A panda feasts on bamboo in the Wolong Nature Reserve

Wild nature is not something the Chinese generally revere, but some reserves do exist around the country and none has been more painstakingly set up than the Wolong Nature Reserve.

Here the quirky giant panda has been assured survival amid the highland valleys and steep mountains west of Chengdu in central southern China.

Cycling in China's cities will give you an unforgettable insight into daily life

You'll never see traffic chaos dealt with more politely, without the faintest hint of road rage, than on the streets of China's major cities. And the most immediate way to experience it, is by renting a bike.

Skewered scorpions prepare for deep-frying in Beijing's night market

Chinese cuisine may have outposts all over the world, but in reality once you get to China you'll realise that much of it - the spiciness of the food, the chaos and noise, the no-frills approach, the brazenness with which live ingredients are paraded - are all toned down abroad.