Tuesday



Dunhuang- The Silk Road



A unique place of interest- DUNHUANG is a perfect place with beautiful landscapes. This historical city is now a renowned tourist city the Mogao Caves.
It is situated in the common boundary of Gansu Province, Qinghai Province and Xinjiang Province. Dunhuang, long ago referred to as 'Sha Zhou' (beautiful desert oasis), was the hub of middle and eastern silk routes in ancient times. The city landmark is an attractive statue, the idea of which comes from the mural in Mogao Caves, a shrine to the culture and arts of Dunhuang. From Mt.Qilian in the south, Mt. Mazong in the north and desert from east to west, the landform of Dunhuang City is a declining basin-plain from west to northeast, high in the north and south, and low in the middle. The western cities of China, especially those in the desert, are known for their sandstorms, so tourists should protect themselves with glasses, hats and gauze kerchiefs, etc.

In ancient times, Dunhuang was the centre of trade between China and its western neighbours. At that time, it was the most westerly frontier military garrison in China. With the flourishing of trade along the Silk Road, Dunhuang was prompted to become the most open area in international trade in Chinese history. It provided the only access westward for the Chinese Empire and eastward for western nationalities. Today, as a reminder of this historical area, the Mogao Caves is left, Yangguan Pass, Yumenguan Pass and many wonderful Chinese poems depicting the time. Although what remains of the two Passes are crumbling walls, one can still experience the atmosphere of that time while visiting in person.

Its splendid stone caves, tourism has become an indispensable industry to Dunhuang City. Surrounding establishments include various classes of hotels and restaurants for you’re choosing. As well, tourism personnel are knowledgeable and well trained these days. For a western city in China, it has become more accessible for people to come and go as they please. Transportation is much more efficient, ensuring that your wonderful trip runs smoothly. May to September is the best time to visit, so be sure to plan your trip during these months. Including Dunhuang City in your tour is a decision you won't regret!
Dunhuang City, an obvious pearl on the Silk Road, opens her arms to welcome tourists from all over the world. This is a place you will definitely enjoy your stay!


"I would rather die going to the west than live by staying in the east."
9:39 PM


PROFILE

I amXUAN ZANG!
Chinese Name: 玄奘
Pin Yin: Xuán Zàng
BACKGROUND:
Chinese Buddhist monk, scholar, traveler and translator that brought up the interaction between China and India in the early Tang period.
Birth place & period: born near Luoyang, Henan in 1602


GOALS

A seventeen year trip to India,
to study with many famous Buddhist masters,
especially at the famous center of Buddhist learning at Nālanda University.

COMMENT



SOURCES

Dunhuang
Journey to the West
Laputan Logic
Pictures of Xuan Zang
The Mongols
The Silk Road
Wikepedia-The Silk Road
Wikepedia-Xuan Zang


MY PICTURE COLLAGE

Pictures of my Journey
DESIGNER

UNRIVEN: X X
Brushes: 1
Image:X
Blogskins.com


ARCHIVES

July 2007
August 2007
MUSIC