Dance of the Silk Road and Long Long Ago …

With Walk East ... Bonus film - the Singing Sand Dunes of GanSu ... Visitor Guide to Chaka Salt Lake, QingHai Overview Chaka Salt Lake, located in the Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in QingHai Province, is a stunning natural wonder known for its mirror-like reflection of the sky. Often referred to as the "Mirror of the Sky," this salt lake offers breathtaking views and a unique travel experience. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is CaoJiabao Airport in XiNing, the capital of QingHai Province, located approximately 300 kilometers from Chaka Salt Lake. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to XiNing Railway Station, and then a train or bus to Chaka Town. By Train: You can take a train to Chaka Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like XiNing and Lhasa. From the station, you can take a local taxi or shuttle bus to the lake. By Bus: Long-distance buses from XiNing and other cities in QingHai Province can take you to Chaka Town. From there, local buses and taxis are available to reach the lake. Getting Around Walking: The best way to explore Chaka Salt Lake is on foot, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and take beautiful photographs. Local Transport: Taxis and shuttle buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of the lake area. Main Attractions Mirror Reflection The most famous feature of Chaka Salt Lake is its mirror-like surface, which perfectly reflects the sky and surrounding mountains. The best time to see this phenomenon is on a clear day, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors are most vibrant. Salt Sculptures The lake is surrounded by fascinating salt sculptures, created both naturally and by local artists. These sculptures add an artistic touch to the already stunning landscape. Chaka Salt Lake Scenic Area The scenic area offers well-maintained walkways, viewing platforms, and resting spots for visitors. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the natural beauty of the lake. Train Rides A narrow-gauge tourist train runs along the edge of the lake, offering a unique perspective and a convenient way to see more of the area. The train ride is especially popular among families and photographers. Stargazing Due to its high altitude and clear skies, Chaka Salt Lake is an excellent location for stargazing. On a clear night, you can see a breathtaking display of stars, making it a popular spot for astronomy enthusiasts. Local Cuisine While visiting Chaka Salt Lake, you can enjoy a variety of local and regional dishes. Here are some recommendations: Lamb Dishes: The region is known for its high-quality lamb, which is used in various dishes such as roasted lamb, lamb hotpot, and lamb kebabs. QingHai Yogurt: Made from yak milk, QingHai yogurt is thick, creamy, and slightly tangy. It is often served with honey or sugar. Tibetan Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Tibetan dishes such as tsampa (roasted barley flour), yak butter tea, and momos (dumplings). Shopping Salt Products: Chaka Salt Lake is a major producer of salt, and you can purchase various salt products, including salt crystals, salt lamps, and bath salts. Local Handicrafts: Explore shops for traditional Tibetan and Mongolian handicrafts, such as jewelry, textiles, and wooden carvings. Specialty Foods: Purchase local specialties such as dried yak meat, yak cheese, and Tibetan pastries. Accommodation Hotels: Chaka Town offers several hotels and guesthouses catering to different budgets, providing comfortable accommodations and easy access to the lake. Eco-Lodges: For a more unique experience, consider staying in an eco-lodge or yurt near the lake, which offers stunning views and a closer connection to nature. Historical Background of Chaka Salt Lake Chaka Salt Lake has a history of salt production dating back over 3,000 years. The lake's salt has been an essential resource for local communities, providing economic support and playing a crucial role in daily life. The name "Chaka" means "salt lake" in Tibetan, reflecting the area's significance in Tibetan culture. The lake has also been an important stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road, a trade route that connected China with Tibet and other regions. In recent years, Chaka Salt Lake has developed into a major tourist destination, attracting visitors with its unique natural beauty and mirror-like reflections. The local government has invested in infrastructure and facilities to enhance the visitor experience while preserving the lake's natural environment. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Chaka Salt Lake are summer (June to August) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the lake's reflections are most impressive. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. Sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen, is also recommended. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting nearby Tibetan and Mongolian communities. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: Chaka Salt Lake is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to enjoy the stunning views, visit local attractions, and savor the local cuisine. Conclusion Chaka Salt Lake, with its breathtaking mirror reflections, unique salt sculptures, and rich cultural heritage, offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience. Whether you're exploring the scenic area, enjoying local cuisine, or stargazing under the clear night sky, Chaka Salt Lake provides a serene and memorable escape. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this stunning destination in QingHai Province.

At the foot of the Western Hills in west BeiJing lies the large and beautiful Botanical Gardens ... Also well worth a visit is the nearby XiangShan Park, which is actually on the slopes of the Western Hills, with many scenic spots and quite a climb !

JǐNán is the provincial capital city of ShanDong province in east China. It is known as the 'City of Springs'. Including BaoTu Park and HongJiaLou ... Aerial views ...

ChongQing: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Chongqing Zoo (重庆动物园 Chóngqìng Dòngwùyuán): Visit pandas, tigers, and other animals in this zoo. Huguang Guild Hall (湖广会馆 Húguǎng Huìguǎn): Enjoy Sichuan opera performances and traditional arts. Three Gorges Museum (重庆中国三峡博物馆 Chóngqìng Zhōngguó Sānxiá Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of the Three Gorges region. Chongqing Science and Technology Museum (重庆科技馆 Chóngqìng Kējìguǎn): Discover interactive exhibits on science and technology. Chongqing Children's Library (重庆市儿童图书馆 Chóngqìng Shì Értóng Túshūguǎn): Explore a wide range of children's books and resources. Chongqing People's Square (重庆人民广场 Chóngqìng Rénmín Guǎngchǎng): Enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events in this central square. Chongqing Grand Theater (重庆大剧院 Chóngqìng Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances and concerts in this modern theater. Chongqing Happy Valley (重庆欢乐谷 Chóngqìng Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with thrilling rides and entertainment. Chongqing People's Park (重庆人民公园 Chóngqìng Rénmín Gōngyuán): Relax in green spaces and enjoy outdoor activities. Chongqing Zoo (重庆动物园 Chóngqìng Dòngwùyuán): Visit pandas, tigers, and other animals in this zoo. Huguang Guild Hall (湖广会馆 Húguǎng Huìguǎn): Enjoy Sichuan opera performances and traditional arts. Three Gorges Museum (重庆中国三峡博物馆 Chóngqìng Zhōngguó Sānxiá Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of the Three Gorges region. Chongqing Science and Technology Museum (重庆科技馆 Chóngqìng Kējìguǎn): Discover interactive exhibits on science and technology. Chongqing Children's Library (重庆市儿童图书馆 Chóngqìng Shì Értóng Túshūguǎn): Explore a wide range of children's books and resources. Chongqing People's Square (重庆人民广场 Chóngqìng Rénmín Guǎngchǎng): Enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events in this central square. Chongqing Grand Theater (重庆大剧院 Chóngqìng Dàjùyuàn): Attend performances and concerts in this modern theater. Chongqing Happy Valley (重庆欢乐谷 Chóngqìng Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with thrilling rides and entertainment. Chongqing People's Park (重庆人民公园 Chóngqìng Rénmín Gōngyuán): Relax in green spaces and enjoy outdoor activities. ChongQing: 30 More Places to Visit Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇 Cíqìkǒu Gǔzhèn): Explore historic streets, shops, and teahouses in this ancient town. Chongqing Art Museum (重庆美术馆 Chóngqìng Měishùguǎn): Discover contemporary and traditional Chinese art in this museum. Chongqing Great Hall of the People (重庆人民大礼堂 Chóngqìng Rénmín Dàlǐtáng): Visit this iconic building for cultural performances and events. Chongqing Wulong Karst National Geology Park (重庆武隆喀斯特国家地质公园 Chóngqìng Wǔlóng Kāsītè Guójiā Dìzhì Gōngyuán): Explore karst landscapes, caves, and natural wonders. Chongqing Chaotianmen Square (重庆朝天门广场 Chóngqìng Cháotiānmén Guǎngchǎng): Enjoy views of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers from this square. Chongqing Hongya Cave (重庆洪崖洞 Chóngqìng Hóngyá Dòng): Explore traditional architecture, shops, and restaurants in this cave complex. Chongqing Ronghui Hot Springs (重庆融汇温泉 Chóngqìng Rónghuì Wēnquán): Relax in natural hot springs and enjoy spa treatments. Chongqing Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street (重庆解放碑步行街 Chóngqìng Jiěfàngbēi Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for souvenirs, snacks, and electronics on this bustling street. Chongqing International Expo Center (重庆国际博览中心 Chóngqìng Guójì Bólǎn Zhōngxīn): Attend exhibitions, trade shows, and events in this modern venue. Chongqing Eling Park (重庆鹅岭公园 Chóngqìng Élǐng Gōngyuán): Enjoy panoramic views of Chongqing from this hilltop park. Chongqing Nanshan Botanical Garden (重庆南山植物园 Chóngqìng Nánshān Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy outdoor activities. Chongqing Stilwell Museum (重庆史迪威博物馆 Chóngqìng Shǐdíwēi Bówùguǎn): Learn about General Stilwell and World War II history in this museum. Chongqing Yangtze River Cableway (重庆长江索道 Chóngqìng Chángjiāng Suǒdào): Enjoy panoramic views of the Yangtze River from this cable car. Chongqing Railway Museum (重庆铁路博物馆 Chóngqìng Tiělù Bówùguǎn): Explore the history of railways in China at this museum. Chongqing Wansheng Black Valley (重庆万盛黑山谷 Chóngqìng Wànshèng Hēishān Gǔ): Discover scenic landscapes and outdoor activities in this valley. Chongqing Guanyin Bridge Pedestrian Street (重庆观音桥步行街 Chóngqìng Guānyīnqiáo Bùxíng Jiē): Shop for fashion, accessories, and souvenirs on this pedestrian street. Chongqing Wanzhou Pagoda (重庆万州白鹤塔 Chóngqìng Wànzhōu Báihè Tǎ): Visit this historic pagoda for panoramic views of the city. Chongqing Diaoyu Fortress (重庆钓鱼城 Chóngqìng Diàoyú Chéng): Explore ancient military fortifications and enjoy scenic views. Chongqing White Crane Forest Park (重庆白鹤林公园 Chóngqìng Báihè Lín Gōngyuán): Enjoy nature trails, wildlife, and birdwatching in this park. Chongqing Railway Museum (重庆铁路博物馆 Chóngqìng Tiělù Bówùguǎn): Explore the history of railways in China at this museum. Furong Cave (芙蓉洞 Fúróng Dòng): Discover stunning stalactites and stalagmites in this natural cave outside Chongqing. Qutang Gorge (瞿塘峡 Qútáng Xiá): Cruise through this scenic gorge on the Yangtze River.

With Rafa Goes Around! ... Bonus films - With Cyrus Janssen ... With Neel in China ... With KING KWESI ...

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Scenic Road Trip Routes from Dali to Lhasa Route Overview Traveling from Dali to Lhasa is an epic journey through some of China's most stunning landscapes. Here are two detailed scenic routes with notable stops along the way:   Route 1: Northern Route Day 1-2: Dali to Lijiang (Approx. 180 km) Route: Take the G214 National Road north from Dali to Lijiang. Highlights: Enjoy the scenic views along the way, including Erhai Lake and the ancient town of Lijiang. Day 3-4: Lijiang to Shangri-La (Zhongdian) (Approx. 180 km) Route: Continue on G214 National Road north to Shangri-La. Highlights: Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge and enjoy the views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Day 5: Shangri-La to Deqin (Approx. 180 km) Route: Stay on G214 National Road heading north to Deqin. Highlights: Explore Songzanlin Monastery in Shangri-La and enjoy the panoramic views of Meili Snow Mountain in Deqin. Day 6: Deqin to Markam (Approx. 220 km) Route: Take the G214 National Road, crossing into Tibet and continue to Markam. Highlights: Pass through the spectacular mountainous regions and along the Mekong River. Day 7: Markam to Zogang (Approx. 150 km) Route: From Markam, take the G318 National Road west towards Zogang. Highlights: Experience the dramatic high-altitude landscapes and valleys. Day 8: Zogang to Baxoi (Approx. 120 km) Route: Continue on the G318 National Road from Zogang to Baxoi. Highlights: Enjoy the rugged and scenic terrain along the way. Day 9: Baxoi to Ranwu (Approx. 160 km) Route: Stay on the G318 National Road heading west to Ranwu. Highlights: Pass by the beautiful Ranwu Lake, known for its clear waters and stunning reflections. Day 10: Ranwu to Bomi (Approx. 130 km) Route: Continue on G318 National Road from Ranwu to Bomi. Highlights: Drive through lush forests and alongside beautiful rivers. Day 11: Bomi to Nyingchi (Approx. 230 km) Route: Continue on G318 National Road from Bomi to Nyingchi. Highlights: Enjoy the lush scenery of Nyingchi, known for its forests and the Niyang River. Day 12-13: Nyingchi to Lhasa (Approx. 400 km) Route: Take the G318 National Road west from Nyingchi to Lhasa. Highlights: Pass through Mila Mountain and follow the Yarlung Tsangpo River Gorge. In Lhasa, explore the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.   Route 2: Southern Route Day 1-2: Dali to Kunming (Approx. 340 km) Route: Take the G56 Hangrui Expressway east from Dali to Kunming. Highlights: Kunming, known as the "Spring City," offers attractions like the Stone Forest (Shilin), Dianchi Lake, and Green Lake Park. Day 3: Kunming to Panzhihua (Approx. 310 km) Route: Continue on the G56 Hangrui Expressway north to Panzhihua. Highlights: Panzhihua, a city built around the steel industry, provides access to scenic spots like the Jinsha River and nearby hot springs. Day 4: Panzhihua to Xichang (Approx. 260 km) Route: Take the G5 Beijing-Kunming Expressway north to Xichang. Highlights: Xichang is known for Qionghai Lake and the Luoji Mountain scenic area. It's also a gateway to the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture. Day 5: Xichang to Kangding (Approx. 380 km) Route: Continue on the G5 Beijing-Kunming Expressway, then take the G318 National Road west to Kangding. Highlights: Kangding is famous for its stunning mountain scenery, including Gongga Mountain (Minya Konka), and the beautiful Mugecuo Scenic Area. Day 6: Kangding to Litang (Approx. 280 km) Route: Take the G318 National Road west from Kangding to Litang. Highlights: Litang, one of the highest towns in the world at 4,014 meters, is known for its Tibetan culture and the Litang Monastery. Day 7: Litang to Batang (Approx. 160 km) Route: Continue on the G318 National Road west to Batang. Highlights: Batang is a charming Tibetan town with picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Day 8: Batang to Markam (Approx. 160 km) Route: Cross into Tibet and stay on the G318 National Road to Markam. Highlights: Scenic mountain vistas and the Mekong River valley. Day 9: Markam to Zogang (Approx. 150 km) Route: Continue on the G318 National Road from Markam to Zogang. Highlights: Stunning high-altitude terrain and valleys. Day 10: Zogang to Baxoi (Approx. 120 km) Route: Stay on the G318 National Road heading west to Baxoi. Highlights: Enjoy the rugged and scenic terrain along the way. Day 11: Baxoi to Ranwu (Approx. 160 km) Route: Continue on the G318 National Road from Baxoi to Ranwu. Highlights: Pass by the beautiful Ranwu Lake, known for its clear waters and stunning reflections. Day 12: Ranwu to Bomi (Approx. 130 km) Route: Continue on G318 National Road from Ranwu to Bomi. Highlights: Drive through lush forests and alongside beautiful rivers. Day 13: Bomi to Nyingchi (Approx. 230 km) Route: Continue on G318 National Road from Bomi to Nyingchi. Highlights: Enjoy the lush scenery of Nyingchi, known for its forests and the Niyang River. Day 14: Nyingchi to Lhasa (Approx. 400 km) Route: Take the G318 National Road west from Nyingchi to Lhasa. Highlights: Pass through Mila Mountain and follow the Yarlung Tsangpo River Gorge. In Lhasa, explore the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.   Tips for the Journey Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits to travel in Tibet. Foreign tourists need a Tibet Travel Permit. Vehicle: A sturdy 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough terrain and high altitudes. Altitude Sickness: Be prepared for high altitudes. Acclimate gradually and consider medication for altitude sickness. Weather: Check the weather conditions, especially in winter, as some roads may be impassable. Supplies: Carry sufficient food, water, and emergency supplies, as some areas are remote with few facilities. These road trips offers a blend of cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and a sense of adventure, making it one of the most scenic routes in China.