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With Roaming N Watching ... With Fyfy & Nyny ... QiBao Ancient Town visitor guide Overview QiBao Ancient Town, located in the MinHang district of ShangHai, is a picturesque water town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, historical sites, and traditional culture. The name "QiBao" means "Seven Treasures," and the town is famous for its seven historic treasures, though only a few remain today. QiBao offers visitors a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage and a chance to experience traditional JiangNan water town scenery. History QiBao Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years to the Northern Song Dynasty. It flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties as a prosperous commercial hub. Today, QiBao retains much of its historical charm, with well-preserved buildings, stone bridges, and narrow canals that transport visitors back in time. Main Attractions QiBao Temple QiBao Temple is a significant religious and cultural site in the town. Originally built during the Song Dynasty, the temple has undergone several restorations. It is an important place of worship and a symbol of the town's spiritual heritage. QiBao Old Street QiBao Old Street is the heart of the ancient town, lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and food stalls. The street is divided into North Street and South Street, each offering unique experiences and local delicacies. QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum The QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum showcases the traditional Chinese art of shadow puppetry. Visitors can learn about the history of shadow plays, watch live performances, and even try their hand at manipulating the puppets. QiBao Zhuzhai (Old Residences) QiBao Zhuzhai are ancient residential buildings that offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of QiBao's inhabitants. These well-preserved houses reflect the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties and provide insight into the daily lives of ancient Chinese families. Culture and Traditions QiBao Ancient Town is a cultural gem that showcases traditional JiangNan water town culture. The town is known for its traditional crafts, local cuisine, and cultural performances. Visitors can explore the various workshops and studios where artisans create silk, paper-cuts, and other traditional handicrafts. Activities and Experiences Boat Rides One of the best ways to experience QiBao Ancient Town is by taking a boat ride along its narrow canals. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the town's architecture and serene waterways, providing a peaceful and scenic experience. Food Tasting QiBao is renowned for its local delicacies, including QiBao rice cakes, braised pork, and stinky tofu. The food stalls and restaurants along QiBao Old Street offer a wide variety of traditional snacks and dishes that are a must-try for visitors. Cultural Performances Visitors to QiBao can enjoy various cultural performances, including traditional Chinese opera, shadow plays, and folk music. These performances are often held in public squares and cultural centers, providing an authentic cultural experience. Accommodation QiBao Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides an immersive experience and a chance to enjoy the town's charm after the day-trippers have left. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit QiBao Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting There: QiBao Ancient Town is located about 18 kilometers from ShangHai city center. It is accessible by metro (Line 9, QiBao Station) or by taxi. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Entrance Fees: There is no entrance fee for the town itself, but some attractions and museums within the town may charge a small fee. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the town's streets are paved with cobblestones and can be uneven. Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and cultural sites, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

With Einar Tangen, CGTN ...

Top 20 Places to Visit in and Around Xiamen: Gulangyu Island (鼓浪屿, Gǔlàngyǔ): Explore the car-free island known for its colonial architecture, beaches, and scenic views. Xiamen University (厦门大学, Xiàmén Dàxué): Visit the beautiful campus known for its traditional Chinese-style architecture and scenic surroundings. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street (中山路步行街, Zhōngshān Lù Bùxíng Jiē): Shop, dine, and experience local culture on this bustling pedestrian street. Hulishan Fortress (胡里山炮台, Húlǐshān Pàotái): Explore this historic fortress built in the late Qing dynasty, featuring cannons and panoramic views of the sea. Nanputuo Temple (南普陀寺, Nánpǔtuó Sì): Visit this Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Xiamen Botanical Garden (厦门植物园, Xiàmén Zhíwùyuán): Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this expansive botanical garden featuring a wide variety of plant species. Guanyin Mountain (观音山, Guānyīn Shān): Hike or take a cable car to the top of this scenic mountain for panoramic views of Xiamen and the surrounding area. Gaoji Causeway (高崎大道, Gāojī Dàdào): Take a scenic drive or bike ride along this picturesque causeway connecting Xiamen Island to the mainland. Xiamen Science and Technology Museum (厦门科技馆, Xiàmén Kējìguǎn): Explore interactive exhibits on science, technology, and innovation at this family-friendly museum. Huangcuo Beach (黄厝海滩, Huángcuò Hǎitān): Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy water sports at this popular beach destination. Xiamen International Conference and Exhibition Center (厦门国际会展中心, Xiàmén Guójì Huìzhǎn Zhōngxīn): Attend events, trade shows, and exhibitions at this modern convention center. Wanshi Botanical Garden (万石植物园, Wànshí Zhíwùyuán): Discover diverse plant species and enjoy scenic walking trails at this botanical garden. Xiamen Piano Museum (厦门钢琴博物馆, Xiàmén Gāngqín Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and craftsmanship of pianos at this unique museum. Xiamen Twin Towers (厦门双子塔, Xiàmén Shuāngzǐtǎ): Admire the modern architecture and panoramic views from the observation deck of these iconic twin towers. Huandao Road (环岛路, Huándǎo Lù): Take a scenic drive or bike ride along this coastal road encircling Xiamen Island, offering stunning views of the sea and skyline. Xiamen Gulangyu Museum (厦门鼓浪屿博物馆, Xiàmén Gǔlàngyǔ Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of Gulangyu Island at this informative museum. Hai Tian Tang Gou (海天堂购, Hǎi Tiān Táng Gòu): Shop for souvenirs, local products, and snacks at this bustling shopping street. Gu Lang Yu Organ Museum (鼓浪屿风琴博物馆, Gǔlàngyǔ Fēngqín Bówùguǎn): Explore a unique collection of organs and musical instruments at this museum. Xiamen Science and Technology Museum (厦门科技馆, Xiàmén Kējìguǎn): Engage in hands-on learning and interactive exhibits at this educational museum. Wuyuan Bay Wetland Park (五缘湾湿地公园, Wǔyuán Wān Shīdì Gōngyuán): Enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and scenic views of wetland ecosystems at this peaceful park.

"We are a family of four from the USA that recently moved to China for a couple of years for work. We would like to use this channel to share with you our experiences and adventures that encounter along the way. Enjoy!"

A liitle jet-lagged, our travelers spend a day in Beijing before setting off for other parts of China. Places visited : Tian'AnMen Square, the Forbidden City (Palace Museum) plus JingShan and BeiHai parks, all within easy walking distance of each other. Then it is on to DeShengMen to take the bus to BaDaLing Great Wall of China (one can also take a train from Beijing North railway station, near XiZhiMen). Welcome to the blue sky city ...