China Folk Culture Village

China Folk Cultural Village, adjoining to Splendid China, is the first large-scale cultural & scenic spot assembling folk arts, customs, folk villages. With area of 200 thousand square meters; 24 villages, houses and streets built according to the ratio of 1:1; sticking to the principle of "Originate from life but lofty. Assume the marrow while desert the dross.", China Folk Cultural Village reflects the colorful Chinese culture in many respects. The performance of Villages, Folk dance and sing of the central playhouse, and large-scale joint performance of Folk Cultural Plaza displayed the Chinese folk arts incisively and vividly. After it was opened to the tourists, the China Folk Culture Carnival Parade, Four Seasons Rando, Chinese Charms, Blue Sun, Revised China Folk Culture Carnival Parade, and the latest Emerald, all these performances won the praise of Chinese terpsichorean and all the society. It can be recognized as the soul of Chinese arts that are imposing and implicated theory and poetry. All these performances bring a climax for the tourists and make a carnival by "Chinese Mill of Chinese Characteristics". Meanwhile, various national festivals including the Water-splashing Festival of Dai nationality, Torch Festival of Yi nationality, Lusheng Festival of Miao nationality and Great Temple Fairs of Chinese Nationalities are celebrated in a magnificent manner, and thus bring the tourists into a charming cultural world. The ceremony, which integrated gusto with art and is enterable, is extraordinary, splendid and is most beautiful; fully displayed Chinese long history and glory. "24 Folk villages covering 56 nationalities", the living folk customs, the glorious performances, elegant and harmonious atmosphere, all the above attracted every tourist from all over the world.

Splendid China

Splendid China" is a miniature scenery park which has taken in all the famous historic sites and scenic spots of China. "Splendid China" is the largest of its kind in the world.
Within the park, more than 80 miniature sites are arranged according to the positions of the real ones in the map of China. "Splendid China" focuses on all kinds of styles of buildings , living habits and conventions of different nationalities in China. It is a window on China for the foreigners to know about Chinese history, culture and tourism.
Being well afforested, "Splendid China" is a world of trees and flowers. Within the park, natural and artificial scenery are woven into an enchanting picture.
"One step into the history, and one day travel the whole China."

Window of the World

Shenzhen "Window of The World" is located at Overseas Chinese Town along the beautiful Shenzhen Bay, covering an area of 480,000 sqm. 118 exquisite, magnificent, world-famous scenic spots and folk song or dance shows make World Square , the Area of Asia, the Area of Oceanic, the Area of Europe, the Area of Africa, the Area of America, the World Sculpture Park, Jurassic Park the nine fabulous parts of the whole park. When night curtain falls, a cast of hundreds of artists from home and abroad on the same stage present the spectacular night show and fantastic float parade. On the shell-shape central stage, on the flower road and on the elliptical fountain stage, the magnificent, unique and novel performances display the world civilization, complemented by surrounding stereo sound effect and fancy lightings. The whole night show has created a dazing , colorful, grandiose performing atmosphere and is extremely entertaining. The creative night show in World Square is highly appraised by experts as"the milestone of Square Art in China". And this show, together with 118 scenic spots, form the most beautiful and attractive scenery in "Window of the World".

Mt. Wutai (Wutaishan) Tour

Mt. Wutai (Five Terrace Mountain) is one of Buddhism’s Four Sacred Mountains, and is dedicated to the Bodhisattva of Wisdom Manjusri (Wen shu). It is located about 200 km (77 miles) north of Taiyuan in mountainous country. The name refers to the flat tops of the five principal peaks. The north peak (Dou Feng) is the highest of the group at 3,058 meters (10,036 ft). The Buddhist associations of the site date back to the Han dynasty when an Indian monk is supposed to have had a vision of Manjusri there. The mountain became an important Buddhist center in the Northern Wei through the Tang dynasties, when more than 200 temples there were dedicated to the study of the Avatamsaka Sutra. After a period of decline, the mountain regained popularity in the Ming and Qing periods, when the emphasis on Tibetan-style Lamaist Buddhism made Mt. Wutai an important pilgrimage site. In the 15th century the founder of the austere Tibetan Yellow Hat Sect came to Mt. Wutai to preach.
About forty temples remain in the region, many in the monastic village of Taihuai nestled in the center of the five peaks, and others farther afield in the mountains. The Tayuan Si (Temple of the Pagodas) was built in Tibetan style in the Ming period, with a 50-meter high bulbous, whitewashed dome characteristic of the style. Behind the pagoda is a two story Ming-period library, which contains an older revolving sutra-case, holding rare religious texts. The nearby Xiantong Si (Temple of the Manifestations) is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the world. Its foundation dates back to the early years of Buddhism in China in the 1st century AD, though most of the present complex is Ming or Qing in date.The only major historical site you can visit is the imperial palace of China's last emperor. It is nothing like the imperial palaces in Beijing or Shenyang. It is comprised mostly of simple houses with crude lay-outs, reflecting the hasty establishment of the Japanese puppet state, headed by Puyi, China's last emperor dethroned in the 1911 Revolution.

Dazu Stone Carvings, Chongqing

Dazu, a small mountainous town west of Chongqing, is famous for its stone carvings, with more than 100,000 pieces left over from the Tang (628-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties.
The well-preserved carvings are representative of an ancient Chinese art tradition. They also take a very important position in the religious, artistic and cultural history of China. Stone carvings are found in more than 70 places scattered throughout the county of Dazu. The largest, richest and most exquisite collection of statues is at the foot of Baoding Hill and North Hill.
The stone carvings along the Baoding Hill were hewn out from 1174 to 1249. The row is 500 meters long and consists of nearly 10,000 statues, of which the most distinctive and majestic are the "Thousand-arm Goddess of Mercy" and the 31-meter long sleeping Buddha. These stone carvings are unparalleled works of art in the world and were included by NESCO as a World Heritage site in 1999.

Scenery of Siguniang Mountain

Siguniang (Four Girls) Mountains Scenic Area is situated in Xiaojin County of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. The area consists of Mt. Siguniang, Mt. Balang and Changping, Haizi, Shuangqiao valleys, covering an area of 2,000 sq km. Featuring primitive ecological condition and exquisite scenery, the area is reputed to be the Queen of Sichuan's Mountains and the Oriental Alps Mountain. It is also a center of attention for scientists.


Here are some photos of Mt. Siguniang taken by Donald Sewell during his trip there on Oct 20 - Nov 13, 2005.




(All photos by Donald Sewell)

Mt. Siguniang encompassing 4 peaks perennially covered with snow soars high with maximum 6,2500 m above sea level in the northwest of Western Sichuan Plain. There exist the remains of glaciers formed in the remote antiquity and vertical distribution of vegetation and rare wildlife. Additionally, there are Mt. Wuse (Five colors), Lieren (Hunter) Peak, Laoying (Eagle) Cliff, Mt. Niuxin (Ox's Heart), which are shrouded in clouds and mists the year round, presenting an atmosphere of a fairyland.

The mountain is not far away from Chengdu. It takes only 5-6 hours to get there. One of the optional tours is to visit Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reverse first (Wolong is actually on the half way to Siguniang).

Shangri-la, Yunnan Tour

Shangri-La - Could British writer James Hilton’s imaginary paradise really exist? According to people of Zhongdian, Yuannan Province, the answer is YES. Shangri-La, a land of eternal youth in Hilton’s 1933 novel Lost Horizon, has fascinated people around the world with its picturesque natural scenery and harmonious living environment. It is a place surrounded by snow-capped mountains, forests, gorges, and lakes. It is a place where many religions co-exist, and people of various ethnic backgrounds get along in harmony. It is a paradise sought by men of all colors and beliefs, a paradise that doesn’t really exist, or so have people believed.
However, since the mid-1990’s, more and more people have come to believe that there is indeed a place that resembles Shangri-La. Zhongdian County, a small township in Yunnan Province, looks so much like Shangri-La that in the summer of 2002, the Chinese government approved its request for a name change, from Zhongdian to Shangri-La.
Our Shangri-La Hiking tour will take you to places that resemble in many details James Hilton’s exotic Utopia. You will experience snow-capped mountains, green lakes, flowers and friendly local residents. Shangri-La’s many attractions include Bita Lake Nature Preserve, Napa Lake Baishui Terrace, Haba Snow Mountain, and Meli Snow Mountain.
China's First National Park Unveiled in Shangri-La
Shangri-La, famed as one of China's most naturally beautiful areas, now has the added honor of holding China's first national park, the 2,000-square-km Potatso National Park which was inaugurated on Thursday in Yunnan Province.

The national park takes up 17 percent of Diqing, an autonomous prefecture of Yunnan principally inhabited by Tibetans. Its diverse sceneries include crystal-clear lakes, undulating mountains and gurgling streams, making it a clear choice to become the country's first national park.

Local government efforts to map the park began in early 2006 since which time over 200 million yuan (US$26.3 million) have been spent on strengthening the park's preservation and eco-tourism appeal.

"By establishing the Potatso national park, China has taken the first step towards blending tourism development with natural protection," said Song Yinxiu, head of the park's administrative bureau.

Currently, around 69 km of roads have been constructed around two of Potatso's major scenic spots, the Shudu and Bita Lakes. The lakesides have also been protected by the laying down of 10km plank roads along their edges. The focus on environmental protection stretches all the way to the park's facilities with solar-powered public toilets and buses using clean energy used to minimize pollution.

During the park's ten-month trial operation run, it received 600,000 visitors with half the revenues from ticket sales being reconverted to environmental protection.

Although this is China's first national park, over 9,800 exist worldwide with the Yellowstone National Park in the US being the first one to be established in 1872. (Xinhua News Agency June 22, 2007)

Shaolin Temple Travel

Located in the Songshan Mountains, a little more than 50 miles southwest of Henan's provincial capital, Zhengzhou, Shaolin Temple is famous not only as one of China's important Buddhist shrines, but also as the ancient center of Chinese kung-fu.
Built in 495, the temple was originally designed to house Batuo, a celebrated Indian monk, who, after many years of spreading Buddhism, was later known as Fo Tuo, or Grand Monk. In 537, another famous Indian monk, Boddhidharma, settled in the temple, and as legend has it, created a sort of primitive bare-hand combat routine called “xingyi boxing” after he had sat meditating in a cave for nine years.
That started the kung-fu tradition at the temple. At the beginning of the seventh century, a tiny army of 13 Shaolin monks were reputed to have saved future Tang Dynasty emperor Li Shimin, by defeating an entire division of the ruling Sui Dynasty's army and helping him break out of prison. When he took power, Li showered favors, land and wealth on the temple. Shaolin then thrived as a center of kung-fu masters from around the country. At its heyday, it housed more than 3,000 solider-monks.
Always a center of rebellion, Shaolin was badly damaged by fire three times, most seriously in 1938, when a blaze raged for more than 40 days, destroying nearly all the temple's classical literature and records.
The present buildings at Shaolin Temple are spread out over an area of about 10,000 acres. The most interesting relics are the murals in the Eastern Hall, which depict groups of boxing monks.

Guangzhou Travel Guide

Guangzhou, the South Gate of China, is a prosperous metropolis full of vigor.
Guangzhou is the capital city of Guangdong, and the center of its political, economic, scientific, educational and cultural life. Sui (Ears of Rice) is short for Guangzhou and the City of Ram (Yang Cheng) is also an alias of Guangzhou. The kapok is the city flower and the kapok tree is the city tree of Guangzhou.
Guangzhou is located in the middle south of Guangdong Province, north of the Pearl River Delta. It lies close to the South China Sea, Hong Kong, and Macau. Zhujiang (The Pearl River), the third largest river of China, runs through Guangzhou and is navigable to the South China Sea. Situated in such an excellent geographical region, Guangzhou is called China's South Gate.
Covering an area of 7434.4 square kilometers (2870 square miles), Guangzhou is home to more than 11 million people, including a 3.7 million transitory population. With the opening of China to the outside world, a large number of people from other regions of China swarmed into Guangzhou, one of the first 'open' cities in China. This has accelerated its economic development.
Guangzhou is a famous historical city. In ancient days, Guangzhou was the capital city for three Chinese dynasties: the Nan Yue (South Yue), the Nan Han (South Han) and the Nanming (South Ming). Thus it was put in the list of the 24 most famous historical cultural cities and became a tourist destination. You can not understand most Chinese cities deeply until you know their history. This is true of Guangzhou. Many historic sights: the Western Han Nanyue King's Tomb Museum, the Zhenhai Tower and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall tell us the 2,000-year history of Guangzhou.

Today, Guangzhou retains its ancient customs, but is also a large city full of vigor and current fashions. You can find something worth taking home in Shangxia Jiu Lu, Beijing Lu and Di Shi Fu Lu.
Trying Yue Cai (Cantonese Cuisine), one of eight Chinese famous cuisines, is definitely a must in Guangzhou! Eat delicious food with ingredients you have never heard of.
Hotel facilities and service in Guangzhou are fine. A word of warning: Do make a reservation beforehand if you decide to visit Guangzhou during the Canton Fair. For visitors, especially those plan to attend the Canton Fair, transportation in Guangzhou is more and more convenient. You can choose plane, train, ship or bus.
Guangzhou is famous as a hometown for overseas Chinese. It boasts the largest population of overseas Chinese people. These overseas Chinese do a great deal of good for Guangzhou: opening international markets, bridging Guangzhou and the rest of the world, and establishing many schools, hospitals, nurseries, kindergartens and rest homes in Guangzhou.

Horse Racing Experiencing

Hong Kong is a fashion and magic city. It has world-class buildings, the quick-pace life and all kinds of the entertainment facilities. Besides shopping in the malls, having fun in the Ocean Park and Disneyland, today we would like to lead you to have a special horse racing tour.
There are two racecourses in Hong Kong: Happy Valley Racecourse and Sha Tin Racecourse. The Happy Valley Racecourse is the first racecourse in Hong Kong, which was built by filling up a swamp, and the first Race Meeting was held in 1846. From then on, it was held every year till now. In 1978, Hong Kong Jockey Club built a new world-class racecourse, the Sha Tin Racecourse, and it has a seating capacity of 80,000 people. Towards the stand, there is a huge color screen which is the largest outdoor screen in the world.
The Happy Valley Racecourse is located in Happy Valley, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Island. You can get there by MTR, Causeway Bay Station, A Exit, walking along the Canal Road towards South for about 15 minutes. In the second floor of Happy Valley stand, Hong Kong Horse Racing Museum is located there (Opening time: 10:00 - 17:00 from Tuesday to Sunday; if it happens to meet the racing event, the museum will be closed at 12:30).
The Sha Tin Racecourse is located in New Territories. You can take the Kowloon Canton East Rail from Kowloon Tong Station, and stop at the racecourse. Tel: +852 2966 8111.
Nothing beats the thrills of the hose-racing in Hong Kong - a passionately followed sport. From September to the next June is the house-racing season and the event is available twice-weekly. If you want to attend the race meeting to feel the tension of the exciting race or have the enjoyment of betting, you can take the Come Horse Racing Tour which is held by Hong Kong Jockey Club. In this tour, you can enjoy the special treats of pick-up service, English-speaking guide and abundant buffet lunch with a range of beverage options, like appointed wine, local beer, orange juice and soda pop and enjoy a discount price in the souvenir shops. The Come Horse Racing Tour is also available between September and the next June. The duration of the tour is about 6 to 7 hours and the price range is from HK$490.00 - HK$790.00 per person. If you are interested in it, you can consult the number + 852 2366 3995 or +852 2368 7111 for detailed information.

Hong Kong Hotel List (5 Star)

The Park Lane Hotel, Hong Kong
310 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay,Hong Kong, China,Area: Causeway Bay
Direction: The Park Lane Hong Kong is a luxurious, first-class hotel situated right in the heart of vibrant Causeway Bay, with spectacular views of Victoria Park, Hong Kong's largest park, and the famous Hong Kong harbour.
Surrounding: Victoria Park, Hong Kong Harbour
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Regal Airport Hotel, Hong Kong

Area: Airport area
Direction: is connected directly to the passenger terminal of Hong Kong International Airport by an enclosed, air-conditioned linkbridge.
Surrounding: Hong Kong Island
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Regal Hong Kong Hotel

4 Hotel Photos
Area: Causeway Bay
Direction: located opposite Victoria Park in the heart of Causeway Bay, Hong Kong's thriving business, entertainment and shopping district.
Surrounding: Hong Kong Island
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

The Marco Polo Gateway, Hong Kong

Area: Tsim Sha Tsui
Direction: It is a luxury Hong Kong hotel strategically located in Harbour City, Kowloon within easy access of a great selection of Hong Kong's finest shopping outlets and close to the city's numerous attractions. * Airport: 35 km
Surrounding: Kowloon Park, the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Space Museum, The Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Harbour city
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Excelsior Hotel, Hong Kong

Area: Causeway Bay
Direction: It is in the heart of the entertainment, business and shopping district, with spectacular views over Victoria Harbour.
Surrounding: Causeway Shopping Centre, Victoria Harbour
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

Area: Hong Kong Disneyland
Direction: It is located in the Hong Kong Disneyland.
Surrounding: Hong Kong Disneyland
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

JW Marriott Hotel, Hong Kong

Area: Central
Direction: It features ideal downtown location above Pacific Place and Hong Kong Harbor.
Surrounding: Pacific Place, Hong Kong Harbor, Hong Kong Park
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Langham Place Hotel Mong Kok Hong Kong

Area: Mong Kok
Direction: * Airport: 33 km * railway Station: 0.5 km
Surrounding: Ladies' Market, Temple Street, Jade Market
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Harbour Plaza Hotel, Hong Kong

Area: Hung Hom
Direction: Situated along the Kowloon waterfront with breathtaking views of the Victoria Harbour towards Hong Kong Island and the South China Sea.Only 5 minutes from Tsim Sha Tsui, the hotel enjoys the convenience of being in the heart of the city.
Surrounding: Culture Center, Shopping Center, Victoria Harbour
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Island Shangri-La Hotel, Hong Kong

Area: Central
Direction: It is centrally located in the heart of Hong Kong. It has direct access to Pacific Place.
Surrounding: Pacific Place
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB, Chinese Yuan

Gold Coast Hotel, Hong Kong

Area: New Territories
Direction: It is located within half an hour of the shopping and nightlife attractions of Tsim Sha Tsui, and a 20 minute journey by MTR from Central on Hong Kong Island.
Surrounding: Gold Coast Shopping Mall
Accepted Payment: Master, Visa, AMEX, Chinese Yuan

Hong Kong Food

Hong Kong is known as "the City of Asian Good Food", the delicacy type is many, the color, smell and tastes, the punishment are all good, known far and wide. Except the Hong Kong typical Yum Cha (tea drinking), Cantonese Meat Roasting, Dessert and Seafood, the distinctive kinds of theme restaurants will let you feel multiplex of diet charm.
SeafoodHong Kong is a island, the freshest seafood were supplied in the four seasons, in addition the exquisite cooking skills, eats the seafood in Hong Kong already is in the traveling schedule which the tourist must go. 1. Fu Yao Seafood Restaurant Address: 18# B Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, KowloonTel: + 852 2368 - 8709Opening Time: 18:00 - 04:30 The restaurant is located in the Tsim Sha Tsui and near to the Hung Hom Stadium where is the famous place for pop concert, so it is also the good place to have an unexpected meeting with stars.
2. Super Star Seafood Restaurant (Hong Xing Sea Food Restaurant)Address: 83-97# Hua Yuan Building, Nathan Road, KowloonTel: + 852 2628 0339Opening Time: 10:30 - 23:30Website: http://www.superstargroup.com.hk/ Stone Fish is the most famous dish of this restaurant, and also the signature dish which must select, because the dinning time is always fully occupied, suggested makes a reservation beforehand.
Yum Cha (Tea Drinking) Yum Cha is the most characterful and popular diet. In the morning, you can choose a local tea place, order several Dum Sum and a cup of tea or coffee, is a good experience to feel the locals life.
1. Lang Ham Place Hotel Ming GeAddress: Sixth Floor, 555# Ming Hao Hotel, Shanghai Road, Mong KoK, Kowloon Tel: +852 3552 - 3300Opening Time: 11:00 - 14:30, 18:00 - 22:30You can take subway to the Mong KoK, walking out from the Exit E2, going thought the Langham Place, you will arrive at the Lang Ham Place Hotel. The Ming Ge restaurant is in the sixth floor of the hotel.

2. Lian Xiang LouAddress: #160-164 Wellington Street, Sheung WanTel: +852 2544 4556Opening Time: 9:00 - 22:00 Lian Xiang Lou restaurant is in Wellington Street, you can take subway to Sheung Wan station, walk out from the A2 Exit, go straight along the Hiller Street to the Bonham Strand East Street and turn left for about 10 minutes walking.
3. Jia Lin Ge in Peninsular Hotel Hong Kong Address: Peninsular Hotel, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Tel: +852 2315 3160 Opening Time: Monday - Saturday: 11:30 - 15:00; 18:00 - 23:00; Sunday: 11:00 - 15:00; 18:00 - 23:00 Its decoration is based on the style of the old Shanghai in 20's or 30's of 20th century. Except the delicious and exquisite kinds of Dim Sum, there are more than 200 teapots made of Purple Clay Wares collections in the Tea Bar and you may nearby watch the tea ceremony perform.

Dessert: It may say that dessert is the most favorite food for most of Hong Kong people, the sesame seed sticks, the double skin milk, and the jellied bean curd, each of them is unforgettable once you have tasted. Honeymoon Dessert Main Office Address: 10C# underground, Putong Road, SaigonTel: +852 8203 6102Website: http://www.honeymoon-dessert.com/ Honeymoon Dessert is the most famous dessert restaurant in Hong Kong, it has many branches in Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, but the main office is still the most popular one. The average cost is HK$30.00 - HK$40.00 per person.
2. Sweet Dynasty Address: 88# Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Tel: + 852 2199 7799/ 2199 7788 Opening Time: Monday-Thursday: 10:00 - 24:00 Friday: 10:00 - 01:00 of next day Saturday: 07:30 - 01:00 of next day Sunday: 07:30 - 24:00 Website: http://www.sweetdynasty.com.hk/ Sweet Dynasty is located in the Canton Road, the opposite of Harbour City Shopping Mall. Its decoration is upscale, and all food material is well elected with high standard. The delicious jellied bean curd is one of the specialties of the restaurant.
3. Xu Liu Shan Address: 28# Russell Street, Causeway Bay, Hong KongTel: + 852 2832 - 9603Website: hkhls.comTransportation: F Exit of Causeway Bay Xu Liu Shan is a very famous Sweet Chain Shops in Hong Kong, you can found it everywhere. The recommend dessert is the Mango Lao Ye, Mango Budding and other Mango products. The average cost is HK$35.00 per person.
4. Yi Pin Zhai Address: 8# Heaven Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2577 2307 Although Yi Pin Zhai does not have the air-conditioner, is still one of the most famous sweet shops in Hong Kong from the ordinary local people to the famous movie and POP stars. Its high reputation products are the sesame seed stick, the red kidney bean paste and the jellied bean curd. Especially the "Black + White" is most the popular one and it is actually combined by the black sesame seed stick and white jellied bean curd.

One-day Luxury Central Tour

Yum Cha (tea drinking) is recommended for you to have a brunch around 10:00am (generally, a big discount is offered before 11:00am in most tea restaurants). You can try the most popular restaurant in Kowloon, Tian Bao Ge restaurant at Sheraton Hotel (Add: No.20 Nathan Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon, Tel: +852 2369 1111). Its opening time is 10:30 to 15:00 & 18:00 to 24:00 from Monday to Saturday and on Sunday it is half an hour earlier in the morning. The restaurant is well known for its exquisite environment and top quality dim sum.

After you get out of the Sheraton hotel, turn left to reach the Nathan Road and turn left again, walking along the Salisbury Road you will find the Bus Terminal and the Star Ferry Pier. Star Ferry started sailing from 1898, which is the first choice of all transportations between Central, Hong Kong and Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, and you can not only enjoy the amazing scenery of Victoria Harbor but also experience the great changes happened in Hong Kong during these 100 years. The journey only takes you about 8 minutes and costs HK$2.2 per adult for one way.

Upon arrival at the Pier No.7, also the Star Ferry Pier in Central, walk along the Man Yu St towards South down to the General Post Office, turn left to the Connaught Place, and at the end of this road you will reach the Statue Square, which is a Pubic Park built in the 19th century and where the statue of Victoria Queen was seated when it was built. That's the origin for its name. Later, the statue was moved to the Victoria Park in Causeway Bay. And now, the park is still very popular among local people. The HSBC Hong Kong is located beside the square. It is an outstanding modern building and looks like a robot seen from outside. The whole construction was made of the glass and steels, and it is one of the most expensive buildings in the world. Then go shopping at the IFC Mall which boasts over 200 international top brands and 31 restaurants and bars, for all tastes and all budgets.

For dinner, traditional Hong Kong cuisine would be an ideal choice. You can try the famous Yung Kee Restaurant (Address: 32-40 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2522 1624). After dinner, take bus No.15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminal to the station of Peak Tram to the Peak, and then take the peak tram (please take the seats of right side to make sure that you will enjoy a very beautiful night scene; ticket charge: HK$22.00 for one way and HK$33.00 for round way) to the Victoria Peak, which is the best place to enjoy the multi-colorful night views of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbor.

As one of the most famous sleepless cities in the world, you should not miss the unique and delightful nightlife of Hong Kong. Lan Kwai Fong, the hottest and trendiest night spot in Hong Kong, is a "MUST" place (Central Station D1, D2 Exit, along the Queen Rd Central to the D'Guilar Street, it takes you about 5 minutes' walking to get there).

Hong Kong Local Markets

This morning, let's taste the local breakfast first - soup and dim sum. We would like to recommend a famed restaurant named Fu Ji Zhou Pin with a long history of over 40 years (104-106 Garden Rt in Mong Kok, Kowloon, Tel: +852 2385 1230). Its opening time is from 07:30 to 24:00 everyday. Although the restaurant looks small and ordinary in appearance, its food is indeed luxurious with top quality. You can go there by taking subway and get out from D3 Exit in Mong Kok, walking along the Garden Rt for about 15 minutes.

Then, we will travel to the longest outdoor escalator in the world (C exit, Central Station, walking along the Jubilee Street for about 15 minutes), the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator, which runs from Central to Mid-Levels (available uphill from 10:20am until midnight). The full escalator is 800m long and takes you 20 min from the bottom to the top. There are many exits to the roads of different directions in the middle, so you can get off wherever you want. Take the escalator up to the Hollywood Road. It is the first road since Hong Kong became a port and also a compact community of early inhabitants of Chinese. There stand many antique shops and old furniture shops. The goods of this road are always expensive, but it is still attractive for most tourists especially for foreigners due to its strong customs of the orient.

From the Exchange Square, you can take bus (6, 6X, 60 or 260) to the Stanley Market. If you like, you can stop over at Aberdeen Fishing Village (home of floating population) where you will see many kinds of junks and yachts to all directions. Stanley Market is a popular tourist destination to go to haggle over everything from antiques to electric products. Along this street, there are many restaurants and bars, you can have a lunch or take a coffee break there.

In the afternoon, go back to Central by bus and take Kwun Tong Line to Mong Kok. Walking out from D3 exit and turn right, you will arrive at the famous Women's Street, the best place to buy things for women, by offering bargains on everything from jeans to jade necklaces. If you are a crazy shopper, go to the Temple St Street after 20:00 (Yau Ma Tei Station C exit). Temple St is also called as Men's Street and it is a lively night market selling cheap clothes and all kinds of little trinkets. You can also taste the traditional local flavors there, like seafood, hot pot, BBQ and etc. Sometimes, the local Cantonese Opera is performed there for free, but tips are required at the break time. Temple St. Street is a right place to experience the real life of local people.

One-day to Lantau Island

Lantau boasts as a largest island in Hong Kong, which is almost 2 times as Hong Kong Island in territory. It is a mountainous region with very limited flat area. Most of the travelers come to trace the Buddhist temples in piety in this island. What's more, it is a delectable place for a cozy promenade.

The tour begins by sailing on an air-conditioned ferry from No. 7 Port in the Central to Silvermine Bay (Mui Wo) for about 50 minutes. In the Mui Wo Bus Station, take the bus No.1 to the Cheung Sha Beach, Tai O Fishing Village. You can see many traditional shanties along the river which have gone through centuries of vicissitudes. The inhabitants there, who are called "Hakka" and fostered by the resourceful sea, make their living by fishing.

After visiting the traditional fishing village, you might take the bus No. 2 towards the Po Lin Monastery for about 40 minutes. As the prestigious bethel of Buddhism, it attracts millions of domestic and foreign travelers annually and it deserves the best gathering of temples in Hong Kong in scale and delicacy. The great bronze Buddha statue is just adjacent to the monastery, renowned as the biggest Bronze Seating Buddha in the world. It is 100 ft tall and 202 ton in weight and you need to walk up 268 steps to have a close look at this holy Buddha. The Buddha statue is a tremendous treasure inside. There are many precious historic and cultural heritages of Buddhism stored there. It is divided into Merits and Virtues Hall, Exhibition Room and the Memorial Hall, which are all free for visitors. However, if you want to enter the Memorial Hall, you need to purchase some Chinese-style vegetarian food at the entrance, which acts as a necessary attachment. From another perspective, this is a special meal in the monastery that may add some unique flavor and also is a good chance to experience the monks' life.

Take bus No. 23 to the Tung Chung Station, where you can return to Central area by subway (Optional: from the Tung Chung, you can choose Ngong Ping 360 cable car to reach the Great Buddha. On the cable car, you will have a golden opportunity to overlook the Lantau Island, which is another extraordinary experience. The admission fee for each adult: HK$58.00 for one way and HK$88.00 for round-way).

Hong Kong Disneyland Tour

When we were children, we dreamed everything wondrously new and magically real. However, when we rushed our feet all days to make a living, we are already grown-up unconsciously and even forget our dreams in childhood for a long time. Children grow up quickly, but the magic of Disneyland keeps our heart forever young. Dear friends, please follow us to have a marvelous journey in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is located on Lantau Island and accessible with various convenient transportations.

By MTR, please take the Tung Chung Line to reach Sunny Bay and interchange the Disneyland Line to the resort. From airport, it takes you only 23 minutes (from airport to Tsing Yi, interchange Tung Chung Line to Sunny Bay and then interchange Disneyland Resort Line). From Kowloon, it takes about 30 minutes, and 33 minutes if you start from Hong Kong. It is the gateway to get the magic.

By bus, between Hong Kong and Disneyland Resort, you can take R11 or R22, which costs you about HK$38.00 net per adult. R11 runs between North Point Pier and the Disneyland Resort Public Transport Interchange (PTI) and R22 runs between You Tang and PTI. Time schedule to PTI starts at 9:00am; from PTI starts within 15 min to 45 min after the fireworks. Admission fee for normal days: HK$295.00 per adult; HK$210.00 per child (3 - 11 yrs old); HK$170.00 for senior citizen over 65 yrs-old. The child under 3 yrs-old is free of charge. Admission fee for holidays and festivals: HK$350.00 per adult; HK$250.00 per child (3 - 11 yrs old); HK$200.00 for senior citizens over 65 yrs-old.

There are four theme parks in Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: Fantasyland, Adventureland, Spaceland and American Main Street. Enjoying the adventurous thrilling rides and watch the amazing Broadway-style shows, you will find your favorite character coming into life and the fairy tales becoming reality there. When you enter the resort, take the timetable along with you, which is very helpful for you to make a well arrangement for the whole day. There are so many entertainment facilities in this resort. Now we would like to recommend some "Musts" that you should not miss.

Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad, located in the Main Street, U.S.A. is the first stop of Hong Kong Disneyland. Please take the old steam engine train from American Town to the Spaceland, you can take a general look at the whole park and experience the best transportation of old time.

"The Golden Mickeys" in the storybook theater – Fantasyland: the show lasts 30 min and is a 3D cartoon movie. You will be offered with the professional glasses to watch the movie. This 3D movie is quite lively and vivid. You might even smell the perfume of the banquet and feel the water drops of rain which are happening on the movie when you are watching. All these special and magic arrangements are the one and only in all Disneyland of the world.

If one day is not enough for you to enjoy the all, you can also choose to sleep with Mickey. Hong Kong Disneyland offers you two theme hotels: Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel (Tel: +852 3510-6000) and Disney Hollywood Hotel (Tel: +852 3510 5000). Both of the hotels are full of magic and fantastic ideas and designs. Guests can play hide-and-seek in the large Garden labyrinth, take photos with Princess Disney and seek 32 pairs of crystal shoes of Cinderella's in the huge crystal light of the hotel lobby.

Hong Kong Ocean Park

Hong Kong Ocean Park is located in Aberdeen, the south side of Hong Kong Island. It was built on both sides of the mountain and has two entrances - the Main Entrance and the Tai Shue Wan Entrance. The opening time of the park is from 10:00 to 18:00.
From Central, you can take bus (6A, 6X, 70, 75, 90, 97 and 260) from the Exchange Square Bus Terminal to the Ocean Park for about 20 minutes. After going through the Aberdeen tunnel, just follow the direction, it is a short walk to the Main Entrance. The entrance fee is HK$185.00 for adult and HK$93.00 for child under 12 years old. Ocean Park has 7 theme areas: the Park Tour, Lowland Gardens, Kids' World, Marine Land, Headland Rides, Adventure Land and Bird Paradise. Firstly, take the cable car up to the mountain. You can enjoy the spectacular views of the South China Sea during the 8 minutes' journey. Visit the Atoll Reef, you will witness the spectacular undersea world with over 5,000 fish. Try the heart-stopping action of the Dragon Roller Coaster, the Spider, the Octopus Asia's most exciting selection of the thrill-packed rides. The performances of trained dolphins and sea-lions are the highlight of the Ocean Park. Please check the show time when you enter the park and be sure to get to the Ocean Theater at least 20 minutes ahead of the show. If you do not want to get wet by the water spray made by the piquant blue whale, please choose the seat after the fifth row. For dining, you will have plenty of choices: pizza, hotdogs, BBQ and various ice-creams and drinks.

After you finish the tour in Ocean Park, you can take bus back to Central. There is another option tour for you to have a perfect ending of the day. From the Exchange Square Bus Terminal, along the ManYiu Street towards North to the end, there is a Star Ferry Pier. Take the Star Ferry to Kowloon. Upon arrival at the pier, please follow the direction to get to the Avenue of Stars (It only takes you about 5 minutes to get there). Rambling along the road, you will appreciate the beautiful night scene of Victoria Harbor and have a close touch with over 73 famous movie stars in Hong Kong, such as Bruce Lee, Jacky Chan, Maggie Zhang and etc. You can take photos with your favorite Movie Star, of course, with their bronze statue or handprint. Besides, "A Symphony of Lights" is held here every night starting at 20:00. It is a world-leading multimedia lights and music show. The "performers" are the 18 high buildings along the Victoria Harbor in Hong Kong Island. You just choose a good place and enjoy it for free.

Hong Kong Travel Guide

Hong Kong, the Oriental Pearl, is simply amazing!
It would be hard to find a more exciting city than Hong Kong. Set among beautiful natural surroundings it has all the benefits of a thriving and vibrant commercial center. Here you can find the delights of modern living alongside an abundance of reminders of its historic past. Whether you visit the better known highlights like the stunning Ocean Park, the fantastic viewpoint of Victoria Peak or the beautiful Repulse Bay, Hong Kong is certain to exceed your expectations.
Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of PRC, has grown from what was a simple fishing village into the world's fourth largest banking and financial center and eighth largest trading economy. Situated in the southeast corner of China, Hong Kong occupies an area of 1,104 square kilometers (about 426 square miles)and is home to more than 6,970,000 people. Most people (about 97% of the population) are Chinese and speak Cantonese and English, although Mandarin is becoming more popular in Hong Kong now. Most tourism personnel and taxi drivers can communicate with tourists in English. The most common religions are Buddhism and Christianity.
Hong Kong is made up of four parts: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories and the Outlying Islands. Hong Kong Island is the center of economy, politics, entertainment and shopping. Northern Hong Kong Island is the main commercial, shopping and entertainment area; the residential area is located in Eastern Hong Kong Island; and Southern Hong Kong Island known for its sea shores and bays. Kowloon is another flourishing part of Hong Kong. Above all, Causeway Bay, Wan Chai , Tsim Sha Tsui, Yau Ma Tei and Mong Kok are the most popular areas. These areas are busy day and night, and tourists can feel secure enjoying the lively nightlife, because Hong Kong is one of the most secure cities in the world. The New Territories and Outlying Islands are ideal places to experience a peaceful and natural Hong Kong.

An open city with a wonderful natural harbor, Hong Kong is the meeting place of various cultures that blend harmoniously with Chinese traditions and exotic influences. On one hand traces of British culture can be found everywhere as a result of former colonial rule. On the other hand, Hong Kong preserves traditional customs and the core values of Confucianism that have faded in Mainland China. This is reflected in its colorful festivals ranging from Spring Festival to Christmas. Nowhere else on earth do luxury restaurants, street side food-stalls known locally as dai pai dong, grand mansions and penthouses, tenements, office blocks, wooden boats and huge liners coupled with English in a variety of accents and multifarious Chinese dialects coexist peacefully.
It is the dynamic Hong Kong that provides the environment in which the richest Chinese listed in Forbes directory do business. The city also is the backdrop for modern movies and pop music that together enjoy worldwide recognition. Home of Kongfu heroes like the late Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, Hong Kong continues to attract more and more ambitious would-be stars and entrepreneurs.

From Yum Cha (tea and dim sum) in the morning to a moon lit view from the top of Victoria Peak or stunning night time harbor cruise, mingling with shoppers in the numerous malls and markets around Tsim Sha Tsui , tasting delicacies at dai pai dong, taking a trip in a sampan or high speed ferry, Hong Kong will guarantee its visitors an unforgettable experience. There will always be something to enchant you and quite probably make you fall in love with this unique place, be it sightseeing, shopping, dining or simply exploring its many delights by day and night.
If there is no other reason why people from the world over are so interested in this island, the answer is likely to be 'because it is there!' Don't wait any longer. Join us and explore this wonderland for yourself!

Beijing-Accomodation Guide

Grand Hyatt Beijing
Located at the heart of the city’s prestigious business and commercial district, Grand Hyatt Beijing is part of the Oriental Plaza — China’s largest commercial complex. Situated at the crossroads of Chang An Avenue and Wangfujing, it is just minutes’ walking distance from China’s most treasured spot, the Forbidden City. The 825 guestrooms and suites are designed to reflect the comfort one welcomes after a hectic day of business or sightseeing, with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking some of the capital’s most picturesque and historic districts. Amiable living would not be complete without fine cuisine. The restaurants and lounges at Grand Hyatt Beijing offer the cutting-edge culinary excellence for which Grand Hyatt hotels are internationally renowned. Club Oasis features a resort+86 10 8518 1234-style swimming pool and a 24-hour fitness centre and also with spa pools, private massage rooms, sauna, steam rooms, solarium and whirlpool bath.
Location：40 minutes distance by car to Beijing Capital International Airport，10 minutes distance by car to Beijing Railway Station,15 minutes walking distance to the Tiananmen square

DIAOYUTAI STATE GUESTHOSE
A modern,internationalized,intelligent,comprehensive business hotel,unique for its cultural haracteristics with guestrooms,office tower,theater,restaurants, entertainment and conference facilities all combined into one. High-quality comfortable space and personalized care.Poly Plaza has 292 units of standard rooms,luxury suites,Chinese and Western superior suites and non-smoking rooms.Each of these standardized and modernized rooms provides you with luxury and comfortable surroundings.The Office Tower covers a total area of over 12,000 square meters,with advantageous offices leading the industry. Poly Plaza meet guests all over the world with smile and personalized service. A modern,internationalized,intelligent,comprehensive business hotel,unique for its cultural characteristicswith guestrooms,office tower,theater,restaur-ants,entertainment and onference facilities all combined into one.

St.Regis Hotel, Beijing
St. Regis Hotel, Beijing exemplifies the St. Regis brand legacy of elegance, service and style, distinguishing itself as the hallmark of luxurious accommodations in China. Superbly situated in the center of the business, diplomatic and shopping district, and only a few minutes away from the historical sites of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, the hotel is home to Heads of State, Celebrities and CEO’s. The best five star natural hot spring water Spa in Beijing, and an excellent range of dining options, make us an unforgettable luxury destination.

Hilton BEIJING NEWS RELEASE
Unwind in the Hilton Beijing hotel's 22nd-floor Executive Lounge. Do business in one of 4 meeting rooms or the fully equipped business centre or log onto the free wireless internet access in public areas. The hotel is located in the business district, just 20 minutes from the airport and Beijing's attractions.Dine in one of 5 restaurants and bars. Enjoy Asian flavors at the Hilton Beijing hotel's 24-hour Elements restaurant, specialty coffees at Caffè Cino and creative cocktails at Zeta Bar.Play squash, keep fit in the fully equipped gym or drift away with a relaxing sauna and massage at the Hilton Beijing hotel. Discover Beijing attractions from the iconic Tian'anmen Square and red-walled Forbidden City to the Summer Palace's solace.Located in Chaoyang business district, Hilton Beijing hotel has 4 meeting rooms, an Executive Lounge, business center and wireless internet access in public areas. Stay in a Deluxe Room or a light Executive Room with Executive Lounge access. All rooms in the Hilton Beijing hotel have high-speed internet access.

SciTech Hotel
SciTech Hotel is a four-star business hotel which is located in the center of Beijing’s commercial and diplomatic district. Adjacent to the Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Ancient Observatory and the Central business District (CBD), the hotel presents an ideal combination of traditional culture and modern luxury. SciTech Hotel, together with SciTech Club, SciTech Plaza, SciTech Tower and SciTech Place, constitute a modern integrative architectural design. At SciTech Hotel, we welcome both business and leisure travelers with great hospitality. With 294 guest rooms, ranging from comfortable standard rooms to elegant duplex suites, plus business floors (F14/F15), especially designed and furnished for business travelers, SciTech Hotel ensures that a busy business itinerary is easily covered. With serene ambience, Fortune Court Chinese Restaurant, Pastels Bistro Coffee Shop and Arirang Korean Restaurant serve fine delicacies. Four function halls offer perfect venues for multipurpose gatherings, business conferences, family weddings and various ceremonies. To satisfy guests’ business needs, Business Center provides prompt and professional services: 3DDS Internet access, secretarial service, translation and interpretation, facsimile transmission, scanning, IDD service, DHL, meeting room rental service which enable you to carry on your business within a professional environment. Choose SciTech Hotel, and you will never be disappointed.

Holiday Inn LIDO BEIJING
Holiday Inn Lido Beijing was the first Holiday Inn hotel in China. Designed as a fully integrated facility, the hotel is located within the Lido Place, a commercial/residential complex that accommodates a large number of Beijing's expatriate community and multinational companies. Conveniently located 17 km from the Beijing Capital Airport, the hotel is situated near the China International Exhibition Centre, San Li Tun Embassy District, many of Beijing's famous attractions and commercial office buildings.

Hotel Kunlun
Hotel Kunlun is the proud Beijing flagship hotel of Shanghai-based Jinjiang International Hotel Management Corporation. The Hotel officially opened its doors to the public in 1989, and by 1996 had garnered recognition by two prestigious organizations: the China National Tourism Administration named Kunlun on the China's 50 Best Hotels, while the American Academy of Restaurant and Hospitality Sciences presented Hotel Kunlun with its 36th Five Star Diamond Award. Hotel Kunlun's commitment to luxury and excellence is especially evident today. In 2005, a spectacular new Lobby, as well as a well-appointed series of appropriately named Premier Deluxe Rooms, was unveiled as part of the Hotel's commitment to maintaining excellence in both facilities and in service

jinglunhotel
Opened in Sept. 1984, Jinglun Hotel is one of the earliest international joint venture four —star hotels in Beijing. It is managed by JAL Hotels Company Ltd.
The hotel is located in the cental of Beijing Business District, and adjacent to China World Trade Center, business areas and embassy quarters. It is very convenient for a business trip and to go sightseeing. The hotel is 3 kilometers and 10 minutes drive from Tian’an Men Square , and 25 kilometers 30 minutes drive t from Beijing’s Capital International Airport.

JING GUANG NEW WORLD HOTEL

THE TALLEST BUILDING IN BEIJING Jing Guang Center, the tallest building in Beijing, is an operating mansion whose modern skyscraper stretching 209 metres, some 52 storeys high with a fan shaped, blue glass facade set high amongst the white clouds of Beijing. Jing Guang Center is a joint venture complex. The partners include Hong Kong Jing Guang Development Co. Ltd. and Beijing Hua Yang Economic Exploit Co. Ltd. The Center managed by Hong Kong based New World Hotels International formally opened on June 18, 1990. New World Hotels International is a high-quality brand of hotels in Asia operated by Marriott International Inc, the world’s leading hospitality company. The Center comprises 3 sections, namely a 5 star hotel--Jing Guang New World Hotel - an office tower and deluxe apartments. The first 7 levels are public areas featuring deluxe western or Chinese restaurants and bars, banqueting, and well equipped business centre with fully furnished office space and all season swimming pool with natural SUNLIGHT and world-class heath club complex. Jing Guang New World Hotel is located between the 8th and 23rd floor with 446 guest rooms which offers the most stunning views of the city, and also provides the perfect venue for events of all sizes with our spacious Ballroom and well-equipped function rooms. Banquets, conferences, board meetings, training seminars, cocktail receptions and private dinner parties pose no feat to our professionally trained staff. The Ballroom can comfortably accommodate up to 800 guests in its 750 square metres of pillarless space. Additional function rooms contribute another 300 square metres of space and can hold up to 200 guests. Both the ballroom and the function rooms can be divided by mobile partitions for maximum flexibility. The 25th-38th floor is our office tower consisting of 20,000 square meters housing 180 tenants representing over 25 countries. The 40th to 52nd floors are 247 suite of deluxe apartments offering the most stunning views of Beijing City center. Jing Guang Center is virtually a city within a city. Step into the New World of Beijing at Jing Guang Center and experience a New World of Hospitality!
Location：Located in CBD of Beijing, 5 miles to Beijing Station, 21 miles to Capital Airport, and 5 miles to Tian’an men square.Bus Routes：Take No.9, No.729, No.112, No.115, No.118, No.846, No.855, No.859 Bus and get off at Hu Jia Lou Stop.

THE JIANGUOMEN HOTEL BEIJING

Jianguo Hotel Beijing is situated adjacent to the Beijing diplomatic quarter, in the heart of Beijing Central Business District, just 1 minute walking distance from the metro and 5 minutes walk from the famous Xiushui Market. By car, 10 minutes from Tiananmen Square and Beijing's numerous historical sights and 30 minutes from the Beijing Capital International Airport.
Bus Routes：1、4、9、37、43、48、52、28、802、120、810、703、403、930、938、728、808、特1、SUBWAY

Hutong(lanes/alleys)

What are most fascinating about the modernized Beijing are not the skyscrapers or broad streets, but the winding, secluded hutong, where there are beautiful siheyuan.
It is therefore fitting and proper to call the culture of the ancient capital ‘hutong culture’ or ‘siheyuan culture’.
Beijing used to comprise tens of thousandsof siheyuan of different sizes orderly arranged in rows. The passages between the rows were hutong.
In the Yuan Dynasty, each hutong was as wide as a large three-courtyard quadrangle. It was later divided into many nameless narrower lanes by houses built in it. Hence the saying that goes, ‘there are 3,600 hutong with names, while nameless ones are as many as the hairs on a cow’.
By 1949, there were 6,074 streets and lanes with names, among which were 1,330 hutong, 172 avenues, 111 lanes, 85 streets, 71 alleys, and 37 roads. Streets, lanes and alleys were customarily lumped together as hutong.
Beijing is crisscrossed by thousands of hutong, where there are numerous ‘sweet homes’. That is the main reason why citizens of Beijing are so much attached to them.
The slimmest hutong is Qianshi Hutong in Dashilan Area beyond the Front Gate (qianmen). The narrowest part of it measures only 40 centimeters wide. Some hutong are known for being tortuous. Beixinqiao Hutong, for instance, was said to have nine bends, but it actually had more than twenty; it was later divided into five parts. The lane beyond the Front Gate, also said to have nine bends, actually has thirteen. The names of hutong are like an encyclopedia of the city’s history and folk customs. In recent years, hutong has been developed as a precious tourist resource.
As the shabby old dazayuan (quadrangle shared by several households) are being replaced by modernized buildings, old hutong will be gone too. However, many famous hutong have been preserved as cultural relics reflecting the city’s history as an ancient capital. They are among the remnants of the past of this fast developing city.
The tour of hutong has been developed as a new sightseeing program for foreign tourists. Man-powered tricycles, a means of transport typical of old Beijing, will take them past Shichahai and Yinding Bridge to the drum tower, where they may enjoy a view of the old city crisscrossed by lanes. Then they will be taken to Houhai, where they may visit such ancient hutong as the southern and northern Guanfang Hutong, the big and small Golden Lion Hutong, and Qianhoujing Hutong. They may walk into siheyuan and chat with the inhabitants. Finally, they will be taken along Liuyin Street to the mansion of Prince Gong, known as the Garden of Grand View, to see the houses of nobles and imperial gardens.
Foreign tourists are profuse in their praise for the beauty of hutong. Carrying the age-old culture of Beijing, hutong has eternal charm