Variety is the Spice of Life: Recent Episodes
Bauhinia
"Variety's the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavour."
A palette of general thoughts & travel stories from all around the world
Photos of the hustling bazaar, breathtaking natural scenery, as well as colourful souvenirs at my home together brought me back to my journey to Xinjiang almost five years ago. It was when we followed the path of the Ancient Silk Road, discovering the corners that might sound unfamiliar for many of us. China, nowadays, attempts to revive the past glory of the Silk Road in the region by advocating the “One Belt One Road” strategy. However, through the camera lens and first-hand interaction with the locals, is Xinjiang really blessed with the rosy picture of all ethnicities being respected and living without fear in all aspects?
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2022/03/13/in-retrospect-of-my-week-in-xinjiang-in-2017/
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An ethnic Kazakh man, in his limited Chinese, told us that Sayram means “blessing” in his mother tongue, and wished us peace wherever we go. Being in one of the most impressive bodies of water, I felt particularly blessed to be around the lake. Framed by the majestic Tianshan Mountain in the backdrop, the turquoise water of Sayram lake seemed to be meeting the azure sky in the distance. Immersing in the locals’ hospitality and this picturesque scene in Illi was nothing more we could wish for.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2021/12/01/sayram-lake-%e8%b3%bd%e9%87%8c%e6%9c%a8%e6%b9%96-turquoise-water-thriving-meadows-an-undulating-mountain-view/
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To surmount the dry heat and miles of sand, Turpan, perhaps, was the most challenging part of the Journey to the West for traders and travellers in the Silk Road. Even we only stayed there for one entire day, we could already feel our sweat drizzling and our longing craving for a set of juicy grapes. Outside this city lies an impregnable mountain range blanketed by perpetual snow, with Tianshan that separates the northern and southern part of Xinjiang. Monkey King and monk Xuanzang should be proud of themselves for how much they endured and what they had achieved.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2021/09/10/turpan-%e5%90%90%e9%ad%af%e7%95%aa-chinas-flaming-furnace/
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Both Dunhuang and the Silk Road bear witness to the transmission of diverse cultural content that took place here. Lying in an oasis at the edge of the Taklamakan Desert, this city changed hands myriads of times over its long history and remained a vibrant hub of exchange until the 11th century. Those were the days when the sight of the city brought smiles of relief to the weary caravans of travellers, and it nowadays brings immense joy to us to be in this invaluable depositary of historic documents along the Silk Roads.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2021/07/14/dunhuang-%e6%95%a6%e7%85%8c-a-silk-road-oasis/
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Located in the middle of the Korean Peninsula, Seoul was a strategic location in bygone centuries where the three kingdoms of Baekje, Goguryeo, and Silla (BCE 57 – CE 688) all targeted to conquer it. Whoever captured Seoul reflected its extraordinary military power. To gain a firm foothold there, the Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910) even declared Seoul its capital, a role that Seoul is still playing.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2021/06/24/a-glimpse-into-seouls-past-and-present/
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Don’t be surprised that there lies the highest mountain in Chiang Mai that is blessed with lush green landscapes, breezy weather and a high-rise peak that reaches 2500 metres above sea level. It becomes a perfect paradise for the locals and tourists from all walks of life to spend their holiday to escape from the all-year heat and embrace nature. If you have a chance to visit Chiang Mai, do immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Doi Inthanon, and appreciate this natural treasure that our Mother Earth created for every one of us.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2021/05/05/doi-inthanon-a-mountainous-paradise-in-thailand/
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Let's take a look and explore inside the villages of long-neck Kayans in Thailand. Originally from Burma, they were forced to flee to Thailand as refugees some time ago. Some of them are still living in the bamboo huts in northern Thailand where they welcome flocks of tourists. Yet, do their lives get improved?
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2021/02/08/the-long-neck-kayans-restricted-unprotected-and-their-unsolved-plight/
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The Golden Triangle, a Mekong river confluence between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, was used to be a hotbed for opium production by drug traffickers. Yet nowadays, with China's soaring investment, the nearby Daosao island in Laos is being transformed into a Special Economic Zone. But will Laos' government continue to embrace China's politically in exchange for its massive economic benefits?
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2020/02/08/golden-triangle-from-a-drug-zone-to-a-chinas-enclave/
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Though it seemed so nerve-wracking, this first solo backpacking turned out to be one of the most liberating, exhilarating experiences. The chief delight of travelling alone is the simple act of just doing it: going beyond my cocoon and deciding to go somewhere, even if it means doing it by yourself.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2020/01/14/out-of-my-comfort-zone-reflections-on-my-first-solo-backpacking-abroad/
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I found myself in a period of intense soul-searching and stress occurring, typically because I feel that I am not achieving my full potential or am lagging behind, or being tied down by insecurities and loneliness. Sometimes I wonder whether I could really taste the fruit of success after months and years of toil, blood and sweat? Could I sow what I reaped? What am I doing here and am I creating any impact on this world?
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2019/11/24/a-personal-record-me-and-my-quarter-life-crisis/
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From a peaceful meander along the beautiful coast to relishing the spectacular views of these two seaside towns, there is plenty to do here for a leisurely weekend. Escaping from the hustle and bustle of the city life, North Wales has it all for people of all ages: its gorgeous scenery, the clear blue sea and a relaxing atmosphere.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2019/10/05/conwy-and-llandudno-a-tranquil-stroll-in-north-wales/
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It is my first brand new experience to hike beyond Hong Kong. However, it rewards me with the natural gift the mountain has been hiding - those sparkling lake waters, spectacular nature views, and the sharp ridgelines.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2019/09/19/snowdon-conquering-the-highest-mountain-in-wales/
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Ever since from Roman eras as a place for rest to the British aristocrats as a city for social activities and arts in the 19th century, Bath has been developed and transformed into how it looks today. Tourists from all walks of life, as well as the British local people, all swarm into this gorgeous city of Bath to relish its unique architecture and artistic culture each year, for travel or as a city retreat.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2019/09/10/wandering-through-a-historic-bath/
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Imagine myself following a protagonist’ gripping adventure that might not have happened in this real world, such as waving the magic wand with the wizard, dancing with a Prince Charming and living happily ever after. Whether I am bathing in happiness or when loneliness looms, love, loss and many others can be accomplished within a span of a couple of hours. Being a voracious reader, a smile creeps across my face when I realise how much Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales have enriched my childhood years. Even up to now, his magical stories never fail to delight, enchant and amaze us, and Copenhagen becomes a city where his writing inspiration flourished, and where he called it home.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2019/07/18/in-search-of-hans-christian-andersen-in-copenhagen/
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Centuries after the rule of different Empires, Toledo still stands majestically on a craggy outcrop of rock, overlooking the whole surrounding area. This city prides itself on its rich history and invaluable cultural heritage that long endure: Jewish synagogues, fine Moorish mosques and Spain’s greatest Gothic cathedrals. Just a full day of travel, we felt like we have been transported to medieval Spain. Once an ancient capital of Castille, once being a melting pot of religious coexistence, no wonder here goes a Spanish saying of this fairy-like city: “Until you have seen Toledo, you have not seen Spain”.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2018/04/13/toledo-a-melting-pot-of-three-cultures/
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This city represents the past through the city’s medieval heritage; the present day that embraces people of different faiths and races; and the future that spreads the message of the fatality of war and friendship towards the next generations. The ruined Cathedral and the locals’ welcoming attitude illustrate how Coventry emerged from those gloomy days and hold everyone with open arms, and how it continues to remind nations to settle any international issue through peaceful dialogues, rather than by fire and fury.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2018/03/27/coventry-a-city-of-peace-and-reconciliation/
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Jiayuguan Great Wall, originally constructed as the last major stronghold of Ming Empire, once faced boiling Gobi desert and vast terrains towards Central Asia. It's strategically located at the narrowest point of the Hexi Corridor on the Silk Road and now becomes the greatest wonder of the world.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2017/09/18/jiayuguan-pass-%e5%98%89%e5%b3%aa%e9%97%9c-first-and-the-greatest-pass-under-heaven/
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What makes Danxia landform to stand out is the varying shades of red-orange-pink sandstones. With the passing of time, the erosion formed towering peaks, cave holes, and stone halls. Let's discover its intoxicating beauty in this landlocked province in China, and feel such tranquility in this natural scenery.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2017/08/26/zhangye-danxia-%e5%bc%b5%e6%8e%96%e4%b8%b9%e9%9c%9e-chinas-rainbow-mountains/
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Lanzhou is famous as a starting point to explore the renowned Silk Road. Not only does it impress us with the city’s historical part, but also its gorgeous landscape and its evolving development. As thousands of years elapsed, their cultural heritages still endured, especially well-known by its Yellow River, a sculpture, a bridge, and a bowl of noodles.
Once a pivotal city on the Ancient Silk Road, Lanzhou started to revive its prominence as a future gateway to the West, and is being primed to be a major hub of the Silk Road Economic Belt.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2017/07/21/lanzhou-%e8%98%ad%e5%b7%9e-a-golden-city-in-the-centre/
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The Silk Road, linking majority of populations on this globe, transported more than merely huge wealth and multifarious commodities. It also facilitates intellectual knowledge, novel ideas, and cultural exchanges between different ethnic groups. Follow me to discover this mysterious West.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2017/07/03/silk-road-%e7%b5%b2%e7%b6%a2%e4%b9%8b%e8%b7%af-journey-to-the-mysterious-west-2/
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This Han Market never fails to show its hustle and bustle, and also its vividness that brings life and thrives in this city. There are, often, full of cordial greetings between sellers and customers, and relaxing chats between close confidants and new acquaintances about the bounty of newly-arrived local products. Be sure to haggle and greet the Vietnamese round. You will soon be fascinated by the typical shopping routine of Da Nang people, and also, their warm hospitality.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2017/06/08/han-market-a-kaleidoscope-of-souvenirs-and-stalls/
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He, was a sturdy leader whose power once held the country together under the banner of brotherhood and unity. He, became one of the most prominent political figures that wielded his country’s influence beyond its size. He, was seen by some as a strongman who oversaw one of the most prosperous periods this region has ever had. Above all else, He was hailed as the creator of modern Yugoslavia, when hundreds of foreign delegates from both Communist and non-Communist states were bidding his last farewell in the House of Flowers, just inside the National Yugoslav Museum in Belgrade. He was Josip Broz Tito.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2017/03/13/the-house-of-flowers-a-remembrance-of-tito/
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The Perfume River gently flows from the nearby Ngu Binh mountain, across the heart of Hue city and past its imperial palace. With its total territory smaller than Hong Kong’s, Hue seems to possess less allure than other cities in Vietnam at first glimpse. However, nowhere else in the country, alongside Hue, is much better to illustrate the royal livings during the dynastic rule that ended decades ago. While the contemporary capital of Vietnam is Hanoi, and myriads of us are familiarised with Ho Chi Minh City, the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty, who were the last imperial rulers, regarded Hue as their home from 1802 to 1945.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2017/01/30/hue-imperial-palace-the-rise-and-fall-of-nguyen-dynasty/
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Neither have I expected how picturesque the scenery is, nor how the burning red leaves grabbed hold of my heart. Our eyes drift from the concrete pathways to the beauty above, having a last glance at the jagged pieces of burning red. Soon, the golden sun orb drowns to the horizon, dyeing the sky in pale pink and yellow before the advent of twilight. Yet the speechless beauty of those red maple leaves will long be stamped in our hearts. ♦
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/12/21/tai-tong-%e5%a4%a7%e6%a3%a0-the-shades-of-natural-red/
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Dečani Monastery in Kosovo is the largest medieval church in the Balkans that survives from a sequence of ethnical and political tensions.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/12/04/decani-monastery-a-serbian-medieval-jewel-that-survives/
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I have never thought of completing an entire 50km walkathon with such tenacity, nor have my teammate, who is her first time ever in Hong Kong. At first, our application to this trailwalker was merely for our intimate embrace to the natural wonder of the city, after being exhausted by mounts of journals and paperwork, as well as a kaleidoscope of social activities that we could hardly breathe. Only by joining this event could we truly appreciate the tranquillity of the country parks and breathtaking scenery from the hilltops.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/11/21/50km-trailwalker-of-natural-wonders-enduring-toil/
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I made every endeavour to extend my hand further and keep body balancing, and continued battling against the swirling currents while being pushed backwards at the same time. Could you imagine I was once a little girl, being scared of gilding with my face down into the pool during most of my childhood, was now at the choppy centre of the Victoria Harbour, one of the world’s busiest ports against the backdrop of towering skyscrapers?
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/10/18/across-victoria-harbour-a-swimming-milestone/
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Explore this ancient trail that links from China's Yunnan province to Tibet and its nearby gorgeous scenery in Yunnan's side.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/09/15/tea-horse-road-%e8%8c%b6%e9%a6%ac%e5%8f%a4%e9%81%93-a-glimpse-of-the-ancient-odyssey/
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This cosmopolitan city of 7 million, located at the southern tip of China, is widely famed by its concrete jungle of modern skyscrapers and the dazzling shore of the Victoria Harbour. Yet alongside such landmark allure, in fact, Hong Kong is also long graced by the chains of emerald hills, especially the Lantau Peak, which is the second-highest mountain in the territory.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/08/19/lantau-peak-%e9%b3%b3%e5%87%b0%e5%b1%b1-a-hiking-adventure-at-the-crack-of-dawn/
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Namtso lake, with its altitude that almost equated to the Everest base camp, is one of the most holiest lakes in Tibet. We were all in awe with this heavenly lake filled with shimmering blue under the bright sun.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/07/31/namtso-lake-%e7%b4%8d%e6%9c%a8%e9%8c%af-a-lake-nearest-to-heaven/
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No journey in Lhasa would be completed without visiting Jokhang, the inseparable place of Tibetan Buddhism and where you will see pilgrims keeping their palms together and humming heartfelt prayers.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/07/13/jokhang-%e5%a4%a7%e6%98%ad%e5%af%ba-mecca-of-tibetan-buddhism/
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For centuries, the faraway sight of the Potala Palace, for many long-awaited pilgrims and tourists, symbolised to a warm welcome after their long journey. When our eyes finally settled on this palace, we all knew our endeavour and days of impatient waiting are worthwhile.
The pure sight of those halls and living quarters – and the jewel-bedecked mausoleums of the Dalai Lamas – was enough for us to return to Tibet again in the future.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/07/01/potala-palace-%e5%b8%83%e9%81%94%e6%8b%89%e5%ae%ae-a-paradise-of-spiritual-pureness/
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Sichuan food is generally renowned for being spicy, oily and consisting of numerous hot hua jiao, this traditional hotpot is not an exception. If you would like to challenge your taste buds, or have a brave taste of the heavy blench of seasonings in the evening, Sichuan hotpot, with fiery spices found in abundance in the province, will be a good option for you.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/06/20/sichuan-hotpot-%e5%9b%9b%e5%b7%9d%e7%81%ab%e9%8d%8b-a-brave-taste-of-spicy/
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Gloomy clouds blanketed the city of Mitrovica in darkness. January wind howled, it pierced the skin of each passer-by and enveloped us with numb coldness in a sprawl of dusty roads. Few street lights flickered and their shadows laid heavy in the potholes of the Ibar River. We could hardly hear a pin drop except for the gentle sound of flowing waters and our regular footsteps. In between dilapidated socialist-style buildings and shabby-brown blocks, there lies a steel truss bridge above the river. Yet it is more than just a bridge.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/05/31/mitrovica-a-city-divided/
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Kosovo does not spring up on the usual lists of the world’s desirable destinations, nor is it a conventional place that people would first think of. What was it to be as a daring pioneer to explore this unknown place, the youngest country in Europe when the others deem it dangerous?
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/05/11/first-impression-in-kosovo/
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The more I engaged in some fruitful conversations with the locals, the more I discovered the fascinating side of Serbia, and the more I would like to share my observation about this unique country, ranging from food, language, religion to socio-economic development.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/03/25/observations-on-a-week-in-serbia/
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After some sightseeing in Belgrade for a few days, the stay still didn’t satiate our yearn for travelling further, but grows within each passing day. In hope of making the most of our journey in Serbia, we decided to head to the north, to Novi Sad, which is the capital of the Autonomous Region of Vojvodina. After the bus ride for an hour and a half, the peak of the medieval fortress and the snowy outskirts of this second largest Serbian city passed in the glimpse of our eager eyes.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/02/28/beyond-belgrade-a-day-in-novi-sad/
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There is a legend in our Chinese tradition for centuries: If someone gets a bundle of bright red papers caught in wishing tree's branches, he/she will be granted a wish. Here on a Wishing Tree in Lam Tsuen, every branch is hung with auspiciously red cards. Each message on the card connotes someone's genuine wishes, wishes that seek everlasting happiness, prosperity and health. Owing to its magic, far more than merely decorations, the Banyan tree in Lam Tsuen grabs our limelight with no effort.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/02/14/lam-tsuen-%e6%9e%97%e6%9d%91-sea-of-auspicious-red-and-a-bundle-of-wishes/
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Belgrade, literally translates as the “White City”, matches with its freezing weather during the day we came – around -2ºC with snowflakes. Yet the frosty atmosphere didn’t chill our passion to be immersed in the New Year exhilaration. Such gritty exuberance and the twinkles of evening lights make the city appear to be one of the impressive places in the Balkans. While it anticipates a rosier future, the statues and varied styles of architecture speak of the past and the steady transformation of this “White City”: the Austro-Hungarian relics blench with the modern cafes and brand shops, and the bygone-era culture coexists with the city nightlife.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2016/02/01/evening-glitters-and-new-year-vigour-in-the-white-city/
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In formal gatherings with senior officials in China, it is always the highlight when foreign diplomats or privileged guests are greeted by shaking hands and a Chinese gift as a token of appreciation. Though wrapped in lavish at first sight, the gift behind, actually the porcelain wares, more or less contains the toil of labour, the art of cravings and sleepless wait of time. Yet with all these consecutive demands, creators’ endeavour comes to no avail when such Chinese treasure has long been praised as thin as paper, as white as jade, as bright as a mirror, and as sound as a bell throughout the centuries. And there is one typical place, a place where the inspiration of those creators flourished and prospective artists nurtured. The home of porcelain wares, beyond doubt, goes to Jingdezhen.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2015/09/01/jingdezhen-%e6%99%af%e5%be%b7%e9%8e%ae-home-of-porcelain-wares/
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With a relaxing backdrop of the surge of pedestrians, as well as China’s traditional architecture in the heart of Chengdu, Jinli Ancient Street can be regarded as an ideal paradise to loosen up and chill out after a day of work. There, you will soon fall in love with this colourfully magnificent lane, a lane where you might have seen from the postcard before, but now in front of your own eyes, gazed with surprise and wowed with amazement.
This episode is also available as a blog post: https://bauhiniahk2014.wordpress.com/2015/06/17/jinli-ancient-street-%e9%8c%a6%e9%87%8c%e5%8f%a4%e8%a1%97-an-evening-stroll/
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