In China, citizens enjoy freedom of religious belief, and all normal religious activities are protected by the Constitution. The Buddhist, Islamic, Catholic, Protestant and Taoist organizations have been established at national and local levels, independently dealing with their own religious affairs. The religious groups and affairs in China are not subject to the direction of foreign powers.

April, May, September and October are the peak tourist months at China’s most popular destinations when the weather is the most comfortable. Prices drop a bit in the shoulder season, which runs from November through March and from June through August. However, the winter months are peak season for trips to China’s Hainan Island and to the Northeast Harbin for its world-famous ice-lantern festival.  This months are also packed with New Year holidays, Chinese Spring Festival and other national or local happy fairs.  Summer months are great time to explore China’s Far East-Manchuria.

The Chinese terms in this book have been given both in characters and in pinyin; the pronunciation guide below is your first step to making yourself comprehensible. Don't get overly paramoid about your tones;with the help of context,intelligent listeners should be able to work out what you are trying to say.If you're just uttering a single word,however,for example a place name-without a context-you need to hit exactly the right tone,otherwise don't be surprised if nobody understands you.