Even though I feel the photographs don't give people the real insight to how beautiful China's urban and rural areas are, here are a few photographs from each city:
Botanical Gardens, Shanghai Bell Tower, Xi'An Wenshu Temple, Chengdu
Jiuzhai Gou had to be my favourite, without a doubt. The mountainous views and flowing rivers, the hundreds of yaks and the friendly locals; the place was unimaginable. Even though it took us ten hours to get there from Chengdu, it was 100% worth it. I would do it all over again just to see those views!
We were taken to visit Zhou Ma's brother's house where he also offers a homestay (slightly grander than Zhou Ma's, but more modern). He showed us around and guided us through the history of their family, with photographs of all the people who had previously visited (some who were famous journalists and writers).
The other highlight, for both of us, was visiting the Terracotta Warriors museum. This emotional experience will be unforgettable.
A few photographs I have been playing around with in photoshop.
Leshan Giant Buddha
Prayer flags which were all around the Jiuzhai Gou