China and the West – two very different views of the world

With Einzelgänger ... Bonus film - Erich Fromm on 'To Have or To Be' ...

Filmed in the summer of 2010.

Plus a first look at Xi'An ...

In BeiJing alone, there are around 200,000 places to eat, so you'll never be far from a tasty meal and there is so much to try that China is very much a foodie heaven. Here's BeiJingBuzzz's cheat sheet of popular food dishes that you will love. Feel free to print out for personal use ... Huo Guo (火锅) : 'Hotpot' - order what you like and cook it in a steaming broth that can be spicy, mild or both. Served with a sesame sauce topped with coriander and / or spring onion; with vinegar and soy sauce as additional options. Thinly sliced meats, all manner of vegetables, noodles, eggs, tofu and more. Be sure to try Dong Dofu (iced tofu) and Dofu skin - super delicious in Huo Guo. There are many independents but you cannot go wrong if you see a XiaBu XiaBu, a very popular restaurant chain. Mābo Dōfu (麻婆豆腐) : soft beancurd in a spicy sauce with minced pork BaoZi (包子) : steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables JiaoZi (饺子) : boiled or pan-fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables RouJiaMo (肉夹馍) : a sandwich made with flatbread and filled with meat (most commonly pork) CongYou Bing (葱油饼) : spring onion / scallion pancakes - a savory flatbread made with scallions and flour ZhengJiao (蒸饺) : steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with meat or seafood ZongZi (粽子) : glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves GouBuLi BaoZi (狗不理包子) : steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables, popular in Tianjin DouHua (豆花) : sweet tofu pudding XiaoLongBao (小笼包) : steamed dumplings filled with meat or seafood and soup Xī Hóng Shì Chǎo JīDàn (西红柿炒蛋): egg and tomato - a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, it is often a simple and comforting dish, that can be found in many Chinese home-style cooking. It is typically made by stir-frying diced tomatoes and beaten eggs together with some seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and sometimes soy sauce. DanDan Mian (担担面): a spicy Szechuan noodle dish made with thin wheat noodles, a spicy chili oil-based sauce, and often ground meat JianShui Zhu (建水煮): fried vermicelli noodles popular in Yunnan province LanZhou LaMian (兰州拉面): hand-pulled noodles popular in Lanzhou, Gansu province ReGan Mian (热干面): Wuhan hot dry noodles - a spicy dish made with thin wheat noodles, chili oil and ground meat, popular in Wuhan, Hubei province ZhaJiang Mian (炸酱面): a dish of thick wheat noodles served with a fermented soybean paste sauce and vegetables, popular in northern China ZhaJiangMian (炸酱面): a dish of thick wheat noodles served with a bean paste sauce, popular in northeastern China GuoTie (锅贴): Chinese fried dumplings MaLaTang (麻辣烫): a spicy hotpot popular in Sichuan and Chongqing Di San Xian (第三鲜): a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, typically found in northern China, it is a type of stir-fry dish made with three main ingredients: potatoes, eggplant, and bell peppers, it is also called "Three Fresh" or "Three Precious Vegetables". It is typically stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and scallions, and seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes oyster sauce. GōngBǎo JīDīng (宫保鸡丁) : also transcribed Gong Bao, Kung Pao or Kung Po, is a spicy, stir-fried Chinese dish made with cubes of chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. A classic dish in Sichuan cuisine. JīSī Liáng Miàn (鸡丝凉面) : Chinese Chicken Noodle Salad - Chinese chicken noodle salad features noodles tossed in a nutty savory sesame sauce and topped with shredded chicken and cucumber. Hei Jiao Niu Liu (黑椒牛柳) - Sliced tender beef with onions, peppers and black pepper. Huo Guo - hot pot There are also around 6,000 McDonalds in China, plus Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut, Subway and more. And if you like cooking from scratch yourself, you'll find many huge supermarkets plus local markets.

At the foot of the Western Hills in west BeiJing lies the large and beautiful Botanical Gardens ... Also well worth a visit is the nearby XiangShan Park, which is actually on the slopes of the Western Hills, with many scenic spots and quite a climb !

With Beijing Old Liu ... Welcome to Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon Introduction Top Attractions Activities Local Culture Local Cuisine Visitor Tips Getting There Introduction Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon, located in Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in HuBei Province, is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its dramatic karst landscapes, towering cliffs, deep gorges, and pristine rivers. Often referred to as "China's Grand Canyon," this stunning destination offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-visit location for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The canyon stretches for about 108 kilometers and is carved out by the Qingjiang River, creating a series of spectacular geological formations over millions of years. Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon is a part of the Enshi National Geological Park and is recognized for its scenic beauty and ecological diversity. Top Attractions Pingshan Gorge The Pingshan Gorge is the centerpiece of the Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon. It features sheer cliffs that rise dramatically from the Qingjiang River, creating a narrow gorge that is both awe-inspiring and serene. Visitors can take a boat ride through the gorge to fully appreciate its towering rock formations, clear waters, and lush vegetation. Qingjiang River The Qingjiang River, known as the "Mother River" of the Enshi region, winds its way through the canyon, offering stunning views of the surrounding karst landscape. The river is renowned for its emerald green waters, which contrast beautifully with the steep cliffs and dense forests along its banks. The river is perfect for leisurely boat trips or more adventurous white-water rafting. Yunlong Ground Crack One of the most unique geological features of the Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon is the Yunlong Ground Crack. This deep fissure in the earth's surface is more than 3 kilometers long and varies in width, creating a dramatic and almost otherworldly landscape. Visitors can walk along the edge of the crack and peer into its depths, offering a thrilling experience for geology enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Qingjiang Ancient Town Qingjiang Ancient Town, located near the canyon, is a beautifully preserved historic town that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The town is home to traditional Tujia and Miao architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant markets. It’s an ideal place to experience the local culture and enjoy traditional performances, handicrafts, and cuisine. Activities Boat Rides: Explore the stunning Pingshan Gorge by taking a boat ride along the Qingjiang River. This serene journey allows you to fully appreciate the towering cliffs, emerald waters, and lush greenery that make this canyon so special. Hiking: The Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon offers numerous hiking trails that wind through its rugged terrain. Whether you're looking for a challenging climb or a leisurely walk, there are trails for all levels, each offering breathtaking views of the canyon. Rafting: For the more adventurous, white-water rafting on the Qingjiang River is a thrilling way to experience the canyon’s natural beauty. The river's rapids vary in intensity, providing excitement for both beginners and seasoned rafters. Photography: With its dramatic landscapes, the Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon is a paradise for photographers. The play of light and shadow on the cliffs, the reflection of the mountains in the river, and the vibrant colors of the vegetation make for stunning photographs. Local Culture The Enshi region is home to the Tujia and Miao ethnic minorities, both of which have rich cultural traditions that are still very much alive today. Visitors to the Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon have the opportunity to experience these unique cultures firsthand. The Tujia people are known for their distinctive folk songs, dances, and Baishou Dance, a traditional group dance that is often performed during festivals. The Miao people, on the other hand, are famous for their intricate silver jewelry, colorful traditional costumes, and lively music. Local festivals, such as the Tujia New Year and the Miao Sisters' Meal Festival, offer a vibrant display of the region's cultural heritage, with traditional performances, parades, and feasts that are a delight to witness. Local Cuisine The cuisine of the Enshi region is heavily influenced by the Tujia and Miao ethnic groups, offering a unique blend of flavors and ingredients. Some must-try dishes include: Tujia Bacon: A local specialty, Tujia bacon is smoked over a wood fire, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. It's often served with vegetables or used as a flavoring in soups and stews. Sanxia Fish: Freshwater fish from the Qingjiang River, prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, steaming, and stewing. The fish is known for its tender meat and delicate flavor. Enshi Green Tea: The Enshi region is famous for its green tea, which is grown in the mountains surrounding the canyon. The tea is known for its bright color, fresh aroma, and mellow taste. Maize Dishes: Corn is a staple in the local diet, and many dishes feature maize as a primary ingredient. Maize pancakes, steamed corn buns, and corn porridge are all popular dishes in the area. Pickled Vegetables: A variety of pickled vegetables are served as side dishes or snacks, providing a tangy and refreshing contrast to the richer flavors of the main dishes. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Spring and autumn are particularly recommended for their pleasant temperatures and stunning natural scenery. Altitude: The canyon is situated at a moderate altitude, so visitors should be prepared for slightly thinner air, especially during strenuous activities. It's advisable to take it easy on the first day to acclimate. Clothing: Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Be prepared for rain, especially in the summer months, by bringing a waterproof jacket or poncho. Safety: Always stay on designated paths and follow the guidance of local guides, especially when exploring the more rugged areas of the canyon. The terrain can be challenging, and it's important to be cautious. Respect Local Customs: When visiting the Qingjiang Ancient Town or interacting with local communities, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or cultural sites. Getting There The Enshi Pingshan Grand Canyon is located in Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture in HuBei Province. Here are some transportation options: By Air: The nearest airport is Enshi Xujiaping Airport, which has flights to major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the canyon. By Train: Enshi is well-connected by train, with regular services from major cities like Wuhan, Chongqing, and Yichang. From Enshi Railway Station, you can take a bus or taxi to the canyon. By Bus: Long-distance buses operate from nearby cities to Enshi, and local buses or taxis can take you to the canyon from the city center. By Car: If you prefer to drive, Enshi is accessible via highways from major cities in HuBei and the surrounding provinces. The scenic drive offers beautiful views of the countryside and mountains.

Bonus film - ShangHai in time-lapse ... Bonus film - family China trip ...