Interesting places around ChengDu 成都

The beautiful outdoor show in HangZhou, ZheJiang province ...

With Brian Berletic / The New Atlas ... On the US drone strike in Syria that killed many civilians - with Democracy Now ... On Cambodia ... On China and the U.S. ... On Iran, with Democracy Now ... A documentary on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, November 22, 1963 ... On the 'diplomatic boycott' of the Beijing Winter Olympics by the 5-eyes imperialists ... On Julian Assange and the Uk to US extradition ... On Syria, with The Grayzone ... On Canada's 'boycott' of the BeiJing Winter Olympics - with numuves ... Meanwhile ... ShenZhou-13 - 1st space lecture from the TianGong Space Station 中国空间站天宫课堂第一课 ... High speed rail link to the BeiJing Winter Olympics ... ... more to come, as ever; so check back on this post later, and see all the updates in earlier parts ...

Mount Hua, or HuaShan, is one of China's Five Great Mountains, renowned for its steep trails, breathtaking views, and significant Taoist history. Located in Shaanxi Province, near the city of Huayin, Huashan attracts adventurers and pilgrims alike. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Huashan. Top Attractions The Five Peaks of Huashan Mount Hua consists of five main peaks, each offering unique scenery and experiences: East Peak (Zhaoyang Peak): Known as the "Sunrise Peak," it is the best spot to watch the sunrise. West Peak (Lianhua Peak): Also called the "Lotus Peak," it is famous for its striking rock formations that resemble a lotus flower. South Peak (Luoyan Peak): The highest of the five peaks at 2,154 meters, offering panoramic views. North Peak (Yuntai Peak): Known as the "Cloud Terrace Peak," it serves as the starting point for many hikes. Central Peak (Yunv Peak): Also known as the "Jade Maiden Peak," it is named after a Taoist legend. Huashan Plank Walk The Huashan Plank Walk is one of the most thrilling attractions on the mountain. The narrow wooden walkway is attached to the sheer cliff face of the South Peak, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience and stunning views. Chess Pavilion Perched on a precarious rock, the Chess Pavilion is a small structure with legendary associations. According to legend, it is where a deity played chess with a mortal. Taoist Temples Mount Hua is home to several ancient Taoist temples, including the Jade Spring Temple at the base of the mountain and the Yuquan Temple. These temples are important pilgrimage sites and offer a glimpse into the mountain's spiritual significance. Geology of Huashan Mount Hua is part of the Qinling Mountain range and is primarily composed of granite. The mountain's distinctive steep slopes and sharp peaks are the result of tectonic uplift and erosion over millions of years. The granite rock faces provide both a dramatic landscape and a challenging environment for climbers. Touring Huashan Planning Your Visit Visiting Huashan requires careful planning due to its challenging terrain and the variety of routes available. A typical visit can take one to two days, depending on the routes and peaks you choose to explore. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: North Peak and the Plank Walk Morning: Take the cable car from the East Gate to the North Peak. Spend the morning exploring the North Peak and its surrounding trails. Afternoon: Head towards the South Peak for the Huashan Plank Walk. Ensure you have the proper safety gear and follow all safety instructions. Evening: Consider spending the night on the mountain at one of the guesthouses or temples to experience the sunrise from one of the peaks. Day 2: The Five Peaks Early Morning: Watch the sunrise from the East Peak. Mid-Morning: Hike to the Central Peak, then continue to the West Peak to see the Lotus Flower Rock. Afternoon: Ascend to the South Peak, the highest peak, for panoramic views. Descend back to the North Peak and take the cable car down. Activities and Experiences Hiking Huashan offers challenging hikes with rewarding views. Trails are steep and can be narrow, requiring a good level of fitness and caution. Popular routes include the ascent from the East Gate to the North Peak and the circular route covering the five peaks. Photography The dramatic landscapes of Huashan provide excellent opportunities for photography. Key spots include the sunrise from the East Peak, the Plank Walk on the South Peak, and the panoramic views from the highest point. Local Cuisine After a day of hiking, try local Shaanxi cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Specialties include biangbiang noodles, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and various dumplings. There are several restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain and near the East Gate. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Huashan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the views are clear. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy, making some trails hazardous. Getting There Huashan is accessible by train, bus, and car. The nearest major city is Xi'an, from where you can take a high-speed train to Huashan North Railway Station. From there, shuttle buses or taxis can take you to the mountain's entrances. Accommodation Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels in Huayin City. For a unique experience, consider staying overnight on the mountain in a guesthouse or temple. This allows you to catch the sunrise from one of the peaks. Tickets and Passes Purchase entrance tickets at the mountain's gates. There are separate tickets for the cable cars and the Plank Walk. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore all five peaks. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the mountain's history, culture, and geology. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.

In the western suburbs of Beijing at the foot of the Western Hills.

1. Harmony and Balance (和谐 Héxié) Philosophical Roots: Derived from Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, the concept of harmony emphasizes balance in social relationships, nature, and the universe. It promotes peaceful coexistence and cooperation. Social Application: In social and business contexts, maintaining harmony is crucial. Conflicts are often resolved through negotiation and compromise to preserve social stability. 2. Family and Filial Piety (孝 Xiào) Central Role of Family: The family is the cornerstone of Chinese society. Filial piety, respect for one’s parents and ancestors, is a key virtue. Social Structure: Family obligations often take precedence over individual desires, reflecting the collective nature of Chinese culture. 3. Collectivism Community Focus: Chinese culture emphasizes the importance of the group over the individual. This is evident in societal, family, and workplace dynamics. Shared Responsibility: Successes and failures are often viewed as collective rather than individual, fostering a strong sense of community and mutual support. 4. Win-Win Philosophy (共赢 Gòngyíng) Mutual Benefit: In business and diplomacy, the concept of win-win solutions is highly valued. It emphasizes creating outcomes that benefit all parties involved. Long-Term Relationships: Building long-term relationships and mutual trust is prioritized over short-term gains. 5. Respect for Hierarchy and Authority Confucian Influence: Respect for hierarchy is deeply ingrained, influenced by Confucian principles. This is evident in social, familial, and organizational structures. Role of Elders and Leaders: Elders and leaders are accorded high respect and their opinions are given significant weight in decision-making processes. 6. Education and Continuous Learning Value of Education: Education is highly valued and seen as a means to achieve personal and societal improvement. Historical reverence for scholars and intellectuals persists. Meritocracy: Historically, the imperial examination system reinforced the importance of education and merit in attaining social status and governmental positions. 7. Adaptability and Pragmatism Historical Adaptation: China has a long history of adapting to changing circumstances, whether through economic reforms or cultural assimilation. Pragmatic Approach: Practical solutions are often favored over rigid adherence to ideology, allowing for flexibility in governance and daily life. 8. Respect for Tradition and Cultural Heritage Preservation of Traditions: Despite modernization, traditional festivals, customs, and rituals remain integral to Chinese life. Cultural Continuity: There's a strong emphasis on preserving and passing down cultural heritage through generations. 9. Guanxi (关系) - Social Connections and Networks Importance of Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships is crucial in both personal and professional contexts. Guanxi can provide social support, opportunities, and resources. Reciprocity: Relationships are maintained through reciprocal exchanges of favors and support. 10. Yin and Yang (阴阳 Yīnyáng) Philosophical Concept: Represents the duality and interconnectedness of opposites in the natural world. Balance between yin (passive, dark, feminine) and yang (active, light, masculine) is sought. Application in Life: This concept influences various aspects of life, including health, environment, and personal relationships. Conclusion These enduring characteristics shape the Chinese worldview and influence behavior, relationships, and societal norms. Understanding these cultural elements provides valuable insights into the dynamics of Chinese society and its approach to both personal and professional interactions. These values continue to guide life in China into modernity and its international relations.