Chinese New Year fireworks 2012, GuangZhou 广州

GuìZhōu is a mountainous province in south China known for its ancient rural villages and diverse ethnic minority groups, including the Miao, Bai and Dong. ZhaoXing village and YinTan village * JiangBang rice terraces * GaoHua village * XiaoWeng village * BiaSha village * ZhanLi village * LangDe village * JiDao Miao village * ShiQiao village * PaiMuo village *

At LanTau Island ...

With CoolVision ... With Wei's Travel ...

With Einar Tangen, CGTN ...

Tachuan is 5 km northeast of HongCun, on the way to HuangShan.

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.

"Meet the new 'boss'; same as the old 'boss'" ... (and who's the real boss ?) How long will this go on ... till most can see : that they've just been fooled again ... Only less than 1% of those who 'represent' us work for us; the rest work for the less than 1%.

With Blondie in China ... Visitor Guide to LanZhou, GanSu Province Overview LanZhou, the capital city of GanSu Province, is a major transportation and cultural hub located in the northwest of China. Famous for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and the iconic Yellow River, LanZhou offers a unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern development. Getting There By Air: LanZhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) is located about 70 kilometers from the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights. You can take an airport shuttle bus or a taxi to reach the city center. By Train: LanZhou is a major railway hub with connections to many cities across China. The LanZhou Railway Station and LanZhou West Railway Station serve both high-speed and regular trains. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect LanZhou to various cities in GanSu Province and beyond. The main bus stations are LanZhou East Bus Station and LanZhou West Bus Station. Getting Around Public Transport: LanZhou has an extensive bus network and a developing metro system. The metro is convenient for getting around the city quickly. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. Biking: LanZhou is bike-friendly, and bike-sharing services are popular and convenient for short trips. Main Attractions Zhongshan Bridge (Yellow River Iron Bridge) The Zhongshan Bridge, also known as the First Bridge over the Yellow River, is an iconic historical landmark. Built in 1907, it offers stunning views of the Yellow River and is a great spot for a leisurely walk. White Pagoda Mountain (Baita Mountain) White Pagoda Mountain provides a panoramic view of LanZhou and the Yellow River. The mountain is named after the White Pagoda Temple located on its summit. The temple and surrounding park are perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty. Gansu Provincial Museum This museum is a treasure trove of cultural relics and historical artifacts, showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of GanSu Province. Highlights include ancient Silk Road artifacts, fossils, and traditional Tibetan and Han exhibits. Waterwheel Garden The Waterwheel Garden is a unique park featuring large, traditional waterwheels that were once used for irrigation along the Yellow River. The park provides insight into the agricultural history of the region and is a pleasant place for a stroll. Bingling Temple Grottoes Located about 75 kilometers from LanZhou, the Bingling Temple Grottoes are renowned for their Buddhist cave carvings and statues, some dating back to the Western Qin dynasty. The grottoes are accessible by boat from the Liujiaxia Reservoir. Local Cuisine LanZhou is famous for its delicious and unique cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes: LanZhou Beef Noodles: Also known as "Lamian," these hand-pulled noodles are served in a flavorful beef broth with slices of tender beef, radish, and fresh herbs. Niang Pi: A cold noodle dish made from wheat or rice flour, often served with a spicy sauce and various toppings like cucumber and bean sprouts. Rou Jia Mo: Often referred to as the Chinese hamburger, it consists of a flatbread filled with seasoned, shredded meat. Yellow River Carp: Freshly caught from the Yellow River, this fish is typically braised or steamed and served with a savory sauce. Shopping Zhengning Road Night Market: A bustling night market offering a variety of local snacks, street food, and souvenirs. Xiguan Mosque Market: Located near the Xiguan Mosque, this market features ethnic Hui products, traditional handicrafts, and a variety of halal foods. Qilihe Market: A large wholesale market where you can find everything from clothing and electronics to fresh produce and household items. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Crowne Plaza LanZhou or the Wanda Vista LanZhou, both offering excellent amenities and service. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Ibis LanZhou Zhangye Road and the James Joyce Coffetel provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the LanZhou Lemon Tree Youth Hostel offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit LanZhou are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially in areas with significant Muslim Hui populations. Dress modestly and be mindful of dietary restrictions when dining out. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Stay Hydrated: LanZhou has a dry climate, so drink plenty of water, especially if you are hiking or spending time outdoors. Conclusion LanZhou, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient grottoes, savoring the famous beef noodles, or strolling along the Yellow River, LanZhou has something for every traveler. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of this fascinating city in GanSu Province.