The YongHeGong 雍和宫 Lama Temple and the Confucius Temple 孔子寺庙, BeiJing

With China Walking Tour ... Visitor Guide to JiNan, ShanDong Province Overview JiNan, the capital city of ShanDong Province, is known for its natural springs, rich history, and vibrant culture. Often referred to as the "City of Springs," JiNan is a blend of historical landmarks and modern development, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. Getting There By Air: JiNan Yaoqiang International Airport (TNA) is located about 33 kilometers northeast of the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights. You can take an airport shuttle bus, taxi, or the JiNan Metro to reach the city center. By Train: JiNan is a major railway hub with two main stations: JiNan Railway Station and JiNan West Railway Station. Both stations offer high-speed rail connections to major cities like BeiJing, ShangHai, and Xi’an. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect JiNan to various cities in ShanDong Province and beyond. The main bus stations are JiNan Long-Distance Bus Terminal and JiNan East Bus Station. Getting Around Public Transport: JiNan has an extensive bus network and a growing metro system. The metro is convenient for getting around the city quickly. Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. Biking: Bike-sharing services are popular and convenient for short trips around the city. Main Attractions Baotu Spring Park Baotu Spring Park is one of JiNan's most famous attractions, known for its clear and gushing springs. The park is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the natural scenery, traditional pavilions, and cultural performances. Daming Lake Daming Lake is a large natural lake in the heart of JiNan, surrounded by lush gardens, ancient pavilions, and historic temples. It is a popular spot for boating, picnicking, and enjoying the serene environment. Thousand Buddha Mountain (Qianfo Shan) This mountain is famous for its ancient Buddhist statues and temples. Visitors can hike to the top for a panoramic view of the city or explore the many caves and carvings along the way. ShanDong Provincial Museum ShanDong Provincial Museum houses a vast collection of cultural relics, historical artifacts, and natural exhibits. It offers a comprehensive overview of ShanDong's history and culture. Black Tiger Spring Black Tiger Spring is another renowned spring in JiNan, known for its powerful jets of water that resemble a tiger's roar. The spring is located in a scenic park with beautiful landscaping and walking paths. Local Cuisine JiNan's cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Here are some must-try dishes: JiNan Roast Duck: A local specialty, this roast duck is known for its crispy skin and tender meat, served with pancakes and hoisin sauce. Sweet and Sour Carp: Fresh carp from Daming Lake, prepared in a tangy and sweet sauce, is a signature dish of JiNan. JiNan Noodles: These hand-pulled noodles are often served with a variety of toppings, including meat, vegetables, and spicy sauces. Fried Dumplings: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, JiNan's fried dumplings are a popular street food. Shopping Furong Street: A bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, street food vendors, and souvenir stalls. It's a great place to try local snacks and buy traditional crafts. Quancheng Road: One of JiNan's main shopping streets, offering a mix of modern malls, boutique shops, and local markets. JiNan Wanda Plaza: A large shopping mall with a variety of international and domestic brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel JiNan or the Hyatt Regency JiNan, both offering excellent amenities and service. Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Sofitel JiNan Silver Plaza and Holiday Inn JiNan City Center provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the JiNan Blue Horizon Hotel offer affordable and convenient lodging. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit JiNan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. 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: JiNan is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the parks, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Conclusion JiNan, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural springs, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, savoring the local cuisine, or strolling along the scenic lakes and springs, JiNan provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this fascinating city in ShanDong Province.

NánLuóGǔXiàng was first constructed during the Yuan Dynasty and received its current name during the Qing Dynasty, around 1750. The alley is approximately 800 meters long. In recent years, the area's HuTongs have become a popular tourist destination with restaurants, bars, live music, tea and coffee shops, fast food and souvenir shops, as well as some old SiHeYuan associated with various famous historic and literary figures. NanLuoGuXiang subway station is located near the south entrance to the alley.

With 李子柒 Liziqi ...

Bonus film - China Celebrates its Rise from Humiliated Colony to Global Power with The New Atlas ...

XiāngGéLǐLā, YunNan province. Wonderful films; awesome videography ...

With Walk East ...

With Little Chinese Everywhere ... Karakorum Highway & Tashkurgan Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of the Karakorum Highway & Tashkurgan The Karakorum Highway, often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World, is the highest paved international road, connecting China and Pakistan across the Karakoram mountain range. Its construction began in 1959 and was completed in 1979, symbolizing the strong friendship between China and Pakistan. Tashkurgan, located in Xinjiang, China, is an ancient town with a history that dates back over 2,000 years. It was an important stop on the ancient Silk Road and remains a cultural melting pot, inhabited by the Tajik people who have their own distinct customs and traditions. Top Attractions on the Karakorum Highway & Tashkurgan 1. Khunjerab Pass The Khunjerab Pass, at an elevation of 4,693 meters, is the highest paved border crossing in the world. It marks the border between China and Pakistan and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and pristine landscapes. The pass is part of the Khunjerab National Park, home to unique wildlife such as the snow leopard and Marco Polo sheep. 2. Tashkurgan Stone City Located in the heart of Tashkurgan, the Stone City is an ancient fortress that dates back to the Han Dynasty. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The ruins are a testament to the region’s strategic importance on the Silk Road and offer insights into the ancient trade routes. 3. Karakul Lake Karakul Lake, situated on the Karakorum Highway, is a high-altitude lake at the base of Muztagh Ata, also known as the "Father of Ice Mountains." The crystal-clear blue waters reflect the towering snow-capped peaks, creating a stunning and serene landscape. 4. Taxkorgan Nature Reserve This reserve covers a large area of the Pamir Plateau and is known for its diverse wildlife, including the rare Marco Polo sheep, ibex, and various bird species. The reserve’s rugged landscapes are ideal for trekking and wildlife photography. Activities to Enjoy 1. Trekking and Hiking The Karakorum Highway and Tashkurgan offer some of the best trekking and hiking opportunities in the world. Explore trails that lead through stunning mountain scenery, pastures, and along ancient Silk Road paths. Popular routes include hikes around Karakul Lake and up the slopes of Muztagh Ata. 2. Experiencing Tajik Culture Tashkurgan is home to the Tajik ethnic group, known for their rich cultural traditions. Visitors can experience traditional Tajik music, dance, and hospitality. Don’t miss the chance to attend a local festival or visit a traditional Tajik yurt. 3. Wildlife Watching The Khunjerab National Park and Taxkorgan Nature Reserve are prime locations for wildlife watching. Keep an eye out for the elusive snow leopard, golden eagle, and other unique species that inhabit this high-altitude region. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Pilaf Pilaf is a traditional dish in the region, made with rice, mutton, carrots, and various spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish often served during festivals and family gatherings. 2. Naan Naan, a type of flatbread, is a staple in the local diet. It is typically baked in a tandoor oven and served with various dips, meats, and vegetables. It's a perfect accompaniment to most meals. 3. Kebabs Kebabs are popular in this region, with lamb and beef being the most common meats used. They are seasoned with local spices and grilled over an open flame, offering a delicious smoky flavor. How to Get There By Road The Karakorum Highway is accessible by road from both the Chinese and Pakistani sides. From China, travelers can start from Kashgar, while from Pakistan, the journey begins in Islamabad, passing through Gilgit-Baltistan. By Air There are flights to Kashgar from major Chinese cities like Urumqi and Beijing. From Kashgar, travelers can take a bus or hire a car to Tashkurgan. For those coming from Pakistan, flights are available to Gilgit or Skardu, with further travel by road. By Bus Public and private bus services operate along the Karakorum Highway, providing affordable and scenic travel options. Buses are available from Kashgar to Tashkurgan, and from Islamabad to Gilgit and beyond in Pakistan. Travel Tips for Karakorum Highway & Tashkurgan Due to the high altitude, it is essential to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Take it slow and stay hydrated. Check the weather conditions and road status before traveling, as the Karakorum Highway can be affected by landslides and snow, especially during winter months. Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs may not be available in remote areas. Credit cards are not widely accepted. Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting Tajik communities. Dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photos of people. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including visas and permits, as this region is a sensitive border area with strict controls.

Alan Dawa Dolma sings one of the most beautiful Tibetan Buddhist songs called Laydrei (Karma), in her angelic voice ...