Transportation in Zhangjiajie is very convenient. The highways extend in all directions, and it is worthwhile to mention that a superhighway connects Changsha and Zhangjiajie. New roads connect the city center to a number of scenic areas, making travel by car very convenient. Train routes extend to Guangzhou, Beijing, Zhanjiang, Changsha and Wuxi. The newly expanded Zhangjiajie Lotus Airport has accommodated 20 different airlines with routes to such destinations as Beijing, Guangzhou, Zhanjiang, Changsha, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Macau, and Thailand.

The history of Zhangjiajie can be traced back to the Neolithic Age. There are three main ethnic minority groups Tujia, Bai, Miao and other 29 minority groups living harmoniously with the Han Nationality. Many different folk cultures converge here and the visitor can experience the various folk-customs, clothing, decorations, dance and music. In 2006, Folk Songs of Sangzhi County, Hands-waving Dance of Tujia Ethnic Group, Maogusi Dance, and The Crafts of Tujia Brocade were all listed in the Protection Catalog of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage. The people of Zhangjiajie are all very hospitable and visitors immediately feel at home. And local snacks may become travelers’ favorite.

One of the most interesting things to do in Zhangjiajie is the experience of drifting on the Maoyan River. The Maoyan River is the upper reach of the Li River in Yongding District of Zhangjiajie City. The length for drifting is 25 kilometers (about 16 miles) and the zigzags in the river offer an exhilarating ride. There are four wonders on the Maoyan River: Bangtou Spring, Jianxie (intermittent) Spring, Yan (salt) Spring and Pen Wu (spout mist) Cave. These scenic spots cover the river with a mysterious color. The most renowned scenic spot is the Shui Dongzi (water hollow) Waterfall. On the bank opposite the waterfall there are several huge rocks which provide a perfect natural observation platform. This is an ideal place for visitors to take photos.

Area: 30,762 square kilometers (11,877 square miles)

Nationalities: Han, Gelao, Miao

Administrative Division: 2 districts (Huichuan, Honghuagang); 8 counties (Zunyi, Tongzi, Suiyang, Zheng’an, Fenggang, Meitan, Yuqing, Xishui); 2 autonomous counties (Daozhen Gelao and Miao Autonomous County, Wuchuan Gelao and Miao Autonomous County); 2 county-level cities (Chishui, Renhuai)

Seat of the city government: No.343, Renmin Road, Huichuan District, Zunyi City

Useful Telephone Numbers:
Tourist Complaints: 0852-8234910, 9259053
Weather Forecast: 121
Zip Code Inquiry: 184

Bank of China Zunyi Branch: No.1, Minzhu Road, Honghusgang District, Zunyi City

China Post Zunyi Branch: No.69, Zhonghua Road (South), Honghuagang District, Zunyi City

Location: Situated in northern Guizhou Province, Zunyi is bordered by Chongqing in the north and in the neighborhood of Luzhou city in Sichuan Province. The capital city of Guizhou, Guiyang, is located 155 kilometers (96 miles) south to Zunyi.

History: From the 8th century BC to the 5th century BC, the domain of present Zunyi was governed by several kingdoms of local ethnic groups. It was in the Western Han Dynasty (206BC-24AD) that the court established county around present Zunyi city proper. Bozhou, the old name of Zunyi had been used for 962 years since the year of 639 in early Tang Dynasty (618-907). Three years later, Luomeng County under Bozhou was changed to Zunyi County. This is the first time the name ‘Zunyi’ occurred.

Physical Features: Zunyi lies in the east of the slope where the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau stretches toward Sichuan and Hunan. The Dalou Mountains zigzags southwest-northeast through the city and divides the city into the southern part with basins, low mountains and hills as the main landforms and the northern area covered by medium mountains and valleys.

Climatic Features: Enjoying a subtropical humid monsoon climate, the city is not bothered with chilly winter and torrid summer. The weather is relatively moderate, and the annual average temperature falls between 13 and 18 degree centigrade (degree Fahrenheit). The rainy season coincides with the heat season.

When to Go: Zunyi is an all-year-round tourist destination. Although it will be hotter in summer, it has many summer resorts to help repelling the summer heat.

Local Highlights:
Gelao minority is the oldest ethnic group in Guizhou. They have their own spoken language but no written language. The third day of the third lunar month is the Spring Festival of the Gelao people.

Furthermore, Guizhou is the origin of Chinese national liquor Maotai. During July and August, Guizhou will hold liquor festival in Zunyi city proper, Maotai Town of Huairen City and Shizhang Cave of Chishui City. Visitors can admire the Shizhangdong Waterfall, Maitai Distillery, and meanwhile taste the local liquors.

Special Local Products: Maotai Liquor, tobacco leaf, wax printing of Miao, Maofeng tea, Chishui sun vinegar

Zhongshan, originally called Xiangshan in ancient Chinese, was renamed in honor of Sun Yat-sen, who was born in nearby Cuiheng in 1866. Sun Yat-sen is regarded as the father of modern China as he devoted himself to the overthrow of the feudal Qing Dynasty and foundation of a new democratic republic in China. When visiting Zhongshan City, you are recommended to visit a series of historical attractions relating to Sun Yat-sen. For example, Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Memorial Hall, the Museum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the Sun Yat-sen Park and even the Sun Wen Xi Road.

In modern times, there has been considerable development of a highway network linked with the maritime transportation on the delta. The local government places a great emphasis upon the development of a pleasant living environment as well as encouraging industrial growth. As a consequence, in recent years, Zhongshan has received a series of honors, such as being nominated the National Clean City and National Garden City of China. In addition the city has been the recipient of the Habitat Scroll of Honor Award of the United Nations.

Currently, Zhognshan is proving to be an attractive city for investors from both home and abroad. The world Fortune Top 500 has set up more than 20 enterprises in the city. At the same time, the local Hi-Tech industry is developing rapidly and occupies an important place in the national market.

Economic development has been accompanied by strong growth of the tourist industry which is becoming a highlight of Zhongshan City. Besides its cultural heritage, the city also offers visitors charming natural surroundings, which include the graceful water townships south of the Pearl River and the splendid ten top views of Zhongshan. You can reach these destinations by taking the convenient urban city-bus or taxi. Of course, during your visit, the delicious local food is a must. The authentic Shiqi Pigeon, the special local products of Wugui Mountain and Xiaolan Town and other local delicacies will tempt your appetite. Furthermore, the famous Cantonese cuisine is to be found in Zhongshan as well as some good quality restaurants serving western food if that is your choice.

After a tiring day’s travel, the Lan Kwai Fang of Zhongshan City is a good place to relax. Should you require a good night’s rest in a comfortable hotel, then the city has good selection of star-rated hotels offering excellent facilities and service.

Area: 12,490 square kilometers (4,822 square miles)

Nationalities: Han

Administrative Division: 4 districts (Chikan, Xiashan, Potou, Mazhang); 3 county-level cities (Wuchuan, Lianjiang, Laizhou); 2 counties (Suixi, Xuwen)

Useful Numbers:
Tourist Complaint: 0759-2262444
Weather Forecast: 121
Zip Code Inquiry: 184
Bank of China: 0759-3380233

Location: Zhanjiang lies in the southwest of Guangdong Province. It is situated in Leizhou Peninsular, neighboring the South Sea in the east and Beibu Gulf in the west. The city is separated from Hainan Province by Qiongzhou Strait.

History: During the Qin Dynasty (221BC-206BC), the area of today’s Zhanjiang belonged to Xiang Shire and the central government of the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD) set Xuwen County administering the whole Leizhou Peninsular. It was one of the earliest departure points on the Marine Silk Road. After the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties, this area began moving forward with big strides.

Physical Features: Most of the land of Zhanjiang City is peninsular or islands. The terrain slopes downward from the north to the south. A plain forms the major area of the city. Its mountainous area is in the northern part of the city.

Climatic Features: The city enjoys a tropical and subtropical monsoon climate with low altitudes, north of the tropic of cancer. Influenced by the ocean climate, Zhanjiang escapes the heat of the summer and chilliness of the winter.

When to Go: Zhanjiang is favorable for visiting at any season because of its comfortable weather.

Local Products: sea food, pearl, sugarcane, blood orange, litchi, sweet potato

Standing on the west bank of the estuary of the Pearl River to the South China Sea, Zhuhai is a gardenlike coastal city with 146 charming islands. With its amazing large green area, the city is a modern ecotypic resort. The beautiful Jingshan Road and Qinglu Road (Lovers’ Road) add romantic atmosphere to Zhuhai. In 1990s, Zhuhai City as a whole was selected as one of the top 40 tourist attractions in China. And in 1998, it won the Dubai International Award for Best Practices to Improve the Living Environment. Since then, Zhuhai has become known to the world as a most suitable place for human living.

Actually, people have lived there since the Neolithic Age four or five thousand years ago. A government administrative department was set up in the area in the Qin Dynasty (221 – 206 B.C.). During the following centuries, the area underwent slow but steady development. In 1953, Zhuhai County was set up there, upgraded to Zhuhai City in 1979. In 1980, a special economic zone was established in Zhuhai. Today, the city has under its jurisdiction three districts, namely, Xiangzhou, Doumen, and Jinwan.

In recent years, Zhuhai has made progress in economic development owning to its advantageous geographical location near Hong Kong and Macao, its ports with excellent conditions, its overseas Chinese contributions, and especially the policy of reform and opening up. Foreign investment, advanced technologies and management methods stimulated the economic boom of Zhuhai. As a result, the transportation and accommodations improved. Diversified transportation links provide a wide range of ways to get there or to travel inside the city. A variety of star rated hotels offer convenience and enjoyment.

The superior advancement in economy promotes the development of tourism of Zhuhai. The moderate climate of Zhuhai makes it an ideal tourist destination all year round. It has many attractions worthy of visiting, including the Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue, New Yuanmingyuan Garden, Pearl Land Amusement Park, Jiuzhou City, Meixi Royal Stone Archways, Huangyang Mountain and Baiteng Lake. Additionally, various appealing islands are recommended such as Dong’ao Island, Gaolan Island, Qi’ao Island and Hebao Island and so on.

The city is a national historical and cultural city and also the first destination for any Henan Tour. The ancient city was the capital of Shang Dynasty (16th – 11th century BC) 3,500 years ago when porcelain and the Chinese technique of bronze smelting were comparatively more developed. A green ceramic glaze pot unearthed in Zhengzhou has been shown to be the most ancient porcelain in China. A long history has left Zhengzhou with many cultural and historic sites. Shaolin Temple situated at the foot of Mt. Song is the cradle of Shaolin Kong Fu. If you are interested in Chinese Kong Fu, the temple and the performances must be seen. One of the four Academies of Classical Learning in the Song Dynasty (960 – 1279), Songyang Shuyuan, gives a complete depiction of Chinese ancient education. In addition, many ancient tombs, temple buildings and battle sites all show the dense culture of Zhengzhou.

Transportation provision in the city is excellent. Arriving and departing, whether by air, train or bus, is a smooth process as Zhengzhou is a center of transportation in middle China. You can find various grades of hotels inside and near the city. With comprehensive facilities, they provide safe and clean places to stay at a reasonable price. As a provincial capital, Zhengzhou is the height of fashionable entertainment and shopping in Henan – you won’t be disappointed. For anyone interested in Chinese ancient history and wishing to know more on it, Zhengzhou is one city that should not be missed.

Evidence suggests Yantai existed as a city as long as 10,000 years ago. It was visited three times by the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty, Qinshihuang (259BC-210BC). During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) a fire platform, called Langyantai Platform, was constructed on the northernmost city hill, as a means of defense against pirates. General Qi Jiguang of the Ming Dynasty fought against pirates using this platform, and developed Penglai Water City, a navy base which remains well-preserved to this day.

Although Yantai is located in North China, monsoons regulate the climate, keeping it warm and humid. The average annual temperature is 11.8C (53.24F). Fruits and vegetables are plentiful in Yantai, and the long coastline and over 60 islands make the area ideal for any seafood connoisseur – sea-cucumbers, abalones, scallops, crabs and prawns, are all easily available. Yantai’s earth is rich with resources as well – its gold reserve, in particular, has the highest output in China.

Adding to the draw of Yantai’s natural resources, the picturesque scenery in and around the city has earned the area acclaim by the United Nations, which lists it as one of the most inhabitable places in the world. Undulating hills rise above the area’s many rivers, and are framed by beaches and neighboring islands.
Yantai’s local food is well-known all around China. Local cooks take advantage of area’s abundant sea food, vegetables and fruits, creatively crafting tasty dishes. Yantai is also the cradle of wine production in China, housing the largest wine production base in Asia. With its high quality and more than 100-years of history, Zhangyu Red Wine from Yantai is a widely known brand in China and abroad. In 1987, the International Grape and Wine Bureau dubbed Yantai the “International Grape and Wine City.”

Today, with the city’s rapid economic development, facilities in Yantai are improving, and transportation is becoming more and more convenient. Ships, trains, airplanes, buses and taxis have modernized daily life and attract tourists to Yantai.

Beautiful Xiuhu Lake and cliffy Songpu Hill attracted a series of historic poets and scholars who were compelled to express their appreciation of the city’s beauty. Yiwu is also the hometown of a number of historic people from ancient times. For example, Luo Binwang – one of the great patriotic poets in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Zong Ze – the patriotic general of Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127), Zhu Danxi – one of the four famous doctors of the Jin and Yuan dynasties as well as Chen Wangdao, Feng Xuefeng and Wu Han, all of whom have made their contributions to the modern China. During your trip to this city, you will have chances to visit their hometowns which lie around Yiwu City.
Yiwu is renowned as a shopping paradise for small commodities. The flourishing markets which take up a large area of the city should not be missed. Yiwu provides a different kind of tour experience, for it is a composite of shopping and tour. The Yiwu International Trade City which makes up the China’s Commodities Trade City with Huangyuan Market and Binwang Market presents you with the city’s unique vigor. This is an excellent place to purchase souvenirs for you and your relatives and friends.

If you would like to explore the city on your own, convenient buses will take you to any corner of the city. On the way, it is easy for you to find some delicious local foods. You can have a good dinner either at the reasonable and friendly roadside booths or at one of the quality restaurants. In addition, foods from other regions of China and western food are available here.

Catering to the city’s prosperous economy and accelerating its urbanization, the city has developed a number of public facilities, including star-rated hotels, convenient transportation and amusement places. You can access the city from Xiaoshan Airport which is connected to Yiwu by frequent shuttle buses. Yiwu welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Yueyang City’s governance covers 3 municipal districts (Yueyang Lou District, Junshan District, Yunxi District), 4 counties (Yueyang County, Huarong County, Xiangyin County, Pingjiang County) and 2 county-level cities (Miluo City, Linxiang City). In Yueyang, the white and beautiful gardenia is its city flower while the flourishing Duying (Long-flowered ehretia) tree is its city tree. The flowers and the trees add a charming lustre to Yueyang.

However, Yueyang’s real charm rests with human cultural relics as well as the natural landscape. The well-known Yueyang Pavilion (Yueyang Lou) is one of the three famous pavilions in South China. China’s second largest freshwater lake Dongting Lake is a good tourist destination in Yueyang. On the lake is located an island called Junshan Hill and is also a good tourist resort. From a cultural aspect, the Miluo River is worthy of a visit because it is the place where the story about ‘Qu Yuan (339BC-278 BC) Drowning in the Miluo River’ happened.

Yueyang is prolific in natural resources due to its rich soil: Yueyang is the agricultural products base for producing high-quality grain, cotton, pigs, fish etc. The agricultural by-products like organic tea, organically grown vegetables and high-quality fruit, Dongting Lake shrimp sell well on the market. Moreover, the freshwater resource is plentiful and advantageous for the development of the plant industry, freshwater fisheries industry and the shipping industry.

Yueyang is a burgeoning industrial city: The Petroleum and Chemical Industry is flourishing, which makes Yueyang the biggest petroleum and chemical base in the mid-south area of China; paper-making, the textile industry and the machine industry are also well developed. Yueyang boasts of Dongting Ramie Textile Printing and a Dyeing Mill which is the biggest in Asia with the textiles being sold to the countries in Southeast Asia and the Occident.

In Yueyang, tourists need no worries in regard to transportation. Tourists can reach Changsha Huanghua International Airport which is only 130 kilometers (80.78 miles) from Yueyang and takes about one hour’s ride on the high-speed motorway to Yueyang. The high-speed motorway system for road transportation has been long established in Yueyang and radiates in all directions. Transportation by water is also convenient in Yueyang because Yueyang is the only port in Hunan Province which is beside the Yangtze River.

Yangshuo lies in the northeast of Guangxi Province and to the southeast of Guilin City. The special geography gives it breath-taking beauty while over 1,400 years of history bless it with a deep traditional culture. The diverse ethnic minority groups including Hui, Zhuang, Yao and others, enrich it with special folk cultures represented by their various festivals; while many foreign residents add exotic flavors to its fascination.

The famous Li River traverses the county and brings it the most beautiful scenery. Along the extremely pure river, thousands of hills stand in different poses and with different expressions, such as Moon Hill, Mural Hill and Schoolboy Hill which is the natural stage of the world famous opera “Impression on Sanjie Liu”. Sanjie Liu is a fairy singer in the legend of the Zhuang minority group. Big Banyan, a huge tree with a history of over 1,400 years, is said to be the place where her love story happened. The ‘Little Li River’- the Yulong River – is a paradise for a cruise because of its green hills, silky water and ancient bridges. You can also go to Xanadu, a primitive minority village full of folk culture and tranquil rurality.
Streets in Yangshuo are well kept in the original style, presenting the simple and primitive atmosphere of the ancient town. West Street is the most exciting one that locals call the “Global Village”. There are not only many foreign tourists, but also quite a number of foreign residents managing cafés and restaurants. The exotic flavor, combined with the traditional culture, make the West Street world famous.