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!
Sanhe Ancient Town (三河古镇), located about 30 kilometers south of Hefei in Anhui Province, is a living relic of Chinese history and culture. Named for the three rivers that meet at its center—丰乐河 (Fengle River), 杭埠河 (Hangbu River), and 小南河 (Xiaonan River)—Sanhe has been shaped by water for over two millennia. The rivers not only gave it…
Pitan (皮蛋), or century egg, is one of the most misunderstood delicacies in Chinese cuisine. Despite the nickname, it’s not actually a hundred years old — it’s usually preserved for a few weeks to a few months using a mix of clay, ash, salt, and other alkaline ingredients. The result? A black, translucent egg white…
China is a vast country with a rich and diverse food culture. Each region has its own distinct flavors, ingredients, and cooking styles — from the delicate dim sum of Guangdong to the hearty wheat-based dishes of the north. But out of all the regional cuisines, my favorite is Sichuan food. Sichuan cuisine stands out…
Chinese taxis have changed a lot in the past decade. They used to be mostly old, gas-powered sedans—often worn out, not especially clean, and with drivers who preferred cash. Now, in most cities, they’re modern, clean, and mostly electric. The shift to electric vehicles has been rapid, especially in major cities, where government policies pushed…
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…
