ZhangJiaJie trip with Sophie Kim

Overview : Walk-through : Music and dance : Fly-over and night-time : The Stone Forest is not far from the city of Kunming.

With WestChinaGo ... With BeijingBuzzz ... With Ross ... With China Walking Tour ... With Chris ... Summer Palace Visitor Guide - BeiJing Overview The Summer Palace, located in the HaiDian district of Beijing, is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It served as a royal garden and retreat for the Qing Dynasty emperors and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Getting There Location: 19 XinJianGongMen Road, HaiDian District, Beijing, China. Public Transport: Subway: Line 4, Beigongmen Station (North Palace Gate), Exit D. Alternatively, Line 10, Xiyuan Station, Exit C2. Bus: Several bus lines stop near the Summer Palace, including routes 303, 330, 331, 332, 346, 508, 579, and 584. Opening Hours April 1 to October 31: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM (ticket sales and last entry at 4:00 PM) November 1 to March 31: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (ticket sales and last entry at 3:00 PM) Tickets April 1 to October 31: Entrance Fee: ¥30, Through Ticket (includes Dehe Garden, Tower of Buddhist Incense, Suzhou Street, and Wenchang Hall): ¥60 November 1 to March 31: Entrance Fee: ¥20, Through Ticket: ¥50 Main Attractions The Summer Palace is rich with historical and cultural sites. Here are some of the main attractions: Kunming Lake: This large lake dominates the Summer Palace and is ideal for boating. It covers about three-quarters of the park's area. Longevity Hill: Standing 60 meters high, it provides excellent views of the lake and surrounding area. Important buildings such as the Tower of Buddhist Incense are located here. Seventeen-Arch Bridge: A long, beautiful bridge that connects the eastern shore of Kunming Lake to Nanhu Island. Long Corridor: A 728-meter-long covered walkway decorated with intricate paintings, connecting the Hall of Dispelling Clouds to the Marble Boat. Marble Boat: A lakeside pavilion built from marble and wood, symbolizing stability and the enduring nature of the Qing Dynasty. Hall of Benevolence and Longevity: The administrative center of the Summer Palace, where Empress Dowager Cixi handled state affairs. Suzhou Street: A charming area designed to resemble the canals and traditional shops of Suzhou, complete with waterways and bridges. Activities Visitors to the Summer Palace can engage in various activities: Boating: Rent a paddleboat or take a dragon boat tour on Kunming Lake. Walking and Hiking: Stroll along the scenic paths, the Long Corridor, or hike up Longevity Hill for panoramic views. Photography: Capture the stunning architecture, landscapes, and historical sites. Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the Summer Palace. Dining and Refreshments Several cafes and snack stalls are available within the Summer Palace, offering light refreshments, drinks, and local snacks. For a more substantial meal, visitors can dine at restaurants near the park entrances. Visitor Tips Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to the pleasant weather. Summer can be very hot, and winter can be quite cold. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Summer Palace is vast, and exploring it involves a lot of walking. Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially during the hotter months. Respect the Site: The Summer Palace is a cultural heritage site. Avoid touching artifacts, stay on marked paths, and do not litter. Plan Your Visit: Due to its size, plan which sections you want to visit in advance to make the most of your time. Nearby Attractions Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan): Located nearby, this former imperial garden offers ruins and beautiful landscapes to explore. Beijing University: One of China’s most prestigious universities, known for its beautiful campus and Weiming Lake. Tsinghua University: Another top university in China, with an expansive and scenic campus. Conclusion The Summer Palace in Beijing is a magnificent site rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in Chinese history, stunning architecture, or beautiful landscapes, the Summer Palace offers a memorable and enriching experience.

Beginning with the Potala Palace in Lhasa, which lies at an altitude of 3,700 meters / 12,000 feet. Construction began in 1645. The second video shows Jokhang Temple, said to be the most sacred; it dates from the 7th century.

LiJiang is primarily home to the NaXi ethnic minority. XiShuangBanNa is close to the border with Myanmar.

A documentary series by RT. Text by RT. The Ancient Silk Road was a trade route that began in China in the 2nd century BC and, for more than 1700 years, linked Europe and Asia. As well as goods, it facilitated a cultural exchange between the continents, knowledge, religion, art, philosophy and tradition all passed back and forth between distant nations. Modern China now has the strongest economy in Asia and is a major world power. This series examines the enduring influence of the Silk Road in making the nation what it is today and how its legacy still thrives in China. PART ONE From the 2nd century BC onwards, the great Silk Road was a vital trade route that provided a link between Eurasian countries. It began during China’s Han dynasty and eventually stretched all the way to Rome. Throughout its 17 centuries of existence, it played a crucial role in enabling cultural interaction between nations and peoples all over the continents. As well as establishing economic ties, it also facilitated the exchange between countries of knowledge, religious practice, architectural styles, art, philosophy and traditions. Modern Chinese culture has been heavily influenced by centuries of trade with neighbouring countries. Today, there are still sites in China that preserve the history of the Silk Road and the country’s role in it. Tang West Market Museum in the city of Xi'an marks the ancient starting point of the Silk Road and displays relics unearthed from what used to be a major centre for international trade. The Silk Route Museum in the city of Jiuquan celebrates the first ever customs checkpoint in history. This city served as an outpost on China’s border with unforgiving and perilous nomadic lands. Meanwhile, a network of grottos called the Mogao Caves bears witness to Buddhism arriving and thriving in China. Today, China remains true to the well-established tradition of cultural exchange with its neighbours. 2016-2017 are dedicated to furthering Russo-Chinese relations and bilateral media ties. The history of collaboration between the two countries dates back as far as 400 years, when religious missionaries crossed the borders to introduce the other side to their homeland’s rich cultural practices. PART TWO China is developing a unique blend of socialism and capitalism. The state-owned sector dominates but there has been a sudden surge in privately owned businesses operating in a new market economy. The two systems coexist in apparent harmony despite the seemingly contradictory ideologies of capitalism and communism. Private businesses began to appear after the country’s economic reforms of the late 1970s, ushered in by then premier, Deng Xiaoping. The emergence of private entrepreneurship led to rapid economic development for China. The country is still among the world’s fastest growing economies and is often the first to tap into new markets. To further expand its regional economic influence, China has launched a programme to revive the famous old Silk Road. They are confident that the route will develop new international markets and forge new business alliances. The multifaceted programme involves improving road infrastructure and modernising key cities along the ancient Silk trading route. They are also creating more favourable conditions for business with incentives like company tax breaks and duty-free towns near the borders with neighbouring countries. The project has been dubbed the ‘One Belt, One Road initiative’, and involves cooperation with more than 60, mostly neighbouring countries, with Russia among the major partners. RTD examines examples of Sino-Russian cooperation carried out under the ‘One Belt, One Road’ umbrella, including large-scale government projects and private trade deals with Russian customers. PART THREE - The Ancient Silk Road was a major trade route that linked Europe and Asia between the 2nd century BC and the late 16th AD. - Modern China is a rapidly growing economy. “One Belt, One Road” is an initiative to revive the Silk Road to help the country play a bigger role in global affairs. - Ancient towns that were once key outposts on the Silk Road are undergoing rapid growth both economically and in infrastructure as they are to reprise their roles as major trading waypoints along the route - Citizens now enjoy new business opportunities and contribute further to developing their cities In its heyday, the ancient Silk Road was Eurasia’s most important trade route, connecting two rich continents to facilitate trade and cultural exchange. Modern-day China has seen near constant economic growth. It boasts of several record figures, including the highest number of skyscrapers and the longest railroads. Five years ago, the government announced a new plan, “One Belt, One Road”, an initiative to revive the Silk Road. The strategy seeks to help China play a bigger role in global affairs through developing an infrastructure that will unite the countries of the two continents under a cohesive economic area. Many ancient Chinese cities that were once outposts along the Silk Road, desert oases or transport hubs are now rapidly transforming themselves into megacities, so that they can, once again, service and profit from the trade route. New businesses are opening, facilitated by the development of a reliable transport system, which in turn brings greater tourist flow. Some cities are also grated the status of special economic area, offering attractive tax incentives to foreign investors. We visit two very different cities; Lanchjou and Urumchi, united by the Silk Road’s history. Both are experiencing rapid development. We meet businessmen who tell us how it feels to watch their home towns transform into economically and politically significant conurbations and how it inspires them to aim for international markets and seek new outlets for their businesses to grow.

Dream of the Red Chamber or The Story of the Stone is a Chinese novel composed by Cao XueQin in the mid-18th century. With Middle Kingdom Productions ... Bonus film - a Vertical Forest architecture in NanJing ...

With Li JingJing ... Visitor Guide to Kashgar, XinJiang Overview Kashgar, located in the XinJiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, is a city steeped in history and culture. It is known for its rich Silk Road heritage, bustling markets, and beautiful mosques. Kashgar is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities, with a unique blend of Uyghur, Han Chinese, and other influences. Getting There By Air: Kashgar Airport (KHG) is the main airport serving the city, with regular flights from major cities such as Urumqi, BeiJing, and ShangHai. The airport is located about 10 kilometers northeast of the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach your destination. By Train: Kashgar Railway Station is connected to major cities in XinJiang and beyond. The train journey from Urumqi to Kashgar offers stunning views of the region's diverse landscapes. The railway station is located about 5 kilometers from the city center. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Kashgar with other cities in XinJiang. The main bus station is located in the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers. Getting Around Public Transport: Kashgar has a local bus network that covers major areas of the city. Buses are an affordable way to get around. Taxis: Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive. Make sure to have your destination written in Chinese or Uyghur for ease of communication. Biking: Bike rentals are available for those who want to explore the city at their own pace. Main Attractions Id Kah Mosque The Id Kah Mosque is the largest mosque in China and a central landmark in Kashgar. Built in 1442, it is a place of worship for the city's Muslim population and a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. Visitors can explore the mosque's courtyards, prayer halls, and gardens. Kashgar Old Town Kashgar Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, traditional mud-brick houses, and bustling bazaars. It's a great place to experience the city's unique culture and heritage. Wander through the streets, visit local shops, and try some traditional Uyghur cuisine. Sunday Market The Kashgar Sunday Market is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia. Held every Sunday, it attracts traders and buyers from all over the region. You can find everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles, handicrafts, and livestock. Abakh Hoja Tomb The Abakh Hoja Tomb, also known as the Xiangfei Tomb, is a beautiful mausoleum built in the 17th century. It is the burial place of the famous Uyghur ruler Abakh Hoja and his family. The tomb is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate tilework. Karakul Lake Located about 200 kilometers from Kashgar, Karakul Lake is a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake's crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery make it a popular destination for trekking and camping. Historical Significance Kashgar has a long and rich history as a major stop on the ancient Silk Road. It was an important hub for trade and cultural exchange between the East and West. Over the centuries, Kashgar has been influenced by various cultures, including Persian, Indian, Greek, and Arab, which is reflected in its diverse architecture and cultural heritage. The city has also been a center of Islamic learning and culture in China. The Id Kah Mosque and other religious sites in Kashgar attract pilgrims and scholars from all over the Muslim world. Local Cuisine Uyghur cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Kashgar. Here are some must-try dishes: Pilaf (Polo): A flavorful rice dish cooked with lamb, carrots, onions, and spices. Laghman: Hand-pulled noodles served with a savory sauce made of meat, vegetables, and spices. Kebab: Grilled skewers of marinated lamb or chicken, often served with flatbread and salad. Samsa: Baked pastries filled with minced meat and onions, similar to samosas. Nan: Traditional Uyghur bread baked in a tandoor oven, perfect for accompanying any meal. Shopping Sunday Market: The best place to buy local handicrafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs. Don't forget to haggle for the best prices. Night Market: Explore the night market for a variety of street food and local snacks, as well as traditional Uyghur music and dance performances. Local Shops: Numerous shops in Kashgar sell unique items such as silk scarves, carpets, pottery, and jewelry. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: Kashgar offers several high-end hotels with excellent amenities, such as the Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar and the Yue Xing Jin Jiang International Hotel. Mid-Range Hotels: There are numerous mid-range options providing comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, including the Seman Hotel and the Kashgar Old City Youth Hostel. Budget Accommodations: Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels throughout the city. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Kashgar are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Light, breathable clothing is recommended for the hot summer months, and warm layers for the colder seasons. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly in the predominantly Muslim areas. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, knowing a few basic phrases in Uyghur can be helpful. English may not be commonly understood, so consider using a translation app. Plan Your Visit: Kashgar offers a rich mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Plan your visit to include a variety of experiences to fully appreciate the city's diverse offerings. Conclusion Kashgar, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're exploring the ancient streets of the Old Town, marveling at the architectural beauty of the Id Kah Mosque, or enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Karakul Lake, Kashgar promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time in this extraordinary city in XinJiang.

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