WuLingYuan 武陵源 Scenic Area, HuNan province

Introduction China's traditional arts and crafts reflect its rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic backgrounds. These art forms have been passed down through generations, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and profound cultural significance. Here are the top 50 traditional Chinese arts and crafts, along with their origins and associated ethnicities. 1. Chinese Calligraphy (书法, Shūfǎ) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese calligraphy is the art of writing Chinese characters with a brush and ink. It is highly regarded for its aesthetic qualities and expressive potential. 2. Chinese Painting (国画, Guóhuà) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Traditional Chinese painting involves brushwork on paper or silk, depicting landscapes, flowers, birds, and human figures. 3. Cloisonné (景泰蓝, Jǐngtàilán) Origin: Yuan Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metalwork objects with enamel, featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors. 4. Chinese Embroidery (刺绣, Cìxiù) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han, Miao, Yi, Zhuang Chinese embroidery is a decorative art that involves stitching intricate patterns onto fabrics using silk or cotton threads. 5. Paper Cutting (剪纸, Jiǎnzhǐ) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Paper cutting is a folk art where designs are cut into paper, traditionally used for window decorations and festival celebrations. 6. Porcelain (瓷器, Cíqì) Origin: Shang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese porcelain, known for its delicate beauty and durability, has been highly prized for centuries and is often decorated with intricate designs. 7. Jade Carving (玉雕, Yùdiāo) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Jade carving is the art of shaping jade into ornaments, figurines, and ritual objects, revered for its beauty and spiritual significance. 8. Chinese Opera Masks (戏曲面具, Xìqǔ Miànjù) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Opera masks are used in traditional Chinese theater to represent various characters and their traits through colors and patterns. 9. Silk Weaving (丝织, Sīzhī) Origin: Shang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Silk weaving is an ancient craft involving the production of silk fabric, known for its smooth texture and luxurious appearance. 10. Chinese Knotting (中国结, Zhōngguó Jié) Origin: Tang and Song Dynasties Ethnicity: Han Chinese knotting is the art of creating decorative knots using a single length of cord, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. 11. Bronze Casting (青铜铸造, Qīngtóng Zhùzào) Origin: Shang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Bronze casting is an ancient method of creating bronze objects, including vessels, weapons, and ritual items, through mold casting. 12. Batik (蜡染, Làrǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao, Buyi Batik is a traditional textile art involving wax-resist dyeing, creating intricate patterns on fabric, commonly practiced by the Miao and Buyi people. 13. Lacquerware (漆器, Qīqì) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Lacquerware involves coating objects with lacquer to create a hard, shiny surface, often decorated with intricate designs and inlays. 14. Bamboo Weaving (竹编, Zhúbiān) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Bamboo weaving is the craft of creating items like baskets, mats, and furniture using bamboo strips, valued for its durability and flexibility. 15. Chinese Puppetry (木偶戏, Mù'ǒuxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese puppetry involves using hand-crafted puppets to perform traditional stories and plays, combining art, music, and storytelling. 16. Thangka Painting (唐卡, Tángkǎ) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Thangka painting is a Tibetan Buddhist art form that involves creating religious images on cloth, used for meditation and teaching. 17. Pottery (陶器, Táoqì) Origin: Neolithic Period Ethnicity: Han Pottery is one of the earliest forms of Chinese art, with hand-crafted ceramic vessels used for cooking, storage, and rituals. 18. Chinese Shadow Puppetry (皮影戏, Píyǐngxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Shadow puppetry involves manipulating flat puppets behind a screen to create shadows, telling stories with music and narration. 19. Rattan Weaving (藤编, Téngbiān) Origin: Ancient Times Ethnicity: Dai, Li Rattan weaving is the craft of making furniture, baskets, and other items using rattan, commonly practiced by the Dai and Li ethnic groups. 20. Dough Figurines (面人, Miànrén) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Dough figurines are traditional folk art made from colored dough, sculpted into various characters, animals, and scenes. 21. Silver Jewelry Making (银饰, Yínshì) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao, Yi Silver jewelry making involves crafting intricate silver ornaments, often worn during festivals and ceremonies by the Miao and Yi people. 22. Chinese Seal Carving (篆刻, Zhuànkè) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Seal carving is the art of engraving characters or designs onto stone or wood seals, used for stamping documents and artwork. 23. Tangka Embroidery (唐卡刺绣, Tángkǎ Cìxiù) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tangka embroidery combines traditional embroidery techniques with religious themes, creating elaborate and colorful textile art. 24. Peking Opera Costumes (京剧服装, Jīngjù Fúzhuāng) Origin: Qing Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Peking Opera costumes are elaborate and symbolic garments worn by performers, representing different characters and social statuses. 25. Wooden Fish Carving (木鱼雕刻, Mùyú Diāokè) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Wooden fish carving is a traditional craft involving the creation of wooden fish sculptures, often used in Buddhist temples as percussion instruments. 26. Tie-Dye (扎染, Zhārǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Bai Tie-dye is a textile art practiced by the Bai people, involving the tying and dyeing of fabric to create intricate patterns and designs. 27. Paper Fans (纸扇, Zhǐshàn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Paper fans are traditional hand-held fans made from paper and bamboo, often decorated with calligraphy and paintings. 28. Dragon and Lion Dance (舞龙舞狮, Wǔlóng Wǔshī) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han The dragon and lion dance are traditional Chinese performances involving large, colorful costumes, performed during festivals to bring good luck. 29. Ethnic Costumes (民族服饰, Mínzú Fúshì) Origin: Varies Ethnicity: Various (e.g., Yi, Zhuang, Miao) Ethnic costumes are traditional garments worn by various ethnic groups in China, each with distinct styles, colors, and patterns reflecting their culture. 30. Kesi Weaving (缂丝, Kēsī) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Kesi weaving is a highly intricate form of silk tapestry weaving, creating detailed and colorful patterns often used for clothing and artwork. 31. Woodblock Printing (木版画, Mùbǎn Huà) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Woodblock printing is a technique for printing text, images, and patterns, involving carving designs into wooden blocks and pressing them onto paper or fabric. 32. Shadow Play (皮影戏, Píyǐngxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Shadow play is a traditional form of storytelling using silhouetted figures manipulated behind a translucent screen, accompanied by music and narration. 33. Chinese Garden Design (中国园林, Zhōngguó Yuánlín) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Chinese garden design is the art of creating harmonious landscapes that combine natural elements like rocks, water, and plants with architecture and art. 34. Miao Silver Jewelry (苗银, Miáo Yín) Origin: Qing Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao Miao silver jewelry is known for its intricate designs and craftsmanship, often worn during festivals and ceremonies by the Miao people. 35. Chinese Paper Umbrellas (油纸伞, Yóuzhǐ Sǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Paper umbrellas are traditional umbrellas made from oiled paper and bamboo, used for protection against rain and sun, and as decorative items. 36. Tibetan Thangka Painting (唐卡, Tángkǎ) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan Thangka painting involves creating religious images on cloth, used for meditation and teaching in Tibetan Buddhism. 37. Chinese Shadow Puppetry (皮影戏, Píyǐngxì) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Shadow puppetry is a traditional form of storytelling using silhouetted figures manipulated behind a translucent screen, accompanied by music and narration. 38. Hunan Embroidery (湘绣, Xiāngxiù) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Hunan embroidery is a traditional Chinese embroidery style known for its fine craftsmanship and lifelike images, often depicting nature and animals. 39. Guizhou Batik (贵州蜡染, Guìzhōu Làrǎn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Miao, Buyi Guizhou batik is a traditional textile art involving wax-resist dyeing, creating intricate patterns on fabric, commonly practiced by the Miao and Buyi people. 40. Tibetan Rugs (藏毯, Zàngtǎn) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan rugs are hand-woven woolen rugs known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs, used for both practical and decorative purposes. 41. Hanfu Clothing (汉服, Hànfú) Origin: Zhou Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Hanfu is traditional Chinese clothing worn by the Han people, characterized by flowing robes, wide sleeves, and intricate embroidery. 42. Tibetan Singing Bowls (西藏唱盘, Xīzàng Chàngpán) Origin: 8th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan singing bowls are metal bowls that produce a resonant sound when struck or rubbed, used in meditation and healing practices. 43. Manchu Embroidery (满绣, Mǎnxiù) Origin: Qing Dynasty Ethnicity: Manchu Manchu embroidery is a traditional embroidery style known for its intricate designs and vibrant colors, often depicting nature and animals. 44. Suzhou Embroidery (苏绣, Sūxiù) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Han Suzhou embroidery is a highly detailed and refined embroidery style known for its realistic images and delicate stitching, often depicting landscapes and flowers. 45. Traditional Chinese Musical Instruments (传统乐器, Chuántǒng Yuèqì) Origin: Various Ethnicity: Various Traditional Chinese musical instruments include the guzheng, erhu, pipa, and dizi, each with its own unique sound and playing technique, used in various forms of Chinese music. 46. Tibetan Butter Sculpture (酥油花, Sūyóu Huā) Origin: 7th Century Ethnicity: Tibetan Tibetan butter sculpture is a traditional art form involving the creation of intricate sculptures from colored butter, often used in religious ceremonies. 47. Yi Embroidery (彝绣, Yíxiù) Origin: Ancient Times Ethnicity: Yi Yi embroidery is a traditional embroidery style known for its bold colors and geometric patterns, often depicting nature and cultural symbols. 48. Dong Brocade (侗锦, Dòngjǐn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Dong Dong brocade is a traditional textile art practiced by the Dong people, known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often used for clothing and household items. 49. Zhuang Brocade (壮锦, Zhuàngjǐn) Origin: Han Dynasty Ethnicity: Zhuang Zhuang brocade is a traditional textile art practiced by the Zhuang people, known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often used for clothing and household items. 50. Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony (茶道, Chá Dào) Origin: Tang Dynasty Ethnicity: Han The traditional Chinese tea ceremony is a cultural activity involving the ceremonial preparation and presentation of tea, reflecting Chinese values of harmony, respect, and tranquility. Conclusion These traditional Chinese arts and crafts offer a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage, showcasing the creativity and skill of various ethnic groups. They continue to be celebrated and preserved, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of China.

Filmed in May 2010. A well narrated tour of this amazing city ...

How the West created the discord with China, and Asia, and what might ensue ...

With MisterVaughn ... With ABingYOLO ... With Downtown China ... Welcome to BeiHai Park Explore the historical and cultural wonders of BeiHai Park in Beijing. Introduction Beihai Park is one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved ancient imperial gardens in China. It is located in the heart of Beijing and offers visitors a beautiful blend of traditional Chinese architecture, gardens, and waterways. Location Beihai Park is situated in the Xicheng District of central Beijing, just north of the Forbidden City. History Beihai Park has a history of over 1,000 years, dating back to the Liao Dynasty. It was extensively renovated and expanded during the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, with significant contributions from Emperor Kublai Khan of the Yuan Dynasty. The park has served as an imperial garden and a place of worship for several Chinese dynasties. Attractions White Dagoba: An iconic white stupa located on Qionghua Island, built in 1651 to honor the visit of the 5th Dalai Lama to Beijing. Qionghua Island: The central island of Beihai Park, featuring beautiful pavilions, halls, and scenic views. Nine-Dragon Screen: A 27-meter-long, 6.65-meter-high glazed-tile wall depicting nine vivid dragons playing in the clouds, built in 1756. Five-Dragon Pavilions: A group of five connected pavilions overlooking the lake, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Jade Flowery Islet: An islet with lush vegetation, bridges, and historical buildings, including the Hall of the Heavenly King. Yong'an Temple: A Buddhist temple on Qionghua Island, featuring stunning architecture and peaceful gardens. Round City: A small city within Beihai Park, surrounded by high walls and featuring the Chengguang Hall, which houses a large jade Buddha statue. Eastern Shore Area: Includes attractions like the Hao Pu Creek Garden and the Iron Screen Wall. Western Shore Area: Features the Pavilion of One Thousand Buddhas and the Garden of Tranquil Heart. Jingxin Studio Western Heaven Temple Fangshan Restaurant Activities Boating on Beihai Lake Strolling through the gardens Photography Visiting historical and cultural sites Enjoying traditional Chinese performances Participating in seasonal festivals and events Facilities Visitor Center Restrooms Gift Shops Cafes and Restaurants Parking Lots Boat Rental Services Guided Tour Services Visitor Tips Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to stay for several hours. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Respect the cultural and historical significance of the site; behave appropriately and follow all rules and guidelines. Take advantage of the boat rental services to explore Beihai Lake from a unique perspective.

Neither Russia nor China are warmongers, neither seek some kind of world domination, only protection; hegemony is very much only a fantasy of the West (the neo-feudal elites, not the people). If either did not assist the other in time of war, they would go down soon after. Russia has the nukes, China has the manpower and manufacturing. Only together can they withstand the imminent war. On Roosevelt's notion of economic freedom - with The Gravel Institute ... Meanwhile ...

With Walk East ...

Day Trips from ShangHai, China Suzhou 苏州 (Sūzhōu): Explore the "Venice of the East" known for its classical gardens, ancient canals, and traditional architecture. Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, stroll along Pingjiang Road, and take a boat ride on the Grand Canal. Hangzhou 杭州 (Hángzhōu): Discover the scenic beauty of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by lush hills and ancient temples. Visit the Lingyin Temple, explore the Six Harmonies Pagoda, and enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the lake. Nanjing 南京 (Nánjīng): Explore the historic capital of China known for its ancient city walls, imperial palaces, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, walk along the Qinhuai River, and climb to the top of the Nanjing City Wall for panoramic views. Wuzhen 乌镇 (Wūzhèn): Step back in time in this ancient water town known for its well-preserved architecture, stone bridges, and tranquil canals. Explore the East and West Scenic Areas, visit the Folk Custom Museum, and take a boat ride along the waterways. Shaoxing 绍兴 (Shàoxīng): Experience the cultural heritage of this historic city famous for its ancient canals, traditional wooden houses, and rice wine. Visit the Lu Xun Former Residence, explore the Keyan Scenic Area, and sample local specialties such as stinky tofu and fermented rice wine. Huangshan 黄山 (Huángshān): Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Yellow Mountain, known for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and mystical beauty. Hike along scenic trails, watch the sunrise from the summit, and marvel at the sea of clouds. Shaoxing 绍兴 (Shàoxīng): Explore the ancient water town of Wuzhen, known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, stone bridges, and tranquil canals. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit historic residences and workshops, and enjoy a boat ride along the waterways. Nanjing 南京 (Nánjīng): Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Nanjing, the ancient capital of China. Visit the Nanjing City Wall, explore the Confucius Temple area, and stroll along the banks of the Qinhuai River. Hangzhou 杭州 (Hángzhōu): Relax in the scenic beauty of West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its serene landscapes and historic sites. Take a leisurely boat cruise, visit Lingyin Temple, and explore the picturesque pagodas and gardens. Suzhou 苏州 (Sūzhōu): Explore the classical gardens and ancient water towns of Suzhou, known for their tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visit the Master of the Nets Garden, take a boat ride along the Grand Canal, and stroll through the historic streets of Pingjiang Road. Zhouzhuang 周庄 (Zhōuzhuāng): Experience the charm of Zhouzhuang, one of China's most famous water towns, with its picturesque canals, historic bridges, and traditional architecture. Visit the Twin Bridges, explore the Shen's Residence, and take a boat ride through the scenic waterways. Wuxi 无锡 (Wúxī): Discover the beauty of Taihu Lake, one of China's largest freshwater lakes, surrounded by lush hills and scenic gardens. Visit the Lingshan Grand Buddha, explore the Xihui Park, and enjoy a boat cruise on the lake. Ningbo 宁波 (Níngbō): Explore the historic port city of Ningbo, known for its ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Tianyi Pavilion, stroll along the Moon Lake, and sample local delicacies at the bustling food markets. Shanghai Disney Resort 上海迪士尼度假区 (Shànghǎi Díshìní Dùjià Qū): Enjoy a day of fun and adventure at Shanghai Disney Resort, featuring thrilling rides, live shows, and iconic Disney characters. Explore the Magic Kingdom, visit the Enchanted Storybook Castle, and watch the spectacular fireworks display. Qibao Seven Treasures 七宝老街 (Qībǎo Lǎojiē): Step back in time in the ancient water town of Qibao, known for its historic buildings, traditional markets, and scenic canals. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the Temple of the Town God, and sample local street food such as sticky rice cakes and deep-fried dough sticks. Huzhou 湖州 (Húzhōu): Relax in the picturesque scenery of Taihu Lake, known for its serene landscapes and historic sites. Visit the Feiying Pagoda, explore the Nanxun Ancient Town, and take a boat cruise on the tranquil waters of the lake. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium 上海海洋水族馆 (Shànghǎi Hǎiyáng Shuǐzúguǎn): Explore the underwater world at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, home to thousands of marine species from around the globe. Marvel at the colorful coral reefs, watch sharks swim overhead in the underwater tunnel, and learn about marine conservation efforts. Chongming Island 崇明岛 (Chóngmíng Dǎo): Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the natural beauty of Chongming Island, the largest alluvial island in the Yangtze River. Visit Dongping National Forest Park, cycle along scenic trails, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. Tongli 同里 (Tónglǐ): Discover the charm of Tongli, a picturesque water town known for its ancient bridges, tranquil canals, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visit the Retreat and Reflection Garden, explore the Chongben Hall, and take a boat ride along the scenic waterways. Moganshan 莫干山 (Mògānshān): Retreat to the scenic beauty of Moganshan, a mountain resort known for its bamboo forests, tea plantations, and cool mountain breezes. Hike along scenic trails, visit historic villas, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.