BeiJing 北京 in January and February

With Little Chinese Everywhere ...

LiJiang is primarily home to the NaXi ethnic minority. XiShuangBanNa is close to the border with Myanmar.

An in-depth discussion with Aaron Bastani and Martin Jacques. If interested in what is happening in the world today, or in history, politics, and geo-politics, this is a must-see ...

Fun teacher ... [videogallery type=playlist id=PLneZiE_zP2-wKOn0bDZ1p5VEph5GvHbl7 c=3 num=50]

Modern China, center of business and commerce, began here, in GuangDong province, south east China, just forty years ago, following the vision and effort of Deng XiaoPing (1904 - 1997). Deng XiaoPing opened China to the world, as it had been during the long period of a prior golden age with the Silk Road to the Middle East and Europe (by land) and other parts of south east Asia and as far as Africa via the Silk Road of the Sea. His policies are credited with helping China to develop in the most startling transformation that the world has ever seen, raising the standard of living of hundreds of millions. This followed his Southern Tour of 1992 when the likelihood of adoption of his vision still looked slim. Deng was also a key player in the return of Hong Kong to China in 1997. Too far. some might say, but without this move, the position to debate that would not now exist. Let's take a stroll along a street in the downtown on a spring evening ...

With Travel East ... Wuhan Travel Guide Introduction Wuhan, the capital of Hubei province, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and bustling modern life. Located at the intersection of the Yangtze and Han rivers, Wuhan is a major transportation hub and a center for education and industry. This guide will take you through the must-see attractions, local cuisine, cultural highlights, and practical travel tips for visiting Wuhan. Must-See Attractions Yellow Crane Tower (黄鹤楼) The Yellow Crane Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Wuhan. This historic tower, originally built in 223 AD, offers stunning views of the city and the Yangtze River. It has been rebuilt several times and is now a symbol of Wuhan's cultural heritage. East Lake (东湖) East Lake is the largest urban lake in China, offering beautiful scenery and numerous recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, cycling, and walking along the picturesque lake shores. The area also features botanical gardens, bird sanctuaries, and scenic spots like the Cherry Blossom Park. Hubei Provincial Museum (湖北省博物馆) The Hubei Provincial Museum is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including the famous bronze chime bells of the Zenghouyi Tomb, ancient pottery, and relics from various dynasties. The museum provides insight into the rich cultural heritage of Hubei province. Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge (武汉长江大桥) The Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge is the first bridge to span the Yangtze River. Opened in 1957, this engineering marvel connects the Wuchang and Hanyang districts of Wuhan. The bridge offers panoramic views of the river and the city skyline. Guiyuan Buddhist Temple (归元寺) Guiyuan Buddhist Temple is one of Wuhan's most important religious sites. Established in the Qing Dynasty, the temple features beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and a vast collection of Buddha statues. It is a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Local Cuisine Wuhan is famous for its delicious local cuisine, which is characterized by bold flavors and hearty dishes. Here are some must-try foods: Re Gan Mian (热干面) Re Gan Mian, or hot dry noodles, is Wuhan's signature dish. This savory noodle dish is made with sesame paste, soy sauce, garlic, and pickled vegetables. It's a popular breakfast food in Wuhan and a must-try for visitors. Doupi (豆皮) Doupi is a traditional Wuhan snack made from glutinous rice, minced pork, mushrooms, and other ingredients, all wrapped in a bean curd skin and fried until crispy. It's a flavorful and satisfying dish that reflects the city's culinary traditions. Mianwo (面窝) Mianwo is a type of savory fried doughnut made from rice flour and mung beans. These crispy treats are often enjoyed as a breakfast item or snack and are commonly sold by street vendors. Wuchang Fish (武昌鱼) Wuchang Fish is a famous dish from the Wuchang district of Wuhan. The fish is typically steamed with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that highlights the natural taste of the fish. Cultural Highlights Wuhan University (武汉大学) Wuhan University is one of China's most prestigious universities and is renowned for its beautiful campus. The university is particularly famous for its cherry blossoms, which attract thousands of visitors each spring. The campus also features historic buildings and scenic spots worth exploring. Jiqing Street (吉庆街) Jiqing Street is a lively area known for its street performances, local snacks, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great place to experience the local culture, enjoy live music, and taste a variety of Wuhan's street food offerings. Han Show Theatre (汉秀剧场) The Han Show Theatre is a state-of-the-art performance venue that hosts spectacular shows combining acrobatics, dance, and technology. The theatre itself is an architectural marvel, designed to resemble a Chinese lantern. Practical Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Wuhan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting Around: Wuhan has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro lines, and taxis. The metro is a convenient and efficient way to travel around the city. Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. It's helpful to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases. Accommodation: Wuhan offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Popular areas to stay include Hankou, Wuchang, and Hanyang districts. Health and Safety: Wuhan is generally a safe city for travelers. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings. Conclusion Wuhan is a dynamic city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern urban life. Whether you're exploring its ancient landmarks, savoring its local cuisine, or experiencing its vibrant culture, Wuhan offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Use this guide to make the most of your visit to this fascinating city in Hubei province.

With Beijing Old Liu ... Xinjiang Visitor Guide: Natural Landscapes & Practical Travel Tips Xinjiang is one of China's most captivating and culturally diverse regions, offering travelers a mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and a variety of ethnic cultures. From the vast deserts of the Taklamakan to the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang has something for every type of traveler, whether you're an adventurer, a culture seeker, or a nature lover. This guide provides an in-depth look at Xinjiang's natural wonders and offers practical travel tips to ensure a smooth and unforgettable visit. The Tianshan Mountains (Heavenly Mountains) Overview: The Tianshan Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic alpine landscapes, including towering peaks, lush valleys, and pristine glacial lakes. The region is excellent for hiking, sightseeing, and experiencing the local nomadic culture. Key Highlights: Bogda Peak: A breathtaking snow-capped peak rising over 5,445 meters, ideal for experienced mountaineers. Tianchi (Heavenly Lake): A stunning alpine lake, perfect for day trips and boat tours, located about 110 km from Urumqi. It’s surrounded by spruce trees and offers picturesque hiking trails. Travel Tip: It is best to visit Heavenly Lake during late spring or summer (May-August) when the weather is most favorable, and the trails are accessible. Always bring layers as temperatures can drop significantly in the mountains. Taklamakan Desert Overview: The Taklamakan Desert, one of the largest shifting-sand deserts in the world, is known for its extreme beauty and harshness. Visiting this desert is an adventure in itself, where you can explore the golden dunes and see rare desert plants and animals. Key Highlights: Kumtag Desert: A dramatic expanse of sand dunes in the eastern part of the Taklamakan, easily accessible from Turpan. Yarkand Poplar Forest: A rare sight of poplar trees thriving in the desert. Visit in autumn for a golden spectacle as the leaves change color. Travel Tip: Be prepared for extreme conditions in the desert. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and lightweight, breathable clothing. It’s best to go with a guided tour or a local expert as navigating the desert on your own can be dangerous. Kanas Lake Overview: Located in the Altai Mountains, Kanas Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dense pine forests, and breathtaking autumn landscapes. It's a popular destination for hikers and photographers looking to capture the stunning seasonal colors and wildlife. Key Highlights: Kanas Nature Reserve: A pristine natural park home to wildlife such as snow leopards and elk. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Kanas Monster Legend: Local myths speak of a mysterious creature lurking in the lake, adding a bit of intrigue to your visit. Travel Tip: The best time to visit Kanas is from June to September. In autumn (September), the scenery turns golden and is incredibly photogenic. Access is more difficult in winter due to heavy snowfall, but the area is still open for adventurous travelers. Ili River Valley Overview: The Ili River Valley is a picturesque region characterized by vast green pastures, rolling hills, and wildflower meadows. The valley contrasts beautifully with Xinjiang's deserts and rugged mountains, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers. Key Highlights: Nalati Grassland: A scenic area with endless pastures and colorful wildflowers in summer. Ideal for horseback riding and experiencing the local Kazakh culture. Lavender Fields: Famous lavender fields bloom in June, turning the valley into a sea of purple and offering a unique contrast to the green hills and blue skies. Travel Tip: Visit the Ili River Valley in late spring (April-May) or early summer (June) to see the lavender fields and wildflowers at their peak. Horseback tours are highly recommended to explore the vast grasslands. Karakul Lake and Pamir Mountains Overview: Located along the famous Karakoram Highway, Karakul Lake is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the world. Set against the backdrop of the snow-covered Muztagh Ata and Kongur mountains, it offers stunning reflections and an opportunity to witness the nomadic life of Kyrgyz herders. Key Highlights: Muztagh Ata Mountain: Known as the “Father of Ice Mountains,” it’s popular with mountaineers. The lake reflects the snow-capped peak beautifully. Nomadic Culture: Visitors can stay in traditional yurts and experience the simple lifestyle of Kyrgyz and Tajik herders. Travel Tip: The altitude at Karakul Lake is over 3,600 meters, so be prepared for high-altitude conditions and take time to acclimate. The best time to visit is from May to October, as the winters are harsh. Flaming Mountains and Turpan Basin Overview: The Flaming Mountains, located in the Turpan Basin, are famous for their red, flame-like appearance under the hot desert sun. This region is not only rich in unique landscapes but also home to significant historical sites, including ancient cities and Buddhist caves. Key Highlights: Gaochang Ruins: An ancient city that was once a major hub on the Silk Road. The ruins are a fascinating blend of history and desert scenery. Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves: A series of Buddhist cave paintings dating back to the 5th century. A must-visit for history enthusiasts. Travel Tip: Turpan can get extremely hot in summer (up to 50°C), so plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. Practical Travel Information for Xinjiang When to Visit The best time to visit Xinjiang depends on the specific regions you plan to explore. In general, late spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for travel. The summer can be hot, especially in desert areas, but it is also the best time for visiting the mountains and high-altitude lakes. Transportation By Air: Xinjiang has several international airports, including Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (the main gateway), Kashgar Airport, and Kanas Airport. Domestic flights connect Urumqi with most major Chinese cities. By Train: The railway network connects Urumqi with other Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. The journey is long but scenic, especially on the high-speed trains. Local Travel: To explore Xinjiang’s remote areas, it is highly recommended to hire a local guide or driver. Public transportation can be limited in the more rural regions, and self-driving is an option for those familiar with local road conditions. Accommodation Xinjiang offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels in major cities like Urumqi and Kashgar to guesthouses and homestays in rural areas. Staying in a yurt with local nomads in regions like the Ili Valley or Karakul Lake is a unique experience. Cultural Sensitivity Xinjiang is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Uighur, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, and Tajik peoples. Respect for local customs, particularly around religion, is essential. Many locals are Muslim, so it is important to be mindful of dress codes, especially in rural areas and when visiting mosques. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or inside religious sites. Language Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals, especially Uighurs and Kazakhs, speak their own languages. English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas, so it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or Uighur, or have a translation app handy. Food and Cuisine Xinjiang is famous for its lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles (laghman), pilaf (polo), and naan bread. Uighur food is flavorful, with a blend of Central Asian and Middle Eastern influences. Be sure to visit the local markets in Urumqi or Kashgar to sample the regional specialties. Important Note: Always carry your passport and travel documents. Xinjiang has a heavy security presence, and travelers may encounter frequent security checks.

A Taoist mountain near LuoYang. Includes a large statue of LaoZi, author of the Dao De Jing. Not to be confused with LaoJunShan in YunNan.