The Hong Kong Flower Show 香港花卉展

With CN Walking ...

With CGTN Travelogue ... With Blondie in China ... Xiamen Visitor Guide Introduction Xiamen, a coastal city in Fujian Province, is known for its scenic views, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. With its mix of modern urban life and traditional charm, Xiamen offers visitors an unforgettable experience. This guide will provide you with all the essential information to explore Xiamen's beautiful beaches, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. Key Attractions 1. Gulangyu Island Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just a short ferry ride from Xiamen's main city. Known for its colonial architecture, winding streets, and absence of vehicles, Gulangyu offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Highlights include the Piano Museum, Sunlight Rock, and the Shuzhuang Garden. 2. Nanputuo Temple Nanputuo Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China. Located at the foot of Wulaofeng (Five Old Men Peaks), the temple complex includes beautiful halls, statues, and a large lotus pond. Visitors can also hike up the mountain behind the temple for panoramic views of Xiamen. 3. Xiamen University Xiamen University is often considered one of the most beautiful campuses in China. Visitors can explore its lush grounds, see the historic buildings, and walk around the tranquil Furong Lake. The university is located near Nanputuo Temple, making it convenient to visit both in one trip. 4. Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street Zhongshan Road is a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, street food vendors, and historic buildings. It's a great place to experience local life, shop for souvenirs, and taste Xiamen's famous snacks, such as peanut soup and oyster omelets. 5. Hulishan Fortress This coastal defense fortress was built in the late 19th century during the Qing Dynasty. The site includes ancient cannons, barracks, and a small museum detailing Xiamen's military history. Hulishan Fortress offers insights into China's coastal defense history and provides scenic views of the ocean. Cultural Activities Xiamen is a city rich in culture and tradition. Here are some activities to help you experience the local culture: Tea Tasting: Fujian Province is famous for its tea, and Xiamen is a great place to taste high-quality oolong tea. Visit a local tea house or the Xiamen Tea Culture Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. Temple Visits: In addition to Nanputuo Temple, explore other local temples such as the Hongshan Temple and the Tianhou Temple, dedicated to the goddess of the sea, Mazu. Attend a Minnan Opera Performance: Minnan opera, also known as Hokkien opera, is a traditional form of Chinese opera popular in Fujian. Catch a performance to experience this unique cultural expression. Explore Local Markets: Visit markets like the Eighth Market (Ba Jiao Ting Market) to see local produce, seafood, and traditional foods. It's a great way to experience the local lifestyle and cuisine. Dining Options Xiamen is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of local dishes and seafood delicacies. Here are some must-try dining experiences: Seafood: Being a coastal city, Xiamen boasts fresh seafood dishes. Try local specialties like sandworm jelly, steamed mantis shrimp, and crab porridge. Shacha Noodles: This famous noodle dish is made with a unique peanut-based shacha sauce, pork, and various vegetables. It is a staple of Xiamen's street food scene. Spring Rolls: Xiamen-style spring rolls are a popular snack. They are filled with a mix of vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood, wrapped in thin dough and fried to a crispy perfection. Local Snacks: Don't miss out on trying local snacks like peanut soup, oyster omelet, and rice dumplings (zongzi). You can find these at street food stalls and markets. Dim Sum: For a more formal dining experience, visit a local dim sum restaurant to enjoy a variety of steamed buns, dumplings, and other small dishes. Shopping Xiamen offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from modern malls to traditional markets: SM City Xiamen: This large shopping mall is one of the most popular in Xiamen, offering international brands, local shops, and a variety of dining options. Zhongshan Road: A pedestrian street known for its local boutiques, souvenir shops, and street food. It's a great place to buy local crafts, tea, and snacks. Shapowei Art Zone: A trendy area with art galleries, coffee shops, and boutique stores. It's an excellent spot for unique gifts and handmade items. Wuyuanwan Wetland Park Market: Visit this market for fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods. It's a perfect spot for those looking to experience local life and purchase fresh food. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Xiamen is from October to December when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. Spring (March to May) is also a good time, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Getting Around: Xiamen is well-connected by public transportation, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. Biking is also a popular way to explore the city, especially along the scenic coastline. Language: Mandarin is the primary language spoken in Xiamen, though many people understand basic English, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases or using a translation app can be helpful. Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially when shopping at local markets and street vendors. Respect Local Customs: Xiamen is a culturally rich city with many religious sites. Be respectful when visiting temples and other religious places. Dress modestly, especially when entering temples, and follow any rules regarding photography. Safety: Xiamen is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and markets.

Overview ChengDu (成都) is the capital city of SiChuan province in south-west China. Known for its spicy cuisine, relaxed lifestyle, and panda conservation centers, Chengdu offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Top Attractions Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地) - Chéngdū Dàxióngmāo Fányù Yánjiū Jīdì Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街) - Jǐnlǐ Gǔjiē Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) - Wǔhóu Cí Qingcheng Mountain (青城山) - Qīngchéng Shān Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰) - Dūjiāngyàn Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Alley) (宽窄巷子) - Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi Sichuan Opera and Face Changing Show (川剧变脸) - Chuānjù Biànliǎn Chengdu People's Park (成都人民公园) - Chéngdū Rénmín Gōngyuán Chunxi Road (春熙路) - Chūnxī Lù Song Xian Qiao Antique Market (宋庆龄故居松仙桥古玩市场) - Sòng Qìnglíng Gùjū Sōngxiānqiáo Gǔwàn Shìchǎng Wenshu Monastery (文殊院) - Wénshū Yuàn Mt. Emei (峨眉山) - Éméi Shān (Day trip from Chengdu) Tianfu New Area (天府新区) - Tiānfǔ Xīn Qū Anshun Bridge Night Market (安顺廊桥夜市) - Ānshùn Lángqiáo Yèshì Chengdu Culture Park (成都文化公园) - Chéngdū Wénhuà Gōngyuán Chengdu Panda Asian Food Festival (成都国际熊猫美食节) - Chéngdū Guójì Xióngmāo Měishí Jié Chengdu Botanical Garden (成都植物园) - Chéngdū Zhíwùyuán Sichuan Science and Technology Museum (四川科技馆) - Sìchuān Kējìguǎn Chengdu Tianfu Square (成都天府广场) - Chéngdū Tiānfǔ Guǎngchǎng Dufu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂) - Dùfǔ Cǎotáng Huanglongxi Ancient Town (黄龙溪古镇) - Huánglóngxī Gǔzhèn Sichuan University (四川大学) - Sìchuān Dàxué Sanxingdui Museum (三星堆博物馆) - Sānxīngduī Bówùguǎn Daci Temple (大慈寺) - Dàcí Sì Luodai Ancient Town (洛带古镇) - Luòdài Gǔzhèn Chengdu Sports Center (成都市体育中心) - Chéngdū Shì Tǐyù Zhōngxīn Chengdu Eastern Music Park (成都东部音乐公园) - Chéngdū Dōngbù Yīnyuè Gōngyuán Huanhuaxi Park (浣花溪公园) - Huànhuāxī Gōngyuán Qintai Road Historic District (琴台路历史文化街区) - Qíntái Lù Lìshǐ Wénhuà Jiēqū Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷) - Chéngdū Huānlègǔ Huaxi Music Fountain (花溪音乐喷泉) - Huāxī Yīnyuè Pēnquán Hejiang Pavilion (合江亭) - Héjiāng Tíng Chengdu Radio and TV Tower (成都电视塔) - Chéngdū Diànshì Tǎ Wolong National Nature Reserve (卧龙国家级自然保护区) - Wòlóng Guójiā Jí Zìrán Bǎohùqū Mt. Qingcheng-Dujiangyan Scenic Area (青城山-都江堰风景区) - Qīngchéng Shān-Dūjiāngyàn Fēngjǐng Qū Chengdu Tianfu Greenway (成都天府绿道) - Chéngdū Tiānfǔ Lǜdào Chengdu Haichang Polar Ocean Park (成都海昌极地海洋公园) - Chéngdū Hǎichāng Jídì Hǎiyáng Gōngyuán Dining Experiences Hot Pot (火锅) - Huǒguō Sichuan Cuisine (川菜) - Chuāncài Tea Houses (茶馆) - Cháguǎn Huangcheng Laoma (Old Master Huang's Restaurant) (黄城老妈) - Huángchéng Lǎomā Yulin Life Plaza Food Street (玉林生活广场美食街) - Yùlín Shēnghuó Guǎngchǎng Měishí Jiē Long Chaoshou Restaurant (Dragon's Wonton Restaurant) (龙抄手) - Lóng Chāoshǒu Shopping and Entertainment Chunxi Road Shopping District (春熙路购物区) - Chūnxī Lù Gòuwù Qū Taikoo Li (太古里) - Tàigǔlǐ IFS (International Finance Square) (国际金融中心) - Guójì Jīnróng Zhōngxīn Sichuan Opera and Tea Culture Show (川剧茶艺表演) - Chuānjù Cháyì Biǎoyǎn Chengdu Global Center (成都环球中心) - Chéngdū Huánqiú Zhōngxīn Chengdu IFS Ice Fountain (IFS冰雪奇缘) - IFS Bīngxuě Qíyuán Chengdu New Century Global Center (成都世纪环球中心) - Chéngdū Shìjì Huánqiú Zhōngxīn Tianfu New Area (天府新区) - Tiānfǔ Xīn Qū Nightlife and Entertainment Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Alley) (宽窄巷子) - Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi Jiuyanqiao Bar Street (九眼桥酒吧街) - Jiǔyǎnqiáo Jiǔbā Jiē Lan Kwai Fong Chengdu (成都兰桂坊) - Chéngdū Lánguìfāng Heming Teahouse (Hemingway Bar) (海明茶馆) - Hǎimíng Cháguǎn Chengdu Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li (成都远洋太古里) - Chéngdū Yuǎnyáng Tàigǔlǐ Practical Tips Transportation: Use the Chengdu metro system, buses, or taxis for getting around. Language: Mandarin is the primary language; learn some basic phrases. Weather: Chengdu has a mild climate, but prepare for occasional rain, especially in summer. Currency: Use local currency (Renminbi). Panda Visits: Plan your visit to the panda base early in the morning for the best panda viewing. Respect Local Customs: Embrace the laid-back lifestyle and tea culture of Chengdu. Hidden Gems Leshan Giant Buddha (乐山大佛) - Lèshān Dàfó (Day trip from Chengdu) Mount Qingcheng (青城山) - Qīngchéng Shān (Day trip from Chengdu) Luodai Ancient Town (洛带古镇) - Luòdài Gǔzhèn Wolong National Nature Reserve (卧龙国家级自然保护区) - Wòlóng Guójiā Jí Zìrán Bǎohùqū Chengdu Tianfu Greenway (成都天府绿道) - Chéngdū Tiānfǔ Lǜdào Chengdu Haichang Polar Ocean Park (成都海昌极地海洋公园) - Chéngdū Hǎichāng Jídì Hǎiyáng Gōngyuán Chengdu Anren Ancient Town (成都安仁古镇) - Chéngdū Ānrén Gǔzhèn Chengdu Wuhou Shrine Music and Dance Show (武侯祠音乐舞蹈表演) - Wǔhóu Cí Yīnyuè Wǔdǎo Biǎoyǎn Mount Siguniang (Four Sisters Mountain) (四姑娘山) - Sìgūniáng Shān (Multi-day excursion from Chengdu) Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷) - Chéngdū Huānlègǔ Huanglongxi Ancient Town (黄龙溪古镇) - Huánglóngxī Gǔzhèn Sanxingdui Museum (三星堆博物馆) - Sānxīngduī Bówùguǎn Dujiangyan Panda Base (都江堰熊猫基地) - Dūjiāngyàn Xióngmāo Jīdì Chengdu Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum (成都杜甫草堂博物馆) - Chéngdū Dùfǔ Cǎotáng Bówùguǎn Chengdu Lixiang Park (成都荔香公园) - Chéngdū Lìxiāng Gōngyuán Chengdu Yongling Mausoleum (成都永陵) - Chéngdū Yǒnglíng Chengdu Aircraft Carrier Theme Park (成都航空母舰主题公园) - Chéngdū Hángkōng Mǔjiàn Zhǔtí Gōngyuán Chengdu Happy Water World (成都欢乐水世界) - Chéngdū Huānlè Shuǐ Shìjiè Chengdu Confucius Temple (成都文庙) - Chéngdū Wénmiào Chengdu Huanglongxi Film and Television Base (成都黄龙溪影视基地) - Chéngdū Huánglóngxī Yǐngshì Jīdì Chengdu Xiling Snow Mountain (成都西岭雪山) - Chéngdū Xīlǐng Xuěshān Chengdu Sichuan Opera Theater (成都川剧院) - Chéngdū Chuānjù Yuàn Chengdu Bonsai Garden (成都盆景园) - Chéngdū Pénjǐng Yuán Chengdu Nanhu Dreamland (成都南湖梦幻岛) - Chéngdū Nánhú Mènghuàn Dǎo Chengdu Dayi Strawberry Park (成都大邑草莓园) - Chéngdū Dàyì Cǎoméi Yuán Chengdu Dinosaur Museum (成都恐龙博物馆) - Chéngdū Kǒnglóng Bówùguǎn Enjoy exploring Chengdu's rich culture, delicious cuisine, and the adorable giant pandas!

With Valeriy Blank ...

Wonderful landscapes ...

The Yellow Mountain in AnHui province ...