3 Best Sights in Eastern China, China

History buffs will be fascinated by a trip to "the island Chairman Mao couldn't capture." Though barely a stone's throw from mainland China, this little chunk of land is still controlled by Taiwan, and Taiwanese guards patrol its shores. A visit is possible, but you'll need to do some planning. Apple Tours (www.appletravel.cn; [email protected]) can arrange boats to the island for Y189 there and Y155 back, plus a car and driver/guide who speaks English for another Y1,100. Be sure to email Apple Tours at least a week in advance.

A palace for the exclusive use of the emperor during his visits to Hangzhou once stood on Solitary Hill Island, the largest island in West Lake. On its southern side is a small, carefully composed park with several pavilions and a pond. A path leads up the hill to the Xiling Seal Engraver's Society, where professional carvers design and create seals. The society's garden has one of the best views of the lake.

Here you'll find walkways surrounding several large ponds, all connected by zigzagging bridges. Off the island's southern shore are three Ming Dynasty–era mini stone pagodas. During the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, held in the middle of September, lanterns are lit in the pagodas, creating the reflections that give the island its name. Leisure boats from several spots around the lake, including a dock near Yue Fei's memorial, will shuttle you to the pagodas for around Y55.