The beautiful BeiHai Park 北海公园 in central BeiJing

Filmed in autumn 2010 ...


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Beijing, the capital city of China, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history, culture, and modernity. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect as a tourist in Beijing:

Historical Landmarks:
The Great Wall of China: One of the most iconic structures in the world, the Great Wall is easily accessible from Beijing. Mutianyu and Badaling sections are popular among tourists.

Forbidden City (Palace Museum): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast imperial palace complex was home to Chinese emperors for over 500 years. It houses numerous halls, courtyards, and historical artifacts.

Temple of Heaven: A masterpiece of Chinese architecture, this ancient temple complex served as a place of worship for emperors to pray for good harvests.

Summer Palace: A stunning ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces, the Summer Palace served as a retreat for emperors during the Qing dynasty.

Tiananmen Square: One of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is flanked by important landmarks such as the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

Cultural Sites:
Beijing Hutongs: Explore the narrow alleyways and traditional courtyard residences of Beijing's historic neighborhoods. You can take a rickshaw tour or simply wander around on foot.

Beijing Opera: Experience traditional Chinese opera performances at venues like the Liyuan Theater or the Chang'an Grand Theatre.

798 Art District: A hub of contemporary art and culture, this former industrial area is now home to numerous galleries, studios, and cafes.

Modern Attractions:
Olympic Park: Visit iconic structures such as the Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center) from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

CBD (Central Business District): Marvel at the futuristic skyline of Beijing's modern business district, which includes landmarks like the CCTV Headquarters and the China World Trade Center Tower III.

Culinary Delights:
Peking Duck: Indulge in Beijing's most famous dish, crispy roast duck served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce.

Street Food: Explore the city's vibrant street food scene and sample local delicacies like jianbing (savory crepes), lamb skewers, and dumplings.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. However, traffic can be heavy, so plan your travels accordingly.

Language: While English is not widely spoken, especially outside tourist areas, many signs and transportation announcements are in English. It's helpful to carry a translation app or a phrasebook.

Weather: Beijing experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. The best times to visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home and using both hands to pass or receive items.

Beijing offers a rich tapestry of experiences for tourists, blending ancient heritage with modern innovations. Whether you're fascinated by history, culture, or culinary delights, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

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MaPo DoFu – vegan / vegetarian recipe version
Or Tofu, as they say in HK / West. With chick peas, Shiitake mushrooms, chili oil and SiChuan peppercorns ... Chili oil ... Wil Yeung : Ingredients: 4 dried shiitake mushrooms 2 1/2 cups water 3 sticks green onion 1 cup canned chickpeas 1lb soft or medium firm tofu 2 pieces garlic 1 small piece ginger 1-2 tsp Sichuan peppercorns (or black peppercorns) 3 tbsp chili oil (https://youtu.be/DUDKIcYltZA) 1 tsp chili powder 2 tbsp doubanjiang (Chinese broad bean chili paste) 1 tsp cane sugar 1 tbsp soy sauce splash of rice vinegar 1 tbsp potato starch + 1 tbsp water Directions: 1. Place the dried shiitake mushrooms in a small saucepan and add in the water. Cover and bring to a boil 2. Chop the green onion. Roughly crush the chickpeas with a fork 3. When the water comes to a boil, simmer on medium for 10min 4. Drain out the tofu and carefully slice into cubes 5. Pour out and reserve the mushroom water. Cool down the mushrooms with cold water and squeeze out the liquid. Then, remove the stalks from the mushrooms and finely dice 6. Finely chop the garlic and ginger 7. Heat up a sauté pan to medium heat. Toast the peppercorns for 1min. Then, grind down the peppercorn in a pestle and mortar 8. Place the pan back onto medium heat. Add the chili oil 9. Sauté the chickpeas and mushrooms for 1-2min. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute 10. Add in the chili powder, crushed peppercorn, and the doubanjiang. Give the pan a good stir, then add in the reserved mushroom water 11. Add in the cane sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Give the pan a stir 12. Make a slurry by combining the potato starch with 1 tbsp water 13. Slowly pour in the slurry while stirring 14. Add in the tofu and gently stir around them 15. Plate and garnish with the chopped green onion Bonus film - vegan Dan Dan Mian (noodles) ... Ingredients: 4 broccolini 1 large piece garlic small piece ginger 2 sticks green onion 1/2 cup canned chickpeas small bunch canned bamboo 2 tbsp white sesame paste (or tahini) 3 tbsp soy sauce 3 tbsp chili oil (https://youtu.be/DUDKIcYltZA) 1 portion Chinese wheat noodles or udon 1/2 tbsp Sichuan peppercorn drizzle of grapeseed oil 1 tsp liquid smoke 2-3 tbsp crushed roasted peanuts 1 tbsp white sesame seeds Directions: 1. Chop the broccolini into bit sized pieces. Finely chop the garlic and ginger. Chop the green onion separating the white part from the green 2. Roughly mash the chickpeas in a small bowl with a fork. Slice the canned bamboo 3. Bring a small pot of water to boil for the noodles 4. Make the sauce by combining the sesame paste, 2 tbsp soy sauce, chili oil, and the green part of the green onions 5. Boil the noodles to package instructions 6. Heat up a sauté pan on medium heat and toast the peppercorns for 45sec 7. Crush the peppercorns in a pestle and mortar. Place the pan back on the heat and drizzle some grapeseed oil 8. Add the garlic, ginger, and green onion 9. Add the broccolini and sauté for 3-4min 10. Add the chickpeas, bamboo, and liquid smoke. Sauté for 4min 11. Add the crushed peppercorns and 1 tbsp soy sauce. Give it a good stir, then turn off the heat. When the noodles are cooked, strain out the water 12. Pour the prepped sauce into the serving bowl 13. Add the noodles into the sauce and top with the sautéed veggies 14. Top with the crushed peanuts and sesame seeds ORDER YOUR SIGNED VEGAN RAMEN COOKBOOK + GET YOUR FREE E-BOOK + TAKE YOUR VEGAN SUSHI MASTERCLASS HERE: https://www.yeungmancooking.com
‘Our first month in HaiNan 海南 (paradise)’ …
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给中国人的旅行建议  Travel advice for Chinese people
我们对中国人的建议是,至少今年不要去敌对国家旅行。 Includes, in particular : UK, US, Australia, Canada and Italy. Going to these places enriches countries that have openly declared China as a 'threat' ('slaves should always be slaves'); and it also puts your life in danger; so don't do it ! Demonization of Chinese people has been going for years and getting worse; and many ordinary people have been brain-washed by the propaganda. Forget the fairy tales, the West is not your friend, and, compared to China, a dump (esp. US and UK; see for yourself, if you must). The best thing you can do is to travel and study within China; amazing places and opportunities are all right here. Maybe one day we can all get along and it will be a win-win; but for now the West still clings to domination. So, don't be a slave and get stronger. If already committed, be careful ! Else reconsider - it is not at all what you imagine. In the past, BB was all for exchange, but as we start 2023, our advice is for Chinese people to not visit the West (dangerous); but we encourage Westerners to visit China (eye-opening).
A trip to LiJiang, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge, YunNan province – don’t miss it !
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50 places to visit in Hong Kong
Hong Kong: 20 Kid-Friendly Places to Visit Ocean Park Hong Kong (海洋公園 Hǎiyáng Gōngyuán): Amusement park with marine life exhibits, animal shows, and rides. Hong Kong Disneyland (香港迪士尼乐园 Xiānggǎng Díshìní Lèyuán): Magical theme park with Disney characters, rides, and attractions. The Peak Tram (山顶缆车 Shāndǐng Lǎnchē): Ride the iconic tram to Victoria Peak for panoramic views of the city. Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens (香港动植物公园 Xiānggǎng Dòngzhíwù Gōngyuán): Explore diverse plant and animal species in these gardens. Nan Lian Garden (南莲园池 Nán Lián Yuánchí): Tranquil Chinese garden with scenic ponds, pavilions, and bonsai trees. Hong Kong Space Museum (香港太空馆 Xiānggǎng Tàikōng Guǎn): Discover space science and astronomy through interactive exhibits. Hong Kong Science Museum (香港科学馆 Xiānggǎng Kēxué Guǎn): Interactive science exhibits and an Omnimax theater. Hong Kong Museum of History (香港历史博物馆 Xiānggǎng Lìshǐ Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's history, culture, and heritage. Noah's Ark Hong Kong (香港挪亚方舟公园 Xiānggǎng Nuóyà Fāngzhōu Gōngyuán): Themed attraction with a replica of Noah's Ark and educational exhibits. Lamma Island (南丫岛 Nányā Dǎo): Explore beaches, hiking trails, and seafood restaurants on this tranquil island. Wetland Park (香港湿地公园 Xiānggǎng Shīdì Gōngyuán): Nature reserve with boardwalks, birdwatching, and educational exhibits. Trick Eye Museum (幻境艺术馆 Huàn Jìng Yìshù Guǎn): Interactive art museum with optical illusions and 3D exhibits. Hong Kong Maritime Museum (香港海事博物馆 Xiānggǎng Hǎishì Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's maritime heritage and seafaring history. Discovery Bay (愉景湾 Yújǐng Wān): Relaxing beach area with water sports, dining, and shopping. Butterfly Beach (蝴蝶湾 Húdié Wān): Picturesque beach with clear water and gentle waves. Hong Kong Toy Museum (香港玩具博物馆 Xiānggǎng Wánjù Bówùguǎn): Vintage and collectible toys from different eras. Lantau Island (大屿山 Dàyǔ Shān): Giant Buddha statue, Ngong Ping 360 cable car, and hiking trails. Kowloon Park (九龙公园 Jiǔlóng Gōngyuán): Green space with playgrounds, aviaries, and a swimming pool. Ma Wan Park (馬灣公園 Mǎwān Gōngyuán): Theme park with attractions like the Ma Wan Tung Wan Beach. Lion Rock Park (狮子山公园 Shīzǐ Shān Gōngyuán): Hiking trails with views of the city skyline and Lion Rock. Hong Kong: 30 More Places to Visit Victoria Harbour (维多利亚港 Wéiduōlìyà Gǎng): Iconic harbor with stunning views, ferries, and the Symphony of Lights. Temple Street Night Market (庙街夜市 Miào Jiē Yèshì): Bustling market with street food, souvenirs, and fortune tellers. Stanley Market (赤柱市集 Chìzhù Shìjí): Waterfront market with clothing, accessories, and handicrafts. Peak Circle Walk (山顶环道 Shāndǐng Huán Dào): Scenic walking trail around Victoria Peak with panoramic views. Lamma Island Family Walk (南丫岛家庭步行径 Nányā Dǎo Jiātíng Bùxíng Jìng): Easy coastal walk with sea views and seafood restaurants. Nan Lian Garden (南莲园池 Nán Lián Yuánchí): Tranquil Chinese garden with scenic ponds, pavilions, and bonsai trees. Lantau Trail (大屿山径 Dàyǔ Shān Jìng): Hiking trail covering Lantau Island's scenic landscapes and beaches. Tai O Fishing Village (大澳渔村 Dà'ào Yúcūn): Traditional fishing village with stilt houses and seafood delicacies. Nan Lian Garden (南莲园池 Nán Lián Yuánchí): Tranquil Chinese garden with scenic ponds, pavilions, and bonsai trees. Chi Lin Nunnery (志蓮淨苑 Zhìlián Jìngyuàn): Buddhist monastery with elegant architecture and tranquil gardens. Man Mo Temple (文武廟 Mùi Móu): Historic temple dedicated to the gods of literature and martial arts. Ngong Ping Village (昂坪村 Ángpíng Cūn): Cultural village near the Tian Tan Buddha with shops and restaurants. Sai Kung Town (西贡镇 Xīgòng Zhèn): Fishing town with seafood restaurants, hiking trails, and beaches. Hong Kong Heritage Museum (香港文化博物馆 Xiānggǎng Wénhuà Bówùguǎn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's art, culture, and history. PMQ (元创方 Yuán Chuàng Fāng): Creative hub with shops, studios, and exhibitions in a historic building. Golden Bauhinia Square (金紫荆广场 Jīn Zǐjīng Guǎngchǎng): Landmark square with a giant bauhinia statue and harbor views. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade (尖沙咀海滨长廊 Jiānshāzuǐ Hǎibīn Chángláng): Waterfront promenade with views of Victoria Harbour and the skyline. Repulse Bay (浅水湾 Qiǎnshuǐ Wān): Scenic beach with golden sands, clear water, and beachside dining. Mai Po Nature Reserve (米埔自然保护区 Mǐbù Zìrán Bǎohùqū): Wetlands with birdwatching hides, mangroves, and wildlife. Hong Kong Museum of Art (香港艺术馆 Xiānggǎng Yìshù Guǎn): Exhibits on Chinese and international art in a modern building. Star Ferry (天星小轮 Tiānxīng Xiǎolún): Iconic ferry service between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Lugard Road Lookout (盧吉道 Lu Jídào): Scenic trail with views of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline. Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre (香港文物探知中心 Xiānggǎng Wénwù Tànzhī Zhōngxīn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's archaeology, heritage, and history. Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum (孙中山纪念馆 Sūn Zhōngshān Jìniànguǎn): Museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen. Hong Kong Tramways (香港电车 Xiānggǎng Diànchē): Historic tram system running along Hong Kong Island's north coast. Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre (香港文物探知中心 Xiānggǎng Wénwù Tànzhī Zhōngxīn): Exhibits on Hong Kong's archaeology, heritage, and history. Lung Fu Shan Country Park (龙虎山郊野公园 Lónghǔ Shān Jiāoyě Gōngyuán): Hiking trails and scenic views near Victoria Peak. Hong Kong Park (香港公园 Xiānggǎng Gōngyuán): Urban park with aviaries, a greenhouse, and tranquil gardens. Dragon's Back Trail (龙脊径 Lóngjǐ Jìng): Scenic hiking trail with panoramic views of the coastline and islands.
How to eat Hot Pot 火锅 HuǒGuō, plus ingredients – in both Chinese script and pinyin
Hot pot dining is a communal and interactive meal enjoyed by many in China and beyond. A hot pot meal consists of a simmering broth into which fresh ingredients are cooked, then dipped into a sauce before eating, bit by bit. Meats are thinly sliced and can cook in just 20 seconds (be sure to cook only one slice at a time). One can have tomatoes or cucumber as a side dish to eat raw. Typically, the dipping sauce is sesame sprinkled with chopped spring onions though one add add various condiments such as chopped garlic. Spicy (Hot) Broth (麻辣汤 - Má là tāng): This broth is typically made with a combination of chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and various spices. It's known for its fiery and numbing flavor, characteristic of Sichuan cuisine. It adds a spicy kick to the ingredients cooked in the hot pot, offering a tingling sensation on the palate. Non-Spicy (Not Hot) Broth (清汤 - Qīng tāng): This broth is a milder option compared to the spicy broth. It's often made with a clear or lightly flavored base, such as chicken, pork, or vegetable broth. It allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through without the overpowering heat of spices. It's a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle and refreshing taste. Two-in-One (Yuan Yang) Broth (鸳鸯锅 - Yuān yāng guō): The two-in-one broth offers the best of both worlds by dividing the hot pot into two sections, allowing diners to enjoy both spicy and non-spicy options simultaneously. One side typically contains the spicy broth, while the other side contains the non-spicy broth. It caters to groups with varying preferences, providing a versatile dining experience where everyone can find something they enjoy. Meat: * Beef: Niú Ròu (牛肉) * Lamb: Yáng Ròu (羊肉) * Chicken: Jī Ròu (鸡肉) Pork: Zhū Ròu (猪肉) Sausages: Xiāng Cháng (香肠) * Fish / Shrimp/Prawn Balls: Yú Qiú / Xiā Qiú (鱼球 / 虾球) Seafood: - Shrimp: Xiā (虾) - Fish: Yú (鱼) - Shellfish: Háimǔ (海蜇) - Mussels: Gēn Mǔli (蚌肉) - Squid: Yóu Yú (鱿鱼) Vegetables: * Coriander: Xīng Cài (香菜) Potato slices: TǔDòu (土豆) Tomatoes: Fān Qié (番茄) Cucumber: HuángGuā (黄瓜) Bean Sprouts: Dà Suàn (大蒜) Lotus Root: Lián'ǒu (莲藕) Bamboo Shoots: Zhú Sǔn (竹笋) Cabbage: Xīng Cài (白菜) Spinach: Bō Cài (菠菜) Mushrooms: - * Enoki Mushroom (long thin white): Jīn Zhēngū (金针菇) - * Shiitake Mushroom: Xiāng Gū (香菇) - Oyster Mushroom: Mù Ěr (木耳) - Wood Ear Mushroom: Xīng'ěr (杏鲍菇) - King Oyster Mushroom: Xìng Bàogū (杏鲍菇) Tofu: * Iced Tofu: Dòng Dòufu (冻豆腐) * Tofu Skin: Dòu Pí (豆皮) Firm Tofu: Làn Dòufu (蓝豆腐) Silken Tofu: Dòufu Rǔ (豆腐乳) Bean Curd Sheets: Dòu Piàn (豆片) Noodles: * Clear (bean) Noodles: Tāng Fěn (汤粉) Rice Noodles: Mǐ Fěn (米粉) Udon Noodles: Wǔdūn Miàn (乌冬面) Other Ingredients: * Dumplings: JiǎoZi (饺子) Eggs: Jī Dàn (鸡蛋) Fried Dough Sticks: Yóu Tiáo (油条) Sauce Bowl: * Sesame Sauce: Zhī Málà Jiàng (芝麻麻辣酱) Peanut Sauce: Huā Shēng Jiàng (花生酱) Condiments one can add to sauce bowl: * Scallions (chopped spring onions): Cōng Jiàng Yóu (葱酱油) Soy Sauce: Jiàng Yóu (酱油) Vinegar: Cù (醋) Chili Sauce: Làjiāo Jiàng (辣椒酱) Garlic Sauce: Sào Jiàng (臊酱) Sesame Oil: Zhī Yóu (芝麻油) Well known hot pot chains include XiaoBu XiaoBu and HaiDiLao but one can also enjoy many one-off independent restaurants.
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