Only 60 km away from China`s huge cap | -General- | Nov 17, 2008 08:03
Only 60 km away from China`s huge capital Beijing there is this lovely little village called Chuandixia. This village is known for its well preserved 689 Ming and Qing dynasty-style houses owned by 76 families.

These houses are built on the side of a hill. surrounded by mountains and forests. Steep stairs and lanes paved with rocks are simple and unadorned.

The village was rated as a village of great tourist value and has been placed under national level cultural relics protection. It is a great place to take photos. Almost every family at the village now receives tourists.

The village is also near spots like Shuanglong Gorge. with its rivers and falls. the Pearl Lake and the Longmenjian grand canyon.

To get there: take bus 929 from Pingguoyuan subway station to Chuandixia village.
The accommodation: China Hotels booking.

Pingyao, China Travel Tips and Costs | -General- | Nov 13, 2008 06:56
1) If you do plan to spend much time in Pingyao, there are many ancient ruins and courtyard houses to see outside of the city. Tours organized by local hotels or hostels could take you there, but a simple taxi is also a good option.

2) Speaking of taxis, they are available (rickshaws in the city), but if you’re going around the city its best just to walk. Don’t forget to bring good walking shoes, though, because a day on the feet can be a killer! Another option would be to rent a bike, something we weren’t able to do because of the chilly weather.

3) If you’re around Pingyao during the Spring Festival, get excited! Although the temperature might be a bit cold, you’ll forget about the weather when you see all of the decorations, lanterns, and fireworks they put on. Instead of the old grey that usually covers the city you’ll be treated to a display of color and lights that really give the city life.

4) Although you’ll probably pay the general admissions fee to get around the city, don’t go to all the included sites. Most of them just aren’t worth it. Rather, take a stroll around the parts of the city where you don’t see tourist, where the people live. Here you’ll get to really experience a taste of what it was like to live in ancient China. China Hotel here is also afordable as cheap as other place in China.

Cost:
Enter the City and Wander: Free
General Admissions Ticket: 120 RMB per person