China is a vast and diverse destination in East Asia, offering a unique mix of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and modern cities. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army, or experience the bustling energy of cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The country’s natural beauty ranges from the dramatic karst mountains of Guilin to the deserts of the Silk Road and the tranquil lakes of Hangzhou. With its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and fascinating traditions, China promises an unforgettable travel experience. Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!
The ride to Kamba La Pass is as thrilling as it is breathtaking—literally. As the vehicle winds its way up the steep, twisting road, the air grows noticeably thinner, and the effects of high altitude begin to set in. At 4,794 metres (15,728 feet) above sea level, altitude sickness is a real concern, especially for…
The Potala Palace is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towering over Lhasa, Tibet. Originally built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, it was later expanded in the 17th century by the 5th Dalai Lama, becoming the primary residence of successive Dalai Lamas until the 14th fled to India in…
Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, is the most sacred and important temple in Tibetan Buddhism. Located in Lhasa, it was built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo to house a sacred statue of Jowo Shakyamuni, believed to be one of the most revered images of Buddha. A mix of Tibetan, Nepalese,…
Step into a Tibetan monastery, and the air hits you with a thick, unmistakable scent—earthy, rancid, smoky, and oddly rich. That’s yak butter candles at work. These traditional butter lamps, burning day and night as offerings, fill the temples with a dense aroma that clings to the ancient wooden beams and centuries-old murals. Yak butter,…
Drepung Monastery, perched on the outskirts of Lhasa, Tibet, is a sprawling labyrinth of whitewashed walls and golden roofs. Once the largest monastery in the world, it was home to nearly 10,000 monks in its heyday, making it a bustling hub of Tibetan Buddhist learning and debate. Today, it’s quieter but no less awe-inspiring, with…
At some hotels in Lhasa, including the more altitude-savvy ones, you might find an oversized balloon filled with oxygen on offer. Yes, a literal lifesaver in latex form, designed for guests struggling with the high-altitude thin air. These O2 balloons are often kept handy at reception or even sent to your room if you’re feeling…
Touching down in Lhasa feels like stepping onto another planet, and not just because the city sits at a dizzying 3,656 metres above sea level. The moment your plane door pops open, you’ll feel the high-altitude air smack you in the lungs. Cabin pressure during the flight keeps things manageable, but as soon as you…
A quick Hong Kong stopover with the X-H1 sounds great, but those camera freezes must have been frustrating. Heat and humidity could definitely be culprits—Hong Kong can be tough on gear, and Japanese summer will put it through an even bigger stress test. Fingers crossed it holds up better next time. At least you got…
What would a trip to China be without a hotpot? It’s a must-try experience, and this time, it included some tasty (and by tasty, I mean flavorful—not making any judgment here) cow stomach. A unique texture and flavor that definitely adds an adventurous twist to the meal. Hotpot never disappoints in delivering surprises!
A Chinese chef skillfully cutting meat for a hotpot—every slice precise and deliberate. Watching the preparation adds to the anticipation of the meal, as the thinly sliced meat is key to the perfect hotpot experience. A mix of culinary art and tradition right before your eyes!
Not the lake, but the streets around the hotel. Hangzhou: skipping the famous West Lake this time and exploring the streets around the hotel instead. A mix of modern shops, local eateries, and everyday life gives a glimpse into the city beyond its tourist spots. Sometimes, the less iconic places are just as interesting!
First lunch in Hangzhou: hunger won out, and I didn’t venture far beyond the mall. It turned out to be one of the few “clean” meals of the week—simple, satisfying, and exactly what I needed to recharge after arriving. Sometimes convenience wins!
The first-class cabin on the high-speed train between Nanjing and Shanghai offers spacious seats and a smooth ride, but the experience falls short in one glaring area—cleanliness. The seats, while comfortable, could use a serious refresh; visible stains and worn upholstery detract from the premium feel you’d expect. It’s a shame because the journey itself…
The high-speed railway station in Nanjing is massive, a testament to China’s infrastructure ambitions. Everything about it feels grand, from the sprawling halls to the endless platforms. While all the signage around the station is bilingual, with English translations thoughtfully included, the ticketing system seems stuck in a monolingual bubble. The ticket counters, displays, and…
Hopping into a taxi in China is always… an adventure. The “pleasant” aroma of air fresheners battling other, less identifiable scents sets the tone. And the driving? Let’s just say it’s not for the faint-hearted—lanes are suggestions, horns are conversational tools, and speed limits seem optional. It’s a ride that keeps you alert, with a…