XinJiang-style dance in BeiHai Park 北海公园, BeiJing

Filmed in October 2010.

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history, culture, and modernity. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect as a tourist in Beijing:

Historical Landmarks:
The Great Wall of China: One of the most iconic structures in the world, the Great Wall is easily accessible from Beijing. Mutianyu and Badaling sections are popular among tourists.

Forbidden City (Palace Museum): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast imperial palace complex was home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years. It houses numerous halls, courtyards, and historical artifacts.

Temple of Heaven: A masterpiece of Chinese architecture, this ancient temple complex served as a place of worship for emperors to pray for good harvests.

Summer Palace: A stunning ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces, the Summer Palace served as a retreat for emperors during the Qing dynasty.

Tiananmen Square: One of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is flanked by important landmarks such as the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

Cultural Sites:
Beijing Hutongs: Explore the narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard residences of Beijing's historic neighborhoods. You can take a rickshaw tour or simply wander around on foot.

Beijing Opera: Experience traditional Chinese opera performances at venues like the Liyuan Theater or the Chang'an Grand Theatre.

798 Art District: A hub of contemporary art and culture, this former industrial area is now home to numerous galleries, studios, and cafes.

Modern Attractions:
Olympic Park: Visit iconic structures such as the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

CBD (Central Business District): Marvel at the futuristic skyline of Beijing's modern business district, which includes landmarks like the CCTV Headquarters and the China World Trade Center Tower III.

Culinary Delights:
Peking Duck: Indulge in Beijing's most famous dish, crispy roast duck served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.

Street Food: Explore the city's vibrant street food scene and sample local delicacies like jianbing (savory crepes), lamb skewers, and dumplings.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. However, traffic can be heavy, so plan your travels accordingly.

Language: While English is not widely spoken, especially outside tourist areas, many signs and transportation announcements are in English. It's helpful to carry a translation app or a phrasebook.

Weather: Beijing experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. The best times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home and using both hands to pass or receive items.

Beijing offers a rich tapestry of experiences for tourists, blending ancient heritage with modern innovations. Whether you're fascinated by history, culture, or culinary delights, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

XinJiang map

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The extraordinary LongJi (Dragon’s Backbone) rice terraces, GuangXi province

With EpicGlobe Walks ... Visitor Guide to the Longji Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces Introduction The Longji Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces, Longsheng County, Guangxi Province, are one of the most breathtaking agricultural landscapes in the world. These terraces, which resemble a dragon’s scales, were first built during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) and have been maintained by the local Zhuang and Yao communities for centuries. The terraces are a testament to human ingenuity and harmony with nature. Best Time to Visit The Longji Rice Terraces are stunning year-round, but the best times to visit are: Spring (April–May): The terraces are filled with water, creating a mirror-like effect that reflects the sky and surrounding mountains. Summer (June–August): The rice paddies are lush and green, offering a vibrant landscape. Autumn (September–October): The rice turns golden, creating a warm, picturesque scene. Winter (November–February): The terraces are sometimes covered in snow, offering a serene and unique view. How to Get There The Longji Rice Terraces are approximately 100 kilometers from Guilin. Here’s how to reach them: By Bus: Take a bus from Guilin Bus Station to Longsheng (about 2 hours). From Longsheng, transfer to a local bus or taxi to the terraces (another 1 hour). By Private Car: Hiring a private car or taxi from Guilin is a convenient option and takes about 2.5 hours. By Tour: Many tour operators in Guilin offer day trips to the terraces, including transportation and guided tours. Main Attractions 1. Ping’an Terraces The Ping’an Terraces are the most accessible and popular section of the Longji Rice Terraces. Highlights include: Seven Stars with Moon: A cluster of seven small rice paddies surrounding a larger one, resembling stars and the moon. Nine Dragons and Five Tigers: A scenic spot where the terraces resemble dragons and tigers. 2. Jinkeng Terraces The Jinkeng Terraces are less crowded and offer stunning views. Key spots include: Golden Buddha Peak: The highest point in the area, offering panoramic views of the terraces. Yao Minority Villages: Visit the traditional villages of the Yao people, known for their long hair customs. Activities Hiking: Explore the terraces on foot via well-marked trails. Popular routes include Ping’an to Jinkeng and vice versa. Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset. Cultural Experiences: Visit local villages to learn about the Zhuang and Yao cultures, including traditional dances and handicrafts. Tips for Visitors Wear Comfortable Shoes: The terrain is hilly and uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. Bring Layers: The weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if you plan to hike. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the local cultures and traditions. Cash is King: Many local vendors and small businesses do not accept credit cards. Where to Stay There are several accommodation options near the terraces, ranging from guesthouses to boutique hotels. Popular choices include: Ping’an Village: Offers a range of guesthouses with stunning terrace views. Dazhai Village: Known for its Yao culture and cozy lodgings. Conclusion The Longji Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces are a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking through the terraces, learning about local traditions, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, this UNESCO World Heritage Site promises an unforgettable experience.