Planning war on China – the succinct version

With Beijing Old Liu ... Mangshan Wuzhifeng, Xiongqi, and Waterfalls Visitor Guide Mangshan Wuzhifeng, located in Hunan Province, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its rugged peaks, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. With its nickname "Wuzhifeng" (Five-Finger Peaks), the area is a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a tranquil escape. How to Get There By Air: The nearest airport is Changsha Huanghua International Airport. From there, you can take a train or bus to Mangshan Scenic Area. By Train: The high-speed rail to Chenzhou or Yongzhou offers connections to Mangshan by bus or private car. By Road: Direct buses from Chenzhou or nearby towns are available to the scenic area. Top Attractions Wuzhifeng (Five-Finger Peaks) These iconic peaks resemble a hand reaching towards the sky. The view from the summit provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding forested valleys and rugged terrain. It's a must-visit for photography and hiking enthusiasts. Xiongqi Waterfalls The area is dotted with numerous waterfalls cascading from great heights. The Xiongqi Waterfalls are particularly stunning, with their powerful flow and mist creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the cooling spray during warm months. Mangshan Forest This lush forest is home to diverse flora and fauna. The forest is known for its giant ancient trees, rare plants, and a variety of bird species. It’s a great spot for nature walks and birdwatching. Cloud Sea Viewing On misty mornings, the valleys below Wuzhifeng are often filled with a sea of clouds, creating an otherworldly landscape. Sunrise views are particularly spectacular from designated observation decks. Golden Dragon Pool Located within the scenic area, this serene pool is surrounded by verdant greenery and is perfect for quiet reflection and relaxation. Activities and Experiences Hiking trails leading to the peaks and viewpoints. Exploring the waterfalls and enjoying the cool mist. Camping under the stars for an immersive nature experience. Photography of the unique landscapes and vibrant biodiversity. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting in the forest. Best Time to Visit Spring (March–May): Mild weather and blooming flowers make this season ideal for exploring. Autumn (September–November): Cool temperatures and colorful foliage enhance the scenic beauty. Summer (June–August): The waterfalls are at their most vibrant due to the rainy season, offering refreshing experiences. Local Tips Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring rain gear if visiting during the rainy season. Carry water and snacks, as facilities may be limited on certain trails. Arrive early to enjoy the best light for photography and avoid long waits at viewpoints. Additional Information Entrance Fee: Tickets are required for access to the scenic area and can be purchased at the entrance or online. Transportation: Shuttle buses within the scenic area provide access to major attractions. Accommodations: Nearby towns offer a range of hotels and guesthouses, including eco-friendly lodges. With its dramatic peaks, enchanting waterfalls, and serene forest trails, Mangshan Wuzhifeng and Xiongqi Waterfalls promise an unforgettable experience for every nature enthusiast. Detian Waterfall Visitor Guide Detian Waterfall, located on the border between China and Vietnam in Guangxi Province, is one of Asia's most magnificent natural wonders. The cascading falls span both countries, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. How to Get There By Air: The nearest airport is Nanning Wuxu International Airport, approximately 210 km from the waterfall. From Nanning, you can take a bus or hire a private car to reach the site. By Train: Trains to Chongzuo or Daxin County provide access to Detian Waterfall via local transportation. By Bus: Buses from Nanning or nearby towns like Daxin County operate regularly to the scenic area. Top Highlights The Waterfall Detian Waterfall is a multi-tiered cascade that stretches over 200 meters wide, with a drop of 70 meters. It is fed by the Guichun River, creating a thundering spectacle, especially during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak. Border Views As the waterfall straddles the border between China and Vietnam, visitors can enjoy views of both countries. Vietnamese fishing boats often add charm to the scene, and the unique geography makes this a one-of-a-kind destination. Rafting Experience Visitors can take a bamboo raft to get up close to the falls, feeling the mist and hearing the roar of the cascading water. It's an exhilarating way to experience the power and beauty of the waterfall. Surrounding Scenery The area around Detian Waterfall is lush with greenery, karst formations, and rice terraces, creating a serene and picturesque environment for exploration and photography. Local Culture The region is home to the Zhuang ethnic group, and visitors can experience traditional Zhuang culture, including music, dance, and local cuisine. Best Time to Visit Spring (March–May): The weather is mild, and the scenery is vibrant with blooming flowers and fresh greenery. Summer (June–August): The rainy season enhances the water flow, making the falls even more majestic. Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and cooler temperatures provide excellent conditions for sightseeing. Activities and Tips Take a bamboo raft ride to experience the falls up close. Visit the observation decks for panoramic views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. Explore nearby villages to learn about local customs and enjoy authentic Zhuang cuisine. Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the beauty without worry. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the area. Additional Information Entrance Fee: Tickets are required to access the Detian Scenic Area and can be purchased online or at the entrance. Transportation: Shuttle buses are available within the scenic area to help visitors access key spots. Accommodations: Nearby towns offer a variety of accommodations, including guesthouses and boutique hotels. Whether you're seeking natural beauty, cultural immersion, or a peaceful retreat, Detian Waterfall offers a memorable experience in one of China's most enchanting landscapes.

Eckhart Tolle in conversation with Deepak Chopra and Wayne Dyer ...

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

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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.

HuNan province. With Walk East ...

With Jordan Porter.

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