Helen Wang's blog

If you’re planning a trip to China, Yunnan should be on top of you travel list. Located in the southwest corner of China, Yunnan is packed with stunning landscapes, colorful cultures, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the snow-capped peaks of Shangri-La in the north to the rice terraces of Yuanyang in the south and the steaming […]

The Song Dynasty was one of China’s most remarkable golden ages. They ruled from 960 until 1279 CE and all this period is a time when art flourished, cities expanded, and innovations quietly changed the course of history. There are not so many visible sites like warriors of the Tang Dynasty or the grandeur of […]

If you’re into stories of ancient empires in China and everyday life way back when, the Han Dynasty is one of China’s most fascinating chapters. The Han Dynasty lasted for over 400 years (around 206 BC to 220 AD), and during that time, China wasn’t just growing- it was thriving. That was a time when […]

China has one of the world’s oldest and most complex civilizations, rich with customs, beliefs, and traditions that have shaped not only East Asia but global history. I know that many are familiar with famous aspects like the Great Wall, kung fu, or dumplings, but Chinese culture holds countless deeper layers that often go unnoticed […]

China has so many UNESCO listings that can bring you back in time. In numbers, China has 59 sites that are UNESCO recognized, of these 40 are listed for cultural reasons, 15 for their natural and 4 for both cultural and natural significance.  So, if you had a dream to step back in time and […]

I wonder how do you imagine the Ancient Silk Road? Do you also picture a brave travelers charting courses through vast, untamed territories, a places far removed from the usual tourist trail? In today’s post, I want to shine a light on those hidden stretches that most guides never mention. I want to introduce to […]

When someone mentions Chengdu, what’s the first thing that you think of? I’m guessing it’s pandas lounging around lazily or steaming pots of spicy Sichuan hot pot. Yes, those are some of the things that are recognizable for Chengdu and Sichuan Province.  If you are planning to go to Sichuan Province in China and you […]

Ancient towns in China are like time machines tucked between mountains and rivers. Wandering through their stone-paved alleys and wooden houses feels like stepping into a living history book. I have visited almost all of them, and here I made a list of the most charming and truly worth visiting, so you can choose which […]

China is home to many ancient villages that will take your breath away. But ancient villages in Yunnan province are seems as untouched by time. Yunnan ancient villages offer a rich tapestry of history, culture, and traditional architecture. Because of the geography in the southwestern corner of China, Yunnan Province is a land of breathtaking […]

Chopsticks have been part of Chinese culture for thousands of years, reflecting the country’s rich traditions, deep respect for etiquette, and refined table manners. It is essential to know basic chopsticks etiquette when you travel to China. Mistakes with chopsticks can come across as rude or disrespectful, while using them correctly shows appreciation for local […]