SanYa 三亚 holiday, HaiNan

Making baozi (steamed buns) with freshly ground wheat flour. Real, down to earth life; beautiful. Don't miss it ...

A look at how the city of ShenZhen is leading the way in robots, electric vehicles and solar powered charging stations, plus an automated parking solution ... Bonus films - aerial view of ShenZhen by drone ... plus, driving around ShenZhen ...

A stunning performance from the Opening Gala of the Asian Games 2010 in GuangZhou. GuangZhou has been a major port for over 1,000 years and gateway to the Silk Road of the Sea.

With CGTN / Travelogue ... The eight surrounding temples - with Beijing Old Liu ... With Silver Walks ... ChengDe visitor guide Overview ChengDe, located in HeBei province, is home to China's ancient royal summer retreat, known as the ChengDe Mountain Resort. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a historical complex of palaces, gardens, and temples used by the Qing dynasty emperors as a summer escape. The resort, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, showcases the grandeur and elegance of Chinese imperial architecture. History Construction of the ChengDe Mountain Resort began in 1703 under the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing dynasty and took nearly 90 years to complete. The resort served as a summer residence for Qing emperors, providing a cooler climate and a peaceful retreat from the summer heat of Beijing. It also served as a political center for managing affairs with ethnic minorities and foreign dignitaries. Main Attractions Rehe Palace The Rehe Palace is the central area of the ChengDe Mountain Resort, where the emperors conducted state affairs and received guests. The palace complex includes several halls and pavilions, each with its unique architectural features and historical significance. Lake Area The lake area of the resort is a serene and picturesque section featuring a series of interconnected lakes and islands. The lakes are surrounded by pavilions, bridges, and gardens, offering stunning views and a peaceful ambiance. Plain Area The plain area is an expansive open space designed to mimic the landscapes of the northern grasslands. It includes grazing areas, hunting grounds, and fields used for archery and other activities. The area reflects the Qing emperors' admiration for the vast, open plains of their Manchu heritage. Temple of Universal Peace (PuNing Temple) The Temple of Universal Peace, also known as PuNing Temple, is one of the Eight Outer Temples built around the ChengDe Mountain Resort. The temple is famous for its large wooden statue of Avalokitesvara (Guanyin) and its beautiful architectural blend of Han and Tibetan styles. Temple of Putuo Zongcheng The Temple of Putuo Zongcheng, inspired by the Potala Palace in Tibet, is another significant temple near the resort. It was built to celebrate the emperor's birthday and to strengthen ties with Tibetan Buddhism. The temple complex is an impressive display of Tibetan-style architecture. Culture and Traditions ChengDe Mountain Resort and its surrounding temples are a testament to the Qing dynasty's cultural and religious diversity. The site reflects the harmonious coexistence of Han Chinese, Tibetan, Mongolian, and other ethnic traditions. Visitors can witness traditional Chinese architecture, Tibetan Buddhist art, and Mongolian cultural elements, all within the resort complex. Activities and Experiences Guided Tours Consider joining a guided tour to explore the ChengDe Mountain Resort and its temples. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the site, enhancing your visit. Hiking and Nature Walks The resort is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. Visitors can enjoy hiking and nature walks along the well-maintained trails, offering stunning views and a chance to appreciate the area's natural beauty. Local Cuisine While in ChengDe, be sure to sample the local cuisine. The region is known for its unique dishes, such as ChengDe roasted lamb, Manchu-style hotpot, and various traditional snacks. Local restaurants and food stalls offer a taste of authentic HeBei flavors. Accommodation ChengDe offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Staying in a local hotel provides convenient access to the resort and other attractions in the area. Many hotels offer traditional Chinese decor and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit ChengDe is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Getting There: ChengDe is accessible by train or bus from Beijing. The high-speed train from Beijing to ChengDe takes approximately 2 hours. Local transportation options include taxis and buses. Opening Hours: The ChengDe Mountain Resort is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The surrounding temples have similar opening hours. Entrance Fees: There is an entrance fee for the ChengDe Mountain Resort and additional fees for visiting the surrounding temples. Combo tickets are available for multiple attractions. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountainous areas. Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and historical sites, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

The shiitake mushroom is native to east Asia (especially China and Japan), and is cultivated and consumed in many Asian countries. It is considered a medicinal mushroom in traditional Asian medicine, and tastes great. In the West you can find these in dried form at many Asian stores, and even large supermarkets, possibly in the 'ethnic' section. Soak in warm water before use. A must try. Bonus film - Matsutake mushrooms 松茸 ...

With Mark Hyman and Calley Means ...

In a few hours it will be China's 'Singles Day' 11 / 11. Single ? Celebrate your freedom ;) Regardless, we hope all our visitors will one day find (or have found) their true love ... Romantic songs galore ... When love calls your name ... are you ready to believe ? Are you strong enough, to trust in love ...? No matter what ... Forever my baby; always yours ... A beautiful heart creates our paradise ... It can be a beautiful world, when you share your dream ... It's amazing ! You can count on me ... Three little words :Wo ai ni (I love you) ... Waiting for my chance,I was lost, then found,All I know is :We're all in the dance. One life ... one love ... Beginning with 'Superhero Wedding' ...

With Walk For You ... Bonus film - with Seiu Travel ... Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park Guide - Beijing Overview Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park is designed to resemble a European town, complete with cobblestone streets and a picturesque lake. It covers a vast area and offers a diverse mix of international and local brands, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options. Getting There Location: No. 6 Chaoyang Park Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China. Public Transport: Subway: Line 14, Zaoying Station, Exit A. Walk about 10 minutes to reach the mall. Bus: Multiple bus lines stop near the mall, including 419, 621, 671, 984, and 985. Shopping Solana hosts a variety of stores ranging from luxury brands to more affordable options. Some popular retail categories include: Fashion: Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, and high-end brands like Michael Kors and Guess. Beauty: Sephora, The Body Shop. Home Decor: Muji, Zara Home. Electronics: Apple Store, Xiaomi. Dining The mall offers an extensive selection of dining options, catering to diverse tastes: Western Cuisine: Blue Frog, Element Fresh, and Wagas. Asian Cuisine: Din Tai Fung for dumplings, Haidilao for hotpot. Cafes: Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and local favorites like Pacific Coffee. Specialty Food: Bakeries, ice cream parlors, and specialty tea shops. Entertainment Solana is not just about shopping and dining; it also provides various entertainment options: Cinema: A state-of-the-art cinema showing the latest movies, including IMAX screens. Kids' Activities: Indoor playgrounds, toy stores, and seasonal events for children. Outdoor Spaces: The park surrounding the mall is great for a stroll, with picturesque views and seasonal decorations. Special Events Throughout the year, Solana hosts various events and festivals, such as: Holiday Decorations: Elaborate Christmas and Chinese New Year decorations. Music and Cultural Festivals: Live music performances, art exhibitions, and cultural shows. Sales and Promotions: Seasonal sales, especially during Chinese New Year and Golden Week holidays. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Language: While many staff members speak basic English, having a translation app can be handy. Payment: Most stores accept major credit cards, but having some cash or using mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay can be useful. Nearby Attractions Chaoyang Park: Adjacent to the mall, offering additional recreational activities. Sanlitun: A vibrant area with nightlife, shopping, and dining options, just a short drive away. Conclusion Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park offers a comprehensive shopping experience with its blend of retail, dining, and entertainment in a beautifully designed environment. Whether you're looking to shop, eat, or just enjoy a leisurely day out, Solana is an ideal destination in Beijing.