ChongQing 重庆 city

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 LongMeiMei in GuiZhou ... Bonus film - veggie feast with all the vegetables in the yard ...

With Sun Kissed Bucket List ... XiZhou Ancient Town Visitor Guide XiZhou Ancient Town is a gem of Yunnan Province, located approximately 20 kilometers from Dali’s old town. Nestled along the shores of the serene Erhai Lake, XiZhou offers a unique blend of rich Bai culture, stunning ancient architecture, and a tranquil environment, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a more intimate and traditional experience. Overview Location: XiZhou is situated within the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture and is renowned for its well-preserved Bai minority culture. Famous For: Traditional Bai houses, ancient courtyards, folk performances, unique local cuisine, and vibrant markets. Getting There From Dali: You can take a bus or taxi from Dali Old Town (20-30 minutes). From Kunming: XiZhou is about a 5-hour drive from Kunming. Buses to Dali are available, and from Dali, you can take local transportation to XiZhou. Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). Top Attractions in XiZhou Yan Family Courtyard (Yan Jia Da Yuan): The most famous ancient residence in XiZhou, showcasing traditional Bai architecture with beautiful wood carvings, white-washed walls, and murals. Bai Minority Culture and Houses: Explore over 150 well-preserved traditional Bai houses with intricate designs and courtyards. XiZhou Morning Market: A bustling market full of fresh produce, traditional snacks, and local crafts. Arrive early (7 AM – 9 AM) to experience the market at its liveliest. Erhai Lake: A stunning lake where you can walk, cycle, or take boat rides to enjoy the natural beauty. Shuanglang Town: A trendy nearby town famous for its artistic vibe and boutique guesthouses. A perfect day trip from XiZhou. Cultural Experiences Bai Minority Dress and Dance: Experience colorful traditional Bai clothing and catch performances of traditional dances during festivals or market days. Tea Culture at XiZhou: Enjoy traditional tea-tasting experiences in local homes or guesthouses. Local Delicacies XiZhou Baba (喜洲粑粑): A crispy, savory (or sweet) flatbread made from wheat flour. Try it fresh from street vendors. Dali Cheese (Rushan, 乳扇): A Bai specialty cheese, often grilled or fried, that you can find throughout the town. Erhai Fish: Fresh fish dishes prepared from the lake's bounty, best enjoyed at lakeside restaurants. Rose Petal Cake (玫瑰饼): A delicate pastry filled with rose petal jam. This treat is especially famous in XiZhou, where roses are grown locally. Its fragrant sweetness makes it a popular souvenir. Where to Stay Local Homestays: Family-run guesthouses, often in traditional Bai homes, offering an intimate experience of Bai culture. Boutique Hotels: For more luxury, boutique hotels combine modern amenities with traditional architecture. Tips for Visitors Language: Most people speak the local Bai dialect, but Mandarin Chinese is sufficient for communication. English is not widely spoken. Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and ask permission before photographing people. Shopping: Support local artisans by purchasing handmade textiles, embroidery, and silverware from the markets. Nearby Attractions Dali Old Town: A larger, more developed town known for its old city walls, temples, and lively atmosphere. Cangshan Mountain: Offers hiking trails, cable cars, and panoramic views of Erhai Lake and Dali’s landscape. Conclusion XiZhou Ancient Town is an ideal destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in authentic Bai culture, ancient architecture, and the peaceful lakeside environment of Yunnan. Whether you're exploring ancient homes, tasting local delicacies, or enjoying the beauty of Erhai Lake, XiZhou provides a rich cultural experience in a relaxed setting.

With Einzelgänger ... Bonus film - Erich Fromm on 'To Have or To Be' ...

自製貴州剁椒醬，香辣有味 放一年都不會壞的美食，最後還有捕魚技巧哦 | 野小妹

Follow this traveler's videos of places walked and adored. Discover some of China's incredibly diverse natural landscapes. Including JiuZhaiGou, the YuLong River, the ShiLin Stone Forest, DunHuang desert and oasis, Tiger Leaping Gorge and ZhangJiaJie. Chinese culture is founded on the harmony of people and nature and the reverence of natural beauty ... Plus, the beautiful Flight of the Dragon ...

HuNan province. With Walk East ...