The Spring Festival Temple Fair in BeiJing 北京

Filmed mostly in Ditan Park, in 2008.


[640],shadow=true,start=,stop=Chinese New Year (CNY), also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China, marking the beginning of the lunar new year. It is celebrated by Chinese communities around the world, as well as in other East Asian countries such as Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia. Here's an overview of Chinese New Year and its traditions:

Timing and Duration:
Lunar Calendar: Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar, with the date falling between late January and mid-February each year. The exact date varies because it is based on the lunar phases.

Festival Period: The celebrations typically last for 15 days, beginning on the eve of Chinese New Year and ending with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the lunar calendar.

Traditions and Customs:
Family Reunions: Chinese New Year is a time for families to come together and celebrate. Many people travel long distances to reunite with their relatives, leading to the largest annual human migration in the world, known as Chunyun.

Cleaning and Decoration: In the days leading up to Chinese New Year, families clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune. They also decorate their homes with red lanterns, couplets (duilian), and paper cutouts featuring auspicious symbols.

Chinese New Year's Eve Dinner: The New Year's Eve dinner, known as 'reunion dinner' (??? tunninfn), is a lavish feast shared with family members. Traditional dishes include fish (symbolizing prosperity), dumplings (symbolizing wealth), and various other symbolic foods.

Red Envelopes (Hongbao): Red envelopes containing money are given as gifts during Chinese New Year, especially to children and unmarried individuals. The red color symbolizes good luck and wards off evil spirits.

Fireworks and Firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are set off at midnight on New Year's Eve and throughout the festival period to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.

Lion and Dragon Dances: Colorful lion and dragon dances are performed in streets, parks, and public squares to bring prosperity and good fortune to communities.

Zodiac Animals:
Each Year is Associated with an Animal: Chinese New Year is symbolized by one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac cycle. Each animal is believed to influence the personality traits and destiny of individuals born in that year.

Travel and Celebrations:
Spring Festival Gala: The Spring Festival Gala, broadcasted on Chinese television on New Year's Eve, features a variety of performances, skits, and musical acts. It is one of the most-watched television programs in the world.

Temple Fairs: Traditional temple fairs are held throughout China during Chinese New Year, offering food stalls, performances, games, and cultural activities for visitors to enjoy.

Chinese New Year is a time of joy, reunion, and renewal, filled with rich traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. It is a celebration of family, community, and the arrival of spring, marking a fresh beginning and the promise of prosperity in the year ahead.

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history, culture, and modernity. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect as a tourist in Beijing:

Historical Landmarks:
The Great Wall of China: One of the most iconic structures in the world, the Great Wall is easily accessible from Beijing. Mutianyu and Badaling sections are popular among tourists.

Forbidden City (Palace Museum): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast imperial palace complex was home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years. It houses numerous halls, courtyards, and historical artifacts.

Temple of Heaven: A masterpiece of Chinese architecture, this ancient temple complex served as a place of worship for emperors to pray for good harvests.

Summer Palace: A stunning ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces, the Summer Palace served as a retreat for emperors during the Qing dynasty.

Tiananmen Square: One of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is flanked by important landmarks such as the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

Cultural Sites:
Beijing Hutongs: Explore the narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard residences of Beijing's historic neighborhoods. You can take a rickshaw tour or simply wander around on foot.

Beijing Opera: Experience traditional Chinese opera performances at venues like the Liyuan Theater or the Chang'an Grand Theatre.

798 Art District: A hub of contemporary art and culture, this former industrial area is now home to numerous galleries, studios, and cafes.

Modern Attractions:
Olympic Park: Visit iconic structures such as the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

CBD (Central Business District): Marvel at the futuristic skyline of Beijing's modern business district, which includes landmarks like the CCTV Headquarters and the China World Trade Center Tower III.

Culinary Delights:
Peking Duck: Indulge in Beijing's most famous dish, crispy roast duck served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.

Street Food: Explore the city's vibrant street food scene and sample local delicacies like jianbing (savory crepes), lamb skewers, and dumplings.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. However, traffic can be heavy, so plan your travels accordingly.

Language: While English is not widely spoken, especially outside tourist areas, many signs and transportation announcements are in English. It's helpful to carry a translation app or a phrasebook.

Weather: Beijing experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. The best times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home and using both hands to pass or receive items.

Beijing offers a rich tapestry of experiences for tourists, blending ancient heritage with modern innovations. Whether you're fascinated by history, culture, or culinary delights, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

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ShenZhen: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Window of the World (世界之窗 Shìjiè Zhī Chuāng): Theme park with replicas of famous landmarks from around the world. Happy Valley (欢乐谷 Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Shenzhen Safari Park (深圳野生动物园 Shēnzhèn Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): Safari park with a variety of animals, shows, and interactive experiences. Sea World (海上世界 Hǎishàng Shìjiè): Waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Shenzhen Children's Palace (深圳市少年宫 Shēnzhèn Shì Shàonián Gōng): Cultural center offering classes, workshops, and performances for children. Fairy Lake Botanical Garden (仙湖植物园 Xiān Hú Zhíwùyuán): Botanical garden with plant collections, walking trails, and scenic landscapes. Shenzhen Splendid China Folk Village (深圳锦绣中华民俗村 Shēnzhèn Jǐnxiù Zhōnghuá Mínsú Cūn): Theme park with exhibits on Chinese culture, history, and traditions. Shenzhen Mangrove Nature Reserve (深圳红树林自然保护区 Shēnzhèn Hóngshùlín Zìrán Bǎohù Qū): Nature reserve with mangrove forests, boardwalks, and birdwatching. Dameisha Beach (大梅沙海滨公园 Dà Méishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán): Beach park with sandy shores, water sports, and seaside attractions. Xiaomeisha Beach (小梅沙海滨公园 Xiǎo Méishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán): Beach park with swimming areas, water slides, and recreational facilities. Shenzhen Lianhuashan Park (深圳莲花山公园 Shēnzhèn Liánhuā Shān Gōngyuán): Park with gardens, temples, and scenic views of the city. Shenzhen Children's Library (深圳市少年儿童图书馆 Shēnzhèn Shì Shàonián Értóng Túshūguǎn): Library with children's books, storytelling sessions, and educational activities. Shenzhen Science Museum (深圳科技馆 Shēnzhèn Kējìguǎn): Museum with interactive exhibits, experiments, and demonstrations on science and technology. Shenzhen Happy Harbor (深圳欢乐港湾 Shēnzhèn Huānlè Gǎngwān): Waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for families. Shenzhen Museum (深圳博物馆 Shēnzhèn Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on Shenzhen's history, culture, and development. Shenzhen International Garden and Flower Expo Park (深圳国际园林花卉博览园 Shēnzhèn Guójì Yuánlín Huāhuì Bólǎn Yuán): Park with botanical gardens, flower displays, and cultural events. Shenzhen Poly Theatre (深圳保利剧院 Shēnzhèn Bǎolì Jùyuàn): Performing arts venue with theater productions, concerts, and shows suitable for families. Shenzhen OCT Harbour (深圳华侨城欢乐港湾 Shēnzhèn Huáqiáochéng Huānlè Gǎngwān): Waterfront area with shopping, dining, and entertainment options overlooking the bay. Shenzhen Guanlan Printmaking Base (深圳观澜版画基地 Shēnzhèn Guānlán Bǎnhuà Jīdì): Art village with printmaking studios, galleries, and workshops. Shenzhen Fairy Lake Botanical Garden (深圳仙湖植物园 Shēnzhèn Xiān Hú Zhíwùyuán): Botanical garden with plant collections, walking trails, and scenic landscapes. ShenZhen: 30 More Places to Visit Shenzhen Window of the World (深圳世界之窗 Shēnzhèn Shìjiè Zhī Chuāng): Theme park with replicas of famous landmarks from around the world. Shenzhen Happy Valley (深圳欢乐谷 Shēnzhèn Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Shenzhen Safari Park (深圳野生动物园 Shēnzhèn Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): Safari park with a variety of animals, shows, and interactive experiences. Shenzhen Sea World (深圳海上世界 Shēnzhèn Hǎishàng Shìjiè): Waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Shenzhen Children's Palace (深圳市少年宫 Shēnzhèn Shì Shàonián Gōng): Cultural center offering classes, workshops, and performances for children. Shenzhen Fairy Lake Botanical Garden (深圳仙湖植物园 Shēnzhèn Xiān Hú Zhíwùyuán): Botanical garden with plant collections, walking trails, and scenic landscapes. Shenzhen Splendid China Folk Village (深圳锦绣中华民俗村 Shēnzhèn Jǐnxiù Zhōnghuá Mínsú Cūn): Theme park with exhibits on Chinese culture, history, and traditions. Shenzhen Mangrove Nature Reserve (深圳红树林自然保护区 Shēnzhèn Hóngshùlín Zìrán Bǎohù Qū): Nature reserve with mangrove forests, boardwalks, and birdwatching. Shenzhen Dameisha Beach (深圳大梅沙海滨公园 Shēnzhèn Dà Méishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán): Beach park with sandy shores, water sports, and seaside attractions. Shenzhen Xiaomeisha Beach (深圳小梅沙海滨公园 Shēnzhèn Xiǎo Méishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán): Beach park with swimming areas, water slides, and recreational facilities. Shenzhen Lianhuashan Park (深圳莲花山公园 Shēnzhèn Liánhuā Shān Gōngyuán): Park with gardens, temples, and scenic views of the city. Shenzhen Children's Library (深圳市少年儿童图书馆 Shēnzhèn Shì Shàonián Értóng Túshūguǎn): Library with children's books, storytelling sessions, and educational activities. Shenzhen Science Museum (深圳科技馆 Shēnzhèn Kējìguǎn): Museum with interactive exhibits, experiments, and demonstrations on science and technology. Shenzhen Happy Harbor (深圳欢乐港湾 Shēnzhèn Huānlè Gǎngwān): Waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for families. Shenzhen Museum (深圳博物馆 Shēnzhèn Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on Shenzhen's history, culture, and development. Shenzhen International Garden and Flower Expo Park (深圳国际园林花卉博览园 Shēnzhèn Guójì Yuánlín Huāhuì Bólǎn Yuán): Park with botanical gardens, flower displays, and cultural events. Shenzhen Poly Theatre (深圳保利剧院 Shēnzhèn Bǎolì Jùyuàn): Performing arts venue with theater productions, concerts, and shows suitable for families. Shenzhen OCT Harbour (深圳华侨城欢乐港湾 Shēnzhèn Huáqiáochéng Huānlè Gǎngwān): Waterfront area with shopping, dining, and entertainment options overlooking the bay. Shenzhen Guanlan Printmaking Base (深圳观澜版画基地 Shēnzhèn Guānlán Bǎnhuà Jīdì): Art village with printmaking studios, galleries, and workshops. Shenzhen Fairy Lake Botanical Garden (深圳仙湖植物园 Shēnzhèn Xiān Hú Zhíwùyuán): Botanical garden with plant collections, walking trails, and scenic landscapes. Shenzhen Window of the World (深圳世界之窗 Shēnzhèn Shìjiè Zhī Chuāng): Theme park with replicas of famous landmarks from around the world. Shenzhen Happy Valley (深圳欢乐谷 Shēnzhèn Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Shenzhen Safari Park (深圳野生动物园 Shēnzhèn Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): Safari park with a variety of animals, shows, and interactive experiences. Shenzhen Sea World (深圳海上世界 Shēnzhèn Hǎishàng Shìjiè): Waterfront area with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Shenzhen Children's Palace (深圳市少年宫 Shēnzhèn Shì Shàonián Gōng): Cultural center offering classes, workshops, and performances for children. Shenzhen Fairy Lake Botanical Garden (深圳仙湖植物园 Shēnzhèn Xiān Hú Zhíwùyuán): Botanical garden with plant collections, walking trails, and scenic landscapes. Shenzhen Splendid China Folk Village (深圳锦绣中华民俗村 Shēnzhèn Jǐnxiù Zhōnghuá Mínsú Cūn): Theme park with exhibits on Chinese culture, history, and traditions. Shenzhen Mangrove Nature Reserve (深圳红树林自然保护区 Shēnzhèn Hóngshùlín Zìrán Bǎohù Qū): Nature reserve with mangrove forests, boardwalks, and birdwatching.
A trip to KunMing, ‘Spring City’, capital of YunNan province
With Feeding Foca ... Welcome to KunMing: The Spring City KunMing, the capital of YunNan province, is known for its pleasant climate, rich history, and stunning natural scenery. This guide will help you explore the best of what KunMing has to offer. Top Attractions in KunMing Stone Forest (Shilin) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stone Forest is a remarkable natural wonder featuring towering limestone formations. It's located about 90 kilometers from KunMing and is a must-visit for nature lovers. Dianchi Lake Dianchi Lake, also known as KunMing Lake, is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan. Visitors can enjoy boating, walking along the lakeside, and visiting nearby temples. Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park) Located in the heart of KunMing, Green Lake Park is a peaceful retreat with beautiful lotus ponds, pavilions, and walking paths. It's a great spot for relaxation and people-watching. Yuantong Temple Yuantong Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in KunMing, dating back over 1,200 years. The temple features a unique layout with a large pond in the center and beautiful architecture. Local Cuisine KunMing is famous for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes: Crossing the Bridge Noodles (Guo Qiao Mi Xian) A traditional Yunnan dish consisting of a bowl of hot broth, rice noodles, and various toppings like meat, vegetables, and herbs. The dish is served with the ingredients separate, allowing you to mix them as you like. Steam Pot Chicken (Qi Guo Ji) This dish is cooked in a unique clay pot that traps steam, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken. It's often served with medicinal herbs for added health benefits. Yunnan Rice Cakes (Er Kuai) These chewy rice cakes are a staple in Yunnan cuisine. They can be stir-fried, grilled, or served in soups. Transportation KunMing is well-connected and easy to navigate. Here are some transportation options: KunMing Changshui International Airport The airport is located about 25 kilometers from the city center and offers domestic and international flights. Taxis and airport shuttles are available for transportation to the city. Public Buses KunMing has an extensive public bus network that covers most of the city. Buses are affordable and a convenient way to get around. Metro KunMing's metro system is modern and efficient, with several lines connecting key areas of the city. It's a great option for avoiding traffic. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Taxis are widely available, and ride-hailing apps are popular in KunMing. They offer a convenient way to travel, especially for shorter distances. Best Time to Visit KunMing is known as the "Spring City" due to its mild climate year-round. However, the best time to visit is from March to October, when the weather is most pleasant and the flowers are in full bloom. Tips for Visitors Wear comfortable shoes, as many attractions involve walking or hiking. Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong, especially at higher altitudes. Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases, as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Enjoy your trip to KunMing!

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