China 1996 (Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Wuxi, Qingdao & Beijing)

I was lucky enough to go on a trip to China on a Student Ambassador Program during the summer of 1996. We were treated to a tour of Eastern China, starting in Shanghai and ending in Beijing. We rode ships, airplanes, trains, buses, and bicycle-carts while traveling up and down the three-week introduction to the culture, language, history, sights, and people of China. Among some of the more interesting things that we were able to experience was meeting with groups of students at schools around the country, visiting the Great Wall, a homestay in a farming village, an overnight train ride, and many visits to various Taoist and Buddhist temples. Of course, we also saw all of the usual touristy spots in Shanghai and Beijing (Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven etc.). As you'll see, I took a LOT of pictures (and the ones I have here are just the better half or so of the whole lot!).

If you would like to read an interesting account of my homestay experience while I was there (in Shijiajiang village), visit here. Keep in mind that it was written by me many, many years ago. Don't laugh.