The Stone Forest (ShiLin 石林) in YunNan province

Plus a little Jive. ChengDu, SiChuan province. Excerpts from the selection of the national squad that will go to Beijing for the WDSF World Championship September 2012. Plus, an awesome feel-good dance video from Swing BeiJing. Locations: The Great Wall, the Summer Palace, the “Bird’s Nest” Beijing National Stadium, QianHai – HouHai, the Temple of Heaven, ZhongShan Park and The Place mall. Music：the fantastic Pink Martini – “Wo Yao Ni De Ai 我要你的爱” (I Want You, To Be My Baby) ... Plus, a dance from the China Youth Dance Festival (great song) ... For more dance videos, from classical Chinese dance to contemporary dance, click on the 'dance' tag below.

With Walk East ...

This city lies on a beautiful island in HangZhou Bay. The island is 500square kilometers in size and connected to the mainland by a bridge.

In AnHui province.

一籃秋葵 一桌菜，在配上酸泡果，美味極了 | Chinese food made from green okra | 秋葵 美食 | 野小妹 ...

With Beautiful China ... XiaSi Ancient Town - Dong Village Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of XiaSi Ancient Town XiaSi Ancient Town, located in the Dong Village of GuiZhou Province, is a historic town that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Dong ethnic group. With a history dating back over 800 years, XiaSi is renowned for its traditional Dong architecture, unique drum towers, and wind and rain bridges. The town's preservation of ancient customs and traditions provides a living snapshot of Dong culture that has been passed down through generations. Top Attractions in XiaSi Ancient Town 1. Drum Tower The Drum Tower is the symbol of the Dong people and serves as the heart of the village. It is a traditional wooden structure used for gatherings and ceremonies. The intricate carvings and unique architecture make it a must-see. 2. Wind and Rain Bridge The Wind and Rain Bridge, also known as the Flower Bridge, is an iconic piece of Dong architecture. It serves not only as a bridge but also as a place for villagers to rest and socialize, sheltered from the elements. 3. Dong Opera Stage The open-air Dong Opera Stage is a cultural gem where traditional Dong performances are held. Visitors can experience the rich storytelling and music that characterize Dong opera. 4. Dong Residential Houses Stroll through the village to see the traditional stilted wooden houses of the Dong people. These homes are built using ancient techniques and showcase the unique architectural style of the Dong community. Activities to Enjoy 1. Participate in a Dong Dance Join the locals in a traditional Dong dance. The Dong people are known for their vibrant dance and music, often performed in the village square or around the Drum Tower. 2. Explore Local Handicrafts Visit local workshops to see artisans creating traditional Dong handicrafts, including embroidery, silver jewelry, and wooden carvings. You can also purchase these items as souvenirs. 3. Attend a Dong Wedding Ceremony If you're lucky, you might witness a traditional Dong wedding ceremony. These ceremonies are colorful and vibrant, featuring music, dance, and traditional rituals. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Dong Rice Wine Dong rice wine is a traditional beverage made from glutinous rice. It has a sweet flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. 2. Sour Fish Soup This is a popular dish among the Dong people, made with fresh fish, pickled vegetables, and spices. The soup has a distinctive sour and spicy flavor. 3. Glutinous Rice Cakes Glutinous rice cakes are a traditional snack in Dong cuisine. They are often filled with sweet or savory ingredients and steamed to perfection. How to Get There By Bus From Guiyang, the capital of GuiZhou, you can take a long-distance bus to Liping County, followed by a local bus to XiaSi. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours. By Train Take a train to Kaili, a nearby city in GuiZhou. From Kaili, buses are available to Liping County and then to XiaSi Ancient Town. By Car If you prefer driving, renting a car from Guiyang or Kaili is an option. The roads to XiaSi are scenic but can be narrow and winding, so drive with caution. Travel Tips for XiaSi Ancient Town Learn a few basic phrases in the Dong language to connect better with locals. They appreciate the effort! Respect local customs and traditions, especially during ceremonies and cultural events. Bring comfortable walking shoes as you will be exploring on foot, often on uneven paths. Plan your visit during one of the Dong festivals, such as the Dong New Year, to experience the vibrant local culture.

With Blondie in China ... Visitor Guide to DunHuang, GanSu Province Overview DunHuang, located in GanSu Province, is a city of historical and cultural significance, famous for its strategic position on the ancient Silk Road and its remarkable Buddhist art. The city is best known for the Mogao Caves, a complex of Buddhist cave temples, as well as its stunning desert landscapes and historical relics. Getting There By Air: DunHuang Airport (DNH) is the nearest airport, located about 13 kilometers southeast of the city center. The airport has regular flights from major cities like BeiJing, ShangHai, and Xi'an. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the city center. By Train: DunHuang Railway Station connects the city with various destinations across China. The station is located about 12 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the main attractions. By Bus: Long-distance buses from nearby cities and provinces also provide access to DunHuang. The main bus station is located in the city center, making it convenient for travelers. Getting Around Public Transport: DunHuang has a local bus system that connects major tourist spots and the city center. Buses are an economical way to get around. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ensure to have your destination written in Chinese for ease of communication. Biking: Bike rentals are available for those who prefer a more active way to explore the city and its surroundings. Main Attractions Mogao Caves The Mogao Caves, also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and the highlight of DunHuang. The caves contain thousands of Buddhist statues and murals dating back to the 4th century, showcasing exquisite art and religious devotion. Crescent Lake and Singing Sand Dunes Located about 6 kilometers south of DunHuang, Crescent Lake is an oasis surrounded by the towering Singing Sand Dunes. The contrast of the lush green lake against the golden sand is a sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, and hiking in the area. Yumen Pass (Jade Gate Pass) The Yumen Pass is a historic site that served as a vital checkpoint on the Silk Road. The ruins offer a glimpse into the ancient trade routes and the military significance of the area. Yangguan Pass Yangguan Pass, along with Yumen Pass, was an important gateway on the Silk Road. The site includes remnants of ancient walls and watchtowers, and a museum that provides historical context. Historical Significance DunHuang has a rich history as a major stop on the Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between China and the West. The city's strategic location made it a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and artistic traditions. The Mogao Caves were established as a place of worship and meditation, attracting Buddhist monks and pilgrims. Over the centuries, the caves became a repository of religious art, texts, and artifacts, making them one of the most significant cultural heritage sites in China. Local Cuisine While visiting DunHuang, you can enjoy a variety of local GanSu dishes. Here are some recommendations: Beef Noodles: A signature dish of GanSu Province, featuring hand-pulled noodles in a flavorful beef broth. Yellow Noodles with Donkey Meat: A unique local specialty, featuring tender donkey meat served with yellow wheat noodles. DunHuang Toasted Buns: Crispy buns filled with minced meat and spices, a popular snack in the region. Shopping Shazhou Night Market: A vibrant market offering a variety of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. Silk Road Markets: Several markets in DunHuang sell traditional Silk Road goods, including silk products, jade, and antiques. Local Shops: Numerous shops in the city center offer a range of local specialties, such as dried fruits, nuts, and unique crafts. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: DunHuang offers several high-end hotels with excellent amenities and services, such as the DunHuang Hotel and the Silk Road DunHuang Hotel. Mid-Range Hotels: There are numerous mid-range options providing comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, including international chains and local boutique hotels. Budget Accommodations: Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels throughout the city. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit DunHuang are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. Bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan to spend time outdoors, especially in the desert areas. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious 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: The attractions in DunHuang offer a mix of historical significance and natural beauty. Plan your visit to include both leisurely activities and sightseeing to fully appreciate the area's offerings. Conclusion DunHuang, with its rich history, stunning desert landscapes, and cultural heritage, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're exploring the ancient Mogao Caves, enjoying the serene beauty of Crescent Lake, or delving into the city's Silk Road history, DunHuang promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time in this extraordinary city in GanSu Province.