The NATO bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade, former Yugoslavia, 1999

RiYue Bay, WanNing, 2012.

The delightful China Central TV concert of 2013 ... * Children of the Dragon (HOU Dejian, 侯德健), performed by Green QIU (QIU Wutong, 邱梧桐, 10 years old), Xiaolong (小龙, 11 years old), and JIN Zhuofan (金卓凡, 12 years old), all from China. * Memory (musical Cats, Andrew Loyd Webber), performed by Jessie Hillel (11 years old) from New Zealand. * You Raise Me Up, performed by LI Zewei (李泽维, 11 years old), ZHONG Chenle (钟辰乐, 11 years old), and LIU Bo (柳博, 10 years old), all from China. * Turkish March (土耳其进行曲), by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (莫扎特), performed by ZOU Yufei (邹宇飞, 4 years old), WANG Liya (王丽雅, 11 years old), ZHU Zihe (朱梓赫, 8 years old), and YE Zifan (叶子凡, 12 years old), all from China. * He is a Pirate, performed by CHEN Qingli (陈庆丽) from Hong Kong, China. * I can fly, performed by Teressa from the U.S. (5 years old). Teressa is of Chinese and American heritage. * Baby, performed by NIE Jieming (聂杰铭, English name: James Robert Nicol, 11 years old) from Australia. * Spicy Girl, performed by Tianyuan (Chinese name:恬源, English name: Tyerra, 8 years old) from the U.S. Tianyuan is of Chinese and American heritage. * Kalinka, performed by Russian children from Russian Embassy School in Beijing, and Xiao Ding Dang Childrens Choir of the Russian Culture Center in Beijing. * Love to Flowers and Earth Song, performed by Fairies in Rain Forest (Chinese name:雨林精灵, Pinyin: Yu Lin Jing Ling). Fairies in Rain Forest is formed by two sisters: Linda LEE (李林妲, LI Linda) and Wanda LEE (李宛妲, LI Wanda) of Chinese and German heritage. Their fater, Josef Margraf, is a German ecologist. Love to Flowers is a folk song of ethnic Hani Chinese, sung in the Hani language. Earth Song by Michael Jackson. * I Just Can't Wait to be King (from The Lion King), performed by the Popcorn Band (Chinese name: 爆米花乐团) from China and Chelsey Mark (Chinese name: 麦小龙, Pinyin: MAI Xiaolong) from Canada; Chelsey Mark is a well-known host of CCTV. * You'll Be in My Heart (Phil Collins), performed by Ming-An Fasquelle (11 years old, French-American, born in France, raised in Beijing). * I Have a Dream (Abba), performed by WANG Xinyi (王馨怡, 10 years old) from China. * ABC (Jackson 5) performed by SH' Boss Boys from the U.S. * We Will Rock You (Brian May / Queen), performed by Xiaolong (小龙), Huolong (火龙), LI Shuxi (李淑昕), ZHENG Xiao (郑宵), Tianyuan (恬源), 奥斯卡 (Oscar), 成宇朵儿 (CHENGYU Duo-Er), Popcorn Band (爆米花乐队), Zaizai (仔仔), and Kent Niepert (Xiaolong's dad).

Places to visit in and around NanJing Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum (中山陵) - Zhōngshān Líng Description: Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum is a memorial site dedicated to the founding father of the Republic of China, located at the foot of Purple Mountain. Visitors can climb the grand staircase to reach the mausoleum, explore the surrounding parkland, and pay homage to Dr. Sun Yat-sen at his final resting place. Confucius Temple (夫子庙) - Fūzǐ Miào Description: Confucius Temple is a historic complex dedicated to the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius. The temple features traditional architecture, tranquil courtyards, and cultural relics, as well as bustling markets, teahouses, and street performances. Visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere and pay tribute to Confucius' teachings and legacy. Nanjing City Wall (南京城墙) - Nánjīng Chéngqiáng Description: Nanjing City Wall is one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, dating back over 600 years. Visitors can walk or cycle along the wall's ramparts, gates, and watchtowers, enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding scenery. The wall offers insights into Nanjing's rich history and architectural heritage. Xuanwu Lake (玄武湖) - Xuánwǔ Hú Description: Xuanwu Lake is a scenic freshwater lake located in the heart of Nanjing, surrounded by parks, gardens, and historic landmarks. Visitors can take leisurely boat cruises, stroll along lakeside promenades, and enjoy recreational activities such as cycling, picnicking, and birdwatching amidst serene natural surroundings. Jiming Temple (鸡鸣寺) - Jīmíng Sì Description: Jiming Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple perched on the slopes of Purple Mountain, offering panoramic views of Nanjing. The temple complex features ancient pagodas, halls, and gardens, as well as cultural relics and religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the tranquil grounds, attend Buddhist ceremonies, and admire the temple's architectural beauty. Nanjing Museum (南京博物院) - Nánjīng Bówùyuàn Description: Nanjing Museum is one of China's largest and most comprehensive museums, showcasing the history, art, and culture of Nanjing and the Jiangsu province. The museum's extensive collections include archaeological artifacts, fine art, ceramics, and cultural relics, as well as interactive exhibits, educational programs, and temporary exhibitions. Presidential Palace (总统府) - Zǒngtǒng Fǔ Description: Presidential Palace is a historic complex serving as the former official residence of Chinese presidents. The palace features traditional Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and historical exhibitions, offering insights into China's modern history and political developments. Visitors can explore the ornate halls, courtyards, and memorial halls, as well as attend cultural events and performances. Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge (南京长江大桥) - Nánjīng Chángjiāng Dàqiáo Description: Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is a landmark bridge spanning the Yangtze River, connecting the districts of Pukou and Xiaguan. The bridge offers panoramic views of the river, city skyline, and surrounding landscapes, as well as opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the scenic riverfront. Porcelain Tower of Nanjing (南京瓷塔) - Nánjīng Cítǎ Description: Porcelain Tower of Nanjing is a historic pagoda renowned for its exquisite architecture and ornate porcelain decorations. Originally built in the 15th century, the pagoda was reconstructed in the 21st century and now serves as a cultural landmark and museum. Visitors can admire the pagoda's intricate design, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views from the top. Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (明孝陵) - Míng Xiàolíng Description: Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress. Located at the foot of Purple Mountain, the mausoleum complex features grand gateways, sacred pathways, and ancient stone sculptures, as well as serene forested surroundings ideal for contemplation and reflection. Nanjing Drum Tower (南京鼓楼) - Nánjīng Gǔlóu Description: Nanjing Drum Tower is a historic landmark dating back to the Ming Dynasty, located in the heart of Nanjing's city center. The tower once served as a military command post and timekeeping facility, and today houses a museum showcasing Nanjing's cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about the tower's history and significance. Xiaoling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty (明孝陵) - Míng Xiàolíng Description: Xiaoling Tomb is the burial site of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress. Located at the foot of Purple Mountain, the tomb complex encompasses grand gateways, pathways, and scenic gardens, as well as historical artifacts and sculptures. Visitors can explore the serene surroundings, pay respects to the Ming Dynasty's founder, and learn about imperial burial customs. Nanjing Museum of Paleontology (南京古生物博物馆) - Nánjīng Gǔshēngwù Bówùguǎn Description: Nanjing Museum of Paleontology is dedicated to the study and exhibition of fossils and prehistoric artifacts. The museum's collections include dinosaur fossils, ancient plants, and geological specimens, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs exploring Earth's natural history and evolution. Nanjing Presidential Palace (南京总统府) - Nánjīng Zǒngtǒng Fǔ Description: Nanjing Presidential Palace is a historic complex serving as the former official residence of Chinese presidents. The palace features traditional Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and historical exhibitions, offering insights into China's modern history and political developments. Visitors can explore the ornate halls, courtyards, and memorial halls, as well as attend cultural events and exhibitions. Jiming Temple Scenic Area (鸡鸣寺风景名胜区) - Jīmíng Sì Fēngjǐng Míngshèng Qū Description: Jiming Temple Scenic Area encompasses the historic Jiming Temple complex, as well as surrounding parks, gardens, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore ancient temples, pagodas, and stone inscriptions, as well as enjoy scenic walks, cultural performances, and panoramic views of Nanjing's skyline. Mochou Lake Park (莫愁湖公园) - Mòchóu Hú Gōngyuán Description: Mochou Lake Park is a scenic parkland surrounding Mochou Lake, offering a tranquil retreat amidst Nanjing's urban landscape. Visitors can stroll along lakeside promenades, admire seasonal flowers and gardens, and enjoy recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. The park also features cultural attractions, pavilions, and historic sites. Nanjing Drum Tower (南京鼓楼) - Nánjīng Gǔlóu Description: Nanjing Drum Tower is a historic landmark located in the heart of Nanjing's city center, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The tower once served as a military command post and timekeeping facility, and today houses a museum showcasing Nanjing's cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about the tower's history and significance. Porcelain Tower Site Park (瓷塔遗址公园) - Cítǎ Yízhǐ Gōngyuán Description: Porcelain Tower Site Park is a historic site commemorating the location of the former Porcelain Tower of Nanjing, a renowned pagoda destroyed during the Qing Dynasty. The park features archaeological remains, cultural exhibits, and reconstructed pagoda foundations, as well as landscaped gardens, sculptures, and panoramic views of Nanjing's skyline. Nanjing Botanical Garden (南京植物园) - Nánjīng Zhíwù Yuán Description: Nanjing Botanical Garden is a vast botanical reserve featuring diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and natural habitats. Visitors can explore walking trails, greenhouses, and scenic viewpoints, as well as participate in educational programs, workshops, and gardening activities. The garden also hosts seasonal flower shows, plant exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year. Qinhuai River Scenic Area (秦淮风光带) - Qínhuái Fēngguāng Dài Description: Qinhuai River Scenic Area is a historic waterfront district renowned for its cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and traditional architecture. Visitors can take leisurely boat cruises along the river, explore ancient streets and alleys, and admire historic landmarks such as Confucius Temple, Nanjing City Wall, and Zhonghua Gate. The area also offers opportunities for shopping, dining, and experiencing Nanjing's vibrant nightlife. Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (南京大屠杀纪念馆) - Nánjīng Dàtúshā Jìniànguǎn Description: Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall is a somber memorial dedicated to the victims of the Nanjing Massacre during World War II. The memorial hall features historical exhibits, documentary films, and testimonies from survivors, as well as educational programs and activities promoting peace, reconciliation, and remembrance.

With Wei's Travel ... Visitor Guide to QingXi Ancient Water Town Getting There From ShangHai: Metro Line 8 (Jiangyue Road Station) - Jiangwu Line/Jiangwu Line Section, after 18 stations, arrive at Qingcun By Train: Take a high-speed train from ShangHai Hongqiao Railway Station to Kunshan South Railway Station. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. From Kunshan, you can take a taxi or local bus to QingXi Ancient Water Town. By Bus: There are direct buses from ShangHai to Kunshan. The bus journey takes around 1-1.5 hours. By Car: If you prefer to drive, the trip from ShangHai to QingXi takes approximately 1-1.5 hours via the G2 Beijing-Shanghai Expressway. Entrance and Tickets Entrance Fee: Entrance to the water town is generally free, but certain attractions and museums within the town may charge a small fee. Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors all day, but specific attractions and shops usually operate from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Attractions and Activities Waterways and Bridges Boating Tours: Take a traditional gondola ride along the scenic waterways. The boat tours offer a unique perspective of the town’s ancient bridges, historic buildings, and daily life along the canals. Historic Bridges: QingXi boasts numerous ancient stone bridges, each with its own history and architectural style. Notable ones include the Taiping Bridge and Zhenfeng Bridge. Historic Architecture Traditional Houses: Stroll through the town's narrow lanes and admire the well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty houses. Many of these houses have distinctive white walls, black tiles, and wooden carvings. Old Town Square: The central square often hosts traditional performances, markets, and cultural events, giving you a taste of local life and traditions. Cultural and Historical Sites QingXi Ancient Academy: Visit this historic educational institution to learn about the town's academic heritage and traditional Chinese education. Temples and Shrines: Explore local temples and shrines, such as the QingXi Temple, to experience the town's spiritual side and admire religious architecture. Museums and Exhibitions Folk Custom Museum: This museum showcases local crafts, traditional costumes, and cultural artifacts, providing insights into the daily lives and customs of the town’s residents. Silk Museum: Learn about the region's rich history of silk production, including traditional silk weaving techniques and displays of exquisite silk products. Dining and Local Specialties Riverside Restaurants: Enjoy a meal at one of the many riverside restaurants offering local delicacies. Freshwater fish, shrimp, and crabs are popular choices. Local Snacks: Try traditional snacks like Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), Osmanthus cake, and hand-pulled noodles. Street vendors and small eateries throughout the town offer these treats. Tea Houses: Relax in a traditional tea house, sipping on local teas and enjoying the serene water town atmosphere. Shopping Souvenir Shops: Browse the numerous shops selling local handicrafts, silk products, and traditional clothing. These make great souvenirs and gifts. Antique Markets: Explore antique shops and markets where you can find unique items such as vintage coins, pottery, and old books. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit QingXi are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Bring an umbrella or raincoat if visiting during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Conclusion QingXi Ancient Water Town offers a tranquil escape from the urban hustle of ShangHai, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in China's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. With its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant local culture, QingXi is a destination that promises a memorable and enriching experience.

Highlights of an eight week trip though Tibet, YunNan, SiChuan, GanSu and QingHai provinces (2007).

With Silberventures ...

With Walk China ... Grasslands of Gansu Province travel guide Introduction The grasslands of Gansu Province are a breathtaking natural wonder, offering vast expanses of rolling hills, lush meadows, and vibrant wildflowers. These grasslands are home to diverse wildlife and traditional nomadic cultures, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience. This guide will help you explore the beauty of Gansu's grasslands, including must-see attractions, local culture, and practical travel tips. Must-See Grasslands Maqu Grassland (玛曲草原) Maqu Grassland, located in the southern part of Gansu Province, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved grasslands in China. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, including rare species of plants and animals. Visitors can experience traditional Tibetan nomadic culture, including horseback riding and staying in yurts. Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (甘南藏族自治州) Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is a region in Gansu known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant Tibetan culture. The grasslands here are dotted with monasteries, prayer flags, and nomadic camps. Highlights include the Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Sangke Grassland, a perfect spot for camping and picnicking. Ruoergai Grassland (若尔盖草原) Ruoergai Grassland, also known as Zoige Grassland, is located at the border of Gansu and Sichuan provinces. It is one of the largest and most picturesque grasslands in China, featuring vast wetlands, rivers, and lakes. The area is home to numerous bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Langmusi (郎木寺) Langmusi is a small town located on the border of Gansu and Sichuan provinces, known for its beautiful grasslands and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. The town is surrounded by lush meadows and mountains, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and horse riding. The local monasteries, such as the Kirti Monastery and Sertri Monastery, are also worth visiting. Local Culture The grasslands of Gansu are home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, including Tibetans, Mongolians, and Hui Muslims. These communities have preserved their traditional ways of life, including nomadic herding, Tibetan Buddhism, and unique culinary traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through homestays, attending festivals, and participating in traditional activities. Tibetan Festivals Tibetan festivals are an integral part of the cultural landscape in Gansu's grasslands. Key festivals include Losar (Tibetan New Year), Shoton (Yogurt Festival), and the Horse Racing Festival. These events feature traditional music, dance, religious rituals, and sports competitions, providing a vibrant and immersive cultural experience. Traditional Nomadic Life Experiencing the traditional nomadic lifestyle is a highlight of any visit to the grasslands. Visitors can stay in yurts, ride horses, and learn about the herding practices that have sustained these communities for centuries. This offers a unique insight into the symbiotic relationship between the nomads and their natural environment. Practical Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the grasslands of Gansu is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is mild, and the grasslands are in full bloom. Getting Around: Due to the vast and remote nature of the grasslands, hiring a local guide or joining a tour is recommended. Public transportation options are limited, and having a guide will enhance your experience. Accommodation: Accommodation options range from basic guesthouses to traditional yurts. Staying in a yurt provides a unique cultural experience, but it's essential to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Health and Safety: The high altitude of some grassland areas can cause altitude sickness. It's important to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack appropriate clothing. Respect Local Customs: When visiting Tibetan and other ethnic communities, respect local customs and traditions. Seek permission before taking photographs, especially in religious sites and of local people. Conclusion The grasslands of Gansu Province offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience, combining stunning natural landscapes with rich cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring the vast meadows, learning about nomadic traditions, or immersing yourself in Tibetan culture, the grasslands of Gansu provide a deep and enriching connection to the natural and cultural wonders of China. Use this guide to plan your journey and make the most of your visit to this extraordinary region.