Traditional Chinese style oiled paper and bamboo umbrella

With lots and lots of street food : ) Sun Kissed Bucket List ...

FengHuang, 凤凰古城, HuNan province, central China. 'Fenghuang', Chinese for 'Phoenix', the mythical bird of good omen and longevity that is consumed by fire only to rise again from the flames, is named after a legend that two of these fabulous birds flew over and found the town so beautiful that they hovered there, reluctant to leave. Step back in time, over a thousand years ...

With Beijing Old Liu ... MangShan WuZhiFeng Scenic Area visitor guide Overview The MangShan WuZhiFeng Scenic Area, located in the MangShan National Forest Park in HuNan Province, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and the iconic WuZhiFeng (Five-Finger Peak). It is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Getting There Location: YiZhang County, ChenZhou City, HuNan Province, China. Public Transport: By Bus: Regular buses run from ChenZhou City to YiZhang County. From YiZhang, you can take a local bus or taxi to the MangShan National Forest Park. By Train: The nearest major railway station is in ChenZhou City. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the park. Opening Hours April to October: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM November to March: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM Tickets Entrance Fee: ¥100 Discounted Ticket (for children, students, and seniors): ¥50 Main Attractions The MangShan WuZhiFeng Scenic Area is home to a variety of attractions: WuZhiFeng (Five-Finger Peak): This iconic peak resembles five fingers rising from the mountain, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes. YunLong Waterfall: A magnificent waterfall cascading down a cliff, surrounded by lush vegetation. MangShan Temple: A historic temple located within the forest park, providing a serene atmosphere and cultural insights. Botanical Gardens: Home to a diverse range of plant species, including rare and endangered ones, making it a paradise for botany enthusiasts. Observation Decks: Various viewpoints throughout the park offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Activities Visitors can engage in numerous activities at the MangShan WuZhiFeng Scenic Area: Hiking: Explore the various trails that lead to scenic spots and peaks. Bird Watching: The park is home to many bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watchers. Photography: Capture the stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. Camping: There are designated camping areas for those who want to experience the beauty of the park overnight. Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn more about the park's history, ecology, and cultural significance. Dining and Refreshments Several small restaurants and snack stalls are available within and around the MangShan National Forest Park, offering local HuNan cuisine and refreshments. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan on hiking. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The park has many trails and uneven terrain, so comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially during long hikes. 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 DongJiang Lake: A beautiful lake located in ZiXing City, perfect for boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenic views. WuLingYuan Scenic Area: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic sandstone pillars and breathtaking landscapes. LangShan Mountain: Known for its unique Danxia landforms, it's a great place for hiking and exploring natural rock formations. Conclusion The MangShan WuZhiFeng Scenic Area in HuNan is a stunning natural destination offering a mix of beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural sites. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the scenic area provides an unforgettable experience.

With Alan Watts ...

Flashback Thursday. 2011. With youkiame ...

Eight hundred years ago, Marco Polo described HangZhou as the most enchanting place on Earth. West Lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adjacent to the West Lake is a scenic area that includes historical pagodas and other cultural sites, blended with the natural beauty of the landscape, including Phoenix Mountain. The lake is crossed by two causeways. Check out this beautiful city, two hours from Shanghai, the famous West Lake and the wonderful show 'Impression West Lake' ...

The beautiful blue-sky city ...

Near SiMaTai Great Wall ... SiMaTai Great Wall night walk ...

Beijing: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit The Forbidden City (紫禁城 Zǐjìnchéng): Explore the ancient imperial palace complex and its vast courtyards. The Great Wall of China (长城 Chángchéng): Take a family hike along this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beijing Zoo (北京动物园 Běijīng Dòngwùyuán): Visit pandas and other animals at one of China's oldest and largest zoos. Beihai Park (北海公园 Běihǎi Gōngyuán): Enjoy boating on the lake and exploring the gardens and pavilions. 798 Art District (798艺术区 Qījiǔbā Yìshùqū): Discover contemporary art in this former factory complex turned art district. Beijing Aquarium (北京海洋馆 Běijīng Hǎiyánguǎn): Explore the underwater world with a variety of marine life exhibits. Beijing Children's Museum (北京儿童博物馆 Běijīng Értóng Bówùguǎn): Interactive museum featuring exhibits designed for children. Summer Palace (颐和园 Yíhé Yuán): Stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy boat rides on Kunming Lake. Happy Valley Beijing (欢乐谷 Huānlègǔ Běijīng): Amusement park with rides and entertainment for the whole family. Beijing Botanical Garden (北京植物园 Běijīng Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy outdoor activities. Temple of Heaven Park (天坛公园 Tiāntán Gōngyuán): Watch locals practice tai chi and fly kites in this historic park. Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest) (北京国家体育场 Běijīng Guójiā Tǐyùchǎng): Visit the iconic Olympic venue and explore its architecture. Beijing Planetarium (北京天文馆 Běijīng Tiānwénguǎn): Discover the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits. Beijing Ancient Observatory (北京古观象台 Běijīng Gǔ Guānxiàngtái): Learn about ancient Chinese astronomy and observe celestial objects. Capital Museum (首都博物馆 Shǒudū Bówùguǎn): Explore Chinese art and history with family-friendly exhibits. Beijing World Park (北京世界公园 Běijīng Shìjiè Gōngyuán): Travel around the world in a day with replicas of famous landmarks. Chinese Ethnic Culture Park (中国民族文化公园 Zhōngguó Mínzú Wénhuà Gōngyuán): Learn about China's diverse ethnic groups through cultural displays. Beijing Toy Museum (北京玩具博物馆 Běijīng Wánjù Bówùguǎn): Explore a vast collection of toys from different eras and cultures. Beijing Olympic Park (北京奥林匹克公园 Běijīng Àolínpǐkè Gōngyuán): Enjoy green spaces, walking paths, and iconic Olympic venues. Beijing Botanical Garden (北京植物园 Běijīng Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy outdoor activities. Beijing: 30 More Places to Visit Tiananmen Square (天安门广场 Tiān'ānmén Guǎngchǎng): Iconic city square with historical significance and monumental architecture. Hutongs (胡同 Hútòng): Explore Beijing's traditional narrow alleys and courtyard residences by rickshaw or walking tour. Prince Gong's Mansion (恭王府 Gōng Wáng Fǔ): Visit this well-preserved imperial residence with beautiful gardens and architecture. Yonghe Lama Temple (雍和宫 Yōng hé Gōng): Discover Tibetan Buddhist culture in this stunning temple complex. National Museum of China (中国国家博物馆 Zhōngguó Guójiā Bówùguǎn): Explore China's history and culture through extensive exhibits and artifacts. Beijing National Aquatics Center (Water Cube) (北京国家游泳中心 Běijīng Guójiā Yóuyǒng Zhōngxīn): Visit the iconic venue from the 2008 Olympics, now transformed into a water park. Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum (北京古建筑博物馆 Běijīng Gǔ Jiànzhù Bówùguǎn): Learn about traditional Chinese architecture in this unique museum. Beijing Railway Museum (北京铁路博物馆 Běijīng Tiělù Bówùguǎn): Explore the history of Chinese railways with exhibits of locomotives and artifacts. National Centre for the Performing Arts (国家大剧院 Guójiā Dàjùyuàn): Marvel at the futuristic architecture and enjoy performances in this iconic venue. Beijing Capital Museum (北京首都博物馆 Běijīng Shǒudū Bówùguǎn): Discover Chinese art and history through extensive collections and exhibitions. Beijing Ming Tombs (明十三陵 Míng Shísān Líng): Explore the burial site of Ming Dynasty emperors with grand architecture and scenic surroundings. Beijing Museum of Natural History (中国科学技术馆 Zhōngguó Kēxué Jìshùguǎn): Learn about the natural world with exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and ecosystems. Beijing Bell and Drum Towers (北京钟鼓楼 Běijīng Zhōnggǔ Lóu): Visit these historic structures and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Capital Library of China (中国国家图书馆 Zhōngguó Guójiā Túshūguǎn): Explore a vast collection of books and cultural resources in this modern library. Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) (圆明园 Yuánmíngyuán): Explore the ruins of this historic imperial palace complex with beautiful gardens. Beijing National Art Museum (北京国家艺术博物馆 Běijīng Guójiā Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover Chinese art through extensive collections of painting, sculpture, and calligraphy. Beijing Modern Art Gallery (北京现代美术馆 Běijīng Xiàndài Měishùguǎn): Explore contemporary Chinese art in this vibrant gallery space. Beijing Aviation Museum (北京航空馆 Běijīng Hángkōngguǎn): Learn about the history of aviation in China with exhibits of aircraft and technology. Beijing Confucius Temple and Imperial College (北京孔庙和国子监 Běijīng Kǒngmiào hé Guózǐjiàn): Discover Confucian culture in this historic temple and educational institution. Beijing South Railway Station (北京南站 Běijīng Nánzhàn): Experience modern transportation and marvel at the architecture of this major railway hub. Beijing Dongyue Temple (北京东岳庙 Běijīng Dōngyuèmiào): Explore Chinese folk religion and mythology in this unique temple complex. Beijing Shijingshan Amusement Park (北京石景山游乐园 Běijīng Shíjǐngshān Yóulèyuán): Enjoy rides and attractions in this popular amusement park. Beijing Garden Expo Park (北京园博园 Běijīng Yuánbóyuán): Explore beautiful gardens and landscapes in this scenic park. Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest) (北京国家体育场 Běijīng Guójiā Tǐyùchǎng): Visit the iconic Olympic venue and explore its architecture. Beijing Capital Museum (北京首都博物馆 Běijīng Shǒudū Bówùguǎn): Discover Chinese art and history through extensive collections and exhibitions. Beijing Ming Tombs (明十三陵 Míng Shísān Líng): Explore the burial site of Ming Dynasty emperors with grand architecture and scenic surroundings. Beijing Museum of Natural History (中国科学技术馆 Zhōngguó Kēxué Jìshùguǎn): Learn about the natural world with exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and ecosystems. Beijing Bell and Drum Towers (北京钟鼓楼 Běijīng Zhōnggǔ Lóu): Visit these historic structures and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Capital Library of China (中国国家图书馆 Zhōngguó Guójiā Túshūguǎn): Explore a vast collection of books and cultural resources in this modern library. Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) (圆明园 Yuánmíngyuán): Explore the ruins of this historic imperial palace complex with beautiful gardens.