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Today I am going to introduce you about Beilin museum.Xi'an Beilin Museum, known as the "Forest of Steles", is a cultural treasure trove with a long history . Located at No.15 Sanxue Street, Beilin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, it was first established in 1087 during the Northern Song Dynasty . Its origin can be traced back to the "Stele of Filial Piety" and the "Kaicheng Stone Classics" in the Tang Dynasty . The museum is built on the site of the Xi'an Confucian Temple and consists of three parts: the Confucian Temple, the Forest of Steles, and the Stone Carving Art Room . It now houses more than 11,000 cultural relics, including 19 categories (groups) of 134 national treasure-level cultural relics . It is the earliest and largest collection of famous steles in China, with steles from the Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, covering all styles of seal, official, regular, running, and cursive scripts. Here, you can admire the exquisite calligraphy of famous masters such as Yan Zhenqing and Liu Gongquan. The "Six Steeds of Zhao Mausoleum", four of which are housed in the museum, are also world-famous . Xi'an Beilin Museum is not only a concentrated place for ancient Chinese cultural classics but also a gathering place for calligraphy art, showing the profoundness and vastness of Chinese culture. It is a must-visit place for cultural enthusiasts .
Lijiang Ancient City Lijiang Ancient City, also known as Dayan Town, is located in the center of the Lijiang Basin, at the foot of the Yulong Snow Mountain in Yunnan Province, China. Founded in the late Song and early Yuan dynasties (the 13th century), it has a history of over 800 years. Famous for its unique blend of natural beauty and rich ethnic culture, the city is celebrated for its "waterfront scenery like a painting, every household with flowing water and weeping willows." Its layout is ingeniously designed, following the natural mountain and water contours. The city lacks formal walls and a rigid grid of streets, earning it the distinction of being the only ancient city in China without a city wall. Clear streams from the Jade Spring flow through the entire city, running alongside streets and alleys, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of a water town in southern China. The architecture within the city is a harmonious fusion of the Naxi, Han, Bai, Yi, and Tibetan ethnic styles, forming a unique "garden of architecture." Traditional dwellings, often built in the "three rooms and a screen wall" style, are constructed with wood and earth, featuring exquisite carvings and decorations. The Mu Family Mansion, the former residence of the Mu chieftains, is a landmark cultural site, showcasing a blend of Ming Dynasty central Chinese architectural style with the robustness of Tang and Song dynasty architecture. In recognition of its outstanding universal value and the harmonious integration of distinctive local ethnic characteristics with nature, Lijiang Ancient City was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on December 4, 1997. It is also renowned as the "Venice of the East" and the "Highland Suzhou."
Recently, many people have been wanting to invite others to complete the auxiliary verification for themselves by scanning the code.Here is a little suggestion: After you have successfully contacted the person and confirmed that they are willing to help you scan the code for verification, you should then give the code to them. Avoid showing the code too early as it may expire due to the long time. After several failed attempts, the system will limit your frequency of inviting others to complete the auxiliary verification, which would force you to spend much more time to complete the registration. The system does this mainly for security purposes. Additionally, if anyone asks me to scan the code for assistance, I need to have a video chat first to confirm your identity. Before that, I will not do any scanning work. This is a principle issue.
Welcome to the Forbidden City — Beijing's majestic imperial heart and one of the world's most captivating historical treasures. Built in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, this vast palace complex was home to 24 emperors across nearly 500 years of Chinese history. Nestled in the center of Beijing, the Forbidden City spans 180 acres and contains 980 surviving buildings with over 8,700 rooms — so grand, legend says, that no one could count them all in a single day. Its symmetrical layout, golden roofs, red walls, and intricate dragon carvings reflect the pinnacle of traditional Chinese architecture and cosmology, symbolizing the emperor's divine rule at the center of the universe. As you walk through the Meridian Gate and across vast courtyards, you'll feel the weight of history beneath your feet. Marvel at the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where grand ceremonies once unfolded, or wander through the serene Imperial Garden, a peaceful retreat of ancient trees and elegant pavilions. Today, the Forbidden City is the Palace Museum, housing over a million priceless artifacts — from imperial thrones and jade treasures to delicate paintings and royal robes. Every corridor and courtyard tells a story of power, intrigue, art, and ambition. More than just a museum, it's a journey through time. Whether you're drawn by culture, architecture, or sheer wonder, the Forbidden City promises an unforgettable experience — where emperors once walked, and history still breathes. Step inside. The past is waiting.
White Horse Temple vs. Shaolin Temple: Key DifferencesThough both located in Henan Province and deeply rooted in Chinese Buddhist history, the White Horse Temple and Shaolin Temple play distinct roles in China’s religious and cultural heritage.1. Historical SignificanceWhite Horse Temple, built in 68 AD during the Eastern Han Dynasty, is recognized as China’s first Buddhist temple. It marks the official introduction of Buddhism to China and is honored as the “Cradle of Chinese Buddhism” and the “Source of Chinese Sutras.”Shaolin Temple, founded in 495 AD during the Northern Wei Dynasty, is over 400 years younger. It is best known as the birthplace of Chan (Zen) Buddhism and the legendary origin of Chinese Kung Fu.2. Core IdentityThe White Horse Temple is a symbol of religious transmission and cultural exchange. It was the first center for translating Buddhist scriptures into Chinese and now features international Buddhist architecture from India, Thailand, Myanmar, and Nepal—making it a global Buddhist hub.The Shaolin Temple is famed for “Chan practice and martial arts” (Chan Wu Heyi). It combines spiritual cultivation with physical discipline, giving rise to the world-renowned Shaolin Kung Fu, which has become a global cultural icon.3. Cultural and Architectural FeaturesWhite Horse Temple emphasizes peace, scholarship, and international harmony.Shaolin Temple features historic structures like the Pagoda Forest (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the Hall of Mahavira, and the famed Damascus Cave where Bodhidharma meditated. Its culture is dynamic, often showcased through martial arts performances.4. Global ImageWhite Horse Temple represents the beginning of Buddhism in China—a place of origin and interfaith dialogue.Shaolin Temple represents the evolution of Chinese Buddhism, blending philosophy, discipline, and martial tradition into a powerful cultural export.
Nestled in Luoyang, Henan Province, the White Horse Temple stands as China’s very first Buddhist temple, founded in 68 AD during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Unlike later temples, it holds the unique title of “The Cradle of Chinese Buddhism,” marking the official introduction of Buddhism to China. According to legend, Emperor Ming dreamt of a golden deity and sent envoys westward, who returned with two Indian monks riding a white horse carrying Buddhist scriptures—hence the temple’s name. What truly sets the White Horse Temple apart is its unparalleled historical and international significance. While most ancient temples reflect a single cultural tradition, this sacred site has evolved into a global Buddhist hub. It’s the only temple in the world featuring distinct architectural styles from China, India, Thailand, and Myanmar—each donated by their respective governments, symbolizing cross-cultural harmony. Japan has also contributed by rebuilding the Bell Tower and erecting a statue of the revered monk Kukai. Home to relics such as two sacred Buddha śarīras and the original translation site of the Sutra of Forty-Two Sections—the first Buddhist text translated into Chinese—the temple is not just a place of worship, but a living museum of religious and cultural exchange. Designated a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit in 1961 and aAAAA-level tourist attraction, the temple welcomes visitors with serene courtyards, ancient pagodas like the Qiyun Tower, and the annual “Bell Ringing Ceremony” that draws global pilgrims. More than just a temple, the White Horse Temple is where East met West, where faith took root, and where history still echoes in every stone—truly the spiritual ancestor of Asian Buddhism.
Chinese calligraphy (shūfǎ, 书法) is a unique and revered art form, considered one of the highest expressions of Chinese culture. It is the artistic practice of writing Chinese characters with a brush, emphasizing not only legibility but also the aesthetic beauty of the strokes, structure, and overall composition.More than just writing, calligraphy is celebrated as "the art of producing beautiful handwriting" (N-UNCOUNT, Collins English-Chinese Dictionary), often described as "silent poetry, formless dance, pictureless painting, and soundless music." It embodies a deep connection between art, literature, and philosophy, reflecting the writer's character, emotions, and spiritual state.developing over millennia into five major standardized styles:Seal Script (Zhuanshu): Ancient, formal script.Clerical Script (Lishu): Developed for bureaucratic efficiency.Regular Script (Kaishu): The standard, clear style.Running Script (Xingshu): A semi-cursive, flowing style.Cursive Script (Caoshu): Highly abstract and expressive.Artistic and Philosophical Depth:Calligraphy is deeply influenced by Chinese philosophies, particularly Daoism. The interplay of black (ink) and white (paper), the balance of solid and void, and the dynamic flow of lines reflect Daoist principles of yin and yang, and harmony with nature. As the ancient calligrapher Cai Yong stated, "Calligraphy begins with nature." Cultural Legacy:Throughout history, calligraphy has been an essential accomplishment for scholars and officials. Legendary masters like Wang Xizhi (the "Sage of Calligraphy") and Yan Zhenqing created works that are still studied and revered. Masterpieces such as the Lantingji Xu (Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion) are not only artistic treasures but also central to Chinese literary and cultural heritage.
The Longmen Grottoes: A Stone Testament to Faith and ArtCarved with divine patience over five dynasties and across four centuries, the Longmen Grottoes are not just caves; they are a breathtaking symphony in stone. Nestled along the tranquil Yi River in Luoyang, once the heart of ancient China's power and culture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning masterpiece of Buddhist art that will leave you in awe.Imagine facing two mountains, their limestone cliffs transformed into a sprawling gallery of over 2,300 caves and niches. Within them, more than 100,000 statues of Buddha and his disciples emerge from the rock, their silent presence whispering tales of devotion from a bygone era. The scale is staggering, but it's the exquisite detail that truly captivates. The craftsmanship ranges from intricate, miniature carvings barely an inch tall to colossal, monumental figures that gaze upon you with serene, eternal calm.The undisputed crown jewel is the Fengxian Temple, home to the magnificent Vairocana Buddha. At over 17 meters tall, this deity is not merely a statue; it's an experience. Flanked by loyal attendants and fierce guardians, the Buddha's graceful, enigmatic smile has watched over the valley for over 1,300 years, a powerful embodiment of spiritual peace and imperial patronage under the Tang Dynasty.Wandering through Longmen is a journey through time. Each cave tells a different story—some reflect the elegant simplicity of the Northern Wei Dynasty, while others boast the confident, lifelike grandeur of the Tang. It is a profound place where art, religion, and history converge in a powerful, tangible way.More than just a collection of statues, the Longmen Grottoes are a sacred landscape, a testament to human ambition to reach the divine. It is a place that doesn’t just ask to be seen; it demands to be felt.
The People's Liberation Army of China is the best military force in the world. They are disciplined, organized, have ideals and aspirations. They deserve the highest respect from every Chinese person. They are a group of people whom we can fully trust without any reason. They are not afraid of power, but also never bully the weak. Although their weapons may be inadequate, their fighting spirit is undoubtedly unique. It is precisely because of their existence that we can have a stable domestic environment and focus on seeking development with peace of mind.
Sanxingdui: China's Enigmatic Archaeological MarvelHidden along the Yazi River in Sichuan Province lies Sanxingdui, an archaeological treasure that rewrites ancient Chinese history. Discovered in the 1920s but catapulting to global fame through 1980s and 2020s excavations, this 3,000-year-old site reveals a lost civilization that defies all expectations.Dating to the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE), Sanxingdui was likely the capital of the fabled Shu Kingdom, once dismissed as myth. What astounds researchers is its radical departure from Yellow River cultures—this was a civilization with its own artistic language, spiritual traditions, and technological brilliance.The real magic lies in its artifacts, unearthed from mysterious sacrificial pits. Imagine a 2.6-meter bronze mask with impossibly protruding eyes and ears, as if peering into another realm. Then there’s the golden staff, 1.4 meters long, etched with humans, birds, and fish—perhaps a scepter of divine kingship. Most breathtaking is the 3.96-meter bronze sacred tree, its nine branches holding birds, a dragon coiling around its trunk, symbolizing a cosmic ladder connecting heaven and earth. Life-sized bronze figures in elaborate robes hint at a stratified society with priests and rulers wielding both temporal and spiritual power.What makes Sanxingdui truly captivating are its unsolved riddles. Unlike other Shang sites, it has no written records. Why were these treasures deliberately buried? How did the Shu people interact with distant cultures? What caused their civilization’s sudden decline? Recent 2020 excavations uncovered 1,300 new artifacts—jade, gold, ivory—adding clues but deepening the mystery.Today, Sanxingdui stands as a UNESCO World Heritage candidate, its museum drawing millions to marvel at its wonders. It shatters the notion of a single ancient Chinese culture, revealing a rich tapestry of diverse civilizations.
Nestled in the heart of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, West Lake is a masterpiece of natural beauty and cultural heritage, often hailed as "Paradise on Earth." Surrounded by rolling hills and embraced by the city, its emerald waters shimmer under the sun, reflecting a poetic landscape that has inspired artists, poets, and emperors for over a thousand years. The lake’s charm evolves with the seasons—cherry blossoms bloom in spring, lotus flowers grace the summer, golden maple leaves dance in autumn, and snow-draped willows create a fairy-tale scene in winter. Famous for its "Ten Scenes of West Lake," a collection of scenic views first celebrated during the Southern Song Dynasty, the area offers timeless wonders like "Su Causeway in Spring Dawn," "Three Ponds Mirroring the Moon," and "Broken Bridge in Snow." These sights, enhanced by historic causeways and three islets, form the iconic "One Hill, Two Pagodas, Three Causeways, Five Lakes" layout. The tranquil beauty of Leifeng Pagoda and Baochu Pagoda standing guard over the lake adds a touch of ancient elegance. More than a scenic gem, West Lake is a cultural soul of China. It has attracted renowned scholars like Su Dongpo, whose love for the lake led to the creation of Su Causeway, and is linked to legendary tales like the White Snake. In 2011, UNESCO recognized West Lake as a World Cultural Landscape Heritage, honoring its profound influence on Chinese garden design and East Asian culture. Visitors can stroll along tree-lined paths, cruise the serene waters, or savor a cup of Longjing tea from the nearby hills—famous as one of China’s finest. With its harmonious blend of nature, history, and artistry, West Lake is not just a destination, but an experience that lingers in the heart.
The Great Wall of China: A Timeless Marvel of Grit & GrandeurNo symbol whispers "China" louder than the Great Wall—a serpent of stone slithering across mountains, deserts, and history itself. Forget the myths: this isn’t just a wall. It’s a 2,300-year-old war machine, a graveyard of dynasties, and a daredevil’s playground. Here’s why it steals the breath of 10 million visitors yearly:1. By the Numbers: Jaw-Dropping Scale21,196 km long (Marathon runners would need 500 days to trace it).Built over 2,000 years (starting in 7th century BC, peaking in Ming Dynasty).1 million workers died building it—earning its nickname, "The Longest Cemetery."2. Blood & Bricks: Why It ExistsThe Wall wasn’t for show. It was China’s ultimate "Keep Out" sign:Crushed Mongol hordes with arrow slits and smoke-signal towers.Taxed Silk Road traders at choke-points like Jiayu Pass.Failed spectacularly in 1644 when traitors opened Shanhai Pass to Manchurians—ending the Ming Dynasty.3. Two Faces: Tourist vs. WildDisneyfied Sections (Badaling/Mutianyu): Smooth steps, souvenir shops, and Instagram crowds.Wild Wall (Jiankou/Gubeikou): Crumbling into oblivion, where hikers cling to 90-degree "Sky Ladders" (and sign waivers).4. Can You See It From Space? Nope.Despite legend, astronauts confirm: The Wall is invisible to the naked eye from orbit. (But its cultural shadow stretches to the moon.)5. How to Conquer ItFor Softies: Cable-car up Badaling, snap a selfie, leave in 1 hour.For Warriors: Trek Jiankou’s death-defying ridges at dawn (if you dodge the ¥50,000 fine).
The Summer Palace, located in the northwest suburbs of Beijing, is the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China. Originally constructed in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty under Emperor Qianlong, it was first named the Garden of Clear Ripples. Destroyed by the Anglo-French Allied Forces in 1860, it was later reconstructed in 1888 under Empress Dowager Cixi and renamed the Summer Palace.Covering an area of about 290 hectares, the garden is dominated by Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, with water making up approximately three-quarters of the total area. Inspired by the scenic beauty of Hangzhou’s West Lake, the design integrates natural landscapes with exquisite architecture, including pavilions, temples, corridors, and bridges, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.The East Palace Gate serves as the main entrance, leading to the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, where the emperor and empress handled state affairs. The centerpiece of the garden is the Tower of Buddhist Incense on Longevity Hill, a magnificent structure that symbolizes the heart of the Summer Palace.In 1998, the Summer Palace was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognized for its outstanding achievement in Chinese landscape garden design. It is celebrated not only as a masterpiece of royal gardens but also as a "Museum of Royal Gardens" for its rich cultural and architectural heritage.Today, the Summer Palace is a popular tourist destination and recreational park, offering visitors a peaceful retreat filled with historical charm, stunning scenery, and cultural depth.
Yangloudong: Cradle of the Ancient Tea RoadNestled in Chibi City, Hubei Province, Yangloudong is a historic town of immense significance in global tea history. Its most outstanding features are:Birthplace of Dark Brick Tea & Epicenter of the Ancient Tea Road: Yangloudong is the legendary origin of Chinese Dark Brick Tea (Qingzhuan Cha) and Rice Brick Tea (Mizhuan Cha). During the Ming and Qing dynasties (especially the 18th-19th centuries), it flourished as the primary production hub and starting point of the Ancient Tea Road (or "Ten Thousand Li Tea Road"). This vast trade network stretched north to Mongolia and Russia, eventually reaching Europe, making Yangloudong tea a globally traded commodity.The Iconic Flagstone Street & Cart Ruts: The heart of the town is its remarkably preserved Ming-Qing Dynasty Flagstone Street. Its most unique and evocative feature is the deep, parallel ruts worn into the central stones. These were carved over centuries by the iron wheels of countless oxcarts and wheelbarrows transporting compressed tea bricks to distant markets. This physical testament to the town's bustling commercial past is unparalleled."World's First Tea Ancient Town": Due to its pivotal role in international tea trade and production scale during its peak, Yangloudong earned the title "World's First Tea Ancient Town" or "Hometown of Brick Tea." Its streets were once lined with teahouses, banks, and hundreds of tea factories, processing leaves from surrounding mountains into the durable bricks essential for the long overland journey.Living Heritage: Yangloudong isn't just ruins. The traditional techniques for making Dark Brick Tea, originating here, are recognized as China's National Intangible Cultural Heritage, preserved by nearby factories like Zhaoliqiao. The ancient street itself, along with surrounding historical sites, is a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit and part of the "Ancient Tea Road" World Heritage nomination.
Mount Tai: A Sacred Symbol of Chinese CultureMount Tai (泰山, Tài Shān), located in Shandong Province, China, is one of the most revered mountains in Chinese history. As the eastern mountain of the Five Great Mountains (五岳), it has been a cultural and spiritual symbol for over 3,000 years. Known for its breathtaking natural scenery, profound religious significance, and historical legacy, Mount Tai was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, recognized for both its natural and cultural importance.1. Historical and Cultural SignificanceMount Tai has been a sacred site since ancient times, associated with imperial worship, Taoism, and Confucianism.Imperial Pilgrimages: Ancient Chinese emperors, including Qin Shi Huang (the First Emperor of China) and Emperor Wu of Han, performed the Fengshan Sacrifices (封禅) at Mount Tai to honor heaven and earth, seeking divine legitimacy for their rule.Religious Influence: The mountain is a major center of Taoism, with numerous temples such as the Dai Temple (岱庙) at its base. It is also linked to Buddhism, featuring landmarks like the Puzhao Temple.2. Natural Beauty and LandscapesMount Tai rises 1,545 meters (5,069 feet) above sea level, offering stunning views and unique geological formations.Sunrise from the Summit: Watching the sunrise from Jade Emperor Peak (玉皇顶) is a must-see experience, symbolizing renewal and hope.Strange Pines and Rocks: The mountain is famous for its ancient pine trees, such as the Welcoming Guest Pine (迎客松), and oddly shaped rocks carved by wind and erosion.3. Key AttractionsDai Temple (岱庙): The largest and oldest structure at Mount Tai’s base, built during the Han Dynasty, serving as the starting point for imperial pilgrimages.Red Gate (红门): The traditional hiking route begins here, leading through stone steps and historic inscriptions.Eighteen Bends (十八盘): The most challenging part of the climb, a steep staircase with over 1,600 steps.
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