SuZhou 苏州 night walk

HuangShan (Yellow Mountain) lies in AnHui province.Highly worn granite summits peak out from a sea of clouds, dotted with ancient pines, have been an inspiration to artists and philosophers for many centuries ...

Sticker Travel visit 798 at DaShanZi on the outskirts of north east Beijing ...

With Jerry's Take on China ...

With Little Chinese Everywhere ... Bonus film - Uyghur life in Turpan desert oasis ... Welcome to Turpan, Oasis of the Gobi Desert Introduction Top Attractions Activities Local Culture Local Cuisine Visitor Tips Getting There Introduction Turpan, also known as Turfan, is a city oasis located in the Gobi Desert of XinJiang, in the Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture. This ancient city is one of the hottest and driest places in China, yet it is renowned for its lush vineyards, ancient ruins, and unique cultural heritage. Turpan is an important stop on the ancient Silk Road and has a rich history that spans thousands of years, with influences from various cultures, including Uyghur, Han Chinese, and Central Asian. Despite its harsh desert climate, Turpan is famous for its agricultural produce, particularly grapes, thanks to its innovative karez irrigation system. The city is a fascinating blend of ancient history and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring XinJiang. Top Attractions Jiaohe Ancient City Jiaohe Ancient City, also known as Yarghul, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Dating back over 2,000 years, Jiaohe was once a bustling city on the Silk Road. The city is situated on a plateau surrounded by deep valleys, making it a natural fortress. Visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient city, including its well-preserved streets, houses, temples, and administrative buildings. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a Silk Road city. Flaming Mountains The Flaming Mountains are one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Turpan. These red sandstone mountains are named for the intense heat they radiate, especially during the summer months, when the surface temperatures can soar above 70°C (158°F). The mountains appear to be ablaze, particularly at sunset, when they glow in various shades of red and orange. The Flaming Mountains are steeped in legend and have been immortalized in the classic Chinese novel "Journey to the West." Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves The Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves are a series of cave temples carved into the cliffs of the Mutou Valley. These caves date back to the 5th to 14th centuries and contain exquisite murals that depict scenes from Buddhist scriptures and the daily life of the time. The caves are a testament to the spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road and offer insight into the cultural and religious exchanges that took place in this region. Grape Valley Grape Valley is a lush oasis in the heart of the desert, famous for its vineyards and production of sweet Turpan grapes. The valley is a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert and offers a peaceful retreat with its shady vineyards, running streams, and traditional Uyghur houses. Visitors can stroll through the vineyards, taste fresh grapes and raisins, and learn about the traditional methods of grape cultivation and drying. Karez Irrigation System The Karez Irrigation System is an ancient engineering marvel that has been vital to the survival of Turpan's agriculture in the arid desert environment. This underground network of channels, wells, and tunnels brings water from the distant Tianshan Mountains to the city, allowing the cultivation of crops in the desert. Visitors can explore the Karez Museum to learn about the history and operation of this ingenious system and see how it has sustained life in Turpan for centuries. Activities Exploring Ancient Ruins: Discover the rich history of Turpan by exploring ancient sites such as Jiaohe Ancient City and the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. These sites offer a fascinating insight into the city's past and the cultures that have influenced it. Vineyard Tours: Take a guided tour of the vineyards in Grape Valley, where you can learn about grape cultivation, taste fresh produce, and enjoy the serene beauty of this desert oasis. Hiking in the Flaming Mountains: For those who enjoy the outdoors, hiking in the Flaming Mountains offers an opportunity to experience the dramatic landscape up close. Early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended to avoid the intense heat. Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional Uyghur villages, attending local festivals, or enjoying performances of Uyghur music and dance. Museum Visits: Visit local museums such as the Turpan Museum and the Karez Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history, culture, and technological achievements. Local Culture Turpan is a melting pot of cultures, with significant influences from Uyghur, Han Chinese, and Central Asian traditions. The Uyghur people, who are the dominant ethnic group in the region, have a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in their language, music, dance, and cuisine. Uyghur music and dance are vibrant and expressive, often featuring lively rhythms, stringed instruments like the dutar, and intricate dance movements. Traditional Uyghur dances are a highlight of local festivals and celebrations, where people gather to perform and enjoy these cultural expressions. The local architecture is also distinctive, with traditional Uyghur houses often featuring courtyards, intricate wooden carvings, and grape trellises providing shade in the hot desert climate. Visitors to Turpan can explore these traditional homes and learn about the customs and daily life of the Uyghur people. Local Cuisine Turpan is renowned for its delicious Uyghur cuisine, which features a variety of flavorful dishes that reflect the region's agricultural abundance and cultural diversity. Some must-try dishes include: Polo (Uyghur Pilaf): A traditional Uyghur dish made with rice, lamb, carrots, and spices, often served with raisins or other dried fruits. Polo is a staple of Uyghur cuisine and is enjoyed on special occasions and everyday meals alike. Kebabs: Grilled lamb skewers seasoned with a blend of spices and often served with flatbread. Kebabs are a popular street food in Turpan and are a must-try for meat lovers. Nan: Uyghur flatbread, known as nan, is a common accompaniment to many meals. It is often baked in a traditional tandoor oven and can be served plain or topped with sesame seeds. Grape Dishes: Given Turpan's fame for its grapes, you'll find many dishes that incorporate this fruit, including grape juice, grape syrup, and dishes featuring dried grapes (raisins). Lagman: A hand-pulled noodle dish typically served with a stir-fry of meat and vegetables. Lagman is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the culinary skills of the Uyghur people. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Turpan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Hydration: Given the extreme heat and arid climate, it's essential to stay hydrated while exploring Turpan. Always carry plenty of water with you and take breaks in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion. Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect against the strong sun. In the cooler months, bring layers as temperatures can drop significantly at night. Respect Local Customs: Turpan has a diverse cultural heritage, so it's important to be respectful of local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites or interacting with the Uyghur community. Safety: Stay on designated paths when exploring ancient sites and natural attractions. The terrain can be rugged, and temperatures can be extreme, so caution is advised. Getting There Turpan is located in the eastern part of XinJiang, and there are several options for getting there: By Air: The nearest airport is Turpan Jiaohe Airport, which has flights to and from major cities such as Urumqi, Beijing, and Shanghai. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the city center. By Train: Turpan is well-connected by rail, with the Turpan North Railway Station serving as a major stop on the Lanzhou-XinJiang High-Speed Railway. Trains from Urumqi, Lanzhou, and other major cities offer convenient access to Turpan. By Bus: Long-distance buses operate from Urumqi and other nearby cities to Turpan. The bus ride offers scenic views of the desert and mountains along the way. By Car: If you prefer to drive, Turpan is accessible via highways from Urumqi and other parts of XinJiang. The drive offers a unique opportunity to experience the vast landscapes of the Gobi Desert.

Discarding stress and living in the now. Being a hostage of ones past, and the fears of the future that it creates, can spoil your life. Don't miss it ! With Ellen Langer and Rich Roll ...

Bonus film - The WuTa Temple in BeiJing ...

With CGTN / Travelogue ... The eight surrounding temples - with Beijing Old Liu ... With Silver Walks ... ChengDe visitor guide Overview ChengDe, located in HeBei province, is home to China's ancient royal summer retreat, known as the ChengDe Mountain Resort. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a historical complex of palaces, gardens, and temples used by the Qing dynasty emperors as a summer escape. The resort, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, showcases the grandeur and elegance of Chinese imperial architecture. History Construction of the ChengDe Mountain Resort began in 1703 under the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing dynasty and took nearly 90 years to complete. The resort served as a summer residence for Qing emperors, providing a cooler climate and a peaceful retreat from the summer heat of Beijing. It also served as a political center for managing affairs with ethnic minorities and foreign dignitaries. Main Attractions Rehe Palace The Rehe Palace is the central area of the ChengDe Mountain Resort, where the emperors conducted state affairs and received guests. The palace complex includes several halls and pavilions, each with its unique architectural features and historical significance. Lake Area The lake area of the resort is a serene and picturesque section featuring a series of interconnected lakes and islands. The lakes are surrounded by pavilions, bridges, and gardens, offering stunning views and a peaceful ambiance. Plain Area The plain area is an expansive open space designed to mimic the landscapes of the northern grasslands. It includes grazing areas, hunting grounds, and fields used for archery and other activities. The area reflects the Qing emperors' admiration for the vast, open plains of their Manchu heritage. Temple of Universal Peace (PuNing Temple) The Temple of Universal Peace, also known as PuNing Temple, is one of the Eight Outer Temples built around the ChengDe Mountain Resort. The temple is famous for its large wooden statue of Avalokitesvara (Guanyin) and its beautiful architectural blend of Han and Tibetan styles. Temple of Putuo Zongcheng The Temple of Putuo Zongcheng, inspired by the Potala Palace in Tibet, is another significant temple near the resort. It was built to celebrate the emperor's birthday and to strengthen ties with Tibetan Buddhism. The temple complex is an impressive display of Tibetan-style architecture. Culture and Traditions ChengDe Mountain Resort and its surrounding temples are a testament to the Qing dynasty's cultural and religious diversity. The site reflects the harmonious coexistence of Han Chinese, Tibetan, Mongolian, and other ethnic traditions. Visitors can witness traditional Chinese architecture, Tibetan Buddhist art, and Mongolian cultural elements, all within the resort complex. Activities and Experiences Guided Tours Consider joining a guided tour to explore the ChengDe Mountain Resort and its temples. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the site, enhancing your visit. Hiking and Nature Walks The resort is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. Visitors can enjoy hiking and nature walks along the well-maintained trails, offering stunning views and a chance to appreciate the area's natural beauty. Local Cuisine While in ChengDe, be sure to sample the local cuisine. The region is known for its unique dishes, such as ChengDe roasted lamb, Manchu-style hotpot, and various traditional snacks. Local restaurants and food stalls offer a taste of authentic HeBei flavors. Accommodation ChengDe offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Staying in a local hotel provides convenient access to the resort and other attractions in the area. Many hotels offer traditional Chinese decor and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit ChengDe is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Getting There: ChengDe is accessible by train or bus from Beijing. The high-speed train from Beijing to ChengDe takes approximately 2 hours. Local transportation options include taxis and buses. Opening Hours: The ChengDe Mountain Resort is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The surrounding temples have similar opening hours. Entrance Fees: There is an entrance fee for the ChengDe Mountain Resort and additional fees for visiting the surrounding temples. Combo tickets are available for multiple attractions. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountainous areas. Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and historical sites, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

The second video shows the overnight sleeper train.