Backpacking China trip

Chinese students are increasingly, and rightly so, avoiding studying in the West, where standards are declining, fees are extremely high, healthcare is either appalling or extremely expensive, the cities and towns are dingy and filled with homeless people and violence, the accommodation is dreadful and the food even worse; and where dangers abound. In contrast, Chinese universities are the far better choice. Besides, why fund countries that see China as an adversary, where Chinese products are banned and the media is increasingly hostile, and you could be labelled a spy ? Don't waste the 'best years of your life' ! YT comments : "I’m from Canada and I would never send my kids to study on the US. It’s just not safe. The quality of US education is declining. I’d rather send my kids to school in China than US." "The university in the West has very little to offer other than the English language. Chinese technology is more advanced, and Chinese students get better jobs after finishing Chinese university." "Let's be realistic. Where can you learn the AI best? China. Where can you learn quantum computer? China. Where can you learn best about rocket engines and space science? China landed a rover on the moon several times. Where can you learn chemistry and micro biology? China. Do you name anything? China has more advanced technology. Chinese students learn and speak English in China, so why pay high tuition to learn English outside?"

One missile - 16 people died, to silence truth. Michael Hudson on how human rights have been privatized / commercialized (monetized) in the US ...

Wine from wild Rosa Laevigata.

With Middle Kingdom Productions ...

From the awesome 2016 animated movie Big Fish and Begonia, directed by Liang Xuan and Zhang Chun, produced by Chinese studio B&T (Breath & Touch) in BeiJing - get it on DVD or at Netflix. An English language cover by AirahTea ... Writer : Zhou Shen 周深 海浪无声将夜幕深深淹没 The waves silently drown out the falling of night 漫过天尽头的角落 Drifting to the outermost corner of the sky 大鱼在梦境的缝隙里游过 The big fish swims amongst the nooks and crannies of a dream world 凝望你沉睡的轮廓 Gazing Longingly at your sleeping figure 看天一色听风起雨落 Look at the sea and sky, listen to the wind and rain 执子手吹散苍茫茫烟波 Grasping your hand, the vast mist slowly disperses 大鱼的翅膀已经太辽阔 But the wings of the fish are already too vast 我松开时间绳索 I have no choice but to release the rope of time 怕你飞远去 I'm afraid you'll fly away 怕你离我而去 Fly very far away from me 更怕你永远停留在这里 Even more than that, I'm afraid you'll never leave this place 每一滴泪水都向你流淌去 Every tear I shed always flows back to you 倒流进天空的海底 Flowing backwards in time from the sky to the sea 海浪无声将夜幕深深淹没 The waves silently drown out the falling of night 漫过天空尽头的角落 Drifting to the outermost corner of the sky 大鱼在梦境的缝隙里游过 The big fish swims amongst the nooks and crannies of a dream world 凝望你沉睡的轮廓 Gazing Longingly at your sleeping figure 看海天一色听风起雨落 Look at the sea and sky, listen to the wind and rain 执子手吹散苍茫茫烟波 Grasping your hand, the vast mist slowly disperses 大鱼的翅膀已经太辽阔 But the wings of the fish are already too vast 我松开时间的绳索 I have no choice but to release the rope of time 看你飞远去 I watch you fly away from me 看你离我而去 Fly very far away from me 原来你生来就属于天际 It seems you belong to the stars and the skies 每一滴泪水都向你流淌去 Every tear I shed always flows back to you 倒流回最初的相遇 Flowing back in time to the very first moment I saw you 倒流回最初的相遇 Flowing back in time to the very first moment I saw you AirahTea's translation : As the night begins, the sea takes quietly All the silent darkness of the sky. In my dream I see the fish swim gracefully, Gone as soon the sun begins to rise. Hear the rising wind. See the falling rain. Take my hand and I'll wash away the pain. Spread your wings, my dear. Don't be scared to grow. It is time for me to let you go. I am scared to see you fly far from me. But I fear even more if you stay here. All the pain I feel, every tear that I cry Flows reversed from the sea to the sky. As the night begins, the sea takes quietly All the silent darkness of the sky. In my dream I see the fish swim gracefully, Gone as soon the sun begins to rise. Hear the rising wind. See the falling rain. Take my hand and I'll wash away the pain. Spread your wings, my dear. Don't be scared to grow. It is time for me to let you go. As I see you fly, leaving me here behind. I could see, you were never mine to keep. All the pain I feel, every tear that I cry Flows reversed to when we said goodbye.

Day Trips from ShangHai, China Suzhou 苏州 (Sūzhōu): Explore the "Venice of the East" known for its classical gardens, ancient canals, and traditional architecture. Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, stroll along Pingjiang Road, and take a boat ride on the Grand Canal. Hangzhou 杭州 (Hángzhōu): Discover the scenic beauty of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by lush hills and ancient temples. Visit the Lingyin Temple, explore the Six Harmonies Pagoda, and enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the lake. Nanjing 南京 (Nánjīng): Explore the historic capital of China known for its ancient city walls, imperial palaces, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, walk along the Qinhuai River, and climb to the top of the Nanjing City Wall for panoramic views. Wuzhen 乌镇 (Wūzhèn): Step back in time in this ancient water town known for its well-preserved architecture, stone bridges, and tranquil canals. Explore the East and West Scenic Areas, visit the Folk Custom Museum, and take a boat ride along the waterways. Shaoxing 绍兴 (Shàoxīng): Experience the cultural heritage of this historic city famous for its ancient canals, traditional wooden houses, and rice wine. Visit the Lu Xun Former Residence, explore the Keyan Scenic Area, and sample local specialties such as stinky tofu and fermented rice wine. Huangshan 黄山 (Huángshān): Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Yellow Mountain, known for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and mystical beauty. Hike along scenic trails, watch the sunrise from the summit, and marvel at the sea of clouds. Shaoxing 绍兴 (Shàoxīng): Explore the ancient water town of Wuzhen, known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, stone bridges, and tranquil canals. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit historic residences and workshops, and enjoy a boat ride along the waterways. Nanjing 南京 (Nánjīng): Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Nanjing, the ancient capital of China. Visit the Nanjing City Wall, explore the Confucius Temple area, and stroll along the banks of the Qinhuai River. Hangzhou 杭州 (Hángzhōu): Relax in the scenic beauty of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its serene landscapes and historic sites. Take a leisurely boat cruise, visit Lingyin Temple, and explore the picturesque pagodas and gardens. Suzhou 苏州 (Sūzhōu): Explore the classical gardens and ancient water towns of Suzhou, known for their tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Master of the Nets Garden, take a boat ride along the Grand Canal, and stroll through the historic streets of Pingjiang Road. Zhouzhuang 周庄 (Zhōuzhuāng): Experience the charm of Zhouzhuang, one of China's most famous water towns, with its picturesque canals, historic bridges, and traditional architecture. Visit the Twin Bridges, explore the Shen's Residence, and take a boat ride through the scenic waterways. Wuxi 无锡 (Wúxī): Discover the beauty of Taihu Lake, one of China's largest freshwater lakes, surrounded by lush hills and scenic gardens. Visit the Lingshan Grand Buddha, explore the Xihui Park, and enjoy a boat cruise on the lake. Ningbo 宁波 (Níngbō): Explore the historic port city of Ningbo, known for its ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Tianyi Pavilion, stroll along the Moon Lake, and sample local delicacies at the bustling food markets. Shanghai Disney Resort 上海迪士尼度假区 (Shànghǎi Díshìní Dùjià Qū): Enjoy a day of fun and adventure at Shanghai Disney Resort, featuring thrilling rides, live shows, and iconic Disney characters. Explore the Magic Kingdom, visit the Enchanted Storybook Castle, and watch the spectacular fireworks display. Qibao Seven Treasures 七宝老街 (Qībǎo Lǎojiē): Step back in time in the ancient water town of Qibao, known for its historic buildings, traditional markets, and scenic canals. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the Temple of the Town God, and sample local street food such as sticky rice cakes and deep-fried dough sticks. Huzhou 湖州 (Húzhōu): Relax in the picturesque scenery of Taihu Lake, known for its serene landscapes and historic sites. Visit the Feiying Pagoda, explore the Nanxun Ancient Town, and take a boat cruise on the tranquil waters of the lake. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium 上海海洋水族馆 (Shànghǎi Hǎiyáng Shuǐzúguǎn): Explore the underwater world at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, home to thousands of marine species from around the globe. Marvel at the colorful coral reefs, watch sharks swim overhead in the underwater tunnel, and learn about marine conservation efforts. Chongming Island 崇明岛 (Chóngmíng Dǎo): Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the natural beauty of Chongming Island, the largest alluvial island in the Yangtze River. Visit Dongping National Forest Park, cycle along scenic trails, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. Tongli 同里 (Tónglǐ): Discover the charm of Tongli, a picturesque water town known for its ancient bridges, tranquil canals, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visit the Retreat and Reflection Garden, explore the Chongben Hall, and take a boat ride along the scenic waterways. Moganshan 莫干山 (Mògānshān): Retreat to the scenic beauty of Moganshan, a mountain resort known for its bamboo forests, tea plantations, and cool mountain breezes. Hike along scenic trails, visit historic villas, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

With China Road Tales ... The Stone Village of the NaXi people, located in YunNan Province, China, is a remarkable destination that offers a unique glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, culture, and architecture of the NaXi ethnic minority. Here’s a detailed look at this fascinating village: ### Location and Overview - **Location**: The Stone Village, also known as ShiZhiShu Village, is situated in the YuLong Naxi Autonomous County in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province, near the town of Lijiang. - **Geography**: Nestled in the foothills of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (YuLong XueShan), the village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including rugged mountains, lush forests, and clear streams. ### NaXi Culture and Heritage - **Ethnic Group**: The NaXi people are one of China’s 56 recognized ethnic groups, with a rich cultural heritage that blends elements of Han Chinese, Tibetan, and other neighboring cultures. - **Language**: The NaXi language, belonging to the Sino-Tibetan language family, is still spoken by many villagers. The NaXi also have a unique pictographic script called Dongba, used primarily for religious texts. - **Matriarchal Society**: Historically, the NaXi society was matrilineal, with property and family names passed down through the female line. ### Architecture - **Stone Houses**: The village is renowned for its traditional stone houses, built using local materials such as stone, wood, and mud. These houses are designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment and are known for their durability and unique aesthetic. - **Courtyards**: Many homes are built around central courtyards, which serve as communal spaces for family activities and social gatherings. - **Wooden Carvings**: Intricate wooden carvings and decorations adorn the houses, showcasing the NaXi’s craftsmanship and artistic traditions. ### Traditional Lifestyles - **Agriculture**: The NaXi people in the Stone Village primarily engage in agriculture, cultivating crops such as barley, wheat, and vegetables. They also raise livestock, including pigs, chickens, and yaks. - **Traditional Dress**: The NaXi have distinctive traditional clothing, often featuring bright colors and intricate embroidery. Women’s attire includes long gowns with wide belts and colorful headscarves, while men typically wear tunics and trousers. - **Festivals and Rituals**: The NaXi people celebrate various traditional festivals, such as the Torch Festival and the Sanduo Festival, which are marked by music, dance, and religious ceremonies. ### Dongba Religion - **Animism and Shamanism**: The NaXi practice Dongba religion, an animistic belief system that involves worshiping nature spirits and ancestors. Dongba priests, who are also scholars, play a central role in religious rituals and the preservation of cultural heritage. - **Dongba Texts**: These religious texts are written in the unique Dongba script, a pictographic writing system that dates back over a thousand years. ### Tourism and Preservation - **Cultural Tourism**: The Stone Village has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the traditional lifestyle and culture of the NaXi people. Visitors can explore the village, interact with locals, and learn about their customs and traditions. - **Preservation Efforts**: There are ongoing efforts to preserve the unique architecture and cultural heritage of the Stone Village. Local and regional governments, along with cultural organizations, are working to protect the village from modern development and ensure the continuation of NaXi traditions. ### Nearby Attractions - **Lijiang Ancient Town**: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and vibrant NaXi culture. It is a short drive from the Stone Village and offers additional cultural experiences. - **Jade Dragon Snow Mountain**: This majestic mountain range provides opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying spectacular natural scenery. ### Conclusion The Stone Village of the NaXi people in Yunnan Province is a captivating destination that offers an authentic glimpse into the traditional life and culture of one of China’s most unique ethnic groups. With its distinctive stone architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings, the Stone Village provides a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit.