This blog is in Chinese AND English. Welcome readers from all over the world!
China: Portrait of A People, Tom Carter 历时两年倾力打造。一路跟随，遍布中国每一个省份，这里是中国，这里是我们的故事。Hannah 和Tom，一段快乐而又不一样的旅程！故事在这里叙述，心情在这里流淌，旅程由此开始......
Tom and Hannah traveled across China to create CHINA: Portrait of a People, the most comprehensive book of photography on modern China ever published (2008, Blacksmith Books). But here is the story behind this book; the story and photos of our backpacking adventures in China...
Travel photographer Tom Carter is on the March 2012 cover of Beijing Today.
“Too many foreigners and tourists come to China only to see a few famous sites or live in a single city like Beijing or Shanghai, then they leave without ever really knowing the country or its people,” Carter said. “But I wanted to see it all.” That’s exactly what he did. Carter has traveled more than 56,000 kilometers across all 33 provinces, stopping at more than 200 cities and villages.
Beijing Today, 今日北京, first published in 2001, is the capital’s only English weekly newspaper. It prints and circulates 50,000 copies every Friday in conjunction with China Youth Daily and Beijing Youth Daily, the official newspapers of China's Communist Youth League.
Tom Carter's ground-breaking 640-page coffee table book CHINA: Portrait of a People made its official world-wide debut this summer of 2010, and the response has been really great!
So far 60 customer reviews on Amazon. Plus a fantastic review by China Daily newspaper, who said:
"There is no single image that can adequately represent the diversity that is China. This is partly why Tom Carter's 638-page tome of photographs taken during his tour of the country between 2006 and 2008 works so well... It's not a travel guide showing China dressed in its Sunday best, or a photojournalistic approach documenting the underbelly of the country, but rather a peek at the sights Carter has seen and a corrective to both the glowing promotional images and negative Western media shots that we are all familiar with."
Also, CNN "Go" interviewed Tom about his China travel adventures, Shanghai Talk magazine gave Tom's book its cover story, and Tom will also be speaking about his photography on behalf of the USA Pavilion at the Shanghai Expo on August 15th.
It seems the world finally knows about CHINA: Portrait of a People, even though we completed our backpacking journey across China more than 2 years ago. Like the old saying goes, "good things come to those who wait."
So for anyone planning on backpacking in China, or working in China as an expat, take a look at CHINA: Portrait of a People to inspire you. With over 800 pictures of Chinese people and places, this book will encourage you to follow in Tom Carter's trail-blazing path across the 33 provinces of China. Order it today on Amazon.com; it's finally available anywhere in the world!
Hi everyone! Just to let you know, Tom and I are now in India. We will be backpacking across ALL 35 states/territories for a year or so to photograph Tom's next book, INDIA: Portrait of a People. India is a fascinating, colorful yet extremely challenging country to travel in (Tom and I were even arrested by the Mumbai police for "trespassing" in a slum!); I miss China very much already, and even though it is very difficult for us Chinese to get a long-term tourist visa from the Indian Consulate (political reasons) so I can stay here a year, I remain optimistic! Check back often for updates, and expect a VERY interesting India photo blog from us following the completion of our trip. In the meantime, you can view some of Tom's very first photos of India on Flickr INDIA TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY or his new blog INDIA PHOTOGRAPHER, and read Tom's official INDIA PRESS RELEASE. Thanks again for all your support of my China travel blog and Tom's China photo book CHINA: Portrait of a People.
Here following is Tom and Hannah's China travel internary for the making of CHINA: Portrait of a People, the most comprehensive book of photography on modern China ever published by a single author. Actually before we set out for this long trip together, Tom already lived in China 2 years and took another year for his first journey acrossing China, from north to south, east to west, footprint in every province. But for this great epic photo book project, we went AGAIN. Being objective, we try to show the real China just as we saw in our eyes. What I really want to say here is that it's Tom let me know the real China, though I'm a real Chinese. It's him opened my eyes. Thank you so much! So for new readers of this blog, here please join us to experience this great trip (click on the name of the province below to read that post and see pictures from there). Have fun! And whether you are a global backpacker, and expat in China or an armchair traveler, please check out CHINA: Portrait of a People (published 2008 in Hong Kong by Blacksmith Books & Haven Books).
经过Tom Carter 两年时间的拍摄，一年时间的准备，CHINA: Portrait of A People 一书终于有香港出版社Blacksmith Books了，同时也受到了一些媒体的关注和好评，再次表示感谢，同时也希望有更多的朋友喜欢这本书关注这本书，谢谢!!!
These are some recent book review blurbs of CHINA: Portrait of a People: “除非您想自己通过两年的时间艰苦跋涉，不怕艰难险形去拍摄您自己的图片，那这将是一本您书架上很值得学习的书籍。”- South China Morning Post "Unless you want to undertake your own two-year trek through some of the mainland's most difficult terrain to take your own shots, this is a study well worth having on your bookshelf." - South China Morning Post “CHINA: Portrait of a People不仅仅是一份亲华的田园诗般的纪念品，而是一份永久的文献，作为最真实而又有教育意义的当代书籍中的一本，传承一代又一代。”- New Asia Books "CHINA: Portrait of a People is not just an idyllic souvenir for Sinophiles, but a timeless piece of literature that...can be passed down through the dynasties as one of the most honest and educational illustrated books on contemporary China ever published." - New Asia Books http://www.newasiabooks.org/review/battle-china-portrait-books-0 “这本800张的图片集描绘了中国的美丽和全面，以及它的人民，这是永远也无法用言语来描绘的.”- the Beijinger "The collection of 800 photos paints a beautiful, comprehensive portrait of China and its people in a way that words never could." - the Beijinger “ China: Portrait of a People是一个国家一个时代巨大变化的写照，从中国人的多样、魅力及地理特征真实形象的勾勒出了我们中国人。也许这不会是一本畅销书，但作为社会纪实，有着非凡的持久价值。这不是一本关于长城或桂林等中国风景的咖啡桌书籍，同样这也不是一本旅游书籍，尽管它会更多的激发很多人想去亲眼看一下中国。”- China.Org "China: Portrait of a People is a snapshot of an entire country in a time of great change; a truthful and touching portrayal of the Chinese people in all their variety, charm and earthiness. As such, even if it does not turn out a best-seller, it will have lasting value as a social document. This isn't a coffee table book of the Great Wall or the quintessentially Chinese landscapes of Guilin. It isn't a travel book either, although it may well inspire many to come see China for themselves." - China.Org http://www.china.org.cn/culture/2008-12/11/content_16935071.htm “跟其他摄影书籍不同的是，China: Portrait of a People (由Blacksmith Books出版， 635页，280元)是一本便携式的书籍。没有过多的地理风景或观光的照片，Carter注重诠释33个省市特区56个民族的特征和生活方式。”- Beijing Today "Instead of similar photo books, China: Portrait of a People (published by Blacksmith Books, 635 pages, 280 yuan) is a more portable volume. Rather than focus on geographic, landscape or sight-seeing photos, Carter focuses on the distinct features and lifestyles that define the nation’s 56 ethnic groups collected in 33 provinces." - Beijing Today http://bjtoday.ynet.com/article.jsp?oid=46139622 "Tom Carter是一位很特别的摄影师，他的作品强有力的抓住了中国人的心和灵魂。“- Anchee Min, author of Red Azalea and Empress Orchid "Tom Carter is an extraordinary photographer whose powerful work captures the heart and soul of the Chinese people." - Anchee Min, author of Red Azalea and Empress Orchid “Tom Carter 的图片书籍，真实客观的记录了中国人我们的生活方式。通过他的镜头广泛的让我们领略了33省的真实和梦幻。”- Mian Mian, author of Candy "Tom Carter's photo book is an honest and objective record of the Chinese and our way of life- his camera leads us through 33 wide-sweeping scenes of the real and the surreal." - Mian Mian, author of Candy
### 有关CHINA: Portrait of a People一书的所有评论您可以通过以下链接读取： You can read ALL of the CHINA: Portrait of a People reviews here: http://www.blacksmithbooks.com/9789889979942.htm 如果您需要购买我们的书，您可以在以下网站或北京书虫Bookworm和东八十区TimeZone 8（798内）购买： And if you want to help support our book, you can purchase it only online at these links, or at these bookshops in Beijing at The Bookworm or TimeZone 8 (at 798):
Come to party, Resonant Sand Gorge and Grassland, Inner Mongolia
In July 20 sit from Nanning boards the train, entire 24 hours later arrives at Shijiazhuang. Must wait for six hours only then to arrive at the time to go to Huhhot. I look at the thing in the waiting hall, Tom exit to saunter. Since the gap which waits in me, Tom unexpectedly accidental pats being pregnant which we have wanted. Originally Tom entered a small supermarket, the master has just been pregnant, the belly was special big, was very friendly, spoke on own initiative with Tom, knew that Tom wanted to photograph, the very refreshed agreement, under her husband's accompanying, according to, Tom has also gone to the nearby photo studio to wash came out to give them, each other was very happy. Especially we, are really you wear out iron shoes in hunting round, must come to not need the effort!
In July 22 earlies morning finally arrived at Huhhot, here is raining, finds hostel to stay. This hostel cannot the male and female roommate, our room gap not be very far fortunately, is four worlds.
I go, already had the Japanese women to live in inside, 30-40 year-old appearance, will not speak Chinese, also not English, but my Japanese already forgot to be smooth, a character could also not think unexpectedly. Afterward is admitted to a Hong Kong female student, is lives as the exchange to Beijing, here comes to play. Before her, has gone to many places, but is a person, likes a person travelling, even goes to Xinjiang more than one months is a person! Young female student Chinese is good, English is better, had not thought that Japanese is also very good, such very quick chatted with the Japanese women. Here she comes only then for 34 days, therefore cannot catch up with the Nadam festival, the second day together participated in the hostel relation travel agency with the Japanese women to look at the prairie and the desert.
Tom that room has been occupied by the age big foreigner, this strange foreigner each time goes to China's big city hostel to stay for several days, but always untrue exits to play. Also some China male, over 30 years old, are do the plan, resigned come Inner Mongolia to look that specially the temple research, it is said before has studied the Buddhist studies. He 93 year already had gone to Tibet, afterward has gone one time, even has witnessed the celestial burial. It is said the Tibetan eats and drinks extravagantly in the celestial burial process sings, is very happy.
I with Tom or the original plan, stroll Huhhot 24 to travel by vehicle Gergen the Tala prairie. Preceding evening which wants in us, my room comes in two people, a Chinese and a black. This Chinese has not spoken a Chinese from beginning to end, also does not speak with me, but this black greatly is actually opposite, talkative friendly. Knew from her that they also equally must go to Gergen tomorrow with us the Tala prairie Nadam grand meeting, but they rented a car several people to go, probably is that Chinese female relation. Anyway, everybody each does what he thinks is right.
Early morning's bus Che Haoji, buys the ticket can only to four princes the flag, then probably look for the vehicle to be able Gergen Tala! Is good has 67 people on the vehicle is goes to that just added up to a vehicle, the driver is also good, helps us to look for a vehicle, a half hour later arrived at Gergen Tala. Here lodging is a yurt, two people, four people and six people, what we select is 180 that kind, is cheapest, just takes the same bus two girls who comes together good which chats with us, therefore adds up to a room with us. Therefore to half minute one evening 90, we have paid two evenings.
This is two very strange girls, also does not have anything originally, they are old schoolmates are Wuhan play, is almost big with me, one is school English teacher, likes speaking, is much longer gently, the long finger can smoke, boyfriend in Gansu. Another has gone abroad to study, does not like speaking, boyfriend in Shenzhen. Our all conversations with the question are the first girl replied that even if has some questions to held responsible the second girl, was very strange, likes the girl who spoke embracing completely.
Here yurt presses the number to arrange, with the earth the ground which builds with the stone, inside has a red table and a cabinet, ground is the ceramic tile, above has spread the strip wool blanket. On has piled bunk's mattress which and the quilt depending on the wall nearby six people may use, evening sleeps time gives opens the shop above the wool blanket, inside the tent has the power source which the lamp but does not have to be possible to charge, needs the words want on to serve the hall only then to have. Daytime's time tent peak may pull open is exposed to light, evening or rains time gives again draws. The restroom in outside, every several other rows has a modernized restroom, washes the face also in that. Here will be sooner or later good coolly, washes the face time Shui Gengliang. Certainly here also has the very luxurious yurt, is situated above the wheel. Also has some save time build.
The official Nadam festival is in July 25 begins, our one day, just everywhere walks early has a look. Here already many wore the Mongolian splendid attire's person to welcome the guest, may take a group photo. Here does not have the restaurant, has several slightly, thing good expensive, the skewered mutton takes a 3 dollar string. On has a small restaurant to the yurt not far street nearby, with that two girls meal, is inside similarly together the tent, outside the tent also has the sheep's head which this just cut down to suspend that. A onion explodes the mutton, has not been seeing several mutton unexpectedly, is the onion completely, other vegetables are also very few, a spot is not materially beneficial.
Inner Mongolia's prairie was probably already not in concept green and luxuriant, the breeze blow grass low present cattle and sheep. Here grass is sparse, pastes is well-grounded, felt that is together the plain, compares with the prairie is really far from. But it is said Inner Mongolia also very little could see the beforehand prairie, must arrive at the very far Hulunbuir development the place not to be able to see nearly. Walks in does not have on grass's prairie, occasionally bumps into a camel, simple and honest lovable is being affectionate with us. Walks the distant point occasionally can bump into Mongolian others, with the earth the house which builds with the grass, will not speak the standard spoken Chinese, depending on horse breeding life.
Evening, these two girls came back to take a thing, said that was must live to Mongolian others who just knew, therefore the entire evening has not come back. Next day, here presented the happy festive atmosphere, many people! Old times' words Nadam was needs to buy a ticket, this year does not have, but opening ceremony's performance must have the ticket talented person to be possible to enter the auditorium, moreover was cannot buy, was good can gather round the parapet in everybody to look. The opening ceremony has many giving a performance, rides a horse, the wrestling, sings, the Mongolian clothing demonstrated that many. Time most thrilling starts the admission, therefore people splendid attire, but the line, pile of high beautiful women put on the imperial palace aristocrat's magnificent clothes to bring the crown particularly, gradually walks, all cameras were insane. Also has is the short and stout wrestling expert, only then 20 years old, the body weight has 110kg, is also the object which everybody struggles grabs the moment to take a picture.
Afterward has the program which many may play, rides a horse likely rides the camel, but also has the glide airplane, 2501 people. In here, we also really before having bumped into, my room's that Chinese and that black, this Chinese girls greets unexpectedly on own initiative with us, what said is Chinese, who starts me not to recognize her is, is thought felt strange she speaks on own initiative with me. Her side has also stood a snow white female, good attractive, originally is a Thai, actually mixed the innumerable national blood, goes to school in the US. Inconceivable, I black am thought by the human am the Thai, but this white is the same with Snow White.
The entire Nadam festival continues for several days, but is probably lively on the opening ceremony, after in the afternoon, did not have anything.
I have ridden a horse, 100 dollars. First time rides, some people are bringing, jolts my buttocks good sore, a bit faster, the heart felt slightly must jump, was uncomfortable. Has ridden to the Mongolian cairn comes back again. Tom to horse allergy, therefore hides by far.
Here has many many camels to set free a captured animal, what moreover this piece also is really the green grass lap waste, is specially attractive, it is said is the result which irrigates specially. Here camel also good enthusiasm, has a tiny tot, saw us with to see mother to be the same, acted like a spoiled brat with us, did not ask us to leave, often on vertical, has scared on the contrary both of us, the small camel was also bigger than us. Finally we escaped finally in the small camel pitiful look.
The second day we wait for the vehicle load on one truck, the luck to be good very early, is waited till by us. To four princes the flag, again arrives at Huhhot, arrives at the Dongsheng Erdos again. Patter drainings the light rain, Erdos is very ordinary, good is small, just emerged, but also thought that could find many system sheep sweatshirt's factory, had not found, disappointed turned over.
In July 26, rush to sound Shawan from Dongsheng, gets out down from the high speed road to walk 3 kilometers only then to arrive at the destination, is actually not very far, was only our Bao Dutai has sunk, each person of two packages, the back added the front, in the sur- hand's plastic bag, was the same with the Long March, walks with difficulty. Occasionally had the vehicle to pass by from the side, as soon as inquired that took 20 dollars, only then not.
Walks rests, saw the sand finally, victory is in sight! Accepts as a memento first, this is we last station!
To the place which all large carts anchored, but must downward walk, actually had the vehicle to get down, but we have missed the station, therefore walked. Also thought that can live in the desert, but here can only live completely in is far away from the desert in the house, is the standard, several hundred. Although has the cable car to be possible to pass directly that side the desert. We decided that carries the package downward to walk, goes to the desert to have a look first. Under the unexpectedly accidental discovery also has the small advantage yurt, only then 60 dollar one evening, immediately we paid money. Bought in proprietress that has gone against the cowboy hat, ten dollars. Wears the hat, very cool we embarked, marches the desert, the checkpoint place buyed a ticket, is suitable the tall ladder to climb up the desert, the eye does not dare downward to look, more upward crawls the leg to be softer, imagines side with difficulty the human happy in toward slides from, did that heart jump?
Unexpectedly also has the roller coaster in the desert, looks that climbs up that mountain top from this mountain top, whiz getting down, is listening to above the human again oh oh calls straight, stimulates very much. Also many ride the camel. Also has the beautiful sand sculpture, lifelike, huge incomparable. Is some art academies student does, the surface can maintain about a half year with some special colloids.
I have walked with Tom toward the desert deep place, nobody's place, because everybody is actually plays in the desert edge. But only then truly the time which walks toward in can truly understand desert vast US. Golden yellow golden yellow, dodges under the sunlight. Sound Shawan, brings loudspeaker's sand dune, will be as the name suggests will call to make the sound, it is said that will be the light like frog “quack quack” the cry, the heavy piece of elephant automobile, the airplane will thunder, also like the startling thunderclap will pass through the ear, will look like the symphony which a tune will rush spiritedly. What but unfortunately is, these days are the weather which rains dusky, the sand are not very dry, we are also unable to understand the sound Shawan's mystery.
Is climbing over one by one desert mountain top with Tom, somewhat low-lying department head the green grass, the high mountain top is crawling easily, got down only to be able to slide or to run, steep high, ran while calls, or lay down on the sand dune, under the light sunlight was lying down, really did not want to walk, also not dirty, was the whole body sand. All sand dunes are the same with the clever axe finger of God, limitless, is really attractive, was only a pity, the day is not very good, the sunlight is insufficient, has not been able to keep its charm!
The second day of dusky day, we planned that does not pause, in the morning goes to Baotou, middle must transfer the vehicle. Who knows the station which arrives is east Baotou, at sixes and sevens, the surroundings also do not have what big store, the human are noisy incomparable, any people have. Then, we suddenly decided that did not go to Baotou, went home directly Beijing, finished this journey, marked the period for a half year knapsack life.
In we wait in train station time, Tom exits to saunter, has bought the bottle milk liquor to my father. Afterward I buy the fruit. How hadn't thought that I am hit unexpectedly by the human. The matter is this, train station square that has many sells the fruit, as soon as the human looked that is a careless person, I want to buy the mango originally, but huge each surpasses more than one catty. Afterward I have selected three peach in one, one 51 catties, the peach are not big, that middle-aged woman said that more than one catty, must six, I think the short weight originally together, said that five, who knew this female specially horizontal, turned hostile immediately, embarrassed, I most dislike like this, is not satisfactory I only then not to buy. This crazy woman grasped the melon seed which sold her to throw unexpectedly immediately my body, which have I received this, moreover was bewildered, followed closely me also to grasp has retaliated for her. I have been then miserable, let alone my first time to hers vicious beating, I hit her immediately, the vigor turned her. The side peddler also clamors is hitting me. In my hand buys potato chips anything fell completely to ground, I had been at that time silly, was really wants to cry to be mad, mounted the pedal to run toward waiting room Tom that the ground potato chips did not manage.
Tom does not dare to believe that but he said considers as finished, picks the thing.
I put, I long such big, which has received this, has not bumped including father and mother, today let this insane married woman for hit unexpectedly, was simply lawless, moreover she hit that ruthlessly, said anything not to be able like this. More wants to jump over is not convinced, the my always first time reported to the police, has hit 110. Then I pick my potato chips, that dead woman stares me unexpectedly, wicked. Then, I at heart am planning, then throws by the speed quickly her bag of melon seeds ground, hurries to run toward the train station, what is pitiful, falls short, I run unexpectedly she, is held by this insane married woman. Tom saw one is this vixen tows me toward the outside to walk, I shout wildly save a life, like this she did not dare to hit me at least. Then in all square's people encircle, unexpectedly all spear points aim at me, said that I bully old person, asks this female also 30-40 years old, but also some people hit me directly from the behind. Tom hurries the staff who found the waiting room to help to look at the package, came out to rescue me. Was good very quickly has come in police, asked me to leave immediately, that dead woman also went all out to entrain me, was simply insane. My hand arm gave scratches and tears. Too hateful. Is good is being shocking but not dangerous, safe returned to the waiting room with Tom. After the staff hear, said that definitely is also that female, always causes trouble. I am mad the whole body to tremble. What Tom rejoiced is I exits not to wear my hat luckily, otherwise looks like the outside areas to come, must take a beating L! Really had not thought that travel of the final conclusion was unexpectedly this appearance, which for a half hasn't year gone, went home, to be bewildered before unexpectedly by the human for punches. Starts to be mad must die, afterward thinks that starts to smile, was too inconceivable. Especially when Tom with all waiting room's person looks that I scene which is towed by that lunatic, with develops the television to be the same simply!
No matter what, sat four spots the train to be possible to go home finally.
In July 29 past 5:00 am arrived at Beijing station, 6:30 were proficient.
As soon as ha-ha, toward ground throws the pocket, hurries to go to bed sleeps, anything did not think that dirty was also the matter which woke! Ha, the happy time arrived finally!!!
Township of the world fifth longevity, multi-color national minority, Guangxi
In July 13, going by car early from Liennan to continually the state, seven spots again goes by car from the state arrives at Guangxi continually eight steps (Hezhou), again Che Caidaowho sits four-and-a-half hours from Hezhou Guilin. Actually from the map looked that Guilin is very near with Liennan, is only here is the mountainous area completely, therefore tosses about to 4:00 pm only then arrives at Guilin. Hostel nearby the Lijiang River on, many people swims in the Lijiang River. Gets down calmly in hostel, we take to bring with the swim suit to arrive at the Lijiang River directly.
Lijiang River, elementary school's time knew from the textbook that flowings the river water US and the clear spirit. Flowings the river water to be very shallow, very clear is very actually anxious. Is stepping on under foot's stone pebbles, the foot, cannot come to a stop very much. Although other people happy talks and laughters are kidding around in the water, but will not tour to my this a person spot is unamusing, as soon as the fluent rapids, I will float am suitable the water to take advantage of opportunity, will stop cannot stop, say nothing of could stand. Tom rescues my upward belt's time, but against the current on specially uses energy, therefore plays two has been unamusing.
In addition the time which comes window-shops eats the snack. The Hostel geographical position is very good, has several minutes that far to the pedestrian street. Here is crowded, in pedestrian street snack many accepting, Guilin Rice noodle Shop, is linking particularly, were too many. Is first eats various types the string, explodes burns, gathers round the human many, eats the human looks at the fragrance, we have also wanted many, but to our between lips had thought that a spot is not delicious, recalled that explodes the oil became dark.
The sushi shop, the Tom belly is not good, therefore the decision eats this, is very fine, the flavor is good.
I planned that tastes the Guilin rice noodle, has selected a shop, here outside has suspended many big gears, lobster anything a big pile, is very attractive. We have wanted the plate small tomato, adds bowl of elements to fry the rice noodle. Strange, did not understand that delicious method, the feeling is very how ordinary, moreover component good few, several green vegetables. And so on pays a bill, usually fries the rice noodle to take 10 dollars unexpectedly, then I discovered that the neighbouring table that side menu selects with me is dissimilar. As soon as looks at the price, has missed many, above that the meat fries the powder also only then 8 dollars. I ask the service person, the service person cannot say the reason why, can only be depressed said that possibly made a mistake. It is not convinced, wants their manager to apologize with me, why gives my menu not to be dissimilar. Manager said that thought you are the foreigner, how to know that you can understand Chinese menu, but also thinks oneself infallible especially, said that anything does not apologize. I take the menu, they block are snatching, this street's restaurant especially is prosperous, their family is not exceptional, therefore I enter in their room directly the dining room, informs everybody to have two difference in price menus, said that as soon as, I throw the menu, walked.
Had not thought really, so. Actually, foreigner's price wants high somewhat, which has the occurrence. But I that sit in that straight in vain bullies the human in my eye under one's nose, is too not concerned about face.
No matter what, this kind of matter in others' domain, hurries good which dodges! Ha-ha!
We also wrote on the hostel bulletin fence must be careful!
Hostel, our room is six beds, we go in already had one person to move, is a male Chinese. When he sees me, surprised serious, how can hostel the male and female roommate. I said that basically hostel is may. He also surprised again and again said that he has travelled many places, the first time bumps into. Really makes much ado about nothing! Those who let me happy is, after us, two British females move, ha, I good rejoiced that is female, but is not male, lets this person grow in experience. These two female only then 19,20 years old, is very young, before has toured Thailand, exposes to the sun is in sharp contrast. What is enviable, a female has a diary, each day-long program writes in inside, special detailed, but also has some commemoration small tips. Looks at me again, although Tom reminds me to keep a diary every day, but I always tired raise come not vigorously, also has written a down stroke on the general idea. Compares their coming, really lets me be ashamed! They are how have the commemoration significance, but may also pass on from generation to generation, takes the treasure!
Hostel staircase corner that has DVD to look that two girls in that looked 13 goings to 30, the leading lady is in Ailla that position, ultra likes. Therefore I have also joined their ranks. After coming back, I have also bought the small dish, looked again and again.
The second day wakes, is raining unexpectedly, Tom does not have the sound of something astir, I unexpectedly will not be able to fall asleep, will lie down in that is tossing about. After getting up, in the afternoon transfers inside Guilin. Wow, Guilin US in scenery, what is special is in the city is also the mountain, the building of residence is pasting the mountain. The senior citizen rest and recreation also in the cave, cool takes shelter from the rain, but also some people live in the cave. The temple is also linking the cave, good unusual. Guilin this also has an island village, on the ship others is catching the fish. On the island, in here, had the game cock unexpectedly, under the tent, encircled many people, under the field the master examined that the game cock the condition, on the field two chickens intense were fighting, was very lively!
In July 15, rains, past 10:00 beds go to the station, bought the ticket to go to Nanning. From 11:40 past 4:00 pm only then, have carried the package to toss about several stations to determine finally moves in nearby the train station.
Without hostel, asked several, we have been admitted to the Chaoyang hotel finally, inside this is inexpensive, 501, have the air conditioning. Afterward we only then discovered that inside this has many knapsack foreigners to move. Our that in three.
Three building's turning points have many young female sits chats, also young, but is much longer. Tom guessed that definitely is that kind. Sure enough, evening has the telephone to come, I meet, does not have the sound. Second time, the telephone sound, Tom meets, female asks must massage, the Tom practical joke asked the how much money, then reach an agreement. Also really some people will have knocked on a door, I will earn the gate. Not a high not thin medium stature's female, is also long may, definitely had not thought that can be female opening the door, asked I some people hit a moment ago telephone. I told her definitely am make a mistake the room. Ha-ha!
Inquired with the hotel Baise should also have puts on the traditional clothes, therefore we decided that goes to me first in on-line Zha Dao Pama, goes to Baise again. The second day took a seat early in the morning boards spends four hours only then to arrive at Pama.
Material demonstration: The Guangxi Bama Yao Autonomous County was still maintains until now the complete primitive ecology the virgin land, here had the mysterious evil spirit hole, was township of the world fifth longevity. But the Pama county anything did not look that we look for the shop to stay first, then inquired.
Arrived at Jiazhuan Town first, here just is the day which goes to the market, was only the time already not early, the human was not many. In here, first time sees with a meter about long ten centimeter that thick bamboo pump smoke, but also has Zhuang national minority's women to hold in the mouth the tobacco pipe to do business. Approaches has a Zhuang national minority village, just sheared the rice, many are being busy in the place is 70-80 year-old person, thin, but spiritual especially good. Here is the mountainous area, old person is not idling, in addition the air good water is good, cheerful, nature on longevity.
Hears the distant place the Palestinian plate to store the village, there has is hundred year-old person, as soon as for sees elderly person's elegant demeanor, we have made contact with a motorcycle, toward mountain in deep place. Here is very poor, the house very broken, as soon as arrives at the village spigot, saw township of - Pakistan plate the world fifth longevity stores index plate. The village is very small, as soon as the human inquired with the village, the centenarian, everybody knew, pointed at a new lid's house saying that was, in home. Is actually very strange, felt that probably everybody knew comes this to look at the centenarian. Afterward only then knew, but the local travel agency must arrange a program. Greets us is old person's grandson, 30 several, already were several child's fathers, but seemed also the 20-30 years old. And so on centenarians come out, the sound is loud and clear, thin healthy, spiritual especially good, particularly shakes hand with us the strength of hand may be big, was really unbelievable this already is 109 year-old advanced age. On the wall has in the village which one several years ago illuminate centenarian's group photo, other not, although in the present village also has many hundred year-old people, but at present this is in the village age biggest one. Has many people to come from far away visits old person, the light is several which specially comes from Japan. Really had not thought that we bumped into had found the treasure, ha-ha!
Visits old person to return to the Pama county already is the evening. Can the second day needs to go to Dongshan Town's Bugan village, indefinite come back, therefore we carry on the back the package to go to Bugan directly the village. Here vehicle is the small bread actually, 10 dollar, must put together six people, because is far away moreover the road to be also difficult to walk, is in the mountain, therefore comes this vehicle every day only then 12, Che Yao and so on filled has only then been possible to walk, otherwise did not go. Has the vehicle also to have the human today fortunately, sits boards 11:30 only then, we with the driver determined 2:00 pm time also will have the vehicle to go back. The driver good intention helped us to look for the place which very much here lived, if missed we to be possible to live for one evening in here. Lays down the thing, we in the future side the hillside morals Bugan village will walk, also about a kilometer.
The village is not big, is very attractive, many woven bamboo utensils house, outside attractive, but inside does not have a thing in the world, is very black, is very spatial, any thing puts on the same place. Here house one is red going against, the fallen more than 20 places, inlay in the level area in the mountains ao, red green interaction, interesting village. In the village also some very big rotunda, holiday time everybody gathers here to put on the most beautiful cloth vertical stroke precious clothes happy song joke, is assemble. What what a pity was coming in us couple days ago, here just joyfully celebrated has been wishing the festival, possessed Yao national minority's girls to joyfully celebrate in this, puts on the most grand magnificent upper and lower garments, television station's photography swarms, but this. But we did not know unexpectedly, has missed the best photography opportunity. Now puts on the Yao national minority clothing not to have. For the experience to the beautiful Yao national minority clothing, we found a pair of attractive elder sister and the younger male cousin had demonstrated for us their clothes, what was really very attractive. Although pairs person's clothes are the Tibet black, but on the girl front piece and the sleeve cuff has embroidered the color line, on the waist ties up Guangzhou which all colors bead puts on to add the red line, some round silver stick, long approximately 20 centimeters, one to two centimeter thickness, the both sides have the villain design. On the neck hangs the long colorful bead necklace and the big silver ring bring the bell to hang in the front, the beautiful head ornaments, the dark blue cloth wrapper, is enclosing each kind of color the floret to embellish the silver band, behind inserted many silver hairpins, flings Bai from left side De the belt safflower stripe belt Guangzhou's turban, the both sides are the bright red lines. Male was only on has entangled the heavy blue cloth, two vertical bank many red lines. So the US clothing adds on the good-looking beautiful woman, really raises the eye.
1:30 we are getting out when vehicles and so on place, 2-3 spots did not have the vehicle. Here person said that only could wait for tomorrow past 6:00 am vehicles. The nearby has a school, but has not attended class nobody. Only then inside has three girls to use the hand to break off the corn kernel, ground has overspread the corn which breaks off down, they entire sit in above, is very happy.
Dongshan Town is very small, anything has not been possible to look that 45 spots, the weather has been also dark, we bump into on the hillside break off the corn family of four, mother and three children, two girls, a boy, most greatly also 22 years old. Daddy had already passed away, now they must carry the basket, climbed down the hillside yumide to break off in one big piece has filled the basket, carried on the back again crawls uphill pours in the roadside. We downward are crawling with them, a twinkling, they disappear, I also in gradually look at the road with Tom, is stepping on under foot's stone, getting down cautiously. Waits for time which they come up, we with upward are crawling again, to us, this is the sheer precipice simply, but they less than ten year-old child carried the basket to come up all of a sudden. Really those who look at them is filled with emotion, what is really in the city children cannot with the countryside ratio, the countryside child not be able with the mountain in ratio!
Although lives this family is opens the restaurant, in the afternoon and so on vehicle's times, looks that others are eating the rice-flour noodle in this bowl, but we are really cannot eat, fortunately, we also have some grain, also casually has sent, I also bought two packages of pickled mustard tubers in the shop to gnaw. Evening what sleeps is a three room, but goes to bathroom wants on two, the restroom is linking the hill. In the room only then two very narrow small beds, have the mosquito net, but in room a flavor. Is good night hot, does not have the electric fan to operate the window no matter uses, but also has the mosquito. On the bed only then a mat, presses hurts, has no way to sleep, this good night is unendurable.
In July 18, six spots take a seat board, driver unexpectedly yesterday's that position. Returns to Pama, spent two-and-a-half hours to go by car arrives at Baise. Thought originally in Baise can see puts on local to many natives clothes, but did not think that Baise is a big city actually, our anything does not look. Thought suddenly has been tired, therefore we decided that went by car immediately Nanning, did not want to treat. Which root was my after mistakenly, convinced Tom to make the train unexpectedly to return to Nanning. Certainly a reason is the cheap half money, returns to Nanning's ticket well expensive, nearly 100 dollars. Bought the ticket to regret, must in the train station and so on more than three hours, really be bored to death, the waiting room hot must die, in the top of the head electric fan could not get up the function. Starts not to have any person, the successor are getting more and more, also hot is also noisy. And so on boarded, really pushes, three person's seats, really regret past mistakes! What is only good has bought 45 catty local blue awn nearby the station, only then one dollar one catty, sweet serious, was really too delicious. No wonder waits for vehicle's people are packed in a box is carrying.
the 17:50 vehicle, and so on returned to the Nanning 21 spots, was exposed to the sun the hotel only to remain two rooms, in staircase mouth, in two, before not, lived good, but did not have the means to come to be too late, has not selected, also sits train's result.
Our next station is the Inner Mongolian Huhhot. The ticket is 16 buys, because is the tourist season, therefore the ticket could not buy say nothing of the sleeping berth, and has not gone directly to Huhhot, must transfer to another vehicle in Shijiazhuang. Therefore we have to bought two 20 to sit the ticket from Nanning 9:10 to the Shijiazhuang second day 9:45, wanted an entire 24 hour also mostly hour, then changed vehicle again Huhhot. Has been connected including the above fortunately from Shijiazhuang to Huhhot's ticket 15:52 same day, although must in the station and so on 56 hours, we be very happy, what moreover this time buys finally is the sleeping berth.
In July 19, relaxed, only strolls Nanning, a big city, probably also does not have anything to be amusing. Asks the way but actually time bumps into one stupid male and a nerve maneating female, two people both are putting on the uniform, helps others, male did not know, the female manner talks back badly the malicious talk! Mental illness tigress mistakenly nerve!
No matter what, has bought east many in here Carefour east, made fully the preparation for the second day of journey.
In July 20, 9:00 am trains, lead us to leave for our journey last station----Inner Mongolia!!!!!
Is forgotten the millennium precious stronghold which by the human goes pale, beside is lively the Guangdong
In July 9, tossed about for two days, was good is catching up with six point last buses to go to Zhaoqing, to that side midnight 10:30. Looks for the hotel also to calculate smoothly, the condition is also good, is also cleanly comfortable also has the air conditioning only then 50rmb. On a street's restaurant is brilliantly illuminated, is really lively. We have selected the pickled cabbage fish which and the bean curd three vegetables have us to like eating, compares Macao to think suddenly has been too cheap, gives birth for the first time eats greatly, full, good satisfied.
Studies the Zhaoqing traveling, as soon as probably Seven Star Crag is worth going. The second day we took a seat the public transportation to go very early, more than a half hours, to that side had discovered unexpectedly were actually a park, the stone a little look like Guilin's that kind, the lake and mountain scenery complementing each other revolve, US was but actually very beautiful, suited the leisure to take vacation, but wanted with us the thing was not too same. Then, both of us have not gotten out, goes back the station directly. The time which the time also early, only then 7:30, immediately we bought eight point vehicles to have sealed the Lingnan first village which “Yang Chigu the village” come back on the way again goes to De Qing “the golden forest region of rivers and lakes”, although a little far, because the light was takes four hour driving distances from Zhaoqing to sealing, but we were supposing grasped the spot to be able to catch up with comes back.
Yang Chigu the village, is situated in the Fengkai County Luo Dong Zhen big level area in the mountains, we are the first station get out in midway Wang Cun, then waits for Che Daoluo the Dong town, gets out to be able to see road fork's Lingnan first village's large propaganda advertisement is standing erect in that. We also thought that as soon as inquired again, from this to the village in eight kilometers, this did not have Che Ke to go, the only way was attacks Morocco, has spent nine dollars. Admission ticket 20.
Yang Chigu the village peaks and ridges surround, the village acquires fame because of a willow pond. The entire villiage is the leaf surname clan, its ancestor because of evades the chaos caused by war, but lives in seclusion in this, had more than 380 years history. Has more than 60 preserved complete ancient rooms, the uniform bricks and stones wood construction, has the mural, the ash to model, the woodcarving. Here has had many officials, therefore some eaves assume the official headgear shape, is Wenhua Village which is renowned far and near. Here also leaves leeway the academy, the ancestral temple with the money shop. Nearby on the pond wall is being hanging some spatial baskets, it is said here villagers sell the vegetable time, so long as puts the vegetable to the basket, does not need the human to safeguard, so long as when the time comes came takeing the money to be good. In the village was fully laden with the fruit tree, in the village had the young spring, the full spring, the spirit bead spring, the amphoteric spring, it is said had the legendary color, the water puts out a hand to suffice, in the summer washed, was very comfortable.
The golden forest region of rivers and lakes, got out in the federal highway street intersection, to hit Morocco's past 20 Yuan, the admission ticket 30. The golden forest region of rivers and lakes it is said is in 2005 the Guangdong most beautiful village, this has crowded the tourist car. The village has suspended many sells the local product the booth, the big piece's tribute citrus reticulata forest, had just borne the fruitlet. A group walks is indeed very attractive, the assorted fruit tree, in the village child is also defending the booth, two dollar bunch of fruits, do not know are anything, is long looks like the fresh dried longan, but bares the skin, sour and sweet, inside has several granules, is very delicious, this also has in the Yang pond old town sees, but that side is also quite simple, here does not look like sells the thing many, but is the local product (has soaking polygonum multiflorum), therefore is also good. Several waterwheels, whish whish are transferring along the road. This has in more than 1700 year historical catwalk region of rivers and lakes others to have two rivers, the double dike, five big wells” and the pond, the village construction feeling is quite loose, in the village has many old people, some houses very broken, but also has is building a house, probably looks is not many, takes the most beautiful village we how many to think that a little regretted. Compares, although here Yang Chigu the village such juicy also has not had big, but looked that the construction likes Yang Chigu village some!
One hour later comes out, the day quick has been also black, also has not seen Morocco. We are standing on the street and so on passing vehicles, some taxi just returns to that side fortunately De Qing, therefore we only spent 20 to arrive at the De Qing station. Caught up with seven point bus services to return to Zhaoqing, but also has bought many litchi chinenses in the station nearby market. Here banana litchi chinensis too has been cheap, but is also fresh, is kind.
In July 11, is also gets up early the station to buy the ticket, because yesterday came back time the station has closed early, therefore this morning carried the package to come the station directly, who knew that 8:30 arrived at Qingyuan's ticket already not to have, we only could wait for 9:50 that then we must catch up with 12:00 Che Cong the Qingyuan to Liennan. No matter what, but also has been caught up with by us, to Liennan's time past 4:00.
Liennan is Guangdong's Yao national minority Autonomous County, it is said on the continuous hundred mile mountain high mountains, everywhere is the precious family stockaded village, therefore Liennan is known as “hundred mile Mt. Yao” the laudatory name. Comes here us is to look at the precious stronghold and the Yao national minority, but we indefinite can see anything, the Yao national minority is also putting on their traditional clothing. When we on Liennan's vehicle saw that is also putting on the Yao national minority clothing to an age quite big woman, on is gripping black cloth time, good excited, this explained that definitely also some people put on.
Inquires with the station person, knew that here quite famous has three row of precious strongholds and the millennium precious stronghold, had Che Daogang the stronghold to pass through three row of precious stronghold but millennium precious stronghold not to have the vehicle to go directly to, had several dozens kilometer far. But too has been today late, moreover that side does not have the lodging, that only could tomorrow be able. The nearby hotel are very many, is very quick the place which we hold on to give is calmly good.
On the street also does not have anything specially, all people put on are the same with us, is only occasionally can see that puts on the Yao national minority clothing to one two. At that time has not seen any nice restaurant, but here evening's big gear is good, was very prosperous, has eaten many, but Tom had diarrhea.
The second day early in the morning, nearby the station saw is putting on the beautiful clothes to several young women, we asked that they are that village, to this is far, in the village also puts on Yao national minority's clothing, they very warm, but listens not too to understand their words, but we may know that their that indeed also puts on.
We have been called a loose roadster, 10 miles, reach an agreement 12 dollars to three row of precious strongholds. This lets us be pleasantly surprised all the way, nearby street's several villages which passed by is also putting on their precious clothing, especially saw that to a middle-aged male on plate pack of scarlet cloth, red, high, the good bright eye, came back time we must certainly stroll well in this.
Three row of precious strongholds, are very disappointed. Inside actually has not entered, but when we with the ticket seller inquired inside what time, that person of anything did not say, performance a little retarded appearance. Here is a mountain completely, we also does not look at anything in the entrance, feeling also nobody. As soon as therefore we plan or go to the millennium precious stronghold to look. Makes contact with Che Daogang the stronghold, has looked for a bread again, 30 Yuan go to the millennium precious stronghold.
The millennium precious stronghold is honored as “the Chinese Yao national minority first stronghold”, is situated on the elevation more than 600 meters mountains, all around the group peak repeat screen-like mountain peaks, is the present national scale is biggest, is most ancient, the most characterful precious stronghold. A row of neat classical architecture common people residence is suitable the appearance of the mountain to arrange scattered and organized on half hillside, the same blue brick builds a wall, the black tile coping, is extremely magnificent. Has traveling breeding as soon as in here fresh to look at the scenery Taiwan to look at the precious stronghold scenery. Was only a pity that this has more than 1400 year historical ancient strongholds, has the prosperous time more than 700 common people residences, more than 1000 household, more than 7000 people to the present less than 200 person and 368 Ming and Qing Dynasties time ancient dwelling. Saw in here us mostly is 70-80 year-old person, alone is living. Because the transportation is not convenient, harvests the crops transportation in the mountain and so on is the question, therefore young basically moved descends the mountain. Looks that this flickering stronghold gate, the stronghold wall, are treading the long stone plank road, under the light rain lightly, is feeling the millennium precious stronghold historical vicissitudes.
We come, just had the dance to perform ends, group of tourists were having not given full expression pat are illuminating. Although has missed the performance, but this long ancient stronghold lets us immerse the sigh sufficiently. Searches the ancient road, the front surface is walking 60-70 year-old Sir, is carrying on the shoulder under the hoe, also puts on their usual clothes, on is wearing a white turban. When we indicated wants to photograph, is very beyond expectation, he lets us wait, he wants to go back trades clothes. Like this we are arriving at his main house gate mouth with him, and so on uncles appear once more at our at present time, the upper body lower part of the body dresses neatly, particularly on has produced the scarlet cloth layer upon layer, is very grand. Has the faction station to let us very much in there pat. Afterward we only then understood, is left over these old people only work depending on under plant some grain to earn a living, is very impoverished, but wards off since here after the tourist scenic zone, many people request the photograph, therefore also had has provided the photograph some meagre incomes. Afterward we in yumide in patted the light upper arm, put on one only to arrive at on the knee the broken pants, a waist hitch red turban, on same plate red kerchief's other old person, this quick 80, black thin black thin had a skin, did not have a meat. He leads us to his room, to us looked that other people also made two photographs to him, old person have put out the tobacco pipe which his various types' long bamboo node made, long careful. Old person selected had the smoke, carried on the back his Yao national minority package. In the room a nice thing does not have, except has several pots, is really good broken good broken, anything does not have, in the room is dark. Afterward we also bump into an old woman, the similarly that big age, sits on the threshold, thin, the eye is very big, puts on equally very broken, does not stop is coughing. Sees our time, although uncomfortable, but static sitting lets us in that photograph, gave back to us to carry the bowl liquor to invite us to drink, this probably locality entertained a guest custom. Looks that a their person, really sighs with regret, millennium precious stronghold millennium soul!
Presently lives in the village in a mountainous area precious people, mainly has Deng, Tang, the plate, the room four clans. They when the Ming Dynasty has established the democratic election “the precious old system”, manages the precious stronghold. Unexpectedly, has bumped into the last precious king's granddaughter unexpectedly in here us. Precious king's house same simple empty. Granddaughter's mother is sitting in the entrance smallest bits of property is embroidering the precious package, it is said makes such package to take 2-3 months to be able to complete. The granddaughter and her older female cousin is playing together, also bumps into the two brothers in side on us, they are 78 years old, 22 year-old appearance, simple is putting on Yao national minority's clothing, even if is the little girl is also with the boy same black cloth clothes, not colorful, only what is the girl waist hitch is the white turban, the boy is the red turban. The young boy little girls are very warm, invite the corn which we eat them to roast. Every day they must walk two hours to descend the mountain go to school, daily two hour walk home. The little girl said that is used to it has not been also tired. We have made some their photograph, complies to send to them. Hopes joyfully!
The beautiful precious stronghold, not far away green hill is continuous, under the continuous drizzle, follows in the picture to be the same, water ink inexhaustible!
Comes out from the millennium precious stronghold, just bumps into Che Yao to go to Liennan, we asked the price, takes 60 dollars unexpectedly with us, does not reduce prices, we only then do not want. Although before we have, that driver's telephone, but we decide to take a stroll, makes the vehicle again to the hillock stronghold. Such downward has walked from the mountain, good far good far, is the green hill all the way, is very similar with Guilin's landform. On the road also occasionally has small village, walked quick one hour almost to arrive at the hillock stronghold, from mountain down a van, as soon as inquired, only then a 6 dollar person arrived at Liennan, our feeling pleased boarding, good cheap. Before looking like both of us, does not know the quotation, owed. When before we pass through that two village time, both of us got out, because also has section of distances to Liennan, therefore the driver has only then wanted 10 dollars.
Here village, although can see many people put on the Yao national minority clothes, but here already had the modern village breath. Everybody chats is playing the card. We saw their pocket good attractive, takes 100 dollar one, wants to buy, but because of them is not willing 150 dollars for us two, therefore has not bought, afterward regretted well! Again also will not have later perhaps the opportunity!
In the farmland the high rice, was looking steadily the Yao national minority women put on the precious clothing to hit the agricultural chemicals in the place, the character and style.
A group takes a stroll is returning to Liennan, on the road bumps into sells the watermelon, two dollar, not too big nor too small, is very sweet. Nearby the street on had a specially wide Ba River, the roadside has rested many motorcycles, in the water is the swimming playing with water person, adult the child, was the whole family got off work the belt child to come. The day indeed is too hot, Tom also pressed nai does not live, enjoys oneself to the full launches. I on am staying in the side, looks at the thing. Looks at present, thinks that the precious stronghold felt is just likes separates the world!
Today harvests quite abundant, evening we also had found a good restaurant, the fragrant fish and the vegetables rice, good whets the appetite!
Under tomorrow as soon as must start to stand----Guangxi Province!
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，坐落在海拔600多米的高山上，四周群峰迭嶂，是目前全国规模最大、最古老、最具特色的瑶寨。一排排整齐的古典建筑民居顺着山势错落有致地排列在半山坡上，一律青砖砌墙，黑瓦盖顶，极为壮观。在这里有旅游孕育而生的观景台一览瑶寨风光。只可惜这座拥有一千四百多年历史的古寨，有鼎盛时期的700多幢民居、1000多户、7000多人到现在的不到200余人和368幢明清时期的古宅。在这里我们看到的大多是七八十岁的老人，独自居住着。由于交通的不方便，在山里收割农作物运输等等都是问题，所以年轻的基本上都已搬下山。看着这一幢幢寨门、寨墙、踏着悠悠的石板道，在淅淅沥沥的小雨之下，感受着千年瑶寨的历史沧桑。
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