China trip: Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Guilin, Hong Kong

Filmed in spring 2010.

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province in southwest China, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, spicy cuisine, and relaxed lifestyle. Here's a guide for tourists visiting Chengdu:

Cultural and Historical Attractions:
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: One of the most popular attractions in Chengdu, this conservation center allows visitors to observe giant pandas in a semi-natural habitat.

Jinli Ancient Street: Located next to Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street is a bustling pedestrian street lined with traditional Sichuan-style buildings, shops, teahouses, and street food stalls.

Wuhou Shrine: Dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period, and Liu Bei, the emperor of the Shu Kingdom, Wuhou Shrine is a historic complex with beautiful gardens and ancient architecture.

Du Fu Thatched Cottage: This museum and park commemorates the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu and features reconstructions of his former residence and gardens.

Culinary Delights:
Sichuan Cuisine: Chengdu is renowned for its spicy and flavorful Sichuan cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like mapo tofu, hot pot, and dandan noodles.

Hot Pot: Chengdu's hot pot is famous nationwide. Enjoy a communal dining experience where you cook various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients in a bubbling pot of spicy broth.

Natural Beauty:
Mount Qingcheng: Located about an hour's drive from Chengdu, Mount Qingcheng is one of the birthplaces of Taoism and offers picturesque hiking trails, ancient temples, and serene scenery.

Jiuzhaigou Valley: While it's a bit further from Chengdu (requiring a flight or long bus ride), Jiuzhaigou Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and colorful forests.

Modern Attractions:
Chengdu Research Base of Tianfu Giant Panda Breeding: In addition to the Giant Panda Breeding Base, this newer facility focuses on breeding and research for giant pandas and other endangered species.

Sichuan Opera: Experience traditional Sichuan opera performances featuring colorful costumes, face-changing (bian lian) techniques, acrobatics, and puppet shows.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Chengdu has an efficient public transportation system, including a subway and buses. Taxis and ride-hailing services like DiDi are also readily available.

Weather: Chengdu has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Language: While Mandarin is the official language, the local dialect in Chengdu is Sichuanese. English may not be widely spoken outside of tourist areas, so consider learning a few basic phrases or carrying a translation app.

Chengdu offers a blend of cultural heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty, making it an enticing destination for travelers seeking an authentic Chinese experience. Whether you're exploring historic sites, savoring spicy cuisine, or marveling at the region's natural wonders, Chengdu is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history, culture, and modernity. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect as a tourist in Beijing:

Historical Landmarks:
The Great Wall of China: One of the most iconic structures in the world, the Great Wall is easily accessible from Beijing. Mutianyu and Badaling sections are popular among tourists.

Forbidden City (Palace Museum): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast imperial palace complex was home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years. It houses numerous halls, courtyards, and historical artifacts.

Temple of Heaven: A masterpiece of Chinese architecture, this ancient temple complex served as a place of worship for emperors to pray for good harvests.

Summer Palace: A stunning ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces, the Summer Palace served as a retreat for emperors during the Qing dynasty.

Tiananmen Square: One of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is flanked by important landmarks such as the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

Cultural Sites:
Beijing Hutongs: Explore the narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard residences of Beijing's historic neighborhoods. You can take a rickshaw tour or simply wander around on foot.

Beijing Opera: Experience traditional Chinese opera performances at venues like the Liyuan Theater or the Chang'an Grand Theatre.

798 Art District: A hub of contemporary art and culture, this former industrial area is now home to numerous galleries, studios, and cafes.

Modern Attractions:
Olympic Park: Visit iconic structures such as the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

CBD (Central Business District): Marvel at the futuristic skyline of Beijing's modern business district, which includes landmarks like the CCTV Headquarters and the China World Trade Center Tower III.

Culinary Delights:
Peking Duck: Indulge in Beijing's most famous dish, crispy roast duck served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.

Street Food: Explore the city's vibrant street food scene and sample local delicacies like jianbing (savory crepes), lamb skewers, and dumplings.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. However, traffic can be heavy, so plan your travels accordingly.

Language: While English is not widely spoken, especially outside tourist areas, many signs and transportation announcements are in English. It's helpful to carry a translation app or a phrasebook.

Weather: Beijing experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. The best times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home and using both hands to pass or receive items.

Beijing offers a rich tapestry of experiences for tourists, blending ancient heritage with modern innovations. Whether you're fascinated by history, culture, or culinary delights, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.