TianHe Lake scenic area, GuiZhou

XiāngGéLǐLā, YunNan province. Wonderful films; awesome videography ...

With Ben Norton ...

Bonus film - chili and soy sauce ...

A reconstruction of the original Summer Palace totally destroyed by imperialist forces (robbed and burnt down by Anglo-French troops in the 2nd Opium War in 1860). With Walk East ...

With Walk East ...

With Sun Kissed Bucket List ... Lijiang Visitor Guide Lijiang, in northwest Yunnan Province, is one of China's most scenic and culturally rich towns. Famous for its ancient town, UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and the surrounding natural beauty, Lijiang offers travelers a mix of historical exploration and outdoor adventure. The town is home to the Naxi ethnic group and features cobblestone streets, flowing canals, and traditional wooden houses, making it a must-visit destination. Overview Location: Lijiang is located in Yunnan Province, about 150 kilometers from Dali and 500 kilometers from Kunming. Famous For: Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Naxi culture, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Getting There From Kunming: You can fly directly to Lijiang Sanyi Airport (1-hour flight) or take an overnight train (8-9 hours). From Dali: A bus or train ride from Dali to Lijiang takes about 2-3 hours. Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit Lijiang are from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and dry. Top Attractions in Lijiang Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Ancient Town): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang Old Town is known for its well-preserved ancient buildings, narrow stone streets, and vibrant Naxi culture. You’ll find traditional wooden houses, small canals flowing through the town, and plenty of small shops and restaurants. Mu's Residence (Mu Fu): This grand residence was the home of the Mu family, who ruled Lijiang for centuries. The residence is a fine example of Ming Dynasty architecture combined with Naxi design. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Old Town. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan): A towering mountain range just outside Lijiang, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is perfect for hiking, cable car rides, and stunning glacier views. The mountain is sacred to the Naxi people and a symbol of their culture. Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan Park): Located just outside Lijiang Old Town, this park offers a peaceful retreat with a beautiful view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in the lake. It's a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. Shuhe Ancient Town: A smaller, quieter ancient town about 4 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town. Shuhe offers a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, featuring similar architecture and charm. Cultural Experiences Naxi Culture: Lijiang is home to the Naxi ethnic group, who have a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Dongba Cultural Museum to learn about the Naxi language, religion, and customs. You can also witness traditional Naxi music performances at various venues around town. Naxi Ancient Music: This unique musical form dates back to the Tang and Song dynasties. A performance of Naxi ancient music is a great way to experience the traditional sounds of the region, often accompanied by cultural storytelling. Local Delicacies Lijiang Baba (丽江粑粑): A thick, crispy pancake made with wheat flour and stuffed with either savory or sweet fillings. This local snack can be found in street markets and small restaurants throughout Lijiang. Sanyue Rice Noodles (三月丽江米线): A popular rice noodle dish typically served with a spicy broth, pork or beef, and fresh herbs. Naxi BBQ: Grilled meats and vegetables, served with local spices and dipping sauces. It’s a common street food, especially in Shuhe Ancient Town. Butter Tea (酥油茶): A staple among the Naxi and Tibetan people in the region, butter tea is a rich, savory drink made from tea leaves, yak butter, and salt. Rose Petal Cake (玫瑰饼, méiguī bǐng): Similar to XiZhou, Lijiang also features the famous rose petal cake. It's a delicately sweet pastry filled with locally sourced rose jam, and it's a popular souvenir for visitors. Where to Stay Local Guesthouses: Lijiang has many family-run guesthouses located within the Old Town, offering traditional architecture and a cozy atmosphere. These are ideal for an authentic cultural experience. Boutique Hotels: For a more luxurious stay, boutique hotels with modern amenities are also available, often featuring beautiful views of the mountains or the Old Town. Tips for Visitors Language: Mandarin Chinese is spoken by most people, but the local Naxi dialect is also common. English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to have a translation app or basic Mandarin phrases. Respect Local Customs: When visiting religious sites or interacting with locals, be respectful of their customs. Dress modestly, especially when entering temples or Naxi family homes. Shopping: Lijiang is known for its handcrafted silverware, Naxi embroidery, and traditional wood carvings. Support local artisans by purchasing souvenirs from the local shops or markets. Nearby Attractions Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge is a popular trekking destination about 60 kilometers from Lijiang. The hike offers dramatic views of the gorge and the Jinsha River below. Baisha Village: An ancient Naxi village about 10 kilometers from Lijiang. It’s famous for its ancient murals, which depict scenes from Naxi mythology and daily life. The village is much quieter than Lijiang, making it a peaceful side trip. Conclusion Lijiang is a destination that seamlessly blends cultural heritage with breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the ancient streets of Lijiang Old Town, hiking the trails of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, or learning about the unique Naxi culture, Lijiang offers something for every traveler. Plan your visit carefully to experience the best of both worlds—ancient history and outdoor adventure.

A UNESCO World Heritage site. The first Buddhist temple in China was built here in SiChuan province during the 1st century A.D. in the beautiful surroundings of the Mount Emei and in view of its peak. Over the centuries, the addition of other temples turned the area into one of Buddhism's holiest. The most remarkable - the Giant Buddha at LeShan - was carved out of a hillside in the 8th century and looks down on the confluence of three rivers. At 71 meters in height, it is the largest Buddha in the world.

US history includes the Native American genocide, slavery, and has continued with involvement in 147 conflicts since World War 2 (when the US tested its atomic weapons on civilians), including Vietnam, Korea, Iraq, Afghanistan, and many more. The US has held the world hostage for many decades and sought supremacy (hegemony) by keeping all others down and under its control, to just be used. This, of course, is the policy of the US elite, who control all the political parties to the detriment of the American people as much as the world's population. With Jerry's Take on China ...

With GoYvon ... LongQing Xia (龙庆峡) Visitor Guide - BeiJing Overview LongQing Xia, also known as the LongQing Gorge or Dragon Celebration Gorge, is a stunning scenic area located in the YanQing District of BeiJing, China. Famous for its breathtaking natural scenery, clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, LongQing Xia is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Getting There Location: YanQing District, BeiJing, China. Public Transport: By Bus: Take Bus 919 or 880 from Deshengmen Bus Station to YanQing. From YanQing, transfer to Bus 875 to LongQing Xia. By Train: Take the S2 train from Huangtudian Railway Station to YanQing Station. From there, take a taxi or local bus to LongQing Xia. Opening Hours April to October: 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM November to March: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Tickets Entrance Fee: ¥40 Boat Ride: ¥100 (optional) Discounted Ticket (for children, students, and seniors): ¥20 Main Attractions LongQing Xia offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore: Ice Lantern Festival: Held every winter, the festival features beautiful ice sculptures and colorful lanterns, creating a magical winter wonderland. LongQing Gorge: The main attraction, this gorge offers stunning views of the cliffs and clear waters, best experienced by boat. Bailong Cave: A cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, offering a cool retreat during the summer months. Jiguanshan Great Wall: A lesser-known section of the Great Wall, offering a historical and scenic hike. Rainbow Bridge: A picturesque bridge offering great photo opportunities and scenic views of the gorge. Activities Visitors can engage in various activities at LongQing Xia: Boat Rides: Take a boat ride through the gorge to fully appreciate the stunning scenery. Bungee Jumping: For the adventurous, there is a bungee jumping platform offering a thrilling experience. Hiking: Explore the trails around the gorge and the Great Wall for a more active visit. Photography: Capture the beautiful landscapes and unique features of the area. Ice Sculptures (winter): Visit during the winter months to see the incredible ice sculptures of the Ice Lantern Festival. Dining and Refreshments Several restaurants and snack stalls are available around LongQing Xia, offering a variety of Chinese cuisine and refreshments. It is also advisable to bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan on hiking or exploring for an extended period. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Winter is also popular for the Ice Lantern Festival. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The area has many trails and uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking. Prepare for Weather: Bring a raincoat or umbrella during the rainy season, and dress in layers for temperature changes. Respect Nature: Follow park rules, stay on designated paths, and do not disturb the wildlife. Nearby Attractions Badaling Great Wall: One of the most famous sections of the Great Wall, located nearby and offering a great historical experience. Yudu Mountain: A beautiful mountain area offering hiking trails and stunning views. Kangxi Grassland: A vast grassland ideal for horse riding, picnicking, and enjoying the natural scenery. Conclusion LongQing Xia (龙庆峡) in BeiJing is a breathtaking natural destination that offers a mix of stunning landscapes, adventurous activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, LongQing Xia provides an unforgettable experience.