Big Fish and Begonia 大鱼海棠 – title song and clips

Beautiful and varied YunNan province, south central China, borders GuangXi, GuiZhou, SiChuan and Tibet, and the countries Vietnam, Laos and Myanma. With State of Zan ...

With CGTN Travelogue ... With Blondie in China ... Xiamen Visitor Guide Introduction Xiamen, a coastal city in Fujian Province, is known for its scenic views, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. With its mix of modern urban life and traditional charm, Xiamen offers visitors an unforgettable experience. This guide will provide you with all the essential information to explore Xiamen's beautiful beaches, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. Key Attractions 1. Gulangyu Island Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just a short ferry ride from Xiamen's main city. Known for its colonial architecture, winding streets, and absence of vehicles, Gulangyu offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Highlights include the Piano Museum, Sunlight Rock, and the Shuzhuang Garden. 2. Nanputuo Temple Nanputuo Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China. Located at the foot of Wulaofeng (Five Old Men Peaks), the temple complex includes beautiful halls, statues, and a large lotus pond. Visitors can also hike up the mountain behind the temple for panoramic views of Xiamen. 3. Xiamen University Xiamen University is often considered one of the most beautiful campuses in China. Visitors can explore its lush grounds, see the historic buildings, and walk around the tranquil Furong Lake. The university is located near Nanputuo Temple, making it convenient to visit both in one trip. 4. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street Zhongshan Road is a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, street food vendors, and historic buildings. It's a great place to experience local life, shop for souvenirs, and taste Xiamen's famous snacks, such as peanut soup and oyster omelets. 5. Hulishan Fortress This coastal defense fortress was built in the late 19th century during the Qing Dynasty. The site includes ancient cannons, barracks, and a small museum detailing Xiamen's military history. Hulishan Fortress offers insights into China's coastal defense history and provides scenic views of the ocean. Cultural Activities Xiamen is a city rich in culture and tradition. Here are some activities to help you experience the local culture: Tea Tasting: Fujian Province is famous for its tea, and Xiamen is a great place to taste high-quality oolong tea. Visit a local tea house or the Xiamen Tea Culture Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. Temple Visits: In addition to Nanputuo Temple, explore other local temples such as the Hongshan Temple and the Tianhou Temple, dedicated to the goddess of the sea, Mazu. Attend a Minnan Opera Performance: Minnan opera, also known as Hokkien opera, is a traditional form of Chinese opera popular in Fujian. Catch a performance to experience this unique cultural expression. Explore Local Markets: Visit markets like the Eighth Market (Ba Jiao Ting Market) to see local produce, seafood, and traditional foods. It's a great way to experience the local lifestyle and cuisine. Dining Options Xiamen is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of local dishes and seafood delicacies. Here are some must-try dining experiences: Seafood: Being a coastal city, Xiamen boasts fresh seafood dishes. Try local specialties like sandworm jelly, steamed mantis shrimp, and crab porridge. Shacha Noodles: This famous noodle dish is made with a unique peanut-based shacha sauce, pork, and various vegetables. It is a staple of Xiamen's street food scene. Spring Rolls: Xiamen-style spring rolls are a popular snack. They are filled with a mix of vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood, wrapped in thin dough and fried to a crispy perfection. Local Snacks: Don't miss out on trying local snacks like peanut soup, oyster omelet, and rice dumplings (zongzi). You can find these at street food stalls and markets. Dim Sum: For a more formal dining experience, visit a local dim sum restaurant to enjoy a variety of steamed buns, dumplings, and other small dishes. Shopping Xiamen offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from modern malls to traditional markets: SM City Xiamen: This large shopping mall is one of the most popular in Xiamen, offering international brands, local shops, and a variety of dining options. Zhongshan Road: A pedestrian street known for its local boutiques, souvenir shops, and street food. It's a great place to buy local crafts, tea, and snacks. Shapowei Art Zone: A trendy area with art galleries, coffee shops, and boutique stores. It's an excellent spot for unique gifts and handmade items. Wuyuanwan Wetland Park Market: Visit this market for fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods. It's a perfect spot for those looking to experience local life and purchase fresh food. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Xiamen is from October to December when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. Spring (March to May) is also a good time, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Getting Around: Xiamen is well-connected by public transportation, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. Biking is also a popular way to explore the city, especially along the scenic coastline. Language: Mandarin is the primary language spoken in Xiamen, though many people understand basic English, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases or using a translation app can be helpful. Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially when shopping at local markets and street vendors. Respect Local Customs: Xiamen is a culturally rich city with many religious sites. Be respectful when visiting temples and other religious places. Dress modestly, especially when entering temples, and follow any rules regarding photography. Safety: Xiamen is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and markets.

With Walk East ...

DéTiān PùBù, 'Virtuous Heaven Waterfall', is Asia's largest and easily viewed by walkways and boat. The waterfalls lie in the south of GuangXi province on the border with Vietnam. There are buses from NanNing, the provincial capital.

The ancient town of LiJiang, in YunNan province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 800 years of history. It was an important hub of the South Silk Road, along which many items were traded, including tea. It is home to the NaXi ethnic minority. LiJiang has lots of boutique hotels and cosy hostels in traditional architecture. The town, with its cobbled streets, streams and bridges, features many crafts (embroidery, silverware, drums and more) plus a wide variety of street snacks and restaurants.

The Hakka Tulou are unique, fortress-like buildings located in the mountainous areas of Fujian Province. These large, circular or rectangular earthen structures were built by the Hakka people, an ethnic group known for their migratory history. The Tulou are notable for their communal living spaces, defensive features, and remarkable architectural design. Who are the Hakka People? The Hakka are a subgroup of the Han Chinese, known for their migratory history and resilience. Originating from northern China, the Hakka migrated southwards over several centuries, settling in the mountainous regions of southern China. The name "Hakka" means "guest people," reflecting their history of migration and settlement in new areas. Hakka culture places a strong emphasis on education, family unity, and community cooperation. Despite facing hardships and displacement, the Hakka have maintained their unique cultural identity and traditions. Historical and Cultural Background Origins and History The construction of Tulou began during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and continued through the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) Dynasties. These buildings were designed to provide protection and communal living for large families or clans, often housing up to 80 families in a single Tulou. Cultural Significance The Tulou reflect the Hakka people's need for security and their communal lifestyle. The buildings are designed to be self-sufficient, with living quarters, storage areas, and defensive structures all incorporated into the design. The Hakka culture values family unity, and the Tulou are a physical manifestation of this principle. Architectural Features Design and Structure Tulou are typically large, multi-storied structures built with thick earthen walls that provide insulation and protection. The outer walls are made from rammed earth, mixed with stone, bamboo, and wood, making them extremely durable. The interiors are organized around a central courtyard, with rooms for living, storage, and communal activities. Defensive Capabilities The design of the Tulou includes defensive features such as narrow windows and a single, reinforced entrance. These elements were intended to protect the inhabitants from bandits and wild animals. The circular shape of many Tulou also allows for effective communication and defense within the building. Communal and Social Aspects Living Arrangements The Tulou were built to house entire clans, with each family having its own designated area within the structure. The central courtyard served as a communal space for social activities, celebrations, and meetings. This layout fostered a strong sense of community and cooperation among the inhabitants. Self-Sufficiency The Tulou were designed to be self-sufficient, with areas designated for food storage, livestock, and agricultural activities. This self-sufficiency was essential, as the Tulou were often located in remote, mountainous areas where resources needed to be carefully managed. UNESCO World Heritage Status Recognition In 2008, several Fujian Tulou were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This recognition highlights their architectural uniqueness, cultural significance, and historical importance. The Tulou are considered outstanding examples of communal living and defensive architecture. Conservation Efforts Efforts to preserve the Tulou focus on maintaining the traditional construction techniques and protecting the buildings from modern threats such as tourism pressure and environmental degradation. These efforts aim to ensure that the Tulou remain a living part of Hakka culture. Conclusion The Hakka Tulou are extraordinary structures that embody the resilience, ingenuity, and communal spirit of the Hakka people. These architectural marvels continue to stand as a testament to the Hakka's ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments. As both historical treasures and vibrant communities, the Tulou attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life. With How To Do? In China ...

Including the Union of China Timelapse 2015 film, plus timelapse films of ShangHai, HangZhou and Hong Kong. Beautiful ...

YunNan province, in south west China, has a diversity of ethnic cultures and a myriad of landscapes; a real-life idyll ... An amazing film - don't miss this ! Two fun-loving young women from Vietnam take to the road across YunNan province ...

With Ben Norton ... With Brian Berletic / The New Atlas ... With Inside China Business ...