Planning war with China – part 5

Located within the LingYing Scenic Area, the temple lies in a beautiful and tranquil setting. With Go Around China ...

With Wild Girl in GuiZhou ... Bonus film - peaches ...

JiuXiang Scenic Area lies about 70 kilometres from KunMing and 47 km from the town of YiLiang. In JiuXiang, rivers and streams criss-cross karst hills and mountains. There are more than one hundred caves here that form one of the largest cave groups in China. The stalactites in the caves take on many forms in different colours. Found in the caves are numerous natural bridges, valleys, steams and waterfalls, which constitute a wonderful subterranean world. With a total area of about 200 square kilometres, JiuXiang consists of five smaller scenic areas.

I'll wait a thousand years for you ... Because you are me and I am you. The wound is where the light enters you. Before change the world, change yourself. - Rumi - 13th century Sufi sage.

Every spring, this festival takes place in the capital city as a meeting of artists of all kinds from China and countries worldwide, a cultural exchange covering everything from music - classical, pop and more - to dance, exhibitions and drama, ... expect the unexpected : ) In 2016, the festival runs from April 25 to May 30. Now in its 16th year, the festival will bring together nearly 400 Chinese artists and more than 400 international artists from 25 countries, including the United Kingdom, Spain and France. Canada will be this year's guest country of honor. As a taster, here are two wonderful performances from 2014 - first, a steel band in ChaoYang Park, second an unusual 'quartet' at the National Center for the Performing Arts (don't miss this if you love music) ... Live more !

GuangZhou: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Canton Tower (广州塔 Guǎngzhōu Tǎ): Enjoy panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest towers in the world. Chimelong Paradise (长隆欢乐世界 Chánglóng Huānlè Shìjiè): Have fun with thrilling rides and entertainment for kids of all ages. Chimelong Safari Park (长隆野生动物园 Chánglóng Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): See a variety of animals up close in this large safari park. Yuexiu Park (越秀公园 Yuèxiù Gōngyuán): Explore the lush greenery and iconic Five Ram Statue in this historic park. Guangzhou Zoo (广州动物园 Guǎngzhōu Dòngwùyuán): Visit the zoo to see pandas, elephants, and other animals. Haizhu Lake (海珠湖 Hǎizhū Hú): Take a leisurely stroll or enjoy boat rides on this picturesque lake. Guangzhou Children's Museum (广州儿童博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Értóng Bówùguǎn): Interactive museum with exhibits designed for children. Chimelong Water Park (长隆水上乐园 Chánglóng Shuǐshàng Lèyuán): Cool off in this water park featuring slides and pools. Guangzhou Science City (广州科学城 Guǎngzhōu Kēxué Chéng): Learn about science through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Baiyun Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy stunning views of the city from the mountain. Guangzhou Ocean World (广州海洋世界 Guǎngzhōu Hǎiyáng Shìjiè): Explore marine life and watch exciting performances at this aquarium. Guangzhou Library (广州图书馆 Guǎngzhōu Túshūguǎn): Discover a wide range of books and resources in this modern library. Redtory Art and Design Factory (红专厂 Hóngzhuānchǎng): Explore art galleries and creative spaces in this former factory complex. Guangzhou Crocodile Park (广州鳄鱼园 Guǎngzhōu Èyú Yuán): See a variety of crocodile species and learn about their habitats. Haixinsha Island (海心沙岛 Hǎixīnshā Dǎo): Enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities on this artificial island along the Pearl River. Guangdong Museum (广东省博物馆 Guǎngdōng Shěng Bówùguǎn): Explore the history and culture of Guangdong Province through exhibits and artifacts. Guangzhou Children's Park (广州儿童公园 Guǎngzhōu Értóng Gōngyuán): Enjoy playgrounds, rides, and family-friendly activities in this park. South China Botanical Garden (华南植物园 Huánán Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy nature walks in this botanical garden. Guangzhou Sculpture Park (广州雕塑公园 Guǎngzhōu Diāosù Gōngyuán): Admire sculptures and art installations in this outdoor park. Baiyun International Convention Center (白云国际会议中心 Báiyún Guójì Huìyì Zhōngxīn): Attend events or explore the architectural marvels of this convention center. 30 More Places to Visit in GuangZhou Shamian Island (沙面岛 Shāmiàn Dǎo): Explore colonial architecture and tranquil surroundings on this historic island. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (陈家祠 Chén Jiā Cí): Admire intricate architecture and traditional art in this ancestral hall. Guangzhou Opera House (广州大剧院 Guǎngzhōu Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances or admire the futuristic design of this opera house. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九步行街 Shàngxiàjiǔ Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies on this bustling street. Guangzhou Museum of Art (广州艺术博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover contemporary Chinese art in this museum. Guangzhou Tower (小蛮腰 Xiǎo Mán Yāo): Visit this landmark tower for panoramic views and a revolving restaurant. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺 Liùróng Sì): Explore Buddhist art and architecture in this historic temple. Guangzhou Museum (广州博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of Guangzhou through exhibits and artifacts. White Cloud Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy scenic views and explore caves. Guangzhou Opera House (广州大剧院 Guǎngzhōu Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances or admire the futuristic design of this opera house. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九步行街 Shàngxiàjiǔ Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies on this bustling street. Guangzhou Museum of Art (广州艺术博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover contemporary Chinese art in this museum. Guangzhou Tower (小蛮腰 Xiǎo Mán Yāo): Visit this landmark tower for panoramic views and a revolving restaurant. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺 Liùróng Sì): Explore Buddhist art and architecture in this historic temple. Guangzhou Museum (广州博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of Guangzhou through exhibits and artifacts. White Cloud Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy scenic views and explore caves. Guangzhou Flower City Square (花城广场 Huāchéng Guǎngchǎng): Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and floral displays in this city square. Guangzhou Chimelong Golf Club (广州长隆高尔夫俱乐部 Guǎngzhōu Chánglóng Gāo'ěrfū Jùlèbù): Play golf and enjoy luxurious amenities at this golf club. Guangzhou Library (广州图书馆 Guǎngzhōu Túshūguǎn): Discover a wide range of books and resources in this modern library. Guangzhou Opera House (广州大剧院 Guǎngzhōu Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances or admire the futuristic design of this opera house. Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九步行街 Shàngxiàjiǔ Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies on this bustling street. Guangzhou Museum of Art (广州艺术博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover contemporary Chinese art in this museum. Guangzhou Tower (小蛮腰 Xiǎo Mán Yāo): Visit this landmark tower for panoramic views and a revolving restaurant. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺 Liùróng Sì): Explore Buddhist art and architecture in this historic temple. Guangzhou Museum (广州博物馆 Guǎngzhōu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of Guangzhou through exhibits and artifacts. White Cloud Mountain (白云山 Báiyún Shān): Hike or take a cable car to enjoy scenic views and explore caves. Guangzhou Flower City Square (花城广场 Huāchéng Guǎngchǎng): Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and floral displays in this city square. Guangzhou Chimelong Golf Club (广州长隆高尔夫俱乐部 Guǎngzhōu Chánglóng Gāo'ěrfū Jùlèbù): Play golf and enjoy luxurious amenities at this golf club.

With Vegan in China ... With GoYvon ... Vegan Food in China Introduction China is a vast country with a rich culinary history, and it offers a variety of delicious vegan options. From traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine to modern plant-based dishes, vegan travelers will find a wide range of flavors and textures to enjoy. This guide explores the vegan food scene in China, highlighting popular dishes, regional specialties, and tips for finding vegan-friendly restaurants. Traditional Vegan Dishes Many traditional Chinese dishes are naturally vegan or can be easily modified to suit a vegan diet. Here are some popular vegan dishes you can find throughout China: Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) Mapo Tofu is a spicy and flavorful dish made with soft tofu, fermented black beans, and a chili sauce. While the traditional version often includes minced meat, you can find vegan versions at many restaurants or request it without meat. Buddha's Delight (罗汉斋) Buddha's Delight is a popular vegetarian dish in Chinese Buddhist cuisine. It consists of a variety of vegetables, tofu, and sometimes mushrooms, all stir-fried in a savory sauce. This dish is often served during Chinese New Year and other festive occasions. Jiaozi (饺子) Jiaozi, or dumplings, can be found with various vegan fillings such as mushrooms, cabbage, and tofu. These delicious dumplings are often steamed or boiled and served with a soy-based dipping sauce. Stir-Fried Vegetables (炒青菜) Stir-fried vegetables are a staple in Chinese cuisine and can be easily found in almost any restaurant. Common vegetables used include bok choy, spinach, broccoli, and snow peas, all stir-fried with garlic and a light soy sauce. Regional Specialties Sichuan Cuisine Sichuan cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors. Many dishes can be made vegan by substituting meat with tofu or vegetables. Look for dishes like Sichuan Hot Pot with vegetable broth and an array of vegetables, or Kung Pao Tofu, a spicy stir-fry with peanuts and vegetables. Cantonese Cuisine Cantonese cuisine features lighter flavors and fresh ingredients. Popular vegan options include Dim Sum with vegetable fillings, stir-fried greens, and Congee, a rice porridge that can be made with mushrooms and other vegetables. Shandong Cuisine Shandong cuisine is known for its hearty and savory dishes. Vegan options include stir-fried tofu, vegetable stews, and steamed buns filled with vegetables. Shandong cuisine also features a variety of soups made with vegetables and grains. Finding Vegan-Friendly Restaurants While many traditional Chinese restaurants offer vegan options, there are also specialized vegetarian and vegan restaurants in major cities. Here are some tips for finding vegan-friendly places to eat: Use Apps: Apps like HappyCow can help you find vegan and vegetarian restaurants in China. These apps often include reviews and recommendations from other travelers. Learn Key Phrases: Knowing a few key phrases in Mandarin can be helpful when ordering food. For example, "wǒ chī sù" (我吃素) means "I eat vegetarian" and "bù yào ròu" (不要肉) means "no meat". Visit Buddhist Temples: Many Buddhist temples have vegetarian restaurants that serve delicious vegan meals. These are often affordable and offer a peaceful dining experience. Ask for Modifications: Don't hesitate to ask for modifications to make a dish vegan. Most restaurants are accommodating and can make adjustments to suit your dietary needs. Vegan Snacks and Street Food China's street food scene is vibrant and offers many vegan-friendly options. Here are some popular vegan snacks and street foods to try: Sesame Balls (麻团) Sesame balls are deep-fried pastries made with glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet red bean paste. They are coated in sesame seeds, giving them a crunchy texture and a sweet flavor. Spring Rolls (春卷) Spring rolls are a popular snack made with thin pastry wrappers filled with vegetables and sometimes tofu. They are usually deep-fried to a crispy golden brown and served with a dipping sauce. Grilled Vegetables (烤蔬菜) Many street vendors offer grilled vegetables, such as corn on the cob, mushrooms, and bell peppers. These are often seasoned with a mix of spices and grilled to perfection. Tofu Skewers (豆腐串) Tofu skewers are a popular street food snack made with marinated tofu chunks grilled on skewers. They are often seasoned with chili and cumin, giving them a spicy and savory flavor. Vegan Grocery Shopping In addition to dining out, you can also find a variety of vegan products in grocery stores and markets in China. Look for fresh fruits and vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and plant-based milk. Many supermarkets also carry imported vegan products such as plant-based meat, dairy-free cheese, and vegan snacks. Travel Tips for Vegans Plan Ahead: Research vegan-friendly restaurants and grocery stores in advance, especially if you're traveling to less touristy areas where options might be limited. Pack Snacks: Carrying snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars can be helpful when you're on the go and need a quick vegan option. Communicate Clearly: Use translation apps or carry a card with dietary preferences written in Mandarin to help communicate your needs to restaurant staff. Be Open-Minded: Trying new foods is part of the travel experience. Be open to exploring local vegan dishes and experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. Stay Informed: Join online vegan communities and forums to get tips and recommendations from other vegan travelers in China.

With Tucker Eats ... Welcome to Shangri-La, China Introduction History of Shangri-La Joseph Rock & His Influence Top Attractions Local Culture Local Cuisine Visitor Tips Introduction Shangri-La, located in the DiQing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, China, is a place of stunning natural beauty, rich Tibetan culture, and spiritual significance. Known for its snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and pristine lakes, Shangri-La has become a popular destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. History of the Name "Shangri-La" The name "Shangri-La" originates from James Hilton's 1933 novel Lost Horizon, where it was depicted as a mystical, utopian valley in the Himalayas. The term has since become synonymous with an earthly paradise, a place of peace and perpetual happiness. In 2001, to promote tourism, the Chinese government officially renamed ZhongDian County in Yunnan Province to Shangri-La, claiming it to be the inspiration for Hilton's fictional paradise. Despite the debate over the true inspiration for Hilton’s novel, the renaming has significantly boosted the region's profile, transforming it into a major tourist destination. The area was already known for its Tibetan cultural heritage, and the new name further solidified its reputation as a place of mystical allure and natural beauty. Joseph Rock & His Influence on Shangri-La Joseph Francis Charles Rock was an Austrian-American explorer, botanist, and anthropologist who lived in China for more than 25 years during the early 20th century. He is particularly known for his extensive travels and research in the remote regions of Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, where he lived among the Naxi people, an ethnic minority with a rich cultural heritage. Rock’s detailed accounts of the Naxi culture, their language, and the stunning landscapes of the region were published in various journals, including National Geographic. These writings brought the hidden beauty of the region to the attention of the world and likely served as an inspiration for James Hilton's depiction of the fictional Shangri-La in his novel Lost Horizon. Rock's base in Lijiang, which is not far from the present-day Shangri-La, became the center of his studies on the Naxi people. He documented their ancient Dongba script, rituals, and way of life, contributing significantly to the preservation of their culture. The influence of his work is evident in the detailed descriptions of a harmonious, isolated valley in Hilton’s novel, which bears striking similarities to the areas where Rock lived and worked. Today, Joseph Rock’s legacy lives on in both the scientific community and the popular imagination, where he is remembered as a key figure who bridged the gap between the mysterious landscapes of southwest China and the Western world. Top Attractions in Shangri-La Songzanlin Monastery Often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace," Songzanlin Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province. Built in the 17th century, it is a stunning complex of golden roofs, ornate halls, and traditional Tibetan architecture. The monastery is an active religious site, home to hundreds of monks, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Pudacuo National Park Pudacuo National Park is one of the first national parks in China to meet international standards. Spanning over 1,300 square kilometers, the park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including alpine lakes, wetlands, forests, and meadows. Key attractions within the park include Shudu Lake, Bita Lake, and the vast, undisturbed wilderness that is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna. Tiger Leaping Gorge Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most spectacular gorges in the world, is located about 60 kilometers from Shangri-La. The gorge is carved by the Jinsha River, a tributary of the Yangtze, and offers thrilling trekking opportunities. The dramatic scenery of steep cliffs, roaring rapids, and snow-capped peaks makes it a must-visit for adventure seekers. Napa Lake Napa Lake is a seasonal lake located about 8 kilometers from Shangri-La. Surrounded by mountains, the lake appears during the rainy season and turns into a lush grassland in the dry season, where you can witness yaks and horses grazing. The area is also a sanctuary for migratory birds, including the rare black-necked crane. Dukezong Ancient Town Dukezong Ancient Town is a well-preserved Tibetan town with a history of over 1,300 years. The town features traditional Tibetan architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and the largest prayer wheel in the world. Dukezong is a great place to explore local culture, enjoy Tibetan cuisine, and shop for traditional crafts. Local Culture Shangri-La is a region deeply rooted in Tibetan culture. The local population predominantly consists of Tibetan people, who practice Tibetan Buddhism and maintain traditional customs and festivals. Major festivals include the Tibetan New Year (Losar), the Horse Racing Festival, and the Gedong Festival, where you can experience colorful religious dances, horse racing, and other cultural events. The region is also known for its vibrant Tibetan art, including Thangka paintings, wood carvings, and intricate metalwork. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with local artisans and learn about the traditional techniques passed down through generations. Local Cuisine The cuisine in Shangri-La is heavily influenced by Tibetan and Yunnanese flavors. Key dishes to try include: Tibetan Yak Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan beverage made from tea, yak butter, and salt. It’s known for its unique taste and high energy content. Tsampa: A staple food made from roasted barley flour, often mixed with yak butter tea to form a dough. Yak Meat: A common ingredient in local dishes, yak meat is often stewed or grilled, and served with vegetables or rice. Momos: Tibetan-style dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, similar to the Chinese jiaozi. Wild Mushroom Hot Pot: A Yunnan specialty featuring a variety of locally-sourced wild mushrooms cooked in a flavorful broth. Visitors should also explore local markets for fresh produce, Tibetan bread, and artisanal cheeses made from yak milk. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Shangri-La is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush and green. During this period, the region is also alive with festivals and cultural events. Altitude: Shangri-La is located at an altitude of about 3,200 meters (10,500 feet). Visitors should be aware of the potential for altitude sickness and take it easy during the first few days of their visit. Getting There: Shangri-La can be reached by air via DiQing Shangri-La Airport, which has flights from major cities like Kunming, Chengdu, and Lhasa. There are also bus connections to Lijiang and Dali. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, many locals speak Tibetan. Having a translation app or a basic knowledge of Mandarin phrases can be helpful. Respect Local Customs: When visiting monasteries and other religious sites, dress modestly, remove your hat, and ask for permission before taking photographs. It’s also customary to walk clockwise around religious sites.