The Silk Road

by Judy Bonavia

Published September 1996
The early trade in silk was carried on against incredible odds by great caravans of merchants and animals traveling over some of the most inhospitable territory on the face of the earth, including searing, waterless deserts and snowbound mountain passes.

From the wild windswept snowfields of its source in Tibet, to the rich farmlands of its delta on the Yellow Sea, the mighty Yangzi has always had symbolic and practical significance for the Chinese. They refer to it simply as Changjiang, or Long River. Stretching for nearly 4,000 miles, the Yangzi is China's main artery, supporting a third of its people; it also serves as the country's primary commercial waterway. This detailed guide to the river and its scenery and environs includes practical information about sights and accommodation. Illustrated by exceptional color photography and informative maps and plans, it is an essential companion for anyone with an interest in China's Long River.