The face of China: Travels in east, north, central and western China

"The Face of China: Travels in East, North, Central and Western China" by E.G. Kemp is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the author's extensive journeys across various provinces of China, capturing the cultural landscapes, societal changes, and religious sites encountered along the way. It presents a vivid depiction of the author's experiences, aiming to share the beauty and complexity of China with readers who may not have the opportunity to visit. At the start of the narrative, Kemp recounts his tumultuous arrival in China, detailing his first moments in Hong Kong amidst the aftermath of a typhoon. He describes the impressive transformation of Hong Kong from a barren island to a bustling port and contrasts it with the more traditional hustle and bustle of Shanghai. Through rich descriptions of the local streets, markets, and social dynamics, Kemp sets the stage for his exploration of the broader Chinese landscape, introducing the complexities of urban life while hinting at the deeper themes of cultural exchange and modernization in a changing world.