FengHuang 凤凰 ancient town, HuNan province

With Beautiful China ... Nanxun Ancient Water Town Visitor Guide Introduction Nestled in the heart of Zhejiang Province, Nanxun Ancient Water Town is a hidden gem among China's water towns. Known for its well-preserved architecture, serene canals, and rich cultural heritage, Nanxun offers a glimpse into the past with a blend of Chinese and Western influences. This guide will provide you with everything you need to explore Nanxun's historic streets, discover its cultural treasures, and enjoy its tranquil beauty. Key Attractions 1. Xiaolian Manor (Little Lotus Garden) Built during the late Qing Dynasty, Xiaolian Manor is one of Nanxun's most famous landmarks. This classical Chinese garden features a picturesque pond, rockeries, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The manor was the private residence of a wealthy silk merchant and offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the past. 2. Jiayetang Library Jiayetang Library, founded by a wealthy silk merchant named Liu Chenggan, is one of China's oldest private libraries. The library's collection includes ancient manuscripts, rare books, and classic Chinese literature. The architecture is a blend of traditional Chinese and Western styles, reflecting the cultural exchange that characterized Nanxun's history. 3. Zhang Shiming Mansion The Zhang Shiming Mansion is an exquisite example of traditional Chinese residential architecture with Western influences. The mansion's intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and spacious courtyards provide a fascinating insight into the lives of Nanxun's wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 4. Guanghui Palace (Guanghui Taoist Temple) Guanghui Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Nanxun, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty. This Taoist temple is dedicated to the worship of the Taoist deity Xuanwu. Visitors can admire the temple's ancient architecture, Taoist sculptures, and serene atmosphere. Cultural Activities Nanxun is not only about its historical architecture but also about the cultural experiences that bring the town to life. Here are some activities to immerse yourself in the local culture: Boat Rides on the Canals: Experience the charm of Nanxun from the water by taking a leisurely boat ride along its tranquil canals. The boat rides offer a unique perspective of the ancient bridges, white-washed houses, and overhanging willow trees. Silk Weaving Demonstrations: Nanxun has a long history of silk production. Visit one of the local silk weaving workshops to see traditional techniques in action and learn about the town's silk-making heritage. Tea Tasting: Enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at one of the local teahouses. Savor the flavors of locally grown green teas while relaxing by the water's edge. Calligraphy and Painting Workshops: Join a workshop to learn the art of Chinese calligraphy and painting. These hands-on experiences offer insight into traditional Chinese arts and crafts. Dining Options Nanxun offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving traditional Chinese dishes to charming cafes. Here are some recommendations: Local Dishes: Try the famous Nanxun braised pork, lotus root soup, and other local delicacies at traditional restaurants like Nongfu Restaurant and Nanxun Old Town Cuisine. Waterfront Cafés: Enjoy a relaxing meal or a cup of coffee at one of the quaint waterfront cafés, where you can take in the scenic views of the canals and historic buildings. Street Food: Explore the narrow streets and alleys to find street vendors selling snacks like rice dumplings, tofu pudding, and steamed buns. These local treats are perfect for a quick bite. Teahouses: Visit traditional teahouses like Wangfu Teahouse for an authentic tea-drinking experience. Pair your tea with local pastries and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Nanxun, when the weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful. Getting There: Nanxun is located about 120 kilometers from Shanghai and 80 kilometers from Hangzhou. It can be reached by bus or car. Regular buses run from Shanghai and Hangzhou to Nanxun. What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you will be exploring cobbled streets and bridges. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sunny days, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Language: Mandarin is the primary language spoken in Nanxun. Learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be helpful. Entrance Fees: Some attractions in Nanxun, such as Xiaolian Manor and Zhang Shiming Mansion, may have an entrance fee. It's a good idea to carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards. Respect Local Culture: Nanxun is a place of historical and cultural significance. Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Taking photos inside temples may be prohibited.

ShangHai: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Shanghai Disneyland (上海迪士尼乐园 Shànghǎi Díshìní Lèyuán): Enjoy magical attractions and meet Disney characters at this theme park. Ocean Aquarium (上海海洋水族馆 Shànghǎi Hǎiyáng Shuǐzúguǎn): Explore marine life exhibits and interactive displays. Century Park (世纪公园 Shìjì Gōngyuán): Relax in green spaces and enjoy boating on the lake in this expansive park. Shanghai Natural History Museum (上海自然博物馆 Shànghǎi Zìrán Bówùguǎn): Learn about dinosaurs, fossils, and natural history. Shanghai Science and Technology Museum (上海科技馆 Shànghǎi Kējìguǎn): Discover interactive exhibits on science and technology. Shanghai Zoo (上海动物园 Shànghǎi Dòngwùyuán): Visit pandas, monkeys, and other animals in this popular zoo. Shanghai Children's Museum (上海儿童博物馆 Shànghǎi Értóng Bówùguǎn): Interactive museum with exhibits designed for children. Happy Valley Shanghai (上海欢乐谷 Shànghǎi Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with thrilling rides and entertainment. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium (上海海洋水族馆 Shànghǎi Hǎiyáng Shuǐzúguǎn): Explore marine life exhibits and interactive displays. Shanghai Changfeng Ocean World (上海长风海洋世界 Shànghǎi Chángfēng Hǎiyáng Shìjiè): Enjoy a variety of aquatic attractions and shows. Shanghai Botanical Garden (上海植物园 Shànghǎi Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy outdoor activities. Shanghai Circus World (上海马戏城 Shànghǎi Mǎxì Chéng): Watch acrobatic performances and circus acts. Shanghai Disney Store (上海迪士尼商店 Shànghǎi Díshìní Shāngdiàn): Shop for Disney merchandise and souvenirs. Shanghai Natural Wild-Insect Kingdom (上海自然野生昆虫馆 Shànghǎi Zìrán Yěshēng Kūnchóngguǎn): Learn about insects and their habitats. Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park (上海海昌海洋公园 Shànghǎi Hǎichāng Hǎiyáng Gōngyuán): Enjoy marine-themed attractions and shows. Shanghai Madame Tussauds (上海杜莎夫人蜡像馆 Shànghǎi Dùshā Fūrén Làxiàngguǎn): Pose with lifelike wax figures of celebrities. Shanghai Happy Valley (上海欢乐谷 Shànghǎi Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with thrilling rides and entertainment. Shanghai Film Park (上海电影公园 Shànghǎi Diànyǐng Gōngyuán): Explore film sets and learn about movie production. Shanghai Changfeng Park (上海长风公园 Shànghǎi Chángfēng Gōngyuán): Enjoy green spaces and outdoor activities. Shanghai Changfeng Ocean World (上海长风海洋世界 Shànghǎi Chángfēng Hǎiyáng Shìjiè): Enjoy a variety of aquatic attractions and shows. ShangHai: 30 More Places to Visit The Bund (外滩 Wàitān): Enjoy iconic skyline views and colonial architecture along the Huangpu River. Yu Garden (豫园 Yù Yuán): Explore classical Chinese gardens and traditional architecture. Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦 Shànghǎi Zhōngxīn Dàshà): Visit one of the tallest buildings in the world for breathtaking views. Nanjing Road (南京路 Nánjīng Lù): Shop for souvenirs, fashion, and electronics on this bustling shopping street. Jin Mao Tower (金茂大厦 Jīn Mào Dàshà): Visit this skyscraper for observation decks and a luxurious hotel. Shanghai World Financial Center (上海环球金融中心 Shànghǎi Huánqiú Jīnróng Zhōngxīn): Enjoy panoramic views from the Skywalk Observatory. Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆 Shànghǎi Bówùguǎn): Explore Chinese art and artifacts in this renowned museum. Tianzifang (田子坊 Tiánzǐ Fāng): Wander through narrow alleys filled with shops, galleries, and cafes. Power Station of Art (上海当代艺术博物馆 Shànghǎi Dāngdài Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Explore contemporary art exhibitions in a former power station. Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center (上海城市规划展示馆 Shànghǎi Chéngshì Guīhuà Zhǎnshì Guǎn): Learn about the development of Shanghai through interactive exhibits. Shanghai French Concession (上海法租界 Shànghǎi Fǎ Zūjiè): Explore leafy streets, historic buildings, and trendy boutiques. Longhua Temple (龙华寺 Lónghuá Sì): Visit one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Shanghai. Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角 Zhūjiājiǎo): Explore ancient canals, bridges, and traditional architecture in this historic water town. Xintiandi (新天地 Xīntiāndì): Shop, dine, and explore entertainment venues in this renovated historic area. Huangpu River Cruise (黄浦江游船 Huángpǔ Jiāng Yóuchuán): Enjoy scenic views of Shanghai's skyline from the river. Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦 Shànghǎi Zhōngxīn Dàshà): Visit one of the tallest buildings in the world for breathtaking views. Nanjing Road (南京路 Nánjīng Lù): Shop for souvenirs, fashion, and electronics on this bustling shopping street. Jin Mao Tower (金茂大厦 Jīn Mào Dàshà): Visit this skyscraper for observation decks and a luxurious hotel. Shanghai World Financial Center (上海环球金融中心 Shànghǎi Huánqiú Jīnróng Zhōngxīn): Enjoy panoramic views from the Skywalk Observatory. Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆 Shànghǎi Bówùguǎn): Explore Chinese art and artifacts in this renowned museum. Tianzifang (田子坊 Tiánzǐ Fāng): Wander through narrow alleys filled with shops, galleries, and cafes. Power Station of Art (上海当代艺术博物馆 Shànghǎi Dāngdài Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Explore contemporary art exhibitions in a former power station. Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center (上海城市规划展示馆 Shànghǎi Chéngshì Guīhuà Zhǎnshì Guǎn): Learn about the development of Shanghai through interactive exhibits. Shanghai French Concession (上海法租界 Shànghǎi Fǎ Zūjiè): Explore leafy streets, historic buildings, and trendy boutiques. Longhua Temple (龙华寺 Lónghuá Sì): Visit one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Shanghai. Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角 Zhūjiājiǎo): Explore ancient canals, bridges, and traditional architecture in this historic water town. Xintiandi (新天地 Xīntiāndì): Shop, dine, and explore entertainment venues in this renovated historic area. Huangpu River Cruise (黄浦江游船 Huángpǔ Jiāng Yóuchuán): Enjoy scenic views of Shanghai's skyline from the river.

[videogallery type=playlist id=PLAhTBeRe8IhNCSe4R-NvrFnrgJvE6jql8]

With Seiu Travel ...

A Chinese brush artist since 1976, Virginia Lloyd-Davies has paintings in collections in the U.S., China, Britain, Europe, Japan, Mexico and Kenya. Her teacher for 26 years until his death was Master Painter I-Hsiung Ju, with whom she traveled regularly to China & Taiwan. Watch Virginia demonstrate a typical lotus painting ...

Day Trips from ShangHai, China Suzhou 苏州 (Sūzhōu): Explore the "Venice of the East" known for its classical gardens, ancient canals, and traditional architecture. Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, stroll along Pingjiang Road, and take a boat ride on the Grand Canal. Hangzhou 杭州 (Hángzhōu): Discover the scenic beauty of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by lush hills and ancient temples. Visit the Lingyin Temple, explore the Six Harmonies Pagoda, and enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the lake. Nanjing 南京 (Nánjīng): Explore the historic capital of China known for its ancient city walls, imperial palaces, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, walk along the Qinhuai River, and climb to the top of the Nanjing City Wall for panoramic views. Wuzhen 乌镇 (Wūzhèn): Step back in time in this ancient water town known for its well-preserved architecture, stone bridges, and tranquil canals. Explore the East and West Scenic Areas, visit the Folk Custom Museum, and take a boat ride along the waterways. Shaoxing 绍兴 (Shàoxīng): Experience the cultural heritage of this historic city famous for its ancient canals, traditional wooden houses, and rice wine. Visit the Lu Xun Former Residence, explore the Keyan Scenic Area, and sample local specialties such as stinky tofu and fermented rice wine. Huangshan 黄山 (Huángshān): Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Yellow Mountain, known for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and mystical beauty. Hike along scenic trails, watch the sunrise from the summit, and marvel at the sea of clouds. Shaoxing 绍兴 (Shàoxīng): Explore the ancient water town of Wuzhen, known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, stone bridges, and tranquil canals. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit historic residences and workshops, and enjoy a boat ride along the waterways. Nanjing 南京 (Nánjīng): Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Nanjing, the ancient capital of China. Visit the Nanjing City Wall, explore the Confucius Temple area, and stroll along the banks of the Qinhuai River. Hangzhou 杭州 (Hángzhōu): Relax in the scenic beauty of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its serene landscapes and historic sites. Take a leisurely boat cruise, visit Lingyin Temple, and explore the picturesque pagodas and gardens. Suzhou 苏州 (Sūzhōu): Explore the classical gardens and ancient water towns of Suzhou, known for their tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Master of the Nets Garden, take a boat ride along the Grand Canal, and stroll through the historic streets of Pingjiang Road. Zhouzhuang 周庄 (Zhōuzhuāng): Experience the charm of Zhouzhuang, one of China's most famous water towns, with its picturesque canals, historic bridges, and traditional architecture. Visit the Twin Bridges, explore the Shen's Residence, and take a boat ride through the scenic waterways. Wuxi 无锡 (Wúxī): Discover the beauty of Taihu Lake, one of China's largest freshwater lakes, surrounded by lush hills and scenic gardens. Visit the Lingshan Grand Buddha, explore the Xihui Park, and enjoy a boat cruise on the lake. Ningbo 宁波 (Níngbō): Explore the historic port city of Ningbo, known for its ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Tianyi Pavilion, stroll along the Moon Lake, and sample local delicacies at the bustling food markets. Shanghai Disney Resort 上海迪士尼度假区 (Shànghǎi Díshìní Dùjià Qū): Enjoy a day of fun and adventure at Shanghai Disney Resort, featuring thrilling rides, live shows, and iconic Disney characters. Explore the Magic Kingdom, visit the Enchanted Storybook Castle, and watch the spectacular fireworks display. Qibao Seven Treasures 七宝老街 (Qībǎo Lǎojiē): Step back in time in the ancient water town of Qibao, known for its historic buildings, traditional markets, and scenic canals. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the Temple of the Town God, and sample local street food such as sticky rice cakes and deep-fried dough sticks. Huzhou 湖州 (Húzhōu): Relax in the picturesque scenery of Taihu Lake, known for its serene landscapes and historic sites. Visit the Feiying Pagoda, explore the Nanxun Ancient Town, and take a boat cruise on the tranquil waters of the lake. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium 上海海洋水族馆 (Shànghǎi Hǎiyáng Shuǐzúguǎn): Explore the underwater world at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, home to thousands of marine species from around the globe. Marvel at the colorful coral reefs, watch sharks swim overhead in the underwater tunnel, and learn about marine conservation efforts. Chongming Island 崇明岛 (Chóngmíng Dǎo): Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the natural beauty of Chongming Island, the largest alluvial island in the Yangtze River. Visit Dongping National Forest Park, cycle along scenic trails, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. Tongli 同里 (Tónglǐ): Discover the charm of Tongli, a picturesque water town known for its ancient bridges, tranquil canals, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visit the Retreat and Reflection Garden, explore the Chongben Hall, and take a boat ride along the scenic waterways. Moganshan 莫干山 (Mògānshān): Retreat to the scenic beauty of Moganshan, a mountain resort known for its bamboo forests, tea plantations, and cool mountain breezes. Hike along scenic trails, visit historic villas, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

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With Sticker Travel. The second film shows scenes from the dances at the XinXiang International Bazaar Theater in Urumqi.

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