How to travel to China on your own without a travel agency. Traveling to China, taking care of your upcoming vacation

There are dozens of Chinese cities behind us. The road from the border with the Russian city of Zabaikalsk, which I crossed by train, to Laos, which I entered on foot. (Don’t worry, I took the bus later).

Experimentally, it was found that, firstly, China is a wonderful country for independent travel, and secondly, it is possible to travel abroad even without knowing the language, although it is still not clear how I managed it. The golden rule of any business, “take it and do it,” also works for free wanderings, “take it and go.”

Don’t let the language factor bother you (they don’t speak English in China), but you shouldn’t relax either. Phrasebooks, guidebooks, basic English (at least to communicate with other foreign travelers) will come in handy. And the rest is details.

How to travel to China on your own?

Visa

Personally, I applied for a Chinese visa through an agency, simply by giving my passport to specially trained people while still in Russia. I won’t say that it was very difficult to submit the documents myself (although at that moment I lived in Kamchatka and agents, among other things, sent documents to Vladivostok, to the representative office), but I had one rule - the start should be easy. China is the first country of the first trip, and even an independent one, also alone. I decided to free myself in some way. Therefore, a passport, photo and money were all that was needed for 30 days in the People's Republic of China. But I extended it on my own, on the spot. The next 30 days were marked by the submission of the same documents.

Weather

China is such a big country that you can’t get away with generalized conclusions about the weather. Decide on your exact location, and then check with eyewitness accounts in this region. Where are you planning: to the Himalayas or Hainan? By the way, I’ve been to Hainan twice, and both times in October. Rumors about local typhoons are not exaggerated. I witnessed flying coconuts and uprooted palm trees the next morning. Although, if now someone asks whether it is possible to go to Hainan in October, I will not dissuade you. Both times I had a great time. The hardworking Chinese planted all the palm trees in place literally the very next day after the hurricane.

Where to live

In hostels. This will provide you with pleasant (read “low”) checks for accommodation, excellent acquaintances among foreigners from all over the world and people who actually speak and understand English, which long stay very relevant in the country. According to my personal observations, hostels in China are some of the best in Asia, with the right atmosphere of general drive for life and new discoveries. Stories like “I worked as a lawyer and then decided to change everything” or “we sold the car and went around the world” are the norm. Plus, your fellow travelers miss white faces and English speech just as much as you do. In China, a white man is a close friend to a white man, if not a relative. And don’t even worry about nonsense like “how can you live in a room for four?”, the main thing is not for fourteen (anything can happen), and you’ll even like the rest. I guarantee it.

Popular destinations

This is also a limitless topic, so I’ll highlight my TOP places in the “other” Asian country: Beijing and Shanghai - looking at the world from the top floors of skyscrapers really puts you in the right mood; (Huangshan and others), Hainan is that same banal tropical island that you dream about from home; Guilin and Yangshuo with their karst hills and lulling rivers, as well as the entire Yunnan province.

Transport

Riding experience Chinese trains can be inserted into your resume as proof of courage and fortitude. How to read in Chinese, namely hieroglyphs, where your train is and when it departs, if you are at a Beijing train station the size of small town and the wrong chosen direction can lead very far not only from the place of departure, but also from the truth as a whole? One fact is that you can travel on Chinese trains no matter what, I would even say despite it. Each time I was the only white face in the entire carriage and they constantly brought me some kind of food, trying to somehow satisfy my curiosity and gawk at the white girl, without being able to otherwise compensate for the language barrier.

Survive

To survive in China, and by survival, as you guessed, I mean getting to the right station and the right train, you need to clearly remember the “three people” rule, which sounds like this: “If you ask a Chinese how to get to the place you need (and , it doesn’t matter if he suddenly answers you in English or reads your phrasebook and gestures), do not go in the indicated direction until at least three people point in the same direction.” Simply put, ask at least three people “how to get there,” even if the first one knows exactly where you need to go and is ready to take you personally. Saying “I don’t know” in China means losing face and is a traditional trait. It’s better to show it wrong, especially to some foreigner, than to goof off and show your ignorance. Always ask again about everything, especially if you are in a hurry.

Otherwise, the safety rules are no different from other countries - stay vigilant and you will be happy on Chinese soil.

Do you want to confess? I still don’t understand how I managed to travel through the whole of China with a backpack on my back. Consequently, the longer I lived in hospitable countries South-East Asia, the more mysterious this Chinese “phenomenon” became for me. It's just that everything in life is simpler than it seems. But this can only be determined experimentally. Good luck!

You can enjoy your holiday in China, regardless of the season. A country with such rich history and culture will definitely find something to offer even the most demanding tourist. Holidays in China in 2019 – where is the best place to go?

Before you ask yourself where to go, think carefully about what you want to see.

Hainan Island

A hotel room on Hainan Island will cost from $28 per night per person. A 15-day vacation with flights and accommodation for two will cost about $2,000.

On the island, service is at the highest level, as in all expensive resorts. But it is here that you can experience the highest service and a wonderful vacation, and all for an affordable price.

Zhujiang Nantian Hot Springs

Ticket price for this unique place will cost about 800 rubles. The park area includes 67 thermal water baths, the temperature of which ranges from 40 to 60 degrees. This is where you can improve your health and relax.

Baths with original filling will be a pleasant surprise for any tourist. If you wish, you can soak in a bathtub strewn with rose petals or enjoy relaxation in a pond with the addition of Chinese herbs and coconut milk. There is a swimming pool on site clean water, which is so nice to swim in on a hot day.

The most popular place in the park area is worth noting the pool with small fish. When immersing the body in water, you can feel them nibbling microscopic particles of dead skin. As a result, the skin is cleansed, becomes smooth and soft, as if after a trip to a beauty salon.

Tropical paradise

Not far from Sanya, on the territory resort area Yalongwan in Hainan province is 15 sq. km. There is a unique tropical park. It was designed to meet the technical requirements of National Forest Parks in China.

Here you can not only relax and breathe in plenty of fresh, clean air. This perfect place for climbers and lovers of green tourism.

In the park you can find semi-deciduous and evergreen forests, including at least 100 species of trees and twice as many plants. Unique world The fauna is striking in its diversity. The dense jungle opens up to the traveler in all its glory, showing the full power of wild nature.

If you wish, here you can ride ostriches, visit suspension bridge, ride on cable car. For ease of movement, tourists are offered eco-mobiles, which allow them to comfortably spend time traveling through the park.

Village of Li and Miao ethnic groups

A place that is especially popular among tourists. There is a huge historical complex on the territory where you can visit temples, a theater, museums, restaurants with excellent cuisine and well-kept huts.

Those who are not indifferent to quality alcoholic drinks have the opportunity to buy original vodka.

If you wish, you can ask the ticket office for a map of the village, this will make it easier to move around and not miss a single attraction.

An interesting theatrical show allows you to better understand the traditions and rituals of nationalities. An ideal production from which you will not get tired or bored.

An excursion to the village will cost about 220 yuan.

Shopping

Shopping enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to purchase high-quality, authentic goods. All kinds of shopping centers, supermarkets, shops, private shops and markets are available to shopaholics.

It is appropriate to bargain at the market and in individual retail stores, thanks to which the discount can reach 50%. If you purchase more than one item, it is also worth asking for a discount.

To enjoy exotic fruits, it is worth visiting the Hong Gan Fruit Market.

Those who don't mind eating delicious fish can visit the Lao Yong Gai fish market. It is better to make a purchase in the morning, when fishing boats are just unloading. Here tourists can not only buy fish and seafood, but also try them in restaurants and eateries. At the same time, even the most budget traveler can enjoy this pleasure.

What to bring from your trip?

• Considering the large deposits of crystal, it is simply necessary to purchase goods made from it in Hainan. If you wish, you can visit the Crystal Museum, where you have a unique opportunity to buy not only crystal objects, but also items made of jade and precious stones.
• It is unforgivable to visit China and not buy silk. In Hainan, you can buy luxurious, top-quality silk products from bed linens to household items. To check the quality of the fabric, one of the threads of the fabric is set on fire. At the same time, it burns without a trace, emitting the smell of burnt hair. A conscientious manufacturer has nothing to hide and will gladly not refuse such a trifle.
• Pearl products. “Mother-of-pearl Hainan diamond” is what pearls are called local residents. Hainan is the leading Chinese exporter of top quality pearls. It is better to make a purchase in a specialized store.
• Lovers of a strong aromatic drink can purchase tea of ​​various varieties. Thanks to the excellent climate, specialists grow tea of ​​the highest quality. It is worth making a purchase in numerous tea houses. Here a tourist can attend a tea ceremony, taste different types of aromatic tea, buy a beautiful tea set or souvenirs.

Shanghai

If you are an avid shopaholic, you urgently need to go to Shanghai. In it, mirrored skyscrapers intertwine with cozy streets. The rhythm of life in this city is vibrant with extraordinary force.

Mount Sheshan

Someone who loves to contemplate the wonderful nature and fabulous landscapes, it is worth visiting Mount Sheshan, which attracts travelers from all over the globe. This place attracts travelers from all over the globe with its wonderful mountains, thickets bamboo scaffolding and original structures at the peak of the mountain. There are many attractions and temples located in the forested area. At the peak, you can visit the Bird Garden, Xiaokunshan Park and Oriental Park. For a comfortable stay of tourists in the forest, you can have a great rest in comfortable hotels.

Every year the government arranges on the top of the mountain interesting events. One of the most interesting is the sand figure festival, which takes place from September until the end of October.

What should I bring?

When planning to visit the mountains, sophisticated tourists recommend purchasing blue tea, lovely orchid or bamboo sprouts.

This is a place for those who want to take a break from the bustle of a huge metropolis, reunite with nature and restore mental strength.

There is no entrance fee to the parks.

Car Museum

On the territory of more than 1 hectare there is a car park, which will appeal to everyone who is not indifferent to the automotive theme.

Rare retro cars are located in five halls, each of which is dedicated to a different theme. There are 22 brands in total, represented by 80 cars. In the museum you can follow the path of cars from the origins to the latest ultra-modern cars. For convenience, you can travel on a comfortable transfer. Those who are interested in the topic of car production can familiarize themselves with the process of creating cars and their videos, which are projected on the wall of the hall.

Longhua Pagoda

A tourist traveling around Shanghai should visit the Longhua Pagoda, which is considered one of the most beautiful religious buildings. This mysterious place was built two thousand years ago and due to its antiquity, entering its territory is strictly prohibited. It is separated from the park by a special path.

The pagoda is regularly restored, so it does not lose its wonderful appearance.

The basis of the pagoda is stone and wood. A 40-meter structure with a high spire of seven floors, each of which is luxuriously decorated with animal figurines. The design of the pagoda according to the Chinese concept does not allow evil spirits to descend to earth.

Having visited temple complex, you can enjoy the scenery of the peach garden. The garden is especially pleasing to the eye in spring, when the flowers bloom.

If you wish, after your walk you can have a snack at a vegetarian restaurant. The price category of a ticket to the temple territory is just over 10 yuan.

Shopping

In Shanghai, shopaholics have the opportunity to visit ultra-modern shopping centers, brand boutiques, market towns and cozy shops.

• Those who love antiques can visit numerous antique shops, where Chinese porcelain figurines at reasonable prices are considered the most popular. One of the popular markets is Xizang Nan Road, where it is convenient to buy both original items and high-quality fakes. Here you can buy jade, bronze, porcelain figurines.
• Lovers of pearls and jewelry made from semi-precious stones will be happy to visit the Fu Eu shopping center, where you can purchase goods in bulk and at excellent prices.
• The shopping center in Shanghai is Nanjing Street, which every tourist must visit. There are more than 600 stores selling goods from world brands. But the price category of the goods is relatively high.
• Those who plan to purchase clothes from world brands at reasonable prices should visit the three-story Sunshine shopping center.
• You can buy exotic animals at the pet market (Tibetskaya St.), where the abundance of birds, fish and animals is surprising in its quantity.

Beijing

It is also worth visiting Beijing, the famous capital of China. Here is the largest square in the world - Tian An Men. You can't ignore the Great Wall of China. It takes a long time to get there, but no one has regretted it yet. And, of course, don’t forget to try the well-known Peking duck.

The summer season is just the time to visit the beaches. The air temperature varies around 40°C, but the humid wind makes the holiday more comfortable.

A two-week vacation in Beijing for 2 people will cost about $1,000, in Shanghai about $1,100.

Mountains

Lovers of fresh air and breathtaking beauty will certainly enjoy the city of Huangshan, where you can visit the mountain of the same name. Only here you can enjoy the magnificent landscapes, including 72 peaks.

One of the most popular places In the mountains, hot springs are considered among tourists, which local residents have been using for 1000 years. Stable temperature allows you to both take a bath and drink from the source. Water will improve the health of those who suffer from diseases of the digestive tract and nervous system.

Rare species of birds and animals living in the mountain range, as well as an abundance of natural resources provide an opportunity to enjoy great holiday and restore not only physical, but also spiritual strength.

Happy Valley of Beijing

The price range of the entrance ticket ranges from 260 yuan per person. Happiness Park is located on an area of ​​350,000 sq. km. A distinctive feature of the park is its division into zones. There are 9 of them in total. You can have a great time in the Spanish Zone, City of Gold, Adventure Mountain, Sunny Beach, Cartoon City, Shengri-La Forest, Happiness Train and Water park. Thanks to qualified specialists, here you can enjoy your holiday on modern attractions.

Shopping

One of the features of shopping in Beijing is bargaining. This is not only a fun activity, but also an integral part of it. You should start bidding with the lowest price, gradually increasing it, reaching the desired compromise with the seller. A good mood and a smile will allow you to achieve maximum results.

By visiting Wangfujin Street, where many different supermarkets and shopping centers are concentrated, you can buy whatever your heart desires at the best prices.

On major public holidays, most stores in Beijing announce sales. Basically it's October 1st, Chinese New Year(1st of May). You can also count on seasonal discounts that can reach 90%.

Sometimes sellers indicate a double price on the price tag, separated by a line. The upper amount is the true price of the product, the second figure indicates the amount of the discount on another product. That is, the next time you buy an item in this store, you will receive the discount indicated on the price tag earlier in the bottom line.

What to buy?

In Beijing, medicinal mixtures, tinctures and various potions, for which Chinese specialists are famous, are especially popular. Tourists should pay attention to ginseng, antlers, and gelatin, which is extracted from donkey skin. Thanks to ginseng, according to Chinese belief, vital energy is maintained. Antlers help cleanse the blood, strengthen bones and improve visual acuity. Those who plan to strengthen their immunity should purchase gelatin.

Silk

Lovers of high-quality silk fabrics should take a look at Xiushuijie Street, where the best fabric manufacturers are located. You can also visit the silk market.

Most likely, one vacation is not enough to appreciate all the sights of China. Having been here once, you will definitely want to return. At a minimum, visit places that have already been visited and, at a maximum, look at something new and unusual.

4 “don’ts” in China

1. In China you cannot pay in euros or dollars. Only Chinese currency is acceptable. If you break the laws, you may be subject to criminal liability. By offering a merchant to pay in European currency, he has the right to call the police.
2. Criticism of the Chinese government and Communist Party is considered an insult. Such a person will be immediately deported from the country. The government does not take into account the tourist’s ignorance and takes advantage of it.
3. Given the chronic failure to comply with traffic rules, it is important for tourists to be extremely careful on the roads. Therefore, one cannot be careless, relying only on the rules.
4. You cannot stick chopsticks into the rice, as this is a funeral tradition of the people. When visiting the Chinese, this act is regarded as wishing death to the owner.

What to take with you?

• It is worth noting the fact that in many Chinese establishments, cutlery familiar to Europeans may not be available. A budget tourist who did not take care of their availability will have to eat with Chinese chopsticks. If this option does not suit you, it is better to take a fork, spoon and knife with you. Before the flight, these items must be transferred to your luggage, since if your handbag is checked, getting on board the plane can be problematic.
• Medicines. In particular, this applies to drugs that improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Some Chinese dishes that are not familiar to Europeans can create problems. It is also important to take anti-allergy medications.
• A phrase book or a special application on a smartphone that allows a tourist to move freely will be extremely useful when traveling. In the second case, you should give preference to a program that is not interconnected with the network, since you will have to pay a lot of money for it.

Chinese cuisine

Peking duck

One of the most popular dishes in China is Peking duck. Most people imagine a fragrant, crispy-skinned bird. In fact, after a long marinating process, the duck is baked and cut into thin pieces. In addition to meat, the dish is served with rice cakes, green onions, several sauces and cucumber slices. He eats the dish with his hands. Take a rice cake, put a slice of meat, onion and cucumber into it. Thus, you get a mini-shawarma. In a decent establishment, this procedure can be performed by a waiter. However, it is not customary to give any tips.

Fruits in caramel

This dessert is the national dish of the country. If you buy a sweet on the street, it will be significantly different from its restaurant counterpart.

You can buy tangerines and apples from vendors on the street. In the restaurant there are pieces of melon and pineapple.

Hubei hot dry noodles

One of the gastronomic calling cards of China, not inferior to Peking duck, is dry Hubei noodles. The dish consists of long pasta, reminiscent of spaghetti. The noodles are based on sesame paste, various spices, and soy sauce. Sometimes herbs and vegetables are added to dishes. A tourist who prefers to try original Chinese dishes should pay attention to dry hot noodles, which have a great taste and a golden hue.

A little about security

China is considered safe country, if you follow the necessary rules. For example, for a crime committed (murder or rape) it provides the death penalty.

You should not enter into conflicts with the local population, as tougher penalties apply to tourists.

It is worth understanding that theft in the country is punishable by a long sentence or even the death penalty. People can only be robbed in cheap hotels or secluded and lively areas.

In case of illness, a traveler can go to a clinic, where tourists are often served at English language. You can pay for services in cash or purchase a coupon that allows you to consult with a doctor. It is worth noting the fact that guests of the country must carefully monitor the sterility of instruments. Otherwise, instead of resting, you can get hepatitis.

The State of China is located on an area of ​​more than 9 million square meters. km and in terms of scale confidently ranks 3rd in the world, behind Canada and Russian Federation. Rich cultural heritage The PRC attracts travelers from all over the world and does not leave any tourist indifferent.

Sights of China

How to travel to China on your own

China for a tourist is a world of contrasts, a combination of the splendor of a modern metropolis, a carefree and expensive life with the modest life of farmers and market traders of trinkets. The pace is fast here modern life the best way combined with ancient history.

You can go to the Celestial Empire as part of a group, and then some of the organizational issues will be resolved by the travel agent. Sophisticated tourists who prefer to travel independently should take into account some simple details of the trip:

Book accommodation or hotel rooms in advance.

Apply for a visa and buy insurance.

Buy plane tickets.

At independent travel In the PRC it is necessary to understand that 80% of the population does not speak foreign languages. To avoid problems with the language barrier, it is advisable to raise your level of Chinese to at least HSK1.

Registration for training

Free Trial Lessons

Every week we offer free trial lessons for adults and children. During the lesson you will become familiar with the basics of the Chinese language, its phonetics, hieroglyphs and learn your first phrase. We regularly conduct program presentations for parents of students.

Level determination

If you or your child have already learned Chinese before, then before starting classes you must undergo an interview to determine the level. Then we will select a suitable group and schedule a trial lesson in it.

We have received your application. Thank you!

Something went wrong! try again

Route around China: where is the best place to go?

Popular tourist destinations include modern and traditional types of recreation:

SPA resorts
There are many professional health centers, where the developments of modern Western medicine are effectively combined with unique methods of Chinese therapy. You will be offered therapeutic mud baths, aromatherapy, acupuncture, herbal treatments, wraps, moxibustion, balneotherapy, acupuncture, inhalations, and various massages. People go to China to improve the functions of the musculoskeletal system, to treat cardiovascular and gastrointestinal pathologies, the respiratory and nervous systems, rheumatism and arthritis.

Ski resorts
Fans of active pastime will appreciate the infrastructure and high service ski resorts Baidahe, Jinguetan and Yabuli. Modern tracks corresponding international standards, allow both professionals and amateurs to actively engage in sports.

Ecotourism
There are numerous historical monuments architecture, ancient temples, places of pilgrimage Sacred Mountain Huashan, National parks in the area of ​​Sanqingshan and Jade Mountain with a huge variety of rare plants and animals, National Park Volun with the natural habitat of giant pandas. Most areas are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Dive resorts
For exciting diving, the surroundings of the city of Sanya are suitable - Xiaodonghai, Yalongwan and Dadonghai bays, Wuzhizhou and Sidao islands. Among the diversity of marine fauna you can find starfish, many fancy fish, large jellyfish, and more than 50 varieties of corals. Water South China Sea so transparent that underwater landscapes can be viewed at a depth of up to 25 meters.

Sights of China

Great Chinese Wall - one of the seven modern wonders of the world, the largest structure on the planet. Climbing the wall will seem like an exciting walk only for physically prepared tourists. Assess your body's capabilities in advance, as a large number of steps can take all your strength, and the excursion will not be enjoyable. An alternative could be a funicular.

Shaolin Monastery. Here you can observe with your own eyes the life of the monks, see their daily hours-long training of strength and spirit, as well as demonstrations of martial arts.

Tropical island of Hainan. Ideal place for a relaxing beach holiday with snow-white sandy shore and crystal clear water. Admire the beauty underwater world with vibrant landscapes, unusual fauna and coral thickets, lovers of diving and snorkeling will be able to enjoy it.

Thermal springs Nantian. In the territory health complex more than 40 warm water pools, the available temperature range allows everyone to find their comfort zone.

Oceanarium on Henkin Island. The world's largest aquarium houses the rarest specimens of the deep sea. Here tourists can feed crocodiles and look at the most terrible and unusual animals up close.

Monkey Island. The trip to the island along the longest and most picturesque cable car in China can already be considered an additional excursion. And on the island, tourists will find a sparkling pearl museum and jewelry stores.

Shanghai. Arriving in Shanghai, tourists should definitely see the Temple of the Guardian God of the city and the Temple of the Jade Buddha, as well as take a walk along Nanjing Street (Shanghai Arbat).

Hong Kong. Cultural and historical center with many galleries, exhibitions and museums: horse racing, police, medical sciences, wax figures Madame Tussauds, Tsui Art Museum, Lau Uk Folklore House Museum, Pao Art Center and other attractions.

Important and useful little things for tourists

Additional information will make your stay in the country easier and help avoid embarrassing situations for both beginners and experienced tourists:

Time. The difference with the Moscow time zone is +5 hours.

Payment system. In modern shopping centers, hotels, restaurants accept payment bank cards almost all payment systems. For small purchases, it is best to have cash in national currency. The most profitable currency converter is located at the airport.

Transport. Traveling around China is quite easy with high speed trains(350 km/h), tickets should be purchased in advance, especially if the planned trip falls on a weekend or holiday. Car rental is only possible with a driver, as international driving licenses are not valid here. To travel short distances, you can use taxi services; prices are reasonable. It is important to have an address written in Chinese with you; almost no one speaks English.

Shopping. The finest natural silk and world-famous Chinese porcelain are among the most popular and expensive souvenirs. Exclusive gifts include pearl jewelry, healing tinctures of ants, snakes, scorpions, and Chinese Maotai vodka. Expensive gifts should only be purchased in stores or factories. You can bargain and talk about reducing prices not only in the market, but even in large stores.

Weather. When planning a trip to China, you must take into account that the weather in different areas can vary significantly, even at the same time of year. Depending on the location, some provinces may experience freezing temperatures while other areas may be exposed to the scorching sun.

A trip to China will allow you to immerse yourself in the ancient traditions and unusual culture of this country and see stunning landscapes national parks and mountain ranges, visit the largest architectural monuments, palaces of emperors, ancient temples, pagodas and museums, and also appreciate the dishes local cuisine, which has preserved thousand-year-old traditions and secrets.

A nice bonus only for our readers - a discount coupon when paying for tours on the website until January 31:

• AF500guruturizma - promotional code for 500 rubles for tours from 40,000 rubles
• AFTA2000Guru - promotional code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Thailand from 100,000 rubles.
• AF2000KGuruturizma - promotional code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Cuba from 100,000 rubles.

IN mobile application Travelata has a promotional code - AF600GuruMOB. He gives a discount of 600 rubles on all tours from 50,000 rubles. Download the application for and

So, for example, a double room in the Suba Hotel Xi'an Dongmen 2* per night costs 428 rubles, a room in the Xi'an Forest City Hotel 4* 1309 rubles per night, a room in the Golden Flower Hotel Xi'an by Shangri- La 5* for 2783 rubles. In general, the choice is huge, and the prices are quite affordable.

The first day. On your own in Xi'an

Xi'an is an amazing city that has more than 3,000 years of history. It is rightfully considered one of the oldest cities in China. This is where the Great Silk Road began. You will spend two days here. We begin our tour of the city with the most famous sights.

We catch a taxi and go to the Big Goose Pagoda, which is located in the Qien Temple. Here you will see beautiful gardens and unique architectural buildings. Many of which have been restored after repeated destruction. The Pagoda itself, 64 meters high, has 7 tiers. From the top there is an excellent panoramic view throughout the city, where many other unique attractions are concentrated. An observant tourist will notice that the Pagoda is at an angle that increases over time. This is how the pagoda received the unspoken name “Chinese Leaning Tower of Pisa”.

Big Goose Pagoda is a great place for walking and contemplating beauty. Be sure to check out the Peony Pavilion. Near the Pagoda, the fountain show begins in the evening. A very beautiful sight. Not far from the fountain garden is the Narru New Year shopping center, where you can have a snack at the Hot Pot restaurant. In these restaurants, food is prepared right at your table, which has a heating element built into it.

After a short rest, we again use a taxi and go to the inspection of the Fortress City Wall, the main task of which was to protect the city. Here are the most famous and significant attractions of Xi'an - the Drum and Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, Great Mosque.

We recommend starting your inspection from the southern gate. Here you can see the Drum Show, which takes place daily. After the show, you will be able to take a photo with its participants dressed in national costumes and even knock on these same drums. Tourists are treated with respect here.

The length of the wall is 12 km, so you can rent a bicycle on site. Paid entrance. In close proximity to the South Gate there are the Bell and Drum Towers. The Muslim Quarter is also close. The Silk Road directly influenced the fact that two religions are practiced here - Islam and Buddhism.

In the Muslim Quarter you will see the Grand Mosque, which is one of the four largest in China, and which was built in the 18th century. The Muslim Quarter is a fantastic place, colorful and a must-see. The shopping streets in the quarter deserve special attention. Here you can buy souvenirs made of stone, wood, and silk.

Second day

To visit Xi'an and not see the eighth wonder of the world - the Terracotta Army - would be simply an unforgivable mistake. You can get there from Xi'an by one of the buses that depart from the railway station every five minutes. Look for the inscription on the bus “Terracotta army”. The journey will take no more than an hour. The bus will stop nearby ticket offices, that's what you need. Local guides who speak reasonable English also offer their services here.

Before you reach the entrance, you will have to pass by souvenir shops, eateries and other places that will be all possible ways make you spend money.

Now that the path has been completed for you, three pavilions will be open on the territory of the museum. To see the Terracotta Army, go to the first pavilion. The height of each warrior in the army reaches about 195 cm, and the weight of the sculpture is 135 kg. The faces of all the sculptures are directed to the east, towards the defeated states.

After visiting the eighth wonder of the world, go to the bus stop, get on the bus and after three stops ask the driver to stop in Lintong. The Huaqing hot springs will be interesting here. Don't forget to prepare a note with hieroglyphs for the driver or explain yourself in English. Just let us know that you need Hot springs. Why is this place a must visit? It is here that the garden and park assembly is located, which occupies an honorable place among the hundred best in China.

You will have to pay about 110 yuan to enter. This place is associated with a romantic but sad love story between the beautiful Yang Guifei and Emperor Xuanzong. It was for his beloved that the emperor built beautiful park and baths.

Today, next to the Lotus Pond, you can see the Tree of Love, to which thousands of ribbons are tied. The hot springs are also operational, so you can wash your face with healing water. Now is the time to appreciate the place from the observation deck on Mount Lishan, which is located close to the park.

Now you can return to Xi'an with a sense of accomplishment to taste the famous local dumplings. We recommend checking out the restaurant, which is located between the Bell and Drum towers. You definitely won’t pass by this place, because at the entrance you can see a huge dumpling.

Don't stay up late, because tomorrow you will have a flight to Guilin.

The third day. On your own in Guilin

How to get there

In order not to worry about the transfer, contact the administrator of your hotel and order a taxi. The flight to Guilin takes 1 hour 50 minutes. What is remarkable about this place? Unique nature, unique scenery, Lijiang River, karst mountains. In addition, it was here that the third episode of Star Wars and the film The Painted Veil were filmed.

From Guilin Airport you can take an express bus to the city. If your hotel is further away than the final stop, then after the bus, take a taxi.

Where to stay

From budget options accommodation can be noted hotels:

• Guilin Ling Hong Express Hotel (RUB 427 per night)
• Guilin 68° Hotel North Train Station Branch (RUB 517 per night)
• Guilin Muslim Hotel (RUB 662 per night)
• Yu Long Hotel (RUB 669 per night)
• Guilin Hetai Hotel (RUB 675 per night)

If price doesn’t really matter to you and you don’t want to skimp on comfort, then we recommend the following hotels:

• Grand Bravo Hotel (RUB 4,045 per night)
• Guilin Golden Oriole Hotel (RUB 4,052 per night)
• Sheraton Guilin Hotel (RUB 4,390 per night)
• Shangri-La Hotel, Guilin (RUB 4,587)
• The White House Hotel Guilin (RUB 8,442)

Now that you have checked into the hotel and had a little rest, we recommend visiting iconic place Guilin - Elephant Trunk Mountain (Xianbishan), which is located in the southern part of the city center. This place, whose height is 100 meters, received this name because the outline of the mountain resembles an elephant that seems to have lowered its trunk into the river. Very interesting place. This is where the Lee River joins the Peach Blossom River.

According to legend, in this place a herd of elephants descended from heaven to earth. Beautiful views and the picturesque nature so amazed the elephants that they wanted to stay here, but this thereby angered the Jade Emperor, who ordered them to return immediately. The herd returned, but the emperor was missing one elephant.

Enraged, he took out his sword and stabbed the animal in the back. The elephant turned to stone. Today, tourists can visit this place by taking a ferry. The ferry departs from the terminal on the street. Nanhuanlu. At the top of the hill you can see a brick pagoda. Its shape resembles the hilt of that same sword.

Near the park you can see the Hezhong tourism travel agency. We recommend stopping by here to purchase a tour to the rice terraces. Of course, you can get to them on your own, but then you will have to make a transfer, and the journey itself takes more than three hours. In general, many tourists prefer organized excursion. You will have to pay about 170-180 yuan. The bus will pick you up from your hotel and then take you back. Don't forget to leave the hotel's business card with the employee to avoid any misunderstandings, as English will not help you here.

Waterfall at the Lijiang Waterfall Hotel

Don’t rush to leave the park, because an evening walk along the picturesque complex of ponds and unusual bridges will bring a lot of pleasure. Be sure to go to the hotel
Lijiang Waterfall Hotel, which is located in the center. In the evening, whole crowds of tourists and locals gather here to see how the wall turns into an amazing waterfall for ten minutes. Another moment and the waterfall again becomes the wall of a five-star hotel.

If you are planning to extend your stay here for a couple of days, then be sure to visit the Reed Flute Cave and the Seven Stars Park. In the cave you will be able to contemplate not only magnificent halls, the beauty of which is difficult to describe, but also one of the most beautiful underground lakes.

Fourth day

Today we go to Yangshuo to see with our own eyes all the beauty of the karst hills and take a walk along the Li River. To get to the city you can purchase a cruise for 420 yuan per person. You won’t find anything cheaper; there is only one company that organizes them. The journey will take four hours.

By bus independent tourists will get there in an hour. We recommend not to waste your money and time and choose this option.

According to local residents, the area between Yangdi and another village of Xinping is the most picturesque and fascinating. If you look closely at the Chinese 20 yuan note, you will notice the Li River, karst hills and lush vegetation.

To get there, go to the bus station to buy tickets to Yangshuo. The fare is about 15 yuan. Having reached the city, you will need to change at the same bus station to a bus that will go to Xinping or Yangdi.

The bus that goes to Yangdi will take you to the pier, where you can rent a raft designed specifically for tourist trips. Such rafting will cost a tourist about 300 yuan.

Be careful, because for less money, cunning guides reduce the walking time from an hour and a half to 30-40 minutes and drop you off far from the end point. So, if you fall for a scam, you will have to get to Xinping on your own and spend a lot of time and effort on this. In general, we recommend not saving too much on your trip and paying money for a full-fledged rafting trip. The price usually includes a transfer from Xinping Pier to the bus station.

The guide can also stop for lunch at one of the local cafes. No one promises that it will be presentable, but they will feed you tasty and inexpensive. In general, if you feel slightly or not very hungry, then agree.

A three-hour walk from Yangdi to Xinping will delight you beautiful scenery and a unique atmosphere. To return to Yangshuo, take the regular bus, the fare is about 7 yuan.

Moon Hill

Before leaving for Guilin, do not deny yourself the pleasure of seeing the miracle of nature - Moon Hill, which has a unique shape. You can get to Moon Hill by bus, just 15 minutes and you’re there. A ticket to Moon Hill costs 15 yuan.

You will have to make the climb yourself, since there is no lift, but for the money, a stunning view awaits you at the very top of the hill. It's worth it! Also, prepare 5 yuan for the grandmothers, who will accompany you until you buy water or any other drink from them. Now go back to the train station and take the bus to Guilin.

Fifth day

We are going to the ethno-village of Huanglo to the long-haired Yao

We use this day to see the Longji rice terraces, especially since we thought of everything in advance and bought a tour from the Hezhong tourism agency. In the morning, a bus will pick you up and go to the Huanglo ethno-village, where representatives of the Yao people live.

In this village, girls never cut their hair, and yet their hair is really beautiful and thick. For residents, this is the key to long life and wealth. What is also surprising is that rich hair color can be found even among elderly representatives of Yao; gray hair is unheard of here. One can only envy this.

Representatives of the Guinness Book of Records recorded the maximum hair length of one lady living in Huanglo, which was 2.1 meters. In general, when travelers get to this village, they envy silently, and sometimes they don’t even restrain their emotions.

Previously, traditions were strictly observed here, so only the girl’s husband could see her loose hair. Today, this tradition is rarely remembered, so for a fee, village residents will not only let your hair down for you, but will also happily pose for the camera. It’s not for nothing that they say that money spoils people.

All the girls are talented needlewomen, so the souvenir business is developed. You can buy things here self made. Here, next to Juanluo, you can already see rice fields.

Trip to Ping An village (rice terraces)

The next village you will visit is called Ping An. If you go on your own, you will have to pay for entry. For organized tourists, admission is usually included in the price of the tour, so there is no need to pay anything additional. The distance from Guilin to the village is about 100 km. To get to the place, you will have to transfer to another bus, designed specifically for driving along mountain serpentine roads; a specially trained driver is included with the bus.

This concerns the program of the purchased tour. If you are persistent and decide to explore the area on your own, then you need a bus that goes to Heping. It’s easy to find one at the bus station. From Heping you can get to the village entrance by car. When you reach the entrance, you will have a difficult choice between two routes.

Packet-goers have only one option - to transfer to a bus that goes to the Ping An rice terraces. Local residents gave them the name Dragon Ridge. The land for rice fields began to be cultivated more than 800 years ago. At that time, the Yuan Dynasty ruled.

To say that it was a titanic work is to say nothing. It took centuries for the plan to be realized, and today a unique landscape opens up to travelers. There is even something unearthly about it. On the terraces you can find two viewing platforms - Nine Dragons and Five Tigers and the Landscape of the Seven Stars accompanying the Moon. Get to observation platforms You will have to go on your own, climbing the stairs.

In addition to rice, tea is grown here, so do not deny yourself the pleasure of purchasing it at a local stall. Freshly picked tea leaves will be dried and packaged right in front of you. After exploring and purchasing souvenirs, you will be asked to board a bus and be taken back to the hotel in the evening.

Sixth day. On your own in Shanghai

How to get there

It's time to go to Shanghai. It is better to purchase tickets in advance. You can easily get there on board a Shanghai Airlines plane. There are several ways to get from Pudong Airport to the city center: taxi, bus, high-speed train Maglev Train, which reaches speeds of up to 430 km/h. Maglev goes to LongYang Road Subway Station Line 2. Perhaps this is the best option. The fare is 50 yuan, but there is an opportunity to save.

Present your air tickets when purchasing and you will receive a 20% discount. You will be there in 7 minutes. Once you arrive at the final stop, you will need to change to the metro or take a taxi to get to the center itself. If you choose the metro, after 5 meters you will see metro line 2. The trip will take about 10 minutes. If you prefer a taxi, then ask the driver to turn on the meter, it will be much cheaper. If the meter refuses to turn on, the fixed amount should not exceed 80 yuan.

Where to stay

• Baolong Homelike Hotel (Zhongshan Branch) 2* from 1039 RUR. per night
• Shanghai Amersino Hotel 3* from RUB 1,240 per night
• Jitai Hotel (Shanghai Train Station South Square) 3* from 1353 rub. per night
• FX Shanghai Liuying 4* from 2006 rub. per night
• Golden River-view Hotel Shanghai from RUB 2,884. per night
• Grand Mercure Shanghai Central (Formerly.Grand Mercure Shanghai Zhongya)5* from 4500 rub. per night
• JI Hotel Shanghai Railway Station West Tianmu Road 4* from 7153 rub. per night

These hotels are located very well. Nearby there is the Shanghai Railway Station metro stop and the central train station.

After checking into the hotel and a short rest, we recommend going to Old city(Old Town). To get to the place, use the metro. You need purple line 10, Yuyuan Garden. In the Old City, we recommend visiting the Garden of Joy (Yuyuan Garden). The entrance ticket costs from 30 to 40 yuan, depending on the time of year.

This garden, located in the old part of Shanghai, was founded more than 400 years ago by the Pan Yundan family, or rather by a son who wanted his parents to spend their days in complete peace and happiness. The rich have their own quirks, but the idea was a success, although it took more than 20 years and all the savings. Later, the guild of Shanghai merchants would buy this garden. Today this park is one of the main attractions of Shanghai and causes indescribable delight among visitors.

In the park you can leisurely enjoy the pond with blooming lotuses, gazebos, terraces and, of course, the picturesque “Bridge of Nine Turns”. According to legend, by walking across it, you can cleanse yourself of evil spirits, whose entry to the bridge is prohibited. The Usintin Tea House is located right on the bridge. We also recommend visiting the Temple of the City Gods.

Spend today in this park and leisurely enjoy its charm, beauty and splendor. Near the park you will find many cafes and souvenir shops.

The Bund embankment and the Pearl of the East TV tower

If time permits and you have the desire, you can get to The Bund embankment and the Oriental Pearl TV tower. On the waterfront you can take stunning photos of the city's skyscrapers. It is located near metro line 10, East Nanjing Rd station. From the metro, move towards the river. Huangpu.

The Oriental Pearl Tower is located one subway stop from the embankment, near Lujiazui Station Line 2. You can also visit the famous aquarium here. On the way back, we recommend stopping by the railway station at the pre-sale ticket hall, especially since the hotel is located in close proximity.

You can buy tickets to Suzhou here tomorrow. Take the G train, it will get you there in just 25 minutes and the ticket costs about 40 yuan. There are cheaper options, but the journey will take longer than an hour. Keep in mind that you will need to present your passport at the ticket office, as tickets are issued in personal names.

Seventh day. To Suzhou on your own

Why is Suzhou a must-see? Yes, because here you can enjoy the splendor of the famous gardens, of which in the 16th and 17th centuries there were about 280. Today there are much fewer, about 69, but this is more than enough for one day. The city itself is more than 2.5 thousand years old, and its historical part is part of the monuments World Heritage. In general, there is a lot to see and be impressed by. Suzhou is also a silk center. Well, how can we resist here?

After arriving at the station in Suzhou, we transfer to bus No. 5, which departs from the station and goes to the Panmen Gate (“Gate of the Curled Dragon”). Travel time is about 50 minutes, ticket price is 1 yuan. Panmen was once part of the wall. Today we can see the already restored landmark.

A huge amount of work was done and at least $2 million was spent. Thanks to these investments, the area was also beautified: trees and flowers were planted, the pond where carp live today was cleaned, and lighting fixtures were installed. While walking, you will easily find the Ruiguant Pagoda, which in ancient times housed a Buddhist stupa made of pearls.

Fisherman's Garden and Wangshiyuan

Wangshiyuan is one of the most popular gardens in Suzhou. Here architecture and nature, impeccability and grace come together. In the pavilions you can see the interiors of previous centuries, and in the center of the garden, visitors can admire the beauty of the picturesque pond, which is framed by beautiful plants and stones. You can also do it in Wanshiyuan beautiful pictures in the Bansai tree garden, on an arched bridge, which has the lyrical name “Leading to Serenity.” In summer you can visit the garden even at night, so don’t miss this opportunity.

The next must-see garden is Lion Grove, the distinctive feature of which is a pile of stones that have a certain appearance (taikhushi). Several decades are needed to “grow” such stones. To achieve a certain look, it was necessary to make holes in ordinary stones and place them in the lake. Over the years, these stones took on very unusual shapes. In general, there is something to see and be surprised by. The Lion Grove Garden is definitely a must see. Ticket price is 30 yuan.

Now is the time to go to the Garden of the Humble Official or Administrator, which covers an area of ​​5 hectares. Of course, a few hours are not enough to explore it; it’s better to set aside a whole day, but if you don’t have much time, then during this time you can see quite a lot here.

Construction of the garden was started more than 600 years ago by an official removed from government affairs for corruption. He worked on its creation for about 20 years, and today it has a unique design and unique beauty. If you visit the garden in summer, you will find a lotus festival, and in the spring, an azalea festival. Admission ticket costs 70 yuan.

If you’re not in a hurry to catch the train, you can walk to the train station and be sure to stop by the “85” confectionery to brighten up your day with delicious pastries and aromatic coffee.

Eighth day

Travel to Chinese Venice on your own – Zhouzhuang

Today we'll go take a look Chinese Venice– the city of Zhouzhuang, which has a history of almost a thousand years. You can get to it by bus from Suzhou, so first we’ll take the comfortable G train. There is a bus station not far from the railway station. The fare is 17 yuan. Travel time from Suzhou to Zhouzhuang is about an hour.

If the road is not tiring and you are full of energy, then from the final stop to the Old Town you can walk or take a taxi if you are not considering this option. You need to pay 100 yuan for access to the attraction. The old city, after the noisy and dynamic Shanghai, will surprise you with its regularity and silence, especially if your trip takes place on a weekday. Unlike Venice, the local canals are narrower, and the passing boats are steered by local women.

We recommend not to miss the opportunity to explore the city from the water. The cost of renting a local gondola is 100 yuan. That's how much a 25 minute walk costs. If you're lucky, they'll even let you steer and sing something folk and very sad, about love, probably. But for love, or rather for singing, you will have to pay extra. No romance.

After enjoying the walk, you can go explore the city and the life of the local residents. Be sure to check out the Key Bridge. If you are observant, you will understand that local residents receive their main income from private transportation along canals, the restaurant and souvenir business. The most interesting thing is that men here are engaged exclusively in intellectual work. Women get the hardest part – physical work. Maybe that's why they sing such sad songs?

If you want to eat, you will find many places, but whether you dare to try something is another question. Keep in mind that water for cooking is taken from the same canal where clothes are washed and other household chores are done. No, of course, the water is first boiled, and, as the locals say, after that it acquires a unique taste (who would doubt it), but the choice is always yours.

If you have already seen everything and don’t want to stay overnight to see the stunning sunset, we recommend that you hurry up, because the last bus to Suzhou leaves at 17.10, and to Shanghai 40 minutes earlier.

Ninth day. Self-guided walks in Shanghai

Today you can take a walk in French Quarter. You can get there via Red Line 1, Shanxi Road. This place is very atypical for a metropolis; here you can stroll peacefully and feel its romantic atmosphere. If you have been to Europe, you will recognize its appearance - cozy cafes with the cutlery we are used to, and pastry shops, paving stone roads and nicely decorated balconies. Despite the name, not only the French lived in the quarter, but also Russian emigrants.

The remaining time can be spent exploring the sights that you have noted for yourself, but have not yet had time to see or go shopping. We recommend viewing and visiting the Shanghai Circus and Zoo, the Temple of the Jade Buddha, the Pushkin monument, and the Museum of the Chinese Communist Party.

If you are interested in items from fashionable global and local brands, we recommend Grand Mall. On 7 floors you are sure to find something for yourself and your loved ones. There is also a supermarket where you can buy delicious fruits and vegetables, and the choice is simply huge. Grand Mall is located nearby Lujiazui Subway Station.

We hope that our route around China will help you plan your 9 days correctly and get a lot of pleasant emotions!

The long-awaited vacation has begun. Unexpectedly for myself, I was left without a travel companion - my companion was unable to participate in the planned trip at the last moment.

But I decided not to cancel anything and go to conquer China alone, a decision I didn’t regret for a minute.

And here I am with my two suitcases waiting for check-in to begin at the Minsk airport. Until I got on the plane, the boredom of waiting was stronger than the fear. I wasn’t worried about the plane ride, I was worried about whether I would be able to navigate the huge Beijing airport. I admit, once I was there, fear took over for a moment, but, having pulled myself together, I found a taxi rank. I stood in a short line, showed the taxi driver the address (I had booked the hotel in Beijing, as well as the air ticket, in advance on the website BiletyPlus.ru) and off I went. By the way, in China it is very good hotels: the price is quite low, and the atmosphere and service are at the highest level.

People call this skyscraper “Pants”

I spent my first day in Beijing in Forbidden City, the largest palace complex peace. After standing in a long line, I found myself in a place where mere mortals were once prohibited from entering. The retribution was terrible: their heads were cut off or boiled in a cauldron (unless, of course, mortals were servants of emperors or ministers). The tour took me about 4 hours, and to be honest, it wasn't much fun. It’s good that I downloaded the audio tours in Russian onto the player in advance, otherwise a tour in Chinese would have quickly tired me.

I also took a walk through Yiheyuan Park. Most The territory there is occupied by water; visitors move along bridges. Since the borders are not fenced, and there are a lot of people, it was quite scary to walk. My random companion and I rented a boat. By the way, it is in this park that they organize legendary walks on a stone ship.

In Beijing I visited main street cities. Here are the most expensive shops and boutiques, as well as the world's largest screen, located exactly above the heads of passers-by. In addition, fountains are built into the asphalt, which can work at any time.

I lived not far from the Silk Market and became a frequent witness to entire performances with pseudo-departures of buyers, their “comebacks” and long speeches convincing that it was still necessary to reduce the cost of goods. Here I have perfectly mastered the art of trading: they tell you the price, you lower it N times (depending on what you are fighting for, i.e. bargaining), then you listen to reproaches, say “bye-bye”, they catch up with you and sell you for your price.

But on the Yabaolu shopping street it is not customary to bargain until the last minute, they say, traders immediately set the minimum price. By the way, most of them speak Russian quite well.

Next it's time cultural program: I bought a ticket to the legendary Acrobat Show in Beijing. The ticket was not the cheapest (I sat on the 6th row and this event cost me $100). But it was an incredible spectacle: very expensive costumes, stunning scenery, and what can we say about the skills of the acrobats! A dozen dancers on one bicycle, incredible support, but most of all I liked the huge ball that was installed on the stage - three motorcyclists were spinning circles inside it at once! I saw with my own eyes the wonders of human grace and plasticity. It was an incredible spectacle that was worth the money. I really liked it! If fate ever brings me to Beijing again, I will definitely go again.

In Beijing I also visited the zoo. The vast territory contains hundreds of species of animals, but of course the panda bears touched me the most. By the way, you can even pick up baby pandas, of course, by paying. Near the zoo, on the same site, there is a dolphinarium.

At a tea ceremony in Beijing, I was offered 12 types of tea. For some reason the cups are not washed here, they were simply doused with boiling water right in front of us. This is probably an element of the local tea ceremony. We were seated at a special wooden table and took turns pouring the aromatic drink into tiny red clay cups. Despite the fact that the tea was steeped for a very short time, it was quite strong and tasty. What I liked most was the vanilla flavored tea.

By the way, about tea. In any public place in Beijing, guests are always served a cup of hot and invigorating drink.

And, of course, any lunch in a restaurant begins with tea and fruit. Restaurants in China have rotating hanging tables so that you don’t have to reach for your piece, knocking over all the salads along the way. Portions are small but filling. On my first day in Beijing, I ordered Peking duck. They cooked it right in front of me, there was little meat in it, and they chopped it up to boot. Leather is considered the most valuable; it is eaten with sugar, but I didn’t dare.

Perhaps what impressed me most was the restaurant where you only pay for the entrance (about 18 yuan). At the entrance, guests take off their shoes and are given slippers. Visitors dine in cozy gazebos, surrounded on all sides by water, and passage through the restaurant is carried out along small bridges. Moreover, you can curtain it in order to hide from prying eyes. And then the real feast of the belly begins: you can take food in any quantity, as much as your heart (but most importantly, your stomach) wants. They serve delicious sushi, seafood, sweets, beer, sake. The restaurant is open intermittently and you can’t sit there for more than two hours; of course, you can’t take takeaway food either.

Of course, I wanted to look at the building of the legendary Bolshoi National Theater. The entrance to the theater is underground, because it is surrounded on all sides by water. I didn’t go inside, I was impressed in absentia.

It’s not for nothing that China was called the healthiest nation: every morning (around 5 am) in city parks the Chinese do gymnastics, dance the waltz or their national dances. I didn’t take part in the exercises, but I took a couple of photos.

It was interesting to travel, especially since for the Chinese any “European face” is truly exotic; they often came up and asked to take a photo together.

From Beijing I went to Baidahe and Shanghai. But more on this in the second part of my note.