14 years ago this american sold his house and moved to DaLi, China

With Wei's Travel ... Bonus film, with Walk East ...

A beautiful series of grottoes filled with Buddhist sculpture carved into natural caves and caverns in a canyon along the Yellow River. It lies just north of where the Yellow River empties into the LiuJiaXia Reservoir.

With MisterVaughn ... Welcome to BeiWangShan Forest Park Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Beiwangshan Forest Park in Beijing. Introduction Beiwangshan Forest Park, located in Beijing, is a beautiful natural retreat offering a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is known for its lush greenery, scenic views, and diverse wildlife. Location Beiwangshan Forest Park is situated in the north-west part of Beijing, making it easily accessible from the city center. History Beiwangshan Forest Park was established in the late 20th century as part of Beijing's efforts to enhance urban green spaces and promote ecological conservation. The park has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a natural escape within the bustling city. The development of the park included extensive tree planting, trail construction, and the establishment of various facilities to support outdoor activities and environmental education. Over the years, it has grown into a mature forest park, celebrated for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. Attractions Scenic Trails: Explore numerous hiking trails that offer stunning views of the forest and surrounding areas. Observation Decks: Enjoy panoramic views from various observation decks situated within the park. Flora and Fauna: Witness a rich diversity of plant and animal species. Picnic Areas: Relax and have a meal in designated picnic spots. Activities Hiking and Nature Walks Bird Watching Photography Picnicking Camping (seasonal) Facilities Visitor Center Restrooms Parking Lots Food Stalls Guided Tour Services Visitor Tips Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. Bring enough water and snacks. Respect the natural environment; do not litter. Check the weather forecast before your visit. Follow park regulations and guidelines.

With Our Travel Journal ... ZhuJiaJiao Ancient Water Town Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of ZhuJiaJiao ZhuJiaJiao, often referred to as the "Venice of Shanghai," is an ancient water town located about 47 kilometers from the bustling center of Shanghai. With a history spanning over 1,700 years, this charming town is known for its picturesque canals, traditional Chinese architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. It was established during the Three Kingdoms Period and flourished during the Ming and Qing Dynasties as a vital trading hub. Top Attractions in ZhuJiaJiao 1. Fangsheng Bridge The Fangsheng Bridge, built in 1571, is one of the most iconic landmarks in ZhuJiaJiao. It is the longest, largest, and tallest stone bridge in the town, offering stunning views of the water town's canals and ancient buildings. 2. Kezhi Garden This classical Chinese garden features intricate rockeries, tranquil ponds, and traditional pavilions. Originally built in 1912, Kezhi Garden showcases the beauty of Chinese landscaping and architecture. 3. Qing Dynasty Post Office Dating back to the Qing Dynasty, this ancient post office is the oldest in eastern China. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the postal history of China and houses a collection of old letters and postcards. 4. Great North Street Great North Street is the main commercial street of ZhuJiaJiao, lined with quaint shops, tea houses, and traditional residences. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs, local crafts, and taste delicious street food. Activities to Enjoy 1. Boat Rides Take a traditional wooden boat ride through the canals of ZhuJiaJiao for a unique perspective of the town's historic architecture and scenic views. The boat rides are a relaxing way to explore the waterways. 2. Walking Tours Stroll along the ancient streets and alleys, explore hidden courtyards, and admire the well-preserved ancient architecture. Walking tours are the best way to immerse yourself in the charm of ZhuJiaJiao. 3. Tea Tasting Visit one of the many tea houses along the canals to experience traditional Chinese tea culture. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while overlooking the serene waterways. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Zongzi (Rice Dumplings) ZhuJiaJiao is famous for its zongzi, a traditional Chinese food made of glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, typically filled with red bean paste or meat. 2. Steamed Pork Dumplings These delicious dumplings are a must-try in ZhuJiaJiao. They are steamed to perfection and filled with savory pork and a touch of soup. 3. Lotus Root Snacks A local delicacy, these crunchy lotus root snacks are sweet, sticky, and coated with honey. They make for a perfect snack while exploring the town. How to Get There By Bus Take the Huzhu Express Line from Shanghai Stadium, which takes about 1 hour to reach ZhuJiaJiao. Buses run frequently throughout the day. By Car ZhuJiaJiao is approximately a 1-hour drive from downtown Shanghai. You can either hire a private car or take a taxi for a more comfortable journey. By Metro Take Line 17 of the Shanghai Metro and get off at ZhuJiaJiao Station. From the station, it's a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk to the water town. Travel Tips for ZhuJiaJiao Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring on foot and navigating cobblestone streets. Bring cash, as many of the smaller shops and food stalls may not accept credit cards. Don't forget your camera to capture the picturesque views of canals, bridges, and ancient architecture.

With Yin's Travel ... Bonus film - driving on the XinJiang-Tibet highway, Kudi to Mazha - with Walk China ...

With Clare Traveling Pandaland ... Tengchong, Yunnan Province: A Visitor's Guide Tengchong, located in the western part of Yunnan Province near the border with Myanmar, is a gem of natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and historical significance, it offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. How to Get There By Air: Tengchong Tuofeng Airport connects the city to major Chinese cities like Kunming and Chengdu. By Road: A scenic drive from Kunming takes around 8–10 hours by car or bus, passing through the mountainous Yunnan terrain. Top Attractions 1. Rehai Hot Springs Why Visit: Known as "Hot Sea," this geothermal area has over 80 hot spring pools, each with unique properties. Some are perfect for a relaxing soak, while others are too hot and are used for steaming food or traditional therapies. Don’t Miss: Try the therapeutic spa treatments or soak in an outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery. 2. Tengchong Volcanic Geothermal National Park Highlights: Home to dormant volcanic craters and lava fields, this park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. Activities: Climb up volcanoes like Dakongshan (Large Empty Mountain) for panoramic views, or explore the Lava Stone Forest. 3. Heshun Ancient Town Why Visit: A quaint town filled with cobbled streets, traditional Yunnan-style homes, and a rich history of overseas Chinese who returned home. Must-See: Visit the Heshun Library, one of the oldest private libraries in China, and explore the charming teahouses and ancestral halls. 4. Beihai Wetlands Overview: This serene area features floating meadows and diverse bird species. Activities: Take a boat ride through the wetlands or enjoy bird-watching during migratory seasons. 5. Yunfeng Mountain Why Visit: A sacred Taoist site with an ancient temple at its peak. What to Do: Hike or take a cable car up the mountain, then enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 6. Dianmian Anti-Japanese War Memorial Historical Importance: Tengchong was a key battleground during WWII. This memorial honors the local and international soldiers who fought against Japanese forces. What to See: Artifacts, photographs, and the reconstructed battle sites. Cultural Highlights Traditional Crafts: Tengchong is famous for its jade carving. Visit local workshops to see artisans at work or purchase unique jade jewelry. Ethnic Diversity: Experience the culture of the Bai, Dai, and Lisu ethnic groups through their festivals, dances, and cuisines. Local Cuisine Signature Dishes: Guoqiao Mixian (Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles): A flavorful noodle soup with a variety of toppings. Bamboo Rice: Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes. Tengchong Fried Pork: Crispy pork stir-fried with local spices. Mushroom Hotpot: A must-try with Yunnan’s diverse range of wild mushrooms. Snacks: Don’t miss the fengmi baba (honey glutinous rice cake) or fried potato balls. Best Time to Visit Spring and Autumn (March–May, September–November): These seasons offer mild weather and clear skies, perfect for outdoor exploration. Winter (December–February): Ideal for enjoying the hot springs, though mornings and evenings can be chilly. Shopping Jade and Gemstones: Tengchong is renowned for its high-quality jade. Look for authentic pieces in certified stores. Local Handicrafts: Embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and bamboo products make great souvenirs. Tea: Yunnan is known for its Pu’er and black teas, widely available in Tengchong. Practical Tips Language: Mandarin is widely spoken, though some locals speak Yunnan dialects. Learn a few basic phrases for ease of communication. Currency: Bring enough cash, as rural areas may not accept cards or digital payments. Transportation: Rent a bicycle or use tuk-tuks to explore small towns like Heshun. Clothing: Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate between day and night, especially in the mountains. Day Trips Ruili: A bustling border town with vibrant markets and a mix of Chinese and Burmese cultures. Myanmar Border: Visit the border towns to experience the unique blend of Chinese and Burmese influences. Tengchong is a destination that beautifully combines natural wonders, cultural depth, and historical significance, offering something for every traveler.

Great video ! Song by Pharrell Williams ... Bonus film : hop in for a drive around ShenZhen ...

The provincial capital is GuiYang.