LongQuan Temple 龙泉寺路, north west of BeiJing city

ShàoXīng is a water-town not far from HangZhou. The East Lake is situated six kilometers (four miles) to the east of the historic ShaoXing city. The exquisite crescent-shaped lake is hemmed in by a hill formed of bluestone, a material widely used in building houses, bridges and roads. Stoneworkers have quarried from this hill since the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD) and over time the hill became hollowed out, leaving only steep cliffs, a deep pool and a number of grottoes. During the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911 AD), the lake was beautified with diverse bridges, pavilions and willow trees. Bonus film - peach tree orchard in ShaoXing ...

The Snow and Ice Festival runs mid-January to the end of February, approximately, each year.

Selena is from the Philipines. The first film features LongQing Gorge, an acrobatics show and BaDaLing Great Wall. The second, Beijing Zoo, the Olympic Park and ChaoYang Park ...

Places to visit in and around NanJing Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum (中山陵) - Zhōngshān Líng Description: Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum is a memorial site dedicated to the founding father of the Republic of China, located at the foot of Purple Mountain. Visitors can climb the grand staircase to reach the mausoleum, explore the surrounding parkland, and pay homage to Dr. Sun Yat-sen at his final resting place. Confucius Temple (夫子庙) - Fūzǐ Miào Description: Confucius Temple is a historic complex dedicated to the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius. The temple features traditional architecture, tranquil courtyards, and cultural relics, as well as bustling markets, teahouses, and street performances. Visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere and pay tribute to Confucius' teachings and legacy. Nanjing City Wall (南京城墙) - Nánjīng Chéngqiáng Description: Nanjing City Wall is one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, dating back over 600 years. Visitors can walk or cycle along the wall's ramparts, gates, and watchtowers, enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding scenery. The wall offers insights into Nanjing's rich history and architectural heritage. Xuanwu Lake (玄武湖) - Xuánwǔ Hú Description: Xuanwu Lake is a scenic freshwater lake located in the heart of Nanjing, surrounded by parks, gardens, and historic landmarks. Visitors can take leisurely boat cruises, stroll along lakeside promenades, and enjoy recreational activities such as cycling, picnicking, and birdwatching amidst serene natural surroundings. Jiming Temple (鸡鸣寺) - Jīmíng Sì Description: Jiming Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple perched on the slopes of Purple Mountain, offering panoramic views of Nanjing. The temple complex features ancient pagodas, halls, and gardens, as well as cultural relics and religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the tranquil grounds, attend Buddhist ceremonies, and admire the temple's architectural beauty. Nanjing Museum (南京博物院) - Nánjīng Bówùyuàn Description: Nanjing Museum is one of China's largest and most comprehensive museums, showcasing the history, art, and culture of Nanjing and the Jiangsu province. The museum's extensive collections include archaeological artifacts, fine art, ceramics, and cultural relics, as well as interactive exhibits, educational programs, and temporary exhibitions. Presidential Palace (总统府) - Zǒngtǒng Fǔ Description: Presidential Palace is a historic complex serving as the former official residence of Chinese presidents. The palace features traditional Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and historical exhibitions, offering insights into China's modern history and political developments. Visitors can explore the ornate halls, courtyards, and memorial halls, as well as attend cultural events and performances. Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge (南京长江大桥) - Nánjīng Chángjiāng Dàqiáo Description: Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is a landmark bridge spanning the Yangtze River, connecting the districts of Pukou and Xiaguan. The bridge offers panoramic views of the river, city skyline, and surrounding landscapes, as well as opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the scenic riverfront. Porcelain Tower of Nanjing (南京瓷塔) - Nánjīng Cítǎ Description: Porcelain Tower of Nanjing is a historic pagoda renowned for its exquisite architecture and ornate porcelain decorations. Originally built in the 15th century, the pagoda was reconstructed in the 21st century and now serves as a cultural landmark and museum. Visitors can admire the pagoda's intricate design, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views from the top. Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵) - Míng Xiàolíng Description: Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress. Located at the foot of Purple Mountain, the mausoleum complex features grand gateways, sacred pathways, and ancient stone sculptures, as well as serene forested surroundings ideal for contemplation and reflection. Nanjing Drum Tower (南京鼓楼) - Nánjīng Gǔlóu Description: Nanjing Drum Tower is a historic landmark dating back to the Ming Dynasty, located in the heart of Nanjing's city center. The tower once served as a military command post and timekeeping facility, and today houses a museum showcasing Nanjing's cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about the tower's history and significance. Xiaoling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty (明孝陵) - Míng Xiàolíng Description: Xiaoling Tomb is the burial site of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress. Located at the foot of Purple Mountain, the tomb complex encompasses grand gateways, pathways, and scenic gardens, as well as historical artifacts and sculptures. Visitors can explore the serene surroundings, pay respects to the Ming Dynasty's founder, and learn about imperial burial customs. Nanjing Museum of Paleontology (南京古生物博物馆) - Nánjīng Gǔshēngwù Bówùguǎn Description: Nanjing Museum of Paleontology is dedicated to the study and exhibition of fossils and prehistoric artifacts. The museum's collections include dinosaur fossils, ancient plants, and geological specimens, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs exploring Earth's natural history and evolution. Nanjing Presidential Palace (南京总统府) - Nánjīng Zǒngtǒng Fǔ Description: Nanjing Presidential Palace is a historic complex serving as the former official residence of Chinese presidents. The palace features traditional Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and historical exhibitions, offering insights into China's modern history and political developments. Visitors can explore the ornate halls, courtyards, and memorial halls, as well as attend cultural events and exhibitions. Jiming Temple Scenic Area (鸡鸣寺风景名胜区) - Jīmíng Sì Fēngjǐng Míngshèng Qū Description: Jiming Temple Scenic Area encompasses the historic Jiming Temple complex, as well as surrounding parks, gardens, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore ancient temples, pagodas, and stone inscriptions, as well as enjoy scenic walks, cultural performances, and panoramic views of Nanjing's skyline. Mochou Lake Park (莫愁湖公园) - Mòchóu Hú Gōngyuán Description: Mochou Lake Park is a scenic parkland surrounding Mochou Lake, offering a tranquil retreat amidst Nanjing's urban landscape. Visitors can stroll along lakeside promenades, admire seasonal flowers and gardens, and enjoy recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. The park also features cultural attractions, pavilions, and historic sites. Nanjing Drum Tower (南京鼓楼) - Nánjīng Gǔlóu Description: Nanjing Drum Tower is a historic landmark located in the heart of Nanjing's city center, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The tower once served as a military command post and timekeeping facility, and today houses a museum showcasing Nanjing's cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about the tower's history and significance. Porcelain Tower Site Park (瓷塔遗址公园) - Cítǎ Yízhǐ Gōngyuán Description: Porcelain Tower Site Park is a historic site commemorating the location of the former Porcelain Tower of Nanjing, a renowned pagoda destroyed during the Qing Dynasty. The park features archaeological remains, cultural exhibits, and reconstructed pagoda foundations, as well as landscaped gardens, sculptures, and panoramic views of Nanjing's skyline. Nanjing Botanical Garden (南京植物园) - Nánjīng Zhíwù Yuán Description: Nanjing Botanical Garden is a vast botanical reserve featuring diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and natural habitats. Visitors can explore walking trails, greenhouses, and scenic viewpoints, as well as participate in educational programs, workshops, and gardening activities. The garden also hosts seasonal flower shows, plant exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year. Qinhuai River Scenic Area (秦淮风光带) - Qínhuái Fēngguāng Dài Description: Qinhuai River Scenic Area is a historic waterfront district renowned for its cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and traditional architecture. Visitors can take leisurely boat cruises along the river, explore ancient streets and alleys, and admire historic landmarks such as Confucius Temple, Nanjing City Wall, and Zhonghua Gate. The area also offers opportunities for shopping, dining, and experiencing Nanjing's vibrant nightlife. Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (南京大屠杀纪念馆) - Nánjīng Dàtúshā Jìniànguǎn Description: Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall is a somber memorial dedicated to the victims of the Nanjing Massacre during World War II. The memorial hall features historical exhibits, documentary films, and testimonies from survivors, as well as educational programs and activities promoting peace, reconciliation, and remembrance.

With Neutrality Studies and Warwick Powell ... With BreakThrough News ... With the Schiller Institute and Larry Wilkerson ... With Brian Berletic / The New Atlas ... With Harvey in China ... With Jason / Living in China ...

With Roaming N Watching ... With Fyfy & Nyny ... QiBao Ancient Town visitor guide Overview QiBao Ancient Town, located in the MinHang district of ShangHai, is a picturesque water town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, historical sites, and traditional culture. The name "QiBao" means "Seven Treasures," and the town is famous for its seven historic treasures, though only a few remain today. QiBao offers visitors a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage and a chance to experience traditional JiangNan water town scenery. History QiBao Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years to the Northern Song Dynasty. It flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties as a prosperous commercial hub. Today, QiBao retains much of its historical charm, with well-preserved buildings, stone bridges, and narrow canals that transport visitors back in time. Main Attractions QiBao Temple QiBao Temple is a significant religious and cultural site in the town. Originally built during the Song Dynasty, the temple has undergone several restorations. It is an important place of worship and a symbol of the town's spiritual heritage. QiBao Old Street QiBao Old Street is the heart of the ancient town, lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and food stalls. The street is divided into North Street and South Street, each offering unique experiences and local delicacies. QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum The QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum showcases the traditional Chinese art of shadow puppetry. Visitors can learn about the history of shadow plays, watch live performances, and even try their hand at manipulating the puppets. QiBao Zhuzhai (Old Residences) QiBao Zhuzhai are ancient residential buildings that offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of QiBao's inhabitants. These well-preserved houses reflect the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties and provide insight into the daily lives of ancient Chinese families. Culture and Traditions QiBao Ancient Town is a cultural gem that showcases traditional JiangNan water town culture. The town is known for its traditional crafts, local cuisine, and cultural performances. Visitors can explore the various workshops and studios where artisans create silk, paper-cuts, and other traditional handicrafts. Activities and Experiences Boat Rides One of the best ways to experience QiBao Ancient Town is by taking a boat ride along its narrow canals. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the town's architecture and serene waterways, providing a peaceful and scenic experience. Food Tasting QiBao is renowned for its local delicacies, including QiBao rice cakes, braised pork, and stinky tofu. The food stalls and restaurants along QiBao Old Street offer a wide variety of traditional snacks and dishes that are a must-try for visitors. Cultural Performances Visitors to QiBao can enjoy various cultural performances, including traditional Chinese opera, shadow plays, and folk music. These performances are often held in public squares and cultural centers, providing an authentic cultural experience. Accommodation QiBao Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides an immersive experience and a chance to enjoy the town's charm after the day-trippers have left. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit QiBao Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting There: QiBao Ancient Town is located about 18 kilometers from ShangHai city center. It is accessible by metro (Line 9, QiBao Station) or by taxi. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Entrance Fees: There is no entrance fee for the town itself, but some attractions and museums within the town may charge a small fee. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the town's streets are paved with cobblestones and can be uneven. Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and cultural sites, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

People's Park. With Walk - Fly - Drive ...

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.

LiJiang is primarily home to the NaXi ethnic minority. XiShuangBanNa is close to the border with Myanmar.