Civilizations – the ‘West’ and the re-rise of China

Plus, Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor at night ...

The most southerly part of China, HaiNan is warm all year with a more or less tropical climate.

This section of the Great Wall of China is the closest to BeiJing city.

Carl Zha - "Century of Humiliation" ... On Malaysia ... Angelo Giuliano ...

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 Little Chinese Everywhere ... NanXun Water Town Travel Guide Introduction Nanxun Water Town, located in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, is one of the lesser-commercialized and best-preserved ancient water towns in China. Known for its elegant combination of traditional Chinese architecture and Western-style mansions, it offers a peaceful and authentic experience of Jiangnan’s waterways and history. How to Get There From Shanghai: Take a high-speed train to Huzhou (about 1 hour) and then a bus or taxi to Nanxun (around 30 minutes). From Hangzhou: A high-speed train to Huzhou takes about 30 minutes, followed by a local bus or taxi. From Suzhou: A direct bus from Suzhou South Bus Station takes about 1.5 hours. Main Attractions Xiaolian Zhuang (Little Lotus Garden) Originally the private garden of a wealthy merchant, this classical Chinese garden features a picturesque lotus pond, elegant pavilions, and stone bridges. Liu’s Family Compound A grand residence built by one of Nanxun’s richest families, showcasing a mix of European and traditional Chinese architectural styles. Baijian Lou (Hundred Houses Complex) A historic residential area with well-preserved white-walled houses lined along the canals, offering a glimpse into the lives of Nanxun’s past inhabitants. Jiaye Library One of China’s largest and most well-preserved private libraries, built in the late Qing Dynasty. The collection includes thousands of rare books and manuscripts. Ancient Stone Arch Bridges Several beautiful stone bridges span Nanxun’s canals, providing scenic spots for photography and quiet reflection. Things to Do Boat Tour: Take a wooden boat ride through the winding canals to enjoy the tranquil waterside scenery. Local Food: Try Nanxun’s specialties such as rice cakes, braised pork, and freshwater fish. Handicrafts: Visit local workshops to see traditional silk weaving and paper cutting. Photography: Capture the unique blend of old architecture and serene waterways. Best Time to Visit Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather, with blooming flowers and colorful foliage enhancing the town’s beauty. Practical Tips Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking along stone pathways and bridges. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to explore with fewer tourists and soft lighting. Cash is useful for small shops and local eateries, though some accept mobile payments. Conclusion Nanxun Water Town is a hidden gem offering a peaceful, culturally rich experience. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a scenic getaway, Nanxun is a fantastic destination that retains its authentic charm.

JūYōng Guān (JuYong Pass) is the nearest section of the Great Wall of China to Beijing - about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from the city center.

With Beijing Old Liu ... Welcome to the Temple of Heaven Explore the ancient beauty and cultural significance of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. Introduction The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing. It is renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance. Location The Temple of Heaven is located in the Dongcheng District of Beijing, easily accessible from various parts of the city. History The Temple of Heaven was constructed from 1406 to 1420 during the reign of the Yongle Emperor, who also oversaw the construction of the Forbidden City. The temple complex was used by the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for a good harvest. The temple complex was expanded and renovated during the reign of the Jiajing Emperor in the 16th century and again during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor in the 18th century. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. Attractions Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests: The iconic triple-gabled circular building, used by emperors to pray for good harvests. Imperial Vault of Heaven: A circular building surrounded by a smooth circular wall, famous for its Echo Wall. Circular Mound Altar: An open-air altar platform where the emperor would worship Heaven during the winter solstice. Seven Star Stones: A group of large stones with historical and cultural significance. Ancient Cypress Trees: The garden areas of the complex are home to many ancient cypress trees, some over 600 years old. Activities Historical Tours Cultural Performances Photography Guided Walks Seasonal Festivals and Events Facilities Visitor Center Restrooms Gift Shops Cafes and Restaurants Parking Lots Wheelchair Access Visitor Tips Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to stay for several hours. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Respect the cultural significance of the site; behave appropriately and follow all rules and guidelines.

An extended chill-out instrumental piece with elements of jazz, classical and prog-rock. Written by Uwe Müller. A very talented teen musician ...