MCLA, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams, MA.

Beijing is the political and cultural center of the most populated country in the world. Here the heritage of traditional China is celebrated alongside the achievements of modern China. We will ascend the Great Wall of China, the longest man-made object in the world. This magnificent edifice spans five provinces and was built to protect the country from foreign invasion and influences. Then we will tour the Forbidden City, residence of the Ming and Qing emperors for more than 500 years, walk through Tian An Men Square, the scene of many mass celebrations and demonstrations. We will also visit the tranquil Valley of the Ming Tombs----burial grounds for the 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty, and see the breathtaking imperial residence of Summer Palace(see picture) and Temple of Heaven. Other activities include visiting the Temple of Confucius, Yonghe Lama Temple, the bustling shopping districts of Beijing, and enjoy the exquisite Beijing Opera.

China's ancient capital, once the powerful center of the Tang dynasty and the beginning of the silk trade. Rich in cultural and art history, this area is a pivotal site connected to the origins of Chinese civilization. Xian is home to first emperor Qin's Terra-Cotta Army---- more than 6,000 life-size terra-cotta warriors and horses, one of the major wonders of the world (see picture). We will visit the Shaanxi History Museum, one of the very best in China, explore the unique Muslim section of town, and stroll on Xian's spectacular city wall, one of the best examples of such a wall in China.

Known as the “Paris of the East”, Shanghai today is a major commercial, financial and cultural hub of China. This beautiful city offers lots of sightseeing. We will view the harbor from Huangpu park and visit the Jade Buddha Temple featuring two huge Buddha statues carved out of a single piece of white jade. We can take a morning sight-seeing of old Shanghai with its quaint central lanes and the classic Ming Dynasty Yu Garden. We will enjoy a tour at the stunning Shanghai Museum of Art, one of the best in the world on China's visual arts, and stroll along the Nanjing Road and the Bund, Shanghai's waterfront and a fascinating mix of culture and cosmopolitanism.

This city in Hebei province is one-hour by train from Beijing. Our main purpose here is to visit Hebei University, professor Huang's alma mater. Through talking to faculty and students, and visiting classes, we can learn about China’s higher education and the aspirations of Chinese Students. Hebei University and MCLA have established an exchange relationship. You will meet MCLA alumni who are teaching English at Hebei University. There are also historical and cultural sites to visit, including the Qing dynasty provincial governor’s court, the best preserved one in the country. In Baoding we will get off the beaten path and talk to Chinese people. You will gain a first-hand experience of China’s countryside.