ShenZhen 深圳 and surrounding area from the air

With MisterVaughn ... Welcome to Yuan Dadu City Wall Park Discover the ancient walls of Beijing About Yuan Dadu City Wall Park Yuan Dadu City Wall Park is a historical park located in the northern part of Beijing, encompassing the remnants of the city walls from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). The park preserves a section of the ancient city walls and provides visitors with a glimpse into the rich history of Beijing. The park stretches for several kilometers and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax, exercise, and learn about the city's past. Main Attractions Ancient City Walls The park features well-preserved sections of the ancient Yuan Dynasty city walls. These walls, originally built to protect the capital, now stand as a testament to the architectural prowess and historical significance of the Yuan Dynasty. City Wall Relics Museum Located within the park, the City Wall Relics Museum offers an in-depth look at the history of the Yuan Dadu city walls. The museum displays artifacts, historical documents, and detailed models of the ancient city. Scenic Walkways The park features beautifully landscaped walkways that run alongside the ancient walls. These walkways are perfect for leisurely strolls and provide visitors with picturesque views of the park's greenery and historical structures. Peony Garden The Peony Garden, located in the park, is a must-visit during the blooming season in spring. The garden showcases a stunning variety of peonies and is a popular spot for photography and relaxation. Activities Morning Exercises Yuan Dadu City Wall Park is a popular spot for locals to perform morning exercises such as tai chi, dancing, and jogging. Visitors can join in or simply enjoy watching these traditional Chinese activities. Photography The park offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially around the ancient city walls and gardens. Capture the historical essence and natural beauty of the park in your photos. Seasonal Festivals Yuan Dadu City Wall Park hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Peony Festival in spring and traditional Chinese cultural performances. These events provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and history. Transport Yuan Dadu City Wall Park is easily accessible from various parts of Beijing. Here are some ways to get there: By Subway: Take Line 10 to Jiandemen Station, then walk north for about 10 minutes to reach the park. By Bus: Multiple bus routes stop near Yuan Dadu City Wall Park, including routes 27, 55, and 305. Get off at the Dadu Ruins Park stop. By Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you are traveling with a group or have heavy luggage. Just ask the driver to take you to Yuan Dadu City Wall Park (元大都城垣遗址公园).

DiSanXian (Potato, Pepper, and Aubergine) Introduction DiSanXian (地三鲜) is a popular Chinese dish from the northeastern region of China. The name "DiSanXian" translates to "Three Earthly Treasures," referring to the main ingredients: potatoes, peppers, and aubergines (eggplants). This dish is loved for its rich flavors and satisfying texture, making it a perfect vegan option for those looking to enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine. Ingredients 2 large potatoes 2 medium aubergines (eggplants) 1 green bell pepper 1 red bell pepper 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon vinegar 1 teaspoon sugar Salt to taste Cooking oil Chopped spring onions (optional, for garnish) Preparation DiSanXian is a straightforward dish to prepare, requiring basic cooking techniques and common ingredients. Here's how to make it: Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices or wedges. Cut the aubergines into bite-sized pieces. Remove the seeds from the bell peppers and cut them into strips. Step 2: Fry the Vegetables Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the potato slices until they are golden and crispy, then remove and set aside. Next, fry the aubergine pieces until they are tender and slightly browned, then remove and set aside. Finally, fry the bell pepper strips for a few minutes until they are slightly softened. Step 3: Combine and Season In the same wok or pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the fried potatoes, aubergines, and bell peppers back into the pan. Stir in the soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated with the sauce and heated through. Step 4: Serve Transfer the DiSanXian to a serving plate and garnish with chopped spring onions, if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Tips and Variations Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier version, add some chopped chili peppers or a pinch of chili flakes to the dish. Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, onions, or zucchini for more variety and nutrition. Low-Oil Option: For a healthier version, you can roast the vegetables instead of frying them. Toss them with a little oil and roast in the oven until tender and lightly browned. Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces, such as adding a touch of hoisin sauce for sweetness or using black bean sauce for a deeper flavor. Nutritional Information DiSanXian is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for a typical serving of DiSanXian: Calories: 250-300 kcal Protein: 4-6 grams Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams Fat: 12-15 grams Fiber: 5-7 grams Vitamins and Minerals: High in Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants from the vegetables. This makes DiSanXian a well-rounded dish that provides energy, essential nutrients, and dietary fiber. Where to Find DiSanXian in China DiSanXian is a popular dish in northeastern China but can be found in many Chinese restaurants throughout the country. Look for restaurants that specialize in northeastern Chinese cuisine or those that offer a wide range of vegetable dishes. You can also find DiSanXian in some vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Conclusion DiSanXian is a delicious and versatile vegan dish that highlights the simple yet rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new, DiSanXian is sure to please your taste buds with its satisfying combination of potatoes, peppers, and aubergines. Enjoy this delightful dish at home or seek it out during your travels in China for an authentic culinary experience.

With Ben Norton ...

Beijing, indeed China, is an embrace of both ancient and modern, diverse yet cohesive, humanity in harmony with nature - in short, it is : ☯ Bonus film - DongCheng district, the heart of Beijing ...

With Lulu's Daily In China ... Humble Administrator's Garden Visitor Guide Overview The Humble Administrator's Garden, located in SuZhou, JiangSu province, is one of the most famous classical gardens in China. Built in the early 16th century during the Ming Dynasty, this garden is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design, featuring beautiful pavilions, serene ponds, lush greenery, and exquisite rock formations. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Chinese garden art. History The garden was originally created by Wang XianChen, a retired government official, who sought to design a peaceful retreat for himself. Over the centuries, the garden changed hands multiple times, undergoing various renovations and expansions. Despite these changes, the garden has retained its original layout and classical elements, reflecting the aesthetics and philosophical principles of traditional Chinese gardens. Main Attractions Central Garden The Central Garden is the heart of the Humble Administrator's Garden, featuring a large pond surrounded by lush plants, winding paths, and elegant pavilions. Key highlights include: Lotus Pavilion: A beautiful structure overlooking the pond, offering a tranquil spot to enjoy the view of blooming lotus flowers in summer. Hall of Distant Fragrance: Named after the lotus flowers whose fragrance can be smelled from afar, this hall is one of the garden's main buildings, known for its elegant design. Eastern Garden The Eastern Garden features a series of smaller ponds, rockeries, and pavilions, creating a more intimate and secluded atmosphere. Notable features include: Small Flying Rainbow Bridge: A charming stone bridge that arches gracefully over a small pond. Hall of 36 Mandarin Ducks: Named after the mandarin ducks often seen in Chinese art, this hall offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Western Garden The Western Garden is characterized by its open spaces and carefully arranged rockeries and plantings. Highlights include: Hall of the Thirty-Six Mandarin Ducks: Featuring beautiful carvings and a serene ambiance. GuanYun Peak: A striking rock formation representing a mountain peak, showcasing the garden's sophisticated use of stones. Architecture and Design The Humble Administrator's Garden exemplifies the principles of traditional Chinese garden design, which seeks to create harmony between nature and human-made structures. The garden's architecture and layout incorporate the following elements: Water Features: Ponds and streams are central to the garden's design, reflecting the sky and surrounding plants, and adding a sense of tranquility. Rockeries: Carefully arranged rocks and rock formations symbolize mountains and add a dynamic visual element to the landscape. Pavilions and Halls: These structures provide spaces for relaxation and contemplation, offering various perspectives of the garden. Plantings: A diverse array of plants, including bamboo, lotus, and seasonal flowers, enhance the garden's beauty and symbolize different virtues and qualities. Visiting Tips Best Time to Visit: The garden is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer are particularly lovely when flowers are in bloom. Autumn offers stunning foliage, and winter provides a peaceful, serene atmosphere. Opening Hours: The garden is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (hours may vary seasonally). Getting There: The garden is located in the heart of SuZhou and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. The nearest metro station is Lindun Road Station (Line 1). Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the garden's history, architecture, and cultural significance. Photography: The garden offers countless photo opportunities. Be sure to bring your camera and take your time capturing the beauty of the landscape. Respect the Environment: Help preserve the garden by not picking flowers, climbing on rocks, or littering. Respect the tranquility of the space and other visitors.

With MisterVaughn ... ChaoYang Park (Sun Park) visitor guide Overview ChaoYang Park, also known as Sun Park, is one of Beijing's largest and most popular parks. Located in the bustling ChaoYang District, this expansive green space offers a perfect retreat for both locals and tourists. The park features beautiful landscapes, recreational facilities, cultural attractions, and numerous activities for visitors of all ages. History ChaoYang Park was opened to the public in 1984 and has since become a significant recreational area in Beijing. The park's development aimed to provide a green oasis in the city and offer a variety of leisure activities. Over the years, it has hosted numerous cultural and sporting events, further enhancing its popularity and importance. Main Attractions Sunken Garden The Sunken Garden is a beautifully landscaped area featuring a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees. This tranquil spot is perfect for leisurely walks and offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The garden is especially stunning during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom. Lake and Boat Rides The park's central lake is a popular spot for boating and water activities. Visitors can rent paddle boats, rowboats, and even electric boats to explore the serene waters. The lake is surrounded by scenic walking paths and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. ChaoYang Theater ChaoYang Theater is famous for its traditional Chinese acrobatic performances. The theater offers daily shows that showcase the incredible skills and talents of Chinese acrobats. These performances are a must-see for visitors interested in Chinese culture and entertainment. Children's Amusement Park The children's amusement park within ChaoYang Park features a variety of rides and attractions designed for younger visitors. From carousels to roller coasters, the amusement park offers plenty of fun and excitement for kids and families. Fitness and Sports Facilities ChaoYang Park offers numerous sports facilities, including tennis courts, basketball courts, and a running track. There are also several outdoor fitness areas with exercise equipment. These facilities are popular among fitness enthusiasts and provide a great way to stay active while enjoying the park's beautiful surroundings. Culture and Traditions ChaoYang Park is a hub of cultural activities and events. Throughout the year, the park hosts various festivals, exhibitions, and performances that celebrate Chinese culture and traditions. Visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and art, as well as modern cultural events. Activities and Experiences Boating Rent a boat and enjoy a relaxing ride on the park's central lake. Boating is a popular activity in ChaoYang Park, offering a peaceful way to take in the scenic views and enjoy the fresh air. Picnicking The park's expansive lawns and shaded areas make it an ideal spot for picnicking. Visitors can bring their own food or purchase snacks from the park's vendors and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Walking and Jogging ChaoYang Park features numerous walking and jogging paths that wind through its diverse landscapes. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a vigorous jog, the park offers a variety of routes to explore. Photography The park's beautiful landscapes, vibrant flowers, and serene lake make it a perfect destination for photography enthusiasts. Capture the natural beauty and the lively atmosphere of ChaoYang Park through your lens. Attending Events Check the park's event calendar for upcoming cultural events, festivals, and performances. Attending these events is a great way to experience local culture and enjoy unique entertainment. Accommodation While there are no accommodations within ChaoYang Park itself, the park is located in a bustling district with numerous hotels and guesthouses nearby. Visitors can choose from a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit ChaoYang Park is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the park is at its most beautiful. Getting There: ChaoYang Park is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest subway station is Tuanjiehu Station on Line 10. The park is also well-served by several bus routes. Opening Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Entrance Fees: There is a nominal entrance fee for the park. Additional fees may apply for specific attractions and activities, such as boat rentals and amusement park rides. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and outdoor activities. The park is quite large, and you'll likely spend several hours exploring. Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially during the summer months. There are also several vendors and kiosks throughout the park where you can purchase drinks and snacks. Respect the Environment: Help keep the park clean by disposing of litter properly and respecting the natural surroundings. Avoid disturbing wildlife and follow park regulations.

With DianXi XiaoGe ...

With Brian Berletic and Angelo Giuliano ...