Planning war on China – update – 03 July 2023

Top 30 places to visit in and around HangZhou : West Lake (西湖, Xī Hú): Explore the scenic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with boat rides and leisurely strolls around the lake. Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺, Língyǐn Sì): Visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China, known for its ancient architecture and serene surroundings. Qinghefang Ancient Street (清河坊古街, Qīnghéfāng Gǔjiē): Wander through this historic street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and street food vendors. Longjing Tea Plantation (龙井茶园, Lóngjǐng Cháyuán): Experience tea culture and enjoy a scenic hike through the picturesque tea fields. Hefang Street (河坊街, Héfāng Jiē): Discover a lively pedestrian street filled with shops selling local crafts, snacks, and souvenirs. China National Tea Museum (中国茶叶博物馆, Zhōngguó Cháyè Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of tea in China through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Xixi Wetland Park (西溪湿地, Xīxī Shīdì): Enjoy nature walks, boat rides, and birdwatching in this scenic wetland park. Huqingyu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum (胡庆余堂药店博物馆, Húqìngyútáng Yàodiàn Bówùguǎn): Explore the history of traditional Chinese medicine and herbal remedies. Song Dynasty Town (宋城, Sòng Chéng): Step back in time to the Song Dynasty era and experience traditional architecture, performances, and cultural activities. National Silk Museum (中国丝绸博物馆, Zhōngguó Sīchóu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the ancient art of silk production and admire exquisite silk artifacts. Hangzhou Zoo (杭州动物园, Hángzhōu Dòngwùyuán): Spend a day with the family exploring the diverse animal exhibits and enjoying fun activities. Thousand Island Lake (千岛湖, Qiāndǎo Hú): Take a scenic boat cruise on this vast reservoir surrounded by lush green mountains. Six Harmonies Pagoda (六和塔, Liùhé Tǎ): Climb to the top of this ancient pagoda for panoramic views of the Qiantang River and surrounding landscapes. China Academy of Art (中国美术学院, Zhōngguó Měishù Xuéyuàn): Visit the campus and galleries of one of China's leading art institutions. Hangzhou Botanical Garden (杭州植物园, Hángzhōu Zhíwùyuán): Explore the diverse plant collections and scenic landscapes of this botanical garden. Grand Canal (大运河, Dà Yùnhé): Take a boat tour or stroll along the historic Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over 1,000 years. China National Silk Museum (中国丝绸博物馆, Zhōngguó Sīchóu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the ancient art of silk production and admire exquisite silk artifacts. Hangzhou Paradise (杭州乐园, Hángzhōu Lèyuán): Have a thrilling day of fun and excitement with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Xiling Seal Engravers Society (西泠印社, Xī Líng Yìn Shè): Discover the art of seal engraving and calligraphy at this historic society and museum. Hangzhou Safari Park (杭州野生动物世界, Hángzhōu Yěshēng Dòngwù Shìjiè): Get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the world in this sprawling safari park. Hangzhou Wetland Science Museum (杭州湿地科技馆, Hángzhōu Shīdì Kējìguǎn): Learn about wetland ecosystems and environmental conservation through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

On the south east coast of China, with ZheJiang to the north and GuangDong to the south. In part, FuJian is famous for its tea and lychee fruit. The largest cities include FuZhou (the capital) and XiaMen. Hakka, a Han Chinese people but with their own distinct identity, live in the southern parts of the province. The Hakka are most associated with their unique TuLou - large, round, communal dwellings.

YuYuan Garden, NanJing Road, the Bund and PuDong.

With Andy see the World ... Visitor Guide to ShanHaiGuan Overview ShanHaiGuan, located in QinHuangDao City, HeBei Province, is a renowned historical site known as the "First Pass Under Heaven." It is one of the most well-preserved and strategically important passes of the Great Wall of China, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into China's ancient military history and stunning coastal scenery. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is QinHuangDao Beidaihe Airport (BPE), located about 20 kilometers from ShanHaiGuan. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to ShanHaiGuan. By Train: ShanHaiGuan Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like BeiJing, TianJin, and Shenyang. High-speed trains make it convenient to reach ShanHaiGuan from these cities. By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities, including QinHuangDao and TianJin. The main bus station in ShanHaiGuan is ShanHaiGuan Long-Distance Bus Station. Getting Around Walking: The historic area of ShanHaiGuan is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient architecture and fortifications. Biking: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and nearby attractions at your own pace. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of ShanHaiGuan and QinHuangDao. Main Attractions First Pass Under Heaven (Zhenyuan Tower) This iconic gate is the easternmost point of the Great Wall and marks the starting point of the ancient defense line. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Great Wall stretching towards the mountains and the sea. Old Dragon's Head (Laolongtou) Located where the Great Wall meets the Bohai Sea, the Old Dragon's Head is a dramatic and picturesque site. The fortifications extend into the sea, resembling a dragon drinking water. It's a unique and breathtaking part of the Great Wall. ShanHaiGuan Great Wall Museum The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history, construction, and significance of the Great Wall. Exhibits include artifacts, models, and interactive displays that bring the history of this monumental structure to life. Jiumenkou Great Wall This section of the Great Wall is unique for its series of nine gates and the river that flows beneath it. The Jiumenkou Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating look at ancient military engineering. Wang Family Courtyard This well-preserved traditional courtyard residence offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy family during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The courtyard is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and traditional furnishings. Local Cuisine ShanHaiGuan's cuisine is influenced by its coastal location and northern Chinese culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes: Seafood: Fresh seafood from the Bohai Sea, including fish, shrimp, and crab, is a highlight of local dining. QinHuangDao Dumplings: These dumplings are known for their thin skins and generous fillings, often served with a dipping sauce. Jiaozi (Dumplings): A variety of steamed or boiled dumplings filled with meat, vegetables, or seafood. Local Snacks: Try street food such as fried dough twists, roasted sweet potatoes, and various grilled skewers. Shopping Local Handicrafts: ShanHaiGuan is known for its traditional handicrafts, including paper-cutting, clay figurines, and embroidery. These items make for unique souvenirs. Antique Markets: Explore local antique markets for historical artifacts, vintage items, and collectibles. Seafood Markets: Purchase fresh or dried seafood to take home or enjoy while you're in the area. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel QinHuangDao or the Sheraton QinHuangDao Beidaihe Hotel, both offering excellent amenities and service. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Best Western Junyu Grand Hotel and QinHuangDao Grand Hotel provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the ShanHaiGuan Youth Hostel offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit ShanHaiGuan 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: ShanHaiGuan is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the historical sites, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion ShanHaiGuan, with its rich history, strategic importance, and stunning coastal scenery, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient fortifications, savoring fresh seafood, or strolling along the Great Wall, ShanHaiGuan provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this fascinating destination in HeBei Province.

With Trevor / The Food Ranger ...

The first time I went to JuYong Pass was a coach trip and we had only an hour at this stop on the tour. Yet I was determined to get to the top and return to the coach on time. Result - absolute exhaustion, but I did manage to get some photos along the way :) In this video, a lot of the early part of the climb is skipped, but I still think you will get the picture. JuYongGuan is the inner pass of BaDaLing Great Wall. A great movie moment, superb filming ...

The exceedingly beautiful falls lie on the China - Vietnam border. The largest waterfall is over 200 meters wide and has a drop of more than 70 meters, in three tiers.