Watch China: Nature's Ancient Kingdom

China: Nature's Ancient Kingdom is a six-episode nature documentary series produced by BBC and presented by Vanessa Kirby. The show explores the diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of China, ranging from the towering Himalayan mountains to the remote forests of Yunnan province.

Throughout the series, Kirby takes the viewers on a journey through the millennia-old history and diverse cultures of China, while showcasing its rich and varied ecological system. Using stunning visuals and cutting-edge cinematography, the series captures the natural beauty and complexity of the Chinese wilderness, and examines the challenges it faces in the modern age.

The first episode of the series, entitled "The Land of the Panda," introduces us to the most iconic of China's wildlife species - the giant panda. Kirby explores the bamboo forests of Sichuan province, where the pandas make their home, and delves into the history of this quintessential Chinese animal. She also explores the efforts to preserve the habitat of these vulnerable creatures and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them from extinction.

The second episode, "The Mountains of the Gods," focuses on the Himalayan range in western China. Kirby takes us on a journey through this jaw-droppingly beautiful mountainous region, showcasing the stunning peaks, vast glaciers, and the unique animal species that call it home. She also explores the region's rich cultural heritage, which has been shaped by the mountain range's influence for millennia.

In the third episode, "The Heart of the Dragon," Kirby introduces us to the wildlife of the Yangtze River, China's longest river, and the people who depend on it for their livelihoods. The episode explores the diverse ecology of the river valley, showcasing its lush wetlands, terraced rice paddies, and the rare and remarkable aquatic species that call its waters home, including the elusive river dolphin.

The fourth episode, "The Forests of the Wild," takes us to the remote forests of Yunnan province, on China's southwestern border, where we meet some of the rarest and most enigmatic species on Earth. Kirby takes us into these lush tropical jungles, home to snub-nosed monkeys, Asian elephants, and the giant salamander, the largest amphibian on the planet.

In the fifth episode, "The Land of Ice and Snow," Kirby ventures into the extreme environments of Tibet, where we encounter some of China's most elusive and remarkable animals. From silver foxes adapted to life in the freezing high-altitude desert to snow leopards and Himalayan brown bears, the episode shows the challenges these creatures face, as well as the traditional practices and beliefs of the Tibetan people who have coexisted with these beasts for centuries.

The final episode, "The Crimson Desert," explores China's deserts, which cover a vast area of the country's north and northwest. Kirby takes us into these harsh and arid landscapes, which are home to a unique array of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, Bactrian camels, and wild horses. The episode also highlights the unique adaptations of these animals to their extreme environments, as well as the innovative efforts of modern conservationists to preserve their populations and habitats.

Overall, China: Nature's Ancient Kingdom is a fascinating and visually stunning exploration of China's breathtaking landscapes and incredible biodiversity. Kirby's insightful commentary and engaging presentation make this an accessible and entertaining series for nature lovers and anyone interested in the culture and history of this ancient and diverse nation.

China: Nature's Ancient Kingdom is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between May 15, 2021 and on BBC