The awesome Wanda Mall, ShenZhen

Filmed May 2012.

Awesome soundscapes by the wonderful Michel Pepe - let your heart sail through the stars ...

The Hakka Tulou are unique, fortress-like buildings located in the mountainous areas of Fujian Province. These large, circular or rectangular earthen structures were built by the Hakka people, an ethnic group known for their migratory history. The Tulou are notable for their communal living spaces, defensive features, and remarkable architectural design. Who are the Hakka People? The Hakka are a subgroup of the Han Chinese, known for their migratory history and resilience. Originating from northern China, the Hakka migrated southwards over several centuries, settling in the mountainous regions of southern China. The name "Hakka" means "guest people," reflecting their history of migration and settlement in new areas. Hakka culture places a strong emphasis on education, family unity, and community cooperation. Despite facing hardships and displacement, the Hakka have maintained their unique cultural identity and traditions. Historical and Cultural Background Origins and History The construction of Tulou began during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and continued through the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) Dynasties. These buildings were designed to provide protection and communal living for large families or clans, often housing up to 80 families in a single Tulou. Cultural Significance The Tulou reflect the Hakka people's need for security and their communal lifestyle. The buildings are designed to be self-sufficient, with living quarters, storage areas, and defensive structures all incorporated into the design. The Hakka culture values family unity, and the Tulou are a physical manifestation of this principle. Architectural Features Design and Structure Tulou are typically large, multi-storied structures built with thick earthen walls that provide insulation and protection. The outer walls are made from rammed earth, mixed with stone, bamboo, and wood, making them extremely durable. The interiors are organized around a central courtyard, with rooms for living, storage, and communal activities. Defensive Capabilities The design of the Tulou includes defensive features such as narrow windows and a single, reinforced entrance. These elements were intended to protect the inhabitants from bandits and wild animals. The circular shape of many Tulou also allows for effective communication and defense within the building. Communal and Social Aspects Living Arrangements The Tulou were built to house entire clans, with each family having its own designated area within the structure. The central courtyard served as a communal space for social activities, celebrations, and meetings. This layout fostered a strong sense of community and cooperation among the inhabitants. Self-Sufficiency The Tulou were designed to be self-sufficient, with areas designated for food storage, livestock, and agricultural activities. This self-sufficiency was essential, as the Tulou were often located in remote, mountainous areas where resources needed to be carefully managed. UNESCO World Heritage Status Recognition In 2008, several Fujian Tulou were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This recognition highlights their architectural uniqueness, cultural significance, and historical importance. The Tulou are considered outstanding examples of communal living and defensive architecture. Conservation Efforts Efforts to preserve the Tulou focus on maintaining the traditional construction techniques and protecting the buildings from modern threats such as tourism pressure and environmental degradation. These efforts aim to ensure that the Tulou remain a living part of Hakka culture. Conclusion The Hakka Tulou are extraordinary structures that embody the resilience, ingenuity, and communal spirit of the Hakka people. These architectural marvels continue to stand as a testament to the Hakka's ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments. As both historical treasures and vibrant communities, the Tulou attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life. With How To Do? In China ...

Plus a little of the canola fields of the HongHe HaNi Autonomous Prefecture in southern YunNan ...

With Jean Holy Smithereens ...

Bonus film - two hours of pronunciation practice ...

Top 30 places to visit in and around HangZhou : West Lake (西湖, Xī Hú): Explore the scenic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with boat rides and leisurely strolls around the lake. Lingyin Temple (灵隐寺, Língyǐn Sì): Visit one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China, known for its ancient architecture and serene surroundings. Qinghefang Ancient Street (清河坊古街, Qīnghéfāng Gǔjiē): Wander through this historic street lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and street food vendors. Longjing Tea Plantation (龙井茶园, Lóngjǐng Cháyuán): Experience tea culture and enjoy a scenic hike through the picturesque tea fields. Hefang Street (河坊街, Héfāng Jiē): Discover a lively pedestrian street filled with shops selling local crafts, snacks, and souvenirs. China National Tea Museum (中国茶叶博物馆, Zhōngguó Cháyè Bówùguǎn): Learn about the history and culture of tea in China through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Xixi Wetland Park (西溪湿地, Xīxī Shīdì): Enjoy nature walks, boat rides, and birdwatching in this scenic wetland park. Huqingyu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum (胡庆余堂药店博物馆, Húqìngyútáng Yàodiàn Bówùguǎn): Explore the history of traditional Chinese medicine and herbal remedies. Song Dynasty Town (宋城, Sòng Chéng): Step back in time to the Song Dynasty era and experience traditional architecture, performances, and cultural activities. National Silk Museum (中国丝绸博物馆, Zhōngguó Sīchóu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the ancient art of silk production and admire exquisite silk artifacts. Hangzhou Zoo (杭州动物园, Hángzhōu Dòngwùyuán): Spend a day with the family exploring the diverse animal exhibits and enjoying fun activities. Thousand Island Lake (千岛湖, Qiāndǎo Hú): Take a scenic boat cruise on this vast reservoir surrounded by lush green mountains. Six Harmonies Pagoda (六和塔, Liùhé Tǎ): Climb to the top of this ancient pagoda for panoramic views of the Qiantang River and surrounding landscapes. China Academy of Art (中国美术学院, Zhōngguó Měishù Xuéyuàn): Visit the campus and galleries of one of China's leading art institutions. Hangzhou Botanical Garden (杭州植物园, Hángzhōu Zhíwùyuán): Explore the diverse plant collections and scenic landscapes of this botanical garden. Grand Canal (大运河, Dà Yùnhé): Take a boat tour or stroll along the historic Grand Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over 1,000 years. China National Silk Museum (中国丝绸博物馆, Zhōngguó Sīchóu Bówùguǎn): Learn about the ancient art of silk production and admire exquisite silk artifacts. Hangzhou Paradise (杭州乐园, Hángzhōu Lèyuán): Have a thrilling day of fun and excitement with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Xiling Seal Engravers Society (西泠印社, Xī Líng Yìn Shè): Discover the art of seal engraving and calligraphy at this historic society and museum. Hangzhou Safari Park (杭州野生动物世界, Hángzhōu Yěshēng Dòngwù Shìjiè): Get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the world in this sprawling safari park. Hangzhou Wetland Science Museum (杭州湿地科技馆, Hángzhōu Shīdì Kējìguǎn): Learn about wetland ecosystems and environmental conservation through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

With Stef Hoffer : Here’s a brief overview of some of the places visited in this video. After a short introduction, we begin this journey near the spectacular rice terraces of Yuanyang, before moving on to the captivating Buddhist temples of Dali. Via the peculiar Shilin Stone Forest and the ‘Rainbow Mountains’ of Zhangye, we arrive in Guangzhou (Canton), one of China’s largest cities. After the Yellow Mountains national park, and the intriguing ‘tulou’ buildings, we visit the Great Wall and the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest such statue in the world. After flying through the ice and snow city of Harbin, where people enjoy a unique Winter event, we take a brief look at the imposing Yellow River, Hukou waterfall, Zhengzhou and Changsha cities, before stopping at the breathtaking Jiuzhaigou national park, filled with crystal clear blue lakes. The next place is the countryside in between rural Yangshuo and urban Guilin, easily one of the most popular tourist destinations in China, where the Li river meanders through bizarre karst scenery. For more diversity, we travel to Dunhuang to visit the arid Gobi Desert. We also have a look at a solar panel field and windmill park, before we fly over some heavy industry, including a steel factory, coal mine, oil refinery, concrete dam, shipyard, an oil rig, and a massive bridge. Hong Kong is our next destinations, before moving on to several places along the Yangtze river (or its distributaries), including Tiger Leaping Gorge, Chongqing, and Wuhan. On Hainan island we see the ‘tropical’ side of China, while in Xiahe and Tibet we visit the country’s highlands. From the frozen cities of Jilin and Xining we arrive in Qingdao, with its German colonial architecture and coastal vibe. In Macau we fly over the famous casinos, but also visit the Portuguese quarters, and after the rice fields of Longji (Dragon’s Backbone), we increase our altitude in the Yulong national park. After Hangzhou and Shenyang, we briefly look at one of China’s many ‘ghost towns’ and construction sites, before flying on to the surreal pillars of Zhangjiajie, and the (perhaps) equally stunning skyline of Shanghai. After showing the modern part of the city and the port (harbor), we also explore some of the disappearing neighborhoods, destroyed factories, and the strange looking ‘bicycle graveyard’. From the freezing ‘Xuexiang’ village and walled city of Pingyao we continue our journey in Xian, Shenzhen, Suzhou, and Changzhou. Finally, we take a look at the mesmerizing Yuanmou ‘Earth Forest’, Kunming city, and Lijiang, one of China’s most famous historic towns. Video chapters / timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 3:29 Yuangyang rice terraces 4:59 Chengkan 5:17 Dali 6:08 Shilin stone forest 6:50 Zhangye national park 7:55 Guangzhou 10:22 Huangshan national park 11:24 Fujian ‘tulou’ 12:03 The Great Wall 12:33 Leshan 12:55 Harbin 15:00 Yellow River 15:28 Hukou waterfall 15:50 Zhengzhou 16:20 Changsha 16:31 Jiuzhaigou national park 17:26 Yangshuo 20:25 Dunhuang 21:42 Qinghuangdao 21:58 Guazhou 22:47 Benxi, Fushun, Guangzhou, Hainan 24:19 Danjiangkou 25:12 Aizhai bridge 25:39 Hong Kong 29:19 Tiger Leaping Gorge 29:44 Chonqging 31:45 Yangtze River 33:03 Wuhan 35:41 Hainan island 38:02 Xiahe 38:51 Tibet 40:26 Jilin 40:44 Xining 41:25 Linxia 41:51 Qingdao 48:22 Macau 49:34 Longji rice terraces 49:59 Shexian 50:21 Yulong national park 51:42 Hangzhou 53:06 Shenyang 53:32 Shenfu ‘ghost town’ 54:26 Chengdu 54:46 Zhangjiajie national park 56:12 Shanghai 1:04:26 Xuexiang 1:05:49 Pingyao 1:06:28 Shenzhen 1:06:54 Xian 1:07:12 Suzhou 1:10:05 Changzhou 1:10:44 Yuangmou Earth forest 1:11:23 Kunming 1:12:43 Lijiang

With the Food Ranger, Trevor James, featuring ChuChu ...