Outdoor exercising in China

A mix of classical and Chinese folk music staged on West Lake. Awesome ! Bonus films ... HangZhou : 'Heaven on Earth' - Marco Polo

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 ...

With China Walking Tour ... Visitor Guide to JiNan, ShanDong Province Overview JiNan, the capital city of ShanDong Province, is known for its natural springs, rich history, and vibrant culture. Often referred to as the "City of Springs," JiNan is a blend of historical landmarks and modern development, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. Getting There By Air: JiNan Yaoqiang International Airport (TNA) is located about 33 kilometers northeast of the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights. You can take an airport shuttle bus, taxi, or the JiNan Metro to reach the city center. By Train: JiNan is a major railway hub with two main stations: JiNan Railway Station and JiNan West Railway Station. Both stations offer high-speed rail connections to major cities like BeiJing, ShangHai, and Xi’an. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect JiNan to various cities in ShanDong Province and beyond. The main bus stations are JiNan Long-Distance Bus Terminal and JiNan East Bus Station. Getting Around Public Transport: JiNan has an extensive bus network and a growing metro system. The metro is convenient for getting around the city quickly. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. Biking: Bike-sharing services are popular and convenient for short trips around the city. Main Attractions Baotu Spring Park Baotu Spring Park is one of JiNan's most famous attractions, known for its clear and gushing springs. The park is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the natural scenery, traditional pavilions, and cultural performances. Daming Lake Daming Lake is a large natural lake in the heart of JiNan, surrounded by lush gardens, ancient pavilions, and historic temples. It is a popular spot for boating, picnicking, and enjoying the serene environment. Thousand Buddha Mountain (Qianfo Shan) This mountain is famous for its ancient Buddhist statues and temples. Visitors can hike to the top for a panoramic view of the city or explore the many caves and carvings along the way. ShanDong Provincial Museum ShanDong Provincial Museum houses a vast collection of cultural relics, historical artifacts, and natural exhibits. It offers a comprehensive overview of ShanDong's history and culture. Black Tiger Spring Black Tiger Spring is another renowned spring in JiNan, known for its powerful jets of water that resemble a tiger's roar. The spring is located in a scenic park with beautiful landscaping and walking paths. Local Cuisine JiNan's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Here are some must-try dishes: JiNan Roast Duck: A local specialty, this roast duck is known for its crispy skin and tender meat, served with pancakes and hoisin sauce. Sweet and Sour Carp: Fresh carp from Daming Lake, prepared in a tangy and sweet sauce, is a signature dish of JiNan. JiNan Noodles: These hand-pulled noodles are often served with a variety of toppings, including meat, vegetables, and spicy sauces. Fried Dumplings: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, JiNan's fried dumplings are a popular street food. Shopping Furong Street: A bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, street food vendors, and souvenir stalls. It's a great place to try local snacks and buy traditional crafts. Quancheng Road: One of JiNan's main shopping streets, offering a mix of modern malls, boutique shops, and local markets. JiNan Wanda Plaza: A large shopping mall with a variety of international and domestic brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel JiNan or the Hyatt Regency JiNan, both offering excellent amenities and service. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Sofitel JiNan Silver Plaza and Holiday Inn JiNan City Center provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the JiNan Blue Horizon Hotel offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit JiNan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: JiNan is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the parks, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion JiNan, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural springs, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, savoring the local cuisine, or strolling along the scenic lakes and springs, JiNan provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this fascinating city in ShanDong Province.

Planned for 50 years. Expected by 2025. With The New Atlas - Angelo Giuliano and Brian Berletic - don't miss it ... Bonus film - on Myanmar - with The New Atlas ... Bonus film 2 - on Thailand - with The New Atlas ... Bonus film 3 - with Professor Michael Hudson ... Bonus film 4 - the US / UK plot to assassinate Julian Assange - with The GrayZone ... Bonus film 5 - the US / UK plot to assassinate Julian Assange - with Going Underground / RT ... Bonus film 6 - the US / UK plot to assassinate Julian Assange - with The Moderate Rebels ... Bonud film 7 - How will AUKUS impact the ASEAN countries - with The New Atlas ...

Breaking free of the past to live a life beyond merely surviving. With Gabor Mate and Tom Bilyeu ...

Beautiful ZhouZhuang lies in JiangSu province, about 30 km southeast of Suzhou.

With This Is SiChuan ... Mount Emei Visitor Guide: Natural Beauty & Practical Travel Tips Mount Emei (Emei Shan), located in Sichuan Province, is one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its mist-shrouded peaks, ancient temples, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, it is a popular pilgrimage site and a destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. This guide will help you explore Mount Emei’s natural beauty while providing practical travel advice for a seamless visit. Golden Summit (Jinding) Overview: The Golden Summit is the highest point on Mount Emei, offering spectacular views, including the famous "Sea of Clouds." At an elevation of 3,077 meters, the summit is a spiritual hub for Buddhists, with the massive statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva serving as a highlight for visitors. Key Highlights: Golden Buddha Statue: The 48-meter tall statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva with ten faces is a stunning work of art, representing the mount's spiritual significance. Sea of Clouds: On clear mornings, you can witness the mesmerizing "Sea of Clouds" phenomenon, where the clouds form a dense layer beneath the summit. Sunrise & Sunset: Watching the sunrise or sunset from the Golden Summit is a breathtaking experience, as the sky turns vibrant shades of orange and pink. Travel Tip: Be prepared for the altitude by wearing warm clothing, especially in the early morning or evening. It’s recommended to take the cable car from Leidongping to save energy, but hikers can also make the journey on foot. Baoguo Temple Area Overview: Baoguo Temple is the starting point for most visitors to Mount Emei. Located at the base of the mountain, this area is home to one of the most important temples and serves as a hub for those preparing to explore the mountain. Key Highlights: Baoguo Temple: Built during the Ming Dynasty, this temple is dedicated to the worship of various Buddhist deities. It is an excellent place to start learning about the religious history of Mount Emei. Emei Buddhist Cultural Museum: Located within the temple grounds, this museum provides insight into the history of Buddhism in the region, along with relics and artwork. Travel Tip: Baoguo Temple is a peaceful place to begin your ascent. The surrounding area has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets, making it a convenient base for longer stays. Wannian Temple (Ten-Thousand-Year Temple) Overview: One of the oldest and most significant temples on Mount Emei, Wannian Temple dates back over 1,600 years. The temple is perched on the mountainside and offers great views as well as a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection. Key Highlights: Bronze Statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva: The temple houses a famous bronze statue of Samantabhadra riding an elephant, which is a major draw for pilgrims. Surrounding Trails: The area around Wannian Temple is filled with scenic trails that offer opportunities to explore the mountain’s flora and fauna. Travel Tip: Visitors can either hike to Wannian Temple or take the cable car from Wuxiangang Parking Lot. The trails offer stunning views but can be steep, so bring appropriate footwear. Qingyin Pavilion Overview: Qingyin Pavilion is a tranquil spot located halfway up Mount Emei, offering a place for rest and meditation. Surrounded by lush forests, clear streams, and waterfalls, it is an ideal location to experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of the mountain. Key Highlights: Scenic Bridges: The twin bridges crossing the crystal-clear waters are perfect for photos, and the sound of the running stream adds to the pavilion’s peaceful ambiance. Washing Elephant Pool: Located nearby, this sacred pool is associated with Buddhist mythology and is a quiet spot for reflection. Travel Tip: This is an ideal resting spot for those hiking up the mountain. There are small tea houses nearby where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds. Monkeys of Mount Emei Overview: The Tibetan macaques are a famous and sometimes mischievous presence on Mount Emei. These monkeys roam freely across the mountain and are often found near tourist areas. While they can be entertaining to watch, visitors should take care as the monkeys may attempt to snatch food or belongings. Key Highlights: Monkey Eco-Zone: Located along the main hiking trail, this area is where the monkeys are most active. Visitors can observe them up close but should avoid direct interaction. Travel Tip: Keep your belongings secure and do not feed the monkeys, as they can become aggressive. Stick to designated paths and follow the advice of local guides or staff to stay safe. Practical Travel Information for Mount Emei When to Visit The best time to visit Mount Emei is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the views are clear. Spring (April-May) offers blooming flowers, while autumn (September-October) provides colorful foliage. Winter visits are also possible, especially for those interested in snow-covered landscapes, but be prepared for cold conditions at higher altitudes. Getting to Mount Emei By Air: The closest airport is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, located about 150 kilometers away. From Chengdu, visitors can take a train or bus to Emeishan City. By Train: The high-speed train from Chengdu to Emeishan Station takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to the Baoguo Temple area, the starting point for exploring Mount Emei. By Bus: Regular buses run from Chengdu’s Xinnanmen Bus Station to Emeishan City, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. Accommodation Visitors can stay in Emeishan City or in the Baoguo Temple area, which has a variety of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. For those wishing to stay on the mountain itself, there are guesthouses and monasteries offering simple lodging for a more immersive experience. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Cultural Sensitivity As Mount Emei is a sacred Buddhist site, visitors should show respect when visiting temples and monasteries. Modest clothing is recommended, and it’s important to be mindful of local customs, especially when interacting with monks or pilgrims. Refrain from taking photos in sacred spaces unless permission is explicitly granted. Food and Dining Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold, spicy flavors. In Emeishan, you can find local dishes such as hotpot, mapo tofu, and various noodle dishes. For a unique experience, try the vegetarian meals offered at the mountain's temples, which are simple yet flavorful and often include locally sourced ingredients. Important Note: Always carry your passport and tickets when visiting the mountain, especially for entrance to the different scenic areas and cable cars. Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Mount Emei Day 1: Arrive in Emeishan City, visit Baoguo Temple, and relax in the hot springs nearby. Day 2: Hike or take the cable car to the Golden Summit for sunrise. Explore the summit area before descending to Wannian Temple. Day 3: Spend the day exploring Qingyin Pavilion and the Monkey Eco-Zone. Enjoy a tea break at a mountain tea house before returning to Emeishan City.

A very special world trip by an amazing Chinese family. Don't miss it ...

ChengDu: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Panda Base (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地 Chéngdū Dàxióngmāo Fányù Yánjiū Jīdì): Giant panda breeding and research center with exhibits and educational programs. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地 Chéngdū Dàxióngmāo Fányù Yánjiū Jīdì): Panda reserve with habitats, breeding facilities, and conservation efforts. Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷 Chéngdū Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages. Chengdu Zoo (成都动物园 Chéngdū Dòngwùyuán): Zoo with diverse animal exhibits, shows, and educational programs. Sichuan Science and Technology Museum (四川科技馆 Sìchuān Kējìguǎn): Interactive science museum with exhibits, experiments, and demonstrations. Chengdu Eastern Suburb Memory (成都东郊记忆 Chéngdū Dōngjiāo Jìyì): Cultural theme park with traditional architecture, performances, and activities. Chengdu Culture Park (成都文化公园 Chéngdū Wénhuà Gōngyuán): Park with historic sites, gardens, and cultural exhibitions. Chengdu Haichang Polar Ocean World (成都海昌极地海洋世界 Chéngdū Hǎichāng Jídì Hǎiyáng Shìjiè): Polar ocean park with marine life exhibits, shows, and activities. Happy Valley Water Park (欢乐谷水上乐园 Huānlègǔ Shuǐshàng Lèyuán): Water park with slides, pools, and water attractions for families. Chengdu Botanical Garden (成都植物园 Chéngdū Zhíwùyuán): Botanical garden with plant collections, greenhouses, and scenic landscapes. Chengdu Teddy Bear Museum (成都泰迪熊博物馆 Chéngdū Tàidíxióng Bówùguǎn): Museum with teddy bear exhibits, collections, and interactive displays. Chengdu Anren Ancient Town (成都安仁古镇 Chéngdū Ānrén Gǔzhèn): Historic town with preserved architecture, museums, and cultural heritage. Chengdu Shunxing Old Teahouse (成都顺兴老茶馆 Chéngdū Shùnxìng Lǎo Cháguǎn): Traditional teahouse with Sichuan opera performances, tea ceremonies, and snacks. Chengdu Anren Ancient Town (成都安仁古镇 Chéngdū Ānrén Gǔzhèn): Historic town with preserved architecture, museums, and cultural heritage. Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷 Chéngdū Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages. Chengdu Zoo (成都动物园 Chéngdū Dòngwùyuán): Zoo with diverse animal exhibits, shows, and educational programs. Chengdu Culture Park (成都文化公园 Chéngdū Wénhuà Gōngyuán): Park with historic sites, gardens, and cultural exhibitions. Chengdu Eastern Suburb Memory (成都东郊记忆 Chéngdū Dōngjiāo Jìyì): Cultural theme park with traditional architecture, performances, and activities. Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷 Chéngdū Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages. Chengdu Teddy Bear Museum (成都泰迪熊博物馆 Chéngdū Tàidíxióng Bówùguǎn): Museum with teddy bear exhibits, collections, and interactive displays. ChengDu: 30 More Places to Visit Chengdu Wuhou Shrine (成都武侯祠 Chéngdū Wǔhóu Cí): Temple and museum dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist. Wenshu Monastery (成都文殊院 Chéngdū Wénshū Yuàn): Buddhist monastery with historic buildings, gardens, and tea houses. Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum (成都金沙遗址博物馆 Chéngdū Jīnshā Yízhǐ Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on the Jinsha archaeological site and ancient artifacts. Chengdu Wide and Narrow Alley (宽窄巷子 Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi): Historic area with traditional architecture, shops, and street food. Chengdu Du Fu Thatched Cottage (成都杜甫草堂 Chéngdū Dù Fǔ Cǎotáng): Museum and park dedicated to the Tang dynasty poet Du Fu. Chengdu Tianfu Square (成都天府广场 Chéngdū Tiānfǔ Guǎngchǎng): Central square with landmarks, sculptures, and cultural events. Chengdu Sichuan Opera Museum (成都川剧博物馆 Chéngdū Chuānjù Bówùguǎn): Museum with exhibits on Sichuan opera costumes, masks, and performances. Chengdu Huanhuaxi Park (成都浣花溪公园 Chéngdū Huànhuāxī Gōngyuán): Park with rivers, bridges, and scenic landscapes for leisure and relaxation. Chengdu Jinli Ancient Street (成都锦里古街 Chéngdū Jǐnlǐ Gǔjiē): Historic street with traditional architecture, shops, and street vendors. Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷 Chéngdū Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages. Chengdu Zoo (成都动物园 Chéngdū Dòngwùyuán): Zoo with diverse animal exhibits, shows, and educational programs. Chengdu Culture Park (成都文化公园 Chéngdū Wénhuà Gōngyuán): Park with historic sites, gardens, and cultural exhibitions. Chengdu Eastern Suburb Memory (成都东郊记忆 Chéngdū Dōngjiāo Jìyì): Cultural theme park with traditional architecture, performances, and activities. Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷 Chéngdū Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages. Chengdu Teddy Bear Museum (成都泰迪熊博物馆 Chéngdū Tàidíxióng Bówùguǎn): Museum with teddy bear exhibits, collections, and interactive displays. Chengdu Anren Ancient Town (成都安仁古镇 Chéngdū Ānrén Gǔzhèn): Historic town with preserved architecture, museums, and cultural heritage. Chengdu Shunxing Old Teahouse (成都顺兴老茶馆 Chéngdū Shùnxìng Lǎo Cháguǎn): Traditional teahouse with Sichuan opera performances, tea ceremonies, and snacks. Chengdu Anren Ancient Town (成都安仁古镇 Chéngdū Ānrén Gǔzhèn): Historic town with preserved architecture, museums, and cultural heritage. Chengdu Happy Valley (成都欢乐谷 Chéngdū Huānlègǔ): Amusement park with rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages. Chengdu Teddy Bear Museum (成都泰迪熊博物馆 Chéngdū Tàidíxióng Bówùguǎn): Museum with teddy bear exhibits, collections, and interactive displays.