Geopolitics update – January 2025 (Red Note, and much more …)

Xiong'An is a new city on the outskirts of BeiJing. With Lee Barrett, with JaYoe Nation ...

Day Trips from Shenzhen, China Guangzhou 广州 (Guǎngzhōu): Explore the vibrant capital of Guangdong Province, known for its rich history, delicious Cantonese cuisine, and modern skyscrapers. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Canton Tower, stroll along the historic Shamian Island, and sample local delicacies at the bustling Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street. Hong Kong 香港 (Xiānggǎng): Experience the dynamic cityscape of Hong Kong, just a short train ride away from Shenzhen. Explore attractions like Victoria Harbour, ride the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak for stunning city views, and indulge in shopping and dining in areas like Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui. Macau 澳门 (Àomén): Discover the unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture in Macau, known for its historic colonial architecture, vibrant casinos, and delicious egg tarts. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Ruins of St. Paul's, explore the historic streets of Senado Square, and try your luck at the famous casinos along the Cotai Strip. Dameisha Beach and Xiaomeisha Beach 大梅沙海滨公园 (Dàméishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán) and 小梅沙海滨公园 (Xiǎoméishā Hǎibīn Gōngyuán): Relax and unwind at Dameisha and Xiaomeisha Beaches, popular seaside destinations located just outside of Shenzhen. Enjoy sunbathing on the golden sands, swimming in the clear waters of the South China Sea, and participating in water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. Window of the World 世界之窗 (Shìjiè zhī Chuāng): Immerse yourself in a world of wonders at Window of the World, an amusement park in Shenzhen that features miniature replicas of famous landmarks from around the globe. Explore iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, and the Great Wall of China, all within a single day. Shenzhen Safari Park 深圳野生动物园 (Shēnzhèn Yěshēng Dòngwùyuán): Get up close and personal with wildlife from around the world at Shenzhen Safari Park. Explore the park's vast grounds by tram or on foot, and encounter animals such as giant pandas, giraffes, and lions in naturalistic habitats. Fairy Lake Botanical Garden 仙湖植物园 (Xiānhú Zhíwùyuán): Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature at Fairy Lake Botanical Garden. Explore lush gardens, serene lakes, and scenic hiking trails, and discover a diverse collection of plant species from China and around the world. Shekou Sea World 蛇口海上世界 (Shékǒu Hǎishàng Shìjiè): Spend a day exploring the attractions of Shekou Sea World, a waterfront entertainment complex in Shenzhen. Visit the Sea World Culture and Arts Center, enjoy shopping and dining at the Sea World Plaza, and discover marine life at the Sea World Aquarium. Shenzhen Museum 深圳博物馆 (Shēnzhèn Bówùguǎn): Dive into the history and culture of Shenzhen at the Shenzhen Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits on the city's evolution from a fishing village to a modern metropolis, learn about the region's archaeological treasures, and discover the cultural heritage of the local Hakka ethnic minority. Da Fen Oil Painting Village 大芬油画村 (Dà Fēn Yóuhuà Cūn): Discover the vibrant arts scene of Shenzhen at Da Fen Oil Painting Village, a community known for its talented artists and galleries. Watch artists at work in their studios, browse a wide range of original paintings and artworks, and purchase unique souvenirs to take home. Day Trip to Dongguan 东莞 (Dōngguǎn): Explore the nearby city of Dongguan, known for its manufacturing industry, cultural heritage, and natural attractions. Visit landmarks such as the Keyuan Garden, learn about traditional Cantonese opera at the Qifeng Park Opera Stage, and enjoy shopping at the bustling Dongguan Walking Street. Day Trip to Huizhou 惠州 (Huìzhōu): Discover the historic city of Huizhou, located along the Pearl River Delta and known for its ancient landmarks, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage. Visit attractions such as the Luofu Mountain, explore ancient villages like Xingfu Village, and relax on the sandy shores of Xunliao Bay. Day Trip to Dongguan 东莞 (Dōngguǎn): Explore the nearby city of Dongguan, known for its manufacturing industry, cultural heritage, and natural attractions. Visit landmarks such as the Keyuan Garden, learn about traditional Cantonese opera at the Qifeng Park Opera Stage, and enjoy shopping at the bustling Dongguan Walking Street. Day Trip to Foshan 佛山 (Fóshān): Visit the historic city of Foshan, known for its centuries-old martial arts traditions, ancient temples, and traditional Cantonese culture. Explore attractions such as the Foshan Ancestral Temple, watch a demonstration of traditional lion dancing at the Foshan Lion Dance Museum, and visit the Nanfeng Ancient Kiln for a glimpse into the region's ceramic heritage. Day Trip to Zhuhai 珠海 (Zhūhǎi): Discover the coastal city of Zhuhai, located on the Pearl River Delta and known for its beautiful beaches, lush parks, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit attractions such as the New Yuanming Palace, stroll along Lover's Road for panoramic views of the coastline, and enjoy fresh seafood at the bustling Gongbei Seafood Street.

Old / Ancient Towns in China Lijiang Old Town 丽江古城 (Lìjiāng Gǔchéng): Step back in time in the ancient town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals. Lijiang Old Town is home to traditional Naxi culture and features historic landmarks such as the Mu Palace, the Black Dragon Pool, and the Wangu Tower. Visitors can wander through the maze-like streets, admire the intricate wooden buildings, and experience the vibrant local culture. Fenghuang Ancient Town 凤凰古城 (Fènghuáng Gǔchéng): Discover the charm of Fenghuang Ancient Town, nestled along the banks of the Tuo River in Hunan Province. Fenghuang is known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, ancient bridges, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, explore historic temples and ancestral halls, and admire the traditional Miao ethnic minority culture. Pingyao Ancient Town 平遥古城 (Píngyáo Gǔchéng): Explore the ancient walled city of Pingyao, one of China's best-preserved ancient towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pingyao Ancient Town dates back over 2,700 years and is known for its well-preserved city walls, historic courtyards, and ancient temples. Visitors can walk along the fortified walls, explore the narrow alleyways, and learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Zhujiajiao Ancient Town 朱家角古镇 (Zhūjiājiǎo Gǔzhèn): Experience the charm of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, located on the outskirts of Shanghai. Zhujiajiao is known for its scenic canals, stone bridges, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visitors can take a boat ride along the canals, explore historic landmarks such as the Fangsheng Bridge and the Kezhi Garden, and sample local delicacies at traditional teahouses and restaurants. Xitang Ancient Town 西塘古镇 (Xītáng Gǔzhèn): Discover the beauty of Xitang Ancient Town, a water town known for its tranquil canals, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture. Xitang has been featured in numerous films and is renowned for its picturesque scenery and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, explore historic residences and temples, and take a boat ride along the scenic waterways. Wuzhen Ancient Town 乌镇古镇 (Wūzhèn Gǔzhèn): Step back in time in the ancient water town of Wuzhen, known for its well-preserved Qing dynasty architecture, scenic canals, and traditional way of life. Wuzhen is divided into two main districts: the East Scenic Area, which features historic residences and workshops, and the West Scenic Area, which offers a glimpse into rural life along the waterways. Visitors can explore ancient temples, watch traditional performances, and sample local specialties such as Wuzhen rice wine and shadow puppetry. Shaxi Ancient Town 沙溪古镇 (Shāxī Gǔzhèn): Explore the historic town of Shaxi, located along the ancient Tea Horse Road in Yunnan Province. Shaxi is known for its well-preserved Bai ethnic minority architecture, traditional cobblestone streets, and ancient market square. Visitors can wander through the town's labyrinth of alleyways, visit the historic Xingjiao Temple, and hike to the nearby Shibao Mountain to see its intricate Buddhist carvings. Zhaoxing Dong Village 肇兴侗寨 (Zhàoxīng Dòngzhài): Experience the unique culture of the Dong ethnic minority in Zhaoxing Dong Village, located in Guizhou Province. Zhaoxing is known for its traditional wooden houses, ancient wind and rain bridges, and terraced rice paddies. Visitors can explore the village's cobblestone streets, visit the Drum Tower and the Wind and Rain Bridge, and attend traditional Dong festivals and performances. Jinli Ancient Street 锦里古街 (Jǐnlǐ Gǔjiē): Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jinli Ancient Street, a historic street in Chengdu known for its traditional architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant street food scene. Jinli Street dates back over 2,000 years and has been restored to its former glory, with ancient-style buildings housing teahouses, shops, and snack stalls. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as Sichuan hotpot, stinky tofu, and spicy skewers, shop for souvenirs and handicrafts, and enjoy traditional performances such as Sichuan opera and shadow puppetry. Pingle Ancient Town 平乐古镇 (Pínglè Gǔzhèn): Discover the charm of Pingle Ancient Town, located in Sichuan Province and known for its well-preserved Tang and Song dynasty architecture, ancient streets, and historic landmarks. Pingle is nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Qingcheng Mountains and is surrounded by lush forests, bamboo groves, and tea plantations. Visitors can explore the town's ancient streets, visit historic temples and ancestral halls, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the Qingcheng Mountains.

Jiddu Krishnamurti ... LiZiQi ... Alan Watts ... Gabor Mate ...

Mountain Hiking Trips in China Huangshan 黄山 (Huángshān): Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Yellow Mountain, known for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and mystical beauty. Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has inspired countless poets and artists with its ethereal landscapes. Visitors can hike along scenic trails lined with ancient pine trees, explore hidden caves and waterfalls, and witness breathtaking views of the sea of clouds that often shroud the peaks. Emei Mountain 峨眉山 (Éméishān): Explore one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China, known for its stunning scenery, ancient temples, and diverse wildlife. Emei Mountain is home to the majestic Golden Summit, where visitors can watch the sunrise over a sea of clouds and admire the towering statue of Samantabhadra. Along the way, hikers can encounter playful monkeys, explore serene forests, and visit historic Buddhist monasteries. Jiuhua Mountain 九华山 (Jiǔhuáshān): Discover the beauty and tranquility of Jiuhua Mountain, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China. Jiuhua Mountain is renowned for its sacred temples, including the Tiantai Temple and the Huacheng Temple, which house ancient Buddhist relics and offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike through lush forests, meditate in serene meditation halls, and immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of this sacred mountain. Wudang Mountain 武当山 (Wǔdāngshān): Explore the birthplace of Wudang Kung Fu and the ancient Taoist culture at Wudang Mountain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its magnificent ancient buildings, including the Golden Hall, the Purple Cloud Palace, and the Nanyan Temple. Visitors can practice Tai Chi in the peaceful surroundings, hike through scenic valleys and forests, and explore the rich cultural heritage of this historic mountain. Mount Tai 泰山 (Tàishān): Ascend the sacred Mount Tai, known as the "Eastern Mountain of the Five Sacred Mountains." Mount Tai has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for thousands of years and is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural significance. Visitors can climb the 7,000 steps to the summit, visit ancient temples and shrines, and admire panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the Jade Emperor Peak. Mt. Hua 华山 (Huàshān): Challenge yourself with a trek up the steep and rugged trails of Mount Hua, one of China's Five Great Mountains. Known for its precipitous cliffs, narrow plank paths, and breathtaking vistas, Mount Hua offers a thrilling adventure for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike to the famous Chess Pavilion, brave the spine-tingling plank walk along the cliff face, and enjoy panoramic views from the mountain's five peaks. Mount Gongga 贡嘎山 (Gònggǎshān): Explore the "King of Sichuan Mountains," known for its stunning glaciers, alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems. Mount Gongga is one of the highest peaks in the Hengduan Mountains and offers spectacular scenery and challenging trekking opportunities. Visitors can trek through pristine wilderness, climb to high mountain passes, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Minya Konka. Haba Snow Mountain 哈巴雪山 (Hābā Xuěshān): Discover the rugged beauty of Haba Snow Mountain, located on the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. Haba Snow Mountain is known for its dramatic landscapes, including towering peaks, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can trek through alpine meadows adorned with colorful wildflowers, cross suspension bridges over rushing rivers, and summit the snow-capped peak for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 玉龙雪山 (Yùlóng Xuěshān): Explore the stunning landscapes of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, known for its towering peaks, deep gorges, and alpine meadows. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas and is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the summit, hike along scenic trails, and admire the views of the famous "13 peaks." Mt. Siguniang 四姑娘山 (Sìgūniángshān): Journey to the "Four Sisters Mountains," known for their towering peaks, alpine lakes, and pristine forests. Mount Siguniang is located in the heart of the Qionglai Mountains and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. Visitors can trek through scenic valleys, visit Tibetan villages, and admire the stunning beauty of the snow-capped mountains, including the four distinct peaks that give the mountain its name.

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.

With Barrett ... Step into Fuzhou, the heart of Fujian Province, where 2,200 years of history blend seamlessly with a modern skyline. From the ancient Three Lanes and Seven Alleys to the majestic Sitan Temple, this city has preserved its Maritime Silk Road legacy while shaping China’s future. Stroll through its winding alleys, witness breathtaking architecture, and discover the legendary Love Heart Tree—a symbol of romance and tradition. Fuzhou Travel Guide Introduction Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province, is a historic and culturally rich city with a blend of traditional architecture, modern development, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Banyans," it is famous for its ancient trees, hot springs, and historical sites. Top Attractions Three Lanes and Seven Alleys (Sanfang Qixiang) A well-preserved historical district with Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, narrow lanes, and courtyards filled with tea houses, local snacks, and boutique shops. Drum Mountain (Gushan) A scenic area featuring ancient temples, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Min River. The famous Yongquan Temple is located here. West Lake Park One of the most beautiful parks in Fuzhou, offering boat rides, classical pavilions, and gardens reminiscent of West Lake in Hangzhou. Pingtan Island A stunning coastal area with pristine beaches, rock formations, and a rich fishing culture. Perfect for those seeking seaside relaxation. Fuzhou National Forest Park A large forest park offering lush greenery, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities. A great escape from the city's hustle. Hot Springs Fuzhou is known for its natural hot springs, with many hotels and resorts offering spa experiences. The most famous is Rongqiao Hot Springs. Local Cuisine Fuzhou cuisine is known for its fresh seafood and mild, slightly sweet flavors. Must-try dishes include: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall – A luxurious soup with seafood, meat, and medicinal herbs. Fish Ball Soup – Handmade fish balls stuffed with meat in a light broth. Litchi Pork – Sweet and sour pork dish resembling the shape of lychee fruit. Fuzhou Noodles – Thin noodles in a flavorful broth, often served with seafood. Best Time to Visit Fuzhou has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is comfortable and ideal for sightseeing. Transportation By Air: Fuzhou Changle International Airport connects the city to major domestic and international destinations. By Train: High-speed trains link Fuzhou to cities like Xiamen, Shanghai, and Beijing. Public Transport: Buses and metro lines make it easy to explore the city. Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Didi and taxis are widely available for convenient travel. Accommodation Fuzhou offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Recommended areas to stay include the city center near Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, as well as the hot spring district. Conclusion Fuzhou is a fascinating destination with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're exploring ancient streets, hiking mountains, or enjoying hot springs, the city offers a diverse and rewarding travel experience.

With Rafa Goes Around! ...