Hong Kong 香港 coastal hike – the other / wild side of HK …

With EpicGlobe Walks .. Huangyao Ancient Town Huangyao Ancient Town, GuangXi province, is a well-preserved historic town known for its ancient architecture, cobblestone streets, and serene environment. Here’s a detailed guide to everything you need to know about this hidden gem. History and Background Huangyao Ancient Town has a history dating back over 1,000 years, with its origins traced to the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD). It flourished during the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties as a bustling commercial hub due to its strategic location along trade routes. The town was named after the dominant Huang and Yao families who settled here. Unlike many other ancient towns in China, Huangyao has retained much of its original charm, avoiding over-commercialization. Architecture and Layout The town is a living museum of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, with over 300 well-preserved ancient buildings. Key architectural features include: Black Tiles and White Walls: Traditional southern Chinese-style buildings with black-tiled roofs and whitewashed walls. Cobblestone Streets: The narrow, winding streets are paved with smooth cobblestones, polished by centuries of foot traffic. Courtyard Houses: Many homes feature central courtyards, reflecting traditional Chinese family life. Ancient Bridges: Stone bridges, such as the Dai Long Bridge, connect different parts of the town and add to its picturesque charm. Main Attractions Here’s a detailed look at the must-see spots in Huangyao: 1. Dai Long Bridge (带龙桥) A stunning ancient stone bridge that spans the Peacock River. Offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise or sunset when the water reflects the surrounding karst mountains. A popular spot for photography and quiet contemplation. 2. Ancient Banyan Trees Huangyao is home to several ancient banyan trees, some over 1,000 years old. The most famous is the "Couple Tree", where two banyan trees have grown intertwined, symbolizing love and unity. 3. Baozi Mountain (宝珠山) A small hill located in the center of the town, offering panoramic views of Huangyao and its surroundings. At the top, you’ll find the Baozi Mountain Temple, a quiet place for reflection. 4. Ancestral Halls and Temples Huang Family Ancestral Hall: A well-preserved hall showcasing the history and achievements of the Huang family. Ouyang Temple: Dedicated to the Ouyang family, another prominent clan in the town. Guanyin Temple: A small temple dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. 5. Peacock River (孔雀河) The river winds through the town, lined with ancient buildings and lush greenery. Visitors can take a bamboo raft ride to enjoy the serene scenery. 6. Ancient Theater Stage A historic stage where traditional operas and performances were held during festivals. The intricate carvings and decorations on the stage are a testament to the town’s cultural heritage. 7. Stone Tablet Inscriptions Scattered throughout the town, these inscriptions provide insights into Huangyao’s history and the lives of its inhabitants. Cultural Experiences Huangyao is not just about sightseeing; it’s also a place to immerse yourself in local culture: Traditional Festivals: If you visit during Chinese New Year or the Lantern Festival, you’ll witness lively celebrations with dragon dances, lantern displays, and traditional music. Local Handicrafts: The town is known for its handmade soy sauce and fermented bean paste, which you can watch being made in small workshops. You can also find locally crafted bamboo products and embroidery. Folk Performances: Occasional performances of Guangxi opera and folk songs are held in the ancient theater. Local Cuisine Huangyao’s food is simple yet flavorful, reflecting the town’s rural roots. Must-try dishes include: Huangyao Tofu Pudding (黄姚豆腐脑): A soft, silky tofu dish served with soy sauce, chili, and peanuts. Huangyao Rice Noodles (黄姚米粉): A hearty bowl of rice noodles topped with braised pork, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Stuffed Glutinous Rice Balls (酿糯米球): A local specialty made with glutinous rice and filled with meat or vegetables. Fermented Bean Paste (豆豉): A savory condiment made from fermented soybeans, often used to flavor dishes. Best Time to Visit Spring (March–May): Mild weather and blooming flowers make this an ideal time to visit. Autumn (September–November): Cool and comfortable, with clear skies and vibrant foliage. Avoid Summer (June–August): The weather can be hot and humid, and the town may attract more tourists. How to Get There Huangyao is located about 200 kilometers from Guilin and 120 kilometers from Yangshuo. Here’s how to reach the town: From Guilin: Take a bus from Guilin Bus Station to Huangyao (approx. 3–4 hours). Alternatively, hire a private car or join a guided tour. From Yangshuo: Buses and private transfers are available, taking around 2–3 hours. Where to Stay Huangyao offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels. Staying overnight is highly recommended to experience the town’s peaceful atmosphere after the day-trippers leave. Options include: Traditional Guesthouses: Stay in a restored ancient building for an authentic experience. Boutique Hotels: Some hotels offer modern amenities while maintaining traditional aesthetics. Travel Tips Wear Comfortable Shoes: The cobblestone streets can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. Cash is King: Many small shops and vendors may not accept credit cards, so carry some cash. Respect Local Customs: Huangyao is a living community, so be mindful of residents’ privacy and traditions. Explore Early or Late: To avoid crowds, explore the town early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Learn Basic Chinese: While some locals may speak basic English, knowing a few Mandarin phrases can enhance your experience. Why Visit Huangyao? Huangyao Ancient Town is a perfect destination for travelers seeking: A glimpse into authentic rural Chinese life. Stunning natural scenery combined with historic architecture. A peaceful and less touristy alternative to more famous ancient towns like Lijiang or Fenghuang. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil retreat, Huangyao Ancient Town promises an unforgettable experience.

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Directed by, co-written by, and starring Jay Chou. With Gwei Lun-Mei, Anthony Wong and Alice Tzeng. Filmed in Taiwan; released 2007. We cannot tell what happens. But don't miss it ... As in life. Better late than never. The secret is right there, if one has open eyes, and an open heart.

XiāngGéLǐLā, north west YunNan province, near the Tibetan Plateau. Film crew from TaiWan. With wonderful ethereal / spiritual music. Don't miss it ...

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Nightlife and dining in China's capital. This video is pretty creative. The narration made it personal and real. You guys really went in with an open mind and immersed yourself into the culture, or the "now" at the time. Reminds me of the beauties of traveling and living. Thanks for the inspiration! - Ceci Lia 'This is my city' explores cities around the world, following the life and recommendations of a local person. In this episode, that is Lin Lin, a vivacious, (modern) culture-loving girl ...

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With Sun Kissed Bucket List ... ZhangJiaJie, located in HuNan province, is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and deep ravines. It gained international fame as the inspiration for the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie "Avatar." This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Zhangjiajie. Top Attractions Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area, is the primary attraction. It is famous for its quartz-sandstone pillars, some of which reach over 200 meters in height. Avatar Hallelujah Mountain: This iconic peak was renamed after the film "Avatar" and is one of the most photographed spots in the park. Yuanjiajie Scenic Area: Home to stunning vistas and the First Bridge Under Heaven, a natural rock bridge. Golden Whip Stream: A beautiful, serene area ideal for hiking, featuring crystal-clear streams and lush vegetation. Tianmen Mountain Tianmen Mountain is another must-see attraction, known for its dramatic scenery and thrilling experiences. Glass Skywalk: A transparent walkway that clings to the side of the mountain, offering vertigo-inducing views. Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate): A massive natural arch in the mountain, accessible via a long staircase. Tianmen Mountain Cableway: One of the longest cable car rides in the world, providing stunning aerial views. Baofeng Lake Baofeng Lake offers tranquil boat rides surrounded by stunning karst scenery. It's a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Yellow Dragon Cave Yellow Dragon Cave is a vast karst cave system featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. It is known for its grand chambers and intricate rock formations. Geology of Zhangjiajie The unique geology of Zhangjiajie is what makes it so stunning. The area is characterized by its towering quartz-sandstone pillars that were formed through a combination of geological processes over millions of years. The region was once submerged under an ancient ocean, and over time, the uplift and erosion sculpted these dramatic formations. The pillars are a result of physical weathering, primarily caused by wind, frost, and the growth of plant roots, which break down the rock. The unique climate and vegetation of the area have also contributed to the landscape's current form. Touring the Park Planning Your Visit To make the most of your visit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, it’s important to plan your route and time your visits to avoid the crowds. A typical visit to the park can take 2-3 days to cover the main highlights. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Morning: Start early at the park's main entrance. Take the shuttle bus to the Yellow Stone Village area. Spend the morning exploring the trails and enjoying the panoramic views. Afternoon: Head to Golden Whip Stream for a peaceful hike along the stream. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for all ages. Day 2: Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain Morning: Take the park shuttle bus to the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Explore the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and the First Bridge Under Heaven. Afternoon: Continue to Tianzi Mountain for more spectacular views. Take the cable car down for a different perspective. Day 3: Tianmen Mountain Morning: Take the Tianmen Mountain Cableway from Zhangjiajie City to the top of the mountain. Walk along the Glass Skywalk for thrilling views. Afternoon: Visit Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate). Descend via the 999 steps or take the escalator. Activities and Experiences Hiking Zhangjiajie offers numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. Popular hikes include the Golden Whip Stream trail and the various paths around Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. Photography The unique landscapes of Zhangjiajie provide endless opportunities for photography. Key spots include the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, the Glass Skywalk, and the views from the Tianmen Mountain cable car. Local Cuisine Try local Hunan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and use of chili peppers. Signature dishes include spicy fish head, fried rice noodles, and various stir-fried meats and vegetables. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Zhangjiajie 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 a different but beautiful snowy landscape. Getting There Zhangjiajie is accessible by train, bus, and air. The Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport has flights from major Chinese cities. There are also direct trains and buses from Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province. Accommodation There are numerous accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Staying in Wulingyuan Town provides easy access to the national park, while Zhangjiajie City offers more amenities and is closer to Tianmen Mountain. Tickets and Passes Purchase tickets for the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, which includes Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, online or at the entrance. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore the area thoroughly. Separate tickets are required for Tianmen Mountain and other attractions. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience, providing insights into the area's history, culture, and natural features. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.

LiánYúnGǎng's tourist attractions include : Lian Island Resort, 连岛 A beautiful island connected to LianYun district by a 7 kilometer (4 miles) sea dyke, the longest in China. There are two main beach and swimming areas. Lian Island is also home to an annual music extravaganza that features some of China's most famous pop stars. Huaguo Mountain, 花果山