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!
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…