On the road to happiness : XinJiang

With Wei's Travel ... Bonus film - with Walk East - Bund night walk, looking across the HuangPu river to PuDong ... Bonus film 2 - with Gecko Walks - LuJiaZui ...

With Walk East ... Phoenix ancient town, night walk ...

A selection of the songs and fireworks ...

Studying in HaiKou 海口, the capital of the island province.

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.

Old / Ancient Towns in China Lijiang Old Town 丽江古城 (Lìjiāng Gǔchéng): Step back in time in the ancient town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals. Lijiang Old Town is home to traditional Naxi culture and features historic landmarks such as the Mu Palace, the Black Dragon Pool, and the Wangu Tower. Visitors can wander through the maze-like streets, admire the intricate wooden buildings, and experience the vibrant local culture. Fenghuang Ancient Town 凤凰古城 (Fènghuáng Gǔchéng): Discover the charm of Fenghuang Ancient Town, nestled along the banks of the Tuo River in Hunan Province. Fenghuang is known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, ancient bridges, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, explore historic temples and ancestral halls, and admire the traditional Miao ethnic minority culture. Pingyao Ancient Town 平遥古城 (Píngyáo Gǔchéng): Explore the ancient walled city of Pingyao, one of China's best-preserved ancient towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pingyao Ancient Town dates back over 2,700 years and is known for its well-preserved city walls, historic courtyards, and ancient temples. Visitors can walk along the fortified walls, explore the narrow alleyways, and learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Zhujiajiao Ancient Town 朱家角古镇 (Zhūjiājiǎo Gǔzhèn): Experience the charm of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, located on the outskirts of Shanghai. Zhujiajiao is known for its scenic canals, stone bridges, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visitors can take a boat ride along the canals, explore historic landmarks such as the Fangsheng Bridge and the Kezhi Garden, and sample local delicacies at traditional teahouses and restaurants. Xitang Ancient Town 西塘古镇 (Xītáng Gǔzhèn): Discover the beauty of Xitang Ancient Town, a water town known for its tranquil canals, ancient bridges, and traditional architecture. Xitang has been featured in numerous films and is renowned for its picturesque scenery and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, explore historic residences and temples, and take a boat ride along the scenic waterways. Wuzhen Ancient Town 乌镇古镇 (Wūzhèn Gǔzhèn): Step back in time in the ancient water town of Wuzhen, known for its well-preserved Qing dynasty architecture, scenic canals, and traditional way of life. Wuzhen is divided into two main districts: the East Scenic Area, which features historic residences and workshops, and the West Scenic Area, which offers a glimpse into rural life along the waterways. Visitors can explore ancient temples, watch traditional performances, and sample local specialties such as Wuzhen rice wine and shadow puppetry. Shaxi Ancient Town 沙溪古镇 (Shāxī Gǔzhèn): Explore the historic town of Shaxi, located along the ancient Tea Horse Road in Yunnan Province. Shaxi is known for its well-preserved Bai ethnic minority architecture, traditional cobblestone streets, and ancient market square. Visitors can wander through the town's labyrinth of alleyways, visit the historic Xingjiao Temple, and hike to the nearby Shibao Mountain to see its intricate Buddhist carvings. Zhaoxing Dong Village 肇兴侗寨 (Zhàoxīng Dòngzhài): Experience the unique culture of the Dong ethnic minority in Zhaoxing Dong Village, located in Guizhou Province. Zhaoxing is known for its traditional wooden houses, ancient wind and rain bridges, and terraced rice paddies. Visitors can explore the village's cobblestone streets, visit the Drum Tower and the Wind and Rain Bridge, and attend traditional Dong festivals and performances. Jinli Ancient Street 锦里古街 (Jǐnlǐ Gǔjiē): Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jinli Ancient Street, a historic street in Chengdu known for its traditional architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant street food scene. Jinli Street dates back over 2,000 years and has been restored to its former glory, with ancient-style buildings housing teahouses, shops, and snack stalls. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as Sichuan hotpot, stinky tofu, and spicy skewers, shop for souvenirs and handicrafts, and enjoy traditional performances such as Sichuan opera and shadow puppetry. Pingle Ancient Town 平乐古镇 (Pínglè Gǔzhèn): Discover the charm of Pingle Ancient Town, located in Sichuan Province and known for its well-preserved Tang and Song dynasty architecture, ancient streets, and historic landmarks. Pingle is nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Qingcheng Mountains and is surrounded by lush forests, bamboo groves, and tea plantations. Visitors can explore the town's ancient streets, visit historic temples and ancestral halls, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the Qingcheng Mountains.

Filmed, edited and produced by : Maarten de Haas. Places include GuiLin, YangShuo, The Great Wall of China, the 'Avatar mountains' of ZhangJiaJie, DeQin, ShangRiLa, Tibet and Tiger Leaping Gorge.

With Walkabout Rojo ...