Luzhi Watertown: The Authentic Water Town near Suzhou

Suzhou and its surroundings are well-known for the picturesque water towns of this region. Names like Zhouzhuang or Tongli usually come to mind immediately. These places are beautiful, no question, but you often share the quaint alleys with thousands of other tourists. However, during my travels, I found a place by lucky chance that captured … Read more

Suzhou and Its History: An Overview for Travelers

Collection of the most important milestones of the history of Suzhou.

Suzhou is a popular travel destination in China and happens to be one of my absolute favorites. But there is so much more behind those picturesque canals and gardens than just a pretty backdrop. The city of Suzhou looks back on a vibrant history spanning over 2,500 years. In this article on the history of … Read more

The Mogao Caves in Dunhuang: A Forgotten Jewel of the Silk Road

The Mogao Caves (莫高窟, Mògāokū) in Dunhuang left a deep impression on me. This site is the result of a thousand-year history, yet it hardly appears on the tourist map of many individual travelers. In few other places can you experience the history and significance of the Silk Road as directly as here. Today, I … Read more

China’s Dynasties – Your Compact Overview

Have you ever asked yourself while planning your trip to China: “Who was this Ming guy anyway, and why does everyone have his vases?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In Europe, we often think in centuries, but in China, people think in dynasties. They are the Chinese equivalent to eras like the Baroque, the Middle … Read more