Coming together – the Chinese New Year 中国新年

What is going on in geo-politics, including Ben Norton and Daniel Dumbrill ...

I got you babe (Sonny and Cher) ... Fix you (Coldplay) ... Wish you were here (Pink Floyd) ... Always remember us this way (Lady Gaga) ... Loving you, too long (Etta James) ... In denial (Gloria Tells) ... Closer ... Nothing else matters (Metallica) ... The scientist (Coldplay) ...

HeiLongJiang province, with Katherine's Journey to the East 阳离子东游记, with surprise guest - Charlie ...

In BeiJing alone, there are around 200,000 places to eat, so you'll never be far from a tasty meal and there is so much to try that China is very much a foodie heaven. Here's BeiJingBuzzz's cheat sheet of popular food dishes that you will love. Feel free to print out for personal use ... Huo Guo (火锅) : 'Hotpot' - order what you like and cook it in a steaming broth that can be spicy, mild or both. Served with a sesame sauce topped with coriander and / or spring onion; with vinegar and soy sauce as additional options. Thinly sliced meats, all manner of vegetables, noodles, eggs, tofu and more. Be sure to try Dong Dofu (iced tofu) and Dofu skin - super delicious in Huo Guo. There are many independents but you cannot go wrong if you see a XiaBu XiaBu, a very popular restaurant chain. Mābo Dōfu (麻婆豆腐) : soft beancurd in a spicy sauce with minced pork BaoZi (包子) : steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables JiaoZi (饺子) : boiled or pan-fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables RouJiaMo (肉夹馍) : a sandwich made with flatbread and filled with meat (most commonly pork) CongYou Bing (葱油饼) : spring onion / scallion pancakes - a savory flatbread made with scallions and flour ZhengJiao (蒸饺) : steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with meat or seafood ZongZi (粽子) : glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves GouBuLi BaoZi (狗不理包子) : steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables, popular in Tianjin DouHua (豆花) : sweet tofu pudding XiaoLongBao (小笼包) : steamed dumplings filled with meat or seafood and soup Xī Hóng Shì Chǎo JīDàn (西红柿炒蛋): egg and tomato - a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, it is often a simple and comforting dish, that can be found in many Chinese home-style cooking. It is typically made by stir-frying diced tomatoes and beaten eggs together with some seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and sometimes soy sauce. DanDan Mian (担担面): a spicy Szechuan noodle dish made with thin wheat noodles, a spicy chili oil-based sauce, and often ground meat JianShui Zhu (建水煮): fried vermicelli noodles popular in Yunnan province LanZhou LaMian (兰州拉面): hand-pulled noodles popular in Lanzhou, Gansu province ReGan Mian (热干面): Wuhan hot dry noodles - a spicy dish made with thin wheat noodles, chili oil and ground meat, popular in Wuhan, Hubei province ZhaJiang Mian (炸酱面): a dish of thick wheat noodles served with a fermented soybean paste sauce and vegetables, popular in northern China ZhaJiangMian (炸酱面): a dish of thick wheat noodles served with a bean paste sauce, popular in northeastern China GuoTie (锅贴): Chinese fried dumplings MaLaTang (麻辣烫): a spicy hotpot popular in Sichuan and Chongqing Di San Xian (第三鲜): a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, typically found in northern China, it is a type of stir-fry dish made with three main ingredients: potatoes, eggplant, and bell peppers, it is also called "Three Fresh" or "Three Precious Vegetables". It is typically stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and scallions, and seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, and sometimes oyster sauce. GōngBǎo JīDīng (宫保鸡丁) : also transcribed Gong Bao, Kung Pao or Kung Po, is a spicy, stir-fried Chinese dish made with cubes of chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. A classic dish in Sichuan cuisine. JīSī Liáng Miàn (鸡丝凉面) : Chinese Chicken Noodle Salad - Chinese chicken noodle salad features noodles tossed in a nutty savory sesame sauce and topped with shredded chicken and cucumber. Hei Jiao Niu Liu (黑椒牛柳) - Sliced tender beef with onions, peppers and black pepper. Huo Guo - hot pot There are also around 6,000 McDonalds in China, plus Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut, Subway and more. And if you like cooking from scratch yourself, you'll find many huge supermarkets plus local markets.

Night Walk In ChangSha Christmas Carnival | 4K HDR Festival Party| China | 湖南 | 长沙 | 世界之窗节日秀

With Men's Journal ... About the GongGa Trail Mount GongGa, also known as Minya Konka, is the highest peak in SiChuan province, China, standing at 7,556 meters (24,790 feet). The Gongga Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience, featuring stunning landscapes, glaciers, and traditional Tibetan villages. It is a popular destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the remote and pristine beauty of the region. Hiking Trails Hailuogou Glacier Park Trail The Hailuogou Glacier Park Trail is one of the most accessible routes on Mount Gongga. It features stunning views of glaciers, hot springs, and lush forests. This trail is suitable for trekkers of all levels and can be completed in 2-3 days. Yulongxi Trail The Yulongxi Trail offers a more challenging trek with breathtaking scenery, including high-altitude lakes, meadows, and snow-capped peaks. This trail takes about 4-5 days to complete and requires a good level of fitness. Kangding to Gongga Monastery Trail This trail starts in Kangding and leads to the Gongga Monastery, providing trekkers with an opportunity to experience local Tibetan culture and stunning natural beauty. The trek takes approximately 5-6 days. Old Chengdu-Kangding Tea-Horse Road This historic trail follows the ancient trade route, offering a blend of cultural and natural attractions. Trekkers can enjoy scenic vistas, traditional villages, and historical sites along the way. The trek can take 7-10 days depending on the chosen route. Famous Guesthouses Hailuogou Grand Hotel Located at the entrance of Hailuogou Glacier Park, Hailuogou Grand Hotel offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to the glacier. It is a great base for starting the trek. Gongga Shan Hotel Situated in Kangding, Gongga Shan Hotel provides modern amenities and a convenient location for trekkers heading towards Mount Gongga. The hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Konka International Youth Hostel Located in the town of Luding, Konka International Youth Hostel is popular among backpackers and budget travelers. It offers basic accommodation and a friendly atmosphere. Minya Konka Guesthouse Near the Gongga Monastery, Minya Konka Guesthouse provides an authentic Tibetan experience with traditional architecture and hospitality. It is a perfect stop for trekkers on the Kangding to Gongga Monastery Trail. Transport Mount Gongga and the Gongga Trail are accessible from major cities in Sichuan province. Here are some ways to get there: From Chengdu: Buses and private transfers are available from Chengdu to Kangding, taking approximately 6-7 hours. From Kangding, you can hire a local guide or take a bus to the trailhead. From Kangding: Local buses and taxis can take you to various trailheads, including Hailuogou Glacier Park and Yulongxi. The journey time varies depending on the destination. By Car: Renting a car is a flexible option for those who prefer driving. The roads to Kangding and surrounding areas are well-maintained, offering scenic views along the way.

With This Is SiChuan ... Mount Emei Visitor Guide: Natural Beauty & Practical Travel Tips Mount Emei (Emei Shan), located in Sichuan Province, is one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its mist-shrouded peaks, ancient temples, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, it is a popular pilgrimage site and a destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. This guide will help you explore Mount Emei’s natural beauty while providing practical travel advice for a seamless visit. Golden Summit (Jinding) Overview: The Golden Summit is the highest point on Mount Emei, offering spectacular views, including the famous "Sea of Clouds." At an elevation of 3,077 meters, the summit is a spiritual hub for Buddhists, with the massive statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva serving as a highlight for visitors. Key Highlights: Golden Buddha Statue: The 48-meter tall statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva with ten faces is a stunning work of art, representing the mount's spiritual significance. Sea of Clouds: On clear mornings, you can witness the mesmerizing "Sea of Clouds" phenomenon, where the clouds form a dense layer beneath the summit. Sunrise & Sunset: Watching the sunrise or sunset from the Golden Summit is a breathtaking experience, as the sky turns vibrant shades of orange and pink. Travel Tip: Be prepared for the altitude by wearing warm clothing, especially in the early morning or evening. It’s recommended to take the cable car from Leidongping to save energy, but hikers can also make the journey on foot. Baoguo Temple Area Overview: Baoguo Temple is the starting point for most visitors to Mount Emei. Located at the base of the mountain, this area is home to one of the most important temples and serves as a hub for those preparing to explore the mountain. Key Highlights: Baoguo Temple: Built during the Ming Dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the worship of various Buddhist deities. It is an excellent place to start learning about the religious history of Mount Emei. Emei Buddhist Cultural Museum: Located within the temple grounds, this museum provides insight into the history of Buddhism in the region, along with relics and artwork. Travel Tip: Baoguo Temple is a peaceful place to begin your ascent. The surrounding area has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets, making it a convenient base for longer stays. Wannian Temple (Ten-Thousand-Year Temple) Overview: One of the oldest and most significant temples on Mount Emei, Wannian Temple dates back over 1,600 years. The temple is perched on the mountainside and offers great views as well as a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection. Key Highlights: Bronze Statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva: The temple houses a famous bronze statue of Samantabhadra riding an elephant, which is a major draw for pilgrims. Surrounding Trails: The area around Wannian Temple is filled with scenic trails that offer opportunities to explore the mountain’s flora and fauna. Travel Tip: Visitors can either hike to Wannian Temple or take the cable car from Wuxiangang Parking Lot. The trails offer stunning views but can be steep, so bring appropriate footwear. Qingyin Pavilion Overview: Qingyin Pavilion is a tranquil spot located halfway up Mount Emei, offering a place for rest and meditation. Surrounded by lush forests, clear streams, and waterfalls, it is an ideal location to experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of the mountain. Key Highlights: Scenic Bridges: The twin bridges crossing the crystal-clear waters are perfect for photos, and the sound of the running stream adds to the pavilion’s peaceful ambiance. Washing Elephant Pool: Located nearby, this sacred pool is associated with Buddhist mythology and is a quiet spot for reflection. Travel Tip: This is an ideal resting spot for those hiking up the mountain. There are small tea houses nearby where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds. Monkeys of Mount Emei Overview: The Tibetan macaques are a famous and sometimes mischievous presence on Mount Emei. These monkeys roam freely across the mountain and are often found near tourist areas. While they can be entertaining to watch, visitors should take care as the monkeys may attempt to snatch food or belongings. Key Highlights: Monkey Eco-Zone: Located along the main hiking trail, this area is where the monkeys are most active. Visitors can observe them up close but should avoid direct interaction. Travel Tip: Keep your belongings secure and do not feed the monkeys, as they can become aggressive. Stick to designated paths and follow the advice of local guides or staff to stay safe. Practical Travel Information for Mount Emei When to Visit The best time to visit Mount Emei is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the views are clear. Spring (April-May) offers blooming flowers, while autumn (September-October) provides colorful foliage. Winter visits are also possible, especially for those interested in snow-covered landscapes, but be prepared for cold conditions at higher altitudes. Getting to Mount Emei By Air: The closest airport is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, located about 150 kilometers away. From Chengdu, visitors can take a train or bus to Emeishan City. By Train: The high-speed train from Chengdu to Emeishan Station takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to the Baoguo Temple area, the starting point for exploring Mount Emei. By Bus: Regular buses run from Chengdu’s Xinnanmen Bus Station to Emeishan City, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Accommodation Visitors can stay in Emeishan City or in the Baoguo Temple area, which has a variety of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. For those wishing to stay on the mountain itself, there are guesthouses and monasteries offering simple lodging for a more immersive experience. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Cultural Sensitivity As Mount Emei is a sacred Buddhist site, visitors should show respect when visiting temples and monasteries. Modest clothing is recommended, and it’s important to be mindful of local customs, especially when interacting with monks or pilgrims. Refrain from taking photos in sacred spaces unless permission is explicitly granted. Food and Dining Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold, spicy flavors. In Emeishan, you can find local dishes such as hotpot, mapo tofu, and various noodle dishes. For a unique experience, try the vegetarian meals offered at the mountain's temples, which are simple yet flavorful and often include locally sourced ingredients. Important Note: Always carry your passport and tickets when visiting the mountain, especially for entrance to the different scenic areas and cable cars. Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Mount Emei Day 1: Arrive in Emeishan City, visit Baoguo Temple, and relax in the hot springs nearby. Day 2: Hike or take the cable car to the Golden Summit for sunrise. Explore the summit area before descending to Wannian Temple. Day 3: Spend the day exploring Qingyin Pavilion and the Monkey Eco-Zone. Enjoy a tea break at a mountain tea house before returning to Emeishan City.

With Flora and Note ... Bonus films - A weekend in ShangHai : with luisa reus ... Spring Festival in YuYuan, ShangHai : with Zina ...