The ShangHai 上海 World Expo, with Dennis Callan

With Travel In China ... Visitor Guide to LiKeng Ancient Town, JiangXi Province Overview LiKeng Ancient Town, located in Wuyuan County of JiangXi Province, is a picturesque village known for its well-preserved architecture, traditional culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Often referred to as the "most beautiful village in China," LiKeng offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and rural life. Getting There By Air: The nearest airport is Jingdezhen Luojia Airport (JDZ), located about 90 kilometers from LiKeng. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Wuyuan County and then a local bus or taxi to LiKeng. By Train: Wuyuan Railway Station is the closest train station, with connections to major cities like ShangHai, HangZhou, and NanChang. From the station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to LiKeng. By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities to Wuyuan County. From Wuyuan County, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach LiKeng. Getting Around Walking: The best way to explore LiKeng is on foot. The village is small and pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to leisurely stroll through its charming streets. Biking: Renting a bicycle is a popular option for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions. Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from nearby towns and attractions. Main Attractions Ancient Architecture LiKeng is renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. The traditional wooden houses, stone bridges, and narrow lanes reflect the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Li Family Ancestral Hall The Li Family Ancestral Hall is a significant historical site in LiKeng. It showcases intricate wood carvings, beautiful murals, and traditional Chinese architectural design. Stone Arch Bridges LiKeng is dotted with ancient stone arch bridges that add to its scenic charm. These bridges, with their elegant curves and historical significance, are perfect for photography and leisurely walks. Surrounding Countryside The countryside around LiKeng is known for its lush greenery, terraced fields, and beautiful tea plantations. Exploring the rural landscape offers a peaceful and picturesque experience. Local Cuisine LiKeng's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Here are some must-try dishes: Wuyuan Steamed Fish: Fresh fish from the local rivers, steamed with a light seasoning to retain its natural flavors. Rice Wine Chicken: Chicken cooked with local rice wine, creating a tender and flavorful dish. Wild Vegetables: Various wild vegetables picked from the surrounding countryside, often stir-fried or used in soups. Wuyuan Green Tea: Enjoy a cup of locally-produced green tea, known for its fresh taste and health benefits. Shopping Local Handicrafts: LiKeng is known for its traditional handicrafts, including bamboo weaving, pottery, and wood carvings. These items make for unique souvenirs. Tea Shops: Purchase high-quality green tea from local tea shops, which offer a variety of teas produced in the surrounding area. Market Streets: Explore the market streets for local snacks, handmade goods, and other unique items reflecting the town's cultural heritage. Accommodation Traditional Guesthouses: Stay in a traditional guesthouse to experience the local lifestyle. Many guesthouses are located in historical buildings with charming courtyards. Mid-Range Hotels: There are several mid-range hotels in Wuyuan County offering comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Budget Options: Budget travelers can find affordable lodging in hostels and budget hotels in and around LiKeng. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit LiKeng are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful. Plan Your Visit: LiKeng is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion LiKeng Ancient Town in JiangXi Province offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring its ancient architecture, savoring local cuisine, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, LiKeng provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this charming and picturesque village.

Beautifully filmed by Niezwykly Swiat ... Let's also sneak in a little night time dance action ...

2012.

BeiJing, Xi'An and ShangHai. A feature-length film. With Dennis Hurd ...

With JetLag Warriors ...

With JiangXi China ... WuYuan Ancient Town, located in JiangXi province, is a place of historical and cultural significance, known for its well-preserved architecture and picturesque scenery. The town is often referred to as a "living museum" of ancient Chinese culture, offering a glimpse into the country's rich historical past. Historical Significance Wuyuan Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years. It flourished during the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties and continued to thrive through the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties. The town's strategic location and prosperous agricultural economy contributed to its development as a cultural and commercial hub. Architecture The architecture of Wuyuan Ancient Town is a highlight, featuring traditional Chinese structures such as ancestral halls, temples, and residential buildings. These structures are characterized by their intricate woodwork, stone carvings, and tile-roofed houses. The well-preserved buildings reflect the elegance and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese architectural styles. Natural Beauty Wuyuan is also renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush mountains, winding rivers, and terraced fields, creating a picturesque setting that changes with the seasons. In spring, the blooming canola flowers turn the fields into a sea of yellow, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts from all over the country. Culture and Traditions Wuyuan Ancient Town is rich in cultural heritage and traditions. The local customs, festivals, and folk arts are well-preserved, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Chinese culture firsthand. The town hosts various cultural events, including lantern festivals, dragon boat races, and traditional opera performances. Notable Sites Some of the notable sites in Wuyuan Ancient Town include: Likeng Village: Known for its beautiful ancient buildings and tranquil environment, Likeng Village offers a glimpse into traditional rural life in China. Rainbow Bridge: A historic covered bridge that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Wuyuan, featuring unique wooden architecture. Xiaoqi Village: Famous for its ancient merchant houses and well-preserved cultural relics. Jiangwan Village: A historic village with a rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture. Tourism and Accessibility Wuyuan Ancient Town has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical charm and natural beauty. The town is easily accessible from major cities in Guangxi and neighboring provinces. Efforts have been made to preserve the town's cultural heritage while developing infrastructure to accommodate tourists.

Beautiful ...