THE rich and exciting culture of China is set to come to Basingstoke in a major national touring exhibition.

The China: Journey to the East exhibition will feature extraordinary artefacts, thousands of years old, that uncover the nation’s colourful history.

China is one of the world’s oldest nations and has been responsible for many of the world’s major inventions.

The exhibition will be held in the newly-refurbished Sainsbury Gallery at The Willis Museum in August and it will be the first time it has left the British Museum in London.

The Willis has only been allowed to host the 100 ancient artefacts due to the upgraded security at the gallery.

Highlights will include a rare roof tile in the form of the Chinese general, Guan Yu, riding his horse, extraordinary 1,300 year-old jam tarts in the form of food offerings and a beautiful stoneware incense burner with a dragon and phoenix from the Ming dynasty.

Yinnon Ezra, director of culture, communities and rural affairs for Hampshire County Council, said: “We are delighted to have a national touring exhibition visiting Basingstoke for the first time.

“This was only made possible due to the newly-refurbished Sainsbury Gallery, which has had its security upgraded to be able to host such rare and exciting collections. I hope the people of Basingstoke will make the most of this rare opportunity to experience one of the most important and influential civilisations.”

The China: Journey to the East exhibition will be at the museum, in Market Place, from August 1 to December 24.