Subject
China -- Description and travel Books
Best books
Hongzu Xu
徐霞客遊記
"徐霞客遊記" by Hongzu Xu is a Chinese travelogue written in the 17th century. Over 34 years, Ming dynasty geographer Xu Xiake traveled across all 16 provinces of China, documenting his journeys in more than 600,000 words. The work offers detailed observations of geography, hydrology, geology, and plant life while correcting geographical errors. Xu's dangerous travels and unwavering dedication inspired the phrase "spirit of Xu Xiake," celebrating his remarkable persistence and contributions to both science and literature.
Alexander Michie
The Siberian Overland Route from Peking to Petersburg, Through the Deserts and Steppes of Mongolia, Tartary, &c.
"The Siberian Overland Route from Peking to Petersburg" by Alexander Michie is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work presents a firsthand narrative of the author's journey from China to Russia through Mongolia and Siberia, detailing the landscapes, cultures, and experiences encountered along the way. The book aims to shed light on a route that had been largely unexplored and, as suggested in the preface, aims to provide new insights into the regions traversed. The opening of the book introduces Michie's motivation for embarking on this journey, inspired by previous travelers and the desire to experience the mysteries of less-known regions. He contrasts the difficulties and discomforts of the journey by sea with the allure of the northern route through challenging climates and unfamiliar landscapes. Michie describes the societal changes occurring in China at the time, particularly concerning foreign access and the restrictions imposed by the local government, while setting the stage for his travel experiences that follow. The narrative is filled with observations on the geography, local customs, and the dynamics of foreign and native interactions, effectively drawing the reader into the journey's historical context.
Unknown
Wandering in Northern China
"Wandering in Northern China" by Harry Alverson Franck is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's explorations through various regions of Northern China, emphasizing his unstructured journey and personal impressions rather than strict adherence to itineraries or predefined narratives. The text reflects Franck's observations on the culture, landscapes, and people he encounters, aiming to provide readers with an intimate glimpse into life in China during that tumultuous period. The opening of the book presents Franck's rationale for his travels: he seeks a deeper understanding of the East through casual exploration rather than rapid sightseeing, highlighting the richness and complexity inherent in the region. He elaborates on the contrast between his experiences in Japan and Korea, noting geographical, cultural, and atmospheric differences that shape his perception as he arrives in Korea. Franck paints vivid imagery of Korea's landscapes, social customs, and unique architecture while introducing the reader to the realities of life for ordinary Koreans in the face of Japanese rule. Overall, this introductory section sets the tone for a reflective narrative filled with observations that transcend simple travel experiences, delving into the nuances of a culture undergoing significant change.
John Dewey
Letters from China and Japan
"Letters from China and Japan" by John Dewey and Harriet Alice Chipman Dewey is a collection of letters written in the early 20th century. The book captures the experiences and reflections of John Dewey, a prominent philosopher, and his wife, Alice, during their travels in Japan and later in China. It presents keen observations on cultural interactions, societal views, and daily life in these countries, offering insights into the pair's journey amidst the backdrop of historical events unfolding during that time. The opening of the book introduces the Deweys in Tokyo, where they delight in the colorful chaos of the city, from its fashion to the lively street scenes. John's humorous accounts blend personal anecdotes with cultural commentary as he notes the peculiarities of Japanese clothing and local customs. As they navigate Tokyo's winding streets with little knowledge of the language, their awe for the unfamiliar sights shines through. The narrative sets the stage for their exploration of Japan's rich history, philosophy, and contemporary issues, while also revealing their desire to connect deeply with the culture and people they encounter along the way.
Mary Gaunt
A Woman In China
"A Woman In China" by Mary Gaunt is a travel memoir written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores the author's journey to China, combining personal observations with cultural critiques as she reflects on the complexities of the Chinese society she encounters. With a focus on her experiences, the book serves as a vivid account of a woman's exploration in a land filled with ancient customs, political tensions, and dynamic realities. At the start of the memoir, the author reminisces about her childhood fascination with her grandmother's Chinese curiosities, which ignited her desire to travel despite financial constraints. Her subsequent decision to visit China is sparked by a conversation with Dr. Morrison, an Australian correspondent she met through family ties. As she travels from England to Peking, she experiences various landscapes, confronts challenges during her journey through Russia and Siberia, and marvels at the beauty and harshness of the regions she passes. The opening chapters set the stage for an exploration of China's rich history and society, blending personal narrative with insights into the broader cultural implications of her travels.
George Ernest Morrison
An Australian in China : $b Being the narrative of a quiet journey across China to Burma
"An Australian in China: Being the Narrative of a Quiet Journey Across China to Burma" by George Ernest Morrison is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the author's personal journey from Shanghai up the Yangtse River to Chungking, and then into Western China and the Shan States on his way to Burma. Morrison shares his experiences travelling incognito as a Chinese, navigating a culture he initially held prejudice against, but later grew to understand and appreciate. The opening of this work introduces readers to Morrison’s plans for travel and his reflections on Chinese society, particularly during his time in Hankow. He outlines his intention to traverse China relatively unencumbered by the conventions of foreign travelers, describing the kindness and hospitality he received from the Chinese people. Throughout this portion, the author provides insights into the complex relationship between foreign missionaries and Chinese culture, highlighting the mingling of trade, customs, and the missionary presence in China. The tone is both observational and critical, suggesting a nuanced understanding of the challenges and surprises that lie ahead on his adventurous journey.
Edwin John Dingle
Across China on Foot
"Across China on Foot" by Edwin John Dingle is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's ambitious journey traversing the breadth of China on foot, highlighting his encounters with the culture, people, and landscapes of the region. It likely aims to provide an insightful commentary on the historical and social climate of China during a period of significant change and reform, as well as a personal exploration of the author’s experiences in this vast and complex territory. At the start of the book, the author reflects on his purpose for the expedition and recounts his preparations to walk across the country, starting from Shanghai and moving towards British Burma. He shares insights into the perceptions and realities of traveling in China, emphasizing the physical and mental challenges he anticipates. Dingle hints at the difficulties he expects to encounter, including cultural barriers and the harshness of the terrain. As he embarks on his journey, the author’s enthusiasm is tempered by a clear understanding of the rigors ahead, setting the tone for the adventures that will unfold throughout the narrative.
Algernon Bertram Freeman-Mitford Redesdale
The attaché at Peking
"The Attaché at Peking" by A.B. Freeman-Mitford is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work comprises a series of letters reflecting on the author’s experiences and observations while living in China, particularly in Peking, during a time of significant political and social tension. It provides insights into Chinese customs, the complexities of foreign relations, and the precarious position of Europeans in a country rife with contradictions. The opening of the book establishes the author’s perspective on the slow-changing nature of Chinese society and explains the context of the letters, which were written during a time when foreign powers occupied a sensitive position in China. Freeman-Mitford discusses the contrasts between China and Japan in terms of modernization and historical stability, emphasizing the deep-seated cultural pride of the Chinese in their ancient civilization. He captures the atmosphere of tension and underlying threats in Peking, reflecting on both his personal experiences there and the broader implications of foreign presence in a country facing insurrections and societal upheaval.
Harry De Windt
From Pekin to Calais by Land
"From Pekin to Calais by Land" by Harry De Windt is a travelogue written in the late 19th century. This narrative chronicles the author's adventurous journey across Europe and Asia, specifically detailing the overland trek from Pekin (Beijing) in China to Calais in France. The author, joined by a fellow traveler named Lancaster, expresses both excitement and trepidation about their planned route, which traverses relatively unknown territories, vast deserts, and multiple countries. The opening of the narrative sets the stage for a grand journey filled with anticipation and meticulous planning, highlighting the challenges faced even before the travelers embarked on their voyage. Introduced through a conversation with a young lady questioning the feasibility of overland travel to China, the author reflects on the lack of recent information regarding their intended route. The journey officially begins with their departure from Gravesend, capturing initial thoughts, encounters, and the underlying sense of adventure as they aim to navigate through various cities and landscapes, including the Gobi Desert and Siberia. As they begin, the narrative suggests a mix of humility and caution, foreshadowing the potential hardships they might encounter along this ambitious route.
Lindon Bates
The Russian road to China
The Russian road to China by Jr. Lindon Bates is a historical travel narrative written in the early 20th century. It traces the overland corridor from European Russia across Siberia and Mongolia to the Chinese frontier, blending on-the-spot travel with a sweeping history of Cossack conquest, caravan trade, and the coming of the Trans-Siberian Railway. The focus is the route’s geography, peoples, and politics—from the Urals and Lake Baikal to Urga, the Great Wall, and Peking. The tone mixes history, reportage, and geopolitical reflection. The opening of this work first sketches the “path of the Cossack,” showing how the fur trade, the Stroganovs’ ventures, and Yermak’s campaigns opened Siberia and led to pledging the new realm to Ivan the Terrible, then follows the push east to Yakutsk and the Pacific, the treaties that closed and reopened trade, and the great tea caravans through Kiahta and Urga. It argues that railways and war shifted Russia’s access to China, with the Manchurian route crippled after conflict and the old Mongolian road holding future promise. Bates paints vivid scenes of Cossacks, settlers, Old Believers, Buriats, and Mongol lamas, and the stark contrasts of empire and steppe. The narrative then shifts aboard the Trans-Siberian: a wintry climb over the Urals, life in the dining car, a former political convict’s seven-year march, the vast monotony of the steppe, and stops that prompt tales of Omsk’s river web, Tomsk’s missed railway link, the great railway strike, exile to the Yakutsk, and the Crown’s “cabinetski” domains. It closes this beginning with the train nearing Irkutsk and Lake Baikal, promising a closer look at the city and the road ahead.
Roy Chapman Andrews
Camps and Trails in China A Narrative of Exploration, Adventure, and Sport in Little-Known China
"Camps and Trails in China" by Roy Chapman Andrews and Yvette Borup Andrews is an adventure narrative written in the early 20th century. The work chronicles the Asiatic Zoölogical Expedition conducted by the American Museum of Natural History in China between 1916 and 1917. The narrative focuses on the experiences of the authors, along with their companions, as they explore the diverse ecosystems of Yün-nan, interact with various indigenous tribes, and engage in hunting expeditions for big game, including the elusive blue tiger. The opening of the book sets the stage for the expedition, discussing the cultural and political background of early 20th-century China, including the turmoil surrounding Yuan Shi-kai's failed monarchy. It introduces the members of the expedition and the logistical challenges they face in navigating the unfamiliar landscapes and interacting with indigenous peoples. The authors detail their preparations and early travels, highlighting their arrival in Foochow and the chaotic environment surrounding them as they begin their journey toward Yün-nan, aiming for big game hunts while also documenting their findings in zoology and anthropology. The blend of adventure, personal anecdotes, and the allure of exploring the uncharted territories of China creates a captivating introduction to the broader themes of the book.
Archibald Little
Intimate China: The Chinese as I Have Seen Them
"Intimate China: The Chinese as I Have Seen Them" by Mrs. Archibald Little is a travel memoir written in the late 19th century. This work offers a firsthand account and personal reflections on the author's experiences during her time in China, detailing cultural observations and the richness of Chinese life. Through her narrative, Little aims to illuminate the everyday lives of Chinese people, moving beyond mere statistics and facts to provide a vivid, personal exploration of the places and customs she encountered. The opening of the memoir introduces the author’s arrival in Shanghai and her first impressions of both the city and its people. She describes the stark contrast between her tropical journey and the chilly atmosphere of Shanghai, painting a bustling scene filled with European influences alongside traditional Chinese elements. Detailing her initial experiences, Little expresses both excitement and disappointment, particularly in observing a muddier reality than the romanticized vision often associated with China. She captures the complex interplay of cultures, vibrant city life, and her interactions with the local populace, setting the stage for a rich exploration that promises to reveal the intricacies of Chinese society as she moves deeper into the country.
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