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

Wuyishan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its dramatic Danxia landforms, crystal-clear Nine Bend Stream, and world-famous Wuyi rock tea culture. This first-hand account takes readers on a journey through Wuyishan’s natural and cultural highlights, including a serene bamboo raft ride down the Nine Bend Stream, hiking Heavenly Tour Peak for panoramic views of misty peaks and ancient inscriptions, and visiting the iconic Da Hong Pao tea bushes and local tea factories. The author also explores the Wuyishan National Nature Reserve, encountering diverse flora and fauna, and delves into the local cuisine that integrates tea as a key ingredient. Wuyishan offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to experience the beauty of nature and the depth of Chinese tea culture. From the stunning landscapes to the warm hospitality of the local people, Wuyishan leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.

Yongding Tulou, the iconic earthen dwellings of the Hakka people in Southern Fujian, are a fascinating blend of military defense architecture and traditional community living. This first-hand narrative takes readers on a journey through Yongding’s most famous tulou, including Chengqi Lou (the “King of Tulou”) and Zhenfu Lou, exploring their unique circular or square structures, thick earthen walls, and defensive designs. The author interacts with local Hakka residents, learning about their history of migration, community values, and daily life within the tulou. The article also delves into Hakka culture, from traditional feasts featuring stuffed tofu and braised pork to craft workshops on paper-cutting and earthen wall making. Yongding Tulou offers a rare glimpse into an ancient way of life, making it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in Chinese ethnic culture and architectural heritage. The combination of stunning architecture, rich history, and warm local hospitality creates an unforgettable experience

Fujian Tulou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents the unique architectural and cultural heritage of the Hakka and Minnan peoples in Southern Fujian. This first-hand exploration covers tulou clusters across Yongding and Nanjing counties, from the massive communal circular tulou like Chengqi Lou (the “King of Tulou”) to the smaller family-oriented Minnan tulou in Tianluokeng. The author delves into the tulou’s architectural ingenuity, built with earth, sand, lime, and glutinous rice for strength and defense. Beyond architecture, the article explores vibrant cultural traditions, including Hakka weddings and Minnan folk festivals, and savors local cuisines like Hakka stuffed tofu and Minnan oyster omelet. The core of the Fujian Tulou experience lies in the strong sense of community among residents, who share common spaces and support each other. For travelers seeking to immerse in ancient Chinese ethnic culture and unique architecture, Fujian Tulou offers an unforgettable journey into history and community

Quanzhou Confucian Temple, a well-preserved ancient sanctuary in the heart of Quanzhou (an ancient maritime capital), stands as a profound symbol of Confucian culture in Southern China. This first-hand account takes readers on a journey through the temple’s serene courtyards and grand halls, including the Lingxing Gate adorned with dragon carvings, the Dacheng Gate guarded by stone lions, and the magnificent Dacheng Hall— a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture with yellow glazed tiles and dragon-carved stone pillars. The author explores the temple’s historical significance, from its Tang Dynasty origins to its current role as a living center for Confucian learning, where students study and visitors reflect on Confucian teachings of benevolence and righteousness. Beyond the temple, the article touches on nearby local cuisine and cultural experiences, such as tieguanyin tea and mahjong. Quanzhou Confucian Temple offers a peaceful escape from the city

Luoyang Bridge, an ancient stone bridge built during the Northern Song Dynasty near Quanzhou, is a extraordinary feat of ancient Chinese engineering. This first-hand exploration takes readers across the 834-meter-long stone bridge, admiring its intricate stone carvings of lions and dragons, and marveling at its innovative design—boat-shaped piers to resist waves and oyster-shell foundations to consolidate the structure. The author delves into the bridge’s construction techniques, including how ancient engineers used tides and boats to transport massive stone blocks (some over 100 tons) without modern machinery. The article also covers nearby attractions like the Zhenwu Pavilion and Luoyang Bridge Museum, which showcase artifacts and models of the bridge’s history. Set against the backdrop of the sea, Luoyang Bridge offers a serene and awe-inspiring experience, blending engineering brilliance with historical and cultural significance. For travelers interested in ancient Chinese technology and maritime history, Luoyang Bridge is a must-visit landmark that highlights the ingenuity of ancient Chinese civilization.

This article shares the author's experiences in Wuyishan. It describes the beautiful bamboo forests, the scenic bamboo raft ride on the Nine - Bend River, the rich tea culture including tea - making and tasting, and the hiking adventures to hidden temples and ancient rock carvings. It presents Wuyishan as a place that combines natural beauty with cultural heritage.

This article takes readers on a virtual journey to Gulangyu Island in Xiamen. It describes the island's peaceful atmosphere, well - preserved colonial - style buildings, the stunning view from Sunlight Rock, the fascinating Piano Museum, and the delicious local seafood. It offers an in - depth look at what makes Gulangyu Island a must - visit destination.

Explore the cultural significance and architectural beauty of Yueyang Tower, a literary icon standing beside the vast Dongting Lake. This article reflects on the famous poems and essays associated with the tower, particularly Fan Zhongyan’s legendary work, and captures the experience of climbing the wooden structure to gaze out at the expansive waters. It is a journey into the heart of Chinese literary tradition, offering insight into the values and aesthetics that have shaped the country’s history

A spiritual and sensory journey up Mount Heng (Nanyue), one of China’s Five Great Mountains. This article details the visit to the harmonious Taoist and Buddhist temples at the base, the ascent through ancient, moss-draped forests, and the breathtaking view of the Sea of Clouds from Zhurong Peak. It captures the atmosphere of perpetual mist, the smell of incense, and the profound sense of peace found in this sacred landscape.

A poignant visit to Mao Zedong’s Former Residence in Shaoshan, exploring the humble mud-brick farmhouse where the founder of the People’s Republic of China was raised. This article describes the journey through rural Hunan, the simple domestic details of the kitchen and bedrooms, and the emotional reactions of the pilgrims who visit. It offers a humanizing look at a historical giant, emphasizing the connection between the rural landscape and the making of modern Chinese history.

A vivid account of hiking Yuelu Mountain, detailing the journey from the foot of the mountain through the scenic Aiwan Pavilion and the serene Yunlu Palace. The narrative captures the lush greenery, the cultural significance of the autumn leaves, and the rewarding panoramic view of Changsha and the Xiangjiang River from the summit. It is a story that blends physical activity with cultural discovery, offering a fresh perspective on the dynamic relationship between nature and urban life in Hunan

Escape the noise of modern China and discover the tranquility of Yuelu Academy, one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the world. This article recounts a visit on a rainy afternoon, exploring the thousand-year-old architecture, the courtyards where philosopher Zhu Xi once taught, and the palpable sense of history that permeates the air. It is a meditative reflection on the importance of education, the continuity of Chinese scholarship, and the peace found in preserving the past.