people in blue suits and caps with a star, and something horribly exotic in restaurants. Many believe that true China must be sought in the village—the quieter, the better. Others can’t imagine China without skyscrapers and technological devices. In reality, real China is everywhere—you just need to open your eyes and give up your own stereotypes. You can find it in the fast-paced rhythm of Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong; and in the smooth, leisurely-looking districts of Tuning and Zhouzhuan, where canals here flow at an unhurried pace; in the bustle of the eastern bazaar in Kashgar; in the piercing winds of Inner Mongolia and Qinghai; in the streets of Lijiang paved with cobblestones; and in the tiled roofs of Pingyao. China is beautiful for its variety—on a single trip you can seemingly visit many countries: with different faces, languages, cuisines, and architecture.

In this book, the author tells about the most popular cities of the Middle Kingdom that you simply must visit. An engaging narrative about sights and history is, of course, complemented by stories about traditions and customs. An important chapter on Chinese cuisine helps make sense of many dishes from different regions of China that are unfamiliar to European stomachs. The book is supplemented with photographs that help you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the place and better understand the Middle Kingdom.