This is GuangZhou 广州

With China Road Tales ... The Stone Village of the NaXi people, located in YunNan Province, China, is a remarkable destination that offers a unique glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, culture, and architecture of the NaXi ethnic minority. Here’s a detailed look at this fascinating village: ### Location and Overview - **Location**: The Stone Village, also known as ShiZhiShu Village, is situated in the YuLong Naxi Autonomous County in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province, near the town of Lijiang. - **Geography**: Nestled in the foothills of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (YuLong XueShan), the village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including rugged mountains, lush forests, and clear streams. ### NaXi Culture and Heritage - **Ethnic Group**: The NaXi people are one of China’s 56 recognized ethnic groups, with a rich cultural heritage that blends elements of Han Chinese, Tibetan, and other neighboring cultures. - **Language**: The NaXi language, belonging to the Sino-Tibetan language family, is still spoken by many villagers. The NaXi also have a unique pictographic script called Dongba, used primarily for religious texts. - **Matriarchal Society**: Historically, the NaXi society was matrilineal, with property and family names passed down through the female line. ### Architecture - **Stone Houses**: The village is renowned for its traditional stone houses, built using local materials such as stone, wood, and mud. These houses are designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment and are known for their durability and unique aesthetic. - **Courtyards**: Many homes are built around central courtyards, which serve as communal spaces for family activities and social gatherings. - **Wooden Carvings**: Intricate wooden carvings and decorations adorn the houses, showcasing the NaXi’s craftsmanship and artistic traditions. ### Traditional Lifestyles - **Agriculture**: The NaXi people in the Stone Village primarily engage in agriculture, cultivating crops such as barley, wheat, and vegetables. They also raise livestock, including pigs, chickens, and yaks. - **Traditional Dress**: The NaXi have distinctive traditional clothing, often featuring bright colors and intricate embroidery. Women’s attire includes long gowns with wide belts and colorful headscarves, while men typically wear tunics and trousers. - **Festivals and Rituals**: The NaXi people celebrate various traditional festivals, such as the Torch Festival and the Sanduo Festival, which are marked by music, dance, and religious ceremonies. ### Dongba Religion - **Animism and Shamanism**: The NaXi practice Dongba religion, an animistic belief system that involves worshiping nature spirits and ancestors. Dongba priests, who are also scholars, play a central role in religious rituals and the preservation of cultural heritage. - **Dongba Texts**: These religious texts are written in the unique Dongba script, a pictographic writing system that dates back over a thousand years. ### Tourism and Preservation - **Cultural Tourism**: The Stone Village has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the traditional lifestyle and culture of the NaXi people. Visitors can explore the village, interact with locals, and learn about their customs and traditions. - **Preservation Efforts**: There are ongoing efforts to preserve the unique architecture and cultural heritage of the Stone Village. Local and regional governments, along with cultural organizations, are working to protect the village from modern development and ensure the continuation of NaXi traditions. ### Nearby Attractions - **Lijiang Ancient Town**: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and vibrant NaXi culture. It is a short drive from the Stone Village and offers additional cultural experiences. - **Jade Dragon Snow Mountain**: This majestic mountain range provides opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying spectacular natural scenery. ### Conclusion The Stone Village of the NaXi people in Yunnan Province is a captivating destination that offers an authentic glimpse into the traditional life and culture of one of China’s most unique ethnic groups. With its distinctive stone architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings, the Stone Village provides a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit.

With Roaming N Watching ... With Fyfy & Nyny ... QiBao Ancient Town visitor guide Overview QiBao Ancient Town, located in the MinHang district of ShangHai, is a picturesque water town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, historical sites, and traditional culture. The name "QiBao" means "Seven Treasures," and the town is famous for its seven historic treasures, though only a few remain today. QiBao offers visitors a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage and a chance to experience traditional JiangNan water town scenery. History QiBao Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years to the Northern Song Dynasty. It flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties as a prosperous commercial hub. Today, QiBao retains much of its historical charm, with well-preserved buildings, stone bridges, and narrow canals that transport visitors back in time. Main Attractions QiBao Temple QiBao Temple is a significant religious and cultural site in the town. Originally built during the Song Dynasty, the temple has undergone several restorations. It is an important place of worship and a symbol of the town's spiritual heritage. QiBao Old Street QiBao Old Street is the heart of the ancient town, lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and food stalls. The street is divided into North Street and South Street, each offering unique experiences and local delicacies. QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum The QiBao Shadow Play Art Museum showcases the traditional Chinese art of shadow puppetry. Visitors can learn about the history of shadow plays, watch live performances, and even try their hand at manipulating the puppets. QiBao Zhuzhai (Old Residences) QiBao Zhuzhai are ancient residential buildings that offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of QiBao's inhabitants. These well-preserved houses reflect the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties and provide insight into the daily lives of ancient Chinese families. Culture and Traditions QiBao Ancient Town is a cultural gem that showcases traditional JiangNan water town culture. The town is known for its traditional crafts, local cuisine, and cultural performances. Visitors can explore the various workshops and studios where artisans create silk, paper-cuts, and other traditional handicrafts. Activities and Experiences Boat Rides One of the best ways to experience QiBao Ancient Town is by taking a boat ride along its narrow canals. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the town's architecture and serene waterways, providing a peaceful and scenic experience. Food Tasting QiBao is renowned for its local delicacies, including QiBao rice cakes, braised pork, and stinky tofu. The food stalls and restaurants along QiBao Old Street offer a wide variety of traditional snacks and dishes that are a must-try for visitors. Cultural Performances Visitors to QiBao can enjoy various cultural performances, including traditional Chinese opera, shadow plays, and folk music. These performances are often held in public squares and cultural centers, providing an authentic cultural experience. Accommodation QiBao Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides an immersive experience and a chance to enjoy the town's charm after the day-trippers have left. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit QiBao Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Getting There: QiBao Ancient Town is located about 18 kilometers from ShangHai city center. It is accessible by metro (Line 9, QiBao Station) or by taxi. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Entrance Fees: There is no entrance fee for the town itself, but some attractions and museums within the town may charge a small fee. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the town's streets are paved with cobblestones and can be uneven. Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and cultural sites, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

In the late afternoon ...

Welcome to Shanghai! Explore the dynamic city of Shanghai, where the past and present seamlessly blend together. From historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers, Shanghai offers an exciting mix of culture, cuisine, and experiences. About Shanghai Shanghai, China's largest city, is a global financial hub known for its futuristic skyline along the Huangpu River. The city is a melting pot of cultures and boasts a rich history influenced by its colonial past. Key features of Shanghai include its iconic Bund waterfront, traditional gardens, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culinary scene. Top Attractions The Bund: Walk along the historic waterfront to admire colonial-era architecture and panoramic views of Pudong. Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden): Explore a classical Chinese garden with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries. Shanghai Tower: Ascend to the top of this skyscraper for breathtaking views of the city skyline. Oriental Pearl Tower: Visit the iconic TV tower with observation decks and a glass-bottomed walkway. Jing'an Temple: Experience the tranquility of this Buddhist temple in the heart of the city. Tianzifang: Wander through narrow alleyways filled with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. Shanghai Museum: Discover ancient Chinese art and artifacts in this world-class museum. French Concession: Stroll through tree-lined streets and explore trendy shops, bars, and restaurants. Shanghai Disneyland: Enjoy a magical day at the renowned Disney theme park. Culture and History Shanghai's culture reflects a blend of traditional Chinese heritage and international influences. Shikumen Architecture: Discover unique stone-gate houses in historic neighborhoods like Xintiandi. Traditional Arts: Attend a Shanghai opera or acrobatics show to witness local performing arts. Colonial Heritage: Learn about Shanghai's past through visits to former French and British concessions. Tea Culture: Participate in a tea ceremony to experience Chinese tea traditions. Dining in Shanghai Shanghai offers a diverse culinary landscape, from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. Xiaolongbao: Try Shanghai's famous soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung or Jia Jia Tang Bao. Hairy Crab: Indulge in seasonal delicacies like Shanghai hairy crab (da zha xie). Shanghai Noodles: Taste savory noodles topped with braised pork or seafood. Street Food: Explore local markets for snacks like scallion pancakes, pot stickers, and stinky tofu. High-End Dining: Experience fine dining at upscale restaurants showcasing modern Chinese cuisine. Shopping in Shanghai From luxury boutiques to bustling markets, Shanghai is a shopper's paradise. Nanjing Road: Shop along China's premier shopping street for international brands and department stores. Tianzifang and Xintiandi: Browse through boutiques and designer shops in these trendy neighborhoods. Old Street (Nanshi): Explore antique markets and traditional handicraft shops near Yu Garden. IAPM Mall: Visit a modern shopping complex with luxury retailers and gourmet dining options. Fake Market (AP Plaza): Haggle for souvenirs, electronics, and clothing at this bustling market. Getting Around Shanghai Shanghai has a convenient public transportation system that includes metro, buses, taxis, and ridesharing services. Shanghai Metro: Navigate the city using the extensive subway network connecting major attractions and districts. Public Buses: Use bus routes to reach specific destinations; consider using mobile apps for route planning. Taxis and Ridesharing: Hail taxis or use apps like Didi for convenient transportation around the city. Bicycles: Rent bikes from bike-sharing stations to explore parks and scenic areas. Where to Stay in Shanghai Choose from a range of accommodations in Shanghai, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Luxury Hotels: Experience world-class hospitality at luxury hotels along the Bund or in Lujiazui. Boutique Hotels: Stay in stylish boutique hotels offering personalized services and unique designs. Hostels and Guesthouses: Budget-friendly options with shared facilities, ideal for backpackers and solo travelers. Apartments and Rentals: Rent serviced apartments or vacation homes for a comfortable and homely stay. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather. Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases; use translation apps for communication. Currency: Use Chinese Yuan (CNY); major credit cards accepted in tourist areas. Etiquette: Respect local customs and manners; avoid public displays of affection. Safety: Be vigilant of pickpockets in crowded areas; carry copies of important documents. Internet Access: Purchase a local SIM card for mobile data; free Wi-Fi available in many cafes and public places. Enjoy Your Trip to Shanghai! Get ready to immerse yourself in the energy and excitement of Shanghai. Whether you're fascinated by history, captivated by the skyline, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Shanghai promises an unforgettable travel experience.

With ZW-Travel ...

HeBei province more or less surrounds BeiJing municipality. ShiJiaZhuang lies about 260 kilometres (160 miles) south-west of BeiJing city.

Every spring, this festival takes place in the capital city as a meeting of artists of all kinds from China and countries worldwide, a cultural exchange covering everything from music - classical, pop and more - to dance, exhibitions and drama, ... expect the unexpected : ) In 2016, the festival runs from April 25 to May 30. Now in its 16th year, the festival will bring together nearly 400 Chinese artists and more than 400 international artists from 25 countries, including the United Kingdom, Spain and France. Canada will be this year's guest country of honor. As a taster, here are two wonderful performances from 2014 - first, a steel band in ChaoYang Park, second an unusual 'quartet' at the National Center for the Performing Arts (don't miss this if you love music) ... Live more !