Ranked among the globe's most fascinating destinations, China has been enchanting the travelling masses for centuries. China offers visitors the chance to discover one of the epicentres of the Orient, and a getaway in the country is likely to be a life-changing experience for those who have not ventured east. From iconic world wonders to natural spaces that will take your breath away, here are some of the top reasons why a vacation in China will be the most rewarding experience.

With a history that dates back over three thousand years, China is home to one of the world's oldest civilisations. This means that the Chinese Republic is not only among the Four Ancient Civilisations of the world but also boasts a rich cultural heritage that few nations can rival. The Chinese language is among the most original and complex languages on the planet while the country's penchant for martial arts is evident in the centuries-long legacy of Tai Chi and Kung Fu. Some of the other cultural cornerstones in which China supersedes all others include Chinese medicine, calligraphy, traditional Chinese opera and tea culture. So holidaymakers heading to this part of Asia can immerse themselves in so many different cultural pursuits.

When it comes to the heritage sites located in this vast land, it is difficult to even conceive of visiting each and every site as the landmarks are as diverse as they are innumerable. While UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Warriors of Xi'an are the country's most famous monuments and cultural treasures, these are but two locations in a country that's lined with architectural marvels that have survived centuries. The Forbidden City and the Summer Palace are another two highlights that make a trip to China well worth the effort. Whether one is based in Beijing, at the Ascott ICC Guangzhou or any other accommodation in Tianhe district Guangzhou, one's never too far from an iconic landmark or an architectural feat.

One cannot find a more captivating reason to visit China than the fact that it is the homeland of the giant pandas, making a holiday there an experience that will undoubtedly exceed all expectations. Having donated each and every panda bear to zoos around the world, China is the official birthplace of these furry, adorable creatures on the brink of extinction. Pandas, hailed as a Chinese "national treasure," are currently nurtured in conservation centres with the primary goal of breeding and revitalizing the endangered species to eventually restore them to their once-inhabited lands. Specialised Panda Tours are available through countless local tour operators in China and visitors can explore the many conservation hotspots dedicated to protecting these black and white bears during a trip to the country.

There's a reason why Chinese restaurants are often the most popular eateries in any town or city and those who visit China can taste the authentic flavour of classic Chinese dishes in the land where the dishes were first invented. Street food lovers and foodies the world over should head to China just to savour the culinary delights on offer on every street corner. From delicious dim sum and soupy noodles, the choices are truly endless. There are also regional cuisines and local specialities in every major Chinese city.

China is one of the largest countries in the world, and as such, the natural wonders, waterfalls, gorges, rivers and mountains are simply larger and more impressive in this part of Asia. Some of the best natural wonders to explore on a trip to China include the Tiger Leaping Gorge, the Yellow Mountains and the karsts in Guilin while the rainbow lakes in Jiuzhaigou are also simply breathtaking.