For all my friends at FineArtAmerica (FAA)

Anyone who has visited China immediately knows that they have been lied to. With FridayEveryday ... Bonus film - on the best 'democracy' that money can buy (the people don't matter) - with Ben Norton ... On human rights, with Daniel Dumbrill ... With Fernando Munoz Bernal ... With Harvey in China ... With Aiden Qiu ...

With Travel In China ... Visitor Guide to LiKeng Ancient Town, JiangXi Province Overview LiKeng Ancient Town, located in Wuyuan County of JiangXi Province, is a picturesque village known for its well-preserved architecture, traditional culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Often referred to as the "most beautiful village in China," LiKeng offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and rural life. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is Jingdezhen Luojia Airport (JDZ), located about 90 kilometers from LiKeng. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Wuyuan County and then a local bus or taxi to LiKeng. By Train: Wuyuan Railway Station is the closest train station, with connections to major cities like ShangHai, HangZhou, and NanChang. From the station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to LiKeng. By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities to Wuyuan County. From Wuyuan County, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach LiKeng. Getting Around Walking: The best way to explore LiKeng is on foot. The village is small and pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to leisurely stroll through its charming streets. Biking: Renting a bicycle is a popular option for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from nearby towns and attractions. Main Attractions Ancient Architecture LiKeng is renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. The traditional wooden houses, stone bridges, and narrow lanes reflect the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Li Family Ancestral Hall The Li Family Ancestral Hall is a significant historical site in LiKeng. It showcases intricate wood carvings, beautiful murals, and traditional Chinese architectural design. Stone Arch Bridges LiKeng is dotted with ancient stone arch bridges that add to its scenic charm. These bridges, with their elegant curves and historical significance, are perfect for photography and leisurely walks. Surrounding Countryside The countryside around LiKeng is known for its lush greenery, terraced fields, and beautiful tea plantations. Exploring the rural landscape offers a peaceful and picturesque experience. Local Cuisine LiKeng's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Here are some must-try dishes: Wuyuan Steamed Fish: Fresh fish from the local rivers, steamed with a light seasoning to retain its natural flavors. Rice Wine Chicken: Chicken cooked with local rice wine, creating a tender and flavorful dish. Wild Vegetables: Various wild vegetables picked from the surrounding countryside, often stir-fried or used in soups. Wuyuan Green Tea: Enjoy a cup of locally-produced green tea, known for its fresh taste and health benefits. Shopping Local Handicrafts: LiKeng is known for its traditional handicrafts, including bamboo weaving, pottery, and wood carvings. These items make for unique souvenirs. Tea Shops: Purchase high-quality green tea from local tea shops, which offer a variety of teas produced in the surrounding area. Market Streets: Explore the market streets for local snacks, handmade goods, and other unique items reflecting the town's cultural heritage. Accommodation Traditional Guesthouses: Stay in a traditional guesthouse to experience the local lifestyle. Many guesthouses are located in historical buildings with charming courtyards. Mid-Range Hotels: There are several mid-range hotels in Wuyuan County offering comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Budget Options: Budget travelers can find affordable lodging in hostels and budget hotels in and around LiKeng. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit LiKeng are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical 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: LiKeng is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion LiKeng Ancient Town in JiangXi Province offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring its ancient architecture, savoring local cuisine, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, LiKeng provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this charming and picturesque village.

Don't miss it. With No Cold War ... Bonus films - with Rise of Asia ... With Richard Wolff ...

Zhou Shen & Sa Dingding singing at the Mid Autumn Festival "Upwards to the Moon" 《左手指月》...

With Jason / Living in China ... Bonus film - Jason in GuiLin and YangShuo ... With Sabrina in China ... Plus ...

With 九月 江尋千 ...

With MiaoMiao ... Zhangjiang Science City, located in the Pudong district of Shanghai, is a major hub for scientific innovation and research in China. Often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of China," Zhangjiang Science City has been a focal point for the development of high-tech industries, particularly in the fields of biotechnology, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. Key Features and Developments: Research and Development Hub: Zhangjiang Science City hosts numerous research institutions, universities, and corporate R&D centers. It's home to the Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone, which plays a critical role in fostering technological innovation. The area is known for its strong focus on life sciences, with many pharmaceutical companies and biotech firms operating there, including multinational corporations like Roche and Novartis. Tech Startups and Incubators: The region has a thriving startup ecosystem, supported by various incubators and accelerators. This makes it an attractive destination for tech entrepreneurs and innovators. The Shanghai Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, within the science city, is one of China's most prominent technology parks, providing resources and infrastructure for startups. International Collaboration: Zhangjiang Science City emphasizes international collaboration, with numerous foreign enterprises establishing their R&D centers there. The area facilitates joint ventures and partnerships between Chinese and global companies. The establishment of free trade zones and favorable policies has further encouraged international investment and collaboration. Smart City Development: As part of the broader Shanghai initiative, Zhangjiang is being developed into a "smart city" with advanced infrastructure for communications, transport, and urban living. The integration of AI, big data, and IoT technologies into the city’s infrastructure is a key aspect of its development, making it a model for future urban areas. Education and Talent: The science city benefits from proximity to top-tier universities and research institutions, which supply a steady stream of talent in various scientific and engineering disciplines. Efforts are made to attract and retain international talent, offering competitive incentives and a conducive environment for innovation. Government Support: The Chinese government has prioritized Zhangjiang as a key area for the country’s strategic technology development. Policies are in place to support research, attract investment, and encourage innovation. Significant investments have been made in infrastructure, including transport links that connect Zhangjiang to other parts of Shanghai and beyond, enhancing its accessibility and appeal as a business location. Future Prospects: Zhangjiang Science City is poised to continue its growth as a global leader in science and technology. With ongoing investments and a focus on high-tech industries, it is expected to play a significant role in China's ambitions to become a world leader in innovation and technology by the mid-21st century. The combination of government support, international collaboration, and a strong innovation ecosystem makes Zhangjiang Science City a critical component of Shanghai's, and indeed China's, future development strategy.

Beautiful ...