Sue Davidson

A country of staggering contrasts, China is home to the world's highest mountains, arid deserts, bustling megacities, the ruins of ancient civilizations and the source of Asia's biggest rivers. Now, a new four-part series from Smithsonian Channel reveals the secrets and patterns of life in traditional and modern China in stunning ultra-high definition, portraying 40 locations across all four corners of the country. Through a combination of innovative aerial photography and on-the-ground human stories, CHINA FROM ABOVE showcases this breathtaking nation like never before and reveals a country that has long fascinated and mystified. CHINA FROM ABOVE premieres Monday, November 12 at 8 PM ET/PT on Smithsonian Channel.