Scenes from ChengDe 承德

Surrounded by mountains on three sides, ChengDe in HeBei province, about 3 hours north east of Beijing, was a summer retreat for Ming emperor KangXi and also assocaited with emperors YongZheng and QianLong.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it features numerous scenic spots and is a great long weekend break. It is centered on the largest imperial park in China, with a surrounding wall of over 10km, which is a great hike. Within lie lakes and pagodas; beyond are eight temples in various architectural styles.

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HeBei map

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With Travel East ... With China Walking Tour ... Wuhan Dream Times Square Visitor Guide Introduction Wuhan Dream Times Square is a vibrant commercial and entertainment hub located in the heart of Wuhan. With its modern architecture, diverse shopping options, trendy dining venues, and exciting entertainment choices, Dream Times Square is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to this dynamic area. Key Attractions 1. Shopping Paradise Dream Times Square is home to a vast array of shops, ranging from high-end luxury brands to affordable fashion outlets. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, electronics, or unique gifts, you'll find something that suits your taste and budget. Some popular stores include: Gucci and Louis Vuitton: For those interested in luxury fashion, these flagship stores offer the latest in high-end apparel and accessories. UNIQLO and H&M: These well-known brands offer trendy and affordable clothing options for all ages. Local Boutiques: Discover unique fashion pieces and accessories from local designers in various boutiques throughout the square. 2. Entertainment Options Dream Times Square is more than just a shopping destination. It offers a variety of entertainment options for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect spot for a day out. Cinema Complex: Catch the latest blockbuster movies in state-of-the-art theaters with comfortable seating and high-quality sound systems. VR Experience Centers: Engage in immersive virtual reality experiences, from adventure games to futuristic simulations. Karaoke Bars: Unleash your inner pop star at one of the many karaoke bars, a popular activity for groups of friends and families. Dining Options Dream Times Square offers a diverse range of dining options to satisfy every palate. From local delicacies to international cuisine, there's something for everyone: Chinese Cuisine: Enjoy authentic Chinese dishes at restaurants such as Huanghe Lou Dumplings and Dong Lai Shun Hotpot, which offer traditional flavors in a modern setting. Western and International Food: Indulge in Italian pasta, American burgers, or Japanese sushi at popular restaurants like Pizza Marzano, Blue Frog, and Sushi Express. Cafés and Dessert Shops: Take a break and relax with a cup of coffee or a sweet treat at Starbucks, Häagen-Dazs, or one of the many cozy local cafés scattered throughout the square. Nightlife and Evening Entertainment Dream Times Square comes alive at night with vibrant nightlife options. Whether you're looking for a quiet evening drink or a lively night out, you'll find plenty of choices: Bars and Pubs: Sip on cocktails or local brews at stylish bars like Muse Bar or Vibes Lounge. These spots offer a relaxed atmosphere with live music and stunning views of the city. Clubs: Dance the night away at popular clubs like Soho Club, where you can enjoy live DJs, energetic dance floors, and a vibrant social scene. Rooftop Lounges: For a more laid-back experience, visit rooftop lounges that offer panoramic views of the Wuhan skyline and a serene environment to unwind with a drink. Practical Tips for Visitors Location: Wuhan Dream Times Square is located in the Hankou area of Wuhan, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. Transportation: The square is well-connected by public transport, including buses and the metro. The nearest metro station is Jianghan Road Station on Line 2. Opening Hours: Most shops and attractions are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Some restaurants and bars may stay open later into the night. Language: While many shop assistants and staff speak some English, it is helpful to know a few basic Mandarin phrases or use a translation app. Payment Methods: Major credit cards are accepted in most shops and restaurants. However, it's advisable to carry some cash or use mobile payment options like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
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With Clare Traveling Pandaland ... Tengchong, Yunnan Province: A Visitor's Guide Tengchong, located in the western part of Yunnan Province near the border with Myanmar, is a gem of natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and historical significance, it offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. How to Get There By Air: Tengchong Tuofeng Airport connects the city to major Chinese cities like Kunming and Chengdu. By Road: A scenic drive from Kunming takes around 8–10 hours by car or bus, passing through the mountainous Yunnan terrain. Top Attractions 1. Rehai Hot Springs Why Visit: Known as "Hot Sea," this geothermal area has over 80 hot spring pools, each with unique properties. Some are perfect for a relaxing soak, while others are too hot and are used for steaming food or traditional therapies. Don’t Miss: Try the therapeutic spa treatments or soak in an outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery. 2. Tengchong Volcanic Geothermal National Park Highlights: Home to dormant volcanic craters and lava fields, this park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. Activities: Climb up volcanoes like Dakongshan (Large Empty Mountain) for panoramic views, or explore the Lava Stone Forest. 3. Heshun Ancient Town Why Visit: A quaint town filled with cobbled streets, traditional Yunnan-style homes, and a rich history of overseas Chinese who returned home. Must-See: Visit the Heshun Library, one of the oldest private libraries in China, and explore the charming teahouses and ancestral halls. 4. Beihai Wetlands Overview: This serene area features floating meadows and diverse bird species. Activities: Take a boat ride through the wetlands or enjoy bird-watching during migratory seasons. 5. Yunfeng Mountain Why Visit: A sacred Taoist site with an ancient temple at its peak. What to Do: Hike or take a cable car up the mountain, then enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. 6. Dianmian Anti-Japanese War Memorial Historical Importance: Tengchong was a key battleground during WWII. This memorial honors the local and international soldiers who fought against Japanese forces. What to See: Artifacts, photographs, and the reconstructed battle sites. Cultural Highlights Traditional Crafts: Tengchong is famous for its jade carving. Visit local workshops to see artisans at work or purchase unique jade jewelry. Ethnic Diversity: Experience the culture of the Bai, Dai, and Lisu ethnic groups through their festivals, dances, and cuisines. Local Cuisine Signature Dishes: Guoqiao Mixian (Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles): A flavorful noodle soup with a variety of toppings. Bamboo Rice: Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes. Tengchong Fried Pork: Crispy pork stir-fried with local spices. Mushroom Hotpot: A must-try with Yunnan’s diverse range of wild mushrooms. Snacks: Don’t miss the fengmi baba (honey glutinous rice cake) or fried potato balls. Best Time to Visit Spring and Autumn (March–May, September–November): These seasons offer mild weather and clear skies, perfect for outdoor exploration. Winter (December–February): Ideal for enjoying the hot springs, though mornings and evenings can be chilly. Shopping Jade and Gemstones: Tengchong is renowned for its high-quality jade. Look for authentic pieces in certified stores. Local Handicrafts: Embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and bamboo products make great souvenirs. Tea: Yunnan is known for its Pu’er and black teas, widely available in Tengchong. Practical Tips Language: Mandarin is widely spoken, though some locals speak Yunnan dialects. Learn a few basic phrases for ease of communication. Currency: Bring enough cash, as rural areas may not accept cards or digital payments. Transportation: Rent a bicycle or use tuk-tuks to explore small towns like Heshun. Clothing: Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate between day and night, especially in the mountains. Day Trips Ruili: A bustling border town with vibrant markets and a mix of Chinese and Burmese cultures. Myanmar Border: Visit the border towns to experience the unique blend of Chinese and Burmese influences. Tengchong is a destination that beautifully combines natural wonders, cultural depth, and historical significance, offering something for every traveler.
Return to ShangHai 上海
Where the journey began ...

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