China’s Mega Projects (1/5) : Manufacturing

XiaMen No. 6 High School. FuJian province. First song - Brightest Star in the Sky ...

The beautiful outdoor show in HangZhou, ZheJiang province ...

With Blondie in China. Part 1 - all about 'noodles' (more videos soon) ...

In the West, poverty is tolerated; some say even necessary. China, however, aimed to end this once and for all. Today, China is almost at the point of eradicating poverty. Let's take a look at how it was achieved ...

With Ben Cubbage ... Welcome to Langmusi - A Serene Tibetan Village in GanSu Province Introduction Top Attractions Activities Local Culture Local Cuisine Visitor Tips Getting There Introduction Langmusi, also known as Taktsang Lhamo in Tibetan, is a picturesque village nestled in the Tibetan Grasslands, straddling the border between GanSu and SiChuan provinces. Known for its serene beauty, Langmusi is a spiritual haven and an important cultural hub for the Tibetan people. The village is surrounded by rolling grasslands, majestic mountains, and crystal-clear rivers, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Langmusi is famous for its Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant Tibetan culture. It serves as a gateway to the vast Tibetan Plateau and is a popular destination for travelers seeking peace, spirituality, and a deeper connection with nature. Despite its remote location, Langmusi has retained its traditional charm and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetan people. Top Attractions Sertri Monastery Sertri Monastery, also known as Taktsang Lhamo Kirti Gompa, is one of the two main monasteries in Langmusi. Located on the northern side of the village, this monastery is an important center for Tibetan Buddhism and is home to hundreds of monks. The monastery's stunning architecture, intricate murals, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Tibetan culture and spirituality. Visitors can attend prayer sessions, observe daily rituals, and explore the monastery's various halls and chapels. Kerti Monastery Kerti Monastery, also known as Kirti Gompa, is the second major monastery in Langmusi. Situated on the southern side of the village, Kerti Monastery is slightly smaller but equally significant. The monastery is known for its vibrant religious festivals, where monks and locals gather to celebrate with colorful processions, music, and dance. The surrounding area is also ideal for short hikes, offering panoramic views of the village and the surrounding grasslands. Namo Gorge Namo Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder located just outside Langmusi. This narrow gorge is carved by the Bailong River and is flanked by towering cliffs and dense forests. A walk through the gorge offers a peaceful retreat into nature, with the sound of the river, the chirping of birds, and the scent of wildflowers filling the air. The gorge is also home to several meditation caves used by monks, adding to its spiritual significance. Sky Burial Site The Sky Burial Site in Langmusi is a unique and culturally significant place where traditional Tibetan sky burials are conducted. This ancient funerary practice involves placing the deceased on a mountaintop to be consumed by vultures, symbolizing the cycle of life and death in Tibetan Buddhism. While tourists are generally not allowed to observe the ceremonies out of respect, the site is an important aspect of Tibetan culture and spirituality, and its location offers a serene view of the surrounding landscape. Activities Hiking and Trekking: Langmusi is a paradise for hikers and trekkers, with numerous trails leading through the Tibetan Grasslands, mountains, and valleys. Popular routes include hikes to Namo Gorge, visits to meditation caves, and treks to nearby Tibetan nomad camps. Horseback Riding: Experience the traditional Tibetan way of life by exploring the grasslands on horseback. Local guides offer horseback riding tours that take you through scenic landscapes and offer insights into the nomadic culture of the region. Cultural Tours: Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture by visiting local monasteries, attending prayer sessions, and learning about Buddhist rituals and traditions. Cultural tours often include visits to both Sertri and Kerti Monasteries, as well as interactions with local monks. Photography: Langmusi's stunning landscapes, traditional Tibetan architecture, and vibrant culture make it a photographer's dream. Capture the beauty of the grasslands, the serenity of the monasteries, and the daily life of the Tibetan people. Stargazing: Due to its remote location and high altitude, Langmusi offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. On clear nights, the sky is filled with countless stars, making it an ideal place to connect with the cosmos. Local Culture Langmusi is deeply rooted in Tibetan culture, and visitors to the village will have the opportunity to experience the rich traditions, spirituality, and way of life of the Tibetan people. The village is home to both Tibetans and Hui Muslims, and the blend of cultures adds to the unique charm of the area. Tibetan Buddhism plays a central role in the daily life of the villagers, and the two main monasteries, Sertri and Kerti, are integral to the spiritual and cultural fabric of Langmusi. Festivals and religious ceremonies are celebrated with great enthusiasm, and visitors may have the chance to witness colorful processions, traditional music, and sacred dances. The Tibetan nomadic culture is also prevalent in the surrounding grasslands, where nomads live in traditional tents and herd yaks and sheep. Visitors can learn about the nomadic way of life, including their customs, clothing, and food, by visiting nomad camps or interacting with local families. Local Cuisine The cuisine in Langmusi is a reflection of its Tibetan heritage, with hearty dishes that are well-suited to the high-altitude environment. Some must-try dishes include: Yak Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made from yak butter, salt, and tea leaves. It has a unique flavor and is often consumed to provide warmth and energy in the cold climate. Tsampa: A staple food in Tibetan cuisine, tsampa is made from roasted barley flour and is often mixed with yak butter tea to form a dough-like consistency. It is a versatile dish that can be eaten at any time of day. Yak Meat Dishes: Yak meat is a common ingredient in Tibetan cuisine, and it is often used in stews, dumplings, and stir-fries. The meat is flavorful and rich, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Momos: Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy dipping sauce. Momos are a popular snack and are often enjoyed with tea. Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup made with meat, vegetables, and sometimes yak butter. Thukpa is a warming dish that is perfect for the cool climate of Langmusi. Visitor Tips Altitude Awareness: Langmusi is located at an altitude of over 3,300 meters (10,827 feet), so it's important to be aware of altitude sickness. Take time to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity in the first few days. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Langmusi is from May to October when the weather is milder and the grasslands are lush and green. Winter can be extremely cold, with heavy snowfall making travel difficult. Respect Local Customs: Langmusi is a deeply spiritual place, so it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting monasteries, and ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Stay on Designated Paths: When exploring the grasslands and surrounding nature, stick to designated paths to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem and to ensure your safety. Language: While Mandarin is spoken in Langmusi, many locals, particularly older residents and monks, speak Tibetan. Learning a few basic phrases in Tibetan can enhance your experience and help you connect with the local community. Getting There Langmusi is located in a remote area, but it is accessible by several means: By Air: The nearest airport is Xiahe/Gannan Airport, which is about 90 km (56 miles) from Langmusi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the village. Flights to Xiahe/Gannan Airport are available from major cities such as ChengDu and Xi'An. By Bus: Buses run regularly from nearby towns such as HeZuO, XiaHe, and LuQu to Langmusi. The bus ride offers scenic views of the Tibetan Plateau and is an affordable option for reaching the village. By Car: Renting a car or hiring a private driver is a convenient way to reach Langmusi, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. The drive from HeZuO to Langmusi takes about 4 hours and offers stunning views of the grasslands and mountains. By Train: The nearest major train station is in Lanzhou, GanSu's capital. From Lanzhou, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Langmusi. The journey from Lanzhou takes approximately 8-10 hours.

YuYuan Garden ... XinTianDi ... NanJing Road ... The Bund (WaiTan) ...

The ONLY time for division, is between the positive and the negative. Repeat every night; and every morning. With the Barrett channel ... With LaowaiNiko ... With Jerry Goode ... Bonus film - democracy in China, with Jerry's Take on China ... With Living in China ... In China, the people are family. In the West, the people are livestock. Individualism is the ultimate 'divide and rule'. Bonus films ...

Places to visit in and around NanJing Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum (中山陵) - Zhōngshān Líng Description: Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum is a memorial site dedicated to the founding father of the Republic of China, located at the foot of Purple Mountain. Visitors can climb the grand staircase to reach the mausoleum, explore the surrounding parkland, and pay homage to Dr. Sun Yat-sen at his final resting place. Confucius Temple (夫子庙) - Fūzǐ Miào Description: Confucius Temple is a historic complex dedicated to the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius. The temple features traditional architecture, tranquil courtyards, and cultural relics, as well as bustling markets, teahouses, and street performances. Visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere and pay tribute to Confucius' teachings and legacy. Nanjing City Wall (南京城墙) - Nánjīng Chéngqiáng Description: Nanjing City Wall is one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, dating back over 600 years. Visitors can walk or cycle along the wall's ramparts, gates, and watchtowers, enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding scenery. The wall offers insights into Nanjing's rich history and architectural heritage. Xuanwu Lake (玄武湖) - Xuánwǔ Hú Description: Xuanwu Lake is a scenic freshwater lake located in the heart of Nanjing, surrounded by parks, gardens, and historic landmarks. Visitors can take leisurely boat cruises, stroll along lakeside promenades, and enjoy recreational activities such as cycling, picnicking, and birdwatching amidst serene natural surroundings. Jiming Temple (鸡鸣寺) - Jīmíng Sì Description: Jiming Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple perched on the slopes of Purple Mountain, offering panoramic views of Nanjing. The temple complex features ancient pagodas, halls, and gardens, as well as cultural relics and religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the tranquil grounds, attend Buddhist ceremonies, and admire the temple's architectural beauty. Nanjing Museum (南京博物院) - Nánjīng Bówùyuàn Description: Nanjing Museum is one of China's largest and most comprehensive museums, showcasing the history, art, and culture of Nanjing and the Jiangsu province. The museum's extensive collections include archaeological artifacts, fine art, ceramics, and cultural relics, as well as interactive exhibits, educational programs, and temporary exhibitions. Presidential Palace (总统府) - Zǒngtǒng Fǔ Description: Presidential Palace is a historic complex serving as the former official residence of Chinese presidents. The palace features traditional Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and historical exhibitions, offering insights into China's modern history and political developments. Visitors can explore the ornate halls, courtyards, and memorial halls, as well as attend cultural events and performances. Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge (南京长江大桥) - Nánjīng Chángjiāng Dàqiáo Description: Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is a landmark bridge spanning the Yangtze River, connecting the districts of Pukou and Xiaguan. The bridge offers panoramic views of the river, city skyline, and surrounding landscapes, as well as opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the scenic riverfront. Porcelain Tower of Nanjing (南京瓷塔) - Nánjīng Cítǎ Description: Porcelain Tower of Nanjing is a historic pagoda renowned for its exquisite architecture and ornate porcelain decorations. Originally built in the 15th century, the pagoda was reconstructed in the 21st century and now serves as a cultural landmark and museum. Visitors can admire the pagoda's intricate design, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views from the top. Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵) - Míng Xiàolíng Description: Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress. Located at the foot of Purple Mountain, the mausoleum complex features grand gateways, sacred pathways, and ancient stone sculptures, as well as serene forested surroundings ideal for contemplation and reflection. Nanjing Drum Tower (南京鼓楼) - Nánjīng Gǔlóu Description: Nanjing Drum Tower is a historic landmark dating back to the Ming Dynasty, located in the heart of Nanjing's city center. The tower once served as a military command post and timekeeping facility, and today houses a museum showcasing Nanjing's cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about the tower's history and significance. Xiaoling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty (明孝陵) - Míng Xiàolíng Description: Xiaoling Tomb is the burial site of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress. Located at the foot of Purple Mountain, the tomb complex encompasses grand gateways, pathways, and scenic gardens, as well as historical artifacts and sculptures. Visitors can explore the serene surroundings, pay respects to the Ming Dynasty's founder, and learn about imperial burial customs. Nanjing Museum of Paleontology (南京古生物博物馆) - Nánjīng Gǔshēngwù Bówùguǎn Description: Nanjing Museum of Paleontology is dedicated to the study and exhibition of fossils and prehistoric artifacts. The museum's collections include dinosaur fossils, ancient plants, and geological specimens, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs exploring Earth's natural history and evolution. Nanjing Presidential Palace (南京总统府) - Nánjīng Zǒngtǒng Fǔ Description: Nanjing Presidential Palace is a historic complex serving as the former official residence of Chinese presidents. The palace features traditional Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and historical exhibitions, offering insights into China's modern history and political developments. Visitors can explore the ornate halls, courtyards, and memorial halls, as well as attend cultural events and exhibitions. Jiming Temple Scenic Area (鸡鸣寺风景名胜区) - Jīmíng Sì Fēngjǐng Míngshèng Qū Description: Jiming Temple Scenic Area encompasses the historic Jiming Temple complex, as well as surrounding parks, gardens, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore ancient temples, pagodas, and stone inscriptions, as well as enjoy scenic walks, cultural performances, and panoramic views of Nanjing's skyline. Mochou Lake Park (莫愁湖公园) - Mòchóu Hú Gōngyuán Description: Mochou Lake Park is a scenic parkland surrounding Mochou Lake, offering a tranquil retreat amidst Nanjing's urban landscape. Visitors can stroll along lakeside promenades, admire seasonal flowers and gardens, and enjoy recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. The park also features cultural attractions, pavilions, and historic sites. Nanjing Drum Tower (南京鼓楼) - Nánjīng Gǔlóu Description: Nanjing Drum Tower is a historic landmark located in the heart of Nanjing's city center, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The tower once served as a military command post and timekeeping facility, and today houses a museum showcasing Nanjing's cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about the tower's history and significance. Porcelain Tower Site Park (瓷塔遗址公园) - Cítǎ Yízhǐ Gōngyuán Description: Porcelain Tower Site Park is a historic site commemorating the location of the former Porcelain Tower of Nanjing, a renowned pagoda destroyed during the Qing Dynasty. The park features archaeological remains, cultural exhibits, and reconstructed pagoda foundations, as well as landscaped gardens, sculptures, and panoramic views of Nanjing's skyline. Nanjing Botanical Garden (南京植物园) - Nánjīng Zhíwù Yuán Description: Nanjing Botanical Garden is a vast botanical reserve featuring diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and natural habitats. Visitors can explore walking trails, greenhouses, and scenic viewpoints, as well as participate in educational programs, workshops, and gardening activities. The garden also hosts seasonal flower shows, plant exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year. Qinhuai River Scenic Area (秦淮风光带) - Qínhuái Fēngguāng Dài Description: Qinhuai River Scenic Area is a historic waterfront district renowned for its cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and traditional architecture. Visitors can take leisurely boat cruises along the river, explore ancient streets and alleys, and admire historic landmarks such as Confucius Temple, Nanjing City Wall, and Zhonghua Gate. The area also offers opportunities for shopping, dining, and experiencing Nanjing's vibrant nightlife. Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (南京大屠杀纪念馆) - Nánjīng Dàtúshā Jìniànguǎn Description: Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall is a somber memorial dedicated to the victims of the Nanjing Massacre during World War II. The memorial hall features historical exhibits, documentary films, and testimonies from survivors, as well as educational programs and activities promoting peace, reconciliation, and remembrance.