Ben Fogle in China S01E01 - Episode 1

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.