The beauty of HangZhou 杭州 …

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With Char 787 ... With Nick in China ... Visitor Guide: Mount Qingcheng & Dujiangyan Introduction Mount Qingcheng (青城山) and Dujiangyan (都江堰) are two of Sichuan's most famous cultural and natural landmarks. Located near Chengdu, they offer a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, ancient engineering marvels, and deep-rooted Taoist traditions. This guide will help you explore these sites and understand their spiritual significance. Note: Both Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognized for their cultural and historical importance. Mount Qingcheng (青城山) What to See Shangqing Palace (上清宫): One of the most important Taoist temples on the mountain, Shangqing Palace is a serene place for reflection and meditation. It offers insights into Taoist practices and is surrounded by lush greenery. Tianshi Cave (天师洞): This cave is said to be where Zhang Daoling, the founder of the Way of the Celestial Masters, practiced Taoism. It is a sacred site for Taoist pilgrims. Jianfu Palace (建福宫): A quieter spot on the mountain, Jianfu Palace is perfect for those looking to experience the peacefulness of Taoism in a more secluded environment. Natural Scenery: Mount Qingcheng is known for its dense forests, tranquil pathways, and beautiful mountain views, embodying the Taoist principle of harmony with nature. Activities Hiking: Explore the mountain's many trails, which vary in difficulty. The trails wind through ancient temples, caves, and pavilions, offering both spiritual and physical rejuvenation. Meditation and Tai Chi: Engage in meditation or Tai Chi sessions at various temples, guided by local Taoist practitioners. This is a great way to connect with the spiritual atmosphere of the mountain. Photography: Capture the natural beauty of the mountain, with its misty peaks and verdant landscapes, which are often compared to a classical Chinese painting. Visitor Information Location: About 65 kilometers (40 miles) west of Chengdu. Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the best weather for hiking and sightseeing. How to Get There: You can take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Qingchengshan Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the mountain. Dujiangyan (都江堰) What to See Yuzui (鱼嘴): The "Fish Mouth" is the central part of the Dujiangyan irrigation system, where the Min River is split into two channels. It is a marvel of ancient engineering that showcases the Taoist principle of working in harmony with nature. Baopingkou (宝瓶口): This "Bottle-Neck Channel" regulates water flow into the irrigation system, another example of the Taoist-inspired design that emphasizes balance and non-interference. Erwang Temple (二王庙): A temple dedicated to Li Bing and his son, the architects of Dujiangyan. The temple is a place of worship and offers great views of the irrigation system and surrounding mountains. Activities Walking Tours: Explore the ancient irrigation system on foot, with guided tours available to explain the history and engineering behind Dujiangyan. Temple Visits: Participate in traditional ceremonies at Erwang Temple, where you can learn about the spiritual significance of water in Taoism. Boat Rides: Take a boat ride on the Min River to experience the irrigation system from a different perspective and enjoy the scenic views. Visitor Information Location: Approximately 56 kilometers (35 miles) northwest of Chengdu. Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. How to Get There: Buses and trains run regularly from Chengdu to Dujiangyan City. From there, local transportation can take you directly to the site. Tips for Visitors Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking and walking. The weather can change quickly, so bring a light jacket. Respect the Culture: When visiting temples, be respectful of religious practices. Quiet reflection is encouraged, and photography may be restricted in certain areas. Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially during the warmer months. There are also small vendors selling drinks and snacks along the trails. Consider a Guided Tour: Hiring a guide can enhance your experience by providing detailed information about the historical and cultural significance of the sites. Contact Information Mount Qingcheng Visitor Center: +86 28 87288101 Dujiangyan Visitor Center: +86 28 87136100 Tourist Information Hotline: 12301 (China National Tourism Administration)

In October 2008. Places visited include Green Lake Park in KunMing, the Stone Forest at ShiLin, and DaLi old town.

With Dany Dev ... A Guide to China's High-Speed Rail Network China's high-speed rail (HSR) network is the largest and most advanced in the world, offering an efficient, modern, and fast way to travel across the country. Since its inception, the network has revolutionized travel within China, making it easier and quicker to connect cities and regions that were once separated by long distances. Overview of the High-Speed Rail Network Size and Scope: As of 2024, China’s HSR network spans over 40,000 kilometers (25,000 miles), connecting nearly all major cities across the country. The network is continuously expanding, with new lines being constructed each year. Speed: Trains on the high-speed network typically travel at speeds ranging from 250 to 350 kilometers per hour (155 to 217 miles per hour). Some of the fastest trains, such as those on the Beijing–Shanghai line, can reach speeds up to 350 km/h. Key Routes: Beijing-Shanghai: This flagship route is one of the busiest and most popular, covering a distance of 1,318 kilometers (819 miles) in about 4.5 hours. Beijing-Guangzhou: One of the longest HSR routes in the world, spanning 2,298 kilometers (1,428 miles) and taking around 8 hours. Shanghai-Hong Kong: Connects the financial hub of Shanghai with the vibrant city of Hong Kong, covering 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) in approximately 8 hours. Xi’an-Chengdu: A scenic route that links the historic city of Xi’an with Chengdu, famous for its pandas, covering 658 kilometers (409 miles) in about 3 hours. Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong: This line offers a rapid connection between the three major economic hubs, with a travel time of about 14 minutes from Shenzhen to Hong Kong. Features of China’s High-Speed Trains Train Classes: China’s high-speed trains are classified primarily into three categories based on speed and service: G-Class (Gaotie): The fastest trains, operating at speeds up to 350 km/h. These are typically used on major routes like Beijing-Shanghai. D-Class (Dongche): Slightly slower, operating at speeds up to 250-300 km/h. These trains are often used on shorter or less busy routes. C-Class: Suburban trains designed for short-distance travel, operating at speeds up to 200-250 km/h. Comfort and Amenities: Seating: HSR trains offer different classes of seating, including Second Class, First Class, and Business Class. Business Class offers the most luxurious experience, with wide reclining seats and more space. Facilities: Trains are equipped with modern amenities such as power outlets, Wi-Fi (on some trains), clean restrooms, and food and beverage services. Quiet carriages are also available for passengers who prefer a more serene environment. Punctuality: The HSR network is known for its punctuality, with trains typically departing and arriving on time. Key Stations and Infrastructure Major Hubs: Beijing South Railway Station: One of the largest and busiest HSR stations, serving as a key hub for northern and central China. Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station: A massive transportation hub that integrates rail, air, and metro services, making it one of the most important stations in eastern China. Guangzhou South Railway Station: A key gateway to southern China, connecting the region with major cities like Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Wuhan Railway Station: A central hub in the heart of China, crucial for connections between the east and west. Modern Design: The stations are often architectural marvels, designed to handle large volumes of passengers efficiently. Many stations are integrated with other forms of transport, including metro lines and airports, making transfers seamless. Benefits of Using the High-Speed Rail Network Speed and Efficiency: High-speed trains are often faster than flying when considering the time spent on security checks and travel to and from airports. For distances up to 1,200 kilometers (746 miles), trains are often the quickest option. Convenience: With frequent departures, extensive coverage, and easy booking options (including online and mobile apps), the HSR network is extremely convenient for both domestic and international travelers. Environmental Impact: HSR is a greener option compared to air travel, contributing less to carbon emissions per passenger kilometer. Challenges and Future Prospects Expansion to Rural Areas: While the HSR network covers most major cities, there are ongoing efforts to expand services to more rural and remote areas, ensuring broader access. International Links: China is also exploring international HSR connections, such as a proposed high-speed rail link to Moscow, Russia, which could enhance connectivity beyond China's borders. Technological Advances: China is investing in maglev (magnetic levitation) technology, which could further increase speeds to around 600 km/h (373 mph), positioning China at the forefront of global rail innovation. Tips for Travelers Booking Tickets: Tickets can be booked online, at stations, or through travel agencies. During peak travel times, such as Chinese New Year, it is advisable to book tickets well in advance. Travel Documents: Foreign travelers will need to present their passports when booking tickets and boarding trains. Luggage: There are generous luggage allowances on HSR trains, with space available for larger items in overhead compartments or at the ends of carriages. Language: While English signage is available in major stations, it is useful to have your destination written in Chinese to show to station staff if needed. Conclusion China’s high-speed rail network is a remarkable achievement in modern transportation, offering an efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of the country. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the HSR network provides an unparalleled travel experience that continues to set global standards.

The first film of ShangHai scenes is in Ultra HD / 4K ShangHai trips ...

A beautifully understated, from the heart, performance. It gets our vote ...

With Moody Wanderer ...

HuaShan is located near the city of HuaYin in ShaanXi province, about 120 kilometers (75 miles) east of Xi'An. It is the western mountain of the Five Great Mountains of China, and has a long history of religious significance. HuaShan has five main peaks, the highest of which is the South Peak at 2,155 meters (7,070 feet).