Latest news with #LanternFestival
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Inside world's narrowest city home to 450,000 people who can shake hands across street – but ‘sit on edge of disaster'
Homes, shops and public buildings are all stacked on top of each other in this unique city TIGHT MOVE Inside world's narrowest city home to 450,000 people who can shake hands across street – but 'sit on edge of disaster' THE WORLD'S narrowest city has alleyways just big enough for two people to squeeze past each other, with residents having to use bikes as the roads are too small for cars. Wedged between soaring cliff faces, Yanjin, which is located in China's Yunnan province, is just 100 feet wide in many places. 3 Yanjin is the "worlds narrowest city" Credit: Alamy 3 Houses are on stilts to protect against flooding Credit: Alamy 3 In many places, the city is no more than 100 feet wide Credit: Alamy The eight-mile-long city, which is divided by the Nanxi River is home to around 400,000 residents. As it is wedged between the cliffs and the river, inhabitants of the unique location have had to build upwards instead of outwards. This means that homes, shops and schools are all stacked on top of each other. In some areas, streets are so thin that people on opposite sides of the roads can hold hands. Read more world stories SKY'S THE LIMIT Inside Europe's highest capital city with no airports or train stations Thin bridges connect the parts of the city on both sides of the river, with houses clinging to the edge of cliff faces. As the streets are too narrow for cars, city dwellers have to use bikes or travel on foot. And the city's proximity to the river means that buildings have had to be built on tall pillars, to protect against flooding. In the rainy season, the banks of the river can swell dangerously, whilst the steep cliffs are prone to landslides, which can cause damage to the city below. Although you likely have not heard of this unusual city, it has an interesting history. Yanjin was known as the "Gateway to Sichuan and Yunnan" in ancient times and once had a key stronghold on the ancient Southern Silk Road. Inside Europe's highest capital city with no airports or train stations - but welcomes EIGHT MILLION tourists a year Many residents in the ancient city now rely on fishing and agriculture to make a living, whilst many own small businesses. As the city is too small to farm livestock in, many city folk own plots of land in the nearby area. The city is in a very remote part of China, making it extremely tricky to get to. The Chongqing-Kunming runs close to the city, so it is fairly convenient to access Yanjin by car. However, if you don't have access to a car, you will have to get a bullet train to Kunming, the provincial capital, from Shanghai, Beijing, or Hong Kong, and then take a six hour bus to Kunming. Yanjin is home to a number of local festivals such as the Lantern Festival and Dragon Boat Festival, during which the tiny streets are lit up and flooded with excited revellers. "It's truly mind-blowing to see how Yanjin has adapted to its natural environment, with its residents making the most of every inch of space available," said Drew Binsky, a YouTuber who has visited all 195 countries. "The towering mountains in every direction make it feel as though the city is trapped in a stunning, yet challenging, landscape. "In all of my travels, I've never seen anything like this!"
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- The Irish Sun
Inside world's narrowest city home to 450,000 people who can shake hands across street – but ‘sit on edge of disaster'
THE WORLD'S narrowest city has alleyways just big enough for two people to squeeze past each other, with residents having to use bikes as the roads are too small for cars. Wedged between soaring cliff faces, Yanjin, which is located in China's Yunnan province, is just 100 feet wide in many places. 3 Yanjin is the "worlds narrowest city" Credit: Alamy 3 Houses are on stilts to protect against flooding Credit: Alamy 3 In many places, the city is no more than 100 feet wide Credit: Alamy The eight-mile-long city, which is divided by the Nanxi River is home to around 400,000 residents. As it is wedged between the cliffs and the river, inhabitants of the unique location have had to build upwards instead of outwards. This means that homes, shops and schools are all stacked on top of each other. In some areas, streets are so thin that people on opposite sides of the roads can hold hands. Read more world stories Thin bridges connect the parts of the city on both sides of the river, with houses clinging to the edge of cliff faces. As the streets are too narrow for cars, city dwellers have to use bikes or travel on foot. And the city's proximity to the river means that buildings have had to be built on tall pillars, to protect against flooding. In the rainy season, the banks of the river can swell dangerously, whilst the steep cliffs are prone to landslides, which can cause damage to the city below. Most read in The Sun Although you likely have not heard of this unusual city, it has an interesting history . Yanjin was known as the "Gateway to Sichuan and Yunnan" in ancient times and once had a key stronghold on the ancient Southern Silk Road. Inside Europe's highest capital city with no airports or train stations - but welcomes EIGHT MILLION tourists a year Many residents in the ancient city now rely on fishing and agriculture to make a living, whilst many own small businesses. As the city is too small to farm livestock in, many city folk own plots of land in the nearby area. The city is in a very remote part of China, making it extremely tricky to get to. The Chongqing-Kunming runs close to the city, so it is fairly convenient to access Yanjin by car. However, if you don't have access to a car, you will have to get a bullet train to Kunming, the provincial capital, from Shanghai, Beijing, or Hong Kong, and then take a six hour bus to Kunming. Yanjin is home to a number of local festivals such as the Lantern Festival and Dragon Boat Festival, during which the tiny streets are lit up and flooded with excited revellers. "It's truly mind-blowing to see how Yanjin has adapted to its natural environment, with its residents making the most of every inch of space available," said Drew Binsky, a . "The towering mountains in every direction make it feel as though the city is trapped in a stunning, yet challenging, landscape. " In all of my travels, I've never seen anything like this!"
Khaleej Times
17-04-2025
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
Legend Holding Group strengthens UAE-China relations
As part of its grand global headquarters opening, Legend Holding Group reaffirming its vital role in the deepening relationship between the United Arab Emirates and the People's Republic of China. The event brought together key dignitaries, including Ou Boqian, Consul General of China in Dubai, Abdulla Al Saleh, Undersecretary, UAE Ministry of Economy, government officials and partners from across sectors, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable growth and collaboration. In her keynote, Ou Boqian emphasized the importance of Chinese enterprises like Legend in the UAE's economic fabric: 'Legend Holding Group started from a small company, and now operates in over 10 countries, covering 56 regions, with more than 500 employees and more than Dh1.5 billion in output for 2024. China has remained the UAE's largest trading partner for 11 consecutive years, and companies like Legend are pivotal in this enduring success.' She also praised Legend for fostering not only economic but also cultural and social exchange, citing its active participation in events such as the Dubai Forum, the New Energy Vehicle Parade, and Lantern Festival celebrations, as well as charitable Ramadan donations. Al Saleh praised Legend Holding Group as a model enterprise reflecting the UAE's strategic economic vision. 'Legend stands as a shining example of our partnership with China, through its investments in infrastructure, it supports our national priorities, including the UAE Net Zero 2050 initiative.' With Dubai as a strategic hub, Legend is a prime example of a successful Chinese company, founded in the UAE and rising to become a regional leader. Founder and Chairman Kai Zheng said: 'We're not just growing, we are laying the foundation for the future. From EVs and smart mobility to technology, digital solutions and other sectors, we're building ecosystems, fostering a long term commitment for our customers and partners.' Kai emphasized a belief in cross-industry connectivity and sustainable innovation as drivers of long-term value. 75% of all vehicles sold in 2024 by Legend were electric, a testament to the group's alignment with the UAE's environmental goals and its leadership in smart mobility. Legend's diversified businesses span across automotive, green energy, tourism, smart technology, and media with ambition to create interconnected ecosystems that drive economic and social progress in line with 2050 vision. Kai Zheng concluded: 'As we look ahead, Legend Holding Group is not just preparing for the future, we are actively creating it. Rooted in a strong foundation of trust, innovation, and shared values, our path forward is defined by bold ambition and unwavering purpose. Our Vision is to become a global leader in building interconnected ecosystems that be a key element in evolving industries. Our focus is clear: to harness the power of technology, data, and artificial intelligence to unlock smarter solutions, enhance the customer experience, and drive sustainable progress'. He continued, guided by a people-first philosophy, we will continue to invest in talent and diversity, ensuring our teams are equipped to navigate and lead in a rapidly evolving world. Through digital transformation, sustainable innovation, and meaningful collaboration, Legend will remain at the forefront of shaping industries and enriching lives. Together, with our partners, our teams, and our communities, we will not only grow; we will lead with purpose, innovate with responsibility, and shape a future where progress creates value for all.
Zawya
25-03-2025
- Zawya
South Africa: Chinese Traditional Culture Presented in Pretoria Market
On 22 February 2025, the Chinese Embassy in South Africa held a Lantern Festival themed activity at the famous Boeremark in Pretoria to promote traditional Chinese culture. Minister Li Zhigang attended the event. A number of exhibition areas were set up on the spot. Locals were invited to taste tangyuan, the traditional Chinese delicacy. They received Chinese culture themed books and souvenirs, watched Chinese martial arts and dance performances, and learned about the origin and customs of the Lantern Festival, as well as the 24 solar terms and 12 zodiac signs. Traditional Chinese culture was presented in a graphic, vivid way. The game of pitch-pot was played and the 12 zodiac seals were presented to attract more people to participate and feel the charm of Chinese culture. Chinese culture is profound and has a long history. This event allowed the local people to appreciate the profound Chinese culture in a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere, and to enjoy the festivity while savouring the delicious food. It not only showed the unique charm of traditional Chinese culture, but also built a bridge of communication and understanding for people of different cultural backgrounds. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of South Africa.
Associated Press
21-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
2025 Taiwan Miaoli Dragon Bombing Concludes Successfully—Passing the Torch to Keep Dragon Culture Alive
02/21/2025, Taipei City, Taiwan // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // One of Taiwan's four major Lantern Festival celebrations, the Miaoli Dragon Bombing concluded amidst the exhilarating roar of firecrackers. This year's event, themed 'Powerful Strikes', brought together 30 auspicious dragons and attracted international dragon teams from Malaysia, Wuhan, and Guangdong, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of dragon dance artistry and the Dragon Bombing ritual. Through this grand celebration, the world witnessed the unique charm of Hakka dragon culture. The Miaoli Dragon Bombing inherits the traditional beliefs and seasonal rituals of the Hakka people. Since its promotion by the Miaoli City Office in 1998, it has become the foremost festival among the Twelve Major Hakka Celebrations and is recognized as one of Taiwan's Four Grand Lantern Festival Events, alongside Sky Lanterns in the North, Dragon Bombing in the Center, Beehive Fireworks in the South, and the Han Dan in the East. The Dragon Bombing event follows a seven-step ritual: Dragon Making, Walking with the Dragon, Dragon Eye Dotting, Welcoming the Dragon, Following the Dragon, Dragon Bombing, Burning the Dragon to Return to the Heaven. Each step carries profound meanings of blessing, warding off evil, and fostering community unity. This year's Dragon Bombing Carnival and Night of the Dragon Bombing featured performances by local dragon teams, as well as international teams, including the Wuhan Gaolong Team, the Guangdong Kite Association's luminous dragon kite performance, and Malaysia Yahya Awal Dragon Dance Troupe Dragon Dance Team from Malaysia. The luminous dragon kite soars through the sky, complementing the auspicious dragon leaping amid the baptism of firecrackers on the ground, creating a stunning visual spectacle of 'Dragons in the sky, Bombing Dragons on the ground.' Meanwhile, the competitive dragon dance event allows young performers to blend innovative techniques with traditional dragon dance artistry, showcasing the passion and energy of the new generation. Magistrate of Miaoli County Chung Tung-Chin stated, 'Dragon Bombing is not just a cultural celebration but also a legacy of spirit. Through this event, we embed Hakka traditions deeply into the younger generation while showcasing Miaoli's unique charm to the world.' Miaoli City Mayor Yu Wen-Chung emphasized, 'This year, for the first time, the event welcomes exchange student dragon teams and new immigrant dragon teams while enhancing parent-child interactions. This symbolizes the continued growth and global expansion of the Dragon Bombing culture, attracting people from diverse backgrounds to participate together.' The final 'Ascension of the Dragon' ritual symbolizes the auspicious dragon completing its mission of blessing the community and returning to the celestial realm, bringing peace and prosperity for the coming year. Many dragon team members find it hard to part, vowing to reunite next year and continue this unique Hakka tradition, passing it down from generation to generation. 'Miaoli Dragon Bombing' is not only a significant symbol of Hakka village culture but also a highlight of Taiwan's folk traditions on the international stage. By combining dragon dance artistry, competitive spirit, and folk beliefs, Miaoli Dragon Bombing showcases traditional culture in the most exhilarating way, allowing it to continuously thrive and evolve with each powerful explosion.
