China trip video series

With Clare Traveling Pandaland ... Tengchong, Yunnan Province: A Visitor's Guide Tengchong, located in the western part of Yunnan Province near the border with Myanmar, is a gem of natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and historical significance, it offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. How to Get There By Air: Tengchong Tuofeng Airport connects the city to major Chinese cities like Kunming and Chengdu. By Road: A scenic drive from Kunming takes around 8–10 hours by car or bus, passing through the mountainous Yunnan terrain. Top Attractions 1. Rehai Hot Springs Why Visit: Known as "Hot Sea," this geothermal area has over 80 hot spring pools, each with unique properties. Some are perfect for a relaxing soak, while others are too hot and are used for steaming food or traditional therapies. Don’t Miss: Try the therapeutic spa treatments or soak in an outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery. 2. Tengchong Volcanic Geothermal National Park Highlights: Home to dormant volcanic craters and lava fields, this park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. Activities: Climb up volcanoes like Dakongshan (Large Empty Mountain) for panoramic views, or explore the Lava Stone Forest. 3. Heshun Ancient Town Why Visit: A quaint town filled with cobbled streets, traditional Yunnan-style homes, and a rich history of overseas Chinese who returned home. Must-See: Visit the Heshun Library, one of the oldest private libraries in China, and explore the charming teahouses and ancestral halls. 4. Beihai Wetlands Overview: This serene area features floating meadows and diverse bird species. Activities: Take a boat ride through the wetlands or enjoy bird-watching during migratory seasons. 5. Yunfeng Mountain Why Visit: A sacred Taoist site with an ancient temple at its peak. What to Do: Hike or take a cable car up the mountain, then enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 6. Dianmian Anti-Japanese War Memorial Historical Importance: Tengchong was a key battleground during WWII. This memorial honors the local and international soldiers who fought against Japanese forces. What to See: Artifacts, photographs, and the reconstructed battle sites. Cultural Highlights Traditional Crafts: Tengchong is famous for its jade carving. Visit local workshops to see artisans at work or purchase unique jade jewelry. Ethnic Diversity: Experience the culture of the Bai, Dai, and Lisu ethnic groups through their festivals, dances, and cuisines. Local Cuisine Signature Dishes: Guoqiao Mixian (Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles): A flavorful noodle soup with a variety of toppings. Bamboo Rice: Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes. Tengchong Fried Pork: Crispy pork stir-fried with local spices. Mushroom Hotpot: A must-try with Yunnan’s diverse range of wild mushrooms. Snacks: Don’t miss the fengmi baba (honey glutinous rice cake) or fried potato balls. Best Time to Visit Spring and Autumn (March–May, September–November): These seasons offer mild weather and clear skies, perfect for outdoor exploration. Winter (December–February): Ideal for enjoying the hot springs, though mornings and evenings can be chilly. Shopping Jade and Gemstones: Tengchong is renowned for its high-quality jade. Look for authentic pieces in certified stores. Local Handicrafts: Embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and bamboo products make great souvenirs. Tea: Yunnan is known for its Pu’er and black teas, widely available in Tengchong. Practical Tips Language: Mandarin is widely spoken, though some locals speak Yunnan dialects. Learn a few basic phrases for ease of communication. Currency: Bring enough cash, as rural areas may not accept cards or digital payments. Transportation: Rent a bicycle or use tuk-tuks to explore small towns like Heshun. Clothing: Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate between day and night, especially in the mountains. Day Trips Ruili: A bustling border town with vibrant markets and a mix of Chinese and Burmese cultures. Myanmar Border: Visit the border towns to experience the unique blend of Chinese and Burmese influences. Tengchong is a destination that beautifully combines natural wonders, cultural depth, and historical significance, offering something for every traveler.

AnHui province.

With Walk East ...

Da Hai (Big Sea); preview; full release planned for 2012. An award winner at the Seoul International Cartoon & Animation Festival 2010. A film by B&T Studio (BeiJing). In Da Hai, viewers are acquainted with characters and deities who are charismatic, flippant, heartbroken, stoic, and all other manners appropriate for an epic fantasy about the emotional inclinations of gods and men ...

50 Small Eats Dishes in China Dumplings (饺子, jiǎozi) - Steamed or fried dough pockets filled with meat or vegetables. Spring Rolls (春卷, chūn juǎn) - Crispy rolls filled with vegetables and sometimes meat. Scallion Pancakes (葱油饼, cōng yóu bǐng) - Flaky, savory pancakes with scallions. Sticky Rice Dumplings (粽子, zòngzi) - Glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, usually with fillings like meat or beans. Soup Dumplings (小笼包, xiǎo lóng bāo) - Steamed dumplings filled with broth and meat. Sichuan Spicy Wontons (红油抄手, hóng yóu chāo shǒu) - Wontons in chili oil with a spicy sauce. Sesame Balls (煎堆, jiān duī) - Deep-fried glutinous rice balls coated in sesame seeds. Fried Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐, chòu dòufu) - Fermented tofu fried until crispy. Guokui (锅盔, guō kuī) - Crispy, pan-fried flatbread. Chinese Crepes (煎饼果子, jiān bǐng guǒzi) - Thin pancakes filled with savory ingredients. Roujiamo (肉夹馍, ròu jiá mó) - Chinese-style hamburger with shredded meat inside a flatbread. Tea Eggs (茶叶蛋, chá yè dàn) - Hard-boiled eggs marinated in tea and spices. Fried Dough Sticks (油条, yóutiáo) - Crispy fried dough sticks, often eaten with soy milk. Cold Noodles (凉面, liáng miàn) - Chilled noodles served with a savory sauce. Congee (粥, zhōu) - Rice porridge often served with various toppings. Baozi (包子, bāozi) - Steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables. Liangpi (凉皮, liángpí) - Cold noodles made from wheat or rice flour, served with spicy sauce. Jianbing (煎饼, jiānbing) - Savory Chinese crepe filled with egg, crispy cracker, and sauces. Fried Rice Balls (炸年糕, zhà nián gāo) - Crispy fried glutinous rice balls. Fried Mashed Taro (芋泥, yùní) - Mashed taro fried until golden and crispy. Lotus Root Stuffed with Sticky Rice (藕夹, ǒu jiá) - Sticky rice stuffed into hollowed-out lotus root slices. Chive Pockets (韭菜盒子, jiǔcài hézi) - Pan-fried dumplings filled with chives and sometimes eggs. Lamb Skewers (羊肉串, yángròu chuàn) - Grilled skewers of seasoned lamb. Steamed Buns (馒头, mántou) - Plain steamed bread often served with dishes. Fried Glutinous Rice Cakes (糍粑, cíbā) - Sticky rice cakes fried until crispy. Stuffed Tofu (香干, xiānggān) - Tofu pockets filled with meat or vegetables. Fried Pork Ribs (排骨, páigǔ) - Deep-fried marinated pork ribs. Shengjian Bao (生煎包, shēngjiān bāo) - Pan-fried buns filled with pork and soup. Spicy Cold Jelly (凉粉, liáng fěn) - Cold, chewy jelly noodles in spicy sauce. Pan-fried Pork Buns (生煎包, shēng jiān bāo) - Pan-fried buns with juicy pork filling. Fried Glutinous Rice Balls (炸年糕, zhà nián gāo) - Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside. Lamb Skewers (羊肉串, yángròu chuàn) - Grilled skewers of seasoned lamb. Green Onion Pancakes (葱油饼, cōng yóu bǐng) - Crispy pancakes flavored with green onions. Pork and Chive Dumplings (韭菜饺子, jiǔcài jiǎozi) - Dumplings filled with pork and chives. Steamed Custard Buns (流沙包, liúshā bāo) - Soft steamed buns filled with sweet custard. Hot and Sour Soup (酸辣汤, suān là tāng) - Spicy and tangy soup with mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots. Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (虾饺, xiā jiǎo) - Delicate dumplings filled with shrimp and bamboo shoots. Spicy Chicken Wings (辣子鸡翅, làzi jī chì) - Crispy fried chicken wings tossed in spicy seasoning. Spicy Cold Noodles (麻辣凉面, málà liáng miàn) - Chilled noodles in a spicy, numbing sauce. Cucumber Salad (拍黄瓜, pāi huángguā) - Refreshing salad of sliced cucumbers with garlic and vinegar dressing. Cold Tofu (冷豆腐, lěng dòufu) - Chilled silken tofu served with soy sauce and toppings. Fried Chicken Dumplings (炸鸡饺子, zhà jī jiǎozi) - Crispy dumplings filled with seasoned chicken. Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉面, niúròu miàn) - Hearty soup with tender beef slices and noodles. Cumin Lamb (孜然羊肉, zīrán yángròu) - Spicy stir-fried lamb seasoned with cumin and other spices. Steamed BBQ Pork Buns (叉烧包, chāshāo bāo) - Soft steamed buns filled with sweet barbecued pork. Cold Sesame Noodles (凉拌麻酱面, liángbàn májiàng miàn) - Noodles tossed in a savory sesame sauce. Spinach and Pork Wontons (菠菜猪肉馄饨, bōcài zhūròu húntún) - Wontons filled with spinach and ground pork. Fried Radish Cake (萝卜糕, luóbo gāo) - Pan-fried cakes made from shredded radish and rice flour. Shrimp Toast (虾多士, xiā duōshì) - Crispy bread topped with shrimp paste and sesame seeds. Red Bean Pancakes (红豆煎饼, hóngdòu jiān bǐng) - Sweet pancakes filled with red bean paste. Egg and Tomato Stir-fry (西红柿炒鸡蛋, xī hóng shì chǎo jī dàn) - Simple and delicious stir-fry of tomatoes and scrambled eggs. Spicy Stir-fried Egg and Chili Peppers (辣炒鸡蛋, là chǎo jī dàn) - Eggs stir-fried with spicy chili peppers. Potato, aubergine / egg-plant, and chili peppers (地三鲜, dì sān xiān) - Stir-fried dish featuring potatoes, eggplants, and chili peppers.

With Heretic1988 ... On the ongoing restoration efforts ... We do not recommend trying to hike here, because of the significant dangers involved, but enjoy the beautiful aerial film, and here's some information about the location. From the filmmaker : "Aerial photography of JianKou Great Wall, West Line-East Line (from Jiuyan Building in the west to Zhenbei Building in the east) is a complete record of all important nodes. It was like witnessing a miracle for the first time. The slender white lines of the white boulders whispered silently on the top of the towering peak, looking up at the huge city wall in front of them, and overlooking the steep curve that leaped up the ridge and spread endlessly, and the wind blew through the masonry. Passing through the gate of the enemy building, a piece of history pushes the dust under your feet to the legend of the ghostly craftsmanship on the mountain at the end of the line of sight, staggering forward, unable to tolerate half a moment of hesitation, faith is as strong as a rock, and it grows wildly between the cliffs, using humble courage to tighten Every stone crevice climbed cautiously, listening to a soul-stirring long song with a startled mind." Visitor Guide to JianKou Wild Great Wall of China, BeiJing Getting There Location: JianKou is a section of the Great Wall of China located in the Huairou District, about 73 kilometers north of BeiJing. By Public Transport: Take bus 916 or 936 from Dongzhimen Bus Station in BeiJing to Huairou, then transfer to a local minibus or hire a private car to Xizhazi Village, the starting point for hiking JianKou. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or hire a private car service from BeiJing. The drive takes about 2 hours. Hiking and Safety Tips Difficulty: The JianKou section is known for its steep and rugged terrain, making it suitable for experienced hikers. It is not recommended for beginners or those afraid of heights. Safety Gear: Wear sturdy hiking boots, and consider bringing gloves for climbing steep sections. A hiking stick can also be helpful. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip. Avoid hiking during rainy or snowy conditions, as the wall can become slippery and dangerous. Guides: Hiring a local guide is recommended for first-time visitors. Guides can provide valuable information about the trail and ensure your safety. Emergency Supplies: Carry plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged mobile phone. There are no facilities along the trail. Main Attractions Notable Sections and Towers The "Zhengbeilou" Watchtower: One of the highest points on the JianKou section, offering panoramic views of the Great Wall snaking through the mountains. This is a popular spot for photography. The "Ox Horn Edge" (Niujiaobian): A dramatic and steep section of the wall that looks like the shape of an ox horn. It is challenging to climb but rewards hikers with spectacular views. The "Sky Stairs" (Tianti): A nearly vertical section of steps that test the courage and stamina of hikers. This is one of the most thrilling parts of the JianKou hike. Natural Scenery Mountain Views: The JianKou section offers stunning views of lush mountains and valleys, especially during spring and autumn when the foliage is at its most vibrant. Wildflowers: In spring, the hillsides are covered with wildflowers, adding a burst of color to the rugged landscape. Photography: JianKou is a favorite spot for photographers due to its dramatic scenery and the wild, unrestored state of the wall. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful times for capturing photos. Nearby Attractions Mutianyu Great Wall: Located close to JianKou, the Mutianyu section is more restored and accessible, making it a good option for those who want a less strenuous hike. Beijing Huairou Scenic Area: Explore the scenic beauty of Huairou District, including rivers, mountains, and other historical sites. Dining and Accommodation While there are no dining facilities on the JianKou Great Wall itself, nearby villages and towns offer a variety of options: Local Restaurants: Enjoy traditional Chinese meals in local restaurants in Xizhazi Village and Huairou town. Dishes often feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Farm Stays: Experience rural life by staying in a local farmhouse. Many farm stays offer home-cooked meals and comfortable accommodations. Guesthouses: There are several guesthouses in the area, providing basic but comfortable lodging. Book in advance, especially during peak hiking seasons. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to hike JianKou are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Permits and Restrictions: Check for any necessary permits or restrictions before your visit. Some areas of the wall may be closed for conservation or safety reasons. Leave No Trace: Help preserve the natural beauty and historical significance of JianKou by carrying out all your trash and minimizing your impact on the environment. Conclusion The JianKou Wild Great Wall of China offers an unforgettable hiking experience with its breathtaking scenery, challenging trails, and rich history. Whether you're an avid hiker or a history enthusiast, JianKou provides a unique and rewarding adventure in BeiJing. Plan your visit carefully, respect the natural and historical sites, and enjoy the beauty of this wild and stunning section of the Great Wall.

Unfortunately, we've not so far been able to name the artists, but each is a delight. First, a music video by Unicorn Kids TV ... This 10 year old girl sigs 'To the Moon' 左手指月 (original movie track by Sa DingDing) ... This tiny tot really enjoys a drum set and plays with panache ... A teen '12 Girls Band' ...

With professor Ken Hammond ... Bonus film ...

With Brian Berletic / The New Atlas ... On the US drone strike in Syria that killed many civilians - with Democracy Now ... On Cambodia ... On China and the U.S. ... On Iran, with Democracy Now ... A documentary on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, November 22, 1963 ... On the 'diplomatic boycott' of the Beijing Winter Olympics by the 5-eyes imperialists ... On Julian Assange and the Uk to US extradition ... On Syria, with The Grayzone ... On Canada's 'boycott' of the BeiJing Winter Olympics - with numuves ... Meanwhile ... ShenZhou-13 - 1st space lecture from the TianGong Space Station 中国空间站天宫课堂第一课 ... High speed rail link to the BeiJing Winter Olympics ... ... more to come, as ever; so check back on this post later, and see all the updates in earlier parts ...