Good morning BeiJing 北京 !

With Seiu Travel ... ShiJiaZhuang visitor guide Overview ShiJiaZhuang, the capital of HeBei province, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, modern developments, and scenic surroundings. As a major transportation hub, ShiJiaZhuang is easily accessible and offers a variety of attractions, from historical sites to beautiful parks, making it a great destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. History ShiJiaZhuang's history dates back over a thousand years, with its origins in the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). The city has grown significantly from a small village into a bustling metropolis. Its historical evolution is reflected in its diverse architecture and cultural sites, which showcase the city's rich past and dynamic present. Main Attractions Hebei Provincial Museum The Hebei Provincial Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the history and culture of the region. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, calligraphy, and historical relics that provide insights into the province's past. Zhaozhou Bridge The Zhaozhou Bridge, also known as Anji Bridge, is an ancient stone bridge located in the Zhao County of ShiJiaZhuang. Built during the Sui Dynasty (581–618 AD), it is one of the oldest and best-preserved stone arch bridges in the world. The bridge is an engineering marvel and a testament to ancient Chinese architectural ingenuity. Mount Cangyan Scenic Area The Mount Cangyan Scenic Area is a stunning natural attraction located to the southwest of ShiJiaZhuang. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and historical temples, the area offers hiking trails, beautiful views, and a serene environment. The most famous site here is the suspended temple, Xumi Fushou Temple, built on a cliff. Pilu Temple Pilu Temple, located in the city center, is a significant cultural and religious site. The temple features beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and tranquil gardens. It is a great place to learn about local religious practices and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Culture and Traditions ShiJiaZhuang is a city with a rich cultural heritage, blending traditional customs with modern influences. The city's cultural scene includes traditional Chinese opera, folk music, and various festivals that celebrate local customs and traditions. Visitors can experience the vibrant culture through performances, exhibitions, and local markets. Activities and Experiences Walking Tours Explore ShiJiaZhuang on foot with guided walking tours that offer insights into the city's history, architecture, and culture. Walking through the city's streets and alleys provides a unique perspective and allows visitors to discover hidden gems and local stories. Shopping for Local Crafts The markets and shops in ShiJiaZhuang offer a variety of traditional crafts and handmade products. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, including pottery, embroidery, and traditional clothing, all crafted by local artisans. These items make for unique and meaningful mementos of your visit. Sampling Local Cuisine ShiJiaZhuang is known for its delicious local cuisine, which reflects the flavors and traditions of HeBei province. Visitors can sample a range of traditional dishes at the city's restaurants and food stalls. Don't miss trying the local specialties, such as donkey burger (驴肉火烧), roasted mutton, and various noodle dishes. Visiting Local Festivals Throughout the year, ShiJiaZhuang hosts various traditional festivals that celebrate local culture and heritage. These festivals feature music, dance, and traditional performances, offering visitors a unique and immersive cultural experience. Check the local event calendar to see if any festivals coincide with your visit. Accommodation ShiJiaZhuang offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget hotels, and guesthouses. Staying in the city center provides convenient access to major attractions and amenities. Whether you're looking for a comfortable hotel or a traditional guesthouse, you'll find a variety of options to suit your needs. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit ShiJiaZhuang is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Getting There: ShiJiaZhuang is a major transportation hub with a well-connected railway network. The city is accessible by train, bus, and car. The nearest airport is ShiJiaZhuang Zhengding International Airport, which offers connections to various domestic and international destinations. Opening Hours: Most attractions in ShiJiaZhuang are open year-round. Specific sites and museums may have their own operating hours. Entrance Fees: There may be entrance fees for certain attractions within the city. It is advisable to check the latest fees before planning your visit. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, especially if you plan on exploring the city's historical sites and natural attractions. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and cultural sites. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if you plan on exploring the city extensively. It's also a good idea to bring snacks or purchase food from local vendors.

With Wild Girl ...

August 2011. Staged at the 'Window of the World'. Includes the handover to Kazan, Russia for July 2013.

Sky bars, hot springs and more ..

The Summer Palace is the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China. Its Chinese name, YiHeYuan, translates as 'Garden of Nurtured Harmony' or 'Garden for Maintaining Health and Harmony'. With interconnected lakes and many pavilions, bridges, pagodas, halls and highly decorated corridors, it is a showcase of Chinese garden arts.

Places to visit in and around HangZhou West Lake (西湖) - Xī Hú Description: West Lake is the most iconic attraction in Hangzhou, known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and cultural significance. Visitors can take leisurely boat cruises, stroll along the promenades, and admire picturesque pavilions, bridges, and pagodas. Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺) - Língyǐn Sì Description: Lingyin Temple is one of the oldest and most prestigious Buddhist temples in China, nestled at the foot of Lingyin Mountain. The temple complex features ancient halls, pagodas, and intricate stone carvings, as well as serene forested surroundings ideal for contemplation and meditation. Qinghefang Ancient Street (清河坊古街) - Qīnghéfāng Gǔ Jiē Description: Qinghefang Ancient Street is a historic pedestrian street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and snack stalls. Visitors can explore Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, sample local delicacies, and shop for souvenirs such as silk, tea, and handicrafts. Leifeng Pagoda (雷峰塔) - Léifēng Tǎ Description: Leifeng Pagoda is a historic tower located on Sunset Hill overlooking West Lake. Originally built in the 10th century, the pagoda offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding scenery. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking vistas and learn about the pagoda's storied history. Hangzhou Songcheng Park (杭州宋城景区) - Hángzhōu Sòngchéng Jǐngqū Description: Hangzhou Songcheng Park is a large-scale cultural theme park showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of ancient China. The park features replica ancient streets, performances, and attractions, allowing visitors to experience the charm of traditional Chinese culture. Longjing Tea Plantation (龙井茶园) - Lóngjǐng Cháyuán Description: Longjing Tea Plantation is famous for producing Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, one of China's most prized green teas. Visitors can tour the tea fields, learn about tea cultivation and processing, and sample freshly brewed Longjing tea while enjoying scenic views of the countryside. Hangzhou Botanical Garden (杭州植物园) - Hángzhōu Zhíwù Yuán Description: Hangzhou Botanical Garden is a tranquil oasis featuring diverse plant collections, landscaped gardens, and nature trails. Visitors can explore themed gardens, conservatories, and aquatic habitats, as well as enjoy picnics, birdwatching, and photography amidst lush greenery. Hefang Street (河坊街) - Héfāng Jiē Description: Hefang Street is a vibrant pedestrian thoroughfare in the heart of Hangzhou's historic district. The street is lined with shops selling traditional crafts, snacks, and souvenirs, as well as teahouses, street performers, and cultural attractions. Hangzhou Zoo (杭州动物园) - Hángzhōu Dòngwù Yuán Description: Hangzhou Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animal species from around the world, including rare and endangered species. Visitors can observe animals in naturalistic habitats, attend feeding sessions and animal shows, and enjoy family-friendly attractions such as playgrounds and picnic areas. China National Tea Museum (中国茶叶博物馆) - Zhōngguó Cháyè Bówùguǎn Description: China National Tea Museum is dedicated to the history, culture, and art of tea in China. The museum features informative exhibits, interactive displays, and traditional tea ceremonies, providing insights into the significance of tea in Chinese society and its cultural significance. Yuhuang Mountain (玉皇山) - Yùhuáng Shān Description: Yuhuang Mountain is a scenic area known for its natural beauty, religious sites, and hiking trails. Visitors can ascend to the mountain peak for panoramic views of Hangzhou and the Qiantang River, explore ancient temples and shrines, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Hangzhou Grand Canal (杭州大运河) - Hángzhōu Dà Yùnhé Description: Hangzhou Grand Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the longest and oldest canals in the world. Visitors can take boat cruises along the canal, passing through historic districts, scenic landscapes, and cultural landmarks, while learning about the canal's role in China's history and economy. Hangzhou Xixi National Wetland Park (西溪国家湿地公园) - Xīxī Guójiā Shīdì Gōngyuán Description: Hangzhou Xixi National Wetland Park is a vast natural reserve featuring wetlands, waterways, and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can explore the park's scenic trails, wooden boardwalks, and traditional water villages, as well as enjoy boating, birdwatching, and nature photography amidst pristine surroundings. Hangzhou China Silk Town (中国丝绸城) - Zhōngguó Sīchóu Chéng Description: Hangzhou China Silk Town is a commercial district specializing in silk products, textiles, and silk-related crafts. Visitors can shop for high-quality silk fabrics, clothing, accessories, and watch demonstrations of silk production techniques such as weaving and embroidery. The town also features museums, galleries, and cultural exhibits showcasing the history and craftsmanship of silk in Hangzhou. Wushan Square (吴山广场) - Wúshān Guǎngchǎng Description: Wushan Square is a central plaza in Hangzhou surrounded by historical buildings, modern landmarks, and scenic vistas. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, cultural events, and panoramic views of West Lake, as well as explore nearby attractions such as museums, theaters, and shopping districts. China National Silk Museum (中国丝绸博物馆) - Zhōngguó Sīchóu Bówùguǎn Description: China National Silk Museum is dedicated to the history, art, and technology of silk production in China. The museum features extensive collections of silk artifacts, textiles, and cultural relics, as well as interactive exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations highlighting the craftsmanship and significance of silk in Chinese culture. Hangzhou Chenghuang Pavilion (杭州城隍阁) - Hángzhōu Chénghuáng Gé Description: Hangzhou Chenghuang Pavilion is a historic landmark dating back to the Song Dynasty, located in the heart of the city. The pavilion offers panoramic views of Hangzhou's skyline, West Lake, and surrounding landmarks, as well as cultural exhibits, art displays, and traditional performances celebrating the city's heritage. Hangzhou Confucius Temple (杭州文庙) - Hángzhōu Wénmiào Description: Hangzhou Confucius Temple is a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to the teachings and legacy of Confucius. The temple complex features traditional architecture, landscaped gardens, and cultural relics, providing a peaceful retreat for contemplation, study, and cultural exploration amidst the bustling city. Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium (杭州奥体中心) - Hángzhōu Ào Tǐ Zhōngxīn Description: Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue hosting major events, concerts, and sporting competitions. Visitors can attend live performances, sports matches, and cultural festivals, as well as explore the surrounding parklands, recreation facilities, and dining options. Hangzhou National Tea Museum (杭州茶叶博物馆) - Hángzhōu Cháyè Bówùguǎn Description: Hangzhou National Tea Museum is dedicated to the history, culture, and art of tea in China. The museum showcases tea artifacts, historical exhibits, and interactive displays, as well as traditional tea ceremonies, tastings, and workshops, offering insights into the significance of tea in Chinese society and its cultural heritage. Hangzhou Zoo (杭州动物园) - Hángzhōu Dòngwù Yuán Description: Hangzhou Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animal species from around the world, including rare and endangered species. Visitors can observe animals in naturalistic habitats, attend feeding sessions and animal shows, and enjoy family-friendly attractions such as playgrounds and picnic areas. Hangzhou Museum (杭州博物馆) - Hángzhōu Bówùguǎn Description: Hangzhou Museum is a cultural institution showcasing the history, art, and heritage of Hangzhou and the surrounding region. The museum's exhibits include archaeological artifacts, fine art collections, and cultural relics, as well as interactive displays, educational programs, and temporary exhibitions highlighting various aspects of Hangzhou's rich cultural legacy.