Authentic Travel Diaries & Private Tours,Discover the Real China with Local Experts and Genuine Stories

Discover Jingyuetan (Net Moon Lake), a massive man-made forest park that serves as the ecological heart of Changchun. From autumn foliage cycling to the international Vasaloppet ski race and massive winter ice sculptures, this article explores the park's dual identity as a serene nature retreat and a vibrant winter sports hub

Join a deep-dive exploration of Wusong Island, the premier destination for witnessing the "Rime Ice" phenomenon in Jilin Province. This article details the surreal experience of frozen willow trees, the photography hotspots at sunrise, and the resilient local culture that thrives in extreme cold. A must-read for winter travel enthusiasts.

Explore the mystical Changbai Mountain Scenic Area with a seasoned traveler. This guide dives deep into the volatile beauty of Tianchi (Heaven Lake), the thrilling winding roads, the unique sulfur-boiled eggs, and the distinct Korean-Chinese culture of the region. Discover why this active volcano is considered a sacred, living entity in Northeast China.

a 900-year-old Song Dynasty town in Guangxi that preserves traditional Chinese life. Visiting early to avoid crowds, the author explores stone-paved streets, black-tiled white-wall houses, and ancient stone bridges. Highlights include visits to the Ming Dynasty Town God’s Temple, a woodcarving workshop where crafts are passed down through generations, a traditional Chinese medicine shop, and a riverside restaurant serving local specialties. The author also takes a river boat tour with a local guide, learning about the town’s commercial history as a Ming-Qing trade hub, and visits the Huangyao Ancient Town Museum. The piece captures the town’s timeless charm, blending ancient architecture, traditional crafts, and peaceful rural life, offering a comprehensive guide for travelers seeking to step back in time and experience China’s traditional past.

This article recounts the author’s unforgettable bamboo raft journey down the Guilin Li River, a scenic waterway famous for its karst landscapes. Guided by local boatman Uncle Liu, the author experiences misty morning sails, identifies iconic mountain formations like Nine Horses Fresco Hill and Yellow Cloth Shoal Reflection, and learns the legends behind them. Highlights include stops at a small island for a bamboo-cooked fish lunch, encounters with local villagers and children, and sailing through the serene Lijiang Gorge. The author also explores Xingping Ancient Town, visiting its museum and tea houses, and witnesses a breathtaking sunset over the river. The piece captures the Li River’s status as a living Chinese landscape painting, blending natural beauty with local culture and peaceful rural life, offering a comprehensive guide for travelers seeking an immersive cruise experience

This article shares the author’s immersive experience in the Longji Rice Terraces, a 2,300-year-old agricultural masterpiece carved by Zhuang and Yao peoples. Visiting in late September during the golden harvest season, the author details stays in a local Zhuang guesthouse, tasting authentic bamboo rice and Longji tea, and waking at dawn to witness sunrises over mist-shrouded terraces. Highlights include hiking through narrow terrace paths, learning rice harvesting from local farmers, visiting Zhuang embroidery workshops in Ping’an and Jinlong Villages, and exploring the Longji Rice Terraces Museum. The author captures the harmony between humans and nature, the wisdom of traditional farming practices, and the rich cultural heritage of the local ethnic groups. The piece offers a comprehensive guide for travelers seeking to experience the beauty and culture of one of China’s most iconic landscapes.

a hidden natural wonder in Guangxi’s mountains. From the scenic drive to the canyon entrance, the author details encounters with a 168-meter waterfall, steep cliffside paths lined with moss and ferns, and a guided tour of the magical Underground River Cave—home to stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and colored light displays. Highlights include crossing a swaying suspension bridge for panoramic canyon views, tasting authentic local cuisine in a bottom-canyon Yao village, and exploring additional waterfalls and pools. The author shares insights from the local guide about rare wildlife and conservation efforts, as well as visits to the 300-year-old Tongling Temple. The piece captures the canyon’s surreal beauty, adventure opportunities, and cultural richness, making it an essential guide for nature and adventure lovers

a peaceful green oasis on the outskirts of Nanning. Seeking escape from the city’s hustle, the author details early-morning walks through banyan-lined paths, visits to the 600-year-old Shuiyue Nunnery with its serene lake and Buddhist murals, and interactions with local elders practicing tai chi and sharing tea. Highlights include panoramic views from the Qingxiu Mountain Pagoda, tasting authentic snail noodles at a mountain restaurant, and exploring the botanical garden with its diverse plant species and butterfly garden. The piece vividly portrays the mountain’s role as a cultural and natural sanctuary, blending ancient traditions with lush landscapes, and offers a perfect guide for travelers looking to unwind and connect with local culture in Nanning.

This article recounts the author’s immersive journey on Weizhou Island, China’s largest volcanic island. From the choppy ferry ride to the warm welcome at a local guesthouse, the author embraces the island’s slow-paced lifestyle. Highlights include early-morning sunrises at Shell Beach, scooter rides through coconut-lined roads, exploring volcanic craters at the Geopark, and cooling off at Shiluo Port’s pristine beaches. The author shares interactions with locals—fishermen, teenagers, and restaurant owners—along with authentic seafood experiences and visits to the Chengyin Temple. The piece captures the island’s unspoiled natural beauty, traditional stone architecture, and the simple joy of island life, making it a comprehensive guide for travelers seeking a peaceful and authentic island getaway.

This article shares the author’s authentic early-morning visit to Detian Transnational Waterfall, capturing the natural beauty of the three-tiered falls and its unique transnational charm alongside Vietnam’s Ban Gioc Waterfall. From interactions with local elders and bamboo raft tours guided by fishermen to insights on the best visiting seasons and cross-cultural festivals, the author vividly depicts the harmony between nature and humanity here. The piece highlights hidden overlooks, local specialties like candied osmanthus, and the peaceful coexistence of Chinese and Vietnamese cultures along the border, offering practical and emotional guidance for travelers seeking an immersive experience at Detian Transnational Waterfall.

This reflective travel essay explores the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in Guangzhou, focusing on the contrast between the city's chaotic energy and the site's tranquil atmosphere. The author marvels at the architectural ingenuity of the pillar-less auditorium and the symbolism of the sapphire blue roof. The narrative moves from the solemn history inside the hall to a heartwarming interaction with a local elder flying a kite in the square outside. It portrays the memorial not as a static museum, but as a vibrant community space where history and daily life intersect, offering a moment of peace in a bustling metropolis.

This travelogue captures the slow, sensory-rich pace of life in Chaozhou Ancient City. The author recounts an afternoon spent in a local teahouse, detailing the intricate ritual and complex flavors of Kung Fu tea. The narrative moves to the Guangji Bridge, describing the unique spectacle of the pontoon boats disconnecting to let ships pass. The day concludes with a vivid, mouth-watering description of an authentic Chaozhou beef hotpot dinner, emphasizing the strict "eight-second" cooking rule. The story portrays Chaozhou not as a list of tourist sites, but as a place of deep cultural immersion and culinary perfection.