There is so much history and beauty surrounding the "north-capital" of China, Beijing! So much to see, explore, learn and admire... walking along the paths of history and standing in awe before some of the most astonishing wonders of the Oriental world.
There is so much history and beauty surrounding the "north-capital" of China, Beijing! So much to see, explore, learn and admire... walking along the paths of history and standing in awe before some of the most astonishing wonders of the Oriental world.
About 500 miles north of Beijing is China's old capital, Shenyang, dating back to the early days of the Qing Dynasty. This is where the second best preserved Imerial Palace is after the Forbidden City. It was used as the residence of the first Qing Emperors and its vast grounds feature some incredible courtyards and many historic artifacts. While there, ensure to visit the Mausoleum of Light (Zhaoling), also known as the Northern Imperial Tomb. It is as astonishing structure with unique architecture and impressive "Path of Souls" walkway surrounded by stone columns and sculptures of the emperor's favorite horses.
The impressive Eastern Qing Tombs are the final resting place of 5 emperors, 15 empresses, 3 princes, 2 princesses and 136 concubines, all within the 15 tombs complex, built in traditional Qing fashion - tombs, pavilions, sacrificial buildings, marble bridges, sculptures and more. The most impressive of all tombs is the one of Cixi! Built with the most expensive materials, the tomb also features photo reproductions, frescoes of the Forbidden City, reliefs in gold on dark wood and exquisitely done details on the entire interior.
The site, believed to represent the cradle of Chinese origins is only about 30 miles from Beijing, in the Zhoukoudian region of the Dragon Bone Mountain. This is where a fascinating discovery was made by archaeologists and anthropologists, The Peking Man! The well preserved human remains date to about 500,000 - 700,000 years back and there is a clear evidence of the Peking Man's use of fire. The Zhoukoudian site now showcases this important discovery in human history and evolution.
Regarded as one of the most important temples in China, Tanzhe Temple is a beautiful spiritual complex up in the mountains, only about 30km from Beijing. It is believed that the Tanzhe served as a model for building the Forbidden City. Erected during the Jin Dynasty, over 1600 years ago, the complex features some outstanding pagodas from the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, various pavilions, courtyards and prayer halls. It was named after the Dragon Pool (tan or longtan), which has dried up since, and the Wild Mulberry trees (zhe or zhesu) which have significantly reduced in number since the temple's establishment.
The gorgeous Fragrant Hills Park, in the Western Mountains and just about 30km outside of Beijing, was another Imperial resort of great beauty and spirituality. It takes its name from the mountain peak covered in clouds, looking like a traditional fragrant Chinese incense burners. The park is especially picturesque in the fall when all Maple trees turn bright red and transcend a magical look to the entire area. Take a walk around and explore the traditional pagodas, pass by the Spectacle Lake and, if you dare, hike the Gujianchou trail aka "Even the Devil is Afraid" trail, to the peak... Your reward will be the breathtaking panorama over the park and its surroundings.
The beautiful Ludou Bridge was erected in the late 1100s and to this day it remains stunning with its 11 beautifully done arches and almost 300 columns decorated with lion sculptures. The bridge is also known as Marco Polo Bridge, after the famous explorer who passed here in the 1200s. Ludou Bridge was the place of an important historic event. Here, on July 7th, 1937 started the devastating Sino-Japanese War after the Japanese artillery attacked Chinese troops.
This impressive site is only 50km outside of Beijing and surrounded by gorgeous green hills. The Ming Tombs are the last resting place of 13 out of the 16 Ming Emperors. The site itself is impressive in size and features a lot of symbolic cultural elements related to the core Chinese beliefs. Walk the Avenue of Stone Statues, the Path of Souls and go through the Gate of Honor. Marvel at the grandness and powerful presence of the lost Ming Dynasty.
The gorgeous royal retreat is only 15km from Beijing but feels like a different planet. The Summer Palace's peace and tranquility contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the capital city and provides an amazing escape into nature. It includes the largest and most complete Imperial Gardens in China where you can explore the stunning grounds of ancient pavilions, mansions, temples, bridges and the huge Kunming Lake. Admire the Seventeen-Arch Bridge stretching into the lake, the throne and audience chambers, the Longetivity Hill and so much more.
The Terracotta Army of the first Chinese Emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi, is considered one of the most important and impressive archaeological finds of all times! Thousands of solder sculptures were unearthed in the Xian area, around the emperor's tomb and close to where his capital city was. Qin Shi Huangdi ordered to have his entire army made of clay and buried to accompany him in the afterlife. What is even more amazing is that each statue is life size and has its own distinctive facial features, expression, hair, clothes and carries a real weapon. This astonishing discovery depicts the reality of those glory days - the art of war and army formations, culture, clothes, and so much more. The entire site is now made into a museum, structures were erected around the Terracotta Warriors to shield them from the elements. Not all has been excavated and not all is on display but the most amazing site of a few thousand warriors in army line-up with their horses and weapons are open to see and admire.
Known as one of the wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China absolutely deserves its title! Dating back to the first emperors of China, centuries and centuries back, it was built to protect the country's borders from invasions. The Great Wall, with all of its branches, measures over 20,000km. The most famous part of it was built by the Ming Dynasty and measures to about 8,850km. Along the total length of the Great Wall around Beijing, there are eight major sections including Badaling, Juyongguan, Huanghuacheng, Jiankou, Mutianyu, Gubeikou, Jinshanling, and Simatai. Badaling is the most popular of all and only about 80km from the city while Mutianyu provides the most impressive vistas and is only about 70km from Beijing.
Natural wonders, man made wonders, architecture, modernity, antiquity, art, culture... There is so much to see and experience within this one country! Each landscape amazes with its uniqueness, sheer beauty and magic. You can spend an eternity wondering the land and discovering more and more hidden gems, untouched places and long-standing ancient walls. It is a true challenge picking the best places to see in China but here they are.
Natural wonders, man made wonders, architecture, modernity, antiquity, art, culture... There is so much to see and experience within this one country! Each landscape amazes with its uniqueness, sheer beauty and magic. You can spend an eternity wondering the land and discovering more and more hidden gems, untouched places and long-standing ancient walls. It is a true challenge picking the best places to see in China but here they are.
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.
Myrtle Beach is the ultimate family vacation destination! The center and entertainment mecca of the Grand Strand with miles of beautiful brown-sugar colored sandy beaches that invite for all day fun-in-the-sun and reveal breathtaking scenery at night for all romantics taking a quiet walk. Sit by the water and enjoy an outstanding meal or go on a shopping spree. Take the family and venture to the classic amusement parks or learn while you play at the cool museums. Why not a great round of golf by the scenic oceanfront?! Whatever you do, you'll create wonderful memories for a lifetime!
Myrtle Beach is the ultimate family vacation destination! The center and entertainment mecca of the Grand Strand with miles of beautiful brown-sugar colored sandy beaches that invite for all day fun-in-the-sun and reveal breathtaking scenery at night for all romantics taking a quiet walk. Sit by the water and enjoy an outstanding meal or go on a shopping spree. Take the family and venture to the classic amusement parks or learn while you play at the cool museums. Why not a great round of golf by the scenic oceanfront?! Whatever you do, you'll create wonderful memories for a lifetime!
Situated along the Danube River, Budapest is an architectural treasure of a city where Neoclassical, Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings shape the mesmerizing outlook of Hungary's capital. Not by accident is it called "Paris of the East"! The outstanding cuisine, hipster ruin pubs, chic cafes and trendy restaurants welcome visitors and provide a place to sit back, enjoy and take in the unique atmosphere of Budapest. Famous for its thermal baths, Budapest has been a favorite healing and pleasurable soaking place ever since the Romans. The rich history of the country is also concentrated and commemorated throughout the capital where traces of World War II, communism and turmoil can still be seen but they are overshadowed by the new beginnings, symbols of liberty and prosperity.
Situated along the Danube River, Budapest is an architectural treasure of a city where Neoclassical, Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings shape the mesmerizing outlook of Hungary's capital. Not by accident is it called "Paris of the East"! The outstanding cuisine, hipster ruin pubs, chic cafes and trendy restaurants welcome visitors and provide a place to sit back, enjoy and take in the unique atmosphere of Budapest. Famous for its thermal baths, Budapest has been a favorite healing and pleasurable soaking place ever since the Romans. The rich history of the country is also concentrated and commemorated throughout the capital where traces of World War II, communism and turmoil can still be seen but they are overshadowed by the new beginnings, symbols of liberty and prosperity.
Lisbon, a colorful and vibrant city, known for its wonderful year-round weather, beautiful Manueline architecture and Fado music. It is an incredible destination where hill top vistas, waterfront promenades and historic monuments compete for attention. Meet the friendly people and embrace the true cafe culture to experience Lisbon as it was meant to be experienced.
Lisbon, a colorful and vibrant city, known for its wonderful year-round weather, beautiful Manueline architecture and Fado music. It is an incredible destination where hill top vistas, waterfront promenades and historic monuments compete for attention. Meet the friendly people and embrace the true cafe culture to experience Lisbon as it was meant to be experienced.
Paris, the city of love & city of light, famous for its breathtaking architecture, decadent food, high fashion and exquisite art! The city itself is inspiring! Just walk along its streets and feel the romance, elegance and sophistication. The grandeur of its iconic monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arch de Triumph, the breathtaking Champs Elysees and the petite alleys, the famous baguettes and pastries, the astonishing museums and overall cultural and historic heritage make Paris the ultimate destination and create an experience of a lifetime.
Paris, the city of love & city of light, famous for its breathtaking architecture, decadent food, high fashion and exquisite art! The city itself is inspiring! Just walk along its streets and feel the romance, elegance and sophistication. The grandeur of its iconic monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arch de Triumph, the breathtaking Champs Elysees and the petite alleys, the famous baguettes and pastries, the astonishing museums and overall cultural and historic heritage make Paris the ultimate destination and create an experience of a lifetime.