Traveling through China with kids in tow is not what many would have envisioned for their next family escape. You probably have heard that the place is too crowded... the pollution un-sufferable... and all that culture and history is just "too boring" for the little ones.

With a population of 1.5 billion people, give or take a few million, it is a bit more crowded than we are used to, and air quality is a real problem, but with a little planning and an open mind, China could be indeed, a great adventure destination for the entire family. And yes, it is possible to combine 5,000 years of history with a little fun...

Where to Go?
There is a lot more to traveling to China than just seeing the Great Wall. This is such a vast land, it is a good idea to plan your itinerary with map in hand and consider what the different destinations have to offer in terms of your interests and activities to keep the children involved and out of trouble.
Here are some suggestions to help you get started:

Beijing, the Capital Beijing is a modern, energetic and dynamic metropolis which once saw the rise and fall of many imperial dynasties. The site of the 2008 Summer Olympics is home to China's most famous historical sites such as the Forbidden City and Tian'anmen Square. To make the most out of your sightseeing try to keep a relaxed pace and incorporate activities to keep the kids entertained. The children will appreciate taking a break from temples, palaces and mausoleums to fly a kite, hire a row boat and paddle in one of the many lakes, ride rickshaws in the ancient alleyways or just simply slow down to bargain at the markets and check out some exotic foods. Beijing is also the starting point for your Great Wall expedition. But don't just climb the Great Wall... take time to explore the watchtowers, bring a picnic, then toboggan down...

Xian The army of Terracotta Warriors discovered by farmers in 1974 is what put Xian in the China tourist map. This collection of more than 8,000 life-size statues, all with unique features, is really an archeological marvel that the children will enjoy checking out. Besides the Terracotta Army, Xian has much to offer. The Xian City Wall is probably the best preserved city wall in China, so hire some bikes and zip around the entire perimeter. Stop now and then and watch as Chinese everyday life unfolds down below.

Shanghai Shanghai does not have the historical treasures that Beijing has to offer, or the remarkable archaeological discoveries of Xian, but it is here that the sharp contrasts of an ancient culture trying to cope with progress are more evident. As the nation's business and financial center, its futuristic skyline blends in with a touch of the old and the traditional in the many courtyards and gardens intermingled in the Old Town. Sail along the Huangpu River, where freighters cruise along barges, junks and sampans. And kids don't want to miss the sleepy water villages... or the fastest trains in the world...

Regardless of where you choose to go, there are many fun activities you can incorporate in your sightseeing with the children: cooking lessons, tai chi or kung fu, maybe some calligraphy or Chinese painting... the possibilities are really endless.

Plan your trip, pack the kids and have a great time in China.