“China is the theatre of the greatest movement now taking place on the face of the globe.”
China, the third-largest country in the world, has a population of 1.412 billion people as of 2023, making it the most populated nation on Earth. Moreover, its history dates back over 3,500 years, making it the civilisation with the oldest continuous history. With its rich culture, heritage, and stunning natural beauty, China has an air of mysticism and magic that few countries can match.
In recent decades, China has undergone incredible development, making it arguably the most significant player on the global stage in the modern age. To capture the breathtaking majesty of this country, join us at What We Reading as we explore these 7 great China travel books!
The Story Of China – Michael Wood
In his book, The Story of China, English historian Michael Wood expertly weaves together sweeping local tales and his own personal travel stories to explore the oldest living civilisation. With the latest archaeological discoveries at his disposal, Wood takes readers on a captivating journey through China’s remarkable history, spanning from the Qin and Han Dynasties to the stories of Silk Road merchants and Buddhist travellers.
Through the diaries and memoirs of Emperors, warriors, and peasants, readers are transported on an intimate walk through the country and its history. The book vividly captures the essence of China, from the Mongolian Steppes to the bustling streets of Beijing, as it delves into what has held the country together and what the future may hold. Overall, The Story of China is a colourful and compelling account that offers an insightful perspective on one of the world’s most fascinating nations.
Street of Eternal Happiness – Rob Schmitz
Rob Schmitz’s Street of Eternal Happiness offers a unique perspective on China that sets it apart from other travel books. Unlike those that focus on sweeping tours of landmarks like the Great Wall or Hong Kong’s skyscrapers, this book zeroes in on a single street in the heart of Shanghai. Against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis pursuing the new “Chinese Dream,” Schmitz immerses himself in the lives of everyday people striving to build a better future for themselves and their families.
With a blend of humour and heartbreak, the book offers a powerful and eye-opening glimpse into life in a country that finds itself at a crossroads on the global stage. Through the stories of those he encounters on the street, Schmitz paints a vivid picture of modern-day China and the challenges facing its people.
Lost On Planet China – J. Maarten Troost
Lost On Planet China, written by bestselling author Jan Maarten Troost, offers a hilarious and sharply observant adventure across the Far East nation. Troost, known for his charming travelogues across the South Pacific, takes his storytelling to new heights with his tales from China. The book takes readers on a journey from hikes up Tai Shan to visits to Chairman Mao’s grave and even includes humorous anecdotes of being served Cattle Penis with garlic.
With wit and humour, Lost On Planet China provides a captivating and entertaining read that delves into the heartlands of this mesmerizing country. From the bustling streets of Shanghai to the tranquil surroundings of Tibet, the book illuminates how China is a planet unto itself, with its own unique culture, customs, and way of life.
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Country Driving – Peter Hessler
Country Driving is the final instalment in the celebrated China travel trilogy from Peter Hessler, the Beijing correspondent for The New Yorker. After acquiring his Chinese driving license, Hessler embarked on a seven-year epic road trip, covering the length and breadth of the country.
In his trademark style, Hessler examines the people and stories behind China’s remarkable rise to superpower status. One of the book’s highlights is Hessler’s six-year stay in Sancha, a small farming village north of Beijing, where he provides an insightful and intimate look at life in rural China. Hailed as one of the most “thoughtful” Western writers on China, Hessler offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on how the country transformed from a state that erected walls to keep foreigners out to one that builds roads and factories that welcome them in. Country Driving is a fascinating and illuminating read that offers a unique perspective on modern-day China and its people.
With Hessler’s sharp eye for detail and his gift for storytelling, the book provides a captivating account of the country’s journey to becoming a global superpower.
The Shanghai Free Taxi – Frank Langfitt
Blending travel memoir with astute political analysis, NPR correspondent Frank Langfitt’s 2019 book, The Shanghai Free Taxi, is a compelling exploration of China’s growing presence on the world stage. Langfitt’s desire to understand the country from the perspective of its people led him to start a taxi service in Shanghai, offering free rides in exchange for candid conversations about life under the state’s control and the growing inequality across the country.
The result is a thought-provoking and illuminating account of China that offers readers a unique glimpse into the country’s complex realities. Langfitt’s insights into the lives of everyday Chinese citizens are as sharp as they are surprising, and his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom about China makes The Shanghai Free Taxi an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the world’s next great superpower.
Lands Of Lost Borders – Kate Harris
In Lands of Lost Borders, Kate Harris shares her incredible journey of quitting her job as a scientist to embark on a bike ride along the ancient Silk Road. This remarkable travel memoir is a testament to her thirst for exploration, taking readers on a journey of self-discovery as she maps the entire 6,400-kilometre trek from her saddle.
Through her meditative and introspective writing, Harris explores the historical relations between the East and West and how travel can expand our understanding of the world around us. Lands of Lost Borders is a powerful account of one woman’s quest for adventure and a deeper understanding of herself and the world.
High – Erika Fatland
Erika Fatland’s High takes readers on an awe-inspiring journey through the Himalayas, the majestic mountain range that traverses five countries and separates the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. This mystical location brings together ancient Shamanic faiths with major contemporary religions such as Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism, as well as a variety of cultures. Through Fatland’s vivid descriptions of stunning landscapes and forgotten histories, readers will be left breathless with wonder and amazement.
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Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
