Dr. Mark Nan Tu

The Internet caf

No doubt that Cambodia is a poor country. After years of war and the four tragic years under the Khmer Rouge, Pol Pot

Traveling in SE Asia, I was constantly felt helpless when the service people who do not speak much English. I booked a trip from Ko Chang Island, Thailand to Siem Reap Cambodia at 11pm, last night. I was supposed to be picked up by a bus at 700

Traveling alone can be fun at times when you meet interesting people.

I was sitting in a bar at Siam Reap, Cambodian watching a documentary of Angkor Wat, drinking a coke and eating my fish fillet. A man in his 60s walked in and sit across me. He was white and had a cow-boy hat on and looked well-fed and prospers.

I am sitting in an internet cafe at the Ko Chang island, Thailan. The cafe owner greeted me: Ko Ni Chi Wa. (Japanese equivlant of Hello).

The red leaves draw a lot of visitors

There are many people inside the park

The “greatwall” of the Frangrance Hill

The spetacular view from the top

The Ming Tombs is a world culture heritage site

The red gate

The carved animals along the Sacred Path

Nestled in the serene valley south of Tianshou Mountain (Longevity of Heaven) in Changping County, and roughly 50 kilometers northwest of Beijing, the Ming Tombs serve as the final resting place for 13 of the 16 Ming Dynasty emperors. This historical site is not just a testament to the dynasty’s rich history but also a fascinating journey back in time for any visitor.

The journey into this majestic past begins with the striking sight of a five-arched white marble memorial archway. This elegant structure leads to the Great Red Gate, the official starting point of the 7-kilometer-long Sacred Path (Shendao). This path, a direct route to the Changling tomb of Emperor Yongle (who reigned from 1403-1424), is lined with profound historical and cultural symbols.

As one progresses along the Sacred Path, they encounter a distinctive square stela pavilion, marked by its four towering white stone ornamental columns (huabiao) at each corner. This pavilion, standing proudly at the heart of the Sacred Way, guards a massive stone tortoise, leading the way to the renowned Avenue of the Animals. Here, visitors are greeted by pairs of stone lions, elephants, camels, horses, and various mythological creatures, totaling 24 stone beasts. These figures are not merely decorative; they serve as guardians of the path, leading to the emperors’ final resting places.

Following this impressive lineup of stone animals, a group of 12 stone human figures emerges, representing the funeral procession of the deceased emperors. Carved in 1540, these figures include military, civil, and meritorious officials, each telling a story of the empire’s glory and governance. Beyond these solemn figures lies the Dragon and Phoenix Gate (Longfengmen), distinguished by its three archways, marking a symbolic entrance to the afterlife.

Mirroring the “Sacred Path” found in Nanjing, the Sacred Path at the Ming Tombs is flanked by pairs of stone animals, a design choice that underscores the Ming Dynasty’s reverence for tradition and the symbolic journey of the soul from the earthly realm to the eternal.

This historical site, with its blend of architectural marvels and symbolic elements, offers a profound glimpse into China’s imperial past, making it an essential visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The ancient pagodas

Nestled amidst the undulating terrain that skirts the outskirts of Beijing, the Silver Mountain Pagoda stands as a testament to the seamless blend of natural beauty and historical grandeur. This hiking haven is not just a journey through trails but an immersive experience into China’s rich tapestry of history and nature. The Silver Mountain Pagoda, situated in close proximity to the enigmatic Ming tombs, offers adventurers an opportunity to explore some of the less frequented tombs of the Ming Dynasty on their return to the bustling life of Beijing city.

The Yin Shan Mountain, home to the Silver Mountain Pagoda, boasts a collection of 18 pagodas that are not only architectural marvels but also sacred sites of Buddhism. These pagodas, ensconced between towers of dense pine forests planted during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, narrate stories of devotion and artistry spanning four dynasties – Jin (1123-35), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644), and Qing (1644-1911). The area is also peppered with numerous caves, adding a layer of mystery and exploration for the intrepid traveler.

Ascending to the summit of the mountain, which stands at 720 meters above sea level, is a journey made accessible by well-laid stone steps and clearly marked signs. These paths do more than guide; they invite visitors to traverse through ruins and historical sites, making the hike an enlightening experience. The ascent, taking roughly an hour, culminates in a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley below, with the pagodas majestically dotting the landscape at the foot of the hill.

For those seeking an escape that offers both a physical challenge and a cultural enrichment, the Silver Mountain Pagoda near Beijing is an unparalleled choice. It’s a place where the past and present, nature and architecture, converge to create a truly unforgettable experience.

The trails are well marked

View from the top