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The Flowery Pagoda at the Temple of Six Banyan Trees.
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Although it has been some time since I traveled to China and things are constantly changing, I want to mention a couple highlights of my trip that families may also enjoy during their time in Guangzhou.
The Temple of Six Banyan Trees was my first temple experience. It is about 1,400 years old and has witnessed a lot of ups and downs throughout history. The Temple of Six Banyan Trees was not always known by this name. In fact, like the structure itself, its name has also gone through several changes. The current name popped up during the reign of the Song Dynasty. In the beginning, the temple was known as Changshou Temple or the Longevity Temple, which was later changed into Jingshui Temple, before finally getting its current name. The present name of the temple was suggested by Su Dongpo, a well-known litterateur. He found the presence of six banyan trees in the temple compound quite soothing and cheerful. Considered to be one of the oldest Guangzhou attractions, the temple was built in the year 537 AD
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Many visitors burn incense as an offering.
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and currently houses various relics that refer to the rich culture of ancient China. You will find a pagoda located in the temple's middle area. The pagoda is known as the Six Banyan Pagoda, or the Flowery Pagoda, and is about 57 meters tall (17 stories). The climb to the top is well worth it!
During my visit, I was immediately overcome by the wonderful smell of incense that burns throughout the temple. It wasn't long after entering the grounds that I felt a sense of peacefulness and quietness amongst a very loud, busy city. I could have stayed at the temple for hours soaking it all in. I highly recommend families consider visiting this beautiful temple.
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The city along the Pearl River lights up at night!
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Another wonderful experience I had was a dinner cruise along the Pearl River with Mr. Li. The lights and architecture along the river is breathtaking and best viewed via boat. I believe there are several different cruise options; if this is something your family is interested in, I highly recommend asking Mr. Li for his recommendations. In all
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Ky and Mr. Li on the Pearl River cruise.
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honesty, I can't say the food was my favorite, but the atmosphere, the people, and witnessing the beautiful city lights at night along the river is well worth the time spent.
Although many families are now staying off Shamain Island, our agency and Mr. Li still recommend this island as a wonderful place to stay during your time in Guangzhou. Families are finding many of the well-known hotels spots in the city to be a bit too hectic and overwhelming, especially given the sensitive nature of the trip. I spent a few days on my own, sightseeing and taking in the culture and I was impressed with how safe and comfortable I felt alone on the island. The little shops and their owners are welcoming and want to know your story and will chat with you for as long as you will let them. The parks along the walkway of the river were full of activity - children playing ball, dance lessons, tai chi workouts, groups of elderly playing Xiangqi (Chinese chess). Everywhere you looked there was activity and I couldn't help but smile and feel happy witnessing these people enjoying something they loved on a Sunday afternoon.
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On Shamain Island, many people participated in guided tai chi exercises.
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