DaXin County, GuangXi 广西 province – karst peaks near MingShi and DeTian Falls

Two CGTN Travelogue episodes with Megan Zhang. Megan looks at the history and modernity of ChongQing hot pot and the modern transport links that connect together this city in the mountainous hills ...

Beautiful city-scapes ...

Impression LiJiang is a one hour, open-air musical based on local folklore and song, directed by famed film director Zhang YiMou, with Wang ChaoGe and Fan Yue. Featuring a cast of over 500 performers, it is staged in front of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in YunNan province. The most famous music item is the Naxi song 'Return Home'.

Huangshan, also known as the Yellow Mountains, is a renowned mountain range in southern Anhui Province. Famous for its stunning granite peaks, ancient pine trees, hot springs, and the mystical sea of clouds, Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for tourists and photographers. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Huangshan. Top Attractions The Five Peaks of Huangshan Huangshan features several notable peaks, each offering unique scenery and experiences: Lotus Peak (Lianhua Peak): The highest peak at 1,864 meters, providing panoramic views and a challenging climb. Bright Summit (Guangming Ding): Known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Celestial Capital Peak (Tiandu Peak): Famous for its steep, narrow paths and stunning vistas. Purple Cloud Peak (Ziyun Peak): Offers a unique perspective of the mountain range. Beginning-to-Believe Peak (Shixin Peak): Known for its dense pine trees and excellent viewpoints. Sea of Clouds The Sea of Clouds is one of Huangshan's most spectacular phenomena. This natural wonder occurs when fog envelops the valleys and lower peaks, leaving the higher peaks to appear as islands floating in a white sea. Hot Springs The hot springs at the foot of Huangshan are famous for their therapeutic properties. The springs have been a popular attraction for centuries and provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of hiking. Pine Trees The ancient pine trees of Huangshan are known for their unique shapes and resilience, often growing out of rocky crevices. The most famous of these is the Greeting Pine (Ying Ke Song), which appears to welcome visitors with its outstretched branches. Flying-Over Rock This balanced rock is perched precariously on a narrow ledge and is a popular spot for photography. The rock appears to defy gravity and offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks. Geology of Huangshan Huangshan's distinctive landscape is primarily composed of granite, which has been shaped by millions of years of geological activity. The mountain's sharp peaks, deep valleys, and unique rock formations are the result of tectonic uplift and erosion. The granite's resistance to weathering has created the dramatic, jagged peaks that characterize the region. Touring Huangshan Planning Your Visit A visit to Huangshan typically takes two to three days to fully appreciate the main highlights. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Arriving and Initial Exploration Morning: Arrive at Huangshan and take the Yungu Cable Car to the top. Check into a mountain hotel to drop off your luggage. Afternoon: Explore the Beginning-to-Believe Peak and enjoy the stunning views and unique pine trees. Evening: Watch the sunset from Bright Summit. Day 2: Main Peaks and Scenic Areas Early Morning: Wake up early to catch the sunrise from Bright Summit. Mid-Morning: Hike to Lotus Peak, the highest peak, for panoramic views. Afternoon: Visit Flying-Over Rock and take in the stunning views of the sea of clouds if conditions are right. Evening: Relax at the mountain hotel or explore more of the scenic spots at a leisurely pace. Day 3: Descending and Hot Springs Morning: Take the Yungu Cable Car down to the base of the mountain. Mid-Morning: Visit the hot springs at the base of the mountain for a relaxing soak. Afternoon: Explore the nearby ancient villages such as Hongcun or Xidi before departing. Activities and Experiences Hiking Huangshan offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The trails are well-marked and offer breathtaking views at every turn. Popular routes include the circular path that covers the major peaks and the hike from the base to the summit. Photography The dramatic landscapes of Huangshan provide endless opportunities for photography. Key spots include the Sea of Clouds, the unique pine trees, and the panoramic views from the peaks. Local Cuisine After a day of hiking, enjoy local Anhui cuisine, known for its use of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Specialties include stinky tofu, mandarin fish, and bamboo shoots. There are several restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain and near the cable car stations. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Huangshan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter offers fewer tourists and the chance to see the mountains covered in snow. Getting There Huangshan is accessible by train, bus, and air. The nearest city is Huangshan City (Tunxi), from where you can take a bus or taxi to the mountain. Huangshan Tunxi International Airport has flights from major Chinese cities, and the Huangshan North Railway Station is connected to the high-speed rail network. Accommodation Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels in Huangshan City and near the mountain. For a unique experience, consider staying overnight on the mountain in a guesthouse or hotel, which allows you to catch the sunrise and sunset from the peaks. Tickets and Passes Purchase entrance tickets at the mountain's gates. There are separate tickets for the cable cars and hot springs. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore all the main peaks and scenic areas. 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 Qingyunji ... Fanjing Mountain, located in Tongren City, Guizhou Province, is a stunning natural and cultural landmark known for its unique landscapes, biodiversity, and spiritual significance. Here's a detailed overview of Fanjing Mountain: ### Location and Overview - **Location**: Fanjing Mountain is situated in the Wuling Mountain range in Tongren City, northeastern Guizhou Province, China. - **Elevation**: The highest peak of Fanjing Mountain reaches an elevation of 2,570 meters (8,430 feet) above sea level. - **UNESCO World Heritage Site**: In 2018, Fanjing Mountain was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich biodiversity and unique geological features. ### Natural Beauty and Biodiversity 1. **Unique Geological Formations**: Fanjing Mountain is characterized by its distinctive rock formations, including the Red Cloud Golden Summit (HongYun JinDing), Mushroom Stone, and Old Golden Summit (LaoJinDing). These formations offer breathtaking views and are popular among photographers and nature enthusiasts. 2. **Biodiversity Hotspot**: The mountain is a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous rare and endemic species. The area is particularly noted for its diverse plant life, including ancient ginkgo trees, fir forests, and a variety of medicinal herbs. 3. **Endangered Species**: Fanjing Mountain provides habitat for several endangered animal species, such as the Guizhou snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus brelichi), Chinese giant salamander, and various rare birds and insects. ### Spiritual and Cultural Significance 1. **Buddhist Heritage**: Fanjing Mountain is one of the sacred Buddhist mountains in China. It is considered a place of enlightenment and has a long history of Buddhist worship. The mountain is associated with Maitreya Buddha (the future Buddha). 2. **Temples and Monasteries**: There are several ancient temples and monasteries on the mountain, including the Shizhong Temple and the Cheng’en Temple. These religious sites attract pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a peaceful and spiritual retreat. 3. **Pilgrimage Destination**: The mountain's spiritual significance makes it a popular pilgrimage destination for Buddhists, especially during religious festivals and important Buddhist dates. ### Tourist Attractions and Activities 1. **Hiking and Trekking**: Fanjing Mountain offers numerous hiking and trekking trails that cater to various levels of difficulty. The trails provide stunning views of the natural scenery and access to the mountain’s unique rock formations and temples. 2. **Cable Cars**: For those who prefer a less strenuous visit, cable cars are available to take visitors up to the scenic areas and major viewpoints, offering a comfortable and scenic ride. 3. **Panoramic Views**: The Golden Summit, one of the most famous peaks, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The sight of the sunrise and sunset from this vantage point is particularly spectacular. 4. **Photography**: The unique landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and ancient temples make Fanjing Mountain a paradise for photographers. ### Conservation Efforts 1. **Protected Area**: Fanjing Mountain is part of a protected nature reserve, which helps to preserve its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. 2. **Sustainable Tourism**: Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices that minimize the impact on the natural environment and local communities while enhancing the visitor experience. ### Visitor Information 1. **Best Time to Visit**: The best time to visit Fanjing Mountain is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. 2. **Accessibility**: Fanjing Mountain can be accessed via Tongren, which is connected to major cities in China by train and air. From Tongren, visitors can take buses or taxis to the mountain’s entrance. 3. **Accommodation**: There are various accommodation options available, ranging from hotels in Tongren to guesthouses and inns near the mountain. ### Conclusion Fanjing Mountain in Guizhou is a place of extraordinary natural beauty and cultural significance. With its unique geological formations, rich biodiversity, and profound spiritual heritage, it offers a diverse and enriching experience for nature lovers, hikers, pilgrims, and tourists. The mountain’s combination of stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and ancient temples makes it a must-visit destination in China.

With China Road Tales ...

With JetLag Warriors and Ken Abroad ...

With Vegan in China ... With GoYvon ... Vegan Food in China Introduction China is a vast country with a rich culinary history, and it offers a variety of delicious vegan options. From traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine to modern plant-based dishes, vegan travelers will find a wide range of flavors and textures to enjoy. This guide explores the vegan food scene in China, highlighting popular dishes, regional specialties, and tips for finding vegan-friendly restaurants. Traditional Vegan Dishes Many traditional Chinese dishes are naturally vegan or can be easily modified to suit a vegan diet. Here are some popular vegan dishes you can find throughout China: Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) Mapo Tofu is a spicy and flavorful dish made with soft tofu, fermented black beans, and a chili sauce. While the traditional version often includes minced meat, you can find vegan versions at many restaurants or request it without meat. Buddha's Delight (罗汉斋) Buddha's Delight is a popular vegetarian dish in Chinese Buddhist cuisine. It consists of a variety of vegetables, tofu, and sometimes mushrooms, all stir-fried in a savory sauce. This dish is often served during Chinese New Year and other festive occasions. Jiaozi (饺子) Jiaozi, or dumplings, can be found with various vegan fillings such as mushrooms, cabbage, and tofu. These delicious dumplings are often steamed or boiled and served with a soy-based dipping sauce. Stir-Fried Vegetables (炒青菜) Stir-fried vegetables are a staple in Chinese cuisine and can be easily found in almost any restaurant. Common vegetables used include bok choy, spinach, broccoli, and snow peas, all stir-fried with garlic and a light soy sauce. Regional Specialties Sichuan Cuisine Sichuan cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors. Many dishes can be made vegan by substituting meat with tofu or vegetables. Look for dishes like Sichuan Hot Pot with vegetable broth and an array of vegetables, or Kung Pao Tofu, a spicy stir-fry with peanuts and vegetables. Cantonese Cuisine Cantonese cuisine features lighter flavors and fresh ingredients. Popular vegan options include Dim Sum with vegetable fillings, stir-fried greens, and Congee, a rice porridge that can be made with mushrooms and other vegetables. Shandong Cuisine Shandong cuisine is known for its hearty and savory dishes. Vegan options include stir-fried tofu, vegetable stews, and steamed buns filled with vegetables. Shandong cuisine also features a variety of soups made with vegetables and grains. Finding Vegan-Friendly Restaurants While many traditional Chinese restaurants offer vegan options, there are also specialized vegetarian and vegan restaurants in major cities. Here are some tips for finding vegan-friendly places to eat: Use Apps: Apps like HappyCow can help you find vegan and vegetarian restaurants in China. These apps often include reviews and recommendations from other travelers. Learn Key Phrases: Knowing a few key phrases in Mandarin can be helpful when ordering food. For example, "wǒ chī sù" (我吃素) means "I eat vegetarian" and "bù yào ròu" (不要肉) means "no meat". Visit Buddhist Temples: Many Buddhist temples have vegetarian restaurants that serve delicious vegan meals. These are often affordable and offer a peaceful dining experience. Ask for Modifications: Don't hesitate to ask for modifications to make a dish vegan. Most restaurants are accommodating and can make adjustments to suit your dietary needs. Vegan Snacks and Street Food China's street food scene is vibrant and offers many vegan-friendly options. Here are some popular vegan snacks and street foods to try: Sesame Balls (麻团) Sesame balls are deep-fried pastries made with glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet red bean paste. They are coated in sesame seeds, giving them a crunchy texture and a sweet flavor. Spring Rolls (春卷) Spring rolls are a popular snack made with thin pastry wrappers filled with vegetables and sometimes tofu. They are usually deep-fried to a crispy golden brown and served with a dipping sauce. Grilled Vegetables (烤蔬菜) Many street vendors offer grilled vegetables, such as corn on the cob, mushrooms, and bell peppers. These are often seasoned with a mix of spices and grilled to perfection. Tofu Skewers (豆腐串) Tofu skewers are a popular street food snack made with marinated tofu chunks grilled on skewers. They are often seasoned with chili and cumin, giving them a spicy and savory flavor. Vegan Grocery Shopping In addition to dining out, you can also find a variety of vegan products in grocery stores and markets in China. Look for fresh fruits and vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and plant-based milk. Many supermarkets also carry imported vegan products such as plant-based meat, dairy-free cheese, and vegan snacks. Travel Tips for Vegans Plan Ahead: Research vegan-friendly restaurants and grocery stores in advance, especially if you're traveling to less touristy areas where options might be limited. Pack Snacks: Carrying snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars can be helpful when you're on the go and need a quick vegan option. Communicate Clearly: Use translation apps or carry a card with dietary preferences written in Mandarin to help communicate your needs to restaurant staff. Be Open-Minded: Trying new foods is part of the travel experience. Be open to exploring local vegan dishes and experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. Stay Informed: Join online vegan communities and forums to get tips and recommendations from other vegan travelers in China.

YuanMingYuan, also known as the 'Old Summer Palace', was constructed during the 18th and early 19th century and was a wonderland of lakes and waterways, bridges, hills and pavilions. One third of the ground of YuanMingYuan was taken up by over 200 small hills with steep sides, secluded valleys, rock walls and stone caves. Half of the garderns are covered by the waters of lakes, winding streams and ponds. It was at YuanMingYuan that the emperors of the Qing Dynasty resided and handled government affairs - until it was destroyed; the Forbidden City was mostly used only for formal ceremonies at this time. The southern part of YuanMingYuan was where emperors handled state affairs, while the other parts were primarily for personal use and comprised of more than 150 scenic spots, involving rare exotic flowers and trees from different parts of the country. There were originally towers, terraces, pavilions, halls, corridors, pagodas and bridges with a total construction area of 150,000 square meters - corresponding in scale to that of the Imperial Palace. Artisans were recruited from all over China to enact the exquisite settings. The various styles of architecture, standing encircled by hills and rivulets, presented a most picturesque view. Many were reproductions of scenic mountains, rivers and famous gardens in China (mostly southern China). During his many tours of the country, emperor QianLong made it a point to have pictures of famous gardens and scenes drawn so that he could have replicas built in Beijing. Most famous of these were the ten scenic spots of the West Lake in HangZhou. The Old Summer Palace is often associated with the European-style palaces (Xi Yang Lou) that were built of stone. The designers of those structures, the Jesuits Giuseppe Castiglione and Michel Benoist, were employed by emperor QianLong to satisfy his taste for exotic buildings and objects. However, more than 95% of the Imperial Gardens consisted of essentially Chinese-style buildings. There were also a few buildings in Tibetan and Mongolian styles, reflecting the diversity of the Qing empire. In addition, hundreds of invaluable Chinese art masterpieces and antiquities were stored in the halls, including some unique copies of literary works and collections. In 1860, during the 'Second Opium War', the British and French expeditionary forces looted the Old Summer Palace. Later, on October 18 1860, a British general - despite protestations from the French (who in fact had began the looting) - gave the order to set fire to the huge complex, which burned to the ground. In 1900, those buildings that had partly survived or been restored were burnt for good by the Western expeditionary forces sent to quell the 'Boxer Rebellion'. Many priceless artifacts were plundered and made their way to museums and private collections in Europe. The ruins were further plundered by the warlords of the early republican period and further destruction of the ruins took place during the 'Cutural Revolution'. After all this destruction, what was left was truely just an empty shell. Empress dowager CiXi later directed the forming of YiHeYuan (Garden of Nurtured Harmony), into a new Summer Palace; this was near to the Old Summer Palace, but on a (somewhat) smaller scale. Nearest subway station : YuanMingYuan on line 4.