GuangZhou 广州 in time lapse …

From the Himalayas to the Gobi Desert ...

Discover life in NanJing, JiangSu province - parks, temples, transportation and more ... Plus a beautiful time-lapse of NanJing ...

With Walk China ... Grasslands of Gansu Province travel guide Introduction The grasslands of Gansu Province are a breathtaking natural wonder, offering vast expanses of rolling hills, lush meadows, and vibrant wildflowers. These grasslands are home to diverse wildlife and traditional nomadic cultures, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience. This guide will help you explore the beauty of Gansu's grasslands, including must-see attractions, local culture, and practical travel tips. Must-See Grasslands Maqu Grassland (玛曲草原) Maqu Grassland, located in the southern part of Gansu Province, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved grasslands in China. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, including rare species of plants and animals. Visitors can experience traditional Tibetan nomadic culture, including horseback riding and staying in yurts. Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (甘南藏族自治州) Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is a region in Gansu known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant Tibetan culture. The grasslands here are dotted with monasteries, prayer flags, and nomadic camps. Highlights include the Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Sangke Grassland, a perfect spot for camping and picnicking. Ruoergai Grassland (若尔盖草原) Ruoergai Grassland, also known as Zoige Grassland, is located at the border of Gansu and Sichuan provinces. It is one of the largest and most picturesque grasslands in China, featuring vast wetlands, rivers, and lakes. The area is home to numerous bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Langmusi (郎木寺) Langmusi is a small town located on the border of Gansu and Sichuan provinces, known for its beautiful grasslands and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. The town is surrounded by lush meadows and mountains, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and horse riding. The local monasteries, such as the Kirti Monastery and Sertri Monastery, are also worth visiting. Local Culture The grasslands of Gansu are home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, including Tibetans, Mongolians, and Hui Muslims. These communities have preserved their traditional ways of life, including nomadic herding, Tibetan Buddhism, and unique culinary traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through homestays, attending festivals, and participating in traditional activities. Tibetan Festivals Tibetan festivals are an integral part of the cultural landscape in Gansu's grasslands. Key festivals include Losar (Tibetan New Year), Shoton (Yogurt Festival), and the Horse Racing Festival. These events feature traditional music, dance, religious rituals, and sports competitions, providing a vibrant and immersive cultural experience. Traditional Nomadic Life Experiencing the traditional nomadic lifestyle is a highlight of any visit to the grasslands. Visitors can stay in yurts, ride horses, and learn about the herding practices that have sustained these communities for centuries. This offers a unique insight into the symbiotic relationship between the nomads and their natural environment. Practical Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the grasslands of Gansu is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is mild, and the grasslands are in full bloom. Getting Around: Due to the vast and remote nature of the grasslands, hiring a local guide or joining a tour is recommended. Public transportation options are limited, and having a guide will enhance your experience. Accommodation: Accommodation options range from basic guesthouses to traditional yurts. Staying in a yurt provides a unique cultural experience, but it's essential to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Health and Safety: The high altitude of some grassland areas can cause altitude sickness. It's important to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack appropriate clothing. Respect Local Customs: When visiting Tibetan and other ethnic communities, respect local customs and traditions. Seek permission before taking photographs, especially in religious sites and of local people. Conclusion The grasslands of Gansu Province offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience, combining stunning natural landscapes with rich cultural heritage. Whether you're exploring the vast meadows, learning about nomadic traditions, or immersing yourself in Tibetan culture, the grasslands of Gansu provide a deep and enriching connection to the natural and cultural wonders of China. Use this guide to plan your journey and make the most of your visit to this extraordinary region.

Bei Bei 贝贝 sings Fireworks 花火. Love this song (aka Matchsticks) ... Much more music : click here !

With Pascal Coppens ...

The YuLong River, YùLóng Hé, starts in YangShuo County near Litang and flows for over 35 kilometers (22 miles) to the Li River near the town of Ping Le; GuangXi province. The YuLong River is relatively shallow at around 5 meters (16 feet) maximum depth and is an average of 25 meters (82 feet) across. Unlike the deeper Li River, it has no motorized boat traffic and bamboo rafts, paddle boats and swimming are popular. The bamboo raft journey begins at the YuLong Bridge, which is 400 years old. Hiking and biking are also popular as there are many quaint villages along the river, some offering bed and breakfast accommodation. The YuLong River Valley is very fertile, and its low-lying terrain is excellent for rice fields. In recent years, farmers have also planted more cash crops such as pomelos, tangerines and mandarin oranges.

In China, the people are family. In the West, the people are merely livestock. As simple as that. As profound as that. Competence and success is the real 'threat'. The old colonial powers are less than 10% of the world's population, yet still clamber to be its master, putting everyone else down, by economic and political sabotage, subversion, proxy wars, etc. 100 years of great shame. If democracy means anything real, the majority of the world must be allowed to have its say, be allowed to grow, be allowed to be. The US imperialist hegemony empire doesn't have 'allies', only slaves, and sees the rest of the world as its plantation. The sheep (Ukraine, Australia, UK, Europe, Taiwan, Japan, S. Korea..) are encouraged to worry about wolves all their lives, but in the end are eaten up by the shepherd. Don't these countries realise that they are possessed, militarily and psychologically. From 2013 (and still true today) ... Bonus film - with Jeffrey Sachs ... With Garland Nixon ...

With Beijing Old Liu ... Visitor guide to the Summer Palace in BeiJing Overview The Summer Palace, located in the Haidian District of BeiJing, is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It served as a summer retreat for the Qing Dynasty emperors. Renowned for its beautiful landscape and rich cultural heritage, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of BeiJing's top tourist attractions. Getting There Location: The Summer Palace is located in the northwest of BeiJing, about 15 kilometers from the city center. By Canal Boat: For a unique and scenic route, take a canal boat from the Purple Bamboo Park (ZiZhuYuan) or Beijing Zoo wharfs. The boat ride takes about an hour and provides a relaxing way to reach the Summer Palace, offering views of the city's waterways. By Subway: Take Subway Line 4 and get off at Beigongmen Station (Exit D), which is close to the North Palace Gate. By Bus: Several bus routes, including 303, 330, 331, 332, 346, 394, 563, 584, 601, and 608, stop near the Summer Palace. By Taxi: A taxi ride from central BeiJing takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Entrance and Tickets Main Gates: The three main entrances are the East Palace Gate, the North Palace Gate, and the New Palace Gate (South Gate). Entrance Fee: The entrance fee varies by season. Generally, it ranges from 30 to 60 RMB. Combined tickets, including entry to special sites like the Tower of Buddhist Incense and Suzhou Street, are also available. Opening Hours: The Summer Palace is open daily from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM (April to October) and 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (November to March). Main Attractions Kunming Lake Kunming Lake covers approximately three-quarters of the Summer Palace area. Visitors can take a boat ride to enjoy the scenic beauty and visit the South Lake Island. Longevity Hill Rising behind Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill is dotted with splendid halls, pavilions, and temples. Key sites include the Tower of Buddhist Incense, the Sea of Wisdom Temple, and the Hall of Dispelling Clouds. Seventeen-Arch Bridge This iconic bridge connects the eastern shore of Kunming Lake to Nanhu Island. It is known for its unique design and the 544 stone lions carved on its railings. Long Corridor The Long Corridor is a covered walkway that stretches for 728 meters along the northern shore of Kunming Lake. It is adorned with thousands of beautiful paintings depicting Chinese legends and landscapes. Marble Boat The Marble Boat, also known as the Boat of Purity and Ease, is a lakeside pavilion made of marble. It symbolizes stability and is a unique and photogenic structure. Suzhou Street Suzhou Street is a charming area with shops and buildings designed to mimic the style of the famous water town of Suzhou. It offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese commerce and architecture. Activities and Experiences Boat Rides: Rent a paddle boat or take a dragon boat cruise on Kunming Lake for a relaxing and scenic experience. Photography: The Summer Palace offers countless picturesque spots, especially at dawn and dusk when the light is soft and golden. Walking and Hiking: Explore the numerous trails and paths around Longevity Hill and the lakeshore for a leisurely or invigorating hike. Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic in one of the many tranquil garden areas, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and historical architecture. Dining and Refreshments Palace Restaurants: There are several restaurants within the Summer Palace grounds offering traditional Chinese cuisine and snacks. Tea Houses: Enjoy a traditional tea experience at one of the tea houses overlooking Kunming Lake. Outside Dining: Numerous restaurants and cafes are located near the main entrances, offering a variety of dining options. Shopping Souvenir Shops: Various shops within the Summer Palace sell traditional Chinese arts and crafts, souvenirs, and books. Market Streets: Nearby shopping streets outside the palace offer local snacks, handicrafts, and other unique items. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit the Summer Palace are spring (April to June) 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. Plan Your Visit: The Summer Palace is vast, so plan your visit to focus on the main attractions you want to see. A map of the palace grounds can be very helpful. Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially during the hot summer months, as the extensive grounds require a lot of walking. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of cultural and historical sites. Avoid touching artifacts and follow posted signs and instructions. Conclusion The Summer Palace in BeiJing is a stunning testament to Chinese landscape gardening and imperial architecture. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, it offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Plan your trip carefully to make the most of your visit and immerse yourself in the splendor of this magnificent heritage site.

Compare that with the UK's (maybe) 250 km single line (HS2). With Jason / Living In China ... With For All Life's Adventures ...