Amazing bamboo (4) basket weaving

With Alan Watts ...

Xi'An is the provincial capital of ShaanXi, central China. August 13th 2016 : high heat alert - over 40C is seriously hot so take plenty of water (and some salty food). Xi'An is one of the oldest cities in China and was known as Chang'An prior to the Ming dynasty. Indeed, Xi'An is the oldest of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, having held this position under several of the most important dynasties in Chinese history, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, Sui and Tang. Xi'An was the eastern starting point of the ancient Silk Road trade route. Xi'An is also home to the Terracotta Warriors of Qin Shi Huang, who became China's first emperor after the Qin (dynasty: 220 to 210 BC) conquered / unified all of the other Warring States. Rather than maintain the title of 'king' borne by the previous Shang and Zhou rulers, he created the title of 'emperor' (皇帝, HuángDì), which would continue to be borne by Chinese rulers for the next two millennia.

With Silberventures ...

A film by kinabaloo.com and BeijingBuzzz.com ...

With DianXi XiaoGe ... Bonus film - wasabi ... Bonus film - cherries ... Bonus film - taro flowers ...

Original posting - December 2014. Starting with 'Now you're in Beijing (commie jungle mix)', music video. Plus Beijing's popular attractions, a trip to the blue sky city, QianHai Lake (in central Beijing), the BeiJing to ShangHai sleeper train, and The Forbidden City (documentary; in English) bonus films ... 'Now you're in Beijing ...' - think about it - you're in Beijing, China - it might be different but that is here and not there; sure some things could be better - such as rights and protections for migrant workers, but Rome wasn't built in a day, as they say. A few words on the Hu JinTao / Wen JiaBao era - definately one of China's most successful jumps forward; a major rise in prosperity for all, the growth of great infrastructure, such as the high-speed rail system, and much more, the Beijing Olympics, the Shanghai World Expo, space exploration, and the list goes on ... A happy retirement to two leaders who helped guide China back to greatness ! Mao ZeDong unified the country and helped defeat the Japanese invaders, and for that is a national hero. But things didn't go so well subsequently and on his death the 'Gang of Four' were arrested and China took a new path, though slowly at first following the courageous efforts of Deng XiaoPing. But it was not until circa 1990 that China really began to take off. So its rise to greatness, once more, is remarkable for having been achieved, from so little, in just 25 years. Obviously, they have done most things very right.

With Pandaland Villager ... Visitor Guide to ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, SuZhou Overview ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, located in SuZhou, JiangSu Province, are renowned for their picturesque beauty and historical significance. Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," ShanTang Street is a perfect blend of traditional Chinese architecture, serene waterways, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination. Historical Background of ShanTang River ShanTang River, also known as the "Seven-Li Shantang," was originally constructed in 825 AD during the Tang Dynasty. The construction was overseen by Bai Juyi, a renowned poet and the then governor of SuZhou. The canal was built to connect SuZhou city with HuQiu (Tiger Hill), facilitating trade and transportation while providing a scenic route for travelers. The project was an ambitious undertaking aimed at promoting economic development and improving water management in the region. The construction of the canal also helped to control flooding and provided a reliable source of water for irrigation, which was crucial for local agriculture. Over the centuries, ShanTang River became a vital artery for the transportation of goods and people. It also served as a cultural hub, with the development of markets, temples, and residential areas along its banks. The river and the adjacent ShanTang Street became synonymous with prosperity and cultural richness, attracting scholars, merchants, and artists who contributed to the flourishing of SuZhou. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is SuZhou Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX), located about 40 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach ShanTang Street. By Train: SuZhou Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like Shanghai, HangZhou, and Nanjing. From the station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach ShanTang Street. By Bus: SuZhou is well-served by long-distance buses from nearby cities. The main bus station in SuZhou is SuZhou North Bus Station, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to ShanTang Street. Getting Around Walking: The best way to explore ShanTang Street is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the historical buildings, quaint shops, and beautiful scenery. Boating: Taking a boat ride along the ShanTang River offers a unique perspective of the ancient town and its waterways. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of SuZhou. Main Attractions ShanTang Street This ancient street, with a history of over 1,100 years, stretches for about 3.5 kilometers along the ShanTang River. It is lined with well-preserved traditional buildings, charming shops, tea houses, and restaurants, offering a delightful walking experience. ShanTang River The ShanTang River is a scenic waterway that flows through the heart of the town. Boat rides along the river provide a tranquil and picturesque journey, showcasing the town's beautiful bridges, ancient buildings, and lush gardens. Pingjiang Road Located nearby, Pingjiang Road is another historic street that complements your visit to ShanTang Street. Known for its classical SuZhou gardens, traditional houses, and cultural sites, it offers a deeper understanding of SuZhou's rich heritage. Baosheng Temple Baosheng Temple, located along ShanTang Street, is a historic Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and serene gardens. It provides a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the town's religious heritage. Tiger Hill Just a short distance from ShanTang Street, Tiger Hill is a popular tourist attraction known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and the iconic Yunyan Pagoda, often referred to as the "Leaning Tower of China." Local Cuisine SuZhou's cuisine is known for its delicate flavors and emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes: Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish: A signature dish of SuZhou, featuring fresh fish cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce. Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish: A beautifully presented dish with a crispy exterior and tender meat, often served with a sweet and sour sauce. SuZhou Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles served in a rich broth with various toppings, including pork, shrimp, and vegetables. Local Pastries: Try the traditional SuZhou-style mooncakes and other pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Shopping Local Handicrafts: ShanTang Street is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including silk products, embroidery, and paper-cutting. These items make for unique souvenirs. Antique Shops: Explore local antique shops for historical artifacts, vintage items, and collectibles. Tea Houses: Purchase high-quality Chinese tea from the local tea houses along ShanTang Street. Accommodation Traditional Inns: For an authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional inn or guesthouse, which often feature historical architecture and local decor. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the SuZhou Garden Hotel and local boutique hotels provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the SuZhou Marriott Hotel or the SuZhou Jinji Lake Grand Hotel, both offering excellent amenities and service. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit ShanTang Street are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: ShanTang Street is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, with their rich history, traditional architecture, and picturesque scenery, offer a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, savoring local cuisine, or taking a serene boat ride along the river, ShanTang provides an unforgettable glimpse into SuZhou's past. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this charming destination in JiangSu Province.

With Beautiful China ... XiaSi Ancient Town - Dong Village Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of XiaSi Ancient Town XiaSi Ancient Town, located in the Dong Village of GuiZhou Province, is a historic town that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Dong ethnic group. With a history dating back over 800 years, XiaSi is renowned for its traditional Dong architecture, unique drum towers, and wind and rain bridges. The town's preservation of ancient customs and traditions provides a living snapshot of Dong culture that has been passed down through generations. Top Attractions in XiaSi Ancient Town 1. Drum Tower The Drum Tower is the symbol of the Dong people and serves as the heart of the village. It is a traditional wooden structure used for gatherings and ceremonies. The intricate carvings and unique architecture make it a must-see. 2. Wind and Rain Bridge The Wind and Rain Bridge, also known as the Flower Bridge, is an iconic piece of Dong architecture. It serves not only as a bridge but also as a place for villagers to rest and socialize, sheltered from the elements. 3. Dong Opera Stage The open-air Dong Opera Stage is a cultural gem where traditional Dong performances are held. Visitors can experience the rich storytelling and music that characterize Dong opera. 4. Dong Residential Houses Stroll through the village to see the traditional stilted wooden houses of the Dong people. These homes are built using ancient techniques and showcase the unique architectural style of the Dong community. Activities to Enjoy 1. Participate in a Dong Dance Join the locals in a traditional Dong dance. The Dong people are known for their vibrant dance and music, often performed in the village square or around the Drum Tower. 2. Explore Local Handicrafts Visit local workshops to see artisans creating traditional Dong handicrafts, including embroidery, silver jewelry, and wooden carvings. You can also purchase these items as souvenirs. 3. Attend a Dong Wedding Ceremony If you're lucky, you might witness a traditional Dong wedding ceremony. These ceremonies are colorful and vibrant, featuring music, dance, and traditional rituals. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Dong Rice Wine Dong rice wine is a traditional beverage made from glutinous rice. It has a sweet flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. 2. Sour Fish Soup This is a popular dish among the Dong people, made with fresh fish, pickled vegetables, and spices. The soup has a distinctive sour and spicy flavor. 3. Glutinous Rice Cakes Glutinous rice cakes are a traditional snack in Dong cuisine. They are often filled with sweet or savory ingredients and steamed to perfection. How to Get There By Bus From Guiyang, the capital of GuiZhou, you can take a long-distance bus to Liping County, followed by a local bus to XiaSi. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours. By Train Take a train to Kaili, a nearby city in GuiZhou. From Kaili, buses are available to Liping County and then to XiaSi Ancient Town. By Car If you prefer driving, renting a car from Guiyang or Kaili is an option. The roads to XiaSi are scenic but can be narrow and winding, so drive with caution. Travel Tips for XiaSi Ancient Town Learn a few basic phrases in the Dong language to connect better with locals. They appreciate the effort! Respect local customs and traditions, especially during ceremonies and cultural events. Bring comfortable walking shoes as you will be exploring on foot, often on uneven paths. Plan your visit during one of the Dong festivals, such as the Dong New Year, to experience the vibrant local culture.