90% of US drone strike deaths are civilians

The Shanghai World Expo, 2010 ...

A film by kinabaloo.com ...

Xi'An: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Huaqing Palace (华清池 Huáqīng Chí): Historic site with hot springs, gardens, and pavilions. Xi'an City Wall (西安城墙 Xī'ān Chéngqiáng): Ancient fortification with walkable ramparts and city views. Shaanxi History Museum (陕西历史博物馆 Shǎnxī Lìshǐ Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Shaanxi's history, culture, and artifacts. Xi'an Forest of Stone Steles Museum (西安碑林博物馆 Xī'ān Bēilín Bówùguǎn): Stone tablets with inscriptions, calligraphy, and art. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔 Dàyàn Tǎ): Buddhist pagoda with cultural relics, artifacts, and a fountain show. Tang Paradise (大唐芙蓉园 Dàtáng Fúróngyuán): Cultural theme park with Tang dynasty architecture, performances, and gardens. Xi'an Bell Tower (西安钟楼 Xī'ān Zhōnglóu): Historic tower with a bell, drum performances, and city views. Xi'an Drum Tower (西安鼓楼 Xī'ān Gǔlóu): Ancient tower with drum performances and city views. Qujiang Ocean World (曲江海洋世界 Qūjiāng Hǎiyáng Shìjiè): Aquarium with marine life exhibits, shows, and interactive experiences. Xi'an Qinling Wildlife Park (西安秦岭野生动物园 Xī'ān Qínlǐng Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): Safari park with animals like pandas, tigers, and elephants. Da Ci'en Temple (大慈恩寺 Dàcí'ēn Sì): Buddhist temple with a giant Buddha statue and garden. Tang West Market Museum (大唐西市博物馆 Dàtáng Xīshì Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on the Tang dynasty's market culture. Xi'an Botanical Garden (西安植物园 Xī'ān Zhíwùyuán): Botanical garden with diverse plant species and scenic landscapes. Shaanxi Children's Library (陕西省儿童图书馆 Shǎnxī Shěng Értóng Túshūguǎn): Library with children's books, activities, and events. Xi'an International Horticultural Expo Park (西安国际园林博览园 Xī'ān Guójì Yuánlín Bólǎn Yuán): Park with gardens, exhibitions, and cultural events. Yongxing Fang Food Street (永兴坊美食街 Yǒngxīng Fāng Měishí Jiē): Street food market with local snacks and specialties. Xi'an Silk Road Museum (西安丝绸之路博物馆 Xī'ān Sīchóu Zhīlù Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on the Silk Road's history and artifacts. Xi'an Daming Palace National Heritage Park (西安大明宫国家遗址公园 Xī'ān Dàmíng Gōng Guójiā Yízhǐ Gōngyuán): Park with ruins of the Tang dynasty palace and gardens. Shaanxi Library (陕西省图书馆 Shǎnxī Shěng Túshūguǎn): Library with a vast collection of books, periodicals, and archives. Xi'an Museum (西安博物院 Xī'ān Bówùyuàn): Museum with exhibits on Xi'an's history, culture, and archaeology. Xi'An: 30 More Places to Visit Xi'an Grand Mosque (西安大清真寺 Xī'ān Dà Qīngzhēnsì): Ancient mosque with Islamic architecture and a tranquil courtyard. Xi'an Great Mosque (西安大清真寺 Xī'ān Dà Qīngzhēnsì): Historic mosque with traditional Chinese and Islamic architecture. Xi'an Yongning Gate (西安永宁门 Xī'ān Yǒngníng Mén): Ancient city gate with towers, arches, and historic significance. Drum Tower Square (西安鼓楼广场 Xī'ān Gǔlóu Guǎngchǎng): Plaza with a water fountain, sculptures, and cultural events. Xi'an Stele Forest (西安碑林 Xī'ān Bēilín): Collection of stone tablets with inscriptions, calligraphy, and historical texts. Xi'an Famen Temple (西安法门寺 Xī'ān Fǎmén Sì): Buddhist temple with relics, pagodas, and ancient architecture. Xi'an Huashan Mountain (西安华山 Xī'ān Huàshān): Scenic mountain with hiking trails, temples, and stunning views. Big Wild Goose Pagoda North Square (大雁塔北广场 Dàyàn Tǎ Běi Guǎngchǎng): Square with sculptures, fountains, and cultural events. Gao Grand Courtyard (高家大院 Gāojiā Dàyuàn): Historic mansion with traditional architecture, courtyards, and gardens. Xingqing Palace Park (兴庆宫公园 Xīngqìng Gōng Gōngyuán): Park with historic ruins, gardens, and cultural exhibitions. Xi'an Silk Road International Museum (西安丝绸之路国际博物馆 Xī'ān Sīchóu Zhīlù Guójì Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on the Silk Road's history, culture, and trade. Xi'an Small Wild Goose Pagoda (小雁塔 Xiǎo Yàn Tǎ): Buddhist pagoda with historic relics, artifacts, and gardens. Shaanxi Provincial Museum of Fine Arts (陕西美术馆 Shǎnxī Měishùguǎn): Museum with Chinese paintings, sculptures, and contemporary art. Shaanxi History Museum (陕西历史博物馆 Shǎnxī Lìshǐ Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Shaanxi's history, culture, and artifacts. Xi'an Tang Art Museum (西安唐艺术博物馆 Xī'ān Táng Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on Tang dynasty art, ceramics, and sculpture. Xi'an Beilin Museum (西安碑林博物馆 Xī'ān Bēilín Bówùguǎn): Museum with stone tablets, calligraphy, and ancient inscriptions. Xi'an Mosque Food Street (西安回民街美食街 Xī'ān Huímín Jiē Měishí Jiē): Street food market with halal cuisine and local specialties. Xi'an Qujiang Polar Ocean Park (西安曲江北极洋公园 Xī'ān Qūjiāng Běijí Yáng Gōngyuán): Polar ocean park with marine life exhibits, shows, and activities. Xi'an Xingjiao Temple (西安兴教寺 Xī'ān Xīngjiào Sì): Buddhist temple with historic relics, statues, and prayer halls. Xi'an Confucius Temple (西安文庙 Xī'ān Wénmiào): Confucian temple with traditional architecture, gardens, and cultural events. Xi'an Islamic Food Street (西安回民街 Xī'ān Huímín Jiē): Street food market with halal cuisine, snacks, and traditional dishes. Xi'an Daming Palace National Heritage Park (西安大明宫国家遗址公园 Xī'ān Dàmíng Gōng Guójiā Yízhǐ Gōngyuán): Park with ruins of the Tang dynasty palace and gardens. Xi'an Sanyuan Palace (西安三原宫 Xī'ān Sānyuán Gōng): Taoist temple with historic architecture, statues, and gardens. Xi'an Shuyuanmen Ancient Cultural Street (西安书院门古文化街 Xī'ān Shūyuàn Mén Gǔ Wénhuà Jiē): Historic street with traditional architecture, shops, and cultural activities. Xi'an Huayan Temple (西安华严寺 Xī'ān Huáyán Sì): Buddhist temple with ancient architecture, sculptures, and gardens. Xi'an Tang Paradise (西安大唐芙蓉园 Xī'ān Dàtáng Fúróngyuán): Cultural theme park with Tang dynasty architecture, performances, and gardens. Xi'an Qianling Mausoleum (西安乾陵 Xī'ān Qiánlíng): Imperial tomb site with historic artifacts, sculptures, and mausoleums. Xi'an Great Mosque (西安大清真寺 Xī'ān Dà Qīngzhēnsì): Historic mosque with traditional Chinese and Islamic architecture. Xi'an Bell Tower (西安钟楼 Xī'ān Zhōnglóu): Historic tower with a bell, drum performances, and city views. Xi'an Museum of Modern Art (西安当代美术馆 Xī'ān Dāngdài Měishùguǎn): Museum with contemporary art exhibitions and installations.

With Pandaland Villager ... Visitor Guide to ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, SuZhou Overview ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, located in SuZhou, JiangSu Province, are renowned for their picturesque beauty and historical significance. Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," ShanTang Street is a perfect blend of traditional Chinese architecture, serene waterways, and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination. Historical Background of ShanTang River ShanTang River, also known as the "Seven-Li Shantang," was originally constructed in 825 AD during the Tang Dynasty. The construction was overseen by Bai Juyi, a renowned poet and the then governor of SuZhou. The canal was built to connect SuZhou city with HuQiu (Tiger Hill), facilitating trade and transportation while providing a scenic route for travelers. The project was an ambitious undertaking aimed at promoting economic development and improving water management in the region. The construction of the canal also helped to control flooding and provided a reliable source of water for irrigation, which was crucial for local agriculture. Over the centuries, ShanTang River became a vital artery for the transportation of goods and people. It also served as a cultural hub, with the development of markets, temples, and residential areas along its banks. The river and the adjacent ShanTang Street became synonymous with prosperity and cultural richness, attracting scholars, merchants, and artists who contributed to the flourishing of SuZhou. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is SuZhou Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX), located about 40 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach ShanTang Street. By Train: SuZhou Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like Shanghai, HangZhou, and Nanjing. From the station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach ShanTang Street. By Bus: SuZhou is well-served by long-distance buses from nearby cities. The main bus station in SuZhou is SuZhou North Bus Station, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to ShanTang Street. Getting Around Walking: The best way to explore ShanTang Street is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the historical buildings, quaint shops, and beautiful scenery. Boating: Taking a boat ride along the ShanTang River offers a unique perspective of the ancient town and its waterways. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of SuZhou. Main Attractions ShanTang Street This ancient street, with a history of over 1,100 years, stretches for about 3.5 kilometers along the ShanTang River. It is lined with well-preserved traditional buildings, charming shops, tea houses, and restaurants, offering a delightful walking experience. ShanTang River The ShanTang River is a scenic waterway that flows through the heart of the town. Boat rides along the river provide a tranquil and picturesque journey, showcasing the town's beautiful bridges, ancient buildings, and lush gardens. Pingjiang Road Located nearby, Pingjiang Road is another historic street that complements your visit to ShanTang Street. Known for its classical SuZhou gardens, traditional houses, and cultural sites, it offers a deeper understanding of SuZhou's rich heritage. Baosheng Temple Baosheng Temple, located along ShanTang Street, is a historic Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and serene gardens. It provides a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the town's religious heritage. Tiger Hill Just a short distance from ShanTang Street, Tiger Hill is a popular tourist attraction known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and the iconic Yunyan Pagoda, often referred to as the "Leaning Tower of China." Local Cuisine SuZhou's cuisine is known for its delicate flavors and emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes: Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish: A signature dish of SuZhou, featuring fresh fish cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce. Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish: A beautifully presented dish with a crispy exterior and tender meat, often served with a sweet and sour sauce. SuZhou Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles served in a rich broth with various toppings, including pork, shrimp, and vegetables. Local Pastries: Try the traditional SuZhou-style mooncakes and other pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Shopping Local Handicrafts: ShanTang Street is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including silk products, embroidery, and paper-cutting. These items make for unique souvenirs. Antique Shops: Explore local antique shops for historical artifacts, vintage items, and collectibles. Tea Houses: Purchase high-quality Chinese tea from the local tea houses along ShanTang Street. Accommodation Traditional Inns: For an authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional inn or guesthouse, which often feature historical architecture and local decor. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the SuZhou Garden Hotel and local boutique hotels provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the SuZhou Marriott Hotel or the SuZhou Jinji Lake Grand Hotel, both offering excellent amenities and service. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit ShanTang Street are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: ShanTang Street is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion ShanTang River and ShanTang Street, with their rich history, traditional architecture, and picturesque scenery, offer a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, savoring local cuisine, or taking a serene boat ride along the river, ShanTang provides an unforgettable glimpse into SuZhou's past. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this charming destination in JiangSu Province.

ZheJiang province.

China's transformation and an interview with Professor Bill Brown, who came to China 30 years ago and made it his family home ...

With Walking Vincent ... "Tonight, I'm coming to ShenZhen's FuTian district to watch the light show. Futian is the central area of ShenZhen, where the government is located, and the city's tallest building, Ping An Finance Center, is also here. In mid-December, the weather in ShenZhen starts to get cold, so there are fewer people on the streets. Every Friday and Saturday night, there is a light show in the Civic Center Square. This is one of the viewing spots, but I heard there's an even better viewing location on a nearby hill (I will go and explore it later, so stay tuned). Well, let's enjoy this beautiful light show together. In China, ShenZhen ranks first nationwide with 185 buildings taller than 200 meters, far surpassing New York in the United States. Moreover, the economic development history of Shenzhen is only a short span of over forty years, which is truly astonishing." With Walking in the air ...