Mount DanXia 丹霞山 scenic area, GuangDong province

JingShan Park lies immediately north of the Forbidden City (Palace Museum).

WuXi is an old city that lies between Changzhou to the west and Suzhou to the east, not far from ShangHai. It also lies on Lake Tai. WuXi is well known for being one of the birthplaces of China's modern industry and commerce. The giant Buddha at LingShan, WuXi ...

How the 'West' subjugates the 'Rest' of the world (the great majority : 86% + many in the west who do not agree with the neo-colonial agenda) with sanctions, debt and vetoes, coups and puppets. This is the insane reality - a handful of supremacists in the West impoverish their own people in order to subjugate the rest of the world. And almost all of humanity is the loser. All the wars and famines that have resulted, and continue to this day. As for Western 'democracy' (it's all about the money), one only gets to choose between two puppets pre-chosen by the elite. Trump vs Biden - need one say more. Behind the theatrics, it is us and them (poverty equals 'freedom'). With Ben Norton ...

Bonus film - a DIY woolen cloak for winter warmth ... Live more ...

Beijing: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit The Forbidden City (紫禁城 Zǐjìnchéng): Explore the ancient imperial palace complex and its vast courtyards. The Great Wall of China (长城 Chángchéng): Take a family hike along this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beijing Zoo (北京动物园 Běijīng Dòngwùyuán): Visit pandas and other animals at one of China's oldest and largest zoos. Beihai Park (北海公园 Běihǎi Gōngyuán): Enjoy boating on the lake and exploring the gardens and pavilions. 798 Art District (798艺术区 Qījiǔbā Yìshùqū): Discover contemporary art in this former factory complex turned art district. Beijing Aquarium (北京海洋馆 Běijīng Hǎiyánguǎn): Explore the underwater world with a variety of marine life exhibits. Beijing Children's Museum (北京儿童博物馆 Běijīng Értóng Bówùguǎn): Interactive museum featuring exhibits designed for children. Summer Palace (颐和园 Yíhé Yuán): Stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy boat rides on Kunming Lake. Happy Valley Beijing (欢乐谷 Huānlègǔ Běijīng): Amusement park with rides and entertainment for the whole family. Beijing Botanical Garden (北京植物园 Běijīng Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy outdoor activities. Temple of Heaven Park (天坛公园 Tiāntán Gōngyuán): Watch locals practice tai chi and fly kites in this historic park. Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest) (北京国家体育场 Běijīng Guójiā Tǐyùchǎng): Visit the iconic Olympic venue and explore its architecture. Beijing Planetarium (北京天文馆 Běijīng Tiānwénguǎn): Discover the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits. Beijing Ancient Observatory (北京古观象台 Běijīng Gǔ Guānxiàngtái): Learn about ancient Chinese astronomy and observe celestial objects. Capital Museum (首都博物馆 Shǒudū Bówùguǎn): Explore Chinese art and history with family-friendly exhibits. Beijing World Park (北京世界公园 Běijīng Shìjiè Gōngyuán): Travel around the world in a day with replicas of famous landmarks. Chinese Ethnic Culture Park (中国民族文化公园 Zhōngguó Mínzú Wénhuà Gōngyuán): Learn about China's diverse ethnic groups through cultural displays. Beijing Toy Museum (北京玩具博物馆 Běijīng Wánjù Bówùguǎn): Explore a vast collection of toys from different eras and cultures. Beijing Olympic Park (北京奥林匹克公园 Běijīng Àolínpǐkè Gōngyuán): Enjoy green spaces, walking paths, and iconic Olympic venues. Beijing Botanical Garden (北京植物园 Běijīng Zhíwùyuán): Explore diverse plant collections and enjoy outdoor activities. Beijing: 30 More Places to Visit Tiananmen Square (天安门广场 Tiān'ānmén Guǎngchǎng): Iconic city square with historical significance and monumental architecture. Hutongs (胡同 Hútòng): Explore Beijing's traditional narrow alleys and courtyard residences by rickshaw or walking tour. Prince Gong's Mansion (恭王府 Gōng Wáng Fǔ): Visit this well-preserved imperial residence with beautiful gardens and architecture. Yonghe Lama Temple (雍和宫 Yōng hé Gōng): Discover Tibetan Buddhist culture in this stunning temple complex. National Museum of China (中国国家博物馆 Zhōngguó Guójiā Bówùguǎn): Explore China's history and culture through extensive exhibits and artifacts. Beijing National Aquatics Center (Water Cube) (北京国家游泳中心 Běijīng Guójiā Yóuyǒng Zhōngxīn): Visit the iconic venue from the 2008 Olympics, now transformed into a water park. Beijing Ancient Architecture Museum (北京古建筑博物馆 Běijīng Gǔ Jiànzhù Bówùguǎn): Learn about traditional Chinese architecture in this unique museum. Beijing Railway Museum (北京铁路博物馆 Běijīng Tiělù Bówùguǎn): Explore the history of Chinese railways with exhibits of locomotives and artifacts. National Centre for the Performing Arts (国家大剧院 Guójiā Dàjùyuàn): Marvel at the futuristic architecture and enjoy performances in this iconic venue. Beijing Capital Museum (北京首都博物馆 Běijīng Shǒudū Bówùguǎn): Discover Chinese art and history through extensive collections and exhibitions. Beijing Ming Tombs (明十三陵 Míng Shísān Líng): Explore the burial site of Ming Dynasty emperors with grand architecture and scenic surroundings. Beijing Museum of Natural History (中国科学技术馆 Zhōngguó Kēxué Jìshùguǎn): Learn about the natural world with exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and ecosystems. Beijing Bell and Drum Towers (北京钟鼓楼 Běijīng Zhōnggǔ Lóu): Visit these historic structures and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Capital Library of China (中国国家图书馆 Zhōngguó Guójiā Túshūguǎn): Explore a vast collection of books and cultural resources in this modern library. Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) (圆明园 Yuánmíngyuán): Explore the ruins of this historic imperial palace complex with beautiful gardens. Beijing National Art Museum (北京国家艺术博物馆 Běijīng Guójiā Yìshù Bówùguǎn): Discover Chinese art through extensive collections of painting, sculpture, and calligraphy. Beijing Modern Art Gallery (北京现代美术馆 Běijīng Xiàndài Měishùguǎn): Explore contemporary Chinese art in this vibrant gallery space. Beijing Aviation Museum (北京航空馆 Běijīng Hángkōngguǎn): Learn about the history of aviation in China with exhibits of aircraft and technology. Beijing Confucius Temple and Imperial College (北京孔庙和国子监 Běijīng Kǒngmiào hé Guózǐjiàn): Discover Confucian culture in this historic temple and educational institution. Beijing South Railway Station (北京南站 Běijīng Nánzhàn): Experience modern transportation and marvel at the architecture of this major railway hub. Beijing Dongyue Temple (北京东岳庙 Běijīng Dōngyuèmiào): Explore Chinese folk religion and mythology in this unique temple complex. Beijing Shijingshan Amusement Park (北京石景山游乐园 Běijīng Shíjǐngshān Yóulèyuán): Enjoy rides and attractions in this popular amusement park. Beijing Garden Expo Park (北京园博园 Běijīng Yuánbóyuán): Explore beautiful gardens and landscapes in this scenic park. Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest) (北京国家体育场 Běijīng Guójiā Tǐyùchǎng): Visit the iconic Olympic venue and explore its architecture. Beijing Capital Museum (北京首都博物馆 Běijīng Shǒudū Bówùguǎn): Discover Chinese art and history through extensive collections and exhibitions. Beijing Ming Tombs (明十三陵 Míng Shísān Líng): Explore the burial site of Ming Dynasty emperors with grand architecture and scenic surroundings. Beijing Museum of Natural History (中国科学技术馆 Zhōngguó Kēxué Jìshùguǎn): Learn about the natural world with exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and ecosystems. Beijing Bell and Drum Towers (北京钟鼓楼 Běijīng Zhōnggǔ Lóu): Visit these historic structures and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Capital Library of China (中国国家图书馆 Zhōngguó Guójiā Túshūguǎn): Explore a vast collection of books and cultural resources in this modern library. Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) (圆明园 Yuánmíngyuán): Explore the ruins of this historic imperial palace complex with beautiful gardens.

YuánMíngYuán was the original Summer Palace in BeiJing and sometimes referred to as the 'Old Summer Palace'. YuanMingYuan lies 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of central Beijing, close to the (new) Summer Palace (YíHéYuán 颐和园). It was constructed during the 18th and early 19th centuries and was a wonderland of lakes and waterways, bridges, hills and pavilions. There were originally towers, terraces, pavilions, halls, corridors, pagodas and bridges with a total construction area of 150,000 square meters. Artisans were recruited from all over China to enact the exquisite settings. Many of the 160 scenic spots were reproductions of famous mountains, rivers and famous gardens in China. The various styles of architecture, standing encircled by hills and streams, presented a most picturesque view. In addition, hundreds of invaluable Chinese art masterpieces and antiquities were stored in the halls, including some unique copies of literary works and collections. YuanMingYuan was, indeed, a veritable museum of garden construction and horticulture. Known to be one of the largest museums in the world, a popular name in China was the 'Garden of Gardens'. In 1860 during the 'Second Opium War', YuanMingYuan was looted then burned down by imperialist British and French troops. So great was the devastation that a new Summer Palace was later built nearby.

With Clare Traveling Pandaland ... Tengchong, Yunnan Province: A Visitor's Guide Tengchong, located in the western part of Yunnan Province near the border with Myanmar, is a gem of natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and historical significance, it offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. How to Get There By Air: Tengchong Tuofeng Airport connects the city to major Chinese cities like Kunming and Chengdu. By Road: A scenic drive from Kunming takes around 8–10 hours by car or bus, passing through the mountainous Yunnan terrain. Top Attractions 1. Rehai Hot Springs Why Visit: Known as "Hot Sea," this geothermal area has over 80 hot spring pools, each with unique properties. Some are perfect for a relaxing soak, while others are too hot and are used for steaming food or traditional therapies. Don’t Miss: Try the therapeutic spa treatments or soak in an outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery. 2. Tengchong Volcanic Geothermal National Park Highlights: Home to dormant volcanic craters and lava fields, this park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. Activities: Climb up volcanoes like Dakongshan (Large Empty Mountain) for panoramic views, or explore the Lava Stone Forest. 3. Heshun Ancient Town Why Visit: A quaint town filled with cobbled streets, traditional Yunnan-style homes, and a rich history of overseas Chinese who returned home. Must-See: Visit the Heshun Library, one of the oldest private libraries in China, and explore the charming teahouses and ancestral halls. 4. Beihai Wetlands Overview: This serene area features floating meadows and diverse bird species. Activities: Take a boat ride through the wetlands or enjoy bird-watching during migratory seasons. 5. Yunfeng Mountain Why Visit: A sacred Taoist site with an ancient temple at its peak. What to Do: Hike or take a cable car up the mountain, then enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 6. Dianmian Anti-Japanese War Memorial Historical Importance: Tengchong was a key battleground during WWII. This memorial honors the local and international soldiers who fought against Japanese forces. What to See: Artifacts, photographs, and the reconstructed battle sites. Cultural Highlights Traditional Crafts: Tengchong is famous for its jade carving. Visit local workshops to see artisans at work or purchase unique jade jewelry. Ethnic Diversity: Experience the culture of the Bai, Dai, and Lisu ethnic groups through their festivals, dances, and cuisines. Local Cuisine Signature Dishes: Guoqiao Mixian (Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles): A flavorful noodle soup with a variety of toppings. Bamboo Rice: Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes. Tengchong Fried Pork: Crispy pork stir-fried with local spices. Mushroom Hotpot: A must-try with Yunnan’s diverse range of wild mushrooms. Snacks: Don’t miss the fengmi baba (honey glutinous rice cake) or fried potato balls. Best Time to Visit Spring and Autumn (March–May, September–November): These seasons offer mild weather and clear skies, perfect for outdoor exploration. Winter (December–February): Ideal for enjoying the hot springs, though mornings and evenings can be chilly. Shopping Jade and Gemstones: Tengchong is renowned for its high-quality jade. Look for authentic pieces in certified stores. Local Handicrafts: Embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and bamboo products make great souvenirs. Tea: Yunnan is known for its Pu’er and black teas, widely available in Tengchong. Practical Tips Language: Mandarin is widely spoken, though some locals speak Yunnan dialects. Learn a few basic phrases for ease of communication. Currency: Bring enough cash, as rural areas may not accept cards or digital payments. Transportation: Rent a bicycle or use tuk-tuks to explore small towns like Heshun. Clothing: Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate between day and night, especially in the mountains. Day Trips Ruili: A bustling border town with vibrant markets and a mix of Chinese and Burmese cultures. Myanmar Border: Visit the border towns to experience the unique blend of Chinese and Burmese influences. Tengchong is a destination that beautifully combines natural wonders, cultural depth, and historical significance, offering something for every traveler.

With China Walking Tour ...