This new edition of the guide has been comprehensively overhauled and expanded from 412 to 480 pages, with an all-new guide to the Best of China, a new Introduction, new chapters on the economy and modern society, six new photo essays, a re-organized Places section and expanded listings including over twice as many restaurants as the previous edition. The first part of the book details China's long history and fascinating culture. The Places section contains descriptive region-by-region accounts, with the Travel Tips section providing full listings and all the practical information you'll need. New for this edition, Chinese characters have been included for towns, cities, significant sights and restaurants, and also appear on the maps.