Beautiful moments in GuiLin 桂林

GuangZhou to Hong Kong ... Plus, Hong Kong to BeiJing ...

With Dany Dev ... A Guide to China's High-Speed Rail Network China's high-speed rail (HSR) network is the largest and most advanced in the world, offering an efficient, modern, and fast way to travel across the country. Since its inception, the network has revolutionized travel within China, making it easier and quicker to connect cities and regions that were once separated by long distances. Overview of the High-Speed Rail Network Size and Scope: As of 2024, China’s HSR network spans over 40,000 kilometers (25,000 miles), connecting nearly all major cities across the country. The network is continuously expanding, with new lines being constructed each year. Speed: Trains on the high-speed network typically travel at speeds ranging from 250 to 350 kilometers per hour (155 to 217 miles per hour). Some of the fastest trains, such as those on the Beijing–Shanghai line, can reach speeds up to 350 km/h. Key Routes: Beijing-Shanghai: This flagship route is one of the busiest and most popular, covering a distance of 1,318 kilometers (819 miles) in about 4.5 hours. Beijing-Guangzhou: One of the longest HSR routes in the world, spanning 2,298 kilometers (1,428 miles) and taking around 8 hours. Shanghai-Hong Kong: Connects the financial hub of Shanghai with the vibrant city of Hong Kong, covering 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) in approximately 8 hours. Xi’an-Chengdu: A scenic route that links the historic city of Xi’an with Chengdu, famous for its pandas, covering 658 kilometers (409 miles) in about 3 hours. Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong: This line offers a rapid connection between the three major economic hubs, with a travel time of about 14 minutes from Shenzhen to Hong Kong. Features of China’s High-Speed Trains Train Classes: China’s high-speed trains are classified primarily into three categories based on speed and service: G-Class (Gaotie): The fastest trains, operating at speeds up to 350 km/h. These are typically used on major routes like Beijing-Shanghai. D-Class (Dongche): Slightly slower, operating at speeds up to 250-300 km/h. These trains are often used on shorter or less busy routes. C-Class: Suburban trains designed for short-distance travel, operating at speeds up to 200-250 km/h. Comfort and Amenities: Seating: HSR trains offer different classes of seating, including Second Class, First Class, and Business Class. Business Class offers the most luxurious experience, with wide reclining seats and more space. Facilities: Trains are equipped with modern amenities such as power outlets, Wi-Fi (on some trains), clean restrooms, and food and beverage services. Quiet carriages are also available for passengers who prefer a more serene environment. Punctuality: The HSR network is known for its punctuality, with trains typically departing and arriving on time. Key Stations and Infrastructure Major Hubs: Beijing South Railway Station: One of the largest and busiest HSR stations, serving as a key hub for northern and central China. Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station: A massive transportation hub that integrates rail, air, and metro services, making it one of the most important stations in eastern China. Guangzhou South Railway Station: A key gateway to southern China, connecting the region with major cities like Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Wuhan Railway Station: A central hub in the heart of China, crucial for connections between the east and west. Modern Design: The stations are often architectural marvels, designed to handle large volumes of passengers efficiently. Many stations are integrated with other forms of transport, including metro lines and airports, making transfers seamless. Benefits of Using the High-Speed Rail Network Speed and Efficiency: High-speed trains are often faster than flying when considering the time spent on security checks and travel to and from airports. For distances up to 1,200 kilometers (746 miles), trains are often the quickest option. Convenience: With frequent departures, extensive coverage, and easy booking options (including online and mobile apps), the HSR network is extremely convenient for both domestic and international travelers. Environmental Impact: HSR is a greener option compared to air travel, contributing less to carbon emissions per passenger kilometer. Challenges and Future Prospects Expansion to Rural Areas: While the HSR network covers most major cities, there are ongoing efforts to expand services to more rural and remote areas, ensuring broader access. International Links: China is also exploring international HSR connections, such as a proposed high-speed rail link to Moscow, Russia, which could enhance connectivity beyond China's borders. Technological Advances: China is investing in maglev (magnetic levitation) technology, which could further increase speeds to around 600 km/h (373 mph), positioning China at the forefront of global rail innovation. Tips for Travelers Booking Tickets: Tickets can be booked online, at stations, or through travel agencies. During peak travel times, such as Chinese New Year, it is advisable to book tickets well in advance. Travel Documents: Foreign travelers will need to present their passports when booking tickets and boarding trains. Luggage: There are generous luggage allowances on HSR trains, with space available for larger items in overhead compartments or at the ends of carriages. Language: While English signage is available in major stations, it is useful to have your destination written in Chinese to show to station staff if needed. Conclusion China’s high-speed rail network is a remarkable achievement in modern transportation, offering an efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of the country. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the HSR network provides an unparalleled travel experience that continues to set global standards.

A beautiful port city in southeast China's FuJian province ...

Sailing along the Li River and YuLong River, among beautiful karst mountain peaks ... Bonus films - starting with 'Let life be beautiful' ... Sung by Alu Azhou and the Mountain Wind Group 阿鲁阿卓, 山风组合 生如夏花. Inspired by Stray Birds by famous Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, 1916 (生如夏花之绚烂，死如秋叶之静美 --飞鸟集, 泰戈尔, 1916). Lyrics and Music by PU Shu (朴树). "In this life, we can not stay so long ..." Plus, heading to the northern grasslands, Song of the Surging Water - title song of the 2015 movie Wolf Totem 汪峰 沧浪之歌（《狼图腾》主题曲）. Sung by Wang Feng. Lyrics by WANG Feng (汪峰); music by Adam HUANG (HUANG Yong, 黄勇); with Alianuul (Morin Khuur solo) and NING FangLiang (violin solo). "I am broken, but I love flying ..." We are not here so long - let each day be full of love and beauty ...

Bamboo (a grass) is fast-growing and sustainable, light and strong ...

This section of the Great Wall of China is the closest to BeiJing city.

With Sammy and Tommy ...

Don't miss it ... 00:06 北京故宫千秋亭 (Beijing Forbidden City, QianQiu Pavilion) 00:12 紫禁城 (Forbidden city) 00:19 甘肃嘉峪关 (Gansu Jiayuguan) 00:29 中国台湾竹林山观音寺 (Guanyin Temple, Zhulin Mountain, Taiwan, China) 00:37 江苏无锡灵山大佛 (Jiangsu Wuxi Lingshan Buddha) 00:46 四川稻城白塔 (Sichuan Daocheng Baita) 00:50 山西太原蒙山大佛 (Mengshan Buddha, Taiyuan, Shanxi) 01:11 四川巴塘措普湖 (Sichuan Batang Thomp Lake) 01:20 云南泸沽湖里格半岛 (Yunnan Lihu Peninsula) 01:29 西藏羊卓雍措 (Tibet Yangzhuo) 01:37 河南王屋山 (Henan Wangwushan) 01:42 江西庐山 (Jiangxi Lushan) 01:47 江西婺源 (Jiangxi Wuyuan) 01:51 湖南张家界 (Zhangjiajie, Hunan) 01:59 四川那玛峰 (Naama Peak, Sichuan) 02:13 乌鲁木齐天格尔峰 (Urumqi Tiangle Peak) 02:22 四川雅哈垭口 (Sichuan Yaha Pass) 02:34 杭州西湖曲院风荷 (Hangzhou West Lake Quyuan Fenghe) 02:43 江西新余 (Jiangxi Xinyu) 02:47 广西桂林 (Guilin) 02:58 湖北武汉东湖 (Wuhan East Lake, Hubei) 03:03 海南三亚海上观音 (Hainan Sanya Sea Goddess of Mercy) 03:07 贵州千户苗寨 (Guizhou Qianhu Miao Village) 03:12 浙江宁波 (Ningbo, Zhejiang) 03:16 南京美龄宫 (Nanjing Meiling Palace) 03:20 上海 (Shanghai) 03:24 江苏苏州 (Suzhou, Jiangsu) 03:28 广东广州 (Guangzhou, Guangdong) 03:33 中国香港 (Hong Kong, China) 03:38 中国澳门 (Macao, China) 03:40 北京三里屯 (Beijing Sanlitun) 03:41 宁夏银川鼓楼 (Ningxia Yinchuan Drum Tower) 03:44 黑龙江哈尔滨大教堂 (Harbin Cathedral, Heilongjiang Province) 03:46 云南昆明官渡古镇 (Guandu Ancient Town, Kunming, Yunnan) 03:48 广东广州中山纪念堂 (Zhongshan Memorial Hall, Guangzhou, Guangdong) 03:51 天津小白楼 (Tianjin Xiaobai Building) 03:53 湖北襄阳唐城 (Tangyang City, Hubei Province) 03:55 安徽歙县 (Yixian County, Anhui Province) 03:59 吉林长白山天池 (Jilin Changbai Mountain Tianchi) 04:04 湖南张家界武陵源 (Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie, Hunan) 04:12 重庆潼南 (Chongqing Weinan) 04:15 北京大兴机场 (Beijing Daxing Airport) 04:17 青海昆仑眼 (Qinghai Kunlun Eye) 04:19 南海三沙蓝洞 (Nansha Sansha Blue Cave) 04:21 上海陆家嘴环路 (Shanghai Lujiazui Ring Road) 04:23 陕西西安钟楼 (Xi'an Bell Tower, Shaanxi) 04:25 重庆洪崖洞 (Chongqing Hongyadong) 04:27 山西临汾华门 (Linyi Huamen, Shanxi) 04:30 陕西雨岔大陕谷 (Shaanxi Rainy Dashan Valley) 04:32 新疆开都河 (Kaidu River, Xinjiang) 04:34 新疆伊犁新源 (Xinjiang Yili Xinyuan) 04:36 云南文山普者黑 (Yunnan Wenshan Puzhehei) 04:39 新疆昌吉江布拉克 (Xinjiang Changji River Braque) 04:41 浙江台州大陈岛荧光海 (Fluorescent Sea, Dachen Island, Taizhou, Zhejiang) 04:43 新疆禾木 (Xinjiang Hemu) 04:46 安徽黄山 (Anhui Huangshan) 04:48 安徽休宁县 (Xiuning County, Anhui Province) 04:49 江西武功山 (Jiangxi Wugong Mountain) 04:50 福建厦门 (Fujian Xiamen) 04:51 福建土楼 (Fujian Tulou) 04:52 甘肃七彩丹霞 (Gansu colorful Danxia) 04:53 甘肃敦煌月牙泉 (Gansu Dunhuang Crescent Spring) 04:54 贵州黄果树瀑布 (Guizhou Huangguoshu Waterfall) 04:55 贵州贵阳 (Guiyang, Guizhou) 04:56 贵州FAST天眼望远镜 (Guizhou FAST sky telescope) 04:58 广东汕尾凤山妈祖像 (Guangdong Shanwei Fengshan Mazu statue) 04:59 广东惠州汉月湾 (Huizhou Hanyue Bay, Guangdong) 05:00 广东南沙大桥 (Guangdong Nansha Bridge) 05:01 广东广州中轴线 (Guangdong Guangzhou Central axis) 05:02 广东深圳华润总部 (Guangdong Shenzhen China Resources Headquarters) 05:03 广东深圳机场 (Guangdong Shenzhen Airport) 05:04 湖北武汉长江 (Wuhan Yangtze River, Hubei) 05:05 湖北武汉黄鹤楼 (Yellow Crane Tower, Wuhan, Hubei) 05:06 湖北武汉东湖樱园 (Wuhan East Lake Sakura Garden, Hubei) 05:07 湖北长阳天柱山 (Tianzhu Mountain, Changyang, Hubei) 05:08 湖北荆州古城 (Ancient city of Jingzhou, Hubei) 05:10 宁夏中华黄河楼 (Ningxia Zhonghua Yellow River Building) 05:11 河南老君山 (Laojun Mountain, Henan) 05:12 河南龙门石窟 (Longmen Grottoes, Henan) 05:13 黑龙江哈尔滨冰雪大世界 (Harbin Ice and Snow World in Heilongjiang Province) 05:14 黑龙江大庆芍药花海 (Heilongjiang Daqing peony flower sea) 05:15 湖南长沙大剧院 (Hunan Changsha Grand Theatre) 05:16 湖南凤凰古镇 (Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan) 05:17 吉林集安 (Jilin Ji'an) 05:18 辽宁沈阳 (Shenyang, Liaoning) 05:20 辽宁大连星海湾大桥 (Dalian Xinghai Bay Bridge, Liaoning) 05:21 辽宁大连长兴岛 (Changxing Island, Dalian, Liaoning) 05:22 江苏扬州瘦西湖 (Slender West Lake, Yangzhou, Jiangsu) 05:23 江苏苏州十里斜塘 (Suzhou Shili Liantang) 05:24 江苏南京灵谷寺萤火虫 (Fireflies in Linggu Temple, Nanjing, Jiangsu) 05:25 江苏南京平流雾 (Nanjing Nanjing River) 05:26 广西柳州 (Liuzhou, Guangxi) 05:27 广西桂林相公山 (Xianggong Mountain, Guilin, Guangxi) 05:28 广西德天瀑布 (Guangxi Detian Waterfall) 05:29 广西百色福禄河 (Guangxi Baise Fulu River) 05:30 青海格尔木河 (Qinghai Golmud River) 05:32 青海俄博梁 (Qinghai Russian Boliang) 05:33 青海哈拉湖 (Qinghai Lake Hala) 05:34 青海湖 (Qinghai Lake)