Li River cruise, GuiLin to YangShuo, GuangXi province

South China.

Don't miss it ... 00:06 北京故宫千秋亭 (Beijing Forbidden City, QianQiu Pavilion) 00:12 紫禁城 (Forbidden city) 00:19 甘肃嘉峪关 (Gansu Jiayuguan) 00:29 中国台湾竹林山观音寺 (Guanyin Temple, Zhulin Mountain, Taiwan, China) 00:37 江苏无锡灵山大佛 (Jiangsu Wuxi Lingshan Buddha) 00:46 四川稻城白塔 (Sichuan Daocheng Baita) 00:50 山西太原蒙山大佛 (Mengshan Buddha, Taiyuan, Shanxi) 01:11 四川巴塘措普湖 (Sichuan Batang Thomp Lake) 01:20 云南泸沽湖里格半岛 (Yunnan Lihu Peninsula) 01:29 西藏羊卓雍措 (Tibet Yangzhuo) 01:37 河南王屋山 (Henan Wangwushan) 01:42 江西庐山 (Jiangxi Lushan) 01:47 江西婺源 (Jiangxi Wuyuan) 01:51 湖南张家界 (Zhangjiajie, Hunan) 01:59 四川那玛峰 (Naama Peak, Sichuan) 02:13 乌鲁木齐天格尔峰 (Urumqi Tiangle Peak) 02:22 四川雅哈垭口 (Sichuan Yaha Pass) 02:34 杭州西湖曲院风荷 (Hangzhou West Lake Quyuan Fenghe) 02:43 江西新余 (Jiangxi Xinyu) 02:47 广西桂林 (Guilin) 02:58 湖北武汉东湖 (Wuhan East Lake, Hubei) 03:03 海南三亚海上观音 (Hainan Sanya Sea Goddess of Mercy) 03:07 贵州千户苗寨 (Guizhou Qianhu Miao Village) 03:12 浙江宁波 (Ningbo, Zhejiang) 03:16 南京美龄宫 (Nanjing Meiling Palace) 03:20 上海 (Shanghai) 03:24 江苏苏州 (Suzhou, Jiangsu) 03:28 广东广州 (Guangzhou, Guangdong) 03:33 中国香港 (Hong Kong, China) 03:38 中国澳门 (Macao, China) 03:40 北京三里屯 (Beijing Sanlitun) 03:41 宁夏银川鼓楼 (Ningxia Yinchuan Drum Tower) 03:44 黑龙江哈尔滨大教堂 (Harbin Cathedral, Heilongjiang Province) 03:46 云南昆明官渡古镇 (Guandu Ancient Town, Kunming, Yunnan) 03:48 广东广州中山纪念堂 (Zhongshan Memorial Hall, Guangzhou, Guangdong) 03:51 天津小白楼 (Tianjin Xiaobai Building) 03:53 湖北襄阳唐城 (Tangyang City, Hubei Province) 03:55 安徽歙县 (Yixian County, Anhui Province) 03:59 吉林长白山天池 (Jilin Changbai Mountain Tianchi) 04:04 湖南张家界武陵源 (Wulingyuan, Zhangjiajie, Hunan) 04:12 重庆潼南 (Chongqing Weinan) 04:15 北京大兴机场 (Beijing Daxing Airport) 04:17 青海昆仑眼 (Qinghai Kunlun Eye) 04:19 南海三沙蓝洞 (Nansha Sansha Blue Cave) 04:21 上海陆家嘴环路 (Shanghai Lujiazui Ring Road) 04:23 陕西西安钟楼 (Xi'an Bell Tower, Shaanxi) 04:25 重庆洪崖洞 (Chongqing Hongyadong) 04:27 山西临汾华门 (Linyi Huamen, Shanxi) 04:30 陕西雨岔大陕谷 (Shaanxi Rainy Dashan Valley) 04:32 新疆开都河 (Kaidu River, Xinjiang) 04:34 新疆伊犁新源 (Xinjiang Yili Xinyuan) 04:36 云南文山普者黑 (Yunnan Wenshan Puzhehei) 04:39 新疆昌吉江布拉克 (Xinjiang Changji River Braque) 04:41 浙江台州大陈岛荧光海 (Fluorescent Sea, Dachen Island, Taizhou, Zhejiang) 04:43 新疆禾木 (Xinjiang Hemu) 04:46 安徽黄山 (Anhui Huangshan) 04:48 安徽休宁县 (Xiuning County, Anhui Province) 04:49 江西武功山 (Jiangxi Wugong Mountain) 04:50 福建厦门 (Fujian Xiamen) 04:51 福建土楼 (Fujian Tulou) 04:52 甘肃七彩丹霞 (Gansu colorful Danxia) 04:53 甘肃敦煌月牙泉 (Gansu Dunhuang Crescent Spring) 04:54 贵州黄果树瀑布 (Guizhou Huangguoshu Waterfall) 04:55 贵州贵阳 (Guiyang, Guizhou) 04:56 贵州FAST天眼望远镜 (Guizhou FAST sky telescope) 04:58 广东汕尾凤山妈祖像 (Guangdong Shanwei Fengshan Mazu statue) 04:59 广东惠州汉月湾 (Huizhou Hanyue Bay, Guangdong) 05:00 广东南沙大桥 (Guangdong Nansha Bridge) 05:01 广东广州中轴线 (Guangdong Guangzhou Central axis) 05:02 广东深圳华润总部 (Guangdong Shenzhen China Resources Headquarters) 05:03 广东深圳机场 (Guangdong Shenzhen Airport) 05:04 湖北武汉长江 (Wuhan Yangtze River, Hubei) 05:05 湖北武汉黄鹤楼 (Yellow Crane Tower, Wuhan, Hubei) 05:06 湖北武汉东湖樱园 (Wuhan East Lake Sakura Garden, Hubei) 05:07 湖北长阳天柱山 (Tianzhu Mountain, Changyang, Hubei) 05:08 湖北荆州古城 (Ancient city of Jingzhou, Hubei) 05:10 宁夏中华黄河楼 (Ningxia Zhonghua Yellow River Building) 05:11 河南老君山 (Laojun Mountain, Henan) 05:12 河南龙门石窟 (Longmen Grottoes, Henan) 05:13 黑龙江哈尔滨冰雪大世界 (Harbin Ice and Snow World in Heilongjiang Province) 05:14 黑龙江大庆芍药花海 (Heilongjiang Daqing peony flower sea) 05:15 湖南长沙大剧院 (Hunan Changsha Grand Theatre) 05:16 湖南凤凰古镇 (Fenghuang Ancient Town, Hunan) 05:17 吉林集安 (Jilin Ji'an) 05:18 辽宁沈阳 (Shenyang, Liaoning) 05:20 辽宁大连星海湾大桥 (Dalian Xinghai Bay Bridge, Liaoning) 05:21 辽宁大连长兴岛 (Changxing Island, Dalian, Liaoning) 05:22 江苏扬州瘦西湖 (Slender West Lake, Yangzhou, Jiangsu) 05:23 江苏苏州十里斜塘 (Suzhou Shili Liantang) 05:24 江苏南京灵谷寺萤火虫 (Fireflies in Linggu Temple, Nanjing, Jiangsu) 05:25 江苏南京平流雾 (Nanjing Nanjing River) 05:26 广西柳州 (Liuzhou, Guangxi) 05:27 广西桂林相公山 (Xianggong Mountain, Guilin, Guangxi) 05:28 广西德天瀑布 (Guangxi Detian Waterfall) 05:29 广西百色福禄河 (Guangxi Baise Fulu River) 05:30 青海格尔木河 (Qinghai Golmud River) 05:32 青海俄博梁 (Qinghai Russian Boliang) 05:33 青海哈拉湖 (Qinghai Lake Hala) 05:34 青海湖 (Qinghai Lake)

With Nick in China ... Meidaizhao Temple Visitor Guide Located near Baotou in Inner Mongolia, Meidaizhao Temple (also known as Meidaizhao Lamasery) is a unique cultural landmark that blends Tibetan Buddhism with Mongolian and Han architectural influences. This guide provides everything you need to know for an enriching visit to this historical and spiritual site. Overview of Meidaizhao Temple History & Significance: Built in the late 16th century, during the reign of the Ming Dynasty, Meidaizhao Temple is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Inner Mongolia. It was initially a palace for Altan Khan, a Mongol leader who played a key role in introducing Tibetan Buddhism to the region. The temple later evolved into a lamasery and continues to serve as a significant religious site for both monks and pilgrims. Architecture: Meidaizhao’s architecture is a fascinating blend of Mongolian, Tibetan, and Han Chinese styles, making it stand out among other temples in the region. The complex is surrounded by a fortress-like wall, and inside, visitors will find beautifully painted murals, prayer halls, and courtyards that reflect its spiritual importance and artistic beauty. Key Attractions in Meidaizhao Temple Main Prayer Hall The Main Prayer Hall, or "Sükhbaatar," is the heart of Meidaizhao Temple. This large, ornate building is used for religious ceremonies and prayers. Visitors can observe monks conducting rituals and admire the intricately painted murals that depict Buddhist stories and deities. White Pagoda One of the most iconic features of Meidaizhao is the White Pagoda, which stands tall against the backdrop of the vast grasslands. This stupa, a symbol of enlightenment in Buddhism, is a popular spot for pilgrims who come to offer prayers and walk clockwise around the structure for blessings. Mongolian Fortress Walls The temple complex is encircled by fortress-like walls that reflect its historical role as a defensive palace for Altan Khan. Walking along these walls provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and offers a glimpse into the temple's past as a political and military stronghold. Buddhist Murals Inside the temple, visitors can find elaborate Buddhist murals that are well-preserved despite their age. These murals depict Tibetan Buddhist figures, scenes from religious texts, and Mongolian motifs, showcasing the cultural fusion that defines Meidaizhao. Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to observe monks performing traditional Tibetan Buddhist rituals in the Main Hall. These ceremonies are deeply spiritual and offer a rare glimpse into the religious life of the lamasery. Practical Travel Information for Meidaizhao Temple When to Visit The best time to visit Meidaizhao Temple is during the late spring and early autumn months (May to October), when the weather is mild, and the grasslands surrounding the temple are lush and green. Summer can be warm, but it is also the peak season for local festivals, while winter is harsh and cold, making outdoor exploration difficult. Getting to Meidaizhao By Air: The nearest major airport is Baotou Airport, about 80 kilometers from the temple. From Baotou, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Meidaizhao. By Train: Baotou is well-connected by train to major cities in China. After arriving in Baotou, buses or taxis can take you directly to the temple. By Bus: Local buses operate from Baotou and other nearby towns, offering a budget-friendly option for reaching the temple. Private tours also often include transportation to the temple as part of their package. Accommodation There are limited accommodation options near Meidaizhao Temple. Most visitors stay in Baotou, which has a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury. If you're interested in a more immersive experience, some guesthouses in the area offer basic lodging close to the temple grounds. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Cultural Sensitivity As Meidaizhao is an active religious site, visitors should show respect by dressing modestly and refraining from loud conversations within the temple complex. Photography may be restricted in certain areas, especially inside prayer halls. Always ask for permission before taking photos of monks or religious ceremonies. Local Cuisine Inner Mongolian cuisine is known for its hearty, meat-heavy dishes. Near Meidaizhao, you can find local eateries serving traditional Mongolian food such as mutton, dairy products (such as milk tea and cheese), and a variety of grilled meats. For a unique experience, try the local "suutei tsai" (Mongolian milk tea) or "huoguo" (Mongolian hotpot). Travel Tip: If you visit during a local festival, such as the Naadam Festival, you’ll have the opportunity to witness traditional Mongolian sports like wrestling and horse racing. These cultural events add an extra dimension to your visit. Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Meidaizhao Temple Day 1: Arrive in Baotou and explore the city’s museums or enjoy a local Mongolian meal. In the afternoon, travel to Meidaizhao and take a walk around the temple's exterior, exploring the fortress walls and nearby grasslands. Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the temple complex. Visit the Main Prayer Hall to observe religious ceremonies, explore the White Pagoda, and admire the murals. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Baotou. Day 3: If time allows, visit nearby attractions such as the Dazhao Temple in Hohhot or take a tour of the Inner Mongolian grasslands for a more in-depth exploration of the region’s natural beauty and nomadic culture.

At the Oriental Pearl Tower ...

With DuckTravel ... With Walk East ... With Chao's Travel Log ..

1. Harmony and Balance (和谐 Héxié) Philosophical Roots: Derived from Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, the concept of harmony emphasizes balance in social relationships, nature, and the universe. It promotes peaceful coexistence and cooperation. Social Application: In social and business contexts, maintaining harmony is crucial. Conflicts are often resolved through negotiation and compromise to preserve social stability. 2. Family and Filial Piety (孝 Xiào) Central Role of Family: The family is the cornerstone of Chinese society. Filial piety, respect for one’s parents and ancestors, is a key virtue. Social Structure: Family obligations often take precedence over individual desires, reflecting the collective nature of Chinese culture. 3. Collectivism Community Focus: Chinese culture emphasizes the importance of the group over the individual. This is evident in societal, family, and workplace dynamics. Shared Responsibility: Successes and failures are often viewed as collective rather than individual, fostering a strong sense of community and mutual support. 4. Win-Win Philosophy (共赢 Gòngyíng) Mutual Benefit: In business and diplomacy, the concept of win-win solutions is highly valued. It emphasizes creating outcomes that benefit all parties involved. Long-Term Relationships: Building long-term relationships and mutual trust is prioritized over short-term gains. 5. Respect for Hierarchy and Authority Confucian Influence: Respect for hierarchy is deeply ingrained, influenced by Confucian principles. This is evident in social, familial, and organizational structures. Role of Elders and Leaders: Elders and leaders are accorded high respect and their opinions are given significant weight in decision-making processes. 6. Education and Continuous Learning Value of Education: Education is highly valued and seen as a means to achieve personal and societal improvement. Historical reverence for scholars and intellectuals persists. Meritocracy: Historically, the imperial examination system reinforced the importance of education and merit in attaining social status and governmental positions. 7. Adaptability and Pragmatism Historical Adaptation: China has a long history of adapting to changing circumstances, whether through economic reforms or cultural assimilation. Pragmatic Approach: Practical solutions are often favored over rigid adherence to ideology, allowing for flexibility in governance and daily life. 8. Respect for Tradition and Cultural Heritage Preservation of Traditions: Despite modernization, traditional festivals, customs, and rituals remain integral to Chinese life. Cultural Continuity: There's a strong emphasis on preserving and passing down cultural heritage through generations. 9. Guanxi (关系) - Social Connections and Networks Importance of Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships is crucial in both personal and professional contexts. Guanxi can provide social support, opportunities, and resources. Reciprocity: Relationships are maintained through reciprocal exchanges of favors and support. 10. Yin and Yang (阴阳 Yīnyáng) Philosophical Concept: Represents the duality and interconnectedness of opposites in the natural world. Balance between yin (passive, dark, feminine) and yang (active, light, masculine) is sought. Application in Life: This concept influences various aspects of life, including health, environment, and personal relationships. Conclusion These enduring characteristics shape the Chinese worldview and influence behavior, relationships, and societal norms. Understanding these cultural elements provides valuable insights into the dynamics of Chinese society and its approach to both personal and professional interactions. These values continue to guide life in China into modernity and its international relations.

YuYuan Garden ... XinTianDi ... NanJing Road ... The Bund (WaiTan) ...

It is still possible to get by with cash from ATMs, but for longer visits it can be a good idea to set up AliPay (or WeChat). Getting started with Alipay involves creating an account and setting up your payment methods. Here is a step-by-step guide: ### Setting Up Alipay: 1. **Download the Alipay App:** - Go to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS). - Search for "Alipay" and download the official app developed by Ant Group. 2. **Install and Open the App:** - Install the Alipay app on your device. - Open the app once the installation is complete. 3. **Language Selection:** - Choose your preferred language for the app. 4. **Create an Account:** - Tap on "Sign Up" or "Register." - Choose your country or region and enter your mobile phone number. - Create a strong password for your Alipay account. 5. **Verify Your Identity:** - Alipay may require you to verify your identity. This could involve receiving a verification code via SMS. 6. **Add a Payment Method:** - Link your bank card or credit card to your Alipay account. - Go to "Me" (bottom right corner) > "Wallet" > "Add Card." 7. **Add Funds to Your Alipay Account:** - You may need to add funds to your Alipay account. You can link your bank account for direct transfers or use a linked card for payments. 8. **Set Up Security Features:** - Enable security features such as fingerprint or facial recognition to enhance account security. - Set a payment password for additional security. ### Using Alipay: 1. **Making Payments:** - To make a payment, tap on "Scan" and scan the QR code of the recipient. - Enter the amount and add a note if necessary. - Confirm the payment with your password or biometric authentication. 2. **Receiving Payments:** - To receive money, the payer can scan your Alipay QR code. - Confirm the payment on your Alipay app. 3. **Exploring Additional Features:** - Alipay offers various features beyond payments, such as bill payments, transportation services, and investments. Explore the app to discover these options. 4. **Managing Your Account:** - Regularly check your transaction history and account settings. - Customize your profile and settings under the "Me" section. 5. **Security Tips:** - Be cautious of phishing attempts. Always use the official app and avoid clicking on suspicious links. - Regularly update your password and enable two-factor authentication for added security. Remember that Alipay's features and interface may evolve, so it's a good idea to check for updates within the app or refer to Alipay's official website for the latest information.