Planning war on China – part 38 – Don’t miss it !!

With All By Ana Paula ...

A beautiful and creative short film by Francis So ...

Filmed in 2012 ...

With Blondie in China ... Visitor Guide to LanZhou, GanSu Province Overview LanZhou, the capital city of GanSu Province, is a major transportation and cultural hub located in the northwest of China. Famous for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and the iconic Yellow River, LanZhou offers a unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern development. Getting There By Air: LanZhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) is located about 70 kilometers from the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights. You can take an airport shuttle bus or a taxi to reach the city center. By Train: LanZhou is a major railway hub with connections to many cities across China. The LanZhou Railway Station and LanZhou West Railway Station serve both high-speed and regular trains. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect LanZhou to various cities in GanSu Province and beyond. The main bus stations are LanZhou East Bus Station and LanZhou West Bus Station. Getting Around Public Transport: LanZhou has an extensive bus network and a developing 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: LanZhou is bike-friendly, and bike-sharing services are popular and convenient for short trips. Main Attractions Zhongshan Bridge (Yellow River Iron Bridge) The Zhongshan Bridge, also known as the First Bridge over the Yellow River, is an iconic historical landmark. Built in 1907, it offers stunning views of the Yellow River and is a great spot for a leisurely walk. White Pagoda Mountain (Baita Mountain) White Pagoda Mountain provides a panoramic view of LanZhou and the Yellow River. The mountain is named after the White Pagoda Temple located on its summit. The temple and surrounding park are perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty. Gansu Provincial Museum This museum is a treasure trove of cultural relics and historical artifacts, showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of GanSu Province. Highlights include ancient Silk Road artifacts, fossils, and traditional Tibetan and Han exhibits. Waterwheel Garden The Waterwheel Garden is a unique park featuring large, traditional waterwheels that were once used for irrigation along the Yellow River. The park provides insight into the agricultural history of the region and is a pleasant place for a stroll. Bingling Temple Grottoes Located about 75 kilometers from LanZhou, the Bingling Temple Grottoes are renowned for their Buddhist cave carvings and statues, some dating back to the Western Qin dynasty. The grottoes are accessible by boat from the Liujiaxia Reservoir. Local Cuisine LanZhou is famous for its delicious and unique cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes: LanZhou Beef Noodles: Also known as "Lamian," these hand-pulled noodles are served in a flavorful beef broth with slices of tender beef, radish, and fresh herbs. Niang Pi: A cold noodle dish made from wheat or rice flour, often served with a spicy sauce and various toppings like cucumber and bean sprouts. Rou Jia Mo: Often referred to as the Chinese hamburger, it consists of a flatbread filled with seasoned, shredded meat. Yellow River Carp: Freshly caught from the Yellow River, this fish is typically braised or steamed and served with a savory sauce. Shopping Zhengning Road Night Market: A bustling night market offering a variety of local snacks, street food, and souvenirs. Xiguan Mosque Market: Located near the Xiguan Mosque, this market features ethnic Hui products, traditional handicrafts, and a variety of halal foods. Qilihe Market: A large wholesale market where you can find everything from clothing and electronics to fresh produce and household items. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Crowne Plaza LanZhou or the Wanda Vista LanZhou, both offering excellent amenities and service. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Ibis LanZhou Zhangye Road and the James Joyce Coffetel provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the LanZhou Lemon Tree Youth Hostel offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit LanZhou are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially in areas with significant Muslim Hui populations. Dress modestly and be mindful of dietary restrictions when dining out. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Stay Hydrated: LanZhou has a dry climate, so drink plenty of water, especially if you are hiking or spending time outdoors. Conclusion LanZhou, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient grottoes, savoring the famous beef noodles, or strolling along the Yellow River, LanZhou has something for every traveler. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of this fascinating city in GanSu Province.

TiánZǐFāng is a neighborhood of labyrinthine alleyways off TaiKang Road (TàiKāng Lù). TianZiFang is known for small craft stores, coffee shops, trendy art studios and narrow alleys. It has become a popular tourist destination in ShangHai, and an example of the preservation of local ShiKuMen architecture, with some similarities to XinTianDi.

Plus DunHuang oasis and ZhangYe DanXia GeoPark, all in GanSu province.

ZheJiang province

With Nick in China ... With Valerly Blank ... Visitor guide to YinChuan, capital of NingXia province Getting There By Air: YinChuan Hedong International Airport (INC) is well-connected with major Chinese cities. The airport is about 25 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a taxi or airport shuttle bus to your destination. By Train: YinChuan Railway Station offers regular train services to various cities across China, including Beijing, Xi'an, and Lanzhou. The high-speed train network makes travel convenient and efficient. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect YinChuan with other cities in NingXia and neighboring provinces. The YinChuan Long-Distance Bus Station is the main hub for these services. Accommodation YinChuan offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Some recommended options include: Luxury: Kempinski Hotel YinChuan, YinChuan International Convention Centre Hotel Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Express YinChuan Downtown, YinChuan XiYue International Hotel Budget: YinChuan Youth Hostel, various local guesthouses Attractions and Activities Historical and Cultural Sites Western Xia Tombs: Located about 35 kilometers from YinChuan, these ancient tombs are the resting place of the emperors of the Western Xia Dynasty. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the dynasty. NingXia Museum: This museum showcases the rich history and culture of NingXia, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art. HaiBao Pagoda: Also known as the North Pagoda, this ancient Buddhist pagoda is one of the oldest and most well-preserved structures in YinChuan. Natural Attractions Sand Lake: A beautiful nature reserve located about 56 kilometers from YinChuan, Sand Lake is known for its stunning desert and wetland landscapes. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, boat rides, and sand dune activities. Helan Mountains: These mountains offer breathtaking scenery and numerous hiking trails. The region is also home to ancient rock carvings and the Helan Mountain Scenic Area. Modern Attractions Drum Tower: A central landmark in YinChuan, the Drum Tower is surrounded by bustling markets and streets lined with shops and restaurants. Zhongshan Park: A popular urban park that offers a peaceful escape with its beautiful gardens, lakes, and recreational facilities. Dining and Local Specialties YinChuan boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional NingXia cuisine and Hui Muslim specialties. Some must-try dishes include: Lamb Kebabs: A local favorite, these skewered and grilled lamb pieces are seasoned with a blend of spices. Hand-Pulled Noodles: Known locally as "Lamian," these noodles are served in a flavorful broth with beef or lamb. Eight-Treasure Tea: A traditional NingXia beverage made with a mix of tea leaves, dried fruits, and herbs. Shopping Night Markets: Explore the bustling night markets in YinChuan for a variety of street food, local handicrafts, and souvenirs. Shopping Malls: Modern shopping centers like Wanda Plaza and YinChuan Mall offer a wide range of international and local brands. Local Handicrafts: Look for traditional NingXia crafts such as Helan stone carvings, wool products, and Hui embroidery. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit YinChuan are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes. Summers can be hot, and winters can be quite cold, so pack accordingly. Language: While Mandarin is the official language, some locals may speak the NingXia dialect. It's helpful to have a translation app or phrasebook if you don't speak Mandarin. Respect Local Customs: NingXia has a significant Hui Muslim population, so be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques and Hui neighborhoods. Conclusion YinChuan, the capital of NingXia Province, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring ancient tombs, hiking in the mountains, or savoring local cuisine, YinChuan promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.