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In the 1920s, archeologists removed from a cave at Zhoukoudian some 40-odd fossilized bones and primitive implements, which they identified as the prehistoric remains of Peking Man. It was thought that this exciting discovery provided the much sought-after link between Neanderthals and modern humans. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the area is geared toward specialists, although the small museum has an interesting collection of tools, and bone fragments. Peking Man himself is not here – his remains mysteriously disappeared during World War II.

Luxurious and recently renovated rooms have large plasma TVs; marble bathrooms also have a small screen. Two terrific restaurants (Huang Ting and Jing), a luxury mall, excellent service, and a central location, make this one of the city’s best choices.

(Jia Zhangke; 2000) Epic account of the changes in China’s pop culture during the 1980s.

At the Poly Plaza, a shopping mall on the Second Ring Road, consumerism comes with added culture in the form of this small museum of traditional arts and crafts. Exhibits include Buddhas, bodhisattvas, bronzes, and some exquisite bells decorated with animal faces.

The Chinese invented porcelain a thousand years before Europe caught on – and kept production methods secret to protect their competitive advantage.

Qing court kitsch doesn’t get much more over the top than this: wait staff dolled up in traditional dress, while dances and songs are performed throughout dinner. Touristy? Yes, but the Qing court-styled food is excellent and you are ensured a memorable evening (see Princess Mansion).

Refined imperial court cuisine in a mansion that once belonged to the Empress Cixi. Excellent food comes with theatrical frills.

In the 11th century, the Chinese carved individual characters on pieces of clay, inventing movable block type.

Shadow-puppet theater is an art form that has been performed more or less unchanged in China since the 3rd century AD. Shows employ many of the story lines and musical styles of Beijing Opera, while the puppets can be quite elaborate and colorfully dressed. The best place to catch a performance is at the China Puppet Art Theater (Anhua Xili, off Bei Sanhuan Lu).