Home to over a billion people, China is the world's new superpower and the country we all want to know about. But to truly understand China, its people and its incredible success today we need to know its astonishing history. This beautifully-shot portrait looks at China from its ancient roots to the present day, taking viewers on a fascinating journey through the landscapes, peoples, stories and cultures that have helped create its distinctive character and genius over more than 4,000 years. Full of big ideas and surprises, the series follows historian Michael Wood as he visits ancient cities, meets people from all walks of life and traces some of the great moments in Chinese history - from extraordinary voyages of exploration to amazing scientific inventions.