We visited China in April 2004. It was a hugely enjoyable trip. We started off in Hong Kong, flew to Xi'an, by overnight train to Beijing and then flew home. The China does things on a huge scale, the people are friendly and the service is excellent.
Peach trees grow in many areas, these are the ornamental variety as they are covered in blossom. Summer Palace, Beijing.
Tower of Cloud Retaining Eaves, Summer Palace, Beijing
Beijing Opera, Beijing. We were so lucky to have seats in the centre of the front row. We could literally lean forward and touch the stage!