A panda in Hong Kong 香港

With XiaoQianFeng ...

With Wei's Travel ... ShangHai can be considered a 'garden city' due to its extensive green spaces, parks, and efforts to integrate nature within its urban environment. Here are some key aspects that contribute to this : ### Extensive Green Spaces and Parks 1. **Large Urban Parks**: Shanghai is home to numerous large parks such as Century Park, Gongqing Forest Park, and Shanghai Botanical Garden. These parks provide significant green spaces within the city and offer residents and visitors places to relax and enjoy nature. 2. **Green Belt**: The city has developed green belts and corridors that integrate natural elements into the urban landscape, helping to connect different green spaces and providing continuous natural areas for walking, cycling, and leisure. ### Historical and Traditional Gardens 3. **Traditional Chinese Gardens**: Shanghai boasts several well-preserved traditional Chinese gardens, such as Yu Garden (YuYuan), which exemplify classical Chinese garden design with ponds, rockeries, pavilions, and intricate landscaping. These gardens reflect the city's historical commitment to integrating nature with urban living. ### Urban Greening Initiatives 4. **Street Landscaping**: Many of Shanghai's streets are lined with trees, flowers, and shrubs, contributing to a greener urban environment. The city has invested in extensive landscaping to enhance the aesthetic appeal and environmental quality of its streets and boulevards. 5. **Vertical Gardens and Green Roofs**: Shanghai has embraced innovative urban greening techniques such as vertical gardens and green roofs on buildings. These initiatives help to increase the amount of greenery in densely populated urban areas and contribute to better air quality and urban biodiversity. ### Green Urban Planning 6. **Sustainable Development**: Shanghai's urban planning policies emphasize sustainable development and the creation of eco-friendly urban spaces. This includes the development of eco-districts and the incorporation of green spaces into new residential and commercial developments. 7. **Waterfront Revitalization**: The revitalization of waterfront areas along the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek has included the creation of green promenades, parks, and recreational areas that provide residents with access to nature and enhance the city's overall green infrastructure. ### Community and Public Engagement 8. **Public Involvement**: The city encourages public participation in maintaining and developing green spaces through community gardens and public involvement initiatives. This engagement helps to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for the city's natural environments. ### Environmental Conservation 9. **Biodiversity Conservation**: Efforts to preserve and enhance biodiversity within the city, such as the creation of urban wildlife habitats and conservation areas, contribute to Shanghai's identity as a garden city. ### Seasonal Flower Displays 10. **Flower Festivals and Displays**: Shanghai hosts various flower festivals and seasonal floral displays that enhance the city's visual appeal and celebrate its botanical diversity. These events attract tourists and residents alike, further emphasizing the city's green character. ### Conclusion Shanghai's commitment to integrating green spaces and nature into its urban environment through parks, traditional gardens, innovative greening techniques, and sustainable urban planning practices helps to position it as a 'garden city.' These efforts not only enhance the city's aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the well-being of its residents and the sustainability of its urban ecosystem.

With Wild Girl ...

With Walk East ... XiaSi Ancient Town visitor guide Overview XiaSi Ancient Town, located in GuiZhou province, is a charming and picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into China's rich cultural and historical heritage. Known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, winding streets, and vibrant local culture, XiaSi Ancient Town is a must-visit for those looking to explore the beauty and history of rural China. History XiaSi Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years. The town was an important commercial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties, serving as a center for trade and cultural exchange. Many of the town's buildings and structures have been carefully preserved, allowing visitors to experience the architectural styles and cultural atmosphere of ancient China. Main Attractions Ancient Streets The ancient streets of XiaSi are lined with well-preserved traditional buildings, shops, and residences. These narrow, winding streets offer a charming and authentic experience, transporting visitors back in time. The architecture reflects the unique styles of the Ming and Qing dynasties, with intricate wooden carvings, tiled roofs, and stone-paved pathways. Traditional Residences XiaSi Ancient Town is home to numerous traditional residences that showcase the local architectural styles and building techniques. Many of these homes have been converted into museums or guesthouses, allowing visitors to explore their interiors and learn more about the town's history and culture. Local Temples The town features several historic temples that are important cultural and religious sites. These temples are beautifully decorated with traditional artwork and serve as places of worship and community gatherings. Visitors can explore the temples, learn about local religious practices, and enjoy the serene and spiritual atmosphere. Market Square The market square is the heart of XiaSi Ancient Town, bustling with activity and vibrant with local life. Here, visitors can find a variety of traditional crafts, local delicacies, and handmade souvenirs. The market is an excellent place to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly residents. Culture and Traditions XiaSi Ancient Town is rich in cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on preserving traditional customs and practices. The town is home to various ethnic groups, each contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of the area. Visitors can witness traditional festivals, folk performances, and artisan crafts that reflect the unique cultural identity of the region. Activities and Experiences Walking Tours Explore XiaSi Ancient Town on foot by joining a guided walking tour. These tours provide valuable insights into the town's history, architecture, and culture, and are led by knowledgeable local guides. Walking through the ancient streets is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the town's unique charm. Shopping for Local Crafts The town's market square and shops offer a variety of traditional crafts and handmade products. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, including pottery, textiles, and wooden carvings, all crafted by local artisans. These items make for unique and meaningful mementos of your visit. Sampling Local Cuisine XiaSi Ancient Town is known for its delicious local cuisine, which reflects the flavors and traditions of GuiZhou province. Visitors can sample a range of traditional dishes at the town's restaurants and food stalls. Don't miss trying the local specialties, such as spicy hotpot, pickled vegetables, and handmade noodles. Participating in Festivals Throughout the year, XiaSi Ancient Town 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 XiaSi Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, including traditional guesthouses, boutique hotels, and homestays. Staying in a traditional guesthouse or homestay provides an authentic experience and allows visitors to interact with local residents. These accommodations often feature traditional architecture and décor, adding to the charm of your stay. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit XiaSi Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the town is less crowded. Getting There: XiaSi Ancient Town is accessible by bus or car from GuiZhou's major cities. The nearest airport is GuiYang LongDongBao International Airport, which offers connections to various domestic and international destinations. Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors year-round. Specific attractions and shops may have their own operating hours. Entrance Fees: There may be entrance fees for certain attractions within the town. It is advisable to check the latest fees before planning your visit. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as the town's streets are cobbled and can be uneven. 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 town extensively. It's also a good idea to bring snacks or purchase food from local vendors.

Are we all just living in our own bubble (prison) ? With Einzelgänger ...

With Radhika Desai and Michael Hudson ... With Ben Norton and Michael Hudson ... With BreakThroughNews and Pivot To Peace ... With Brian Berletic / The New Atlas ... With Jeffrey Sachs with Jean Dong ... With Jeffrey Sachs with Geopolitics Demystified ... With Inside China Business ... With Thinkers Forum and Kieth Rethy Chhem - on Cambodia ... With Fernando Munoz Bernal ...

The beautiful Dragon's Backbone rice terraces; about 60km from GuiLin ...

With XiangBai, aged 84. 歲泰斗：用一輩子，做好最日常的事 ... Bonus film - restoring a secluded nunnery on Cang mountain, YunNan ...