China to Laos high speed rail link – win-win with the BRI

ZhūJiāJiǎo is an ancient water town now situated in the outskirt of ShangHai municipality. The town has 36 beautiful bridges dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties.

If you have not yet been to China, how to communicate might be a concern. This video is by a popular travel blogger discussing just this, after six months in China ...

Hong Kong: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Ocean Park Hong Kong (海洋公園 Hǎiyáng Gōngyuán): Amusement park with marine life exhibits, animal shows, and rides. Hong Kong Disneyland (香港迪士尼乐园 Xiānggǎng Díshìní Lèyuán): Magical theme park with Disney characters, rides, and attractions. The Peak Tram (山顶缆车 Shāndǐng Lǎnchē): Ride the iconic tram to Victoria Peak for panoramic views of the city. Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens (香港动植物公园 Xiānggǎng Dòngzhíwù Gōngyuán): Explore diverse plant and animal species in these gardens. Nan Lian Garden (南莲园池 Nán Lián Yuánchí): Tranquil Chinese garden with scenic ponds, pavilions, and bonsai trees. Hong Kong Space Museum (香港太空馆 Xiānggǎng Tàikōng Guǎn): Discover space science and astronomy through interactive exhibits. Hong Kong Science Museum (香港科学馆 Xiānggǎng Kēxué Guǎn): Interactive science exhibits and an Omnimax theater. Hong Kong Museum of History (香港历史博物馆 Xiānggǎng Lìshǐ Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's history, culture, and heritage. Noah's Ark Hong Kong (香港挪亚方舟公园 Xiānggǎng Nuóyà Fāngzhōu Gōngyuán): Themed attraction with a replica of Noah's Ark and educational exhibits. Lamma Island (南丫岛 Nányā Dǎo): Explore beaches, hiking trails, and seafood restaurants on this tranquil island. Wetland Park (香港湿地公园 Xiānggǎng Shīdì Gōngyuán): Nature reserve with boardwalks, birdwatching, and educational exhibits. Trick Eye Museum (幻境艺术馆 Huàn Jìng Yìshù Guǎn): Interactive art museum with optical illusions and 3D exhibits. Hong Kong Maritime Museum (香港海事博物馆 Xiānggǎng Hǎishì Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's maritime heritage and seafaring history. Discovery Bay (愉景湾 Yújǐng Wān): Relaxing beach area with water sports, dining, and shopping. Butterfly Beach (蝴蝶湾 Húdié Wān): Picturesque beach with clear water and gentle waves. Hong Kong Toy Museum (香港玩具博物馆 Xiānggǎng Wánjù Bówùguǎn): Vintage and collectible toys from different eras. Lantau Island (大屿山 Dàyǔ Shān): Giant Buddha statue, Ngong Ping 360 cable car, and hiking trails. Kowloon Park (九龙公园 Jiǔlóng Gōngyuán): Green space with playgrounds, aviaries, and a swimming pool. Ma Wan Park (馬灣公園 Mǎwān Gōngyuán): Theme park with attractions like the Ma Wan Tung Wan Beach. Lion Rock Park (狮子山公园 Shīzǐ Shān Gōngyuán): Hiking trails with views of the city skyline and Lion Rock. Hong Kong: 30 More Places to Visit Victoria Harbour (维多利亚港 Wéiduōlìyà Gǎng): Iconic harbor with stunning views, ferries, and the Symphony of Lights. Temple Street Night Market (庙街夜市 Miào Jiē Yèshì): Bustling market with street food, souvenirs, and fortune tellers. Stanley Market (赤柱市集 Chìzhù Shìjí): Waterfront market with clothing, accessories, and handicrafts. Peak Circle Walk (山顶环道 Shāndǐng Huán Dào): Scenic walking trail around Victoria Peak with panoramic views. Lamma Island Family Walk (南丫岛家庭步行径 Nányā Dǎo Jiātíng Bùxíng Jìng): Easy coastal walk with sea views and seafood restaurants. Nan Lian Garden (南莲园池 Nán Lián Yuánchí): Tranquil Chinese garden with scenic ponds, pavilions, and bonsai trees. Lantau Trail (大屿山径 Dàyǔ Shān Jìng): Hiking trail covering Lantau Island's scenic landscapes and beaches. Tai O Fishing Village (大澳渔村 Dà'ào Yúcūn): Traditional fishing village with stilt houses and seafood delicacies. Nan Lian Garden (南莲园池 Nán Lián Yuánchí): Tranquil Chinese garden with scenic ponds, pavilions, and bonsai trees. Chi Lin Nunnery (志蓮淨苑 Zhìlián Jìngyuàn): Buddhist monastery with elegant architecture and tranquil gardens. Man Mo Temple (文武廟 Mùi Móu): Historic temple dedicated to the gods of literature and martial arts. Ngong Ping Village (昂坪村 Ángpíng Cūn): Cultural village near the Tian Tan Buddha with shops and restaurants. Sai Kung Town (西贡镇 Xīgòng Zhèn): Fishing town with seafood restaurants, hiking trails, and beaches. Hong Kong Heritage Museum (香港文化博物馆 Xiānggǎng Wénhuà Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's art, culture, and history. PMQ (元创方 Yuán Chuàng Fāng): Creative hub with shops, studios, and exhibitions in a historic building. Golden Bauhinia Square (金紫荆广场 Jīn Zǐjīng Guǎngchǎng): Landmark square with a giant bauhinia statue and harbor views. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade (尖沙咀海滨长廊 Jiānshāzuǐ Hǎibīn Chángláng): Waterfront promenade with views of Victoria Harbour and the skyline. Repulse Bay (浅水湾 Qiǎnshuǐ Wān): Scenic beach with golden sands, clear water, and beachside dining. Mai Po Nature Reserve (米埔自然保护区 Mǐbù Zìrán Bǎohùqū): Wetlands with birdwatching hides, mangroves, and wildlife. Hong Kong Museum of Art (香港艺术馆 Xiānggǎng Yìshù Guǎn): Exhibits on Chinese and international art in a modern building. Star Ferry (天星小轮 Tiānxīng Xiǎolún): Iconic ferry service between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Lugard Road Lookout (盧吉道 Lu Jídào): Scenic trail with views of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline. Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre (香港文物探知中心 Xiānggǎng Wénwù Tànzhī Zhōngxīn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's archaeology, heritage, and history. Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum (孙中山纪念馆 Sūn Zhōngshān Jìniànguǎn): Museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen. Hong Kong Tramways (香港电车 Xiānggǎng Diànchē): Historic tram system running along Hong Kong Island's north coast. Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre (香港文物探知中心 Xiānggǎng Wénwù Tànzhī Zhōngxīn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's archaeology, heritage, and history. Lung Fu Shan Country Park (龙虎山郊野公园 Lónghǔ Shān Jiāoyě Gōngyuán): Hiking trails and scenic views near Victoria Peak. Hong Kong Park (香港公园 Xiānggǎng Gōngyuán): Urban park with aviaries, a greenhouse, and tranquil gardens. Dragon's Back Trail (龙脊径 Lóngjǐ Jìng): Scenic hiking trail with panoramic views of the coastline and islands.

Located within the LingYing Scenic Area, the temple lies in a beautiful and tranquil setting. With Go Around China ...

With Wei's Travel ...

The Grand Buddha at LingShan (Língshān Dà Fó) is the largest bronze Buddha In China with a height of 88 meters. It is located in WuXi, JiangSu province. It was completed in 1996.

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With Andy see the World ... Visitor Guide to ShanHaiGuan Overview ShanHaiGuan, located in QinHuangDao City, HeBei Province, is a renowned historical site known as the "First Pass Under Heaven." It is one of the most well-preserved and strategically important passes of the Great Wall of China, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into China's ancient military history and stunning coastal scenery. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is QinHuangDao Beidaihe Airport (BPE), located about 20 kilometers from ShanHaiGuan. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to ShanHaiGuan. By Train: ShanHaiGuan Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like BeiJing, TianJin, and Shenyang. High-speed trains make it convenient to reach ShanHaiGuan from these cities. By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities, including QinHuangDao and TianJin. The main bus station in ShanHaiGuan is ShanHaiGuan Long-Distance Bus Station. Getting Around Walking: The historic area of ShanHaiGuan is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient architecture and fortifications. Biking: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and nearby attractions at your own pace. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of ShanHaiGuan and QinHuangDao. Main Attractions First Pass Under Heaven (Zhenyuan Tower) This iconic gate is the easternmost point of the Great Wall and marks the starting point of the ancient defense line. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Great Wall stretching towards the mountains and the sea. Old Dragon's Head (Laolongtou) Located where the Great Wall meets the Bohai Sea, the Old Dragon's Head is a dramatic and picturesque site. The fortifications extend into the sea, resembling a dragon drinking water. It's a unique and breathtaking part of the Great Wall. ShanHaiGuan Great Wall Museum The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history, construction, and significance of the Great Wall. Exhibits include artifacts, models, and interactive displays that bring the history of this monumental structure to life. Jiumenkou Great Wall This section of the Great Wall is unique for its series of nine gates and the river that flows beneath it. The Jiumenkou Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating look at ancient military engineering. Wang Family Courtyard This well-preserved traditional courtyard residence offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy family during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The courtyard is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and traditional furnishings. Local Cuisine ShanHaiGuan's cuisine is influenced by its coastal location and northern Chinese culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes: Seafood: Fresh seafood from the Bohai Sea, including fish, shrimp, and crab, is a highlight of local dining. QinHuangDao Dumplings: These dumplings are known for their thin skins and generous fillings, often served with a dipping sauce. Jiaozi (Dumplings): A variety of steamed or boiled dumplings filled with meat, vegetables, or seafood. Local Snacks: Try street food such as fried dough twists, roasted sweet potatoes, and various grilled skewers. Shopping Local Handicrafts: ShanHaiGuan is known for its traditional handicrafts, including paper-cutting, clay figurines, and embroidery. These items make for unique souvenirs. Antique Markets: Explore local antique markets for historical artifacts, vintage items, and collectibles. Seafood Markets: Purchase fresh or dried seafood to take home or enjoy while you're in the area. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel QinHuangDao or the Sheraton QinHuangDao Beidaihe Hotel, both offering excellent amenities and service. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Best Western Junyu Grand Hotel and QinHuangDao Grand Hotel provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the ShanHaiGuan Youth Hostel offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit ShanHaiGuan 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: ShanHaiGuan is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the historical sites, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion ShanHaiGuan, with its rich history, strategic importance, and stunning coastal scenery, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient fortifications, savoring fresh seafood, or strolling along the Great Wall, ShanHaiGuan provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this fascinating destination in HeBei Province.

Scenes from the Great Wall Marathon 2013 ...