Music – Tibetan Plateau 青藏高原 – aLan Dawa Dolma

A beautiful mix of video and stills ... Places featured include: ShangHai PuDong Airport, Magnetic Levitation Train - Maglev, the Bund, Bund sightseeing tunnel panorama, PuDong Financial District, Oriental Pearl Tower, WFC World Financial Center Tower, JinMao Tower, NanJing Road by night, World Financial Center Tower Observatory, night view of skyscrapers, Sky Arena 94th floor, People's Square, Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, Shanghai Museum, Jade Buddha Temple, LongHua Pagoda, YuYuan Market, Yu garden, Tea House, HongQiao railway station, bullet train.

With Wei's Travel ...

With Redacted ... With Brian Berletic, Angelo Giuliano and Danny HaiPhong ... With Reportify Media and George Galloway ...

Metro systems The two largest metro systems in the world are in ShangHai and BeiJing. There are also metro systems in many other Chinese cities. These are all super modern, spacious, artistically appealing and easy to use for visitors with announcements in both Chinese and English, with signs both in Chinese and PinYin. Check out our videos on various Chinese metro systems. The Beijing metro system has over 600 miles of track and over 600 stations. It carries over 10 billion passengers annually, making it one of the busiest subway systems in the world. It operates one of the world's largest fleets of subway cars, with over 4,000 cars in service. The Beijing metro is also one of the most technologically advanced subway systems in the world, with many of its trains and stations equipped with advanced features such as automated train control, platform screen doors, and real-time passenger information systems. The Beijing metro is known for its distinctive architecture and design, with many stations featuring works of art, sculptures, and other design elements. It is also known for its efficient and fast service, with trains running at high frequencies and minimal delays. The Beijing metro is also very affordable and accessible, with fares starting from as low as CNY3 (about $0.4 / £0.35) for a single journey with discounts for frequent users. It has also been made more convenient for tourists by allowing the use of contactless payment methods such as WeChat Pay, Alipay and UnionPay. Taxis In China, taxis are easy to find and very affordable, unlike in the West; they are widely used by nearly everyone. For example, Beijing has approximately 66,000 registered taxi vehicles operating in the city as of 2021. The standard taxi fare in Beijing is around ¥13 (or about $2 / £1.40) for the first 3 kilometers (about 1.8 miles) plus an additional ¥2.3 (about $0.35 / £0.25) for each additional kilometer. There can be higher tariffs for night time (after midnight). High speed rail China has built one of the most extensive high-speed rail networks in the world, which is known for its speed, efficiency, and connectivity. China has the world's largest high-speed rail network, with over 22,000 miles of track and over 350 stations. The high-speed rail network operates at speeds of up to 217 mph, making it one of the fastest in the world. China's high-speed rail system carries over 3 billion passengers annually, making it the busiest high-speed rail networks in the world. China's high-speed rail system is also affordable and accessible, with fares starting from as low as CNY50 (about $7) for a single journey and discounts for frequent users. China has also been exporting its high-speed rail technology and know-how to other countries such as Indonesia, Turkey, Russia and more. Air travel Air travel is an important part of China's transportation system, with several major airports and a rapidly growing number of passengers. Here are some facts about air travel in China: China has over 220 commercial airports, making it the country with the second-largest number of airports in the world, behind the United States. China's three major airports are Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. These three airports handle a large number of passengers annually, with Beijing Capital International Airport handling over 100 million passengers in 2020. China's domestic air travel market is the second-largest in the world, behind the United States, with over 600 million passengers in 2020 and over 60 million international passengers. China's air travel market has been expanding rapidly in recent years, with several new airports and routes being added. China's major airlines, such as Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, are among the largest in the world, and they operate a large fleet of modern aircraft. It is also becoming more affordable, with the increasing competition between airlines leading to lower fares. China's air travel market is also becoming more convenient for travelers, with the increasing use of online booking and check-in, as well as the introduction of e-visas for some countries. It is also becoming more sustainable, with many airlines investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft and implementing more environmentally-friendly practices. China's air travel market is a modern, efficient, and highly-used transportation system that connects many of the country's major cities and helps to keep the country moving. It is constantly evolving to match the country's needs and to make the passenger experience more pleasant, but also to reduce its impact on the environment.

Including the capital, XiNing, and QingHai Lake ...

With Travel With Fawn ... Daocheng Yading: The Last Shangri-La Introduction Daocheng Yading, often referred to as "The Last Shangri-La," is located in the southwestern part of Sichuan Province, China. This remote and pristine region is part of the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including majestic snow-capped mountains, clear alpine lakes, and lush forests. Daocheng Yading is considered one of the most beautiful places in China, attracting travelers seeking untouched landscapes and spiritual solace. Geography and Location Daocheng Yading is located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level. It is part of the Hengduan Mountain Range, where the Tibetan Plateau begins. The area is characterized by its unique geological formations, including towering peaks, deep valleys, and a series of glacial lakes. Its remote location has helped preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a haven for both nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Historical and Cultural Significance Yading holds a special place in Tibetan Buddhism and is considered a sacred site. The three main peaks of Yading—Chenrezig (Xiannairi), Jampayang (Yangmaiyong), and Chanadorje (Xialuoduoji)—are believed to be manifestations of Bodhisattvas, making them objects of pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists. Throughout history, pilgrims have journeyed to Yading to pay their respects, meditate, and seek blessings. The region is also home to several Tibetan communities that have maintained their traditional way of life. Visitors to Daocheng Yading can experience Tibetan culture, including local customs, religious practices, and Tibetan cuisine. The presence of Tibetan monasteries and prayer flags throughout the landscape adds to the spiritual ambiance of Yading. Scenic Highlights Three Sacred Mountains: The iconic peaks of Chenrezig (6,032 meters), Jampayang (5,958 meters), and Chanadorje (5,958 meters) are the main attractions of Yading. These snow-capped mountains are not only visually stunning but also spiritually significant. Chenrezig, the highest peak, is named after Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Milk Lake (Niunai Lake): A striking turquoise glacial lake located at the base of Jampayang. Milk Lake's vivid color and the surrounding rugged terrain make it a popular destination for hikers and photographers. Five Color Lake (Wuse Lake): Located near Milk Lake, Five Color Lake is famous for its ability to reflect multiple colors due to the minerals in the water and changing light conditions. The lake's surface can display hues of blue, green, yellow, and even purple, depending on the time of day and weather. Luorong Pasture: A high-altitude meadow that offers spectacular views of the three sacred mountains. This pasture is a serene spot for visitors to rest and take in the natural beauty, with yaks grazing amidst the backdrop of towering peaks. Chonggu Monastery: An ancient Tibetan Buddhist monastery located at the entrance of Yading Nature Reserve. The monastery provides insights into Tibetan religious practices and serves as a spiritual gateway to the sacred mountains. Trekking and Hiking Routes Daocheng Yading is a paradise for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Several well-marked trails offer varying levels of difficulty, catering to both casual hikers and experienced trekkers. The most popular trekking route is the Yading Outer Kora, a challenging multi-day trek that circles the three sacred mountains. This trek provides a comprehensive experience of Yading's natural beauty and spiritual significance. Another popular option is the Inner Kora, a shorter but still demanding trek that takes hikers closer to the base of the sacred peaks. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, day hikes to Milk Lake and Five Color Lake offer stunning views and a taste of Yading's grandeur without the need for extensive trekking. Flora and Fauna Daocheng Yading is known for its rich biodiversity. The region's varied altitudes and climates support a wide range of plant and animal species. The lower altitudes are covered in dense forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron, which bloom spectacularly in spring. As you ascend, the landscape transitions to alpine meadows, home to wildflowers and medicinal herbs. The region is also a sanctuary for wildlife, including species such as the Tibetan antelope, red panda, snow leopard, and various birds of prey. Birdwatchers will find Yading to be a prime location for observing both resident and migratory bird species. Efforts are made to preserve the ecological integrity of Yading, making it a model for conservation in China. Climate and Best Time to Visit The climate of Daocheng Yading is characterized by cold winters and mild summers, with significant temperature variations between day and night. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. In spring, the region comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning foliage and clear skies, making it ideal for photography and outdoor activities. Winter visits are possible but can be challenging due to heavy snowfall and cold temperatures, which may restrict access to some areas. Travelers should be prepared for high-altitude conditions year-round and pack accordingly. "Daocheng Yading is more than just a destination; it's a journey into the heart of Tibetan culture, spirituality, and the awe-inspiring beauty of nature." - A Travel Enthusiast Travel Tips and Recommendations Altitude Sickness: Daocheng Yading is located at a high altitude, and visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. It is advisable to spend a day acclimatizing in Daocheng town before ascending to Yading. Accommodation: Accommodations in Yading range from basic guesthouses to more comfortable hotels in Daocheng town. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Permits: Foreign visitors may require permits to enter certain areas of the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It's best to check with local authorities or travel agencies for the latest requirements. Guided Tours: Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the culture, history, and natural features of Yading. Guides can also help navigate the trekking routes and ensure a safe journey. Respect Local Customs: As a region with deep cultural and religious significance, visitors should respect local customs and traditions. This includes not disturbing prayer flags, stupas, or other religious artifacts, and seeking permission before photographing people or religious ceremonies. Getting There Daocheng Yading can be accessed by air and road: Transport Mode Details By Air Daocheng Yading Airport is the world's highest civilian airport, located at an altitude of 4,411 meters. Direct flights are available from major Chinese cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi'an. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or taxi to Daocheng town and then to Yading. By Road Road travel to Daocheng Yading involves scenic but long drives through mountainous terrain. Buses and private vehicles can be hired from Chengdu, with the journey taking around 20-25 hours. The drive, though lengthy, offers spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau and the chance to explore other attractions en route.

Eight Buddhist temples on a slope of the Western Hills, nearby XiangShan park (Fragrant Hills Park).

Geopolitics and economics (plus neo-liberalism, World Bank, IMF, ...) - finance capitalism over industrial capitalism - human rights turned into commodities - why the West seeks to keep all others poor - professor Michael Hudson lays it out ... Meanwhile ...