The Harbin 哈尔滨 Snow and Ice Festival 2019

With Walk East ...

A film by Pryadko Artem and Shishkovski Dmitry

With DianXi XiaoGe ...

With Beijing Old Liu ... Visitor Guide to YanQi Lake, BeiJing Overview YanQi Lake, located in the HuaiRou District of BeiJing, is a stunning natural area known for its picturesque landscapes and clear waters. It is a popular destination for both leisure and business, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city and a venue for high-profile international events, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in 2014. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), approximately 50 kilometers from YanQi Lake. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the lake. By Train: You can take a high-speed train to HuaiRou North Railway Station and then a taxi or local bus to YanQi Lake. By Bus: Several buses run from downtown BeiJing to HuaiRou District. You can then take a local bus or taxi to YanQi Lake. Getting Around Walking: YanQi Lake area is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate its natural beauty and serene environment. Biking: Renting a bike is a popular option for getting around and exploring the scenic routes around the lake. Local Transport: Taxis and shuttle services are available for traveling to and from different parts of the lake area and nearby attractions. Main Attractions YanQi Island YanQi Island is the centerpiece of YanQi Lake, hosting luxury resorts, conference centers, and beautiful gardens. It is an ideal place for relaxation, high-end dining, and international conferences. YanQi Tower The YanQi Tower offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for breathtaking scenery and photography opportunities. Boat Tours Boat tours on YanQi Lake provide a peaceful and scenic way to explore the area. Various types of boats, from traditional Chinese boats to modern yachts, are available for hire. Wild Duck Lake Nearby Wild Duck Lake is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to a variety of bird species, especially migratory birds. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Hongluo Temple Located a short distance from YanQi Lake, Hongluo Temple is one of the largest and oldest temples in northern China. It offers a serene environment and rich cultural heritage. Local Cuisine While visiting YanQi Lake, you can enjoy a variety of local and international cuisines. Here are some recommendations: Peking Duck: A world-famous dish, Peking Duck is a must-try when in BeiJing. Many restaurants near YanQi Lake serve this delicacy. YanQi Lake Fish: Freshly caught fish from the lake, prepared in various styles, is a local specialty. HuaiRou Chestnut: HuaiRou is known for its delicious chestnuts, which can be enjoyed roasted or used in local dishes. Shopping Local Handicrafts: Explore shops around YanQi Lake for traditional Chinese handicrafts, including silk products, pottery, and paintings. Specialty Foods: Purchase local specialties such as HuaiRou chestnuts, honey, and other agricultural products. Souvenirs: Various souvenir shops offer items commemorating the APEC summit and other significant events held at YanQi Lake. Accommodation Luxury Resorts: YanQi Lake is home to several luxury resorts, such as the YanQi Lake Kempinski Hotel, which offers top-notch amenities and stunning views. Mid-Range Hotels: There are also several mid-range hotels and boutique accommodations around the lake area, providing comfort and convenience at reasonable prices. Guesthouses: For a more local experience, consider staying in one of the guesthouses or inns in the nearby villages. Historical Background of YanQi Lake YanQi Lake is a man-made reservoir created in the 1980s to improve water supply and irrigation for the HuaiRou District. The project aimed to enhance the local agricultural productivity and provide a recreational area for residents and visitors. Over the years, YanQi Lake has developed into a major tourist destination and a hub for international events. The lake and its surrounding areas have been carefully maintained and upgraded to offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. The area around YanQi Lake has also been a site of historical significance. The nearby Hongluo Temple, dating back over 1,000 years, reflects the region's rich spiritual and cultural history. The combination of ancient traditions and modern development makes YanQi Lake a unique and attractive destination. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit YanQi Lake are spring (April to June) 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: YanQi Lake is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to enjoy the scenic views, visit local attractions, and savor the local cuisine. Conclusion YanQi Lake, with its stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring the tranquil lake, visiting nearby cultural sites, or enjoying local cuisine, YanQi Lake provides a serene escape and a glimpse into the rich heritage of BeiJing. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this picturesque destination in the HuaiRou District.

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.

NánLuóGǔXiàng was first constructed during the Yuan Dynasty and received its current name during the Qing Dynasty, around 1750. The alley is approximately 800 meters long. In recent years, the area's HuTongs have become a popular tourist destination with restaurants, bars, live music, tea and coffee shops, fast food and souvenir shops, as well as some old SiHeYuan associated with various famous historic and literary figures. NanLuoGuXiang subway station is located near the south entrance to the alley.

Moderate Rebels talks with professor Michael Hudson ... Give someone a fish and they can eat for a day. Teach them to fish and they can eat for a lifetime. Loan them enough to buy a fish and one can then take everything they have. Financial control is the new slavery. "New World Order" is neo-liberalism and Western hegemony (empire) - neo-feudalism.

JǐNán is the provincial capital city of ShanDong province in east China. It is known as the 'City of Springs'. Including BaoTu Park and HongJiaLou ... Aerial views ...