ChongQing 重庆 night drive

Plus, BeiJing ... And more ...

With Rafa Goes Around! ... Bonus film - on smartphone life ...

Filmed in the winter of 2011 / 2012.

Beautiful Natural Landscapes Tour of China Week 1-2: Southwest China Explore the karst landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo, including Li River cruises and bamboo rafting, GuangXi province. Visit the terraced rice fields of Longji and ethnic minority villages, GuangXi province. Explore the unique rock formations and caves of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, HuNan province. Week 3: Yunnan Province Discover the diverse landscapes of Yunnan, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Three Parallel Rivers and the Dongchuan Red Land. Visit the ancient town of Lijiang and hike Tiger Leaping Gorge. Explore the picturesque scenery of Shangri-La and visit the Songzanlin Monastery. Week 4: Tibet Experience the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Tibet, including the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. Visit Namtso Lake, one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world. Explore the Everest Base Camp and hike in the Himalayas.

One of China's most complete ancient cities, it was formerly named XiangFan. With Walk East ...

With Beautiful China ... Nanxun Ancient Water Town Visitor Guide Introduction Nestled in the heart of Zhejiang Province, Nanxun Ancient Water Town is a hidden gem among China's water towns. Known for its well-preserved architecture, serene canals, and rich cultural heritage, Nanxun offers a glimpse into the past with a blend of Chinese and Western influences. This guide will provide you with everything you need to explore Nanxun's historic streets, discover its cultural treasures, and enjoy its tranquil beauty. Key Attractions 1. Xiaolian Manor (Little Lotus Garden) Built during the late Qing Dynasty, Xiaolian Manor is one of Nanxun's most famous landmarks. This classical Chinese garden features a picturesque pond, rockeries, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The manor was the private residence of a wealthy silk merchant and offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the past. 2. Jiayetang Library Jiayetang Library, founded by a wealthy silk merchant named Liu Chenggan, is one of China's oldest private libraries. The library's collection includes ancient manuscripts, rare books, and classic Chinese literature. The architecture is a blend of traditional Chinese and Western styles, reflecting the cultural exchange that characterized Nanxun's history. 3. Zhang Shiming Mansion The Zhang Shiming Mansion is an exquisite example of traditional Chinese residential architecture with Western influences. The mansion's intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and spacious courtyards provide a fascinating insight into the lives of Nanxun's wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 4. Guanghui Palace (Guanghui Taoist Temple) Guanghui Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Nanxun, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty. This Taoist temple is dedicated to the worship of the Taoist deity Xuanwu. Visitors can admire the temple's ancient architecture, Taoist sculptures, and serene atmosphere. Cultural Activities Nanxun is not only about its historical architecture but also about the cultural experiences that bring the town to life. Here are some activities to immerse yourself in the local culture: Boat Rides on the Canals: Experience the charm of Nanxun from the water by taking a leisurely boat ride along its tranquil canals. The boat rides offer a unique perspective of the ancient bridges, white-washed houses, and overhanging willow trees. Silk Weaving Demonstrations: Nanxun has a long history of silk production. Visit one of the local silk weaving workshops to see traditional techniques in action and learn about the town's silk-making heritage. Tea Tasting: Enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at one of the local teahouses. Savor the flavors of locally grown green teas while relaxing by the water's edge. Calligraphy and Painting Workshops: Join a workshop to learn the art of Chinese calligraphy and painting. These hands-on experiences offer insight into traditional Chinese arts and crafts. Dining Options Nanxun offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving traditional Chinese dishes to charming cafes. Here are some recommendations: Local Dishes: Try the famous Nanxun braised pork, lotus root soup, and other local delicacies at traditional restaurants like Nongfu Restaurant and Nanxun Old Town Cuisine. Waterfront Cafés: Enjoy a relaxing meal or a cup of coffee at one of the quaint waterfront cafés, where you can take in the scenic views of the canals and historic buildings. Street Food: Explore the narrow streets and alleys to find street vendors selling snacks like rice dumplings, tofu pudding, and steamed buns. These local treats are perfect for a quick bite. Teahouses: Visit traditional teahouses like Wangfu Teahouse for an authentic tea-drinking experience. Pair your tea with local pastries and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Nanxun, when the weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful. Getting There: Nanxun is located about 120 kilometers from Shanghai and 80 kilometers from Hangzhou. It can be reached by bus or car. Regular buses run from Shanghai and Hangzhou to Nanxun. What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you will be exploring cobbled streets and bridges. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sunny days, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Language: Mandarin is the primary language spoken in Nanxun. Learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be helpful. Entrance Fees: Some attractions in Nanxun, such as Xiaolian Manor and Zhang Shiming Mansion, may have an entrance fee. It's a good idea to carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards. Respect Local Culture: Nanxun is a place of historical and cultural significance. Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Taking photos inside temples may be prohibited.

With Clare Traveling Pandaland ... Tengchong, Yunnan Province: A Visitor's Guide Tengchong, located in the western part of Yunnan Province near the border with Myanmar, is a gem of natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and historical significance, it offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. How to Get There By Air: Tengchong Tuofeng Airport connects the city to major Chinese cities like Kunming and Chengdu. By Road: A scenic drive from Kunming takes around 8–10 hours by car or bus, passing through the mountainous Yunnan terrain. Top Attractions 1. Rehai Hot Springs Why Visit: Known as "Hot Sea," this geothermal area has over 80 hot spring pools, each with unique properties. Some are perfect for a relaxing soak, while others are too hot and are used for steaming food or traditional therapies. Don’t Miss: Try the therapeutic spa treatments or soak in an outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery. 2. Tengchong Volcanic Geothermal National Park Highlights: Home to dormant volcanic craters and lava fields, this park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. Activities: Climb up volcanoes like Dakongshan (Large Empty Mountain) for panoramic views, or explore the Lava Stone Forest. 3. Heshun Ancient Town Why Visit: A quaint town filled with cobbled streets, traditional Yunnan-style homes, and a rich history of overseas Chinese who returned home. Must-See: Visit the Heshun Library, one of the oldest private libraries in China, and explore the charming teahouses and ancestral halls. 4. Beihai Wetlands Overview: This serene area features floating meadows and diverse bird species. Activities: Take a boat ride through the wetlands or enjoy bird-watching during migratory seasons. 5. Yunfeng Mountain Why Visit: A sacred Taoist site with an ancient temple at its peak. What to Do: Hike or take a cable car up the mountain, then enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 6. Dianmian Anti-Japanese War Memorial Historical Importance: Tengchong was a key battleground during WWII. This memorial honors the local and international soldiers who fought against Japanese forces. What to See: Artifacts, photographs, and the reconstructed battle sites. Cultural Highlights Traditional Crafts: Tengchong is famous for its jade carving. Visit local workshops to see artisans at work or purchase unique jade jewelry. Ethnic Diversity: Experience the culture of the Bai, Dai, and Lisu ethnic groups through their festivals, dances, and cuisines. Local Cuisine Signature Dishes: Guoqiao Mixian (Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles): A flavorful noodle soup with a variety of toppings. Bamboo Rice: Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes. Tengchong Fried Pork: Crispy pork stir-fried with local spices. Mushroom Hotpot: A must-try with Yunnan’s diverse range of wild mushrooms. Snacks: Don’t miss the fengmi baba (honey glutinous rice cake) or fried potato balls. Best Time to Visit Spring and Autumn (March–May, September–November): These seasons offer mild weather and clear skies, perfect for outdoor exploration. Winter (December–February): Ideal for enjoying the hot springs, though mornings and evenings can be chilly. Shopping Jade and Gemstones: Tengchong is renowned for its high-quality jade. Look for authentic pieces in certified stores. Local Handicrafts: Embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and bamboo products make great souvenirs. Tea: Yunnan is known for its Pu’er and black teas, widely available in Tengchong. Practical Tips Language: Mandarin is widely spoken, though some locals speak Yunnan dialects. Learn a few basic phrases for ease of communication. Currency: Bring enough cash, as rural areas may not accept cards or digital payments. Transportation: Rent a bicycle or use tuk-tuks to explore small towns like Heshun. Clothing: Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate between day and night, especially in the mountains. Day Trips Ruili: A bustling border town with vibrant markets and a mix of Chinese and Burmese cultures. Myanmar Border: Visit the border towns to experience the unique blend of Chinese and Burmese influences. Tengchong is a destination that beautifully combines natural wonders, cultural depth, and historical significance, offering something for every traveler.

Near the border with Vietnam.