Window of the World, Theme park at Changsha, China

Window of the World is a 40-hectare theme park in Xingsha, north of Changsha, bordered by Kaiyuan Road to the south, Sanyi Avenue to the north, Wanjiali Road to the east and Jinxiu Road to the west, adjoining the Jinying film and television culture city. Its roughly 50 replicas of world landmarks include Neuschwanstein Castle, the Lighthouse of Alexandria and the church of Santissima Trinità dei Monti. Rides range from the Double Tower and roller coaster to the Ferris wheel, bumper boats and bungee jump.

The park opened in 1997 as part of China's growing interest in presenting global culture to its visitors. A major company took a stake in the operation years later and helped expand the attractions available.

The park's replicas anchor its cultural side: a Neuschwanstein Castle from Germany, the Lighthouse of Alexandria from Egypt and the Holy Trinity Church from Italy stand among the roughly 50 models. Stages host acrobatic acts and a Western theatre, and a peacock garden sits on the grounds. The park opened on 1 October 1997, National Day, and was formally operating from 16 October 1997.

The park operates year-round, so you can visit in different seasons and weather conditions. Wear comfortable shoes and plan for rest breaks since the grounds are large and you will spend much time walking between attractions.

You can walk from the Eiffel Tower to the Great Wall to Mount Fuji in just minutes, creating an unusual geographic experience. This proximity of far-flung landmarks allows you to compare different architectures and cultures in a single day, which real travel cannot offer.