Beautiful bamboo rafting on the YuLong River 遇龙河

With EpicGlobe Walks .. Huangyao Ancient Town Huangyao Ancient Town, GuangXi province, is a well-preserved historic town known for its ancient architecture, cobblestone streets, and serene environment. Here’s a detailed guide to everything you need to know about this hidden gem. History and Background Huangyao Ancient Town has a history dating back over 1,000 years, with its origins traced to the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD). It flourished during the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties as a bustling commercial hub due to its strategic location along trade routes. The town was named after the dominant Huang and Yao families who settled here. Unlike many other ancient towns in China, Huangyao has retained much of its original charm, avoiding over-commercialization. Architecture and Layout The town is a living museum of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, with over 300 well-preserved ancient buildings. Key architectural features include: Black Tiles and White Walls: Traditional southern Chinese-style buildings with black-tiled roofs and whitewashed walls. Cobblestone Streets: The narrow, winding streets are paved with smooth cobblestones, polished by centuries of foot traffic. Courtyard Houses: Many homes feature central courtyards, reflecting traditional Chinese family life. Ancient Bridges: Stone bridges, such as the Dai Long Bridge, connect different parts of the town and add to its picturesque charm. Main Attractions Here’s a detailed look at the must-see spots in Huangyao: 1. Dai Long Bridge (带龙桥) A stunning ancient stone bridge that spans the Peacock River. Offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise or sunset when the water reflects the surrounding karst mountains. A popular spot for photography and quiet contemplation. 2. Ancient Banyan Trees Huangyao is home to several ancient banyan trees, some over 1,000 years old. The most famous is the "Couple Tree", where two banyan trees have grown intertwined, symbolizing love and unity. 3. Baozi Mountain (宝珠山) A small hill located in the center of the town, offering panoramic views of Huangyao and its surroundings. At the top, you’ll find the Baozi Mountain Temple, a quiet place for reflection. 4. Ancestral Halls and Temples Huang Family Ancestral Hall: A well-preserved hall showcasing the history and achievements of the Huang family. Ouyang Temple: Dedicated to the Ouyang family, another prominent clan in the town. Guanyin Temple: A small temple dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. 5. Peacock River (孔雀河) The river winds through the town, lined with ancient buildings and lush greenery. Visitors can take a bamboo raft ride to enjoy the serene scenery. 6. Ancient Theater Stage A historic stage where traditional operas and performances were held during festivals. The intricate carvings and decorations on the stage are a testament to the town’s cultural heritage. 7. Stone Tablet Inscriptions Scattered throughout the town, these inscriptions provide insights into Huangyao’s history and the lives of its inhabitants. Cultural Experiences Huangyao is not just about sightseeing; it’s also a place to immerse yourself in local culture: Traditional Festivals: If you visit during Chinese New Year or the Lantern Festival, you’ll witness lively celebrations with dragon dances, lantern displays, and traditional music. Local Handicrafts: The town is known for its handmade soy sauce and fermented bean paste, which you can watch being made in small workshops. You can also find locally crafted bamboo products and embroidery. Folk Performances: Occasional performances of Guangxi opera and folk songs are held in the ancient theater. Local Cuisine Huangyao’s food is simple yet flavorful, reflecting the town’s rural roots. Must-try dishes include: Huangyao Tofu Pudding (黄姚豆腐脑): A soft, silky tofu dish served with soy sauce, chili, and peanuts. Huangyao Rice Noodles (黄姚米粉): A hearty bowl of rice noodles topped with braised pork, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Stuffed Glutinous Rice Balls (酿糯米球): A local specialty made with glutinous rice and filled with meat or vegetables. Fermented Bean Paste (豆豉): A savory condiment made from fermented soybeans, often used to flavor dishes. Best Time to Visit Spring (March–May): Mild weather and blooming flowers make this an ideal time to visit. Autumn (September–November): Cool and comfortable, with clear skies and vibrant foliage. Avoid Summer (June–August): The weather can be hot and humid, and the town may attract more tourists. How to Get There Huangyao is located about 200 kilometers from Guilin and 120 kilometers from Yangshuo. Here’s how to reach the town: From Guilin: Take a bus from Guilin Bus Station to Huangyao (approx. 3–4 hours). Alternatively, hire a private car or join a guided tour. From Yangshuo: Buses and private transfers are available, taking around 2–3 hours. Where to Stay Huangyao offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels. Staying overnight is highly recommended to experience the town’s peaceful atmosphere after the day-trippers leave. Options include: Traditional Guesthouses: Stay in a restored ancient building for an authentic experience. Boutique Hotels: Some hotels offer modern amenities while maintaining traditional aesthetics. Travel Tips Wear Comfortable Shoes: The cobblestone streets can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. Cash is King: Many small shops and vendors may not accept credit cards, so carry some cash. Respect Local Customs: Huangyao is a living community, so be mindful of residents’ privacy and traditions. Explore Early or Late: To avoid crowds, explore the town early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Learn Basic Chinese: While some locals may speak basic English, knowing a few Mandarin phrases can enhance your experience. Why Visit Huangyao? Huangyao Ancient Town is a perfect destination for travelers seeking: A glimpse into authentic rural Chinese life. Stunning natural scenery combined with historic architecture. A peaceful and less touristy alternative to more famous ancient towns like Lijiang or Fenghuang. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil retreat, Huangyao Ancient Town promises an unforgettable experience.

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印象桂林 GuangXi province, south China. Awesome, beautiful landscapes and culture ... Amazing CGI.

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Huangshan, also known as the Yellow Mountains, is a renowned mountain range in southern Anhui Province. Famous for its stunning granite peaks, ancient pine trees, hot springs, and the mystical sea of clouds, Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for tourists and photographers. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Huangshan. Top Attractions The Five Peaks of Huangshan Huangshan features several notable peaks, each offering unique scenery and experiences: Lotus Peak (Lianhua Peak): The highest peak at 1,864 meters, providing panoramic views and a challenging climb. Bright Summit (Guangming Ding): Known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Celestial Capital Peak (Tiandu Peak): Famous for its steep, narrow paths and stunning vistas. Purple Cloud Peak (Ziyun Peak): Offers a unique perspective of the mountain range. Beginning-to-Believe Peak (Shixin Peak): Known for its dense pine trees and excellent viewpoints. Sea of Clouds The Sea of Clouds is one of Huangshan's most spectacular phenomena. This natural wonder occurs when fog envelops the valleys and lower peaks, leaving the higher peaks to appear as islands floating in a white sea. Hot Springs The hot springs at the foot of Huangshan are famous for their therapeutic properties. The springs have been a popular attraction for centuries and provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of hiking. Pine Trees The ancient pine trees of Huangshan are known for their unique shapes and resilience, often growing out of rocky crevices. The most famous of these is the Greeting Pine (Ying Ke Song), which appears to welcome visitors with its outstretched branches. Flying-Over Rock This balanced rock is perched precariously on a narrow ledge and is a popular spot for photography. The rock appears to defy gravity and offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks. Geology of Huangshan Huangshan's distinctive landscape is primarily composed of granite, which has been shaped by millions of years of geological activity. The mountain's sharp peaks, deep valleys, and unique rock formations are the result of tectonic uplift and erosion. The granite's resistance to weathering has created the dramatic, jagged peaks that characterize the region. Touring Huangshan Planning Your Visit A visit to Huangshan typically takes two to three days to fully appreciate the main highlights. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Arriving and Initial Exploration Morning: Arrive at Huangshan and take the Yungu Cable Car to the top. Check into a mountain hotel to drop off your luggage. Afternoon: Explore the Beginning-to-Believe Peak and enjoy the stunning views and unique pine trees. Evening: Watch the sunset from Bright Summit. Day 2: Main Peaks and Scenic Areas Early Morning: Wake up early to catch the sunrise from Bright Summit. Mid-Morning: Hike to Lotus Peak, the highest peak, for panoramic views. Afternoon: Visit Flying-Over Rock and take in the stunning views of the sea of clouds if conditions are right. Evening: Relax at the mountain hotel or explore more of the scenic spots at a leisurely pace. Day 3: Descending and Hot Springs Morning: Take the Yungu Cable Car down to the base of the mountain. Mid-Morning: Visit the hot springs at the base of the mountain for a relaxing soak. Afternoon: Explore the nearby ancient villages such as Hongcun or Xidi before departing. Activities and Experiences Hiking Huangshan offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The trails are well-marked and offer breathtaking views at every turn. Popular routes include the circular path that covers the major peaks and the hike from the base to the summit. Photography The dramatic landscapes of Huangshan provide endless opportunities for photography. Key spots include the Sea of Clouds, the unique pine trees, and the panoramic views from the peaks. Local Cuisine After a day of hiking, enjoy local Anhui cuisine, known for its use of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Specialties include stinky tofu, mandarin fish, and bamboo shoots. There are several restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain and near the cable car stations. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Huangshan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter offers fewer tourists and the chance to see the mountains covered in snow. Getting There Huangshan is accessible by train, bus, and air. The nearest city is Huangshan City (Tunxi), from where you can take a bus or taxi to the mountain. Huangshan Tunxi International Airport has flights from major Chinese cities, and the Huangshan North Railway Station is connected to the high-speed rail network. Accommodation Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels in Huangshan City and near the mountain. For a unique experience, consider staying overnight on the mountain in a guesthouse or hotel, which allows you to catch the sunrise and sunset from the peaks. Tickets and Passes Purchase entrance tickets at the mountain's gates. There are separate tickets for the cable cars and hot springs. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore all the main peaks and scenic areas. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the mountain's history, culture, and geology. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.

Real freedom is to be able to live without fear - without fear of destitution, poverty, illness, murder and crime; being able to live; being able to love, one's family and friends and the wider world, because one is not in constant fear ... Freedom to say what you like on a park stool (fake freedom / fools freedom - no leg irons, perhaps, but economic chains), or the real freedom to live your life ? The West has decepid infrastructure, mass shootings (about 5 in just the last week), failing healthcare and declining life expectancy, to name a few of its ills. Is it all about the 1% or is it for all the people ? The West needs to grow up. With Sabrina in China ... In China, the people are family. In the West, the people are livestock. When you know you are family, no need to fear, and are free.

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