China eyes hosting the Winter Olympics

Colorful Beijing life, plus a beautiful timelapse film and more ... A look at the city through the seasons. SiChaHai central lakes area at night (QianHai and HouHai) ...

With Zara Living in Hangzhou ... Welcome to Xixi Wetland Park Experience the Natural Beauty of HangZhou About Xixi Wetland Park Xixi Wetland Park is a national wetland park located in the western part of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Covering an area of approximately 10 square kilometers, Xixi is renowned for its rich ecological resources, scenic landscapes, and profound cultural heritage. The park is a haven for wildlife and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, featuring numerous watercourses, lakes, and traditional houses. Main Attractions Hazy Fisher Village Hazy Fisher Village is a picturesque area within the park that showcases traditional fishing culture. Visitors can explore the village, observe fishing demonstrations, and enjoy the serene environment. Autumn Snow Temple The Autumn Snow Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in the heart of Xixi Wetland Park. The temple, surrounded by beautiful scenery, offers a tranquil spot for meditation and reflection. Boating on the Waterways Boating is one of the most popular activities in Xixi. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride through the park's intricate network of waterways, enjoying the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. Traditional Houses Xixi Wetland Park is home to many traditional houses that reflect the architectural style of the region. These houses offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the local people. Activities Bird Watching Xixi Wetland Park is a paradise for bird watchers. The park's diverse habitats attract a wide variety of bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watching and photography. Photography With its stunning landscapes, traditional architecture, and abundant wildlife, Xixi Wetland Park offers excellent opportunities for photography. Capture the beauty of the wetlands and the charm of the ancient village. Walking and Cycling The park features well-maintained paths that are perfect for walking and cycling. Visitors can explore the park at their own pace, enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty. Seasonal Festivals Xixi Wetland Park hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Dragon Boat Festival and the Plum Blossom Festival. These events highlight the local culture and traditions. Transport Xixi Wetland Park is easily accessible from various parts of Hangzhou. Here are some ways to get there: By Bus: Multiple bus routes stop near Xixi Wetland Park, including routes 506, 193, and 310. Get off at the Xixi Wetland stop. By Subway: Take Line 5 to Zijingang Road Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach the park. By Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you are traveling with a group or have heavy luggage. Just ask the driver to take you to Xixi Wetland Park (西溪湿地公园).

Top 30 places to visit in and around HangZhou : West Lake (西湖, Xī Hú): Explore the scenic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with boat rides and leisurely strolls around the lake. Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺, Língyǐn Sì): Visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China, known for its ancient architecture and serene surroundings. Qinghefang Ancient Street (清河坊古街, Qīnghéfāng Gǔjiē): Wander through this historic street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and street food vendors. Longjing Tea Plantation (龙井茶园, Lóngjǐng Cháyuán): Experience tea culture and enjoy a scenic hike through the picturesque tea fields. Hefang Street (河坊街, Héfāng Jiē): Discover a lively pedestrian street filled with shops selling local crafts, snacks, and souvenirs. China National Tea Museum (中国茶叶博物馆, Zhōngguó Cháyè Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of tea in China through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Xixi Wetland Park (西溪湿地, Xīxī Shīdì): Enjoy nature walks, boat rides, and birdwatching in this scenic wetland park. Huqingyu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum (胡庆余堂药店博物馆, Húqìngyútáng Yàodiàn Bówùguǎn): Explore the history of traditional Chinese medicine and herbal remedies. Song Dynasty Town (宋城, Sòng Chéng): Step back in time to the Song Dynasty era and experience traditional architecture, performances, and cultural activities. National Silk Museum (中国丝绸博物馆, Zhōngguó Sīchóu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the ancient art of silk production and admire exquisite silk artifacts. Hangzhou Zoo (杭州动物园, Hángzhōu Dòngwùyuán): Spend a day with the family exploring the diverse animal exhibits and enjoying fun activities. Thousand Island Lake (千岛湖, Qiāndǎo Hú): Take a scenic boat cruise on this vast reservoir surrounded by lush green mountains. Six Harmonies Pagoda (六和塔, Liùhé Tǎ): Climb to the top of this ancient pagoda for panoramic views of the Qiantang River and surrounding landscapes. China Academy of Art (中国美术学院, Zhōngguó Měishù Xuéyuàn): Visit the campus and galleries of one of China's leading art institutions. Hangzhou Botanical Garden (杭州植物园, Hángzhōu Zhíwùyuán): Explore the diverse plant collections and scenic landscapes of this botanical garden. Grand Canal (大运河, Dà Yùnhé): Take a boat tour or stroll along the historic Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over 1,000 years. China National Silk Museum (中国丝绸博物馆, Zhōngguó Sīchóu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the ancient art of silk production and admire exquisite silk artifacts. Hangzhou Paradise (杭州乐园, Hángzhōu Lèyuán): Have a thrilling day of fun and excitement with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Xiling Seal Engravers Society (西泠印社, Xī Líng Yìn Shè): Discover the art of seal engraving and calligraphy at this historic society and museum. Hangzhou Safari Park (杭州野生动物世界, Hángzhōu Yěshēng Dòngwù Shìjiè): Get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the world in this sprawling safari park. Hangzhou Wetland Science Museum (杭州湿地科技馆, Hángzhōu Shīdì Kējìguǎn): Learn about wetland ecosystems and environmental conservation through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

With Cyrus Janssen ...

Overview ChengDu (成都) is the capital city of SiChuan province in south-west China. Known for its spicy cuisine, relaxed lifestyle, and panda conservation centers, ChengDu offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Top Attractions Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地) - Chéngdū Dàxióngmāo Fányù Yánjiū Jīdì Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街) - Jǐnlǐ Gǔjiē Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) - Wǔhóu Cí Qingcheng Mountain (青城山) - Qīngchéng Shān Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰) - Dūjiāngyàn Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Alley) (宽窄巷子) - Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi Sichuan Opera and Face Changing Show (川剧变脸) - Chuānjù Biànliǎn Chengdu People's Park (成都人民公园) - Chéngdū Rénmín Gōngyuán Chunxi Road (春熙路) - Chūnxī Lù Song Xian Qiao Antique Market (宋庆龄故居松仙桥古玩市场) - Sòng Qìnglíng Gùjū Sōngxiānqiáo Gǔwàn Shìchǎng Wenshu Monastery (文殊院) - Wénshū Yuàn Mt. Emei (峨眉山) - Éméi Shān (Day trip from Chengdu) Dining Experiences Hot Pot (火锅) - Huǒguō Sichuan Cuisine (川菜) - Chuāncài Tea Houses (茶馆) - Cháguǎn Huangcheng Laoma (Old Master Huang's Restaurant) (黄城老妈) - Huángchéng Lǎomā Yulin Life Plaza Food Street (玉林生活广场美食街) - Yùlín Shēnghuó Guǎngchǎng Měishí Jiē Long Chaoshou Restaurant (Dragon's Wonton Restaurant) (龙抄手) - Lóng Chāoshǒu Shopping and Entertainment Chunxi Road Shopping District (春熙路购物区) - Chūnxī Lù Gòuwù Qū Taikoo Li (太古里) - Tàigǔlǐ IFS (International Finance Square) (国际金融中心) - Guójì Jīnróng Zhōngxīn Sichuan Opera and Tea Culture Show (川剧茶艺表演) - Chuānjù Cháyì Biǎoyǎn Chengdu Global Center (成都环球中心) - Chéngdū Huánqiú Zhōngxīn Chengdu IFS Ice Fountain (IFS冰雪奇缘) - IFS Bīngxuě Qíyuán Chengdu New Century Global Center (成都世纪环球中心) - Chéngdū Shìjì Huánqiú Zhōngxīn Tianfu New Area (天府新区) - Tiānfǔ Xīn Qū. Tianfu New Area is a rapidly developing region known for its modern architecture, innovative industries, and urban planning. Nightlife and Entertainment Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Alley) (宽窄巷子) - Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi Jiuyanqiao Bar Street (九眼桥酒吧街) - Jiǔyǎnqiáo Jiǔbā Jiē Lan Kwai Fong Chengdu (成都兰桂坊) - Chéngdū Lánguìfāng Heming Teahouse (Hemingway Bar) (海明茶馆) - Hǎimíng Cháguǎn Chengdu Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li (成都远洋太古里) - Chéngdū Yuǎnyáng Tàigǔlǐ Practical Tips Transportation: Use the Chengdu metro system, buses, or taxis for getting around. Language: Mandarin is the primary language; learn some basic phrases. Weather: Chengdu has a mild climate, but prepare for occasional rain, especially in summer. Currency: Use local currency (Renminbi). Panda Visits: Plan your visit to the panda base early in the morning for the best panda viewing. Respect Local Customs: Embrace the laid-back lifestyle and tea culture of Chengdu. Hidden Gems Chengdu Culture Park (成都文化公园) - Chéngdū Wénhuà Gōngyuán Chengdu Panda Asian Food Festival (成都国际熊猫美食节) - Chéngdū Guójì Xióngmāo Měishí Jié Anshun Bridge Night Market (安顺廊桥夜市) - Ānshùn Lángqiáo Yèshì Enjoy exploring Chengdu's rich culture, delicious cuisine, and the adorable giant pandas!

Home alone some evening, in a thunderstorm ? Or,,, let's go there ... The roads are so muddy, No need to go about. Come rest with me, my love; Let's blow the candles out. In the morning, we shall fly once more; Explore a distant shore. By understanding oneself, one can better connect with the world ... Bonus film ... Each night, the stars shine ... why not dance ?

The 'Scholar's Four Jewels' of China are the brush, ink stick, ink slab and paper. Discover how each is created from scratch, from thousands of years of cultural tradition ... While ink and paper are well-known Chinese inventions, so is movable block printing ...