The Wild Goose Pagoda fountains at night, Xi’An 西安

FèngHuáng (Phoenix) ancient town, lies 'close' (about 140 kilometers) to the ZhangJiaJie Nature Reserve. The town retains much of its ancient architecture and culture. Legend tells that two of the mythical phoenix birds flew over the town and were so in awe at its beauty that they remained hovering there for a long time, being reluctant to leave and lose the view. FengHuang is home to several minority ethnic groups, mainly the Miao (苗) and TuJia (土家). Batik and tie-dye are very popular here and the Miao and TuJia have their own ways to produce the cloth with unique folk patterns. Traditional crafts also include embroidery (TuJia), silverware (Miao), 'paper cuts' and ginger candy. DiaoJiaoLou (吊脚楼) is the traditional dwelling of the TuJia, Miao and some other minorities. DiaoJiaoLou can be translated literally into English as "feet-hanging building" which means a building built with its base hanging in the air instead of locating on the ground. The houses lining the river display a strong Miao ethnic style with the front part facing the old official road and the rear part hanging over the Tuo River.

漫山遍野的野菊花 真惹人喜歡，摘回來做成小米菊花粥和菊花茶

Western 'freedom' is a system where the majority will be poor, to pay for spreading that 'freedom' worldwide. Bonus film : War is Peace - with Neutrality Studies ...

This outstanding, feature length documentary follows travelers taking six different routes to Tibet - via SiChuan, QingHai, XinJiang, YunNan and the Himalayas. Very beautiful ...

Starting with 'Listen', 'Feeling Good', 'At Last' and 'Something's got a hold on me'. Plus 'Price tag', 'Time to say goodbye', '(Does that make me) Crazy', 'She's gone' and 'What a wonderful world', plus some classic Chinese songs. Not to be missed ... "It wasn't because I didn't know that much ... It was just I knew TOO much ... Does that make me crazy ... ??"

Just north of the Birds Nest lies a huge park. Don't forget to visit here this coming summer ...

With Beijing Old Liu ... The place often referred to as the "Forbidden City" in Guiyang is QingYan Ancient Town (青岩古镇). QingYan Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical site located in the southern part of Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province. The town was originally built in 1378 during the Ming Dynasty and has since retained its ancient architectural charm and cultural heritage. Its nickname, "Forbidden City of Guiyang," stems from its historical significance and its traditional Chinese architecture reminiscent of the famed Forbidden City in Beijing. QingYan Ancient Town Visitor Guide Overview QingYan Ancient Town, located in GuiYang, GuiZhou province, is one of China's most well-preserved historical towns. Founded in 1378 during the Ming Dynasty, this ancient town is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning traditional Chinese architecture. Visitors can explore a myriad of ancient buildings, temples, and stone-paved streets that tell the story of QingYan's storied past. History QingYan Ancient Town was established as a military fortress during the Ming Dynasty. Its strategic location and robust defense structures helped it become an important cultural and commercial center over the centuries. The town's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a blend of Han, Miao, and Dong ethnic styles, and well-preserved buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Main Attractions Ancient City Wall The ancient city wall of QingYan is one of its most iconic features. Built with large, sturdy stones, the wall has four gates facing north, south, east, and west, each adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Walking along the wall provides a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. WenChang Pavilion WenChang Pavilion is a beautiful structure dedicated to WenChang, the Taoist god of literature. The pavilion is a popular spot for visitors to appreciate traditional Chinese architecture and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Temple of the Black Dragon The Temple of the Black Dragon is a significant religious site in QingYan Ancient Town. This Taoist temple, with its intricate wood carvings and peaceful ambiance, is dedicated to the Black Dragon, a deity believed to protect the town from floods. Former Residences QingYan Ancient Town is home to several well-preserved residences of notable historical figures. These include the former residence of Zhou Yiqun, a famous scholar, and the home of Zhao Yijiong, a renowned military commander. These residences offer a glimpse into the lives of QingYan's past residents. Culture and Traditions QingYan Ancient Town is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, with a significant influence from the Han, Miao, and Dong ethnic groups. The town hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, and crafts. Visitors can also experience local culinary delights, such as QingYan tofu, rice wine, and other traditional GuiZhou dishes. Activities and Experiences Walking Tours One of the best ways to explore QingYan Ancient Town is on foot. Walking tours allow visitors to wander through the narrow, stone-paved streets, discover hidden courtyards, and take in the historical ambiance of the town. Local Handicrafts QingYan is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including paper-cutting, embroidery, and silverwork. Visitors can watch local artisans at work and purchase unique souvenirs to take home. Food Tasting The town offers a variety of local delicacies that are a must-try for visitors. Sample traditional dishes like QingYan stuffed tofu, rice wine, and various Miao ethnic snacks at local restaurants and street vendors. Accommodation QingYan Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides an authentic experience and a chance to interact with the local community. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit QingYan Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting There: QingYan Ancient Town is located about 29 kilometers from GuiYang city center. It is accessible by bus, taxi, or private car. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the town's history, architecture, and cultural significance. Respect Local Customs: When visiting religious sites and former residences, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Pack Accordingly: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket or umbrella, as the weather can change quickly.

Beautiful Natural Landscapes Tour of China Week 1-2: Southwest China Explore the karst landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo, including Li River cruises and bamboo rafting, GuangXi province. Visit the terraced rice fields of Longji and ethnic minority villages, GuangXi province. Explore the unique rock formations and caves of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, HuNan province. Week 3: Yunnan Province Discover the diverse landscapes of Yunnan, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Three Parallel Rivers and the Dongchuan Red Land. Visit the ancient town of Lijiang and hike Tiger Leaping Gorge. Explore the picturesque scenery of Shangri-La and visit the Songzanlin Monastery. Week 4: Tibet Experience the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Tibet, including the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. Visit Namtso Lake, one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world. Explore the Everest Base Camp and hike in the Himalayas.

With Wei's Travel ...