The beauty of the historical DaMing Palace 大明宫

The DaMing Palace (DaMing Gong, Palace of Great Brilliance) was the imperial palace complex of the Tang Dynasty, located in its capital Chang'An. It served as the royal residence of the Tang emperors for more than 220 years.

Today, the DaMing Palace site is designated a National Heritage Site of China, located a little north east of present-day Xi'An city center, ShaanXi province, central China. One can take subway line 2 to DaMingGongXi (DaMing Palace West) station.

The palace complex was destroyed at the end of the Tang dynasty. The ruins were only discovered in the 1950s and some parts have now been reconstructed following careful archaeological analysis of the site. The reconstructions, museum and grounds opened to visitors in 2010.

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A beautiful film ...

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Xi'an, located in the heart of Shaanxi Province in northwest China, is one of the oldest cities in China and served as the capital for numerous dynasties, including the Qin, Han, and Tang. Renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks, Xi'an is a must-visit destination for tourists. Here's a guide for tourists visiting Xi'an:

Historical and Cultural Significance:
Ancient Capital: Xi'an served as the capital of China for over 13 dynasties and played a crucial role in shaping Chinese history and civilization. It was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between China and the West.

Terracotta Army: One of Xi'an's most famous attractions is the Terracotta Army, a vast collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. Discovered in 1974, the Terracotta Army is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of China's rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions:
Terracotta Army Museum: Located about 30 kilometers east of Xi'an, the Terracotta Army Museum is home to thousands of intricately crafted terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots. Visitors can explore the excavation pits, marvel at the craftsmanship, and learn about the history of the Qin Dynasty.

Ancient City Wall: Xi'an is renowned for its well-preserved ancient city wall, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Stretching over 13 kilometers in length, the wall offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and sightseeing.

Muslim Quarter: Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, located near the Drum Tower and Great Mosque of Xi'an. This bustling neighborhood is known for its lively street markets, traditional Islamic architecture, and delicious street food, including lamb skewers, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and hand-pulled noodles.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda: Built during the Tang Dynasty, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a prominent Buddhist landmark in Xi'an. Visitors can climb the pagoda for panoramic views of the city or explore the surrounding temple complex and gardens.

Shaanxi History Museum: Discover the rich history and culture of Shaanxi Province at the Shaanxi History Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, bronze ware, jade, and Tang Dynasty murals, providing insights into the region's heritage.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Getting around Xi'an is convenient with its extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and the Xi'an Metro. Bicycle rentals are also available for exploring the city at a leisurely pace.

Weather: Xi'an has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language spoken in Xi'an, although English may not be widely spoken, especially in more remote areas. It's helpful to learn some basic phrases or carry a phrasebook or translation app.

Currency: The currency used in China is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and transactions.

Xi'an offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, cultural heritage, and modern urban life, making it an enchanting destination for tourists seeking to explore the wonders of ancient China. Whether marveling at the Terracotta Army, walking along the ancient city wall, or sampling delicious street food in the Muslim Quarter, Xi'an has something to offer for every traveler.

ShaanXi map

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The beautiful DeXing countryside, JiangXi province

With Jason / Living In China ... DeXing 德兴, JiangXi province - Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of DeXing DeXing, located in JiangXi Province, is a city with a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. Known for its copper mining industry, DeXing played a significant role in China's economic development, particularly during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The city is surrounded by lush mountains and has been a center of trade and culture, contributing to its unique historical and cultural heritage. Top Attractions in DeXing 1. Mount Sanqing Mount Sanqing, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most famous attractions in DeXing. Known for its stunning granite peaks, unique rock formations, and Taoist cultural significance, this mountain offers breathtaking views and serene landscapes. 2. Lingyan Temple Lingyan Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located on the slopes of Mount Sanqing. The temple is known for its peaceful surroundings, beautiful architecture, and the grand statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. 3. Yunbi Peak Forest Park This natural park is a haven for nature lovers, featuring lush forests, clear streams, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for hiking, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of DeXing. 4. Copper Mine Museum As DeXing is historically known for its copper mining industry, the Copper Mine Museum provides insights into the city's mining history. Visitors can learn about the mining techniques, history, and see various exhibits related to copper mining. Activities to Enjoy 1. Hiking on Mount Sanqing Mount Sanqing offers numerous hiking trails that cater to both beginner and experienced hikers. The trails provide stunning views of the mountain's unique granite peaks, dense forests, and scenic waterfalls. 2. Exploring Ancient Villages DeXing is home to several ancient villages that retain traditional JiangXi architectural styles. These villages offer a glimpse into the region's history and culture, with ancient buildings, narrow alleys, and traditional lifestyles. 3. Visiting Local Markets Exploring the local markets in DeXing is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine. Markets are filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and handcrafted items, offering a taste of the local life. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Gan Cuisine Gan cuisine, the traditional cuisine of JiangXi Province, is known for its bold flavors and use of local ingredients. Dishes often feature pickled vegetables, fresh fish, and a variety of spices. 2. Copper Hotpot A unique dish in DeXing, the Copper Hotpot is named after the city’s historical association with copper mining. This hotpot features a rich broth and a variety of ingredients including meat, seafood, and vegetables. 3. JiangXi Rice Noodles These rice noodles are a popular dish in DeXing, served in a flavorful broth with toppings such as minced meat, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. How to Get There By Train DeXing is well connected by rail, with regular trains running from major cities like Nanchang and Shangrao. The train journey offers scenic views of JiangXi's countryside. By Bus There are frequent bus services from nearby cities and towns to DeXing. Buses are a convenient and affordable option for reaching the city. By Car Driving to DeXing offers the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. The city is accessible by major highways, making it easy to reach by car. Travel Tips for DeXing Plan your visit during spring or autumn for the best weather and to enjoy the natural scenery at its peak. Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin, as English is not widely spoken in rural areas. Bring cash, as some local shops and markets may not accept credit cards. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and ancient villages.

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The ‘Uyghur Tribunal’ : predictable and dangerous propaganda

Brian Berletic : "It is no coincidence that the so-called 'Uyghur Tribunal's 'final ruling' coincided with a dump of supposedly 'leaked' documents and the US-led 'diplomatic boycott' of the BeiJing 2022 Olympics. This is a massive propaganda campaign aimed at building hatred for China and justification for conflict with China." Circus, lies, propaganda, theater, kangaroo court. Manufacturing consent. And the mainstream media play their role as war propagandists; a disgrace to the human race. With The New Atlas ...

50 places to visit in XinJiang

XinJiang: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) (天池 Tiānchí): A stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering boat rides and hiking trails suitable for families. Kanas Lake (喀纳斯湖 Kānàsī Hú): A picturesque alpine lake with clear blue waters, surrounded by forests and mountains, offering boat rides and nature walks. Grasslands (草原 Cǎoyuán): Explore the vast grasslands of Xinjiang, where kids can run around freely and enjoy horseback riding and camping experiences. Gaochang Ancient City (高昌古城 Gāochāng Gǔchéng): Explore the ruins of an ancient Silk Road city, where kids can learn about history and archaeology through guided tours. Ancient City of Jiaohe (交河故城 Jiāohé Gùchéng): Discover the well-preserved ruins of an ancient desert city, offering a glimpse into Xinjiang's rich history. Taklamakan Desert (塔克拉玛干沙漠 Tǎkèlāmǎgān Shāmò): Experience the vastness of the desert landscape with camel rides and sand dune adventures suitable for adventurous kids. Turpan Grape Valley (吐鲁番葡萄沟 Tǔlǔfān Pútáogōu): Explore vineyards and orchards in this lush valley, where kids can taste fresh fruits and learn about agriculture. Karakul Lake (喀拉库勒湖 Kālākùlè Hú): Marvel at the stunning scenery of this high-altitude lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering opportunities for photography and relaxation. Xinjiang Silk Road Museum (新疆丝绸之路博物馆 Xīnjiāng Sīchóu Zhī Lù Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of the Silk Road through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Flaming Mountains (火焰山 Huǒyàn Shān): Explore the unique red sandstone formations of the Flaming Mountains, which inspired ancient legends, suitable for outdoor exploration and photography. Emin Minaret (苏公塔 Sūgōngtǎ): Admire the architectural beauty of this historic minaret, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and insights into Islamic culture. Altai Mountains (阿尔泰山脉 Ā'ěrtài Shānmài): Discover the natural beauty of the Altai Mountains, where kids can enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and camping adventures. Bayinbuluke Grassland (巴音布鲁克草原 Bāyīnbùlǔkè Cǎoyuán): Experience the vast grasslands of Bayinbuluke, where kids can participate in horseback riding, nomadic culture experiences, and yurt stays. Hemu Village (禾木村 Hémù Cūn): Visit this picturesque village nestled in the mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, photography, and cultural immersion. Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves (柏孜克里千佛洞 Bózīkèlǐ Qiānfódòng): Explore ancient Buddhist caves adorned with murals and sculptures, offering insights into the region's religious history. Turpan Ancient City (吐鲁番古城 Tǔlǔfān Gǔchéng): Wander through the narrow streets and ancient ruins of Turpan's old city, where kids can imagine life in ancient times. Tianshan Tianchi National Park (天山天池国家公园 Tiānshān Tiānchí Guójiā Gōngyuán): Explore the pristine natural beauty of Tianshan Tianchi National Park, offering hiking trails, boating, and scenic vistas. Yarkant Ancient City (莎车古城 Shāchē Gǔchéng): Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Yarkant, known for its historic mosques, markets, and traditional architecture. Shipton's Arch (希普顿拱门 Xīpǔdùn Gǒngmén): Marvel at the natural wonder of Shipton's Arch, one of the largest natural arches in the world, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. Xinjiang Regional Museum (新疆维吾尔自治区博物馆 Xīnjiāng Wéiwú'ěr Zìzhìqū Bówùguǎn): Learn about Xinjiang's diverse cultures, history, and artifacts through exhibits and interactive displays suitable for families. XinJiang: 30 More Places to Visit Karakoram Highway (喀喇昆仑公路 Kālākūnlún Gōnglù): Embark on an epic road trip along one of the highest paved roads in the world, offering stunning mountain scenery and cultural encounters. Urumqi Grand Bazaar (乌鲁木齐大巴扎 Wūlǔmùqí Dàbāzhā): Explore the bustling markets of Urumqi, where kids can sample local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and experience the vibrant atmosphere. Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves (克孜尔千佛洞 Kèzī'ěr Qiānfódòng): Marvel at the ancient Buddhist art and architecture of the Kizil Caves, known for their colorful murals and intricate carvings. Tuyoq Valley (吐峪沟 Tǔyùgōu): Discover the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Tuyoq Valley, where kids can explore ancient ruins, visit local villages, and enjoy hiking trails. Gaochang Ruins (高昌故城 Gāochāng Gùchéng): Explore the ruins of an ancient Silk Road city, offering insights into the region's history and architecture. Xinjiang Grape Valley (新疆葡萄沟 Xīnjiāng Pútáogōu): Visit vineyards and orchards in this picturesque valley, where kids can taste fresh fruits and learn about grape cultivation. Xinjiang Regional Museum (新疆维吾尔自治区博物馆 Xīnjiāng Wéiwú'ěr Zìzhìqū Bówùguǎn): Learn about Xinjiang's diverse cultures, history, and artifacts through exhibits and interactive displays suitable for families. Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum (新疆维吾尔自治区博物馆 Xīnjiāng Wéiwú'ěr Zìzhìqū Bówùguǎn): Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Uyghur people through exhibits on art, music, and traditions. Bayinbulak Grassland (巴音布鲁克草原 Bāyīnbùlǔkè Cǎoyuán): Experience the beauty of the grasslands, where kids can spot wildlife, ride horses, and enjoy traditional nomadic hospitality. Altai Mountains (阿尔泰山 Ā'ěrtài Shān): Discover the rugged beauty of the Altai Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife watching. Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves (柏孜克里千佛洞 Bózīkèlǐ Qiānfódòng): Explore ancient Buddhist caves adorned with murals and sculptures, offering insights into the region's religious history. Grape Valley (葡萄沟 Pútáogōu): Visit vineyards and orchards in this picturesque valley, where kids can taste fresh fruits and learn about grape cultivation. Yarkant Ancient City (莎车古城 Shāchē Gǔchéng): Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Yarkant, known for its historic mosques, markets, and traditional architecture. Shipton's Arch (希普顿拱门 Xīpǔdùn Gǒngmén): Marvel at the natural wonder of Shipton's Arch, one of the largest natural arches in the world, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. Turpan Grape Valley (吐鲁番葡萄沟 Tǔlǔfān Pútáogōu): Explore vineyards and orchards in this lush valley, where kids can taste fresh fruits and learn about agriculture. Altun Mountains (阿尔金山 Ā'ěrjīn Shān): Discover the rugged beauty of the Altun Mountains, home to diverse ecosystems, including glaciers, lakes, and alpine meadows. Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) (天池 Tiānchí): A stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering boat rides and hiking trails suitable for families. Ancient City of Jiaohe (交河故城 Jiāohé Gùchéng): Discover the well-preserved ruins of an ancient desert city, offering a glimpse into Xinjiang's rich history. Emin Minaret (苏公塔 Sūgōngtǎ): Admire the architectural beauty of this historic minaret, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and insights into Islamic culture. Bayinbuluke Grassland (巴音布鲁克草原 Bāyīnbùlǔkè Cǎoyuán): Experience the vast grasslands of Bayinbuluke, where kids can participate in horseback riding, nomadic culture experiences, and yurt stays. Hemu Village (禾木村 Hémù Cūn): Visit this picturesque village nestled in the mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, photography, and cultural immersion. Karakoram Highway (喀喇昆仑公路 Kālākūnlún Gōnglù): Embark on an epic road trip along one of the highest paved roads in the world, offering stunning mountain scenery and cultural encounters. Urumqi Grand Bazaar (乌鲁木齐大巴扎 Wūlǔmùqí Dàbāzhā): Explore the bustling markets of Urumqi, where kids can sample local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and experience the vibrant atmosphere. Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves (克孜尔千佛洞 Kèzī'ěr Qiānfódòng): Marvel at the ancient Buddhist art and architecture of the Kizil Caves, known for their colorful murals and intricate carvings. Tuyoq Valley (吐峪沟 Tǔyùgōu): Discover the scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Tuyoq Valley, where kids can explore ancient ruins, visit local villages, and enjoy hiking trails. Gaochang Ruins (高昌故城 Gāochāng Gùchéng): Explore the ruins of an ancient Silk Road city, offering insights into the region's history and architecture. Xinjiang Grape Valley (新疆葡萄沟 Xīnjiāng Pútáogōu): Visit vineyards and orchards in this picturesque valley, where kids can taste fresh fruits and learn about grape cultivation. Xinjiang Regional Museum (新疆维吾尔自治区博物馆 Xīnjiāng Wéiwú'ěr Zìzhìqū Bówùguǎn): Learn about Xinjiang's diverse cultures, history, and artifacts through exhibits and interactive displays suitable for families.