After a day of traversing the endless Mongolian steppe, we arrived at a site steeped in history and legend: the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan. The legendary conqueror (born in 1162, died in 1227), who united nomadic tribes to form the …
Inner Mongolia, Xiangshawan, Resonant Dune Bay
“Xiangshawan, often referred to as the Resonant Dune Bay, is a mesmerizing expanse of sand located in the Kubuqi Desert of Inner Mongolia. This extraordinary desert oasis offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.” That’s the …
Inner Mongolia, Huitengxile & Ulan Hada Volcano
We had been dreaming of the vast Mongolian steppe for years, and Huitengxile was the perfect place to make that dream a reality. It was like stepping into a postcard – endless rolling hills, a sky so blue it seemed …
Yungang Caves, China
The Yungang Grottoes stand as a monumental testament to the artistic and religious fervor of the Northern Wei Dynasty. Carved into sandstone cliffs over a century, from the mid-5th to the early 6th centuries AD, these grottoes are a treasure …
Hanging Monastery, China
The Hanging Monastery, or Xuankong Si, is a truly extraordinary sight. Perched precariously on a sheer cliff face, this ancient temple seems to defy gravity. Its location, around 75 meters above the ground, is both breathtaking and bewildering. Built over …
Datong, China
Datong, a city in Shanxi Province, is a captivating blend of ancient and modern. It’s a place where the lines between old and new become blurred, creating a unique and fascinating atmosphere. But if you take a closer look, things …
Hohhot, Inner Mongolia
Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, offers a fascinating contrast between ancient history and modern urban life. This vibrant city is a gateway to the vast steppes and deserts of the region, but it also boasts a rich cultural heritage. …
Pingyao – Ancient Town, China
Pingyao transported us back to a bygone era. This exquisitely preserved walled city is a living testament to China’s rich history. In China they are putting a sign on historic buildings, meaning that it’s really an authentic building. In the …
The Great Wall of China
There’s a certain magic to escaping the crowds. And nowhere is this more true than on the Great Wall of China. While Badaling basks in the spotlight, we sought solitude on the less-traveled Jinshanling section. Imagine walking along one of …
Beijing
After living & travelling nearly a year in Asia, we went to re-visit Beijing, last time we visited was nearly 20 years ago in 2006. Beijing has changed. The city is busy & thriving, but nearly all cars, scooters & …