Rebirth of BeiJing’s Old Summer Palace (YuanMingYuan), ZhuHai, GuangZhou 圆明新园 | 珠海

With Beijing Old Liu ... Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village Visitor Guide Overview Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, located in Leishan County, Guizhou Province, is the largest Miao village in China and is often referred to as the "Thousand Household Miao Village." This picturesque village is known for its well-preserved traditional Miao architecture, vibrant cultural heritage, and stunning natural scenery. It offers a unique glimpse into the life and traditions of the Miao people. History and Culture The Miao people are one of China's 56 ethnic minorities, with a history that dates back over 2,000 years. Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is a living museum of Miao culture, where visitors can experience traditional Miao customs, clothing, music, and dance. The village is known for its grand festivals, including the Lusheng Festival, the Miao New Year, and the Sisters' Meal Festival, which feature elaborate costumes, folk dances, and traditional music performances. Main Attractions Miao Ethnic Museum The Miao Ethnic Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history, culture, and traditions of the Miao people. Exhibits include traditional clothing, silver ornaments, musical instruments, and artifacts from daily life. Traditional Miao Architecture The village is renowned for its traditional stilt houses, known as "Diaojiaolou," which are built on wooden stilts and feature intricate wooden carvings. Walking through the village, visitors can admire these unique structures and learn about their construction and significance. Folk Performances Daily folk performances in the village square showcase traditional Miao music and dance. These performances are an excellent way to experience the vibrant cultural heritage of the Miao people. Festival Celebrations Visiting during one of the major festivals, such as the Miao New Year or the Sisters' Meal Festival, provides a deeper insight into Miao culture. These festivals feature colorful parades, traditional music, and elaborate dances, making them a highlight of any visit. Outdoor Activities Hiking and Nature Walks The surrounding hills and rice terraces offer excellent opportunities for hiking and nature walks. The scenic trails provide panoramic views of the village and the lush countryside, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Exploring Rice Terraces The rice terraces around Xijiang are a testament to the agricultural ingenuity of the Miao people. Visitors can explore these terraced fields, which change colors with the seasons and offer stunning photographic opportunities. Local Cuisine Miao cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of local ingredients. Some must-try dishes include sour fish soup, sticky rice cakes, and various pickled vegetables. Many local restaurants and street vendors offer authentic Miao food, providing a true taste of the region. Accommodation Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional Miao-style guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to enjoy Miao hospitality and learn more about their way of life. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the rice terraces are most picturesque. Getting There: The village is accessible by bus from Kaili City, which is connected to major cities like Guiyang by train and bus. Respect Local Customs: When visiting, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially during festivals and ceremonies. Pack Accordingly: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the village and surrounding areas. A light jacket is recommended for the evenings, as temperatures can drop.

XiShuangBanNa located in the south of YunNan province, south China, is a charming international eco-tourism resort on the reaches of the Mekong river (known as the LanCang river in China), bordering with Laos and Myanmar, and adjacent to Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. Esteemed for its captivating tropical landscapes and exotic cultures of the 13 native minorities, this land is home to China's largest tropical rainforest and abundant biological resources, and the Dai Water Splashing Festival (which lasts for three days from April 13 to 15). The Six Famous Tea Mountains region, 六大茶山 (Liù Dà Chá Shān) produce some of the most highly regarded Pu-Er tea. There are daily flights from KunMing, DaLi and ChengDu.

With This Is SiChuan ... Mount Emei Visitor Guide: Natural Beauty & Practical Travel Tips Mount Emei (Emei Shan), located in Sichuan Province, is one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its mist-shrouded peaks, ancient temples, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, it is a popular pilgrimage site and a destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. This guide will help you explore Mount Emei’s natural beauty while providing practical travel advice for a seamless visit. Golden Summit (Jinding) Overview: The Golden Summit is the highest point on Mount Emei, offering spectacular views, including the famous "Sea of Clouds." At an elevation of 3,077 meters, the summit is a spiritual hub for Buddhists, with the massive statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva serving as a highlight for visitors. Key Highlights: Golden Buddha Statue: The 48-meter tall statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva with ten faces is a stunning work of art, representing the mount's spiritual significance. Sea of Clouds: On clear mornings, you can witness the mesmerizing "Sea of Clouds" phenomenon, where the clouds form a dense layer beneath the summit. Sunrise & Sunset: Watching the sunrise or sunset from the Golden Summit is a breathtaking experience, as the sky turns vibrant shades of orange and pink. Travel Tip: Be prepared for the altitude by wearing warm clothing, especially in the early morning or evening. It’s recommended to take the cable car from Leidongping to save energy, but hikers can also make the journey on foot. Baoguo Temple Area Overview: Baoguo Temple is the starting point for most visitors to Mount Emei. Located at the base of the mountain, this area is home to one of the most important temples and serves as a hub for those preparing to explore the mountain. Key Highlights: Baoguo Temple: Built during the Ming Dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the worship of various Buddhist deities. It is an excellent place to start learning about the religious history of Mount Emei. Emei Buddhist Cultural Museum: Located within the temple grounds, this museum provides insight into the history of Buddhism in the region, along with relics and artwork. Travel Tip: Baoguo Temple is a peaceful place to begin your ascent. The surrounding area has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets, making it a convenient base for longer stays. Wannian Temple (Ten-Thousand-Year Temple) Overview: One of the oldest and most significant temples on Mount Emei, Wannian Temple dates back over 1,600 years. The temple is perched on the mountainside and offers great views as well as a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection. Key Highlights: Bronze Statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva: The temple houses a famous bronze statue of Samantabhadra riding an elephant, which is a major draw for pilgrims. Surrounding Trails: The area around Wannian Temple is filled with scenic trails that offer opportunities to explore the mountain’s flora and fauna. Travel Tip: Visitors can either hike to Wannian Temple or take the cable car from Wuxiangang Parking Lot. The trails offer stunning views but can be steep, so bring appropriate footwear. Qingyin Pavilion Overview: Qingyin Pavilion is a tranquil spot located halfway up Mount Emei, offering a place for rest and meditation. Surrounded by lush forests, clear streams, and waterfalls, it is an ideal location to experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of the mountain. Key Highlights: Scenic Bridges: The twin bridges crossing the crystal-clear waters are perfect for photos, and the sound of the running stream adds to the pavilion’s peaceful ambiance. Washing Elephant Pool: Located nearby, this sacred pool is associated with Buddhist mythology and is a quiet spot for reflection. Travel Tip: This is an ideal resting spot for those hiking up the mountain. There are small tea houses nearby where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds. Monkeys of Mount Emei Overview: The Tibetan macaques are a famous and sometimes mischievous presence on Mount Emei. These monkeys roam freely across the mountain and are often found near tourist areas. While they can be entertaining to watch, visitors should take care as the monkeys may attempt to snatch food or belongings. Key Highlights: Monkey Eco-Zone: Located along the main hiking trail, this area is where the monkeys are most active. Visitors can observe them up close but should avoid direct interaction. Travel Tip: Keep your belongings secure and do not feed the monkeys, as they can become aggressive. Stick to designated paths and follow the advice of local guides or staff to stay safe. Practical Travel Information for Mount Emei When to Visit The best time to visit Mount Emei is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the views are clear. Spring (April-May) offers blooming flowers, while autumn (September-October) provides colorful foliage. Winter visits are also possible, especially for those interested in snow-covered landscapes, but be prepared for cold conditions at higher altitudes. Getting to Mount Emei By Air: The closest airport is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, located about 150 kilometers away. From Chengdu, visitors can take a train or bus to Emeishan City. By Train: The high-speed train from Chengdu to Emeishan Station takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to the Baoguo Temple area, the starting point for exploring Mount Emei. By Bus: Regular buses run from Chengdu’s Xinnanmen Bus Station to Emeishan City, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Accommodation Visitors can stay in Emeishan City or in the Baoguo Temple area, which has a variety of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. For those wishing to stay on the mountain itself, there are guesthouses and monasteries offering simple lodging for a more immersive experience. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Cultural Sensitivity As Mount Emei is a sacred Buddhist site, visitors should show respect when visiting temples and monasteries. Modest clothing is recommended, and it’s important to be mindful of local customs, especially when interacting with monks or pilgrims. Refrain from taking photos in sacred spaces unless permission is explicitly granted. Food and Dining Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold, spicy flavors. In Emeishan, you can find local dishes such as hotpot, mapo tofu, and various noodle dishes. For a unique experience, try the vegetarian meals offered at the mountain's temples, which are simple yet flavorful and often include locally sourced ingredients. Important Note: Always carry your passport and tickets when visiting the mountain, especially for entrance to the different scenic areas and cable cars. Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Mount Emei Day 1: Arrive in Emeishan City, visit Baoguo Temple, and relax in the hot springs nearby. Day 2: Hike or take the cable car to the Golden Summit for sunrise. Explore the summit area before descending to Wannian Temple. Day 3: Spend the day exploring Qingyin Pavilion and the Monkey Eco-Zone. Enjoy a tea break at a mountain tea house before returning to Emeishan City.

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