A look back at the China Spring Festival Gala …

A quick look back to the Chinese New Year (CNY) in previous years ...

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Plus, Na Ying - '(Life is like a) Warm Spring with Blooming Flowers' 春暖花开 (when I am with you) ...

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And Wang Feng - 'I love you, China' 我爱你中国 (Wo Ai Ni, Zhong Guo) ...

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Chinese New Year (CNY), also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China, marking the beginning of the lunar new year. It is celebrated by Chinese communities around the world, as well as in other East Asian countries such as Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia. Here's an overview of Chinese New Year and its traditions:

Timing and Duration:
Lunar Calendar: Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar, with the date falling between late January and mid-February each year. The exact date varies because it is based on the lunar phases.

Festival Period: The celebrations typically last for 15 days, beginning on the eve of Chinese New Year and ending with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the lunar calendar.

Traditions and Customs:
Family Reunions: Chinese New Year is a time for families to come together and celebrate. Many people travel long distances to reunite with their relatives, leading to the largest annual human migration in the world, known as Chunyun.

Cleaning and Decoration: In the days leading up to Chinese New Year, families clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune. They also decorate their homes with red lanterns, couplets (duilian), and paper cutouts featuring auspicious symbols.

Chinese New Year's Eve Dinner: The New Year's Eve dinner, known as 'reunion dinner' (??? tu�nni�nf�n), is a lavish feast shared with family members. Traditional dishes include fish (symbolizing prosperity), dumplings (symbolizing wealth), and various other symbolic foods.

Red Envelopes (Hongbao): Red envelopes containing money are given as gifts during Chinese New Year, especially to children and unmarried individuals. The red color symbolizes good luck and wards off evil spirits.

Fireworks and Firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are set off at midnight on New Year's Eve and throughout the festival period to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.

Lion and Dragon Dances: Colorful lion and dragon dances are performed in streets, parks, and public squares to bring prosperity and good fortune to communities.

Zodiac Animals:
Each Year is Associated with an Animal: Chinese New Year is symbolized by one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac cycle. Each animal is believed to influence the personality traits and destiny of individuals born in that year.

Travel and Celebrations:
Spring Festival Gala: The Spring Festival Gala, broadcasted on Chinese television on New Year's Eve, features a variety of performances, skits, and musical acts. It is one of the most-watched television programs in the world.

Temple Fairs: Traditional temple fairs are held throughout China during Chinese New Year, offering food stalls, performances, games, and cultural activities for visitors to enjoy.

Chinese New Year is a time of joy, reunion, and renewal, filled with rich traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. It is a celebration of family, community, and the arrival of spring, marking a fresh beginning and the promise of prosperity in the year ahead.

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With Seiu Travel ... Introduction to ShenYang ShenYang is the capital city of LiaoNing province in northeast China. It is a major industrial and cultural center with a rich history dating back to ancient times. Known for its historical sites, modern infrastructure, and vibrant culture, Shenyang offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. Getting There By Air: Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE) serves the city with domestic and international flights. The airport is about 20 km south of the city center. By Train: Shenyang has several major railway stations, including Shenyang North Railway Station and Shenyang Railway Station, offering high-speed rail connections to many cities in China. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Shenyang with other major cities in northeast China and beyond. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Shenyang is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Main Attractions Shenyang Imperial Palace: Also known as Mukden Palace, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a smaller version of Beijing's Forbidden City and was the former imperial palace of the early Qing Dynasty. Zhao Mausoleum (Beiling Park): The mausoleum of the second Qing emperor, Huang Taiji, located within a beautiful park that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Marshal Zhang's Mansion: The former residence of the warlord Zhang Zuolin and his son Zhang Xueliang, now a museum showcasing their lives and the history of the period. Shenyang Botanical Garden: A large botanical garden with diverse plant species, beautiful landscapes, and recreational facilities. 9.18 Historical Museum: A museum dedicated to the Mukden Incident (September 18, 1931) and the subsequent Japanese invasion of China, offering a poignant look at this period of history. Cultural Highlights Liaoning Provincial Museum: One of the oldest and largest museums in China, featuring extensive collections of artifacts, artworks, and historical exhibits. Shenyang Opera House: A modern venue hosting a variety of performances, including traditional Chinese opera, ballet, and concerts. Shenyang International Horticultural Expo Garden: A vast park with themed gardens, exhibitions, and cultural events, showcasing horticultural achievements from around the world. Accommodation Shenyang offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some recommended places to stay include: Kempinski Hotel Shenyang: A luxury hotel with excellent facilities and service, located in the city center. Marriott Hotel Shenyang: A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and convenient access to major attractions. Shenyang LazyBee International Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly option popular with backpackers and young travelers. Dining Local Cuisine: Shenyang is known for its delicious Dongbei (Northeast) cuisine. Must-try dishes include Guo Bao Rou (sweet and sour pork), Dongbei Dumplings, and Laobian Dumplings. Restaurants: Recommended eateries include Laobian Dumpling Restaurant, Mukden Dumpling House, and Dongbei Ren (Northeasterners). Practical Tips Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language spoken in Shenyang. Learning a few basic phrases can be helpful, and a translation app can be useful for non-Mandarin speakers. Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases. Health and Safety: Shenyang is generally a safe city, but it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. Tap water is not recommended for drinking; opt for bottled water instead. Transportation: Shenyang has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and a metro system, making it easy to get around the city. Conclusion Shenyang is a vibrant city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring ancient palaces, enjoying local cuisine, or experiencing the city's modern attractions, Shenyang offers a diverse and memorable travel experience.

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