June, 2008
Articles from prior issues of beijingkids can be found by checking out the archive links below for the month and year you are interested in.
Shanghai
Shanghai
Where the Past Meets the Future
Taking a trip to Shanghai is less like traveling in China than it is being transported into another world. While the glitzy shopping malls and high-rises attest to the city being one of China’s fastest growing modern metropolises, a visit to the French Quarter or the Bund, with its stone facades and grand architecture, takes you back an entire century. Turn the corner and pass the old residence of some famous leader or former diplomat. Hip cafes and trendy restaurants serving international cuisine line the blocks everywhere you go, but be sure to try the xiaolong bao – steamed buns filled with pork and a tasty, piping-hot broth. Take a turn in People’s Square, shop till you drop along Huaihai Lu, visit the Shanghai Museum (which holds one of China’s finest collections of classical art), then stroll down Nanjing Road and end the day wandering the Bund.
The Travelers: Chinese/Japanese couple Shiqiang Liu and Akiko Yamashita and their daughter Yoko (7).
Sanya
Sanya
A South China Island Adventure
This famous beach resort destination is the summer haven your family has been seeking. Sanya is easy to navigate and has a wide choice of beach resorts. Of the two main beaches, Yalong Bay generally has fewer tourists and a more peaceful setting. If the relaxing beach life becomes too monotonous, families can take advantage of the snorkeling and hiking trips available. Day trips to and from Sanya can also help add a little spice to the experience. Most notable are Nanwan Monkey Island, the extensive Jianfengling Nature Reserve (which shows off the jungle that once covered Hainan) and the Nantian Hot Spring Resort – a veritable oasis of relaxing hot springs and gardens.
The Travelers: British couple Nick and Sally Mulvenney, and their son Max (3).
Where to Stay: An ocean-view room at the Marriott in Yalong Bay. The landscaped gardens and hammocks on the hotel beach provided never-ending fun for Max.
Qingdao
Qingdao
Soft Sand and Open Sea
You don’t have to leave the country to enjoy some fun in the sun. Qingdao, just a train ride away from Beijing, is one of China’s best options for a seaside holiday, and with its six beaches children won’t be disappointed. If you are a seafood lover, visiting the local fish market is a must! The winding cobblestone streets of the old town are the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll in search of interesting architecture among the red roofs, blue sea and white sand. Qingdao began as a small fishing village, and the local cuisine attests to these authentic roots. The city emanates a very modern and European feel due to its Germanic legacy and fresh seaside appeal.
Pingyao
Pingyao
Journey Back to the Ming Dynasty
Visiting Pingyao is a real step into China’s past: The ancient city walls and picture-perfect red lanterns recall an era that has been lost in many of China’s modernizing towns. Pingyao is best explored on foot, and the sights possess enough charm to keep antsy children entertained. Just after Chinese New Year is a good time to go, as Pingyao hosts a lively Lantern Festival. If you wish to leave the brick walls of the Ming dynasty, you can visit Buddhist temples and traditional family courtyard homes that lie on the outskirts of the city.
The Travelers: Australians Peter and Maxine Hewitt, and their kids James (10) and Bethany (7).
The Plan: Wanting to see more of China, the Hewitt family chose this ancient market town, taking the overnight train on Friday night and arriving early Saturday morning. On Sunday they drove to Taiyuan via other sightseeing spots before taking another overnight train home.
Nanjing
Nanjing
An Old Capital with a Modern Edge
Upon entering the city it is immediately obvious that Nanjing has twice served as the country’s capital. A wealthy and chic city, Nanjing is replete with lovely rivers, parks, boulevards and shopping malls, where families can combine a cosmopolitan holiday with a vacation rich in history, while still being surrounded by nature. The luxurious aspects of Nanjing ensure that a stay is pleasant and generally devoid of stress, even if traveling with small children. With a history of over 5,000 years, Nanjing’s attractions include prehistoric sites and original Ming city gates. The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, which is situated on the bordering Zijin Shan, or “Purple Mountain,” is accessible by cable-car. What better way to observe a beautifully forested mountain peak than with a birds-eye view from above?
Lijiang
Lijiang
Wander Through an Ancient Town
Lijiang’s Old Town, the best preserved ancient town in China, is overwhelmingly beautiful. Pedestrian-friendly, its narrow cobblestone roads, canals and arched bridges promote hours of slow meandering. With high numbers of tourists, there is no shortage of friendly cafes and hostels. For an “authentic” experience stay in a traditional Naxi guesthouse. Souvenir shopping – Naxi trinkets in particular - is also plentiful here. The area provides a wealth of natural beauty; the nearby Tiger Leaping Gorge is impressive, and if the family isn’t up for a long hike, there are inexpensive buses that leave from Lijiang. At peak times the old town can feel a little overwhelmed with tourists, but it’s not difficult to avoid the heavily visited areas, and the volume of visitors speaks of the appeal of Lijiang, an important stop on the China tour.
Kashgar
Kashgar
Life on the Silk Road
Kashgar – a true desert town – is located in the center of Uighur country and is one of the most remote cities in China. For the culturally adventurous, Kashgar presents an array of exciting activities. Once a prime stop on the Silk Road, it has retained fairly authentic bazaars and livestock markets. Nomads, farmers and traders of all types convene to sell their traditional wares as well as an array of tourist goods. Children will be fascinated by the chaos of the livestock market, while adults can take the opportunity to buy fairly inexpensive and well-made carpets at the Sunday Market. A trip to the old town reveals small adobe homes, winding streets and the scents of traditional Uighur cuisine. Though Kashgar is a vibrant experience on its own, it is also a convenient stop on the way to Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan or more remote destinations.
The Travelers: French/Dutch Alex and Noëlle Smulders and their children Ivar (14), Etoile (13) and Asia (12).
Jiuzhaigou
Jiuzhaigou
Valley of Enchantment
Blue lakes, waterfalls, green landscape – Jiuzhaigou (or “Nine Village Valley”) is a nature lover’s paradise. Located in Northern Sichuan, this area is home to a UN-approved nature reserve, as well as nine Baima Tibetan villages. The local Tibetans and Qiang people consider many reserves on this land holy, and mysterious legends surround the landscape. Children will love the variety of “wild animals” – the reserve houses monkeys, pandas and an array of other forest dwellers – set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and clear lakes. A long hiking trail allows visitors to view all the park’s major sites. Temples, lakes and waterfalls line the route and, as the reserve is massive, bus tours are available for the weary. Although the reserve can be happily explored for days, visiting the Tibetan villages in the area is a good option for those desiring something more culturally stimulating.
Inner Mongolia
Inner Mongolia
Roam the Rolling Deserts
The trek to Inner Mongolia may lead some travelers to question whether or not they are still in China. The flowing grasslands and desert expanses of this exotic land are far closer to Mongolia than Beijing, and the capital city Hohhot offers exposure to Mongolian traditions and cuisine. Spend a night in a traditional nomadic yurt and visit the mausoleum of Genghis Khan. While organized tours are available in and around Hohhot, families with older children may want to visit more remote towns and villages set against a backdrop of grassland and desert. Culture-seekers can soak up on traditional Mongolian singing and dancing, while adventure seekers can try horse and camel riding. Due to the harsh climate in this part of the country, visiting between June and September is recommended.
The Travelers: German couple Peter and Antje Küsters and their son Joel (5). Friends Tobias Trost, Roman Neubert and Anna-Julia Toll joined the family on their adventure.
Huangshan
Huangshan
Great Heights and Soothing Springs
This mountain has inspired an infinite number of artistic masterpieces, and for good reason: Huangshan’s majestic slopes offer breathtaking views that place you right into the middle of a Chinese landscape painting. Although pricy by Chinese standards, a trip to the “Yellow Mountain” is well worth the money spent. A cable car ensures an easy ascent for smaller children, but hiking up the mountain is the experience of a lifetime. Hike-weary legs can be soothed in hot springs located part way up the mountain. During the summer months, the mountain is covered with flowers, but views from Huangshan’s peaks are stunning all year round. Decent hotels can be found at various points on the mountain, so families can pick whether they would rather sleep at great heights, closer to the ground, or somewhere in the middle!
Heavenly Lake
Heavenly Lake
Uighur Culture and Lakeside Charm
If experiencing China’s natural beauty is your priority, then Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) is a must. Heavenly Lake – located within close proximity to Urumqi, Xinjiang’s capital city – is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Heavenly Mountain. Xinjiang is a remote province rich in Silk Road history. The customs and language (Uighur) of Xinjiang’s people are far removed from anything one sees or hears in Beijing, so this destination is ideal for exploring a different aspect of China’s many cultural traditions. Beautiful Buddhist temples and pagodas are scattered across the mountain so that both children and parents can relish fresh air (and delicious Uighur kebabs!) while trekking from one historical gem to another.
The Travelers: American Anne Wilbur and her daughters, Zoe and Lucy Morrison, traveled to Heavenly Lake in 2005 with Ian and Fiona Key and their kids, Jake and Tallulah. At the time, the children ranged in age from 6-12 years old.
Harbin
Harbin
A Cool Northern Escape
If one wants to visit a Chinese city that bears little resemblance to Beijing, Harbin is the place to go. Its proximity to Russia is exhibited in the city’s exquisite architecture, with Russian Orthodox churches neighboring Buddhist temples in a relaxing, riverfront city. Stalin Park is hardly reminiscent of Soviet Russia but does have lovely, tree-lined playgrounds for kids and cafes for the older set. The Siberian Tiger Park offers a rare look at over 500 endangered Manchurian tigers and is a great place to bring young ones. After a morning of animal watching, the nearby Sun Island Resort, complete with a water park, private boats and lush gardens, offers a pleasant retreat. During winter months, Harbin has spectacular ice lanterns, snow carvings and ice sports.
The Travelers: The English/Indonesian/Australian Turner family – Lewis and Ningsih and their daughters Cassie (14) and Vicky (12).
Hangzhou
Hangzhou
Green Teas and Misty Mountains
Hangzhou has, for centuries, been praised as one of the most beautiful cities in China, and it still lives up to expectations. Lined with pagodas and gardens covered in a dreamy mist, Hangzhou’s West Lake is a perfect getaway for families. Boat rides are a great way for families to enjoy a water-side holiday, and younger children will also be enticed by the large aquarium and botanical gardens.
The area around Hangzhou is known for its green tea production, and several tea markets and museums are sure to appeal to everyone’s taste buds. The mountain resort of Moganshan, where old colonial mountaintop villas serve as guesthouses, is only a short bus ride from Hangzhou and offers a cool oasis away from the summer heat.
The Travelers: Australians Peter and Mandy Jensen, and their kids Ruby (9), Max (7) and Lucy (3).
Guilin
Guilin
River Rafting and Cave Hopping
Although heavy tourism detracts from some of Guilin’s authentic charm, it still deserves its reputation as a must-see place in China. Guilin lies on the banks of the Li River, and its natural splendor is a haven from Beijing’s concrete and pollution. Cruises along the river – lined by rice paddies and mountain peaks – offer spectacular views and a relaxing experience.
Families can explore the Reed Flute Cave, located just outside of the city center, where fantastical tales accompany unusual rock formations. Guilin’s surrounding villages also present unique cuisine and a pleasant environment for kids to get to know China.
The Travelers: Australians Graeme and Linda Tinney, and their kids Sid (12), Harry (10) and Ella (7).
Datong
Datong
Door to a Different World
Although Datong is not renowned as one of China’s most aesthetically pleasing locations, it has several stunning historical treasures located just outside the city. Datong’s claim to fame, the Yungang Caves, is impressive enough to spark the interest of children of all ages. Made up of 21 grottos with Buddhist carvings dating from the fifth century, the caves hold enormous, awe-striking statues. The Datong Hanging Monastery, an ancient wooden Buddhist monastery more than 1,400 years old, clings to the side of a cliff above a river and is equally as enthralling, though definitely not for the faint of heart!
The Travelers: Americans Aaron and Donna Taylor, and their kids Toby (8) and Garrett (6).
The Route: With Datong only a four-hour drive away from Beijing, the Taylors took their own mini-van and experienced driver, which Donna says is essential due to the regular truck spills and mule-drawn carts plugging up the highway.
Dalian
Dalian
Sandy Beaches and Seaside Cliffs
Families can relax in this flourishing seaside city known as the Hong Kong of Northern China. The city was designed by Russian architects fascinated with French culture – as can be seen in the large squares, gardens, fountains and parks throughout the city. After being subjected to Japanese and Russian rule, Dalian was handed back to the Chinese government in 1945. The city’s historical legacy is a good match for its natural beauty, and a drive along the coastal road, Binhai Lu, reveals stunning views of the cliffs and sea. Families can visit sandy beaches (Tiger Beach Park and Golden Stone Beach are convenient when traveling with children), and if you get bored with the ocean, a museum of Mao badges and hunting grounds at Golden Stone Beach offer a bit more than just the typical seaside holiday.
Dali
Dali
Mountain Peaks and Cobblestone Roads
This town in central Yunnan combines natural beauty with exotic local flavor. Dali has a striking physical location and an interesting history as a former capital. The Bai people have inhabited the Dali area for thousands of years, and their cultural influence is immediately evident in the food and romantic legends that surround the area. If the family is feeling adventurous, renting bikes is a great way to explore the area and avoid tour buses.Since the town is small, it’s no hard task to navigate its thin, cobblestone roads and ancient walls, and its small-town charm has attracted a fair-sized foreign community. Decent Western cuisine such as pizza, coffee and pancakes can easily be found. History aficionados will find the Dali museum and its three main pagodas particularly interesting, while hikers can explore Mt. Cangshan – an exquisite mountain famous for strange cloud formations. The nearby Erhai Lake is one of the seven largest lakes in China and is surrounded by tiny villages.
Chongqing
Chongqing
Gateway to the Three Gorges
As the starting point for the Yangzi River Cruise, Chongqing is where people embark on their trip downstream all the way to the Three Gorges Dam. Cruising by boat – a most relaxing way to travel – will take you and your family through some of China’s most breathtaking sights, including the Three Gorges.
The Chongqing Planning Exhibition Gallery offers a look at the Three Gorges Dam project and the interactive displays are just as interesting for children as they are for adults. A walk around Ciqikou Ancient Town offers a great historical tour of life during the Ming dynasty, and WWII buffs will enjoy Chongqing’s Red Cliff Village, which was used as a stronghold against the Japanese during the Second World War. Sichuan cuisine offered by street vendors and restaurants is tempting, but families would be wise to take it easy on the spices and be particular about restaurant choices.
Chengdu
Chengdu
A Giant Panda Paradise
No stay in China is complete without a glimpse of the country’s most treasured animal, the giant panda, and children can meet one face-to-face in Chengdu. These magnificent creatures are becoming increasingly rare, so an opportunity to hold a baby panda would be an unforgettable experience that they could carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Though pandas may be Chengdu’s biggest draw, the city itself also has a lot to offer. This hub of Sichuan is much easier on the eyes than most of China’s more populous cities and is filled with charming side streets and tasty restaurants. Temple parks offer green spaces, bamboo forests and Taoist pavilions.
*Due to the May 2008 earthquake in Sichuan, travelers are advised to consult the National Tourism Administration for updated conditions before making any travel plans to the province.
Broadening Horizons
The old saying goes: All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Perhaps that's where the idea of summer vacation came about.
It's good to stop every once in a while to let yourself unwind. And after nine months of sitting in a stiff chair and listening to an adult talk at the front of a classroom while the sun teasingly shines outside, kids deserve a long break - preferably out of doors.
But that doesn't mean that the act of learning stops. In fact, gaining knowledge about the world - and life in general - frequently happens outside the classroom. It's one thing to read about or see a photograph of the Sistine Chapel in a book; to be in the presence of a centuries-old edifice and have your breath taken away by the awe-inspiring work of a celebrated master painter - that is another thing entirely.
Chengde
Chengde
City of Towers and Temples
Be like an emperor and escape Beijing’s summer temperatures with a trip to Chengde. Only a short, four-hour drive from Beijing, Chengde is an attractive destination for those who don’t want to waste precious hours en route. Families can spend a pleasant day in Bishu Shanzhuang, the extensive Imperial summer resort. Originally a hunting lodge for Emperor Kangxi, Bishu Shanzhuang is filled with shaded gardens and regal artifacts, and the complex is home to several pavilions, palaces and lakes. Also try visiting one of the Eight Outer Temples, where the Qing emperors received visitors from all over their empire. If walking is a hassle with younger children, electric carts or small boats are also available.
Flip Flop
Make your own memory game
Put the analytical left side of your brain to the test while exploring right-brained creativity at the same time!
Difficulty Level:
Easy
Time:
20-30 minutes
Fuchengmen
Wander through the peaceful streets while soaking up Chinese history
Built in 1267 by order of Emperor Kublai Khan, Fuchengmen was one of the most important gates to the city of Beijing. Until the Qing dynasty (1648-1911), it was the main passageway for coal transportation, hence its other name, “Coal Gate.” Although the gate and its attached city wall were knocked down in the 1970s to facilitate construction, the area still bears the name Fuchengmen. Visitors won’t find any skyscrapers here – at least not yet. Instead, an assortment of historical and cultural relics awaits in this relaxing area, with tasty local snack stands to distract you on a sunny day.
Wantong Market
Vitamin C
Everyone knows that vitamin C is essential for a tip-top immune system, but it has many other essential jobs within the body – protecting cells from pollution and sun damage, helping to heal grazed knees and other injuries, and encouraging iron absorption for healthy blood.
Parents often reach for the supplements when they fear that their child is falling short of requirements, but getting a sufficient amount of vitamin C from food couldn’t be easier – a kiwi fruit a day will more than cover it! Furthermore, side effects like diarrhea and kidney stones can occur in those taking supplements in excessive amounts.
Foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, green vegetables and even potatoes. Vitamin C is water-soluble and breaks down easily when cooked or exposed to the air so for maximum benefit choose freshly prepared raw or lightly cooked fruits and vegetables. If cooking, stir-fry, steam, roast or bake instead of boiling.
