Ben Fogle in China

In this episode, Ben dives headfirst into the living history, culture and fast-paced modern life of China, from the ancient Great Wall to the bustling streets of Shanghai. He begins at the Jiankou section of the Great Wall, joining a team dedicated to rebuilding it in its original 17th-century style. After a shaky start setting new stones in this iconic ancient monument, Ben impresses his mentor and gains a deeper understanding of what the Wall has meant to generations of Chinese, both as a physical fortress and a symbol of endurance. Back in Beijing, Ben experiences the city through its people and its incredible bustling parks. Firstly discovering a group of energetic grannies performing graceful public dances, he joins in himself and uncovers the roots of this communal activity in the early years of communist China.

In this episode, Ben goes deep into rural China's epic story, embarking on a journey of wonder across Sichuan and Yunnan, exploring how China's deep traditions continue to shape life in a country racing towards the future. He begins at Qingcheng Mountain, the birthplace of Taoism, where a 36th-generation Kung Fu master introduces him to the philosophy and practice of tai chi. From there, he heads into the Sichuan countryside in search of China's most treasured national symbol: the giant panda. At a rarely seen panda rewilding programme, Ben gains unique access to efforts aimed at returning these iconic animals to the wild – but only if he and the crew dress as pandas themselves.

The final episode in this three-part journey through China begins in Shenzhen, the country's Silicon Valley, where Ben witnesses a breathtaking nighttime drone display. He also marvels as 40 of the city's skyscrapers blaze to life, illuminated by 40 million LEDs.