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With China Walking Tour ... Visitor Guide to JiNan, ShanDong Province Overview JiNan, the capital city of ShanDong Province, is known for its natural springs, rich history, and vibrant culture. Often referred to as the "City of Springs," JiNan is a blend of historical landmarks and modern development, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. Getting There By Air: JiNan Yaoqiang International Airport (TNA) is located about 33 kilometers northeast of the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights. You can take an airport shuttle bus, taxi, or the JiNan Metro to reach the city center. By Train: JiNan is a major railway hub with two main stations: JiNan Railway Station and JiNan West Railway Station. Both stations offer high-speed rail connections to major cities like BeiJing, ShangHai, and Xi’an. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect JiNan to various cities in ShanDong Province and beyond. The main bus stations are JiNan Long-Distance Bus Terminal and JiNan East Bus Station. Getting Around Public Transport: JiNan has an extensive bus network and a growing metro system. The metro is convenient for getting around the city quickly. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. Biking: Bike-sharing services are popular and convenient for short trips around the city. Main Attractions Baotu Spring Park Baotu Spring Park is one of JiNan's most famous attractions, known for its clear and gushing springs. The park is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the natural scenery, traditional pavilions, and cultural performances. Daming Lake Daming Lake is a large natural lake in the heart of JiNan, surrounded by lush gardens, ancient pavilions, and historic temples. It is a popular spot for boating, picnicking, and enjoying the serene environment. Thousand Buddha Mountain (Qianfo Shan) This mountain is famous for its ancient Buddhist statues and temples. Visitors can hike to the top for a panoramic view of the city or explore the many caves and carvings along the way. ShanDong Provincial Museum ShanDong Provincial Museum houses a vast collection of cultural relics, historical artifacts, and natural exhibits. It offers a comprehensive overview of ShanDong's history and culture. Black Tiger Spring Black Tiger Spring is another renowned spring in JiNan, known for its powerful jets of water that resemble a tiger's roar. The spring is located in a scenic park with beautiful landscaping and walking paths. Local Cuisine JiNan's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Here are some must-try dishes: JiNan Roast Duck: A local specialty, this roast duck is known for its crispy skin and tender meat, served with pancakes and hoisin sauce. Sweet and Sour Carp: Fresh carp from Daming Lake, prepared in a tangy and sweet sauce, is a signature dish of JiNan. JiNan Noodles: These hand-pulled noodles are often served with a variety of toppings, including meat, vegetables, and spicy sauces. Fried Dumplings: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, JiNan's fried dumplings are a popular street food. Shopping Furong Street: A bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, street food vendors, and souvenir stalls. It's a great place to try local snacks and buy traditional crafts. Quancheng Road: One of JiNan's main shopping streets, offering a mix of modern malls, boutique shops, and local markets. JiNan Wanda Plaza: A large shopping mall with a variety of international and domestic brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel JiNan or the Hyatt Regency JiNan, both offering excellent amenities and service. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Sofitel JiNan Silver Plaza and Holiday Inn JiNan City Center provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the JiNan Blue Horizon Hotel offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit JiNan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: JiNan is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the parks, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion JiNan, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural springs, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, savoring the local cuisine, or strolling along the scenic lakes and springs, JiNan provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this fascinating city in ShanDong Province.

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With Beautiful China ... XiaSi Ancient Town - Dong Village Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of XiaSi Ancient Town XiaSi Ancient Town, located in the Dong Village of GuiZhou Province, is a historic town that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Dong ethnic group. With a history dating back over 800 years, XiaSi is renowned for its traditional Dong architecture, unique drum towers, and wind and rain bridges. The town's preservation of ancient customs and traditions provides a living snapshot of Dong culture that has been passed down through generations. Top Attractions in XiaSi Ancient Town 1. Drum Tower The Drum Tower is the symbol of the Dong people and serves as the heart of the village. It is a traditional wooden structure used for gatherings and ceremonies. The intricate carvings and unique architecture make it a must-see. 2. Wind and Rain Bridge The Wind and Rain Bridge, also known as the Flower Bridge, is an iconic piece of Dong architecture. It serves not only as a bridge but also as a place for villagers to rest and socialize, sheltered from the elements. 3. Dong Opera Stage The open-air Dong Opera Stage is a cultural gem where traditional Dong performances are held. Visitors can experience the rich storytelling and music that characterize Dong opera. 4. Dong Residential Houses Stroll through the village to see the traditional stilted wooden houses of the Dong people. These homes are built using ancient techniques and showcase the unique architectural style of the Dong community. Activities to Enjoy 1. Participate in a Dong Dance Join the locals in a traditional Dong dance. The Dong people are known for their vibrant dance and music, often performed in the village square or around the Drum Tower. 2. Explore Local Handicrafts Visit local workshops to see artisans creating traditional Dong handicrafts, including embroidery, silver jewelry, and wooden carvings. You can also purchase these items as souvenirs. 3. Attend a Dong Wedding Ceremony If you're lucky, you might witness a traditional Dong wedding ceremony. These ceremonies are colorful and vibrant, featuring music, dance, and traditional rituals. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Dong Rice Wine Dong rice wine is a traditional beverage made from glutinous rice. It has a sweet flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. 2. Sour Fish Soup This is a popular dish among the Dong people, made with fresh fish, pickled vegetables, and spices. The soup has a distinctive sour and spicy flavor. 3. Glutinous Rice Cakes Glutinous rice cakes are a traditional snack in Dong cuisine. They are often filled with sweet or savory ingredients and steamed to perfection. How to Get There By Bus From Guiyang, the capital of GuiZhou, you can take a long-distance bus to Liping County, followed by a local bus to XiaSi. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours. By Train Take a train to Kaili, a nearby city in GuiZhou. From Kaili, buses are available to Liping County and then to XiaSi Ancient Town. By Car If you prefer driving, renting a car from Guiyang or Kaili is an option. The roads to XiaSi are scenic but can be narrow and winding, so drive with caution. Travel Tips for XiaSi Ancient Town Learn a few basic phrases in the Dong language to connect better with locals. They appreciate the effort! Respect local customs and traditions, especially during ceremonies and cultural events. Bring comfortable walking shoes as you will be exploring on foot, often on uneven paths. Plan your visit during one of the Dong festivals, such as the Dong New Year, to experience the vibrant local culture.

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