The beautiful DeTian Waterfalls, GuangXi province

With Travel In China ... Visitor Guide to LiKeng Ancient Town, JiangXi Province Overview LiKeng Ancient Town, located in Wuyuan County of JiangXi Province, is a picturesque village known for its well-preserved architecture, traditional culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Often referred to as the "most beautiful village in China," LiKeng offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and rural life. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is Jingdezhen Luojia Airport (JDZ), located about 90 kilometers from LiKeng. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Wuyuan County and then a local bus or taxi to LiKeng. By Train: Wuyuan Railway Station is the closest train station, with connections to major cities like ShangHai, HangZhou, and NanChang. From the station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to LiKeng. By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities to Wuyuan County. From Wuyuan County, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach LiKeng. Getting Around Walking: The best way to explore LiKeng is on foot. The village is small and pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to leisurely stroll through its charming streets. Biking: Renting a bicycle is a popular option for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from nearby towns and attractions. Main Attractions Ancient Architecture LiKeng is renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. The traditional wooden houses, stone bridges, and narrow lanes reflect the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Li Family Ancestral Hall The Li Family Ancestral Hall is a significant historical site in LiKeng. It showcases intricate wood carvings, beautiful murals, and traditional Chinese architectural design. Stone Arch Bridges LiKeng is dotted with ancient stone arch bridges that add to its scenic charm. These bridges, with their elegant curves and historical significance, are perfect for photography and leisurely walks. Surrounding Countryside The countryside around LiKeng is known for its lush greenery, terraced fields, and beautiful tea plantations. Exploring the rural landscape offers a peaceful and picturesque experience. Local Cuisine LiKeng's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Here are some must-try dishes: Wuyuan Steamed Fish: Fresh fish from the local rivers, steamed with a light seasoning to retain its natural flavors. Rice Wine Chicken: Chicken cooked with local rice wine, creating a tender and flavorful dish. Wild Vegetables: Various wild vegetables picked from the surrounding countryside, often stir-fried or used in soups. Wuyuan Green Tea: Enjoy a cup of locally-produced green tea, known for its fresh taste and health benefits. Shopping Local Handicrafts: LiKeng is known for its traditional handicrafts, including bamboo weaving, pottery, and wood carvings. These items make for unique souvenirs. Tea Shops: Purchase high-quality green tea from local tea shops, which offer a variety of teas produced in the surrounding area. Market Streets: Explore the market streets for local snacks, handmade goods, and other unique items reflecting the town's cultural heritage. Accommodation Traditional Guesthouses: Stay in a traditional guesthouse to experience the local lifestyle. Many guesthouses are located in historical buildings with charming courtyards. Mid-Range Hotels: There are several mid-range hotels in Wuyuan County offering comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Budget Options: Budget travelers can find affordable lodging in hostels and budget hotels in and around LiKeng. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit LiKeng are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: LiKeng is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion LiKeng Ancient Town in JiangXi Province offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring its ancient architecture, savoring local cuisine, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, LiKeng provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this charming and picturesque village.

GuangXi province. Including the LongJi rice terraces.

With Cyrus Janssen ... With Lee Camp ...

A Chinese brush artist since 1976, Virginia Lloyd-Davies has paintings in collections in the U.S., China, Britain, Europe, Japan, Mexico and Kenya. Her teacher for 26 years until his death was Master Painter I-Hsiung Ju, with whom she traveled regularly to China & Taiwan. Watch Virginia demonstrate a typical lotus painting ...

With Beautiful China ... XiaSi Ancient Town - Dong Village Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of XiaSi Ancient Town XiaSi Ancient Town, located in the Dong Village of GuiZhou Province, is a historic town that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Dong ethnic group. With a history dating back over 800 years, XiaSi is renowned for its traditional Dong architecture, unique drum towers, and wind and rain bridges. The town's preservation of ancient customs and traditions provides a living snapshot of Dong culture that has been passed down through generations. Top Attractions in XiaSi Ancient Town 1. Drum Tower The Drum Tower is the symbol of the Dong people and serves as the heart of the village. It is a traditional wooden structure used for gatherings and ceremonies. The intricate carvings and unique architecture make it a must-see. 2. Wind and Rain Bridge The Wind and Rain Bridge, also known as the Flower Bridge, is an iconic piece of Dong architecture. It serves not only as a bridge but also as a place for villagers to rest and socialize, sheltered from the elements. 3. Dong Opera Stage The open-air Dong Opera Stage is a cultural gem where traditional Dong performances are held. Visitors can experience the rich storytelling and music that characterize Dong opera. 4. Dong Residential Houses Stroll through the village to see the traditional stilted wooden houses of the Dong people. These homes are built using ancient techniques and showcase the unique architectural style of the Dong community. Activities to Enjoy 1. Participate in a Dong Dance Join the locals in a traditional Dong dance. The Dong people are known for their vibrant dance and music, often performed in the village square or around the Drum Tower. 2. Explore Local Handicrafts Visit local workshops to see artisans creating traditional Dong handicrafts, including embroidery, silver jewelry, and wooden carvings. You can also purchase these items as souvenirs. 3. Attend a Dong Wedding Ceremony If you're lucky, you might witness a traditional Dong wedding ceremony. These ceremonies are colorful and vibrant, featuring music, dance, and traditional rituals. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Dong Rice Wine Dong rice wine is a traditional beverage made from glutinous rice. It has a sweet flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. 2. Sour Fish Soup This is a popular dish among the Dong people, made with fresh fish, pickled vegetables, and spices. The soup has a distinctive sour and spicy flavor. 3. Glutinous Rice Cakes Glutinous rice cakes are a traditional snack in Dong cuisine. They are often filled with sweet or savory ingredients and steamed to perfection. How to Get There By Bus From Guiyang, the capital of GuiZhou, you can take a long-distance bus to Liping County, followed by a local bus to XiaSi. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours. By Train Take a train to Kaili, a nearby city in GuiZhou. From Kaili, buses are available to Liping County and then to XiaSi Ancient Town. By Car If you prefer driving, renting a car from Guiyang or Kaili is an option. The roads to XiaSi are scenic but can be narrow and winding, so drive with caution. Travel Tips for XiaSi Ancient Town Learn a few basic phrases in the Dong language to connect better with locals. They appreciate the effort! Respect local customs and traditions, especially during ceremonies and cultural events. Bring comfortable walking shoes as you will be exploring on foot, often on uneven paths. Plan your visit during one of the Dong festivals, such as the Dong New Year, to experience the vibrant local culture.

With Michael Brenner and Neutrality Studies ... With John Pang ... With Ben Norton ... With Inside China Business ... With Cyrus Janssen ... On the Chinese invested new canal in Cambodia, the Funan Techo Canal, that links its capital city Phnom Penh, on the Mekong river, to the Gulf of Thailand, facilitating trade and Cambodia's development ... With Harvey in China ...

In ShaanXi province.

A coastal province in south east China 美丽中国·清新福建 官方旅游宣传短片

Day Trips from Shenzhen, China Guangzhou 广州 (Guǎngzhōu): Explore the vibrant capital of Guangdong Province, known for its rich history, delicious Cantonese cuisine, and modern skyscrapers. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Canton Tower, stroll along the historic Shamian Island, and sample local delicacies at the bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. Hong Kong 香港 (Xiānggǎng): Experience the dynamic cityscape of Hong Kong, just a short train ride away from Shenzhen. Explore attractions like Victoria Harbour, ride the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak for stunning city views, and indulge in shopping and dining in areas like Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui. Macau 澳门 (Àomén): Discover the unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture in Macau, known for its historic colonial architecture, vibrant casinos, and delicious egg tarts. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Ruins of St. Paul's, explore the historic streets of Senado Square, and try your luck at the famous casinos along the Cotai Strip. Dameisha Beach and Xiaomeisha Beach 大梅沙海滨公园 (Dàméishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán) and 小梅沙海滨公园 (Xiǎoméishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán): Relax and unwind at Dameisha and Xiaomeisha Beaches, popular seaside destinations located just outside of Shenzhen. Enjoy sunbathing on the golden sands, swimming in the clear waters of the South China Sea, and participating in water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. Window of the World 世界之窗 (Shìjiè zhī Chuāng): Immerse yourself in a world of wonders at Window of the World, an amusement park in Shenzhen that features miniature replicas of famous landmarks from around the globe. Explore iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, and the Great Wall of China, all within a single day. Shenzhen Safari Park 深圳野生动物园 (Shēnzhèn Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): Get up close and personal with wildlife from around the world at Shenzhen Safari Park. Explore the park's vast grounds by tram or on foot, and encounter animals such as giant pandas, giraffes, and lions in naturalistic habitats. Fairy Lake Botanical Garden 仙湖植物园 (Xiānhú Zhíwùyuán): Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature at Fairy Lake Botanical Garden. Explore lush gardens, serene lakes, and scenic hiking trails, and discover a diverse collection of plant species from China and around the world. Shekou Sea World 蛇口海上世界 (Shékǒu Hǎishàng Shìjiè): Spend a day exploring the attractions of Shekou Sea World, a waterfront entertainment complex in Shenzhen. Visit the Sea World Culture and Arts Center, enjoy shopping and dining at the Sea World Plaza, and discover marine life at the Sea World Aquarium. Shenzhen Museum 深圳博物馆 (Shēnzhèn Bówùguǎn): Dive into the history and culture of Shenzhen at the Shenzhen Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits on the city's evolution from a fishing village to a modern metropolis, learn about the region's archaeological treasures, and discover the cultural heritage of the local Hakka ethnic minority. Da Fen Oil Painting Village 大芬油画村 (Dà Fēn Yóuhuà Cūn): Discover the vibrant arts scene of Shenzhen at Da Fen Oil Painting Village, a community known for its talented artists and galleries. Watch artists at work in their studios, browse a wide range of original paintings and artworks, and purchase unique souvenirs to take home. Day Trip to Dongguan 东莞 (Dōngguǎn): Explore the nearby city of Dongguan, known for its manufacturing industry, cultural heritage, and natural attractions. Visit landmarks such as the Keyuan Garden, learn about traditional Cantonese opera at the Qifeng Park Opera Stage, and enjoy shopping at the bustling Dongguan Walking Street. Day Trip to Huizhou 惠州 (Huìzhōu): Discover the historic city of Huizhou, located along the Pearl River Delta and known for its ancient landmarks, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage. Visit attractions such as the Luofu Mountain, explore ancient villages like Xingfu Village, and relax on the sandy shores of Xunliao Bay. Day Trip to Dongguan 东莞 (Dōngguǎn): Explore the nearby city of Dongguan, known for its manufacturing industry, cultural heritage, and natural attractions. Visit landmarks such as the Keyuan Garden, learn about traditional Cantonese opera at the Qifeng Park Opera Stage, and enjoy shopping at the bustling Dongguan Walking Street. Day Trip to Foshan 佛山 (Fóshān): Visit the historic city of Foshan, known for its centuries-old martial arts traditions, ancient temples, and traditional Cantonese culture. Explore attractions such as the Foshan Ancestral Temple, watch a demonstration of traditional lion dancing at the Foshan Lion Dance Museum, and visit the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln for a glimpse into the region's ceramic heritage. Day Trip to Zhuhai 珠海 (Zhūhǎi): Discover the coastal city of Zhuhai, located on the Pearl River Delta and known for its beautiful beaches, lush parks, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit attractions such as the New Yuanming Palace, stroll along Lover's Road for panoramic views of the coastline, and enjoy fresh seafood at the bustling Gongbei Seafood Street.