Hardcover. Boasting more than 300 full-color maps and illustrations, this essential atlas dramatically highlights the tremendous changes occurring within China--the world's fastest growing economy and most populous place--as well as their global implications. National Geographic maps the entire country with sections covering all provinces--including towns, cities, and transportation networks--to provide rich, comprehensive, and meticulously researched coverage of China's dynamic landscape. Ten major cities receive an entire spread with detailed maps and fact boxes. And as Shanghai prepares to host the 2010 World's Fair--China's first, expected to draw 70 million visitors--this important destination is charted extensively as well. Fascinating thematic maps accurately post the latest information on trade, energy, natural resources, population, military strength, religion, languages, tourism, transportation, and more. A substantial place-name index helps the reader navigate to thousands of specific locations. A historical time line, commentaries, graphs, travel info, and photos complete the thorough yet succinct coverage of today's China. For the millions of vacationers who tour the country each year, companies doing business with China, students of history and geography, and others interested in world events, this timely reference will prove indispensable.