Mountain biking, roller-blading and snow-boarding in BeiJing 北京

All restaurants will have dishes to cater for vegans and vegetarians but to be certain there's no trace of meat or meat oil or egg in your food, head to a specialized vegetarian restaurant. There are quite a few in all major cities but you'll need to look them up on the net. Some of these are run by devotees, some exist to cater to Buddhist people. Some have 'meat substitutes', such as vegetable based chicken, duck, prawns, etc., made from things like bean curd and mushroom, and are remarkably good. In these films, Nadine shows us some of what you can eat in BeiJing ... Hot tip : A great dish you can get at many restaurants is Di San Xian 地三鮮 (literally, '3 things from the earth') - stir fried potato, aubergine (egg-plant) and green pepper. Mildly spicy, filling, comforting and delicious; a great choice for anyone. Bonus film - a wander through BeiJing and a trip to the Great Wall of China (GuBeiKou and SiMaTai) ...

One of the 'Eight Great Ancient Capitals' of China. Great music in this beautiful film ...

With China Road Tales ...

With JiangXi China ... WuYuan Ancient Town, located in JiangXi province, is a place of historical and cultural significance, known for its well-preserved architecture and picturesque scenery. The town is often referred to as a "living museum" of ancient Chinese culture, offering a glimpse into the country's rich historical past. Historical Significance Wuyuan Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years. It flourished during the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties and continued to thrive through the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties. The town's strategic location and prosperous agricultural economy contributed to its development as a cultural and commercial hub. Architecture The architecture of Wuyuan Ancient Town is a highlight, featuring traditional Chinese structures such as ancestral halls, temples, and residential buildings. These structures are characterized by their intricate woodwork, stone carvings, and tile-roofed houses. The well-preserved buildings reflect the elegance and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese architectural styles. Natural Beauty Wuyuan is also renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush mountains, winding rivers, and terraced fields, creating a picturesque setting that changes with the seasons. In spring, the blooming canola flowers turn the fields into a sea of yellow, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts from all over the country. Culture and Traditions Wuyuan Ancient Town is rich in cultural heritage and traditions. The local customs, festivals, and folk arts are well-preserved, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Chinese culture firsthand. The town hosts various cultural events, including lantern festivals, dragon boat races, and traditional opera performances. Notable Sites Some of the notable sites in Wuyuan Ancient Town include: Likeng Village: Known for its beautiful ancient buildings and tranquil environment, Likeng Village offers a glimpse into traditional rural life in China. Rainbow Bridge: A historic covered bridge that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Wuyuan, featuring unique wooden architecture. Xiaoqi Village: Famous for its ancient merchant houses and well-preserved cultural relics. Jiangwan Village: A historic village with a rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture. Tourism and Accessibility Wuyuan Ancient Town has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical charm and natural beauty. The town is easily accessible from major cities in Guangxi and neighboring provinces. Efforts have been made to preserve the town's cultural heritage while developing infrastructure to accommodate tourists.

Welcome to Beijing! Discover the vibrant capital city of China, where ancient history meets modernity. Beijing, with its rich heritage, iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and bustling streets, promises an unforgettable journey. About Beijing Beijing, also known as Peking, is the political, cultural, and educational center of China. As one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations, Beijing has been the heart of Chinese history for centuries. Key features of Beijing include its historic hutongs (narrow alleys), ancient palaces, and temples alongside modern skyscrapers and shopping malls. The city is renowned for its role in Chinese history, serving as the capital of several dynasties. Top Attractions Forbidden City (Palace Museum): Explore the largest imperial palace complex in the world, with over 9,000 rooms filled with treasures and historical artifacts. Great Wall of China: Visit iconic sections like Badaling, Mutianyu, or Jinshanling for stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Tiananmen Square: Discover the heart of Beijing and witness the monumental Tiananmen Gate, Chairman Mao's Mausoleum, and the National Museum of China. Temple of Heaven: Experience the spiritual ambiance of this ancient temple complex where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Summer Palace: Wander through lush gardens, pavilions, and Kunming Lake at this UNESCO-listed royal retreat. Hutong Tour: Take a rickshaw ride through traditional hutongs to see local life and visit courtyard homes. 798 Art District: Explore Beijing's contemporary art scene in a former factory complex filled with galleries, studios, and cafes. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple): Admire the impressive Tibetan-style architecture and giant Buddha statue at this active Buddhist temple. National Museum of China: Learn about Chinese history, art, and culture through extensive exhibitions. Culture and History Beijing is steeped in cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into China's ancient traditions and customs. Peking Opera: Attend a live performance of this traditional art form known for its colorful costumes, music, and storytelling. Chinese Tea Culture: Visit tea houses to sample different teas and participate in tea ceremonies. Imperial Architecture: Marvel at the architectural marvels of the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven. Traditional Festivals: Experience festive celebrations during Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival. Beijing Cuisine: Indulge in local specialties such as Peking duck, hotpot, dumplings, and street food delicacies. Dining in Beijing Beijing offers a diverse culinary landscape, from gourmet dining to street-side snacks. Peking Duck: Savor the crispy-skinned duck at renowned restaurants like Quanjude or Da Dong. Street Food: Explore Wangfujing Snack Street for a variety of local snacks, skewers, and sweets. Hutong Restaurants: Dine in historic courtyard homes serving homestyle Beijing cuisine. Hotpot: Enjoy interactive dining with a bubbling pot of broth and fresh ingredients. Dumplings and Noodles: Try handmade jiaozi (dumplings) and la mian (hand-pulled noodles) in bustling noodle shops. Teahouses: Relax in traditional teahouses and sample regional teas paired with snacks. Shopping in Beijing Discover unique souvenirs, antiques, and modern goods in Beijing's vibrant shopping districts. Silk Market: Bargain for silk products, clothing, and accessories at this bustling market. Wangfujing Street: Shop for international brands, local goods, and Beijing-style snacks. Panjiayuan Antique Market: Browse through a vast array of antiques, ceramics, and curios. Hongqiao Pearl Market: Find pearls, jewelry, and electronics at competitive prices. Dashilar Street: Explore historic Dashilar alley for traditional handicrafts and nostalgic items. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases; use translation apps for communication. Currency: Use Chinese Yuan (CNY); major credit cards accepted in tourist areas. Transportation: Navigate the city with the extensive subway system, buses, taxis, and ridesharing apps. Accommodation: Choose from luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, or budget-friendly hostels. Etiquette: Respect local customs, such as using both hands to receive items and addressing people with courtesy. Safety: Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas; keep valuables secure. Internet Access: Purchase a local SIM card for mobile data; free Wi-Fi available in many public places. Health and Hygiene: Carry bottled water and practice good hygiene; be aware of air quality during winter. Enjoy Your Journey in Beijing! Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, rich history, and captivating experiences that Beijing has to offer. Whether you're exploring ancient landmarks or indulging in local cuisine, Beijing promises an unforgettable journey that will leave lasting memories.

With DuckTravel ... Welcome to ZhouZhuang Discover the Venice of the East About ZhouZhuang ZhouZhuang, known as the "Venice of the East," is one of the most famous water towns in China. Located in Kunshan, Jiangsu province, it is renowned for its well-preserved ancient residential houses, elegant watery views, and profound cultural background. The town has a history of over 900 years and retains the style and pattern of its ancient past, with many houses built in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Attractions Shuangqiao (Twin Bridges) Shuangqiao, also known as the Twin Bridges, is the most famous site in ZhouZhuang. The two bridges, Shide Bridge and Yong'an Bridge, are connected at a right angle and have become a symbol of the town. Fu'an Bridge Fu'an Bridge, built in 1355, is an architectural gem with a unique combination of a bridge, tower, and pavilion. It offers a picturesque view of the waterways and houses. Zhang House The Zhang House, built in the Ming Dynasty, covers an area of over 1,800 square meters. It showcases classic Chinese residential architecture and beautifully decorated interiors. Shen House The Shen House, constructed in 1742, is another example of traditional Chinese architecture. It features 100 rooms and a garden, reflecting the life of a wealthy merchant family. Local Food ZhouZhuang is not only famous for its scenery but also for its delicious local food. Here are some must-try dishes: Wansan Pork Hock: A famous dish named after the wealthy merchant Shen Wansan. The pork hock is braised to perfection with a rich, savory flavor. Sanwei Glutinous Rice Balls: A traditional snack made from glutinous rice with sweet, salty, and spicy fillings, representing the three flavors. Fish Delicacies: Freshwater fish dishes are a staple in ZhouZhuang, often cooked with local herbs and spices to enhance their natural flavors. Transport ZhouZhuang is easily accessible from major cities like Shanghai and Suzhou. Here are some ways to get there: By Bus: Regular buses run from Shanghai and Suzhou to ZhouZhuang, taking about 1-2 hours. By Car: You can drive from Shanghai to ZhouZhuang in about 1.5 hours. Parking is available at the entrance of the town. By Tour: Many travel agencies offer day trips to ZhouZhuang, including transportation and guided tours.