Exhibiting A Symbol of Chinese Culture – Beijing Chrysanthemum Festival

The capital of China, and one of the world’s most developed cities, is Beijing. This developed metropolis is the hub of China’s political, cultural and economic activities, and is also one of the busiest cities in the world. Although transformed into a modern urban city, Beijing is still a great place to witness traditional culture as it is home to many historic landmarks and museums, and is also the site of many world class cultural events which attract numerous tourists.

An annual festival of Beijing which celebrates a traditional symbol of Chinese culture is the Beijing Chrysanthemum Festival. The Chrysanthemum is a flower which belongs to the family of Asteraceae flowers, which are known for their bright colours and beauty. For centuries the Chinese people have grown Chrysanthemums which has resulted in the flower being closely associated with the culture of China. The Chrysanthemum is also one of the ‘Four Gentlemen’ in Chinese folk art.

Usually celebrated from the end of September to the end of November, the Beijing Chrysanthemum Festival is a colourful and grand affair. The Festival has been celebrated for over 20 years and soon gaining a reputation of being an extremely popular event amongst locals. With the cool autumn breeze blowing this time of year, visitors can really experience a unique festival which displays various species of Chrysanthemums in different sizes and shapes. In parks all over Beijing this festival is celebrated, yet some parks celebrate it grander than the rest. Beihai Park, for example, is one of the most visited parks during the festival as is showcases over 20,000 Chrysanthemums! Zhongshang Park is also a great place to visit during the festival as it had many Chrysanthemum displays and flower shows with other flowers as well. Likewise, Tiantan Park and the Beijing Botanical Garden are also great places to visit during the Beijing Chrysanthemum Festival.

With hotels and resorts spread our all over the globe, the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels group is one with a reputation for excellence in service and hospitality. Operating 9 hotels in China, located in several key tourist destinations, these hotels offer a host of services and amenities which will make your stay all the more memorable and comfortable. So if you are looking for Greater China hotels to stay in while on your visit to China, make a reservation with the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels China.

Marco Polo Bridge – An attraction like no other

Travellers looking to make the most of their holiday should opt for a Beijing luxury hotel such as Grand Millennium Beijing as a City Hotel Beijing such as this always ensures maximum comfort. A renowned stone bridge located to the west of the Beijing city center, Marco Polo Bridge spans across the Yongding River, the water of which has been diverted to a number of different areas of the city. With a width of 9.3 metres and length of 266.5 meters, the bridge is supported on 11 segmental arches and 10 piers. Both sides of the bridge are adorned by uniquely designed stone lions from various eras. The fascinating aspect about these statues is that there are more lions made on their head, paws and under the belly. The Wanping Fortress is located at the bridge’s eastern end adding to the overall splendour of the bridge.

 

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Shuinan Village in Hainan Island – Discovering a Traditional Way of Life

Set amidst scenic coastal landscapes, the enchanting Hainan Island is part of the People’s Republic of China and offers an idyllic getaway by the sea. This island in the South China Sea is a great place to set off on excursions and apart from the picturesque natural scenery, one will also find several sites of interest that provide insight into the region’s rich history, culture and heritage. One such site worth visiting is Shuinan Village which lets you get an idea of traditional village lifestyle.

Situated around 45 kms from Sanya City, Shuinan Village can be found at the Yacheng Town area. The locale is well known for its fertile rice fields, while fishing is also a livelihood practiced here. Bordered by both the sea and hills, this charming village offers a fascinating day of exploration and adventure for nature lovers as well as throe seeking to soak up some local culture.

Shuinan Village is also famous for being the place where Huang Daopo, credited for pioneering weaving technology during the Yuan Dynasty, once stayed and studied. Thus it is no surprise that weaving and spinning technology thrived in the village which became famed for the textiles it produced. When here, make sure to visit one of the shops where you can see the actual clothes making process.

As you explore the area you will come across breathtaking views of the natural scenery that abounds. Home to lush green bamboo filled landscapes, coconut and betel trees and colourful flowers, it offers nature lovers plenty of hours of exploration.

If you want to visit another traditional village on the island then plan a trip to Wenchang’s Gusong Village, while other sites of interest one can head to include South Bay Monkey Island, Sanya Beach and the Nanshan Tourism Area where you will find a Shaolin Buddhist temple.

Travellers heading to the region and looking for a Sanya resort by the sea from which to explore this island can consider Anantara Sanya Resort & Spa. Set against backdrops of both the coast and mountain landscapes, this resort in Sanya also has a spa where you can enjoy a range of holistic healing treatments and therapies.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+