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The Qingming Festival

The Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It usually falls around April 5th of the Gregorian calendar. This festival is rich in traditions and customs, which are deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Here are some of the main ones:

1. Tomb Sweeping (扫墓)
Tomb sweeping is the most significant custom of the Qingming Festival. Families visit the graves of their ancestors to pay their respects. They clean the tombstones, remove any weeds or debris around the graves, and offer sacrifices such as flowers, food, and paper money. This act is a way to show filial piety and remember the deceased. People believe that by doing so, they can convey their love and gratitude to their ancestors and ensure that the spirits of the dead are at peace. In modern times, the use of fresh flowers has become more popular instead of paper money to be more environmentally friendly.

2. Offering Sacrifices (祭祀)
In addition to cleaning the tombs, people also offer various sacrifices. Traditional offerings include fruits, pastries, and specially cooked dishes. These are placed in front of the tombstones as a tribute to the ancestors. Incense is also burned, and people bow or kowtow to express their respect and wishes. The act of offering sacrifices is an important part of the cultural heritage, reflecting the Chinese people’s emphasis on family and the continuation of family traditions.

3. Spring Outing (踏青)
As the Qingming Festival usually comes during the spring season when the weather turns warm, the grass turns green, and flowers are in full bloom, it is a perfect time for spring outings. People go outdoors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of nature, take a walk in the countryside, or have picnics. This custom not only allows people to relax and rejuvenate but also symbolizes the connection between humans and nature. It is a way to embrace the new life and vitality that spring brings.

4. Flying Kites (放风筝)
Flying kites is a popular activity during the Qingming Festival. Kites come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, with some even decorated with intricate patterns. People fly kites in open fields, and it is believed that flying a kite can carry away bad luck and illness. In some areas, people would cut the string of the kite when it is flying high, allowing it to drift away with the wind, symbolizing the release of misfortunes.

5. Planting Willow Trees (插柳)
Planting or wearing willow branches is another traditional custom. People often pick fresh willow branches and insert them on the doors or windows of their houses, or wear them in their hair. In Chinese culture, the willow is considered a symbol of vitality and is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and protect the family. This custom may also be related to the agricultural significance of willows, as they are often associated with the arrival of spring and the hope for a good harvest.

6. Eating Qingtuan (吃青团)
Qingtuan is a traditional snack that is commonly eaten during the Qingming Festival, especially in southern China. It is a kind of glutinous rice ball, usually filled with sweet red bean paste or other fillings. The dough is made from glutinous rice flour mixed with the juice of mugwort or other green plants, giving it a green color. Eating Qingtuan is not only a delicious treat but also a way to commemorate the festival and experience traditional cuisine.

These customs of the Qingming Festival not only reflect the Chinese people’s respect for their ancestors and their connection with nature but also play an important role in maintaining and passing on Chinese cultural traditions.

The Zhonghe Festival

The Zhonghe Festival, also known as the Dragon Raising Its Head Festival, falls on the second day of the second lunar month. It is a traditional Chinese festival with a series of unique customs, each carrying rich cultural meanings. Here are some of the main customs:

1. Haircutting (剃头)
One of the most popular customs on the Zhonghe Festival is getting a haircut, often referred to as “剃龙头 (tì lóng tóu)” which literally means “shaving the dragon’s head”. In Chinese culture, the dragon is a symbol of power, auspiciousness, and good luck. People believe that getting a haircut on this day can bring good fortune and prosperity throughout the year. It is especially thought to be beneficial for children, as it is said to help them grow up healthy and strong. Many barbershops are busy on this day, with people lining up to get a fresh haircut.

2. Eating Dragon-related Foods (吃与龙相关的食物)
On the Zhonghe Festival, people often eat foods that are given names related to the dragon to show their respect and hope for the dragon’s blessing. For example, eating dumplings is called “eating dragon’s ears (吃龙耳 - chī lóng ěr)” because of their shape. Spring pancakes are compared to “dragon’s scales (吃龙鳞 - chī lóng lín)” as they are round and thin like scales. Noodles are referred to as “dragon’s whiskers (吃龙须 - chī lóng xū)” due to their long and thin appearance. By consuming these foods, people hope to gain the dragon’s power and protection.

3. Beating the Corners (打囤)
In some rural areas, there is a custom of “beating the corners” or “drawing circles with ashes”. People use wood ashes or lime to draw large circles on the ground, especially in the courtyard or around the granary. These circles are often accompanied by a small indentation in the middle, which is filled with grains such as wheat, corn, or beans. This is believed to symbolize filling the granary and ensuring a bumper harvest in the coming year. It is a way for farmers to express their hopes for a prosperous and abundant agricultural season.

4. Avoiding Needlework (忌针线)
Women traditionally avoid doing needlework on the Zhonghe Festival. It is said that this is to prevent accidentally hurting the dragon’s eyes. Since the dragon is considered a divine and powerful creature, people show their respect by refraining from activities that might cause any harm to it. This custom reflects the deep-rooted respect for the dragon in Chinese traditional culture and the belief in the connection between human actions and the well-being of the mythical creature.

5. Illuminating with Candles (照房梁)
There is also a custom of illuminating the house with candles, especially the beams and corners of the rooms. The saying “二月二,照房梁,蝎子蜈蚣无处藏 (èr yuè èr, zhào fáng liáng, xiē zi wú gōng wú chù cáng)” means that on the second day of the second lunar month, when illuminating the beams, scorpions and centipedes will have nowhere to hide. People believe that the light from the candles can drive away pests and evil spirits, creating a clean and safe living environment. This custom combines the hope for a pest-free home with the symbolic power of light to dispel darkness.

These customs of the Zhonghe Festival not only showcase the unique cultural traditions of the Chinese nation but also carry people’s good wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous life.

The Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival is a significant traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month, marking the end of the Spring Festival celebrations. It is filled with various interesting and meaningful customs, here are some of them:

1. Admiring Lanterns (赏花灯)
One of the most prominent customs of the Lantern Festival is admiring lanterns. Lanterns of all shapes, sizes, and colors are displayed everywhere, from streets and public squares to temples and private homes. They are often made in the shapes of animals, flowers, fruits, and even historical figures. Some lanterns are simple and elegant, while others are elaborately decorated with intricate patterns and colorful lights. In many cities, large-scale lantern exhibitions are held, attracting thousands of visitors. People stroll around, enjoying the beautiful lanterns and taking pictures to capture the festive atmosphere.

2. Guessing Lantern Riddles (猜灯谜)
Lantern riddles are an integral part of the Lantern Festival. Riddles are written on pieces of paper and pasted onto lanterns. People who are interested in guessing the riddles can take a piece of paper, think about the answer, and then go to the organizers to check if they are correct. If they guess right, they usually receive a small prize. This activity not only adds an element of fun and challenge to the festival but also showcases people’s intelligence and cultural knowledge. It has been a popular pastime for centuries, bringing people together and creating a lively and interactive atmosphere.

3. Eating Tangyuan or Yuanxiao (吃汤圆或元宵)
Tangyuan or yuanxiao is a traditional food specifically associated with the Lantern Festival. They are glutinous rice balls, usually filled with sweet fillings such as red bean paste, sesame paste, or peanut paste. In southern China, they are commonly called tangyuan, which are made by rolling glutinous rice flour into small balls and then stuffing them with the fillings. In northern China, yuanxiao is made by dipping the fillings into glutinous rice flour multiple times to form a thicker layer. The round shape of tangyuan and yuanxiao symbolizes reunion and completeness. Eating them during the Lantern Festival is a way to express the hope for family unity and a happy life.

4. Dragon and Lion Dances (舞龙舞狮)
Similar to the Spring Festival, dragon and lion dances are also performed during the Lantern Festival. The dragon dance involves a long dragon, which is usually made of cloth or bamboo, and is manipulated by a team of people. The dragon moves in a rhythmic and majestic way, symbolizing power, strength, and good luck. The lion dance, on the other hand, is performed by two people who mimic the movements of a lion. The lion is believed to be a symbol of bravery and auspiciousness, and its dance is thought to bring good fortune and drive away evil spirits. These performances are accompanied by the beating of drums, gongs, and cymbals, adding to the festive and lively atmosphere.

5. Setting Off Fireworks (放烟花)
Fireworks are an important part of the Lantern Festival celebrations. On the night of the Lantern Festival, colorful fireworks light up the sky, creating a spectacular display. The booming sounds and dazzling lights of the fireworks are believed to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck. Fireworks also add to the joy and excitement of the festival, making it a truly memorable occasion for people of all ages. In some places, there are organized fireworks shows, while in others, families and individuals set off their own fireworks to celebrate.

6. Walking on Stilts and Other Folk Performances (踩高跷和其他民间表演)
In some regions, traditional folk performances such as walking on stilts, yangko dancing, and rowing dry boats are also carried out during the Lantern Festival. People who walk on stilts wear special wooden stilts and perform various acrobatic movements. Yangko dancing is a lively folk dance, with dancers wearing colorful costumes and performing energetic steps. Rowing dry boats is a form of performance where people simulate rowing boats on land. These performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of China and are enjoyed by both locals and tourists.

The Spring Festival

The Spring Festival is a time-honored and significant traditional festival in China, brimming with rich and diverse customs. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Spring Cleaning (扫尘)
Before the Spring Festival, it is a long-standing tradition for Chinese families to thoroughly clean their houses. This is known as “sweeping the dust”. The purpose is not only to remove dirt and filth but also to sweep away any bad luck from the previous year, making way for good fortune in the new year. People clean every corner of their homes, including furniture, windows, and floors, and wash clothes and bedding. It is believed that a clean and tidy home will bring happiness and prosperity.

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China’s Statutory Holidays

China boasts a rich array of statutory holidays. New Year’s Day falls on January 1st, offering a day of rest for all. The Spring Festival, the most significant traditional festival, is celebrated around the Lunar New Year. It features three days of vacation, spanning from New Year’s Eve to the second day of the first lunar month. Qingming Festival, observed on the day of the Lunar Qingming, provides a day off for people to pay their respects to ancestors and enjoy the spring scenery.

International Women’s Day on March 8th grants women half a day of leisure. Arbor Day is marked on March 12th, promoting environmental awareness and tree-planting activities. International Labor Day on May 1st offers a day of rest for the working population. Chinese Youth Day, celebrated on May 4th, gives young people aged 14 and above half a day off to commemorate the spirit of youth.

The Dragon Boat Festival, falling on the day of the Lunar Dragon Boat Festival, comes with a day’s holiday. International Nurses’ Day is celebrated on May 12th to honor the dedication of nurses. Children’s Day on June 1st is a special day for children under 14 years old, who enjoy a day off.

The Anniversary of the Founding of the Communist Party of China is on July 1st. Army Day of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, celebrated on August 1st, provides half a day off for active-duty military personnel. Teachers’ Day is marked on September 10th to express gratitude to educators. The Mid-Autumn Festival, observed on the day of the Lunar Mid-Autumn Festival, offers a day of relaxation. National Day, celebrated on October 1st, features three days of vacation, allowing people to celebrate the nation’s birthday. Journalists’ Day is celebrated on November 8th.

China’s Major Traditional Festivals

China’s traditional festivals are an integral part of its rich cultural heritage. Prominent among them are the Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, Qingming Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival. In addition, various ethnic minorities in China also preserve their unique traditional festivals. For instance, the Dai ethnic group celebrates the vibrant Water-Sprinkling Festival; the Mongolian ethnic group holds the grand Nadam Fair; the Yi ethnic group has the exciting Torch Festival; the Yao ethnic group observes the Danu Festival; the Bai ethnic group participates in the bustling Third Month Fair; the Zhuang ethnic group enjoys the lively Song圩; the Tibetan ethnic group celebrates the Tibetan New Year and Wangguo Festival; and the Miao ethnic group has the distinctive Huatiao Festival.

Origins of China’s New Year’s Day

China’s New Year’s Day traces its roots back over 3,000 years to the era of Zhuanxu, one of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors. The term “New Year’s Day” first emerged in the Book of Jin, which states, “Zhuanxu regarded the first month of the summer as the beginning of the year, and in fact, the first day of the year is the spring of the New Year.” During the Southern and Northern Dynasties, Xiao Ziyun of the Southern Dynasty also wrote in his poem Jie Ya, “The four seasons bring a new New Year’s Day, and the first day of spring is filled with longevity.” These historical records illustrate the long-standing significance of this festival.

The Spring Festival: A Celebration of New Beginnings

The Spring Festival stands as the first and most important traditional festival in the Chinese calendar. Historically, it was known as the “New Year” as, according to the lunar calendar, it marks the first day of the first lunar month, signifying the start of a new year. With a history of over 4,000 years, it is believed to have been initiated by Yu Shun. Legend has it that more than 2,000 years before Christ, Yu Shun ascended the throne and led his subordinates to pay homage to heaven and earth on this day, which was then designated as the beginning of the year.

After the 1911 Revolution, China adopted the Gregorian calendar, and the Lunar New Year was subsequently renamed the “Spring Festival,” typically falling between late January and mid-February of the Gregorian calendar. During this festive period, households adorn their homes with Spring Festival couplets, New Year pictures, and other decorations. The night before the Spring Festival, known as “New Year’s Eve,” is a crucial time for family reunions. Families gather to enjoy a sumptuous “New Year’s Eve dinner,” and many stay up all night, a practice known as “staying up to welcome the New Year.” The following day, people embark on the tradition of “paying New Year’s calls” to relatives and friends, exchanging greetings and well-wishes for a prosperous new year. Traditional cultural activities such as lion dancing, dragon lantern dancing, rowing dry boats, and walking on stilts are also popular during this time.

The Lantern Festival: A Celebration of Light and Reunion

The Lantern Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month, is also known as the Shangyuan Festival, Yuanye, or Dengjie. It marks the first full moon night following the Spring Festival. Legend has it that Emperor Wen of the Han Dynasty (179 - 157 BC) established this festival to commemorate the suppression of the Lü clan rebellion on this day. He would go out to celebrate with the people, and over time, it became a significant festival. Sima Qian included it in the Taichu Calendar, and it reached its peak of popularity during the Sui, Tang, and Song dynasties.

According to the Book of Sui: Records of Music, “Every year in the first lunar month, when all countries came to pay homage, they would stay until the 15th day outside Duanmen and inside Jianguomen. The area would be filled with a grand theater,” and the number of people participating in the singing and dancing would reach tens of thousands, with the festivities lasting from dusk until dawn. Although the customs of the Lantern Festival have evolved over time, it remains a cherished traditional folk festival. People celebrate by eating yuanxiao, glutinous rice balls filled with sweet fillings, symbolizing reunion, and by enjoying the beautiful lantern displays. Lantern exhibitions are held in many cities, showcasing a diverse range of colorful lanterns with unique designs. In the countryside, activities such as setting off fireworks, walking on stilts, performing dragon dances, doing yangko dances, and swinging add to the festive atmosphere.

The Zhonghe Festival: A Tribute to Spring and the Dragon

The Zhonghe Festival, occurring on the second day of the second lunar month, is commonly known as the Dragon Raising Its Head. Coinciding with the Jingzhe solar term, it marks the time when spring returns, and all things come back to life. Insects, snakes, and other creatures emerge from hibernation, and it is said that the dragon also awakens, giving rise to the festival’s name. In ancient times, the dragon was regarded as a symbol of divinity, and people used this occasion to drive away pests.

During the Ming Dynasty, the custom of “smoking insects” was prevalent. People would fry the remaining cakes from the New Year’s Day sacrifice with oil and use the smoke to fumigate beds and kang. In rural areas, they would draw a circle of wood ash around the house and then around the water tank, believing it would attract the dragon back. The food on this day is also associated with the dragon. Eating dumplings is called eating dragon’s ears, eating spring pancakes is called eating dragon’s scales, and eating noodles is called eating dragon’s whiskers. Children often get their hair cut on this day, known as “shaving the dragon’s head,” while women avoid doing needlework to prevent “hurting the dragon’s eyes.” There is also a custom of illuminating the walls with candles, as the saying goes, “On the second day of the second lunar month, illuminate the beams, and scorpions and centipedes will have nowhere to hide.” Although the festival has somewhat faded from memory for many, some customs like eating spring pancakes still persist.

Qingming Festival: A Time of Remembrance and Reunion with Nature

Around April 5th of the Gregorian calendar, the Qingming Festival arrives. Also known as the March Festival in ancient times, it has a history of over 2,000 years. It is not only one of the 24 solar terms but also a significant festival. Originally a day for commemorating ancestors, it has evolved to include activities such as paying respects to the martyrs’ tombs and mourning the heroes who sacrificed for the country.

As the weather warms up during Qingming, the grass turns green, and the trees sprout new leaves. People often take this opportunity to go on outings in the countryside, fly kites, and enjoy the beauty of spring. Thus, the Qingming Festival is also affectionately known as the “Outing Festival,” a time when people can connect with nature and cherish the memories of their loved ones.

The Dragon Boat Festival: A Tribute to Qu Yuan

The fifth day of the fifth lunar month is the Dragon Boat Festival, originally named “Duanwu.” As explained in Taiping Yulan, quoting Fengtu Ji, “In the middle of summer on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, ‘duan’ means the beginning.” Widely regarded as a commemoration of the ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan, this festival has deep historical and cultural significance.

Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet from the State of Chu during the Warring States Period, was deeply distressed by the inability to realize his political ideals and the impending doom of his country. After the State of Qin conquered the State of Chu, he tragically drowned himself in the Miluo River on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. In response, the local people rushed to the river to search for his body by rowing boats. To honor his memory, people have since celebrated the Dragon Boat Festival with various customs. These include wearing sachets, which symbolize Qu Yuan’s noble character and moral integrity; eating zongzi, originally intended to prevent fish from consuming his body but now a staple festival food; and dragon boat racing, representing the efforts to rescue him.

Qixi Festival: The Love Story of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl

On the night of the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, the enchanting Qixi Festival takes place. This is the day when, according to legend, the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl are allowed to meet across the Milky Way. On this special evening, people place melons and fruits in the courtyard, and girls engage in the activity of tying colored threads and threading seven-hole needles. It is said that the one who finishes this task first is considered the most skillful. Due to its association with young girls, the Qixi Festival is also known as the “Girls’ Festival,” a time when they express their wishes for love and happiness.

Zhongyuan Festival: Remembering the Departed

The Zhongyuan Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, is also known as the “Ghost Festival.” It is believed to be the birthday of the Earth Official. Buddhists mark this day by setting up “Yulanpen” and offering food to monks, as well as holding various religious ceremonies such as chanting sessions, water and land Dharma assemblies, and releasing river lanterns. It is thought that the custom of setting up “Yulanpen” in China originated during the reign of Emperor Wu of Liang in the 6th century. Although the practice of setting up “Yulanpen” has become less common in modern times, the tradition of releasing river lanterns still persists in some regions, symbolizing the guiding of the souls of the departed.

Mid-Autumn Festival: A Time for Family Reunion

The 15th day of the eighth lunar month is the Mid-Autumn Festival, a festival deeply associated with family reunion and often referred to as the “Reunion Festival.” Its name, “Mid-Autumn,” stems from its position in the middle of autumn. The festival has its roots in the ancient emperors’ practice of sacrificing to the moon in autumn. Over time, from the Wei, Jin, Tang, and Song dynasties, it evolved into a widespread custom of moon appreciation.

The term “Mid-Autumn” first appeared in the Book of Rites, and it was during the Tang Dynasty that it truly became a national festival. One popular legend links the festival’s formation to the story of “Emperor Ming of Tang’s Dream Tour to the Moon Palace.” In ancient times, on the Mid-Autumn Festival, people would offer exquisite mooncakes to the Moon Goddess. After the sacrifice, the whole family would gather to share the mooncakes, symbolizing unity and togetherness. This tradition of enjoying mooncakes and admiring the full moon continues to this day, making it a cherished time for families to come together.

Double Ninth Festival: A Celebration of Longevity and Filial Piety

The Double Ninth Festival, celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, emerged as a significant festival after the Wei and Jin dynasties. The names “Chongyang” and “Chongjiu” have their origins in the Three Kingdoms period. This festival is associated with five main traditions.

The first is climbing mountains, which is a popular activity during the crisp autumn weather. It allows people to enjoy the beautiful scenery while also promoting physical health. The second is wearing dogwood, which is believed to have the power to repel autumn mosquitoes and ward off pests. The third is drinking chrysanthemum wine and admiring the blooming chrysanthemums. As chrysanthemums are in full bloom in the ninth lunar month, this activity is a delightful way to appreciate the beauty of nature. The fourth is eating Chongyang cakes, which are made from grains and are a symbol of progress and upward mobility, as the word “cake” is homophonic with “high” in Chinese. Finally, the festival is also an occasion for carrying out activities to respect the elderly, a tradition that has been passed down through the ages, emphasizing the importance of filial piety and care for the elderly.

Laba Festival: A Festive Prelude to the New Year

The eighth day of the twelfth lunar month, commonly known as Laba, is a traditional festival with a history of over 1,000 years. It was initially associated with the legend that this day was when Sakyamuni attained enlightenment. In temples, Laba porridge was cooked and offered as a sacrifice to the Buddha. Over time, this custom spread to the general public, symbolizing a bumper harvest of the five grains.

Today, while the original religious significance of Laba porridge has somewhat diminished, it has become a beloved seasonal delicacy. People prepare a variety of ingredients to make the porridge, which is rich in flavor and nutrition. The Laba Festival serves as an important prelude to the Spring Festival, marking the beginning of the festive preparations and filling the air with a sense of anticipation for the coming new year.

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1. Anhui: Hongcun Ancient Village (安徽宏村)

安徽宏村已经有900年历史,凭借其宁静的氛围和别样的建筑一直吸引着游客的注意。宏村的建筑结构十分经典,月亮湖以及独特的风土人情几十年来都是艺术生的灵感源泉。走在石灰岩小巷中,看到农民在田间劳作,加上古香古色的房屋在湖水中的倒影,也足以在你的脑海中展现一幅优美的画卷了。

The 900-year-old village of Hongcun has long drawn in-the-know Chinese visitors, who love its tranquil vibe and distinctive architecture. Its classic structures, Moon Lake and picturesque locals have been an inspiration for art students for decades.Walking the narrow lanes paved with quartzite and seeing farmers working in rice fields, with the reflection of ancient houses in the lake, should provide enough material to get you started on your own visual masterpiece.

2. Anhui: Mount Huangshan (安徽黄山)

黄山是联合国世界文化遗产之一,被誉为“中国最可爱的山”。对于很多中国人来说,黄山是一生中一定要去一次的地方。1863米高的黄山以奇松怪岩、温泉云海闻名于世。

A UNESCO World Heritage Site set amidst “the loveliest mountains of China,” Mount Huangshan, aka Mount Yellow, is a once-in-a-lifetime trek for many Chinese. The 1,863-meter mountain is renowned for its oddly shaped pines, spectacular rock formations, hot springs and seas of misty and melancholy clouds.

3. Fujian: Mount Wuyi (福建武夷山)

武夷山是中国东南的地标,也是联合国世界遗产之一,武夷山是新儒学发展传播之地,自11世纪开始便对东亚地区产生深远影响。如今的游客们很喜欢在九曲溪中的竹筏漂流活动。总共两小时、八公里的行程可以让人饱览武夷山风光。

A major landmark in southeast China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Wuyi was the setting for the development and spread of neo-Confucianism, influential in East Asia since the 11th century. Bamboo raft drifting in the Nine Bend River (lower gorge) is a popular activity among visitors. The two-hour, eight-kilometer trips provide grand views of Mount Wuyi.

4. Fujian: Xiapu Mudflat (福建霞浦)

这里的滩涂是中国摄影爱好者的理想目的地。霞浦虽然只在中国东南海岸线一隅,却拥有全国最大的滩涂,占地面积约40平方公里,海岸线超过400公里。在霞浦如虎纹一般的沙滩上,遍布着渔民的竹竿,浮标和渔网,与当地的自然美景相得益彰。

Yes, a humble mudflat is a favorite destination of Chinese photographers. A small region along the southeast China coastline, Xiapu nevertheless has the largest mudflat in the country, encompassing 40 square kilometers and more than 400 kilometers of coastline. Along its tiger-striped beaches, bamboo structures and poles, buoys and fishing vessels provide human counterpoints to the area s natural beauty.

5. Gansu: Echoing Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake, Dunhuang (甘肃省敦煌市鸣沙山和月牙泉)

鸣沙山由一系列绕着月牙泉的沙丘组成,得名于其独特的形状和音效特点。当风吹过沙丘时,便可听到回声。月牙泉边花盛开,与大漠风光相映成趣。

Echoing Sand Mountain is a series of dunes surrounding Crescent Lake. Named for its distinctive shape and aural characteristics, its echoes can be heard as the wind blows over the dunes. With gardens blooming on its banks, Crescent Lake offers a lovely visual counterpoint to all that sand.

6. Guangdong: Fortress Towers, Kaiping (广东开平碉楼)

开平碉楼大部分是由著名的“海漂”开平人在20世纪早期建造的,他们把在国外看到的伊斯兰、罗马,甚至古希腊建筑风格带回了家乡。这些碉楼在当时都是财富的象征,也能有效的防止偷窃和战乱。开平目前大约还保留着1800座碉楼。

Erected mostly in the early 20th century, the fortress towers at Kaiping were built by famously outbound Kaipingers, who brought home the many architectural styles they saw abroad, including Islamic, Roman and even ancient Greek. The towers were built as a display of wealth, and as a practical way of protecting locals from war and theft. Approximately 1,800 fortress towers still stand amid Kaiping s vast rice fields.

7. Guangxi: Yangshuo (广西阳朔)

想要饱览中国最美山水之一,在阳朔乘一叶竹筏是个好主意。位于中国南部的阳朔,以喀斯特地貌和传统渔村风格闻名。

When the Chinese long for views of the nation s most scenic hills and rivers, they book a bamboo-boat cruise in Yangshuo. The riverside town in southern China is most famous for its karst hills and traditional fishing-village lifestyle.

城区中心适合游客游玩,游客可以租一辆自行车,向乡下出发,寻一片更静谧的地方,竹筏沿着河流嘎吱作响,渔民带着鸬鹚动身,农民则在田野间辛勤劳作,郁郁葱葱的山峰耸立着。

Downtown is touristy. Visitors can rent bikes and head to the countryside to find a more calming scene: bamboo boats chugging along the river, fishermen setting out with cormorants, farmers toiling in fields with lush peaks soaring high above.

8. Guizhou: Huangguoshu Waterfall (贵州黄果树瀑布)

黄果树瀑布是亚洲最大瀑布,落差高达77.8米,宽幅达101米。它是世界上少数可以从多角度欣赏的瀑布之一——上下左右前后观赏俱佳。

The highest waterfall in Asia, majestic Huangguoshu “Yellow Fruit Tree” Waterfall plunges a dramatic 77.8 meters across a 101-meter-wide span. It s one of a handful of mammoth waterfalls in the world that s accessible for viewing from almost any angle – from above, below, front, back, left or right.

9. Hainan: Guanyin Statue (海南南山海上观音像)

从三亚海滩极目远眺,可以看到世界上最大的海上观音像,伫立在南山附近。

Look beyond the beaches of Sanya to find the world s largest Guanyin statue, erected near Nanshan, China s southernmost mountain.

10. Hainan: Yalong Bay (海南省亚龙湾)

海南提供了国内最好的热带风光。亚龙湾则是度假胜地,这里也是海南开发最好、最受欢迎的海滩。

Hainan delivers the best tropical setting in China. Yalong Bay is the pinnacle of the resort getaway. The 7.5-kilometer crescent beach is the most popular and developed stretch of Hainan s southern coastline.

这里可以体验东南亚风情,有多达20多家国际豪华酒店以及大片棕榈树。对于水上运动爱好者来说,这里恍若天堂。

It provides all the quintessential experiences of a Southeast Asian holiday, with as many luxury hotels as palm trees – more than 20 international luxury hotels line the beach of Yalong Bay. The beach is also a haven for water sports warriors, including surfers who sometimes ride uncrowded waves all day.

11. Hebei: Chengde Mountain Resort/Rehe Palace (河北承德避暑山庄/热河行宫)

被列入世界文化遗产名录的承德避暑山庄曾是清代皇帝们消暑度假的夏宫。山庄内仍然保留着精致优雅的皇家园林和一座70米高的宝塔。繁茂的草地、巍峨的群山、宁静的峡谷风光让山庄至今仍不失为避暑胜地。

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mountain resort was once a summer palace used by Qing Dynasty emperors on holiday. Delicate gardens and a 70-meter pagoda remain. Lush grasslands, marvelous mountains and tranquil valleys still make it a cool place to avoid the heat.

12. Heilongjiang: Saint Sophia Cathedral, Harbin (黑龙江省哈尔滨市圣索非亚大教堂)

远东地区最大的东正教教堂,坐落在中国最有俄罗斯风味的城市——哈尔滨。

The largest Orthodox church in East and Southeast Asia stands in China s most Russian-accented city, Harbin.

13. Henan: Longtan Valley (河南龙潭大峡谷)

龙潭大峡谷长12公里,这个U型峡谷因紫红色的石英砂岩条纹而著称,人称“中国第一峡谷。”陡峭险峻的悬崖,郁郁葱葱的植物,参差不齐的山谷吸引着来自全国各地的游客。

This 12-kilometer, U-shaped valley marked by a stripe of purplish red quartz sandstone has earned the name, “The No.1 Valley of Narrow Gorges in China.” Its steep cliffs, lush vegetation and jagged valley attract sightseers from all over China.

14. Hubei: One Incense Pillar, Enshi Canyon (湖北恩施大峡谷一柱香)

这个好似一炷香形状的石柱高150米,但只有4米宽,但这样的形状不但立得住,还经历了几次地震都安然无恙,让人觉得不可思议。当地的传说认为,一炷香是神仙赐予勤劳的土家儿女的,当他们遇到灾难时,可以点燃这柱香,神仙将下凡相助。

This incense stick-shaped structure is 150 meters tall, but only 4 meters wide, making it incredible that it stands at all, let alone that it s survived several major earthquakes.Local legend holds that the pillar is a piece of incense given by a deity to the ingenious Tujia people. The residents could light it in times of disaster and the deity would descend to help.

15. Hubei: Shennongjia (湖北神农架)

上个世纪, 400多名目击者声称在神农架茂密的丛林中见过大脚怪物,不过至今也没有确凿的证据证明野人的存在。

More than 400 people claim to have seen a Bigfoot-like creature among the lush vegetation of Shennongjia over the past century, yet no hard evidence has been found to prove the “yeti s” existence.

这个3200平方公里的自然保护区被认为是“世界中纬度地区唯一保存完好的亚热带森林生态”,拥有超过5000种动植物。这里也是珍惜保护动物金丝猴的故乡。

The 3,200-square-kilometer nature reserve also purports to be “the only well-preserved sub-tropical forest ecosystem in the world s mid-latitudes,” with more than 5,000 species of animals and plants. It s home to snub-nosed or golden monkeys, a rare and protected species in China.

16. Hunan: Fenghuang (湖南凤凰)

对于文艺青年们来说,凤凰实在是处桃花源。每年都有成群背包客前往凤凰古城,领略苗族和土家族的别样风情。很多人来凤凰古城向中国著名作家沈从文致敬,他的作品《边城》将这个有1300年历史的小县城推向了大众视野。

These stilted houses are the dream lodgings of Chinese art and literature lovers. Every year, armies of young backpackers flock to the ancient town of Fenghuang (which literally means “Phoenix”) for its rich Miao and Tujia ethnic culture. Many also come to pay homage to celebrated Chinese writer Shen Congwen, whose novel “Frontier City” put the 1,300-year-old town in limelight.

17. Hunan: Zhangjiajie (湖南张家界)

武陵源巨型石英砂柱被认为是詹姆斯•卡梅隆在奥斯卡获奖电影“阿凡达”中潘多拉行星上浮动山脉的灵感来源。实际上,武陵源地区位于中国南方湖南省的一个城市张家界,是3000多座石柱的所在地。其中最高的石柱高达400多米。

The giant quartz sand pillars of Wulingyuan are said to have been the inspiration for James Cameron s floating mountains on the planet Pandora in his Oscar-winning movie “Avatar.”In reality, the Wulingyuan area in Zhangjiajie, a city in Hunan Province in southern China, is home to more than 3,000 of these stone columns. The tallest pillar in the stone forest stands more than 400 meters high.

18. Inner Mongolia: Singing Sand Bay (内蒙古响沙湾)

响沙湾是一个110米高的沙丘,距内蒙古包头市50公里。响沙湾的沙丘倾斜45度角,那里的风声像是在浅吟低唱。

Singing Sand Bay, aka Yinken Sand Bay, is a 110-meter-high dune, 50 kilometers from Baotou, a major city of Inner Mongolia. Sliding off a 45-degree angle, the wind here is said to sing in soft whispers.

19. Jiangsu: Brahma Palace (江苏梵宫)

风水和佛教对中国都影响极深,这一点在江苏梵宫都能找到踪迹。梵宫处于灵山脚下,临近太湖和88米高的灵山大佛。梵宫是中国风水的缩影,它山环水绕,预示着好运和健康。

Feng shui and Buddhism have deep influences on China. Both can be found at Brahma Palace. Beneath the foot of Little Lingshan Mountain, and near Taihu Lake and the 88-meter-tall Lingshan Giant Budda, the palace epitomizes Chinese feng shui – it s surrounded by mountains and water, portending both good fortune and health.

20. Jiangxi: Mount Lu (江西庐山)

1996年列入联合国世界遗产名录,庐山远非一处景点那么简单。这是中国文化与灵感的象征之一。从古至今,不同时期的1500多位知名画家和诗人都曾以庐山作为灵感的来源。李白和徐志摩就是他们当中的两位。他们创作的诗歌被刻在庐山的峭壁上。

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, Lushan National Park, with its centerpiece of Mount Lu, is more than a tourist attraction. It s a cultural and spiritual symbol of China. Upward of 1,500 famed painters and poets from various periods of ancient and modern China – Li Bai of the Tang Dynasty and Xu Zhimo in 1920s, to name two – have traveled here to be inspired by Lu. Masterpiece poems are engraved in calligraphy on the mountain cliffs.

21. Jiangxi: Wuyuan (江西婺源)

这里是“中国最美乡村”之一。这就是婺源(一个位于中国东部三省交界处的小县城)广为人知的原因。每年春天,五彩缤纷的花朵和悠闲的乡村气息吸引着成千上万的游客。

“One of the most beautiful rural areas in China.”That s how Wuyuan (a small county located at the junction of Anhui, Jiangxi and Zhejiang provinces in eastern China) is best known. Colorful blossoms and a relaxed, countrified pace attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each spring.

22. Jilin: Heaven Lake, Changbai Mountain (吉林长白山天池)

长白山天池的水就像伏特加一样清澈,它像一块玉石,被长白山自然保护区的16座大山环抱。天池平均水深204米,是中国最深的湖。

The vodka-clear Heaven Lake is said to resemble a piece of jade surrounded by 16 peaks of the Changbai Mountain National Reserve. With an average depth of 204 meters, it s the deepest lake in China.

这里也是“怪兽迷”们向往的地区:过去20年,很多游客都声称目击过长达20米的湖中生物。

This is also a hot spot for water monster fans – in the last two decades China travelers have reported accounts of a lake creature as long as 20 meters.

23. Liaoning: Benxi Water Cave (辽宁本溪水洞)

五彩斑斓的本溪水洞形成于500万年前。如今,它的主体部分分为“旱洞”和“水洞”。水洞中林立着石笋和钟乳石,笼罩在瑰丽的绿、黄、红色中,千姿百态、光怪陆离。水洞中还有世界最长的地下河,长达5.8公里

Exploding with color, the Benxi Water Cave was formed more than five million years ago. Today its main sections are a “drought cave” and a “water cave.” A dramatic array of stalagmites and stalactites are covered in vibrant greens, yellows and reds. The water cave contains the world s longest underground river at 5.8 kilometers.

24. Liaoning: Golden Pebble Beach National Resort, Dalian (辽宁金石滩)

距离大连市中心仅30公里的金石滩,古老的岩层被时间和自然力量变成了奇形怪状的动物复制品——骆驼,老虎,甚至恐龙。最大的岩石高达40米,被比喻为“恐龙探海”。

Along 30 kilometers of Golden Pebble Beach (it s also known as the Jinshitan Scenic Area) just outside downtown Dalian, ancient rock formations have been twisted by time and elements into bizarre replicas of animals – camels, monkeys, tigers, even dinosaurs.The largest is a 40-meter-high rock named after a “dinosaur who explores the sea.”

25. Ningxia: Sand Lake (宁夏沙湖)

每年4月至5月,9月至10月,100多万只各种鸟类会迁徙到这片湿地上。其他时候,大约200多种鸟类栖息于此,其中还有很多保护动物。

More than 1 million migrating birds of various species stop over at this wetland in Ningxia twice a year (April-May, September-October). The rest of the year, around 200 species of birds call the wetlands home, including a large number of protected species.

在这片80平方公里广阔区域内,河流,沙漠,芦苇相互交织,形成了一个特殊的地理现象叫做“沙湖”。

Desert, water and reed mashes blend in this 80-square-kilometer area, which forms a unique geographic phenomenon called sand lake (“sha hu” in Mandarin).

26. Qinghai: Qinghai Lake (青海省青海湖)

这是中国最大的内陆咸水湖,每年六七月景色最佳,是位于中国大西北的青海省最迷人的景点之一。青海湖位于海平面3205米以上,距离最近的交通枢纽西宁有3小时的车程。除了每年夏季一群风风火火的自行车手会聚集到这里参加环青海湖国际公路自行车赛以外,鲜有游人跑到这里来欣赏这油画般的美景。

China s largest inland saltwater lake. This view is one of the great draws of Qinghai Province in China s far northwest every June and July. The lake sits 3,205 meters above sea level and is a three-hour bus ride from the nearest traffic hub of Xining. Few tourists make it to this part of China to enjoy this oil painting of a scene, not counting packs of mad cyclists who come for Tour de Qinghai Lake International Cycling Race every summer.

27. Shaanxi: Xi an City Wall (陕西西安城墙)

除了举世闻名的万里长城,始建于2000多年前西安城墙也代表着这个文明古国全盛时期劳动人民的智慧和力量。现存的部分城墙建于1370年(明朝),城墙长13.7公里,高12米,宽15-18米不等,城墙恰好环抱西安市区。骑上自行车,沿城墙跑上三四个小时,即可一睹这座伟大古城的风采。

In addition to the world-renowned Great Wall, the city wall belonging to Xi an, first constructed more than 2,000 years ago, also represents the power and wisdom of the Middle Kingdom in its ancient heyday. What exists of the wall today are remains from 1370, when during the Ming Dynasty the fortification was 13.7 kilometers long, 12 meters high and between 15 to 18 meters wide. It now surrounds downtown Xi an. Spend three or four hours biking along the wall and you ll get great views of China s old capital city.

28. Shandong: Trestle Bridge, Qingdao (山东青岛栈桥)

横卧于黄海之上的青岛栈桥和青岛市一样古老,栈桥自1892年建立以来一直是青岛市的标志,据说当时清朝重臣李鸿章命人修建。漫步于440米长的栈桥上,可以尽情享受迎面而来的海风。栈桥尽头的回澜阁则是历史与文化的交融。

As old as the city of Qingdao, the Trestle Bridge has sat astride the Yellow Sea since 1892. First built for the reception of Li Hongzhang (李鸿章), a prominent statesman during the Qing Dynasty, Trestle Bridge has since become a symbol of the city. Walking the 440-meter-long bridge is a great way to enjoy breezes coming off the sea. At one end is Huilange Pagoda, a classic beauty that hosts historic and cultural exhibits throughout the year.

29. Shanxi: Hukou Waterfall (山西壶口瀑布)

在有些人看来,壶口瀑布是中国最壮观的瀑布。壶口瀑布是黄河最大的瀑布,也是中国第二大瀑布,同样还是50元人民币的背后图案。

According to some, the most magnificent waterfall in the country. As the largest waterfall on the Yellow River, and second largest in China, Hukou Waterfall is known around the country for once gracing the RMB 50 note.

壶口瀑布位于山西省和陕西省交界,高20米,宽达30米。5月至10月是观赏的最佳时间,水大而稳,有时能看到洪流在50米的落差中翻腾倾涌的壮观景象。

At 20 meters high and 30 meters wide, the fall is located on the border of Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces. The May to October flood season is the best time to visit, when water flow and velocity increase, sometime swelling the fall into a 50-meter-wide spectacular scene.

30. Shanxi: Yungang Grottoes (山西云冈石窟)

云冈石窟历经1500余年,是重要的佛教地标。它拥有252个石窟和51000多尊佛像,大多数都是公元5-6世纪期间北魏时期的作品。这些砂岩雕像,最高17米,最小两厘米,结合了多种风格的佛教艺术,包括中国、犍陀罗和波斯等国,石窟16到20是保存最完好的5个洞穴。他们为五名北魏皇帝的佛像提供了庇护。

This 1,500-year-old site is an important Buddhist landmark. It houses 252 caves and more than 51,000 Buddha statues, most carved between the fifth and sixth century during the North Wei Dynasty. The sandstone statues – the tallest stands 17 meters, the tiniest two centimeters – combine multiple styles of Buddhist art, including Chinese, Gandhara and Persian. Grottoes 16 through 20 are the five best preserved caves. They shelter five Buddhas modeled after five Wei emperors.

31. Sichuan: Hailuogou Glacier National Park (四川海螺沟)

海螺沟位于四川省贡嘎山东坡。传说中,只有那些幸运儿才能享受这里的美景。

Legend holds that only the lucky will be treated to this view. Also known as “Conch Gully,” Hailuogou park sits at the eastern foot of Gonggar Mountain in southwest China s Sichuan province.

相传,海螺沟是为纪念一位得道藏僧,他一吹海螺便引来林中禽鸟动物围着石穴听他念经。为了纪念这位僧人,他住过的岩穴就被称作“海螺沟”。

According to legend, the gully was a wasteland until a renowned Tibetan monk played his treasured conch there and attracted many animals, who became so enchanted with the place that they took up residence. To memorialize the monk and his conch, the gully ever after became known as Conch Gully.

一年四季,我们都可以看到这个壮丽的冰川,覆盖森林、悬崖、山峰和峡谷。它在清晨的阳光下最为美丽。冰川下面分布着10多个温泉,3个向公众开放,其中 一个海拔2600米。

The magnificent glacier, which drives through woodlands, cliffs, peaks and gullies, is accessible all year round. It appears at its best in early morning sunshine. More than 10 hot springs are spread beneath the glacier. Two are open to the public, including one at an elevation of 2,600 meters.

32. Sichuan: Jiuzhaigou (四川九寨沟)

九寨沟遍布高山湖泊和大小瀑布,而这片广阔的湖水是九寨沟的珍宝明珠。

This massive lake is the crown jewel of Jiuzhaigou, a region full of stunning alpine lakes and waterfalls.

这里的湖水一年四季变幻着斑斓色彩,那色彩来自周围山林的倒影,也来自浅浅湖底的水藻和钙化的岩石。这里的景色秋天最美,湖面宛如打翻了的颜料盘,五光十色。

The lake is filled with incredible water that changes color throughout the day and year. The color comes from the reflection of the surrounding landscape, as well as algae and calcified rocks at the bottom of the shallow lake. Autumn is the best time to visit, when the lake surface appears as a multihued painter s palette.

33. Tibet: Potala Palace (西藏布达拉宫)

这座九层建筑位于海拔3700米以上,是世界上最高的宫殿。

This nine-story attraction stands 3,700 meters above sea level, making it the highest palace on the planet.

34. Xinjiang: Lake Karakul (新疆喀拉库勒湖)

走过被称为世界上最危险的喀喇昆仑公路,才能目睹这番景色。尽管沿途有许多“山体滑坡”标识,也没能阻挡游客们的脚步。屹立于海拔3600上的帕米尔高原,冰川湖像一面巨大的镜子,倒映着群山。最佳观景时间为5-10月份。

This stunning view is the reward after a thrilling ride over one of the world s most dangerous roads, Karakoram Highway. The many “landslide site” signposts along the way haven t stopped devoted travelers. Standing 3,600 meters above sea level on the Pamir Plateau, the glacier lake s water reflects the surrounding mountains like a huge mirror. Best time to go is May to October.

35. Xinjiang: Nalati Grassland (新疆那拉提草原)

这种群山草甸在中国西北很独特,相传成吉思汗的军队当时也被它的景色所折服,所以称呼此地为“那拉提”(“那拉提”在蒙古语中是“太阳升起的地方”的意思)。草原是体验哈萨克风情的好地方。当地人仍然流行传统体育活动,住蒙古包,为家庭聚餐放鹰打猎。

This sub-alpine meadow is so distinct in northwest China that, according to legend, one of Genghis Khan s troops was so awed by its color that he gave the area the name “Nalati” (meaning “place where the sun emerges” in Mongolian). The prairie is a great place to experience Kazak customs. Locals still play traditional sports, live in yurts and raise falcons to hunt for the family dinners.

36. Yunnan: Three Pagodas, Dali (云南省大理崇圣寺三塔)

这些佛塔是云南古镇大理的重要地标。主塔初建于9世纪中叶,高69米,共16级,是为祈祷缓解水患而修建,是唐代的“摩天大厦”,仍为中国现存的最高佛塔。每层都装饰有佛像。

These Buddhist towers are the chief landmark of Dali, an ancient town in China s southwest Yunnan Province. The main tower was first built in mid-ninth century in the hope to easing regular flooding. At 69 meters and 16 stories high, it was a “skyscraper” for the Tang Dynasty and is still the tallest pagoda in China. Each of it tiers is decorated with Buddha statues.

其他两座南、北小塔形高42米,建于10世纪。三塔呈等边三角形排列,各个角度都能满足摄影爱好者的需求。

The other two identical towers stand 42 meters and were erected almost a century later. The three holy structures form an equilateral triangle. Shutterbugs can get great shots from many different angles.

37. Yunnan: Pudacuo National Park, Shangri-la (云南香格里拉普达措国家公园)

普拉措是中国第一个符合世界自然保护联盟标准的国家公园。中国超过20%的植物物种,约三分之一的哺乳动物和鸟类自然分布于这片湿地。摄影师尤其偏爱这片湿地多类型的兰花和濒临绝种的黑颈鹤。公园中碧塔海的双唇鱼,非常古老,250万年前就存在了。

Pudacuo is the first national park in China to meet the criteria set by The World Conservation Union, a major global environmental organization. More than 20% of the country s plant species and around one-third of its mammal and bird species call this wetland plateau home. Photographers especially love the area s many types of orchids and China s highly endangered black-necked cranes. In Bita Lake in the park, the Bita double-lip fish is an ancient fish dating back 2.5 million years.

38. Zhejiang: Nanxi River (浙江楠溪江)

楠溪江周边群山、海岸古民居林立,毫无争议地成为中国古典画和水墨画的摇篮。游客乘竹筏沿楠溪江漂流而下,可以欣赏到当地人沿河洗衣服,用鸬鹚捕鱼的渔民。

With its mountain backdrop and shores lined with ancient houses, the Nanxi River inevitably became the cradle of classic Chinese water-and-ink painting. By drifting down the Nanxi River on a bamboo craft, travelers can enjoy views of locals doing laundry along the river and fishermen employing traditional methods of using cormorants to catch fish.

39. Zhejiang: Thousand Island Lake (浙江千岛湖)

户外活动是这里的一大亮点——高速艇,划水,动物主题跳岛游,爬山。此外,游客还能享受到超赞的海鲜。从经济型小屋到五星级酒店,住宿的选择也很多样。

Outdoors activities are the draw of this ginormous recreation and resort area – speedboating, water skiing, animal-themed island-hopping, mountain climbing. Travelers can also find excellent seafood and everything from budget cabins to five-star hotels.

40. Zhejiang: Yunhe Rice Terrace (浙江云和梯田)

“云和”字面意思为“平和的云彩”,云和梯田距今已有1000多年历史。沿山而建,海拔跨度为200米到1400米,最多有700多层。阴雨天是最棒的游览时间,河水中飘起的层层雾气飘过梯田,创造了田园般的梦境。

Literally meaning “peaceful clouds,” Yunhe and its surrounding rice terraces have been home to farmers for at least 1,000 years. Winding in a maze up mountainsides from 200 to 1,400 meters, individual terraces can be constructed of as many as 700 layers. Rainy days are the best time to visit, when steam from evaporating river water floats through the terraces, creating a kind of agricultural dreamscape.

Scenic Spot Introduction

Zhengding Ancient City is a national 5A-level tourist attraction with a history of over 2,500 years, often referred to as the “Magnificent Town of the North.” This place has preserved a wealth of precious historical and cultural heritage, including Buddhist temples, ancient towers, and traditional dwellings, making it one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in North China.

The construction of Zhengding Ancient City began during the Spring and Autumn Period and developed through various dynasties such as the Warring States, Qin and Han, Sui and Tang, reaching its peak during the Song Dynasty. The ancient city wall, with a perimeter of 12 kilometers, was rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty using a unique structure of “earth inside and bricks outside.” Within the city, there are 9 key cultural relics under national protection, including Longxing Temple and Tianning Temple Tower, earning it the reputation of “Nine Towers, Four Towers, Eight Temples, and Twenty-Four Golden Archways.”

As a famous historical and cultural city in China, Zhengding Ancient City has witnessed numerous significant historical events. It is the hometown of the famous Three Kingdoms general Zhao Yun and one of the birthplaces of Yuan qu (a form of traditional Chinese opera). The ancient city’s architecture combines the grandeur of northern architecture with the delicacy of Jiangnan gardens, forming a unique architectural style. In recent years, the local government has invested heavily in the preservation and restoration of the ancient city, bringing new life to this millennium-old town.

The ancient city is not only a living fossil of history and culture but also an important sample for studying ancient Chinese city planning. Its “crossroads” layout reflects the wisdom of traditional Chinese city design, while the well-preserved ancient building complex provides valuable physical materials for studying ancient Chinese architectural art.

Must-Visit Attractions

  1. Longxing Temple

    • The largest existing Liao Dynasty temple in China
    • Bronze statue of Sakyamuni Buddha
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes
  2. Rongguo Mansion

    • The architectural prototype of “Dream of the Red Mansions”
    • The mansion of the Jia family in the Qing Dynasty
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
  3. Tianning Temple Tower

    • Thousand-year-old brick carving art
    • One of the eight major scenic spots in Zhengding
    • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes
  4. Linji Temple

    • Ancestral home of Zen Buddhism
    • Ancient architectural complex
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route
    Day 1:

    • Morning: Longxing Temple
    • Afternoon: Rongguo Mansion, Tianning Temple Tower

    Day 2:

    • Morning: Linji Temple
    • Afternoon: Ancient City Pedestrian Street, other temples
  2. Visiting Schedule

    • It is recommended to visit temples in the morning
    • Avoid peak hours during holidays
    • Reserve time to experience life in the ancient city
  3. Practical Tips

    • It is recommended to hire a professional guide for explanation
    • Prepare comfortable walking shoes
    • Pay attention to temple etiquette

Transportation Guide

  • High-speed rail: Approximately 2 hours from Beijing Station to Zhengding Station
  • Self-drive: Take the Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway and exit at Zhengding
  • City transportation: Shijiazhuang public buses can reach directly
  • Within the scenic area: Walk or take an electric car to tour
  1. Zhengding Ancient City Snack Street
  2. Zhengding Donkey Meat Fire Burnt Pancakes
  3. Hebei Special Noodles
  4. Traditional Pastry Shop

Special Reminders

  1. Smoking and photography are prohibited inside temples
  2. Pay attention to protecting cultural relics and historic sites
  3. Some attractions require advance reservations
  4. It is recommended to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds
  5. Prepare cash to purchase snacks
  6. Obey the etiquette of religious places
  7. It is recommended to plan your route ahead of time
  8. Parking spaces are limited in the ancient city.

Spot Introduction

Mount Jiuhua, one of the Four Famous Buddhist Mountains in China, is renowned as the ashram of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. This sacred mountain, standing at an elevation of 1,342 meters, not only boasts breathtaking natural landscapes but also carries a profound Buddhist cultural heritage. Derived from Li Bai’s poem “Miao You Fen Er Qi, Ling Shan Kai Jiu Hua,” Mount Jiuhua got its name. Its granite-composed landscape features 99 unique peaks, 18 waterfalls, and 14 unique rock formations.

As the ashram of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, Mount Jiuhua has been a Buddhist holy site since the Tang Dynasty. Currently, there are 99 temples, over 1,500 Buddhist statues, and more than 2,000 cultural relics. Among them, Huacheng Temple, the founding temple of Mount Jiuhua, was built in the Eastern Jin Dynasty and has a history of over 1,600 years. The Baisui Palace houses the mummified body of the Ming Dynasty’s Wu Xia Chan Master, which remains preserved after more than 400 years, truly a marvel.

Mount Jiuhua’s Buddhist culture is distinct, and every lunar July 30th, the birthday of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, grand temple fair activities are held. The monks and nuns on the mountain lead a secluded life, surrounded by the sounds of morning and evening bells and chanting, creating a unique religious atmosphere.

In terms of natural landscapes, Mount Jiuhua is best known for its “Ten Scenic Spots of Jiuhua.” Tiantai Peak, the highest point of Mount Jiuhua, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and rolling clouds from its summit. The Huatai Scenic Area is famous for its unusual pine trees and unique rock formations, especially the breathtaking azalea flowers in spring. The Mingyuan Bamboo Sea is a serene and elegant forest of green bamboo, while the Longchi Flying Waterfall is majestic and thunderous.

Mount Jiuhua is also an important ecological reserve with a forest coverage rate of over 90%, rich in animal and plant resources. Rare animals like clouded leopards and macaques inhabit the area, and ancient and famous trees like ginkgo and Chinese yew grow here, making it a significant base for biodiversity research.

Spot Introduction

In recent years, Jiuhua Mountain has continuously improved its tourist facilities, constructing cableways and plank roads to facilitate visitors’ exploration. Simultaneously, it has emphasized the preservation of traditional culture by regularly hosting events like Buddhist cultural festivals and meditation experiences, allowing visitors to appreciate the scenic beauty while also feeling the charm of Buddhist culture.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Dizang Hall
  • Dizang Bodhisattva’s Buddhist rites
  • Buddhist holy land
  • Suggested visiting time: 120 minutes
  1. Baisui Palace
  • Statue of Jin Dizang
  • Ancient architectural complex
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes
  1. Huacheng Temple
  • Millennium-old temple
  • Buddhist artifacts
  • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
  1. Tiantai Peak
  • Scenic viewpoint
  • Buddhist holy relics
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route
  • Day 1: Dizang Hall - Baisui Palace
  • Day 2: Huacheng Temple - Tiantai Peak
  • Suggested accommodation: Temple lodging
  1. Visiting Schedule
  • Morning: Attend morning sutras
  • Afternoon: Explore the temples
  • Evening: Enjoy the sunset
  1. Practical Tips
  • Vegetarian diet preferred
  • Dress appropriately
  • Respect beliefs

Transportation Guide

  • Airplane: Chizhou Jiuhua Mountain Airport
  • Train: Chizhou Station
  • Bus: Jiuhua Mountain Passenger Station
  • Cableway: Tiantai Cableway, Baisui Palace Cableway
  1. Vegetarian cuisine
  2. Jiuhua Fermented Bean Curd
  3. Qingyang Noodle
  4. Mountain wild vegetables

Special Reminders

  1. Respect beliefs
  2. Dress appropriately
  3. No smoking
  4. Bring hiking poles
  5. Wear non-slip footwear
  6. Act within your limits
  7. Check the weather
  8. Book accommodations ahead of time.

Spot Introduction

Qianshan Scenic Area is a famous Taoist mountain renowned for its unique peaks, rocks, ancient temples, and Taoist culture. With continuous mountain ranges and numerous temples, it is a comprehensive scenic spot integrating natural beauty and cultural landscapes.

Qianshan was formed during the Cretaceous period about 120 million years ago and belongs to the extension of Changbai Mountain. It is named “Qianshan” because it has 999 peaks. The total area of the scenic spot is 125 square kilometers, and the highest peak, Xianren Tai, has an elevation of 708.3 meters. The unique granite landform creates a landscape feature where “every peak is unique, every rock is steep, and every temple is ancient.”

As the most representative mountain scenic area in Northeast China, Qianshan is rich in cultural heritage. Since the Sui and Tang dynasties, it has been a Taoist holy land. There are more than 20 existing ancient building complexes, among which Wuliang Guan, Longquan Temple, and Da’an Temple are all national key cultural relics protection units. The scenic area also preserves a large number of cultural relics such as cliff inscriptions and steles, witnessing the long history and culture of Qianshan.

The natural landscape of Qianshan has unique characteristics, known for its “four wonders”: exotic pines, strange rocks, sea of clouds, and hot springs. The vegetation coverage in the scenic area is over 95%, with more than 1,200 species of plants, including many rare species. The scenery varies in four seasons: spring brings blooming mountain flowers, summer offers shady green trees, autumn paints the forest in layers of color, and winter covers everything in a silver blanket.

In recent years, Qianshan Scenic Area has continuously improved its tourism facilities, developed infrastructure such as hiking trails, cable cars, and viewing platforms, and launched special tourism projects such as cultural experience and ecological science popularization.

Spot Introduction

Qianshan Mountain, as a national 5A-level tourist attraction, has become a benchmark for tourism in Liaoning, attracting millions of tourists every year.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Dafo Temple Scenic Area

    • Ancient temple with a history of thousands of years
    • Giant Maitreya Buddha
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes
  2. Doumu Palace

    • Taoist holy place
    • Ancient building complex
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
  3. Shengshang Stone

    • Iconic landmark of Qianshan Mountain
    • Viewing platform
    • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes
  4. Wanfo Cave

    • Stone carving art
    • Buddhist statues
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route
    Day 1:

    • Morning: Dafo Temple Scenic Area
    • Afternoon: Doumu Palace, Shengshang Stone

    Day 2:

    • Morning: Wanfo Cave
    • Afternoon: Free exploration of other attractions
  2. Touring Schedule Arrangement

    • Hike in the morning to watch the sunrise
    • Avoid hiking at noon
    • Examine key attractions closely
  3. Practical Tips

    • Wear comfortable hiking shoes
    • Bring enough drinking water
    • Prepare sun protection items

Transportation Guide

  • Train: Take a shuttle bus from Anshan Station
  • Bus: Take Bus 9 or 17
  • Self-drive: Navigate to Qianshan Scenic Area
  • Dedicated tourist line: Direct access from various locations
  1. Qianshan Vegetarian Cuisine
  2. Wild Mountain Vegetable Delicacies
  3. Farmhouse Specialties
  4. Snack Street in the Scenic Area

Special Reminders

  1. There are many steps, so do what you can
  2. The scenic area is large, so plan accordingly
  3. Bring proper hiking gear
  4. Pay attention to sun protection and antiskid measures
  5. Respect religious sites
  6. Suggest visiting during off-peak hours
  7. Prepare snacks for replenishment
  8. Pay attention to weather changes.

Scenic Spot Introduction

West Lake, located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, is one of the top ten scenic spots in China and a World Cultural Heritage site. Covering an area of 6.39 square kilometers, it is surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces the city on one side, earning the reputation of “Paradise on Earth” since ancient times. Here, one can find not only breathtaking natural beauty but also a deep cultural heritage.

The most famous attractions of West Lake are the “Ten Scenes of West Lake”: Spring Dawn at Su Causeway, Lotus in the Breeze at Curved Courtyard, Autumn Moon on the Calm Lake, Lingering Snow on the Broken Bridge, Fish Viewing at the Flower Harbor, Orioles Singing in the Willows, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon, Twin Peaks Piercing the Clouds, Leifeng Pagoda in the Evening Sun, and Evening Bell at Nanping Hill. Each scene embodies a unique poetic charm. Among them, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon is the iconic landscape of West Lake, where three stone towers reflect in the lake, complementing the bright moon; Broken Bridge with Lingering Snow is not only an excellent location to view the panorama of West Lake but also famous for the legend of “White Snake”; Leifeng Pagoda, built in the Five Dynasties period, is an important witness to West Lake culture.

For thousands of years, literary figures such as Bai Juyi and Su Dongpo have left many immortal poems here, and the reputation of “comparing West Lake to Xi Shi” has been widely circulated. West Lake is not only a natural landscape but also a model of Chinese garden art, perfectly combining natural beauty with humanistic elegance.

Must-visit Attractions

  1. Three Pools Mirroring the Moon

    • Iconic landscape of West Lake, located on an island in the lake
    • Three stone towers reflect in the lake, complementing the moon
    • Historical buildings such as the Imperial Tea Garden and Dragon King Temple are located on the island
    • Take a boat tour to experience the beauty of “Lotus in the Breeze at Curved Courtyard”
    • Recommended visiting time: 60 minutes, best at dusk
  2. Broken Bridge with Lingering Snow

    • Located at the eastern end of Bai Causeway, where the legend of “White Snake” took place
    • The scenery after snowfall in winter is the most beautiful.

景点介绍

The Introduction of Scenic Spots

形成”断桥”奇观

  • 是观赏西湖全景的绝佳位置
  • 春季可赏杨柳依依,夏可观荷花
  • 建议游览时间:30分钟,建议清晨或傍晚前往

Forming the spectacular “Broken Bridge”

  • It is an excellent location to view the panoramic view of the West Lake
  • Enjoy the willows in spring and lotuses in summer
  • Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes, recommended to visit in the early morning or evening
  1. 雷峰塔
  • 始建于五代,现为八角五层砖木结构宝塔
  • 塔内设有电梯,可登顶俯瞰西湖全景
  • 展示”白蛇传”等民间传说文化
  • 夕阳西下时形成”雷峰夕照”美景
  • 建议游览时间:90分钟,含登塔时间
  1. Leifeng Pagoda
  • Originally built in the Five Dynasties period, it is now an octagonal five-story brick-wood structure pagoda
  • There is an elevator inside the tower, allowing visitors to reach the top and overlook the panoramic view of the West Lake
  • Exhibits folk culture such as “Legend of the White Snake”
  • Forms a beautiful scenery of “Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset” when the sun sets
  • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes, including the time to climb the tower
  1. 苏堤春晓
  • 全长2.8公里,横跨西湖
  • 六桥横跨五堤,柳树夹道
  • 春季桃花烂漫,最适合漫步
  • 沿途设有多个观景平台
  • 建议游览时间:120分钟,建议清晨游览
  1. Spring Dawn at Su Causeway
  • With a total length of 2.8 kilometers, it spans the West Lake
  • Six bridges cross over five causeways, lined with willows
  • The peach blossoms are in full bloom in spring, making it perfect for a stroll
  • There are multiple viewing platforms along the way
  • Suggested visiting time: 120 minutes, recommended for early morning visits
  1. 花港观鱼
  • 园内红鱼池养殖锦鲤,景色优美
  • 春季牡丹盛开,是赏花胜地
  • 园林布局精巧,体现江南园林特色
  • 建议游览时间:60分钟
  1. Fish Viewing at Huagang
  • The red fish pond in the park is stocked with Koi fish, providing a beautiful scenery
  • Peonies are in full bloom in spring, making it a great place to admire flowers
  • The exquisite layout of the garden reflects the characteristics of Jiangnan gardens
  • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
  1. 岳王庙
  • 纪念南宋抗金名将岳飞的祠庙
  • 可参观岳飞生平事迹展览
  • 建筑古朴庄严,气势恢宏
  • 建议游览时间:45分钟
  1. Yue Fei Temple
  • A temple dedicated to the memory of Yue Fei, a famous general who resisted the Jin dynasty during the Southern Song Dynasty
  • Visitors can view exhibitions on Yue Fei’s life and deeds
  • The architecture is simple, solemn, and magnificent
  • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes

参观建议

Visiting Suggestions

  1. 最佳游览路线
  • 第一天上午:断桥残雪→白堤→苏堤春晓→花港观鱼
  • 第一天下午:岳王庙→雷峰塔(看夕阳)
  • 第二天上午:乘船游湖→三潭印月
  • 第二天下午:漫步西湖边,体验湖畔生活
  • 建议傍晚在湖边漫步,感受”西湖夜景”
  1. Best Touring Route
  • First day morning: Broken Bridge with Lingering Snow → Bai Causeway → Spring Dawn at Su Causeway → Fish Viewing at Huagang
  • First day afternoon: Yue Fei Temple → Leifeng Pagoda (to watch the sunset)
  • Second day morning: Take a boat tour on the lake → Three Pools Mirroring the Moon
  • Second day afternoon: Stroll along the West Lake and experience lakeside life
  • It is recommended to take a walk along the lake in the evening to enjoy the “night view of the West Lake”
  1. 参观时间安排
  • 清晨5-7点:观赏”苏堤春晓”,避开游客
  • 上午9-11点:游览主要景点
  • 下午3-5点:乘船游湖最舒适
  • 傍晚:欣赏”雷峰夕照”
  • 夜晚:可观赏音乐喷泉表演
  1. Visiting Schedule
  • 5-7 am: Enjoy “Spring Dawn at Su Causeway” to avoid crowds
  • 9-11 am: Visit major attractions
  • 3-5 pm: Take a comfortable boat tour on the lake
  • Evening: Appreciate “Leifeng Pagoda at Sunset”
  • Night: Enjoy the music fountain performance
  1. 实用贴士
  • 交通建议:景区内可租借自行车环湖
  • 摄影建议:早晚光线最佳,雾天别有韵味
  • 游船选择:可选择包船或拼船
  • 体力分配:景区较大。
  1. Practical Tips
  • Transportation suggestion: Bicycles can be rented within the scenic area for a lakeside ride
  • Photography suggestion: The light is best in the morning and evening, and foggy days have a unique charm
  • Boat selection: You can choose to charter a boat or share a boat
  • Physical distribution: The scenic area is relatively large.

景点介绍

交通指南

  1. 外部交通

    • 飞机:Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport → City Center (about 45 minutes)
    • 高铁:Hangzhou East Railway Station → West Lake (about 30 minutes by metro)
    • 汽车:Direct buses are available from major bus stations.
    • 自驾:Parking is recommended at parking lots around the scenic area.
  2. 景区内交通

    • 地铁:Line 1 can reach Hubin, Longxiang Bridge, and other stations.
    • 公交:Tour Bus 1, Tour Bus 2, and Tour Bus 3 operate around the lake.
    • 游船:Boats are available at multiple docks for sightseeing.
    • 自行车:Well-developed bicycle paths around the lake.

周边美食推荐

  1. Longjing Shrimp

    • A famous dish in Hangzhou, known for its fresh and tender taste.
    • Recommended at established restaurants like Lou Wai Lou and Wai Po Jia.
    • Per capita consumption: 100-150 yuan.
  2. West Lake Vinegar Fish

    • A traditional dish, sweet and sour.
    • Recommended at Zhiweiguan and Green Tea Restaurant.
    • Per capita consumption: 80-120 yuan.
  3. Beggar’s Chicken

    • A traditional Hangzhou cuisine, known for its delicious meat.
    • Recommended at old shops like Shan Wai Shan.
    • Per capita consumption: 60-100 yuan.
  4. Osmanthus Glutinous Rice Lotus Root

    • A traditional Hangzhou dessert.
    • Recommended at Kuiyuan Guan and Zhiweiguan.
    • Price: 20-40 yuan per serving.

特别提醒

  1. 游览建议

    • The scenic area is free, but some attractions require tickets.
    • As there are more visitors during holidays, it is recommended to visit during off-peak hours.
    • The ground is slippery when wet, so please be careful.
    • Prepare small change for buying snacks and souvenirs.
  2. 摄影建议

    • The broken bridge and remaining snow are most beautiful in the morning mist.
    • Leifeng Pagoda is best photographed at sunset.
    • The moonlit night at Santan Yinyue is optimal.
    • It is recommended to bring a wide-angle lens.
  3. 天气应对

    • Sun protection is essential in spring and summer.
    • Carry rain gear with you.
    • Wear comfortable and slip-resistant shoes.
    • It is advisable to check the weather forecast.
  4. 文明游览

    • Protect the environment and do not litter.
    • Take care of flowers, plants, and trees.
    • Do not feed the animals in the lake.
    • Maintain quietness in the scenic area.
  5. 其他提示

    • The facilities in the scenic area are well-developed.
    • Coin-operated lockers are available.
    • It is recommended to bring drinking water.
    • Prepare a moderate amount of cash.
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