Hong Kong to Beijing - 2/3 weeks in China??

Hello,

I will be spending extensive time in SE Asia (Bali, Borneo, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam) and eventually making my way to Hong Kong. I would like to see the "heart of China" for about 2 weeks before making my way to Beijing (versus just flying Hong Kong to Beijing) before flying onward to Japan.

What cities and sites do you recommend I see. I know for sure that I want to see Guilin and the River Li as well as Xi'an. What are other cities/towns/parks/sites you recommend I visit as I travel northward. I am open for flying for longer routes. Any advise and route would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks again!

Rob

I would recommend a stop in Shanghai for a couple of days, and also Hangzhou which takes around 1.5 hours on the fast train from Shanghai. Although Shanghai is very westernised in many ways, I still found it really interesting and there is lots to do. The main attraction in Hangzhou is the beautiful lake and you could easily spend a couple of days exploring the lake area. we hired bikes for one day which was a nice way to get around.

What about Tibet? Haha, it is still a mystery to me.
Personally I prefer Shaoxing, a rather different city in Zhejiang Province. I am fond of its waterside scenery and distinctive folk custom.

[ Edit: Edited on Nov 17, 2008, at 11:44 PM by Zoe-China ]

Do allow plenty of time for Beijing as there is a fair bit to see there. The country is big so fly long distances.