To visit China, a visa is required, which must be applied for in person or through a travel agent, with fees starting at $130. Upon arrival, expect heat imaging scanners, limited English from cab drivers, and an overwhelming construction presence. The Leshan Giant Buddha, an impressive historical site, was built during the Tang Dynasty.

6. Getting there from here
 Visa required invitation from sponsoring group in China
 Must be applied for in person or via a travel/visa agent. No
mailed applications accepted
 $130 for a visa, types available:
 Single Entry* (Valid 90 or 180 days from date of issue)
 Double Entry* (same as above)
 Multiple Entry* for 6 months
 Multiple Entry* for 12 months
 Form requires you list your contacts in China, as well as travel
plans/itinerary and they request copies of your airline
tickets/schedule
*Typically good for 30 day visit per entry

8. First Impressions
Heat imaging scanners at the airport upon arrival
Metallic smell and low visibility (reminded me of the smell
of a subway station with poor ventilation)
ATMs worked fine for cash withdrawl
Limited English of cab drivers (but I brought my hotel
instructions in multiple languages)
Nice roads, impressive airport terminal, many, many
cranes building many, many buildings

58. Leshan Giant Buddha built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD)Leshan Giant Buddha built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD)