1 . Xi’an, as the longest-running capital in ancient China, has shaped the country’s culture and history. With a history of over 3, 000 years, it has given birth to many dynasties. If planning a short tour, be sure to visit the recommended attractions that truly capture the spirit of this ancient city.

The Terracotta Army is a remarkable archaeological find and a popular tourist destinationin China. Constructed by Emperor Qinshihuang in the 3rd century BC, it features life-size terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots arranged in battle formation. The museum houses three vaults (墓穴) and an exhibition hall, with Vault One being the largest, displaying over 6, 000 figures. These sculptures offer insights of high value into ancient China’s history, military, and culture.

Xi’an City Wall was built in the 14th century by Zhu Yuanzhang, the first Emperor of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) as a military defense system. Now it is one of the oldest and best-preserved Chinese city walls. The wall is now a landmark, dividing the city into inner and outer areas. When you take a stroll or cycle on the massive wall, you can enjoy a good view of the city, the moat (护城河) and the watchtowers.

The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in China was built during the Tang Dynasty as a study place for Buddhist texts. It stored sutras (佛经) and sculptures brought from India by monk Xuan Zang, who translated scriptures here for 19 years. Situated in Da Ci’en Temple, the pagoda’s impressive brick structure reflects traditional Chinese architecture, creating a solemn and magnificent atmosphere.

The Shaanxi History Museum displays 370, 000 relics found in Shaanxi, China, including bronze wares (青铜器), pottery figures, gold and silverwares, and Tang Dynasty murals. 18 pieces are national treasures. Xi’an, the former capital, has many historical sites. The museum is divided into three sections, exhibiting artifacts from primitive eras to the late Qing Dynasty.

The arched timber lounge bridges (木拱廊桥) built in China nearly 1,000 years ago, still     1    (stand) and still in everyday use, show the true skill of the master craftsmen who first constructed them. The amazing bridges,     2     (suspend) between two banks of rich greenery and built from the wood of the trees surrounding them, are still a     3     (full) functional part of life in Fujian Province and Zhejiang Province.

Of the 100 arched timber lounge bridges in China, the Qianshen Bridge in Shouning County, Fujian Province, which is an impressive 62.7 metres long and 4.9 metres wide,     4     (rebuild) several times since it was built first. Now,    5     remains an iconic image of ancient Chinese construction methods.

The bridges are built completely     6     hand. The woodworking     7     (master) design the bridges with     8     range of arches depending on the surroundings, while the passageways can be various styles, depending on the use of the bridge.

To create arch support, “beam-weaving (织梁)” is used in which three rows of wood formed an arch- supporting system while in the upper layer five shorter rows of wood     9     (joint) and intertwined with upper-arch supports. Wood     10     then connects the whole bridge is placed at the joints between the ends so the bridge becomes a solid whole. Traditional tools such as Lu Ban rulers, sawhorses, axes and chisels are used in the construction of the bridge.

4 . I’ve reached the turn-around point of the day’s kayaking (皮划艇) trip. Sweat runs down my cheek as I ______ my fingers through the cool water. I look around. It’s just me, a couple of seagulls, and shining freshwater to the horizon. This, I whisper to myself, is ______.

Solo outings had never ______ my mind before because I always had loyal friends willing to tag along. But three years ago, I moved to Cleveland. Meeting close friends in a new city is ______. And a world wide health crisis made ______ impossible.

In October 2022, I decided to ______ a whole day on a solo hiking trip. I went to Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) to ______ the autumn leaves. Five miles in, I couldn’t remember the last time I’d felt so alive. I was more ______ of my surroundings than I’d ever been while hiking that day. I studied the markings of trees, focused my ears on each forest sound and did something I had almost never spared ______ for: I listened to my own thoughts. Every word in my mind pointed to a newfound ______—solo hiking is my happy place. From then on, I have adjusted myself to any solo activity.

Pride ______ through my body when I first launched my kayak. My chest, ______ tightened by nerves, was bursting with happiness as I finally reached the middle of the river that I’d long ______ standing on shore before.

Adventuring alone has become like medicine for me! It’s also pushed me to go ______ my comfort zone and to meet new people. Through meetups and social media, my adventure friend circle has ______. But at least once per month, I schedule time to hit nature with my favorite trail buddy: me.

6 . As a Chinese who travels to Shanghai frequently, here is my suggested list of the top four things to do in Shanghai.

Admire the Bund

The Bund is the most famous and attractive sight there. The best time to admire the Bund is after dark when all the buildings are lit up, creating an extremely colorful and breathtaking scene. There are lots of sightseeing boats that let you view the beautiful Bund every night. Make sure to go on one of these boats. But you are not able to take good photos by boat.

Pay a visit to the Nanjing Road

Even if you are not a shop-lover, please spare an hour to visit Shanghai’s premier shopping street—Nanjing Road. There are upper-class department stores within 1920s-style buildings, along with world-famous brands and restaurants. This place is ideal to shop for authentic (真正的) Shanghainese snacks and souvenirs. If you don’t want to walk, a trackless sightseeing train only costs three yuan.

Take the Maglev Train

Take the Shanghai Maglev Train from Pudong International Airport to the Lujiazui financial district. The Maglev has a regular service speed of 430 km/h and is the fastest railway system in commercial operation in the world. This 30 km ride takes about eight minutes and 50 yuan one way, and 80 yuan for a round trip.

Taste the Hairy Crabs

Do a crab feast! Food hunting is important for most of the travelers. Shanghai’s cuisine is famous and hairy crabs are what you must eat there. However, hairy crabs are seasonal. If you go between September and November, it is the best time to not only enjoy hairy crabs, but a crab feast.

9 . Four-Day Tour in Chongqing

You will be met upon arrival at Chongqing Airport and taken by bus for a short city tour to the Panda House in Chongqing Zoo and the Residence of the famous American General Joseph W. Stilwell if time permits. Have an expensive buffet dinner at a 4-star hotel, Holiday Inn Yangtze before boarding your luxurious 5-star cruise ship.

Enjoy the cruise sailing on the Yangtze River. You will leave the ship for the land at Fengdu, the “Ghost City” for a short trip. Late in the afternoon, the Captain’s Welcome Party presents Chinese folk dance and music performance. You can also join in if you like.

Begin the passage into the Qutang Gorge, the shortest and the grandest of the Three Gorges. Later you will pass through the Wu Gorge with its famous lofty and misty peaks. Disembark at Wushan Daning River for an excursion to the Three Little Gorges or disembark at Badong for an excursion to the Shennong Stream. Continue sailing. The cruise will dock overnight at Maoping, which is close to the Three Gorges Dam site.

After breakfast, visit the construction site of the Three Gorges Dam. Back onboard to pack up your luggage and complete check out procedures. Your local guide will meet you and see you off at the airport.