China 中国 in Motion, 2016

LiánYúnGǎng's tourist attractions include : Lian Island Resort, 连岛 A beautiful island connected to LianYun district by a 7 kilometer (4 miles) sea dyke, the longest in China. There are two main beach and swimming areas. Lian Island is also home to an annual music extravaganza that features some of China's most famous pop stars. Huaguo Mountain, 花果山

Bonus film - the world's longest sea bridge ...

Beautiful drone footage, like a dream ...

GuangDong Province Tour, China This itinerary covers a diverse range of experiences in GuangDong Province, including exploring the vibrant cities of GuangZhou and ShenZhen, discovering the cultural heritage of the Pearl River Delta region, and relaxing on the beaches and islands along the coast. Week 1: GuangZhou Explore the historic sites of Guangzhou, including Yuexiu Park, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. Indulge in Cantonese cuisine at local restaurants and street food stalls, sampling dishes like dim sum, roast goose, and clay pot rice. Shop for souvenirs and local specialties at markets like Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street and Qingping Market. Week 2: ShenZhen Discover the modern cityscape of Shenzhen, including landmarks like the Ping An Finance Centre and the Window of the World theme park. Explore cultural attractions such as the Dafen Oil Painting Village and the Shenzhen Museum. Experience Shenzhen's diverse culinary scene, with influences from all over China and the world. Week 3: Pearl River Delta Region Visit historic towns like Foshan, known for its traditional martial arts and ceramics. Explore the waterways of the Pearl River Delta, taking boat tours or cruises to see traditional villages and scenic landscapes. Sample local delicacies like Cantonese-style seafood and traditional snacks in the region's markets and eateries. Week 4: Coastal Cities and Islands Relax on the beaches of Zhuhai and enjoy water sports or leisurely walks along the coast. Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Hainan or Hong Kong for additional beach experiences and cultural exploration. Explore the maritime history and architecture of cities like Zhanjiang and Jiangmen.

With Ian Louis ... With Seiu Travel ... Visitor Guide to TaiHe River, TianJin Overview The TaiHe River, located in TianJin, is a picturesque waterway that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known for its serene landscapes and historical significance, the TaiHe River is a must-visit destination for those exploring TianJin. Getting There By Air: TianJin Binhai International Airport (TSN) is the nearest airport, located about 20 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or public bus to reach the TaiHe River area. By Train: TianJin Railway Station and TianJin West Railway Station offer convenient access to the city from major destinations across China. From the stations, you can take local transport to reach the river. By Bus: Long-distance buses from nearby cities and provinces also provide access to TianJin. The main bus stations in TianJin are TianJin Coach Terminal and TianJin West Coach Station. Getting Around Public Transport: TianJin has an extensive public transport network, including buses and a metro system, making it easy to navigate the city and reach the TaiHe River. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi are also widely used. Biking: Bike-sharing services provide a convenient way to explore the riverbanks and surrounding areas. Main Attractions Scenic Walkways The TaiHe River features well-maintained walkways along its banks, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding greenery. It's an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or simply relaxing by the river. Historical Bridges The river is spanned by several historical bridges, each with its own unique architecture and history. These bridges provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the engineering marvels of the past. Riverside Parks Several parks are located along the TaiHe River, including TaiHe Park and Haihe Cultural Square. These parks offer lush green spaces, recreational facilities, and picturesque spots for picnics and relaxation. Boat Rides Boat rides on the TaiHe River provide a unique perspective of the city and its landmarks. You can choose from various types of boats, including traditional wooden boats and modern yachts, to explore the river. Night View The TaiHe River is especially beautiful at night, when the bridges and buildings along the river are illuminated. A night cruise offers a magical experience, with the city's lights reflecting on the water. Local Cuisine While visiting the TaiHe River, you can enjoy a variety of local and regional dishes. Here are some recommendations: Goubuli Baozi: TianJin's famous steamed buns, known for their delicate flavor and intricate folds. Erduoyan Zhagao: A traditional TianJin snack made of glutinous rice and red bean paste, fried to perfection. Jianbing: A popular Chinese street food, similar to a savory crepe, filled with egg, scallions, cilantro, and crispy wonton strips. Shopping Ancient Culture Street: A vibrant pedestrian street offering traditional Chinese handicrafts, antiques, and souvenirs. BinJiang Dao Commercial Street: A modern shopping area with a wide range of international and local brands, perfect for a shopping spree. HePing Lu Shopping District: Known for its department stores and specialty shops, this district is a shopper's paradise. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: TianJin has several high-end hotels offering excellent amenities and services, such as the Ritz-Carlton TianJin and the St. Regis TianJin. Mid-Range Hotels: There are numerous mid-range options providing comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, including international chains like Marriott and local boutique hotels. Budget Accommodations: Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels throughout the city. Historical Background of TaiHe River The TaiHe River, also known as the "Peace River," has played a significant role in the history and development of TianJin. The river has been a vital waterway for trade, transportation, and cultural exchange for centuries. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the TaiHe River was an essential part of the Grand Canal, facilitating the movement of goods and people between northern and southern China. The river's strategic location contributed to TianJin's growth as a major commercial and trading hub. In modern times, the TaiHe River has become a focal point for urban development and tourism. Efforts to beautify and preserve the river have made it a popular destination for both locals and visitors, blending the city's rich history with its vibrant present. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit the TaiHe River are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. Bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan to spend time outdoors. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting cultural and historical sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: The TaiHe River offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Plan your visit to include both leisurely activities and sightseeing to fully appreciate the area's offerings. Conclusion The TaiHe River in TianJin, with its scenic walkways, historical bridges, and vibrant parks, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, enjoying a boat ride, or exploring the city's rich history, the TaiHe River provides a serene and memorable escape. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time in this picturesque and historically significant area of TianJin.

With Sam and Victor ...

Mount Hua, or HuaShan, is one of China's Five Great Mountains, renowned for its steep trails, breathtaking views, and significant Taoist history. Located in Shaanxi Province, near the city of Huayin, Huashan attracts adventurers and pilgrims alike. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Huashan. Top Attractions The Five Peaks of Huashan Mount Hua consists of five main peaks, each offering unique scenery and experiences: East Peak (Zhaoyang Peak): Known as the "Sunrise Peak," it is the best spot to watch the sunrise. West Peak (Lianhua Peak): Also called the "Lotus Peak," it is famous for its striking rock formations that resemble a lotus flower. South Peak (Luoyan Peak): The highest of the five peaks at 2,154 meters, offering panoramic views. North Peak (Yuntai Peak): Known as the "Cloud Terrace Peak," it serves as the starting point for many hikes. Central Peak (Yunv Peak): Also known as the "Jade Maiden Peak," it is named after a Taoist legend. Huashan Plank Walk The Huashan Plank Walk is one of the most thrilling attractions on the mountain. The narrow wooden walkway is attached to the sheer cliff face of the South Peak, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience and stunning views. Chess Pavilion Perched on a precarious rock, the Chess Pavilion is a small structure with legendary associations. According to legend, it is where a deity played chess with a mortal. Taoist Temples Mount Hua is home to several ancient Taoist temples, including the Jade Spring Temple at the base of the mountain and the Yuquan Temple. These temples are important pilgrimage sites and offer a glimpse into the mountain's spiritual significance. Geology of Huashan Mount Hua is part of the Qinling Mountain range and is primarily composed of granite. The mountain's distinctive steep slopes and sharp peaks are the result of tectonic uplift and erosion over millions of years. The granite rock faces provide both a dramatic landscape and a challenging environment for climbers. Touring Huashan Planning Your Visit Visiting Huashan requires careful planning due to its challenging terrain and the variety of routes available. A typical visit can take one to two days, depending on the routes and peaks you choose to explore. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: North Peak and the Plank Walk Morning: Take the cable car from the East Gate to the North Peak. Spend the morning exploring the North Peak and its surrounding trails. Afternoon: Head towards the South Peak for the Huashan Plank Walk. Ensure you have the proper safety gear and follow all safety instructions. Evening: Consider spending the night on the mountain at one of the guesthouses or temples to experience the sunrise from one of the peaks. Day 2: The Five Peaks Early Morning: Watch the sunrise from the East Peak. Mid-Morning: Hike to the Central Peak, then continue to the West Peak to see the Lotus Flower Rock. Afternoon: Ascend to the South Peak, the highest peak, for panoramic views. Descend back to the North Peak and take the cable car down. Activities and Experiences Hiking Huashan offers challenging hikes with rewarding views. Trails are steep and can be narrow, requiring a good level of fitness and caution. Popular routes include the ascent from the East Gate to the North Peak and the circular route covering the five peaks. Photography The dramatic landscapes of Huashan provide excellent opportunities for photography. Key spots include the sunrise from the East Peak, the Plank Walk on the South Peak, and the panoramic views from the highest point. Local Cuisine After a day of hiking, try local Shaanxi cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Specialties include biangbiang noodles, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and various dumplings. There are several restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain and near the East Gate. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Huashan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the views are clear. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy, making some trails hazardous. Getting There Huashan is accessible by train, bus, and car. The nearest major city is Xi'an, from where you can take a high-speed train to Huashan North Railway Station. From there, shuttle buses or taxis can take you to the mountain's entrances. Accommodation Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels in Huayin City. For a unique experience, consider staying overnight on the mountain in a guesthouse or temple. This allows you to catch the sunrise from one of the peaks. Tickets and Passes Purchase entrance tickets at the mountain's gates. There are separate tickets for the cable cars and the Plank Walk. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore all five peaks. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the mountain's history, culture, and geology. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.

With Walk East ...

A beautiful and creative short film by Francis So ...