Tranquility in LiJiang ancient town, YunNan province

StudyAbroadUSAC - Study Abroad, in ChengDu and ShangHai

HuangShan (Yellow Mountain) is one of the most famous scenic areas in China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site ...

With Walk East ...

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.

Plus a charity run for deaf children ...

DéTiān PùBù, 'Virtuous Heaven Waterfall', is Asia's largest and easily viewed by walkways and boat. The waterfalls lie in the south of GuangXi province on the border with Vietnam. There are buses from NanNing, the provincial capital.

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With Andy see the World ...

It is still possible to get by with cash from ATMs, but for longer visits it can be a good idea to set up AliPay (or WeChat). Getting started with Alipay involves creating an account and setting up your payment methods. Here is a step-by-step guide: ### Setting Up Alipay: 1. **Download the Alipay App:** - Go to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS). - Search for "Alipay" and download the official app developed by Ant Group. 2. **Install and Open the App:** - Install the Alipay app on your device. - Open the app once the installation is complete. 3. **Language Selection:** - Choose your preferred language for the app. 4. **Create an Account:** - Tap on "Sign Up" or "Register." - Choose your country or region and enter your mobile phone number. - Create a strong password for your Alipay account. 5. **Verify Your Identity:** - Alipay may require you to verify your identity. This could involve receiving a verification code via SMS. 6. **Add a Payment Method:** - Link your bank card or credit card to your Alipay account. - Go to "Me" (bottom right corner) > "Wallet" > "Add Card." 7. **Add Funds to Your Alipay Account:** - You may need to add funds to your Alipay account. You can link your bank account for direct transfers or use a linked card for payments. 8. **Set Up Security Features:** - Enable security features such as fingerprint or facial recognition to enhance account security. - Set a payment password for additional security. ### Using Alipay: 1. **Making Payments:** - To make a payment, tap on "Scan" and scan the QR code of the recipient. - Enter the amount and add a note if necessary. - Confirm the payment with your password or biometric authentication. 2. **Receiving Payments:** - To receive money, the payer can scan your Alipay QR code. - Confirm the payment on your Alipay app. 3. **Exploring Additional Features:** - Alipay offers various features beyond payments, such as bill payments, transportation services, and investments. Explore the app to discover these options. 4. **Managing Your Account:** - Regularly check your transaction history and account settings. - Customize your profile and settings under the "Me" section. 5. **Security Tips:** - Be cautious of phishing attempts. Always use the official app and avoid clicking on suspicious links. - Regularly update your password and enable two-factor authentication for added security. Remember that Alipay's features and interface may evolve, so it's a good idea to check for updates within the app or refer to Alipay's official website for the latest information.