The imperative to escape the past (philosophy – the love of truth)

With Beautiful China ... Nanxun Ancient Water Town Visitor Guide Introduction Nestled in the heart of Zhejiang Province, Nanxun Ancient Water Town is a hidden gem among China's water towns. Known for its well-preserved architecture, serene canals, and rich cultural heritage, Nanxun offers a glimpse into the past with a blend of Chinese and Western influences. This guide will provide you with everything you need to explore Nanxun's historic streets, discover its cultural treasures, and enjoy its tranquil beauty. Key Attractions 1. Xiaolian Manor (Little Lotus Garden) Built during the late Qing Dynasty, Xiaolian Manor is one of Nanxun's most famous landmarks. This classical Chinese garden features a picturesque pond, rockeries, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The manor was the private residence of a wealthy silk merchant and offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the past. 2. Jiayetang Library Jiayetang Library, founded by a wealthy silk merchant named Liu Chenggan, is one of China's oldest private libraries. The library's collection includes ancient manuscripts, rare books, and classic Chinese literature. The architecture is a blend of traditional Chinese and Western styles, reflecting the cultural exchange that characterized Nanxun's history. 3. Zhang Shiming Mansion The Zhang Shiming Mansion is an exquisite example of traditional Chinese residential architecture with Western influences. The mansion's intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and spacious courtyards provide a fascinating insight into the lives of Nanxun's wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 4. Guanghui Palace (Guanghui Taoist Temple) Guanghui Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Nanxun, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty. This Taoist temple is dedicated to the worship of the Taoist deity Xuanwu. Visitors can admire the temple's ancient architecture, Taoist sculptures, and serene atmosphere. Cultural Activities Nanxun is not only about its historical architecture but also about the cultural experiences that bring the town to life. Here are some activities to immerse yourself in the local culture: Boat Rides on the Canals: Experience the charm of Nanxun from the water by taking a leisurely boat ride along its tranquil canals. The boat rides offer a unique perspective of the ancient bridges, white-washed houses, and overhanging willow trees. Silk Weaving Demonstrations: Nanxun has a long history of silk production. Visit one of the local silk weaving workshops to see traditional techniques in action and learn about the town's silk-making heritage. Tea Tasting: Enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at one of the local teahouses. Savor the flavors of locally grown green teas while relaxing by the water's edge. Calligraphy and Painting Workshops: Join a workshop to learn the art of Chinese calligraphy and painting. These hands-on experiences offer insight into traditional Chinese arts and crafts. Dining Options Nanxun offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving traditional Chinese dishes to charming cafes. Here are some recommendations: Local Dishes: Try the famous Nanxun braised pork, lotus root soup, and other local delicacies at traditional restaurants like Nongfu Restaurant and Nanxun Old Town Cuisine. Waterfront Cafés: Enjoy a relaxing meal or a cup of coffee at one of the quaint waterfront cafés, where you can take in the scenic views of the canals and historic buildings. Street Food: Explore the narrow streets and alleys to find street vendors selling snacks like rice dumplings, tofu pudding, and steamed buns. These local treats are perfect for a quick bite. Teahouses: Visit traditional teahouses like Wangfu Teahouse for an authentic tea-drinking experience. Pair your tea with local pastries and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Nanxun, when the weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful. Getting There: Nanxun is located about 120 kilometers from Shanghai and 80 kilometers from Hangzhou. It can be reached by bus or car. Regular buses run from Shanghai and Hangzhou to Nanxun. What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you will be exploring cobbled streets and bridges. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sunny days, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Language: Mandarin is the primary language spoken in Nanxun. Learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be helpful. Entrance Fees: Some attractions in Nanxun, such as Xiaolian Manor and Zhang Shiming Mansion, may have an entrance fee. It's a good idea to carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards. Respect Local Culture: Nanxun is a place of historical and cultural significance. Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and historical sites. Taking photos inside temples may be prohibited.

With Thinkers Forum - Zhang WeiWei, Jeffrey Sachs and Charles Li ... With Ben Norton ... With Louis Vincent Gave ... With Richard Wolff ... And Michael Hudson ... And Danny Haiphong ... With Brian Berletic ... With Lawrence Wilkerson and Pascal Lottaz / Neutrality Studies ... With KJ Noh ... With Yanis Varoufakis and Arnaud Bertrand ... With Daniel Dumbrill and Carl Zha ...

喝的是茶，过的是生活 Thousands of years ago, a magic leaf traveled worldwide from China. And this year, around Grain Rain, I went tea picking before the best season is gone. Then I roasted green tea and scented some with flowers! For me, drinking tea is as much of high art as everyday life-- that's the essence of inclusiveness. 【李子柒 LiZiQi】 A beautiful film by LiZiQi - don't miss it ...

Filmed in November 2013. Places featured: Hong Kong *, Li River (GuangXi) *, LiJiang (YunNan), Tiger Leaping Gorge *, ChengDu (pandas), Tibet *, ShangHai, BeiJing (wild Great Wall *); * indicates most footage. With Jaap Barneveld ... ( : BeijingBuzzz - 20 years of the best China travel and culture videos : )

YT comment : "I hope haters could put down their bias for a while, and try to understand how Chinese people value their families, value their communities, their societies, and understand the connection between these traits and the achievement that China has made." With 歪果仁研究协会 YChina / Raz Galor ... Bonus film (fun in GuangZhou) ...

4-Week Food Tour of China This itinerary covers a diverse range of regional cuisines in China, from the hearty flavors of Northern cuisine to the fiery spice of SiChuan, the delicate dishes of JiangSu, and the fresh seafood of Cantonese cuisine. Week 1: Beijing and Northern Cuisine Sample Beijing's famous Peking Duck at renowned restaurants such as Quanjude or Da Dong. Explore the bustling Wangfujing Snack Street and try local street food delicacies like jianbing (savory Chinese crepes) and lamb skewers. Indulge in traditional Beijing snacks like zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste), douzhi (fermented mung bean soup), and tanghulu (candied fruit skewers). Week 2: Sichuan Province and Spicy Cuisine Experience the bold and spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine with dishes like mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and hot pot. Visit Chengdu's famous food streets, such as Jinli Ancient Street and Kuanzhai Alley, to sample a variety of Sichuan snacks and street foods. Explore local markets like Jinli and Wuhou, where you can taste authentic Sichuan specialties and shop for spices and ingredients. Week 3: Shanghai and Jiangsu Cuisine Enjoy Shanghai's vibrant food scene with a mix of classic dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns), and hairy crab. Explore traditional Shanghainese restaurants and local eateries in areas like Yuyuan Garden, Xintiandi, and Tianzifang. Sample Jiangsu cuisine specialties like braised pork belly, sweet and sour spare ribs, and freshwater delicacies from the nearby Yangtze River. Week 4: Guangdong Province and Cantonese Cuisine Discover the diverse flavors of Cantonese cuisine in Guangzhou, known for its fresh seafood, roasted meats, and dim sum. Explore local markets like Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street and Guangzhou's Wholesale Food Market to taste a wide range of Cantonese dishes and snacks. Indulge in iconic Cantonese dishes such as roast duck, steamed fish, BBQ pork, and shrimp dumplings.

With SiWen Li ... The wonders of YunNan province Yunnan Province, located in the southwestern part of China, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ethnic traditions. From towering mountains and deep gorges to ancient towns and vibrant festivals, Yunnan offers something for every traveler. Here’s a detailed guide to the wonders of Yunnan. Natural Wonders Yunnan is home to some of China’s most stunning natural landscapes. Here are the must-see natural wonders: 1. Stone Forest (Shilin) Located near Kunming, the Stone Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring towering limestone formations that resemble a forest made of stone. The area is rich in Karst geology and offers scenic walking paths, caves, and ethnic Yi cultural performances. 2. Tiger Leaping Gorge One of the deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge is located on the Jinsha River, a tributary of the Yangtze. It offers breathtaking hiking trails with views of snow-capped mountains, roaring rapids, and dramatic cliffs. 3. Yuanyang Rice Terraces These UNESCO-listed rice terraces are a masterpiece of agricultural engineering, created by the Hani people over centuries. The terraces are especially stunning at sunrise and sunset, when the water-filled fields reflect the sky like mirrors. 4. Meili Snow Mountain Part of the Hengduan Mountain Range, Meili Snow Mountain is a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists. Its highest peak, Kawagebo, is one of the most challenging mountains to climb in the world. 5. Pudacuo National Park Located near Shangri-La, this park is part of the Three Parallel Rivers UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features pristine lakes, wetlands, and forests, as well as diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Yunnan snub-nosed monkey. Cultural and Historical Wonders Yunnan’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its ancient towns, temples, and ethnic traditions. Here are the top cultural wonders: 1. Lijiang Ancient Town A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, cobblestone streets, and intricate canal system. The town is home to the Naxi people, whose unique Dongba culture is showcased in local music, art, and festivals. 2. Dali Ancient Town Dali is famous for its historic charm, with ancient city walls, traditional Bai-style houses, and the iconic Three Pagodas. The town is a gateway to Erhai Lake, a scenic freshwater lake surrounded by villages and temples. 3. Shangri-La (Zhongdian) Known as the “Land of Eternal Peace and Perfection,” Shangri-La is a Tibetan-influenced region with stunning monasteries, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains. Key attractions include the Songzanlin Monastery and the Dukezong Ancient Town. 4. Xishuangbanna This tropical region is home to the Dai people and features lush rainforests, Buddhist temples, and vibrant water-splashing festivals. Don’t miss the Wild Elephant Valley and the Dai Ethnic Park. 5. Jianshui Ancient Town Jianshui is known for its well-preserved Confucian Temple, ancient wells, and traditional courtyard houses. The town is also a gateway to the stunning Double Dragon Bridge and the Swallow Cave. Ethnic Diversity Yunnan is home to 25 of China’s 56 recognized ethnic groups, making it one of the most culturally diverse provinces in the country. Key ethnic groups include: Yi: Known for their vibrant festivals and traditional torch celebrations. Bai: Famous for their Three-Course Tea ceremony and traditional architecture in Dali. Naxi: Known for their Dongba script and ancient music in Lijiang. Tibetan: Influential in Shangri-La, with a rich tradition of Buddhism and nomadic culture. Dai: Known for their water-splashing festival and tropical lifestyle in Xishuangbanna. Festivals and Events Yunnan’s ethnic diversity is celebrated through vibrant festivals and events. Some of the most famous include: Torch Festival (Yi People): A lively celebration featuring torch-lit processions, dancing, and traditional music. Water-Splashing Festival (Dai People): A joyful event where people splash water to wash away bad luck and welcome the new year. Third Moon Fair (Bai People): A traditional market and cultural festival held in Dali. Shangri-La Horse Racing Festival: A showcase of Tibetan culture, featuring horse races, singing, and dancing. Local Cuisine Yunnan’s cuisine is as diverse as its culture, with unique flavors and ingredients. Must-try dishes include: Crossing the Bridge Noodles (过桥米线): A famous Yunnan dish featuring rice noodles served in a flavorful broth with various toppings. Xuanwei Ham: A cured ham with a rich, smoky flavor, often used in soups and stir-fries. Erkuai: A type of rice cake that can be stir-fried, grilled, or served in soups. Yunnan Cheese (Rushan): A traditional dairy product made by the Bai people, often grilled or fried. Pu’er Tea: A famous fermented tea from Yunnan, known for its earthy flavor and health benefits. How to Get There Yunnan is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Key entry points include: Kunming: The provincial capital and main transportation hub, with an international airport and high-speed rail connections. Lijiang: Accessible by flight or train from Kunming. Dali: Connected to Kunming by high-speed rail and bus services. Shangri-La: Accessible by flight or bus from Kunming and Lijiang. Travel Tips Plan for Altitude: Some areas, like Shangri-La, are at high altitudes. Take time to acclimatize and stay hydrated. Respect Local Customs: Yunnan’s ethnic groups have unique traditions and beliefs. Be mindful and respectful when visiting their communities. Pack for All Weather: Yunnan’s climate varies widely, from tropical in Xishuangbanna to cold in Shangri-La. Bring layers and rain gear. Learn Basic Mandarin: While some locals speak English, knowing a few Mandarin phrases can enhance your experience. Why Visit Yunnan? Yunnan Province is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ethnic diversity. Whether you’re exploring ancient towns, hiking through dramatic landscapes, or immersing yourself in vibrant festivals, Yunnan offers an unforgettable travel experience.