Yanni – China 中国 concert tour 2011 – behind the scenes

JiangSu province. Near SuZhou; not far from Shanghai. Along the HangZhou to Beijing ancient Grand Canal (still the world's longest, by far).

With China Road Tales ... Zezhol Monastery, a spiritual beacon of the Bon Religion Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the renowned holy mountain, Mt. Zezhol, Zezhol Monastery stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of the Bon religion, one of the oldest spiritual traditions in Tibet; indeed, the indigenous faith of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Located in DingQing County, Chamdo, in eastern Tibet, this sacred site is situated at an impressive altitude of 4,800 meters, making it not only one of the highest monasteries in Tibet but also one of the most significant centers for the Bon religion. The monastery lies approximately 37 kilometers from the county town, adding to its mystique and remoteness, which only enhances its spiritual aura. The Bon Religion: A Deep-Rooted Tradition The Bon religion predates the introduction of Buddhism to Tibet and is believed to have originated in the ancient kingdom of Zhangzhung, centered around the sacred Mount Kailash. Bon has played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual and cultural landscape of Tibet, and despite the dominance of Tibetan Buddhism, Bon continues to thrive in certain areas, particularly in eastern Tibet and in communities that maintain strong ties to their indigenous spiritual heritage. Bon is characterized by its unique practices and rituals, which include worship of nature spirits, ancestor reverence, and a rich tradition of oral teachings. The religion encompasses a wide array of rituals intended to harmonize with natural forces, protect communities from malevolent spirits, and promote the well-being of individuals and society as a whole. Central to Bon is the belief in the interconnectedness of all life, the importance of living in harmony with nature, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Zezhol Monastery: A Center of Bon Spirituality Zezhol Monastery is not only a religious site but also a living repository of Bon teachings and practices. The monastery's location on Mt. Zezhol, a mountain revered as sacred in the Bon tradition, underscores its importance as a place of pilgrimage and spiritual refuge. The faithful believe that the mountain itself is imbued with spiritual power, and the monastery, perched precariously on its cliffs, serves as a conduit between the physical and spiritual realms. Founded centuries ago, Zezhol Monastery has been a pivotal center for the preservation and dissemination of Bon teachings. It houses ancient scriptures, sacred relics, and thangka paintings that depict the Bon deities and cosmology. The monastery’s monks continue to perform traditional Bon rituals, including offerings to the mountain spirits, ceremonies to ensure harmony between humans and nature, and the recitation of ancient Bon texts. The Continuing Influence of Bon Today Despite the rise of Tibetan Buddhism, the Bon religion has managed to survive and even thrive in certain areas of Tibet. Today, Bon practitioners can be found not only in Tibet but also in Nepal, Bhutan, and among the Tibetan diaspora worldwide. The influence of Bon is particularly evident in eastern Tibet, where communities still practice Bon rituals and uphold its teachings. In some regions, Bon rituals are integrated into local Buddhist practices, creating a syncretic form of spirituality that honors both traditions. For instance, many Tibetan Buddhists incorporate Bon deities and rituals into their own religious practices, recognizing the deep cultural and spiritual roots that Bon has in Tibetan society. Furthermore, Bon teachings on the relationship between humans and the natural world continue to resonate, particularly in the context of environmental preservation and sustainable living. Zezhol Monastery remains a vital symbol of this enduring legacy. Pilgrims from across Tibet and beyond visit the monastery to seek blessings, participate in rituals, and connect with the ancient spiritual traditions that have shaped their culture. The monastery’s remote location, high in the mountains, adds to its allure as a place of profound spiritual significance, where the faithful can retreat from the material world and engage deeply with the sacred. Conclusion Zezhol Monastery is more than just a religious site; it is a living testament to the resilience and continuity of the Bon religion in Tibet. As one of the highest and oldest Bon monasteries, it plays a crucial role in preserving this ancient tradition, offering a place of refuge and spiritual nourishment to those who seek to connect with the deep, mystical roots of Tibetan spirituality. In a rapidly changing world, Zezhol Monastery and the Bon religion it represents continue to provide a link to the past, offering insights and teachings that are as relevant today as they were centuries ago.

Mǐfěn Miàn. A staple of YunNan 'small eats' 小吃 (XiǎoChī) street food dishes. With DianXi XiaoGe #滇西小哥 ...

The YuLong River, YùLóng Hé, starts in YangShuo County near Litang and flows for over 35 kilometers (22 miles) to the Li River near the town of Ping Le; GuangXi province. The YuLong River is relatively shallow at around 5 meters (16 feet) maximum depth and is an average of 25 meters (82 feet) across. Unlike the deeper Li River, it has no motorized boat traffic and bamboo rafts, paddle boats and swimming are popular. The bamboo raft journey begins at the YuLong Bridge, which is 400 years old. Hiking and biking are also popular as there are many quaint villages along the river, some offering bed and breakfast accommodation. The YuLong River Valley is very fertile, and its low-lying terrain is excellent for rice fields. In recent years, farmers have also planted more cash crops such as pomelos, tangerines and mandarin oranges.

ChangBai Mountain, ChangBaiShan ('Ever White Mountain'), is located in the south east of JiLin province, on the border between China and North Korea. The mountain is actually a volcano, with a height of 2,744 meters (9,000 feet), the highest mountain in north east China. ChangBai Mountain TianChi is the deepest lake in China, which was formed after a massive eruption in the year 946 and is about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) wide; technically, this is called a caldera. The origin of the name comes from the altitude - 'The Lake of Heaven'. TianChi is surrounded by 16 mountains, which makes the lake just like a gorgeous emerald among them. The average temperature here is about −24 °C (−11 °F) in January, and 10 °C (50 °F) in July, remaining below freezing for eight months of the year. Great films by Sticker Travel ...

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.

Cyan lakes, wonderful waterfalls and verdant forests ...

The peaceful YùLóng Hé between YangShuo and GuiLin, GuangXi province, south China ...

* University cultural festival; afternoon ... * QianHai and HouHai lakes and hutongs area, central Beijing; early evening ...