BingLing Temple 炳灵寺 Grottoes, YongJing, GanSu province

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Great Wall of China Tour This itinerary takes you on a comprehensive journey along the Great Wall of China, starting from the western end in Jiayuguan and ending at the eastern end in Qinhuangdao. Week 1: Western End - Jiayuguan and Dunhuang Begin your journey at the western end of the Great Wall in Jiayuguan, Gansu Province. Explore the Jiayuguan Fort, an ancient military stronghold at the western terminus of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. Visit the nearby Overhanging Great Wall and the First Beacon Tower to experience the rugged beauty of the western desert landscape. Travel to Dunhuang to visit the Mogao Caves and the Crescent Lake oasis, and learn about the Silk Road history of the region. Week 2: Central Section - Shanxi and Hebei Travel eastward to Shanxi Province to explore sections of the Great Wall at locations like Datong and Yanmenguan. Visit the Hanging Temple of Datong and the Yungang Grottoes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites renowned for their ancient Buddhist art and architecture. Continue to Hebei Province to visit iconic sections of the Great Wall such as Jinshanling and Simatai, known for their scenic beauty and well-preserved architecture. Week 3: Beijing and Surroundings Arrive in Beijing, the capital city of China, and explore the famous Mutianyu and Badaling sections of the Great Wall. Visit other historical and cultural attractions in Beijing, such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. Take day trips to lesser-known sections of the Great Wall, such as Huanghuacheng and Jiankou, for a more secluded experience. Week 4: Eastern End - Liaoning and Hebei Travel northeast to Liaoning Province to visit sections of the Great Wall at locations like Shanhaiguan and Jinzhou. Explore the Old Dragon's Head, where the Great Wall meets the Bohai Sea, and visit the nearby Shanhaiguan Pass, known as the "First Pass Under Heaven." Return to Hebei Province to visit the eastern terminus of the Great Wall at Laolongtou (Old Dragon's Head) in Qinhuangdao.

With China Walking Tour ... Visitor Guide to the Sui and Tang Dynasties of LuoYang City National Park Getting There Location: The Sui and Tang Dynasties of LuoYang City National Park is located in LuoYang, HeNan Province. It is easily accessible from the city center. By Public Transport: You can take a local bus or taxi from anywhere in LuoYang to reach the park. Buses 81 and 83 have stops near the park. By Car: If you are driving, ample parking is available near the park entrance. Entrance and Tickets Entrance Fee: The entrance fee varies depending on the season and any special exhibitions. Typically, it ranges from 50 to 100 RMB. Opening Hours: The park is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Check for any changes during holidays or special events. Attractions and Activities Historical Sites MingTang and TianTang Complex: Reconstructed palace complexes that offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Sui and Tang dynasties. The architecture and layout are based on historical records and archaeological findings. Ancient City Walls: Explore the remnants of the ancient city walls that protected LuoYang during the Sui and Tang periods. Museums and Exhibitions Archaeological Museum: This museum within the park showcases artifacts and relics from the Sui and Tang dynasties, including pottery, tools, and ancient manuscripts. Historical Exhibitions: Various exhibitions throughout the park provide detailed insights into the history, culture, and daily life of the Sui and Tang dynasties. Gardens and Scenery Imperial Gardens: Beautifully landscaped gardens that reflect the horticultural styles of the Sui and Tang periods. These gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Scenic Lakes: The park features several artificial lakes that enhance the serene atmosphere and provide picturesque views. Interactive Activities Costume Experience: Visitors can dress in traditional Sui and Tang dynasty attire and take photos in the historical settings of the park. Guided Tours: Join guided tours to learn more about the history and significance of the sites within the park. Tours are available in multiple languages. Dining and Local Specialties Within the park, you will find several dining options that offer both local and traditional Chinese cuisine. Some recommended spots include: Imperial Banquet Restaurant: Experience a traditional imperial-style meal with dishes that were popular during the Sui and Tang dynasties. Tea Houses: Relax in a tea house and enjoy a variety of Chinese teas along with light snacks. Street Food Stalls: Try local snacks and delicacies from the numerous food stalls scattered throughout the park. Shopping Souvenir Shops: Browse the souvenir shops for unique gifts and mementos, including replicas of ancient artifacts, traditional crafts, and books on local history. Artisan Workshops: Visit workshops where local artisans demonstrate traditional crafts such as pottery, calligraphy, and silk weaving. Many items are available for purchase. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit the park are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes. An umbrella or raincoat may be useful during the rainy season. Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the park. Many tours are available in English and other languages. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Avoid touching artifacts and stay on designated paths. Conclusion The Sui and Tang Dynasties of LuoYang City National Park offers a fascinating journey through Chinese history. With its blend of historical sites, beautiful gardens, and cultural activities, the park provides an enriching experience for all visitors. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this national park in LuoYang is a must-visit destination.

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