The ShangHai 上海 World Expo China Pavilion train ride

FengHuang, 凤凰古城, HuNan province, central China. 'Fenghuang', Chinese for 'Phoenix', the mythical bird of good omen and longevity that is consumed by fire only to rise again from the flames, is named after a legend that two of these fabulous birds flew over and found the town so beautiful that they hovered there, reluctant to leave. Step back in time, over a thousand years ...

With MisterVaughn ... Welcome to JingShan Park Explore the historic heart of BeiJing About Jingshan Park Jingshan Park, located in the center of Beijing, is a historic and scenic park with a rich cultural heritage. Originally an imperial garden during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, the park is famous for its artificial hill, Jingshan, which offers panoramic views of the Forbidden City and central Beijing. The hill was created from the soil excavated to build the moats of the Forbidden City and nearby canals. Main Attractions Wanchun Pavilion The Wanchun Pavilion, located at the summit of Jingshan Hill, is the highest point in central Beijing. It offers breathtaking views of the Forbidden City to the south, Beihai Park to the west, and modern Beijing's skyline. Five Pavilions Jingshan Hill features five pavilions aligned along its central axis. Each pavilion offers unique perspectives of the surrounding area and houses a Buddhist statue, reflecting the park's historical significance. Shouhuang Hall The Shouhuang Hall was used by emperors for ancestral worship. Recently renovated, it now serves as an exhibition hall showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Jingshan Park. Peony Garden The Peony Garden, located in the park's southeast corner, is renowned for its stunning collection of peonies. It is a popular spot during the blooming season in late spring when the flowers are in full bloom. Activities Morning Exercises Jingshan Park is a popular spot for locals to perform morning exercises such as tai chi, dancing, and jogging. Visitors can join in or simply enjoy watching these traditional Chinese activities. Photography The park offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially from the summit of Jingshan Hill. Capture panoramic views of the Forbidden City and the surrounding cityscape, or the beautiful gardens and pavilions within the park. Seasonal Festivals Jingshan Park hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Peony Festival in spring and the Chrysanthemum Exhibition in autumn. These events showcase the park's horticultural beauty and traditional Chinese culture. Transport Jingshan Park is easily accessible from various parts of Beijing. Here are some ways to get there: By Subway: Take Line 8 to Shichahai Station, then walk south for about 10 minutes to reach the park's north gate. By Bus: Multiple bus routes stop near Jingshan Park, including routes 5, 58, and 101. Get off at the Jingshan East Gate stop. By Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you are traveling with a group or have heavy luggage. Just ask the driver to take you to Jingshan Park (景山公园).

In HuNan province. Plus a detailed documentary film. Discover why to the Chinese nature is not just a pretty background, but that human life is rooted in nature; that nature is as a holy text of which we are a part ...

With China Walking Tour ... 1. Daxiangguo Temple (大相国寺) Daxiangguo Temple is one of the most renowned Buddhist temples in China, located in the heart of Kaifeng. Originally built during the Northern Wei Dynasty (early 6th century), it has a history spanning over 1,400 years. The temple is famous for its grand architectural design and historical significance, as it was once a prominent center for Buddhist learning and cultural exchange. Visitors can admire its ancient wooden structures, exquisite carvings, and beautiful gardens. The temple is also known for housing numerous cultural relics, including ancient Buddhist scriptures and statues. 2. Shan, Shan, and Gan Guild Hall (山陕甘会馆) The Shan, Shan, and Gan Guild Hall, also known as the Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Gansu Guild Hall, is an impressive historical building that once served as a meeting place for merchants from these regions. Located near the Kaifeng Ancient City Wall, the guild hall is a fine example of traditional Chinese architecture, showcasing intricate woodwork, carved beams, and painted ceilings. It reflects the vibrant commercial life of Kaifeng during the Song Dynasty when it was a bustling trade hub. The hall also features a rich collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the merchant culture of the time. 3. Longting Park (龙亭公园) Longting Park, or Dragon Pavilion Park, is one of Kaifeng’s most famous scenic spots, known for its serene beauty and historical importance. The park is home to the Longting Pavilion, a magnificent structure originally built during the Song Dynasty as a royal palace. The pavilion has been reconstructed over the years, but it still retains its grandeur and historical charm. Surrounded by tranquil lakes and lush greenery, Longting Park is a perfect place to explore the fusion of nature and ancient Chinese architecture. It also houses several other historical buildings and cultural relics, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese history. 4. Chinese Han Garden (中国翰园) The Chinese Han Garden, or Zhongguo Han Yuan, is a unique cultural and architectural park dedicated to showcasing the history and achievements of the Han Dynasty. Located in Kaifeng, this garden beautifully blends traditional Chinese landscape design with ancient architectural styles. It features a collection of pavilions, bridges, and pathways that recreate the atmosphere of the Han Dynasty. The park is home to numerous stone tablets inscribed with famous Chinese calligraphy and poetry, providing visitors with an insight into the intellectual and artistic accomplishments of the era. The tranquil surroundings and impressive structures make it a peaceful retreat for history enthusiasts. These landmarks offer a deep dive into the rich history and architectural grandeur of Kaifeng, making them essential stops for any traveler exploring the city’s cultural heritage. Video 2 The Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden (Qingming Shanghe Yuan, 清明上河园) is a large-scale cultural and historical theme park located in Kaifeng, Henan Province, China. It is inspired by the famous ancient Chinese painting "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" (清明上河图) by the Song Dynasty artist Zhang Zeduan. The park recreates the bustling city life and natural scenery depicted in the painting, reflecting the prosperity of the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 AD). Historical Reproduction: The park meticulously reconstructs the architecture, streets, waterways, marketplaces, and daily life of Bianjing (modern-day Kaifeng), the capital of the Northern Song Dynasty. This immersive environment gives visitors a glimpse into the ancient city's urban culture and economic vitality. Performances and Activities: Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden offers daily performances showcasing traditional Chinese culture, including folk dances, acrobatics, and reenactments of Song Dynasty customs. Highlights include the Imperial Court Parade, martial arts demonstrations, and shadow puppet shows. Cultural Exhibits: Visitors can explore Song-era crafts, such as pottery, calligraphy, and silk weaving. The park also features exhibits about the technologies and trade practices of the time. Interactive Experiences: Guests can dress in traditional Song Dynasty attire, participate in ancient games, and take boat rides along the carefully designed canals that replicate the waterways in the painting. Festivals and Night Tours: During special occasions like the Qingming Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival, the park hosts themed events and illuminates its buildings, creating a magical night-time atmosphere. Significance: Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden is not only a popular tourist attraction but also an important educational site, offering visitors insights into the rich history and culture of the Northern Song Dynasty. It serves as a living museum, celebrating the artistic and architectural achievements of ancient China. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this park is a must-visit destination in Henan Province.

With Travel with Miracle ... Foshan, located in Guangdong Province, is a city rich in culture, history, and culinary delights. Known as the birthplace of martial arts legends like Yip Man and Wong Fei Hung, it offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions. Top Attractions: Ancestor Temple (Zumiao Temple): A Taoist temple showcasing exquisite architectural art from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Visitors can enjoy kung fu shows, lion dances, and Cantonese opera performances. Lingnan Tiandi: A district featuring well-preserved Lingnan-style architecture, with arcades, green brick houses, and stone roads. It's a vibrant area filled with galleries, cafés, bars, and handicraft shops. Ancient Nanfeng Kiln: Built during the Ming Dynasty, it's the oldest continuously operating kiln in the world. Visitors can explore the Shiwan Ceramic Museum and even try their hand at pottery making. Qinghui Garden: One of China's top ten gardens, showcasing classical South Chinese gardening art with its intricate designs and serene landscapes. Xiqiao Mountain Scenic Area: A national park featuring natural beauty and cultural heritage, including the impressive Nanhai Guanyin statue. Culinary Highlights: Foshan, particularly the Shunde district, is renowned for its gastronomy. Recognized by UNESCO as a "City of Gastronomy," it offers a plethora of local delicacies. Travel Tips: Language: Mandarin is widely spoken, but Cantonese is prevalent among locals. Transportation: Foshan is well-connected by metro and buses. It's also close to Guangzhou, making day trips convenient. Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather for sightseeing. Foshan seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern development, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking cultural immersion and culinary adventures.

HuNan province.

HuNan province. With Walk East ...

An 11 day trip through YunNan province in the snow ... Plus, 'Never regret a trip to LiJiang' ... Includes the nearby Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Huangshan, also known as the Yellow Mountains, is a renowned mountain range in southern Anhui Province. Famous for its stunning granite peaks, ancient pine trees, hot springs, and the mystical sea of clouds, Huangshan is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for tourists and photographers. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best attractions, activities, and tips for visiting Huangshan. Top Attractions The Five Peaks of Huangshan Huangshan features several notable peaks, each offering unique scenery and experiences: Lotus Peak (Lianhua Peak): The highest peak at 1,864 meters, providing panoramic views and a challenging climb. Bright Summit (Guangming Ding): Known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Celestial Capital Peak (Tiandu Peak): Famous for its steep, narrow paths and stunning vistas. Purple Cloud Peak (Ziyun Peak): Offers a unique perspective of the mountain range. Beginning-to-Believe Peak (Shixin Peak): Known for its dense pine trees and excellent viewpoints. Sea of Clouds The Sea of Clouds is one of Huangshan's most spectacular phenomena. This natural wonder occurs when fog envelops the valleys and lower peaks, leaving the higher peaks to appear as islands floating in a white sea. Hot Springs The hot springs at the foot of Huangshan are famous for their therapeutic properties. The springs have been a popular attraction for centuries and provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of hiking. Pine Trees The ancient pine trees of Huangshan are known for their unique shapes and resilience, often growing out of rocky crevices. The most famous of these is the Greeting Pine (Ying Ke Song), which appears to welcome visitors with its outstretched branches. Flying-Over Rock This balanced rock is perched precariously on a narrow ledge and is a popular spot for photography. The rock appears to defy gravity and offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks. Geology of Huangshan Huangshan's distinctive landscape is primarily composed of granite, which has been shaped by millions of years of geological activity. The mountain's sharp peaks, deep valleys, and unique rock formations are the result of tectonic uplift and erosion. The granite's resistance to weathering has created the dramatic, jagged peaks that characterize the region. Touring Huangshan Planning Your Visit A visit to Huangshan typically takes two to three days to fully appreciate the main highlights. Here is a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Arriving and Initial Exploration Morning: Arrive at Huangshan and take the Yungu Cable Car to the top. Check into a mountain hotel to drop off your luggage. Afternoon: Explore the Beginning-to-Believe Peak and enjoy the stunning views and unique pine trees. Evening: Watch the sunset from Bright Summit. Day 2: Main Peaks and Scenic Areas Early Morning: Wake up early to catch the sunrise from Bright Summit. Mid-Morning: Hike to Lotus Peak, the highest peak, for panoramic views. Afternoon: Visit Flying-Over Rock and take in the stunning views of the sea of clouds if conditions are right. Evening: Relax at the mountain hotel or explore more of the scenic spots at a leisurely pace. Day 3: Descending and Hot Springs Morning: Take the Yungu Cable Car down to the base of the mountain. Mid-Morning: Visit the hot springs at the base of the mountain for a relaxing soak. Afternoon: Explore the nearby ancient villages such as Hongcun or Xidi before departing. Activities and Experiences Hiking Huangshan offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The trails are well-marked and offer breathtaking views at every turn. Popular routes include the circular path that covers the major peaks and the hike from the base to the summit. Photography The dramatic landscapes of Huangshan provide endless opportunities for photography. Key spots include the Sea of Clouds, the unique pine trees, and the panoramic views from the peaks. Local Cuisine After a day of hiking, enjoy local Anhui cuisine, known for its use of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Specialties include stinky tofu, mandarin fish, and bamboo shoots. There are several restaurants and food stalls at the base of the mountain and near the cable car stations. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit The best times to visit Huangshan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter offers fewer tourists and the chance to see the mountains covered in snow. Getting There Huangshan is accessible by train, bus, and air. The nearest city is Huangshan City (Tunxi), from where you can take a bus or taxi to the mountain. Huangshan Tunxi International Airport has flights from major Chinese cities, and the Huangshan North Railway Station is connected to the high-speed rail network. Accommodation Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels in Huangshan City and near the mountain. For a unique experience, consider staying overnight on the mountain in a guesthouse or hotel, which allows you to catch the sunrise and sunset from the peaks. Tickets and Passes Purchase entrance tickets at the mountain's gates. There are separate tickets for the cable cars and hot springs. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore all the main peaks and scenic areas. Guides and Tours Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the mountain's history, culture, and geology. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, tickets, and guided tours.