Chinese New Year lights and atmosphere, ShangHai

A film by kinabaloo.com ...

Filmed in 2007

A guide to one of China's most vibrant cities ...

With Yasmine's Journey ...

With Blondie in China ... Visitor Guide to DunHuang, GanSu Province Overview DunHuang, located in GanSu Province, is a city of historical and cultural significance, famous for its strategic position on the ancient Silk Road and its remarkable Buddhist art. The city is best known for the Mogao Caves, a complex of Buddhist cave temples, as well as its stunning desert landscapes and historical relics. Getting There By Air: DunHuang Airport (DNH) is the nearest airport, located about 13 kilometers southeast of the city center. The airport has regular flights from major cities like BeiJing, ShangHai, and Xi'an. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the city center. By Train: DunHuang Railway Station connects the city with various destinations across China. The station is located about 12 kilometers from the city center, and you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the main attractions. By Bus: Long-distance buses from nearby cities and provinces also provide access to DunHuang. The main bus station is located in the city center, making it convenient for travelers. Getting Around Public Transport: DunHuang has a local bus system that connects major tourist spots and the city center. Buses are an economical way to get around. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ensure to have your destination written in Chinese for ease of communication. Biking: Bike rentals are available for those who prefer a more active way to explore the city and its surroundings. Main Attractions Mogao Caves The Mogao Caves, also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and the highlight of DunHuang. The caves contain thousands of Buddhist statues and murals dating back to the 4th century, showcasing exquisite art and religious devotion. Crescent Lake and Singing Sand Dunes Located about 6 kilometers south of DunHuang, Crescent Lake is an oasis surrounded by the towering Singing Sand Dunes. The contrast of the lush green lake against the golden sand is a sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, and hiking in the area. Yumen Pass (Jade Gate Pass) The Yumen Pass is a historic site that served as a vital checkpoint on the Silk Road. The ruins offer a glimpse into the ancient trade routes and the military significance of the area. Yangguan Pass Yangguan Pass, along with Yumen Pass, was an important gateway on the Silk Road. The site includes remnants of ancient walls and watchtowers, and a museum that provides historical context. Historical Significance DunHuang has a rich history as a major stop on the Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between China and the West. The city's strategic location made it a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and artistic traditions. The Mogao Caves were established as a place of worship and meditation, attracting Buddhist monks and pilgrims. Over the centuries, the caves became a repository of religious art, texts, and artifacts, making them one of the most significant cultural heritage sites in China. Local Cuisine While visiting DunHuang, you can enjoy a variety of local GanSu dishes. Here are some recommendations: Beef Noodles: A signature dish of GanSu Province, featuring hand-pulled noodles in a flavorful beef broth. Yellow Noodles with Donkey Meat: A unique local specialty, featuring tender donkey meat served with yellow wheat noodles. DunHuang Toasted Buns: Crispy buns filled with minced meat and spices, a popular snack in the region. Shopping Shazhou Night Market: A vibrant market offering a variety of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. Silk Road Markets: Several markets in DunHuang sell traditional Silk Road goods, including silk products, jade, and antiques. Local Shops: Numerous shops in the city center offer a range of local specialties, such as dried fruits, nuts, and unique crafts. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: DunHuang offers several high-end hotels with excellent amenities and services, such as the DunHuang Hotel and the Silk Road DunHuang Hotel. Mid-Range Hotels: There are numerous mid-range options providing comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, including international chains and local boutique hotels. 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 DunHuang 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. Bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan to spend time outdoors, especially in the desert areas. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious 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: The attractions in DunHuang offer a mix of historical significance and natural beauty. Plan your visit to include both leisurely activities and sightseeing to fully appreciate the area's offerings. Conclusion DunHuang, with its rich history, stunning desert landscapes, and cultural heritage, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're exploring the ancient Mogao Caves, enjoying the serene beauty of Crescent Lake, or delving into the city's Silk Road history, DunHuang promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time in this extraordinary city in GanSu Province.

With Jason Fung ...

ShānDōng lies on the coast in east China, roughly halfway between BeiJing and ShangHai. Provincial capital : JiNan. Also includes the city of QuFu, the birthplace of Confucius. Other well-known cities include QingDao, ZaoZhuang, YanTai, WeiFang, JiNing, LinYi and DeZhou. Among others, ShanDong is known for TaiShan sacred mountain, a large number of natural springs that arise from the mountains to the west (ShanDong means 'East of the Mountains), DaMing Lake formed from the spring waters, LaoShan Scenic Area, Thousand Buddha Mountain, LingYan Temple - one of the 4 most famous temples (四大名刹) from the Tang dynasty, PengLai Pavilion, wine-making and its distinctive cuisine, partly centered on seafood.

With MeetWorld ... GuiZhou Province visitor guide Overview GuiZhou Province, located in the southwestern part of China, is known for its stunning karst landscapes, rich ethnic diversity, and vibrant cultural heritage. The province is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural experiences, offering visitors a chance to explore everything from ancient villages to breathtaking mountains and rivers. Natural Attractions HuangGuoShu Waterfall Location: Anshun City. Highlights: One of the largest waterfalls in China, HuangGuoShu Waterfall is a spectacular sight with its powerful cascades and scenic surroundings. Visitors can explore the waterfall from various viewpoints and even walk behind it for a unique perspective. Fanjing Mountain Location: Tongren City. Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fanjing Mountain is renowned for its unique rock formations, diverse flora and fauna, and spiritual significance. The Red Cloud Golden Summit and the Mushroom Stone are must-see landmarks. Libo Karst Forest Location: Libo County. Highlights: Part of the South China Karst UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Libo Karst Forest features stunning karst landscapes, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers. The area is ideal for hiking and exploring unique geological formations. Ethnic Villages and Cultural Experiences Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village Location: Leishan County. Highlights: The largest Miao village in China, Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village offers a deep dive into Miao culture with traditional stilt houses, vibrant festivals, and daily folk performances. It's a perfect place to experience Miao customs and hospitality. Langde Miao Village Location: Leishan County. Highlights: Known for its well-preserved wooden houses and rich cultural heritage, Langde Miao Village offers visitors a chance to witness traditional Miao crafts, such as embroidery and silverwork, and participate in cultural activities. Zhaoxing Dong Village Location: Liping County. Highlights: One of the largest Dong villages in China, Zhaoxing Dong Village is famous for its Drum Towers, Wind and Rain Bridges, and traditional wooden architecture. The village is known for its Dong singing and dance performances. Outdoor Activities Hiking and Trekking GuiZhou offers numerous trails for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. From the karst landscapes of Libo to the sacred peaks of Fanjing Mountain, there are trails suitable for all levels of hikers. Rafting and Boating The rivers and lakes of GuiZhou provide excellent opportunities for rafting and boating. The Wujiang River and the Dragon King Cave area are popular spots for water-based activities. Local Cuisine GuiZhou cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, often incorporating sour and fermented ingredients. Some must-try dishes include: **Sour Fish Soup**: A tangy and spicy fish soup that is a local favorite. **Guizhou-style Hot Pot**: Featuring a variety of meats and vegetables cooked in a spicy broth. **Miao Sour Soup Fish**: A traditional Miao dish with a unique sour flavor. **Sticky Rice Cakes**: A popular snack made from glutinous rice and various fillings. Accommodation GuiZhou offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels in major cities like Guiyang to traditional guesthouses in ethnic villages. Staying in a local guesthouse provides a more authentic experience and a chance to interact with the local people. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit GuiZhou is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting There: GuiZhou is accessible by air, with Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport serving as the main gateway. The province is also well-connected by train and bus. Respect Local Customs: When visiting ethnic villages, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Pack Accordingly: Bring comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and rain gear if visiting during the rainy season.