The exhibit "Terra Cotta Warriors: Guardians of China's First Emperor" just opened at National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C., and Traveler staffer Meg Weaver got a sneak peak at the legendary warriors. The exhibit includes over a dozen of the warriors, as well as 100 other objects like decorative jade pieces, bronze weapons, coins, and much more. To read Meg's full review of the exhibit.


PHOTO GALLERY

2. See Historic Shanghai

Offering old culture in the midst of shimmering modernity, the Buddhist Jing'an Temple has stood on West Nanjing Road since the 13th century. Still relevant to locals and fascinating to visitors, the temple draws a lively mix of devotees and tourists to its expansive courtyard. For more Shanghai photos from Justin Guariglia.


INSIDERS MAPS

3. Explore the Forbidden City

In Beijing's historic city center, it is against the law to erect anything higher than three stories. The rule harks back to imperial times, when no structure was permitted to be taller than the Drum Tower, whose drums marked the hours of the emperor's day. Check out our interactive Insiders Map of the Forbidden City.


SHOPPING GUIDE

4. The Art of Chinese Silk

Silk-making traces its roots to prehistoric China. For many centuries the Chinese closely guarded the secrets of their laborious craft. As China's main currency, silk was used to pay taxes, fines, and wages, and even to buy public office. Silk ceremonies played an important role in imperial culture. A host of Buddhist deities associated with silk and silk-making received offerings at special altars reserved for them. The Silk Road—a well-trodden system of ancient trade routes, many over treacherous terrain—brought silk to Westerners hungry for these exotic luxuries. Many observers consider silk to be one of China's greatest contributions to world civilization. To learn more, check out Laura Morelli's Genuine Article on the Ancient Art of Chinese Silk.


PLACES OF A LIFETIME

5. Visit Modern Hong Kong

"A frantic, hurly-burly mixture of capitalism and exoticism, Hong Kong has been called the 'most thrilling city on the planet,'" writes Jan Morris in our Places of a Lifetime guide to this Chinese metropolis. Traveler's online guide is filled with information on the best places to stay, eat, and see, and includes recipes, music, and more. For the complete guide,