A ‘spiritual’ trip to GuiLin 桂林, GuangXi province

With Barrett ... Step into Fuzhou, the heart of Fujian Province, where 2,200 years of history blend seamlessly with a modern skyline. From the ancient Three Lanes and Seven Alleys to the majestic Sitan Temple, this city has preserved its Maritime Silk Road legacy while shaping China’s future. Stroll through its winding alleys, witness breathtaking architecture, and discover the legendary Love Heart Tree—a symbol of romance and tradition. Fuzhou Travel Guide Introduction Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province, is a historic and culturally rich city with a blend of traditional architecture, modern development, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Banyans," it is famous for its ancient trees, hot springs, and historical sites. Top Attractions Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (Sanfang Qixiang) A well-preserved historical district with Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, narrow lanes, and courtyards filled with tea houses, local snacks, and boutique shops. Drum Mountain (Gushan) A scenic area featuring ancient temples, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Min River. The famous Yongquan Temple is located here. West Lake Park One of the most beautiful parks in Fuzhou, offering boat rides, classical pavilions, and gardens reminiscent of West Lake in Hangzhou. Pingtan Island A stunning coastal area with pristine beaches, rock formations, and a rich fishing culture. Perfect for those seeking seaside relaxation. Fuzhou National Forest Park A large forest park offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities. A great escape from the city's hustle. Hot Springs Fuzhou is known for its natural hot springs, with many hotels and resorts offering spa experiences. The most famous is Rongqiao Hot Springs. Local Cuisine Fuzhou cuisine is known for its fresh seafood and mild, slightly sweet flavors. Must-try dishes include: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall – A luxurious soup with seafood, meat, and medicinal herbs. Fish Ball Soup – Handmade fish balls stuffed with meat in a light broth. Litchi Pork – Sweet and sour pork dish resembling the shape of lychee fruit. Fuzhou Noodles – Thin noodles in a flavorful broth, often served with seafood. Best Time to Visit Fuzhou has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is comfortable and ideal for sightseeing. Transportation By Air: Fuzhou Changle International Airport connects the city to major domestic and international destinations. By Train: High-speed trains link Fuzhou to cities like Xiamen, Shanghai, and Beijing. Public Transport: Buses and metro lines make it easy to explore the city. Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Didi and taxis are widely available for convenient travel. Accommodation Fuzhou offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Recommended areas to stay include the city center near Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, as well as the hot spring district. Conclusion Fuzhou is a fascinating destination with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, hiking mountains, or enjoying hot springs, the city offers a diverse and rewarding travel experience.

The MaiJiShan Grottoes are filled with thousands of Buddhist sculptures. These were carved from the Wei dynasty to the Song dynasty by Buddhist monks who first came here via the North Silk Road. The grottoes are close to TianShui, which is the second largest city in GanSu province in central China, with a population of approximately 3.5 milion. The city lies along the route of the ancient Northern Silk Road by the Wei River, through which much of the trade flowed between China and the West. The Qin state, the founding dynasty of China, arose in this part of China.

With Rafa Goes Around! ... Self driving cars / taxis ... Bonus film - after dark, party time in China ... Bonus film 2 - BeiJing's new DaXing mega airport - with Walk East ...

Summer 2012.

With Walk East ...

With Walk East ... Bonus film - with Xplore With Us ...

"Seven small arches" ...

ZhangJiaJie is one part of WuLingYuan National Forest Park in HuNan province, south China, and is a wonderland of strange peaks, stunning valleys, ancient trees, caves and waterfalls. There are over 500 scenic spots in this area of outstanding natural beauty; it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In all, it covers around 700 square kilometers (270 square miles).