Spring in BeiJing : Purple bamboo park to the Summer Palace

Tropical Hainan Island to Harbin in China's north east The Harbin Snow and Ice Festival (every January) Beijing - the Forbidden City ZhangJiaJie HuangShan Snowboarding at NanShan, Beijing 'My Shangri-la - a trip through Yunnan province 'One can never forget LiJiang' - Yunnan province 'Beautiful snow county is my home' - HeiLongJiang province

Filmed in May 2011.

Introduction China's traditional arts and crafts reflect its rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic backgrounds. These art forms have been passed down through generations, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and profound cultural significance. Here are the top 50 traditional Chinese arts and crafts, along with their origins and associated ethnicities. 1. Chinese Calligraphy (书法, Shūfǎ) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese calligraphy is the art of writing Chinese characters with a brush and ink. It is highly regarded for its aesthetic qualities and expressive potential. 2. Chinese Painting (国画, Guóhuà) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Traditional Chinese painting involves brushwork on paper or silk, depicting landscapes, flowers, birds, and human figures. 3. Cloisonné (景泰蓝, Jǐngtàilán) Origin: Yuan Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metalwork objects with enamel, featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors. 4. Chinese Embroidery (刺绣, Cìxiù) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han, Miao, Yi, Zhuang Chinese embroidery is a decorative art that involves stitching intricate patterns onto fabrics using silk or cotton threads. 5. Paper Cutting (剪纸, Jiǎnzhǐ) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Paper cutting is a folk art where designs are cut into paper, traditionally used for window decorations and festival celebrations. 6. Porcelain (瓷器, Cíqì) Origin: Shang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese porcelain, known for its delicate beauty and durability, has been highly prized for centuries and is often decorated with intricate designs. 7. Jade Carving (玉雕, Yùdiāo) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Jade carving is the art of shaping jade into ornaments, figurines, and ritual objects, revered for its beauty and spiritual significance. 8. Chinese Opera Masks (戏曲面具, Xìqǔ Miànjù) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Opera masks are used in traditional Chinese theater to represent various characters and their traits through colors and patterns. 9. Silk Weaving (丝织, Sīzhī) Origin: Shang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Silk weaving is an ancient craft involving the production of silk fabric, known for its smooth texture and luxurious appearance. 10. Chinese Knotting (中国结, Zhōngguó Jié) Origin: Tang and Song Dynasties Ethnicity: Han Chinese knotting is the art of creating decorative knots using a single length of cord, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. 11. Bronze Casting (青铜铸造, Qīngtóng Zhùzào) Origin: Shang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Bronze casting is an ancient method of creating bronze objects, including vessels, weapons, and ritual items, through mold casting. 12. Batik (蜡染, Làrǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao, Buyi Batik is a traditional textile art involving wax-resist dyeing, creating intricate patterns on fabric, commonly practiced by the Miao and Buyi people. 13. Lacquerware (漆器, Qīqì) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Lacquerware involves coating objects with lacquer to create a hard, shiny surface, often decorated with intricate designs and inlays. 14. Bamboo Weaving (竹编, Zhúbiān) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Bamboo weaving is the craft of creating items like baskets, mats, and furniture using bamboo strips, valued for its durability and flexibility. 15. Chinese Puppetry (木偶戏, Mù'ǒuxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese puppetry involves using hand-crafted puppets to perform traditional stories and plays, combining art, music, and storytelling. 16. Thangka Painting (唐卡, Tángkǎ) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Thangka painting is a Tibetan Buddhist art form that involves creating religious images on cloth, used for meditation and teaching. 17. Pottery (陶器, Táoqì) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Pottery is one of the earliest forms of Chinese art, with hand-crafted ceramic vessels used for cooking, storage, and rituals. 18. Chinese Shadow Puppetry (皮影戏, Píyǐngxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Shadow puppetry involves manipulating flat puppets behind a screen to create shadows, telling stories with music and narration. 19. Rattan Weaving (藤编, Téngbiān) Origin: Ancient Times Ethnicity: Dai, Li Rattan weaving is the craft of making furniture, baskets, and other items using rattan, commonly practiced by the Dai and Li ethnic groups. 20. Dough Figurines (面人, Miànrén) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Dough figurines are traditional folk art made from colored dough, sculpted into various characters, animals, and scenes. 21. Silver Jewelry Making (银饰, Yínshì) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao, Yi Silver jewelry making involves crafting intricate silver ornaments, often worn during festivals and ceremonies by the Miao and Yi people. 22. Chinese Seal Carving (篆刻, Zhuànkè) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Seal carving is the art of engraving characters or designs onto stone or wood seals, used for stamping documents and artwork. 23. Tangka Embroidery (唐卡刺绣, Tángkǎ Cìxiù) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tangka embroidery combines traditional embroidery techniques with religious themes, creating elaborate and colorful textile art. 24. Peking Opera Costumes (京剧服装, Jīngjù Fúzhuāng) Origin: Qing Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Peking Opera costumes are elaborate and symbolic garments worn by performers, representing different characters and social statuses. 25. Wooden Fish Carving (木鱼雕刻, Mùyú Diāokè) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Wooden fish carving is a traditional craft involving the creation of wooden fish sculptures, often used in Buddhist temples as percussion instruments. 26. Tie-Dye (扎染, Zhārǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Bai Tie-dye is a textile art practiced by the Bai people, involving the tying and dyeing of fabric to create intricate patterns and designs. 27. Paper Fans (纸扇, Zhǐshàn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Paper fans are traditional hand-held fans made from paper and bamboo, often decorated with calligraphy and paintings. 28. Dragon and Lion Dance (舞龙舞狮, Wǔlóng Wǔshī) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han The dragon and lion dance are traditional Chinese performances involving large, colorful costumes, performed during festivals to bring good luck. 29. Ethnic Costumes (民族服饰, Mínzú Fúshì) Origin: Varies Ethnicity: Various (e.g., Yi, Zhuang, Miao) Ethnic costumes are traditional garments worn by various ethnic groups in China, each with distinct styles, colors, and patterns reflecting their culture. 30. Kesi Weaving (缂丝, Kēsī) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Kesi weaving is a highly intricate form of silk tapestry weaving, creating detailed and colorful patterns often used for clothing and artwork. 31. Woodblock Printing (木版画, Mùbǎn Huà) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Woodblock printing is a technique for printing text, images, and patterns, involving carving designs into wooden blocks and pressing them onto paper or fabric. 32. Shadow Play (皮影戏, Píyǐngxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Shadow play is a traditional form of storytelling using silhouetted figures manipulated behind a translucent screen, accompanied by music and narration. 33. Chinese Garden Design (中国园林, Zhōngguó Yuánlín) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese garden design is the art of creating harmonious landscapes that combine natural elements like rocks, water, and plants with architecture and art. 34. Miao Silver Jewelry (苗银, Miáo Yín) Origin: Qing Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao Miao silver jewelry is known for its intricate designs and craftsmanship, often worn during festivals and ceremonies by the Miao people. 35. Chinese Paper Umbrellas (油纸伞, Yóuzhǐ Sǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Paper umbrellas are traditional umbrellas made from oiled paper and bamboo, used for protection against rain and sun, and as decorative items. 36. Tibetan Thangka Painting (唐卡, Tángkǎ) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan Thangka painting involves creating religious images on cloth, used for meditation and teaching in Tibetan Buddhism. 37. Chinese Shadow Puppetry (皮影戏, Píyǐngxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Shadow puppetry is a traditional form of storytelling using silhouetted figures manipulated behind a translucent screen, accompanied by music and narration. 38. Hunan Embroidery (湘绣, Xiāngxiù) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Hunan embroidery is a traditional Chinese embroidery style known for its fine craftsmanship and lifelike images, often depicting nature and animals. 39. Guizhou Batik (贵州蜡染, Guìzhōu Làrǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao, Buyi Guizhou batik is a traditional textile art involving wax-resist dyeing, creating intricate patterns on fabric, commonly practiced by the Miao and Buyi people. 40. Tibetan Rugs (藏毯, Zàngtǎn) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan rugs are hand-woven woolen rugs known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, used for both practical and decorative purposes. 41. Hanfu Clothing (汉服, Hànfú) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Hanfu is traditional Chinese clothing worn by the Han people, characterized by flowing robes, wide sleeves, and intricate embroidery. 42. Tibetan Singing Bowls (西藏唱盘, Xīzàng Chàngpán) Origin: 8th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan singing bowls are metal bowls that produce a resonant sound when struck or rubbed, used in meditation and healing practices. 43. Manchu Embroidery (满绣, Mǎnxiù) Origin: Qing Dynasty Ethnicity: Manchu Manchu embroidery is a traditional embroidery style known for its intricate designs and vibrant colors, often depicting nature and animals. 44. Suzhou Embroidery (苏绣, Sūxiù) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Suzhou embroidery is a highly detailed and refined embroidery style known for its realistic images and delicate stitching, often depicting landscapes and flowers. 45. Traditional Chinese Musical Instruments (传统乐器, Chuántǒng Yuèqì) Origin: Various Ethnicity: Various Traditional Chinese musical instruments include the guzheng, erhu, pipa, and dizi, each with its own unique sound and playing technique, used in various forms of Chinese music. 46. Tibetan Butter Sculpture (酥油花, Sūyóu Huā) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan butter sculpture is a traditional art form involving the creation of intricate sculptures from colored butter, often used in religious ceremonies. 47. Yi Embroidery (彝绣, Yíxiù) Origin: Ancient Times Ethnicity: Yi Yi embroidery is a traditional embroidery style known for its bold colors and geometric patterns, often depicting nature and cultural symbols. 48. Dong Brocade (侗锦, Dòngjǐn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Dong Dong brocade is a traditional textile art practiced by the Dong people, known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often used for clothing and household items. 49. Zhuang Brocade (壮锦, Zhuàngjǐn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Zhuang Zhuang brocade is a traditional textile art practiced by the Zhuang people, known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often used for clothing and household items. 50. Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony (茶道, Chá Dào) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han The traditional Chinese tea ceremony is a cultural activity involving the ceremonial preparation and presentation of tea, reflecting Chinese values of harmony, respect, and tranquility. Conclusion These traditional Chinese arts and crafts offer a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage, showcasing the creativity and skill of various ethnic groups. They continue to be celebrated and preserved, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of China.

With Travel with Fawn ... Welcome to Mount Siguniang Discover the majestic beauty and adventure of Mount Siguniang. Introduction Mount Siguniang, also known as Four Sisters Mountain, is a scenic mountain range located in Sichuan Province, China. It is renowned for its stunning peaks, diverse wildlife, and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Location Mount Siguniang is situated in Xiaojin County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is approximately 220 kilometers west of Chengdu, the provincial capital. History Mount Siguniang has long been regarded as a sacred place by the local Tibetan and Qiang ethnic groups. The name "Siguniang" translates to "Four Sisters," referring to the four distinct peaks in the mountain range. Over the years, the area has become a significant site for both cultural heritage and ecological conservation. Attractions Four Peaks: The mountain range features four prominent peaks: DaFeng (Big Peak), ErFeng (Second Peak), SanFeng (Third Peak), and Yaomei Feng (Youngest Sister Peak), the highest being Yaomei Feng at 6,250 meters. Shuangqiao Valley: Known for its beautiful forests, meadows, and streams, offering an accessible and scenic hiking experience. Changping Valley: Famous for its dense forests, alpine meadows, and views of snow-capped peaks, ideal for trekking and photography. Haizi Valley: Features glacial lakes, diverse flora, and stunning vistas, perfect for longer and more challenging hikes. Bipenggou Nature Reserve: A neighboring reserve known for its pristine landscapes and biodiversity. Activities Hiking and Trekking Mountain Climbing Camping Photography Wildlife Watching Cultural Tours Facilities Visitor Center Restrooms Accommodations (Hotels, Guesthouses) Camping Sites Food Stalls and Restaurants Parking Lots Guided Tour Services Visitor Tips Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking and mountain conditions. Bring sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer treks. Check weather conditions and plan your visit accordingly. Acclimatize to the altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness. Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting Tibetan cultural sites. Follow all park regulations and guidelines to preserve the natural environment.

Great video ! Song by Pharrell Williams ... Bonus film : hop in for a drive around ShenZhen ...

Near DaTong, ShanXi province. The Hanging Temple (XuanKong Temple 悬空寺, XuánKōng Sì) is constructed on a vertical cliff face, 75 meters (245 feet) above the ground, at the foot of the HengShan mountain. The temple lies about 64 kilometers south east of the city of DaTong. Together with the YunGang Grottoes, the Hanging Temple is one of the main tourist attractions and historical sites in the DaTong area. Built more than 1,600 years ago, this temple is notable also as the only surviving temple combining all three Chinese traditional religions/philosophies: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The structure is kept in place with oak crossbeams slotted into holes chiseled into the cliffs. The main supportive structure is hidden inside the rock. The temple is located in a small canyon basin, and is situated under a prominent summit that helps protect the temple from rain and sunlight. The YunGang Grottoes are located at the southern foot of Mount WuZhou, 16 kilometers west of DaTong. There are 250 caves here containing many thousands of carvings and statues.

Dr Rangan Chatterjee talks with professor David Sinclair ...

With doctors Mark Hyman and Rangan Chatterjee. Of all the four pillars of health - diet, exercise, sleep and relaxation - the last is often the hardest to improve. Mindfulness, mindset, and the importance of 'downtime' and 'digital detox' ... And always take time to appreciate what you have, above worrying about what you don't have. Bonus film - the BIG epidemic that is ignored; chronic disease and the 'healthcare' system - don't miss it ...