ShenZhen 深圳 – city of the future (documentary)

With Angelo Giuliano and Brian Berletic. They also discuss China's infrastructure and the development of XinJiang, Tibet, etc. ... In depth ... The West likes to trumpet 'individualism' - but is this really for the elite to divide the people, an excuse for the lack of infrastructure, and that if one is poor, it is your fault ? Compared to China's development and poverty alleviation, what has the West achieved over recent decades ? There are around 200,000 Chinese students in UK alone. China has 120 million outbound overseas tourists each year. There are 850,000 expats living and working in China. XiaoMi sells more smart phones than Apple. Etc. - Reality versus fake news. As for Western MSM, the more ridiculous the bias, the more obvious it becomes. In China, the people are family; in the West, the people are merely livestock.

With Dany Dev ... A Guide to China's High-Speed Rail Network China's high-speed rail (HSR) network is the largest and most advanced in the world, offering an efficient, modern, and fast way to travel across the country. Since its inception, the network has revolutionized travel within China, making it easier and quicker to connect cities and regions that were once separated by long distances. Overview of the High-Speed Rail Network Size and Scope: As of 2024, China’s HSR network spans over 40,000 kilometers (25,000 miles), connecting nearly all major cities across the country. The network is continuously expanding, with new lines being constructed each year. Speed: Trains on the high-speed network typically travel at speeds ranging from 250 to 350 kilometers per hour (155 to 217 miles per hour). Some of the fastest trains, such as those on the Beijing–Shanghai line, can reach speeds up to 350 km/h. Key Routes: Beijing-Shanghai: This flagship route is one of the busiest and most popular, covering a distance of 1,318 kilometers (819 miles) in about 4.5 hours. Beijing-Guangzhou: One of the longest HSR routes in the world, spanning 2,298 kilometers (1,428 miles) and taking around 8 hours. Shanghai-Hong Kong: Connects the financial hub of Shanghai with the vibrant city of Hong Kong, covering 1,200 kilometers (746 miles) in approximately 8 hours. Xi’an-Chengdu: A scenic route that links the historic city of Xi’an with Chengdu, famous for its pandas, covering 658 kilometers (409 miles) in about 3 hours. Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong: This line offers a rapid connection between the three major economic hubs, with a travel time of about 14 minutes from Shenzhen to Hong Kong. Features of China’s High-Speed Trains Train Classes: China’s high-speed trains are classified primarily into three categories based on speed and service: G-Class (Gaotie): The fastest trains, operating at speeds up to 350 km/h. These are typically used on major routes like Beijing-Shanghai. D-Class (Dongche): Slightly slower, operating at speeds up to 250-300 km/h. These trains are often used on shorter or less busy routes. C-Class: Suburban trains designed for short-distance travel, operating at speeds up to 200-250 km/h. Comfort and Amenities: Seating: HSR trains offer different classes of seating, including Second Class, First Class, and Business Class. Business Class offers the most luxurious experience, with wide reclining seats and more space. Facilities: Trains are equipped with modern amenities such as power outlets, Wi-Fi (on some trains), clean restrooms, and food and beverage services. Quiet carriages are also available for passengers who prefer a more serene environment. Punctuality: The HSR network is known for its punctuality, with trains typically departing and arriving on time. Key Stations and Infrastructure Major Hubs: Beijing South Railway Station: One of the largest and busiest HSR stations, serving as a key hub for northern and central China. Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station: A massive transportation hub that integrates rail, air, and metro services, making it one of the most important stations in eastern China. Guangzhou South Railway Station: A key gateway to southern China, connecting the region with major cities like Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Wuhan Railway Station: A central hub in the heart of China, crucial for connections between the east and west. Modern Design: The stations are often architectural marvels, designed to handle large volumes of passengers efficiently. Many stations are integrated with other forms of transport, including metro lines and airports, making transfers seamless. Benefits of Using the High-Speed Rail Network Speed and Efficiency: High-speed trains are often faster than flying when considering the time spent on security checks and travel to and from airports. For distances up to 1,200 kilometers (746 miles), trains are often the quickest option. Convenience: With frequent departures, extensive coverage, and easy booking options (including online and mobile apps), the HSR network is extremely convenient for both domestic and international travelers. Environmental Impact: HSR is a greener option compared to air travel, contributing less to carbon emissions per passenger kilometer. Challenges and Future Prospects Expansion to Rural Areas: While the HSR network covers most major cities, there are ongoing efforts to expand services to more rural and remote areas, ensuring broader access. International Links: China is also exploring international HSR connections, such as a proposed high-speed rail link to Moscow, Russia, which could enhance connectivity beyond China's borders. Technological Advances: China is investing in maglev (magnetic levitation) technology, which could further increase speeds to around 600 km/h (373 mph), positioning China at the forefront of global rail innovation. Tips for Travelers Booking Tickets: Tickets can be booked online, at stations, or through travel agencies. During peak travel times, such as Chinese New Year, it is advisable to book tickets well in advance. Travel Documents: Foreign travelers will need to present their passports when booking tickets and boarding trains. Luggage: There are generous luggage allowances on HSR trains, with space available for larger items in overhead compartments or at the ends of carriages. Language: While English signage is available in major stations, it is useful to have your destination written in Chinese to show to station staff if needed. Conclusion China’s high-speed rail network is a remarkable achievement in modern transportation, offering an efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of the country. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the HSR network provides an unparalleled travel experience that continues to set global standards.

GuangDong province ...

As a former treaty port, XiaMen has some colonial architecture. As part of China's Opening Up Policy in the early 1980s under Deng XiaoPing, XiaMen became one of the four original special economic zones opened to foreign investment and trade. XiaMen is well-regarded as a pleasant city. A film about a return to one's family's roots ...

With Qingyunji ... Fanjing Mountain, located in Tongren City, Guizhou Province, is a stunning natural and cultural landmark known for its unique landscapes, biodiversity, and spiritual significance. Here's a detailed overview of Fanjing Mountain: ### Location and Overview - **Location**: Fanjing Mountain is situated in the Wuling Mountain range in Tongren City, northeastern Guizhou Province, China. - **Elevation**: The highest peak of Fanjing Mountain reaches an elevation of 2,570 meters (8,430 feet) above sea level. - **UNESCO World Heritage Site**: In 2018, Fanjing Mountain was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich biodiversity and unique geological features. ### Natural Beauty and Biodiversity 1. **Unique Geological Formations**: Fanjing Mountain is characterized by its distinctive rock formations, including the Red Cloud Golden Summit (HongYun JinDing), Mushroom Stone, and Old Golden Summit (LaoJinDing). These formations offer breathtaking views and are popular among photographers and nature enthusiasts. 2. **Biodiversity Hotspot**: The mountain is a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous rare and endemic species. The area is particularly noted for its diverse plant life, including ancient ginkgo trees, fir forests, and a variety of medicinal herbs. 3. **Endangered Species**: Fanjing Mountain provides habitat for several endangered animal species, such as the Guizhou snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus brelichi), Chinese giant salamander, and various rare birds and insects. ### Spiritual and Cultural Significance 1. **Buddhist Heritage**: Fanjing Mountain is one of the sacred Buddhist mountains in China. It is considered a place of enlightenment and has a long history of Buddhist worship. The mountain is associated with Maitreya Buddha (the future Buddha). 2. **Temples and Monasteries**: There are several ancient temples and monasteries on the mountain, including the Shizhong Temple and the Cheng’en Temple. These religious sites attract pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a peaceful and spiritual retreat. 3. **Pilgrimage Destination**: The mountain's spiritual significance makes it a popular pilgrimage destination for Buddhists, especially during religious festivals and important Buddhist dates. ### Tourist Attractions and Activities 1. **Hiking and Trekking**: Fanjing Mountain offers numerous hiking and trekking trails that cater to various levels of difficulty. The trails provide stunning views of the natural scenery and access to the mountain’s unique rock formations and temples. 2. **Cable Cars**: For those who prefer a less strenuous visit, cable cars are available to take visitors up to the scenic areas and major viewpoints, offering a comfortable and scenic ride. 3. **Panoramic Views**: The Golden Summit, one of the most famous peaks, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The sight of the sunrise and sunset from this vantage point is particularly spectacular. 4. **Photography**: The unique landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and ancient temples make Fanjing Mountain a paradise for photographers. ### Conservation Efforts 1. **Protected Area**: Fanjing Mountain is part of a protected nature reserve, which helps to preserve its unique ecosystems and biodiversity. 2. **Sustainable Tourism**: Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices that minimize the impact on the natural environment and local communities while enhancing the visitor experience. ### Visitor Information 1. **Best Time to Visit**: The best time to visit Fanjing Mountain is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. 2. **Accessibility**: Fanjing Mountain can be accessed via Tongren, which is connected to major cities in China by train and air. From Tongren, visitors can take buses or taxis to the mountain’s entrance. 3. **Accommodation**: There are various accommodation options available, ranging from hotels in Tongren to guesthouses and inns near the mountain. ### Conclusion Fanjing Mountain in Guizhou is a place of extraordinary natural beauty and cultural significance. With its unique geological formations, rich biodiversity, and profound spiritual heritage, it offers a diverse and enriching experience for nature lovers, hikers, pilgrims, and tourists. The mountain’s combination of stunning landscapes, rare wildlife, and ancient temples makes it a must-visit destination in China.

Step back in time with Tim and Glo as they visit HóngCūn, in the historical HuiZhou region of southern AnHui province, near the south west slope of Mount HuangShan, plus the close-by MuKeng Bamboo Forest. The architecture and features of the approximately 150 residences that date from the Ming and Qing dynasties are among the best of their kind in China. One of the largest residences open to visitors, ChenZhi Hall, also contains a small museum. Together with nearby XiDi, the village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Scenes from the film 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' were filmed on location here.

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