Tiger Leaping Gorge 虎跳峡 – the 28 bends …

With Char 787 ... With Nick in China ... Visitor Guide: Mount Qingcheng & Dujiangyan Introduction Mount Qingcheng (青城山) and Dujiangyan (都江堰) are two of Sichuan's most famous cultural and natural landmarks. Located near Chengdu, they offer a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, ancient engineering marvels, and deep-rooted Taoist traditions. This guide will help you explore these sites and understand their spiritual significance. Note: Both Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognized for their cultural and historical importance. Mount Qingcheng (青城山) What to See Shangqing Palace (上清宫): One of the most important Taoist temples on the mountain, Shangqing Palace is a serene place for reflection and meditation. It offers insights into Taoist practices and is surrounded by lush greenery. Tianshi Cave (天师洞): This cave is said to be where Zhang Daoling, the founder of the Way of the Celestial Masters, practiced Taoism. It is a sacred site for Taoist pilgrims. Jianfu Palace (建福宫): A quieter spot on the mountain, Jianfu Palace is perfect for those looking to experience the peacefulness of Taoism in a more secluded environment. Natural Scenery: Mount Qingcheng is known for its dense forests, tranquil pathways, and beautiful mountain views, embodying the Taoist principle of harmony with nature. Activities Hiking: Explore the mountain's many trails, which vary in difficulty. The trails wind through ancient temples, caves, and pavilions, offering both spiritual and physical rejuvenation. Meditation and Tai Chi: Engage in meditation or Tai Chi sessions at various temples, guided by local Taoist practitioners. This is a great way to connect with the spiritual atmosphere of the mountain. Photography: Capture the natural beauty of the mountain, with its misty peaks and verdant landscapes, which are often compared to a classical Chinese painting. Visitor Information Location: About 65 kilometers (40 miles) west of Chengdu. Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the best weather for hiking and sightseeing. How to Get There: You can take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Qingchengshan Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the mountain. Dujiangyan (都江堰) What to See Yuzui (鱼嘴): The "Fish Mouth" is the central part of the Dujiangyan irrigation system, where the Min River is split into two channels. It is a marvel of ancient engineering that showcases the Taoist principle of working in harmony with nature. Baopingkou (宝瓶口): This "Bottle-Neck Channel" regulates water flow into the irrigation system, another example of the Taoist-inspired design that emphasizes balance and non-interference. Erwang Temple (二王庙): A temple dedicated to Li Bing and his son, the architects of Dujiangyan. The temple is a place of worship and offers great views of the irrigation system and surrounding mountains. Activities Walking Tours: Explore the ancient irrigation system on foot, with guided tours available to explain the history and engineering behind Dujiangyan. Temple Visits: Participate in traditional ceremonies at Erwang Temple, where you can learn about the spiritual significance of water in Taoism. Boat Rides: Take a boat ride on the Min River to experience the irrigation system from a different perspective and enjoy the scenic views. Visitor Information Location: Approximately 56 kilometers (35 miles) northwest of Chengdu. Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily. Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. How to Get There: Buses and trains run regularly from Chengdu to Dujiangyan City. From there, local transportation can take you directly to the site. Tips for Visitors Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking and walking. The weather can change quickly, so bring a light jacket. Respect the Culture: When visiting temples, be respectful of religious practices. Quiet reflection is encouraged, and photography may be restricted in certain areas. Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially during the warmer months. There are also small vendors selling drinks and snacks along the trails. Consider a Guided Tour: Hiring a guide can enhance your experience by providing detailed information about the historical and cultural significance of the sites. Contact Information Mount Qingcheng Visitor Center: +86 28 87288101 Dujiangyan Visitor Center: +86 28 87136100 Tourist Information Hotline: 12301 (China National Tourism Administration)

Bonus film - new outfit for 200 yuan ...

Eight Buddhist temples on a slope of the Western Hills, nearby XiangShan park (Fragrant Hills Park).

Modern City Life Tour of China Week 1-2: Shanghai and Surroundings Explore the modern skyline of Shanghai, including the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Shanghai Tower. Visit modern art galleries like the Power Station of Art and M50 Creative Park. Experience Shanghai's vibrant nightlife and dining scene. Day trip to Suzhou to explore its classical gardens and water towns. Visit Hangzhou to see the West Lake and experience tea culture. Week 3: Beijing Explore Beijing's modern architecture, such as the CCTV Headquarters and National Stadium (Bird's Nest). Visit contemporary art districts like 798 Art Zone. Explore modern shopping streets like Wangfujing and Sanlitun. Experience Beijing's nightlife and entertainment scene. Week 4: Hong Kong and Macau Experience the bustling streets of Hong Kong and enjoy its modern attractions like Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Disneyland. Explore the modern skyscrapers and entertainment complexes of Macau, including casinos and luxury resorts. Relax on the beaches of Lantau Island or explore the hiking trails of the New Territories.

On Myanmar - with The New Atlas ... On Venezuela, Nicaragua, Bolivia and Cuba - with the Moderate Rebels ... On Central America, Biden ... On Australia - with Geopolitics In Conflict... On XinJiang and the Uyghurs - with Pivot to Peace / Professor Ken Hammond ... On Hong Kong ... On Julian Assange ... On the post-western world - with Martin Jacques ... With YChina re the New York Times ... With Daniel Dumbrill ...

With Walk For You ...

With The Hutchinsons ...