ShangHai mega mall – Sinar Mas Plaza in the Spring Festival

上海北外滩白玉兰广场春节漫步之行-迎春锣鼓秀

With Wei's Travel ...

[640],shadow=true,start=,stop=Chinese New Year (CNY), also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China, marking the beginning of the lunar new year. It is celebrated by Chinese communities around the world, as well as in other East Asian countries such as Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia. Here's an overview of Chinese New Year and its traditions:

Timing and Duration:
Lunar Calendar: Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar, with the date falling between late January and mid-February each year. The exact date varies because it is based on the lunar phases.

Festival Period: The celebrations typically last for 15 days, beginning on the eve of Chinese New Year and ending with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the lunar calendar.

Traditions and Customs:
Family Reunions: Chinese New Year is a time for families to come together and celebrate. Many people travel long distances to reunite with their relatives, leading to the largest annual human migration in the world, known as Chunyun.

Cleaning and Decoration: In the days leading up to Chinese New Year, families clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune. They also decorate their homes with red lanterns, couplets (duilian), and paper cutouts featuring auspicious symbols.

Chinese New Year's Eve Dinner: The New Year's Eve dinner, known as 'reunion dinner' (??? tu�nni�nf�n), is a lavish feast shared with family members. Traditional dishes include fish (symbolizing prosperity), dumplings (symbolizing wealth), and various other symbolic foods.

Red Envelopes (Hongbao): Red envelopes containing money are given as gifts during Chinese New Year, especially to children and unmarried individuals. The red color symbolizes good luck and wards off evil spirits.

Fireworks and Firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are set off at midnight on New Year's Eve and throughout the festival period to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.

Lion and Dragon Dances: Colorful lion and dragon dances are performed in streets, parks, and public squares to bring prosperity and good fortune to communities.

Zodiac Animals:
Each Year is Associated with an Animal: Chinese New Year is symbolized by one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac cycle. Each animal is believed to influence the personality traits and destiny of individuals born in that year.

Travel and Celebrations:
Spring Festival Gala: The Spring Festival Gala, broadcasted on Chinese television on New Year's Eve, features a variety of performances, skits, and musical acts. It is one of the most-watched television programs in the world.

Temple Fairs: Traditional temple fairs are held throughout China during Chinese New Year, offering food stalls, performances, games, and cultural activities for visitors to enjoy.

Chinese New Year is a time of joy, reunion, and renewal, filled with rich traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. It is a celebration of family, community, and the arrival of spring, marking a fresh beginning and the promise of prosperity in the year ahead.

Shanghai is one of China's most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities, blending a rich history with modern skyscrapers and vibrant culture. Here's what you need to know as a tourist visiting Shanghai:

Historical and Cultural Landmarks:
The Bund: This iconic waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River features colonial-era buildings on one side and futuristic skyscrapers on the other, offering stunning views of Shanghai's skyline.

Yu Garden: Dating back to the Ming dynasty, Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries. The nearby Yu Garden Bazaar is a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional crafts.

Shanghai Museum: Home to an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts, including bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy, the Shanghai Museum is a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

Jing'an Temple: One of Shanghai's most famous Buddhist temples, Jing'an Temple is known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and towering golden Buddha statue.

Modern Attractions:
Shanghai Tower: Ascend to the observation deck of this iconic skyscraper, the tallest in China and the second-tallest in the world, for panoramic views of the city.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower: Another iconic landmark, this futuristic tower offers observation decks, a glass-bottomed skywalk, and a revolving restaurant.

Shanghai Disneyland: Located in the Pudong district, Shanghai Disneyland offers a magical experience for visitors of all ages with its themed lands, attractions, and entertainment.

Shopping and Entertainment:
Nanjing Road: One of the world's busiest shopping streets, Nanjing Road is lined with department stores, boutiques, and restaurants. Don't miss the nearby pedestrian-friendly Nanjing Road East, known for its lively atmosphere and street performers.

Xintiandi: This upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment district features a mix of traditional Shikumen-style buildings and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

French Concession: Explore this historic neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, charming cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.

Culinary Delights:
Shanghai Cuisine: Sample local specialties such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings), and Shanghai-style noodles.

Street Food: Wander through the city's bustling food markets and snack streets to taste a variety of street foods, from savory pancakes to grilled skewers.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Shanghai has an efficient public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. Consider purchasing a rechargeable transportation card for convenience.

Language: While Mandarin is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Weather: Shanghai experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and chilly winters. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, such as using polite language and avoiding loud behavior in public places.

Shanghai offers a captivating blend of old and new, with its historic landmarks, modern skyscrapers, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, shopping, or dining, Shanghai has something to offer every type of visitor.

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With Ian Louis ... With Seiu Travel ... Visitor Guide to TaiHe River, TianJin Overview The TaiHe River, located in TianJin, is a picturesque waterway that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known for its serene landscapes and historical significance, the TaiHe River is a must-visit destination for those exploring TianJin. Getting There By Air: TianJin Binhai International Airport (TSN) is the nearest airport, located about 20 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or public bus to reach the TaiHe River area. By Train: TianJin Railway Station and TianJin West Railway Station offer convenient access to the city from major destinations across China. From the stations, you can take local transport to reach the river. By Bus: Long-distance buses from nearby cities and provinces also provide access to TianJin. The main bus stations in TianJin are TianJin Coach Terminal and TianJin West Coach Station. Getting Around Public Transport: TianJin has an extensive public transport network, including buses and a metro system, making it easy to navigate the city and reach the TaiHe River. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi are also widely used. Biking: Bike-sharing services provide a convenient way to explore the riverbanks and surrounding areas. Main Attractions Scenic Walkways The TaiHe River features well-maintained walkways along its banks, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding greenery. It's an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or simply relaxing by the river. Historical Bridges The river is spanned by several historical bridges, each with its own unique architecture and history. These bridges provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the engineering marvels of the past. Riverside Parks Several parks are located along the TaiHe River, including TaiHe Park and Haihe Cultural Square. These parks offer lush green spaces, recreational facilities, and picturesque spots for picnics and relaxation. Boat Rides Boat rides on the TaiHe River provide a unique perspective of the city and its landmarks. You can choose from various types of boats, including traditional wooden boats and modern yachts, to explore the river. Night View The TaiHe River is especially beautiful at night, when the bridges and buildings along the river are illuminated. A night cruise offers a magical experience, with the city's lights reflecting on the water. Local Cuisine While visiting the TaiHe River, you can enjoy a variety of local and regional dishes. Here are some recommendations: Goubuli Baozi: TianJin's famous steamed buns, known for their delicate flavor and intricate folds. Erduoyan Zhagao: A traditional TianJin snack made of glutinous rice and red bean paste, fried to perfection. Jianbing: A popular Chinese street food, similar to a savory crepe, filled with egg, scallions, cilantro, and crispy wonton strips. Shopping Ancient Culture Street: A vibrant pedestrian street offering traditional Chinese handicrafts, antiques, and souvenirs. BinJiang Dao Commercial Street: A modern shopping area with a wide range of international and local brands, perfect for a shopping spree. HePing Lu Shopping District: Known for its department stores and specialty shops, this district is a shopper's paradise. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: TianJin has several high-end hotels offering excellent amenities and services, such as the Ritz-Carlton TianJin and the St. Regis TianJin. Mid-Range Hotels: There are numerous mid-range options providing comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, including international chains like Marriott and local boutique hotels. Budget Accommodations: Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels throughout the city. Historical Background of TaiHe River The TaiHe River, also known as the "Peace River," has played a significant role in the history and development of TianJin. The river has been a vital waterway for trade, transportation, and cultural exchange for centuries. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the TaiHe River was an essential part of the Grand Canal, facilitating the movement of goods and people between northern and southern China. The river's strategic location contributed to TianJin's growth as a major commercial and trading hub. In modern times, the TaiHe River has become a focal point for urban development and tourism. Efforts to beautify and preserve the river have made it a popular destination for both locals and visitors, blending the city's rich history with its vibrant present. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit the TaiHe River 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. Bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan to spend time outdoors. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting cultural and historical sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: The TaiHe River offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Plan your visit to include both leisurely activities and sightseeing to fully appreciate the area's offerings. Conclusion The TaiHe River in TianJin, with its scenic walkways, historical bridges, and vibrant parks, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, enjoying a boat ride, or exploring the city's rich history, the TaiHe River provides a serene and memorable escape. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time in this picturesque and historically significant area of TianJin.