Great Wall & Forbidden City to Shanghai's skyline. Xinjiang's Silk Road, Guilin and Yangshuo's beauty, Beijing's energy. Diverse & vast!

A practical guide to using Meituan as a foreigner in China. From setup to redemption, learn how to unlock serious savings at restaurants, gyms, cafés, and more.

How to Use Meituan as a Foreigner (Yes, You Actually Can)

Let's explore Nanning, China's Green City. Explore 13 things to do: stunning parks, authentic neighborhoods, local food, and more. Your complete travel guide.

13 Things to Do in Nanning, China's Green City

What is gay life like in China's hyper-modern, tech-driven megacity? Let's explore gay Shenzhen!

Gay Shenzhen Guide: LGBTQ+ Bars, Clubs & Hotels 🇨🇳

Your essential 3-day Guangzhou itinerary covering colonial architecture, modern marvels, authentic Cantonese cuisine, and hidden local neighborhoods in China's southern megacity.

Your Perfect 3-Day Guangzhou Itinerary

What is gay life like in China's super modern, 4th biggest city? Let's explore gay Guangzhou!

Gay Guangzhou Guide: LGBTQ+ Bars, Clubs & Hotels 🇨🇳

Looking for the best things to do in Yangshuo? This 3-day itinerary reveals how to explore China's iconic karst landscape by scooter, find the secret viewpoints, and live the slow river life. Includes where to stay, eat, and our personal tips.

Yangshuo: A 3-Day Itinerary in China's Iconic Landscape

The Guilin to Yangshuo cruise is stunning... once you figure out how to actually get on the boat. Here’s the easy, foreigner-friendly guide with real tips, what the trip is like, and the best way to book your tickets.

Guilin to Yangshuo Cruise Guide: Book Your 2026 Trip

The top things to do in Chongqing: neon nights, spicy hotpot, epic river cruises, and 16 wild adventures in China’s cyberpunk megacity. Also includes 10 bonus excursion ideas from Chongqing.

The Cyberpunk City of China: 16 Things to Do Chongqing

Here are the top things to do in Kunming: ancient towns, wild food, stunning nature, and hidden gems in China’s Spring City of 8.5 million. Plan your adventure now!

The Top 8 Things to Do in Kunming: China's Spring City

The top things to do in Chengdu from our eyes: featuring pandas (of course), Sichuan cuisine, ancient streets, wild nightlife, and day trips. Your Chengdu adventure starts here!

8 Things to Do in Chengdu: A Journey Through a City of Pandas, Spice, and Culture

I found the best things to do in Dali including a blend of quiet alleys, mountain views, rich Bai culture, and lakeside bike rides. Let me show you how this city speaks to the soul.

8 Things to Do in Dali: Discovering the Soul of Dalifornia

What is the gay scene like in China's cyberpunk city? Let's explore what gay Chongqing has to offer.

Gay Chongqing Guide: LGBTQ+ Bars, Clubs & Hotels 🇨🇳

A two-day Lijiang itinerary that skips the fluff: Naxi villages, mountain air, and enough downtime to enjoy it all. Here’s what we’d do!

2 Day Lijiang Itinerary: Culture, Countryside & a Hint of Chaos

Everything you need to know to hike and trek Tiger Leaping Gorge independently. Trail routes, transport, hotels, packing list, and real travel tips.

Tiger Leaping Gorge Hike: Complete 2026 Trail Guide

Let’s head to Gay Chengdu, China’s most LGBTQ+ friendly city. From bars and clubs to hotels and dating tips, see why 'Gaydu' is Asia’s rising queer hotspot.

Gay Chengdu Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars, Clubs & Hotels 🇨🇳

Explore the uncharted beauty of China's far-west in Xinjiang - a region rich in Uyghur culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes. Join us on a journey through snow-capped mountains, trilingual signage, and warm bread stuffed with lamb. Discover why Xinjiang is one of our favorite places on Earth.

A 10-Day Xinjiang Itinerary: Journey Through China's West

Discover Beijing through the eyes of an expat who arrived in the city in 2012. Overcoming grief and homesickness, he explored the city's vastness and culture shock. Read about his experiences and the chance encounter that changed his life in this heartwarming post.

Finding My Family on the Other Side of the World

Discover the best of Shanghai beyond tourist destinations! Wander through the European-styled French Concession, sing your heart out at KTV, take a surreal walk from Old Shanghai to The Bund and sip happy hour cocktails at the 91st floor of Park Hyatt Pudong. And for a truly unique experience, check out Goryeo, a North Korean restaurant where fake smiles and brainwashed conversations are the norm. Join us for some wild and memorable times in this ever-changing megapolis!

The Top Things to Do in Shanghai, China

The Fabryk

After spending a month in Laos, we took the China-Laos Railway...thanks to the suggestion of our Chinese friends...to cross the border into China! 

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
06:04 - Hotel Huedinn: https://go.stay22.com/-19seoxYSI
06:44 - Jinghong Hotel: https://go.stay22.com/KmOjgeTrOb
06:44 - Sipsongpanna Youth Hostel: https://go.stay22.com/8zUIsXKmVn
10:09 - Shaobo Center Guesthouse: https://go.stay22.com/n0bXr6brEs

Our first stop? Jinghong (景红), the heart of Xishuangbanna in Yunnan province.
Yunnan is known as one of the most beautiful regions in China, famous for its diverse ethnic cultures and warm climate. While Ryan has lived in China before (and has fallen in love with Yunnan before), this is Fabio’s first time, so what will our first impressions be? 🤔
Join us on this vlog adventure as we explore Jinghong’s top attractions, including: The lively Gaozhuang Night Market, The stunning Manting Park and The golden Buddhist Dajin Pagoda Temple.
China is a whole new world for us, and we can’t wait to share this journey with you! 
Subscribe for more travel stories! 
Have you been to China? Let us know your favorite places in the comments!
CHAPTERS:
1:16 – Boten: The Last Stop in Laos Before China 🇨🇳
3:34 – Crossing into China: Passport Control 🛂
4:36 – Jinghong Railway Station: Train Experience 🚆
5:56 – Checking In: Our First Hotel in China 🏨
7:22 – Exploring Manting Park 🌳
8:14 – First Impressions of China 👀
13:00 – WeChat 101: The App You Can’t Live Without (in China) 📱
14:42 – Gaozhuang Night Market: A Feast for the Senses 🌙
19:10 – Las Vegas Vibes in China 🎰
20:02 – Our First Chinese Dinner 🥢
23:34 – Day 2: Getting a SIM Card in China 📅
Follow along for more travel adventures:🌍 
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
💖 GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💖
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about sharing our adventures, but right now, it's not fully sustainable. If you'd like to help us keep creating, here’s how you can support:
👉 Become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk
👉 Or just buy us a coffee ☕️ to support our journey: https://buymeacoffee.com/thefabryk
Thank you so much for helping us keep The Fabryk going!
Support our channel through these affiliate links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 Where we stayed in Jinghong:
HomeInn (highly recommended for a night or two): https://trip.tp.st/yvH2LRWF
📲 Our recommended eSim:
Get it from Trip.com, honestly Airalo did not work really well, but this one worked fantastically (and you don't need a VPN): https://trip.tp.st/XWyOpJYk
🏞️ Prebook Manting Park Tickets:
https://trip.tp.st/GvqEHMFX
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9DfTrip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance: 
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵  Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/...
🎧 Music in this video: 
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#ChinaVlog #Xishuangbanna #Jinghong #Yunnan #ChinaTravel #BackpackingChina #TravelVlog #MantingPark #GaozhuangNightMarket #BuddhistTemple #SoutheastAsia #LaosToChina #ChinaLaosRailway #DigitalNomad #GayTravelVlog #HiddenGems #DajinPagoda #ZongfoTemple

First Time in China 🇨🇳 Tropical Jinghong Feels Like Thailand (But It’s Not)

Our next stop on our Yunnan, China adventure was Jingmaishan (景迈山), a part of Pu’er in China and an area most famous for cultivating tea starting over 1,000 years ago (the oldest know tea cultivators, as a matter of fact). 

Tag along as we get invited into random guest houses and learn the local tea-making process, watch “sunrises” over the tea plantations, and go to some villages deep in the Jingmaishan area where we meet members of the Dai (傣族) and Blang (布朗族) ethnic minority Groups - the original cultivators of Pu Erh tea (普洱茶). 

Near the end of the video, Fabio gives his HONEST first impressions of China after being in the country for a few days.

Come along with us as we experience the real China (the rural China that few Westerners get to see).

Sections
00:00 - Intro/How We Got to Jingmaishan
02:56 - Our “Loose” China Plans
04:46 - Touring a Tea Factory (which doubles as a guest house)
06:26 - Our First Tea Ceremony
08:55 - Heading to Watch the Sunrise
11:09 - Our First Local Breakfast
11:56 - Village 1 (A Dai Village) - 糯岗老寨
16:52 - Having a Local Lunch
17:59 - Village 2 (A Blang Village) - 翁基
21:14 - Fabio’s First HONEST China Impressions

Locations: 
The General Area - Jingmai Mountains 景迈山
Smaller Villages within Jingmaishan - 糯岗老寨 and 翁基

Follow along for more China and Travel adventures:🌍 
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💕
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/

or 
Buy us a coffee ☕️  (aka just a bit of cash to help support our content creation endeavors) - https://buymeacoffee.com/thefabryk

Support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):

🏡 The guest house we stayed in Jingmaishan: 
Lancang Tea Youxiaoju Inn - https://trip.tp.st/s12eWng5

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9DfTrip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP

🩺 Travel Insurance: 
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk

🎵  Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/fission_receive?code=ypPpvj62681037&lng=en

🎧 Music in this video: 
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc

#chinaadventure
#yunnanchina
#jingmaishan
#puertea
#chinesetea
#teaculture
#travelchina
#offthebeatenpath
#teaexperience
#teaceremony
#daipeople
#blangpeople
#culturaltravel
#ruralchina
#chinavlog
#fabioandryan
#sustainabletravel
#authentictravel
#asiatravel
#chinatea
#travelseries
#yunnantravel
#mountainlife
#slowtravel
#teatour
#ecoexplorer
#teaplantation
#teatime
#chinastories
#traveldeep

We Visited the BIRTHPLACE of Tea in Yunnan, China 🇨🇳

After surviving a bout of food poisoning, Fabio and Ryan took a friend’s advice and headed deep into the mountains of Yunnan...into Ximeng, the heart of Wa culture (佤族）.

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
02:07 - Ximeng Sanshui Hotel: https://go.stay22.com/sM93xhLK_L
08:39 - Hong Shang Jia Hotel: https://go.stay22.com/y46cu-ppNv

But… who are the Wa people? And why do they worship ox skulls?
They’re one of China’s 55 ethnic minorities (中国少数民族), but beyond that, you won’t hear much about them. This video takes you to the borderlands of China and Myanmar, where life looks, sounds, and feels like another country entirely.
From traditional dress to mysterious rituals, we explore a culture that few outsiders have ever heard of....let alone visited.
🎥 Come with us to Ximeng, where the roads are winding and the culture runs deep.
Sections:
00:27 | Off to Ximeng – bus from Lancang 🚌  
01:28 | First look: what's with all the ox heads? 🐂  
04:24 | Lunch at a Wa restaurant 🍜  
06:28 | Who are the Wa people? 🎎  
08:52 | Exploring the eco-tourism zone 🌿  
10:04 | Hiking the ox head hills 🏞️  
13:46 | Stroll around Mengsuo Longtan Lake 🌊  
15:42 | Wa-style drinks – cheers! 🍶  
16:56 | Dinner round two – more Wa cuisine 🍲  
17:52 | Leaving Ximeng + eco travel talk ♻️  
20:28 | The truth behind the Wa & the ox heads 🔍  
Follow along for more China and Travel adventures:🌍 
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💕
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
or 
Buy us a coffee ☕️  (aka just a bit of cash to help support our content creation endeavors) - https://buymeacoffee.com/thefabryk
Support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The hotel we stayed in Ximeng: 
Ximeng Hongshangjia Hotel - https://trip.tp.st/MrosAN4D
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9DfTrip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance: 
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵  Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/fission_receive?code=ypPpvj62681037&lng=en
🎧 Music in this video: 
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#WaPeople #Ximeng #YunnanTravel #ChinaEthnicGroups #HiddenChina #CulturalExploration #IndigenousAsia #BorderlandsChina #ChinaVlog #TravelChina #OffTheBeatenPath #YunnanCulture #ChinaMinorities #EthnicChina #RemoteChina #UndiscoveredChina #WaCulture #AsianTribes #WaTraditions #BackpackingChina #WaCommunity #CulturalPreservation #WaEthnicGroup #ChinaUnseen #AsianBorderlands #WaFestival #WaTraditionalLife #ExploringYunnan #ChinaHiddenGems #LostTribes

We Visited China’s Most Mysterious Tribe? 🇨🇳 In Search of the Wa People

On this part of our Yunnan, China (云南, 中国) journey, we make a short but unforgettable stop in the city of Pu’er (普洱市)...formerly known as Simao (思茅)...on our way to Kunming.

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
00:06 - Bo Yan Hotel: https://go.stay22.com/MpeKSmI9kh

What started as a simple overnight stay turned into something deeper. A friend had told us about a Red Panda Forest (小熊猫庄园) tucked away in the hills just outside the city, and that mission became our main goal. 🐼
But as we wandered the streets, shared tea with locals, and devoured smoky Chinese barbecue (烧烤), we discovered that Pu’er isn’t just about its famous tea...it’s full of warmth, flavor, and quiet wonder. The kind of place you wish you had more time to enjoy.
From the wisdom of tea masters to the peaceful forests where endangered red pandas still roam, this stopover left us with far more than we expected.
If you’re ever passing through Pu’er, maybe don’t pass through so quickly.
And yes… we did find the red pandas. ❤️
📍 Featured Location: 小熊猫庄园 (Red Panda Forest)
We recommend using DiDi to get there—it’s about a 45-minute ride from downtown.
Entry is ¥150 RMB per person, and includes the internal shuttle through the park.
You can also stay overnight in a forest lodge surrounded by red pandas:
➡️ https://trip.tp.st/6SXvRPXC
We also mentioned the Giant Panda Research Center in Chengdu...We did end up going here and will show it in a future video, but for more info, check it out here: https://trip.tp.st/Jsoxg9dc
────────────────
00:21 - Dropped in Pu’er: Where Exactly Are We?
01:13 - First Impressions of Pu’er (普洱) City
02:25 - A Tea Ceremony with Our “Ferry God-Mothers”
03:54 - Our First Real Chinese Barbecue (烧烤) Experience
05:07 - Entering the Red Panda Forest (小熊猫庄园)
11:28 - We FINALLY Found the Red Pandas ❤️🐼❤️
15:02 - Reflections & Farewell from Pu’er
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and next stop: Kunming.
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💕
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
or 
Buy us a coffee ☕️  (aka just a bit of cash to help support our content creation endeavors) - https://buymeacoffee.com/thefabryk
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The hotel we stayed in Pu’er:
Perting Luxury Art Hotel - https://trip.tp.st/jpMYnPgk
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/fission_receive?code=ypPpvj62681037&lng=en
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
────────────────
#ChinaVlog #PuerTea #RedPandas #YunnanTravel #ChineseBarbecue #ChinaHiddenGems #WildlifeVlog #TravelChina #普洱 #小熊猫 #烧烤
#OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreChina #ChinaNature #TeaLovers #BackroadsChina #CulturalTravel #UndiscoveredChina #HiddenDestinations #TravelAsia #ChinaAdventures #NatureInChina #PandaVlog #ChineseStreetFood #SlowTravelChina #StoryDrivenTravel

Unexpected Wonders of Pu’er, China (Yes, Red Pandas Too) 🇨🇳

After exploring some of Yunnan’s most unusual spots, we finally made it to Kunming…Fabio’s first time in a Chinese megacity!

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
19:48 - Atour Hotel: https://go.stay22.com/3GPlbio03S
20:59 - Home Inn Selected: https://go.stay22.com/ayZBbv1UmV

在探索了云南一些最特别的地方之后，我们终于来到了昆明——Fabio 第一次踏入中国的特大城市！
Known as the Spring City (春城) for its reasonable year-long temperatures and weather, and despite being a city of over 8 million (the size of London 🤯), Kunming surprised us with its relaxed vibe, lush nature, and mix of modern life and tradition.
昆明常年气候宜人，被誉为“春城”。虽然是一个拥有800多万人口的大城市（和伦敦差不多大 🤯），但它轻松的氛围、丰富的自然风光和传统与现代的融合让我们大吃一惊。
In this vlog, these are the locations we visit:
🎥 本期视频中我们打卡了以下地点：
🏘️ Guandu Ancient Town (官渡古镇)
🌿 Green Lake Park (Cui Hu / 翠湖公园)
🛍️ Nanping Business Street (南屏街) & Kunming Flower Market (昆明花市)
🌄 The stunning Stone Forest (Shilin / 石林) (Check it out: https://trip.tp.st/BRhc8xBK)
🏞️ Dian Lake (Dian Chi / 滇池) to get to the scenic Dragon Gate (西山龙门) — epic fail 😅
♨️ Jinfang Forest Hot Springs (金方森林温泉) (Check it out: https://trip.tp.st/tjEX8lVY)
🍄 And yes... mushroom hotpot! 野生菌火锅随处可见，随便找一家看着顺眼的就行！
Check out why Kunming is called the Spring City and why it might be one of China’s most underrated destinations.
来看看为什么昆明被称为“春城”，以及为什么它可能是中国最被低估的旅行地之一。
────────────────
CHAPTERS
0:44 Welcome to Kunming! 🌞
2:38 Is it really the Spring City? 🌸
4:22 Waking up in Yunnan’s capital 🌅
7:32 Guangdu Ancient Town 🏯
12:06 Past and present in Green Lake Park 🍃
17:06 Wonders of Napping Street 😴
20:56 Local dish: mushrooms hot pot 🍲
23:52 The magical Stone Forest 🪨
31:32 Special hot springs ♨️
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and next stop: Lijiang (丽江).
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💕
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
or 
Buy us a coffee ☕️  (aka just a bit of cash to help support our content creation endeavors) - https://buymeacoffee.com/thefabryk
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The hotel we stayed in Kunming:
Dreamscape Rainbow Hotel - https://trip.tp.st/fTkTGzCz
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#kunmingtravel  
#yunnanadventures  
#springcitychina  
#chinaoffthebeatenpath  
#travelchina  
#kunmingvlog  
#gaytravelers  
#queertravel  
#exploreyunnan  
#stoneforest  
#dianchi  
#chinesecities  
#ancienttowns  
#greenlakepark  
#mushroomhotpot  
#chinafoodie  
#backpackingchina  
#lgbtqtravel  
#travelwithus  
#fabrykchina

We Found China’s Most Relaxed Megacity (Kunming) 🇨🇳

While we were in Kunming, Yunnan, China, we came across stories about a so-called “ghost city” in the Chenggong district. Built between 2003 and 2012, Chenggong was meant to be a brand new urban hub, but when hardly anyone moved in, it quickly gained the reputation of a ghost city. Naturally, our curiosity got the better of us. So, we hopped on Line 1 of the Kunming metro and headed straight to Chenggong to see if that eerie reputation still holds up.

Does Chenggong still feel abandoned? Or has it finally come to life? Let’s find out.

當我們在昆明的時候，聽說了關於呈貢區“鬼城”的故事。這座城市在2003年至2012年間建成，本來計劃成為一個嶄新的城市中心，但由於最初幾乎沒有人搬進去，很快就被稱為“鬼城”。出於好奇，我們搭乘昆明地鐵1號線，前往呈貢一探究竟。

呈貢現在還是空蕩蕩的嗎？還是說它終於活起來了？一起來看看吧。

────────────────

📍 Locations We Visit 地點參觀

👻 Chenggong District, Kunming
👻 昆明市呈貢區

────────────────

⏱️ CHAPTERS

00:30 Intro to Chenggong
02:52 Is this mall a ghost mall?
04:24 Is this temple a ghost temple?
05:24 Thoughts Part 1
06:00 Is this shopping center a ghost shopping center?
07:38 Final thoughts on Chenggong District

────────────────

✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and next stop: Lijiang (丽江).
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

────────────────

GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💕
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/

or 
Buy us a coffee ☕️  (aka just a bit of cash to help support our content creation endeavors) - https://buymeacoffee.com/thefabryk

And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):

🏡 The hotel we stayed in Kunming:
Dreamscape Rainbow Hotel - https://trip.tp.st/fTkTGzCz

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP

🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk

🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/

🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc


#kunmingtravel #chenggongdistrict #ghostcitychina #urbanexploration #abandonedplaces #chinaurbanism #chinesecities #travelchina #offthebeatentrack #yunnantravel #kunmingvlog #chinaadventure #emptycities #chinalife #weirdchina #ghostmall #gaytravelvlog #digitalnomadsinchina #underratedchina #curiouswanderers

Not Your Average Chinese Ghost City (Chenggong, Kunming 🇨🇳)

Our Blog Post for Lijiang: https://thefabryk.com/blog/2-day-lijiang-china-itinerary

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
02:17 - 揽月 (Lǎn Yuè): https://go.stay22.com/lacLIqu-mM

We’re in Lijiang, one of the most charming old towns in China, discovering local Chinese breakfasts, Naxi culture, and the unique vibe of Shuhe Ancient Town.
我们现在在丽江，这是中国最迷人的古镇之一，正在探索地道的中式早餐、纳西文化，以及束河古镇独特的氛围。
We try traditional foods like tea eggs, baozi, and pumpkin rice porridge 🍳🥟, explore cultural heritage near Tibet, and pay with Alipay like locals.
我们品尝了茶叶蛋、包子和南瓜粥等传统美食，感受靠近西藏的文化氛围，还像本地人一样用支付宝付款。
Lijiang sits between Dali and Shangri-La, and is famous for its beautiful views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and proximity to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of China’s best hikes.
丽江位于大理和香格里拉之间，以玉龙雪山的壮丽景色和虎跳峡的徒步胜地而闻名。
We talk about the fascinating matrilineal Naxi society, Yunnan coffee, and why this place is perfect for curious travelers.
我们还聊到了神秘的母系纳西族社会、云南咖啡，以及为什么这里是好奇心满满的旅行者的天堂。
Whether you’re into Chinese food, ethnic minority cultures, or just looking for an off-the-beaten-path Yunnan travel guide, this vlog is for you.
不管你是热爱中餐、对少数民族文化感兴趣，还是想找一条小众的云南旅行路线，这期视频都不容错过。
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
Pumpkin Risotto in West Virginia – full recipe + autumn vibes 🎃
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ix7etnSBmiY
Chinese Ethnic Minorities – exploring deep traditions and diversity 🧧
👉 https://youtu.be/4vQF6hzZizg?feature=shared
Tea Culture in Yunnan – not just coffee, tea is huge here too 🍵
👉 https://youtu.be/ahH57RC0PK4?feature=shared
Red Panda in Pu’er – cutest encounter ever! 🐼
👉 https://youtu.be/ukX1UR6cKz8?feature=shared
Not China, but nearby: our South Korea Series – full of surprises 🇰🇷
👉 https://youtu.be/gWdl_O7DMEQ?feature=shared
────────────────
📍 Locations We Visit 地點參觀
Shuhe 束河古鎮
Gucheng 麗江古城（古城）
Mufu Palace木府
Yun Xue Li Restaurant 云雪丽餐厅
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
0:14 Chinese breakfast to start the day 🍜  
1:38 Arriving at our hotel in Lijiang 🏨  
2:32 Welcome to Lijiang: exploring Shuheh Ancient Village 🏯  
5:34 A coffee break, Yunnan-style ☕  
5:58 Walking on the ancient Tea Horse Road 🐎  
6:48 Tasting the famous flower cakes 🌹  
8:08 Quick lesson on Chinese yuan currency 💴  
9:38 Naxi traditional engineering in action 🛠️  
10:58 Who were the powerful Mu Fu clan? 📜  
11:44 Trying "Over the Bridge" noodles 🍲  
14:48 Visiting the hidden gem of Ghuangchen Ancient Village 🗺️  
16:53 Discovering the majestic Mu Fu Palace 👑  
20:12 Strolling through the southern part of Lijiang’s Gucheng 🏘️  
21:10 Lijiang nightlife & Naxi dinner experience 🍶
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and next stop: Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡).
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💕
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The hotel we stayed in Lijiang Old City:
Yueerxuan Secret Garden Beautiful Stay - https://trip.tp.st/nFDPceBZ
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#lijiang  
#yunnan  
#yunnantravel  
#chinaadventure  
#lijiangoldtown  
#shuheancienttown  
#mufupalace  
#naxiculture  
#ancientchina  
#visitlijiang  
#chinaoffthebeatenpath  
#travelchina  
#chinesehistory  
#digitalnomadsinchina  
#asiatravelvlog  
#chinalifestyle  
#gaytravelchina  
#chinesefoodie  
#chinateahorseroad  
#flowercakes

Is This the Most Beautiful Ancient Village in China? Lijiang, Yunnan 🇨🇳

More about our Lijiang itinerary on our blog: https://thefabryk.com/blog/2-day-lijiang-china-itinerary

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
15:10:00 - Hilton: https://go.stay22.com/oZZp3IZqVe

Here we continue our Lijiang adventure by heading into the Jade Dragon Snow Mountains for a breathtaking day trip…
我们继续我们的丽江之旅，前往壮观的玉龙雪山，开启令人惊叹的一日游。
This is one of those places that stays with you. In just a few hours, you’re lifted from the charm of Lijiang Old Town… suddenly surrounded by snow-covered peaks, gazing into dreamlike turquoise pools, and before you know it, you’re watching a beautifully choreographed performance (Impressions of Lijiang)…set against an even more spectacular natural backdrop.
这是一个让人难以忘怀的地方。短短几个小时里，你就从丽江古城的迷人氛围中出发……转眼间置身于皑皑雪峰之间，凝望如梦如幻的蓝色湖水，接着欣赏一场编排精美的表演——背景竟是令人屏息的自然奇观。
If you’re visiting Lijiang, this is an experience you simply cannot miss…no matter how many others had the same brilliant idea. 😉
如果你来到丽江，这趟旅程绝对不可错过——尽管也许会和很多游客撞个满怀😉。
To book this tour (not including lunch):
预订此行程（不含午餐）：
https://trip.tp.st/yHF12rK3
────────────────
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
🎥 本集提到的视频：
Another blue lake? Kinda. Watch our exploration of Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan 🌊 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6icEACUA5pc
See how we deal with a really special mushroom hotpot in Kunming 🍄 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo5sCzMZJr8
How we got obsessed with Luckin Coffee in Chenggong ☕ 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_QFU-nLfkM
Missed the first part of our Lijiang adventure in Guheng and Shuhe? Catch up  here 🥡
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVoTOEjugO0
Dive deeper into China’s most curious ethnic minority, the Wa 🎎 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vQF6hzZizg
────────────────
📍 Locations We Visit 地点参观
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 玉龙雪山
Blue Moon Valley 蓝月谷
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:10 Waking up (very early) in Lijiang ☀️
00:53 Sunrise view 🌄
02:48 Taking the cable car to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 🚡
05:22 Introduction to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 🏔️
06:28 The Meadow and the stunning views 🐴
07:46 Exploring Blue Moon Valley and its magical lakes 💙
10:04 Hotpot lunch with a mountain view 🍲
12:36 Arriving at the Impression Lijiang open-air show 🎭
13:00 Experiencing the immersive Impression Lijiang performance 🎬
15:06 Wǎn'ān! Goodnight from Lijiang 🌙
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and next stop: Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡).
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💗
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The hotel we stayed in Lijiang Old City:
Yueerxuan Secret Garden Beautiful Stay - https://trip.tp.st/nFDPceBZ
🚶 The Tour We Did (doesn’t include the lunch)
https://trip.tp.st/yHF12rK3
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#lijiangtravel  
#yulongsnowmountain  
#bluemoonvalley  
#chinaadventures  
#mountainescape  
#daytripgoals  
#naturelovers  
#epiclandscapes  
#travelchina  
#snowypeaks  
#hiddenchina  
#breathtakingviews  
#travelvloggers  
#scenicspot  
#gaytravelchina
#gaytravel  
#lgbtqtravel  
#gaytravelers  
#queertravel  
#gaycoupletravel  
#travelreels  
#viraltravel  
#reeltravel  
#travelgram  
#wanderlustdaily

The Most Beautiful Excursion in China? Jade Dragon Mountain, Lijiang, Yunnan 🇨🇳

For everything you need to know before hiking Tiger Leaping Gorge: Sky Ladder, 28 Bends, and how not to die on the trail 🤣, check out our accompanying blog post: https://thefabryk.com/blog/tiger-leaping-gorge-hike

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
00:47 - Naxi Family Guest House: https://go.stay22.com/qwOnnLuwZL
10:28 - Tea-Horse Trade G.H: https://go.stay22.com/aJ42TDZ51J
13:38 - Halfway G.H.: https://go.stay22.com/o-Kx7MyFOt
14:37 - Come Inn: https://go.stay22.com/v-oAJD2-u3
21:26 - Teacher Zhang's Guest House: https://go.stay22.com/cdkYY8E5No

────────────────
We’re back in Yunnan, China...and standing at the edge of one of the most breathtaking and brutal hikes in Asia: the Tiger Leaping Gorge.
Ryan did this hike solo back in 2014 and barely recovered. This time, he’s dragging Fabio along to relive the glory… and the pain.
A lot has changed since then, such as, fewer international hikers, more developed trails...but the danger, beauty, and exhaustion? All still here.
Join us as we push through this 2-day mountain odyssey: climbing the legendary 28 Bends, dangling on Sky Ladders, gasping for air, and handing you our best tips along the way.
Warning: You will be tired. You might cry. But you’ll want to do it anyway.
Sources: 
Map of Tiger Leaping Gorge: https://www.chinaodysseytours.com/yunnan/tiger-leaping-gorge.html#menu_3
China’s Growing Hiking and Outdoor Trends: https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202503/1330140.shtml
────────────────
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
🎥 本集提到的视频：
Another blue lake? Kinda. Watch our exploration of Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan 🌊 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6icEACUA5pc
See how we deal with a really special mushroom hotpot in Kunming 🍄 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo5sCzMZJr8
How we got obsessed with Luckin Coffee in Chenggong ☕ 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_QFU-nLfkM
Missed the first part of our Lijiang adventure in Guheng and Shuhe? Catch up  here 🥡
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVoTOEjugO0
Dive deeper into China’s most curious ethnic minority, the Wa 🎎 
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vQF6hzZizg
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:47 The Start: Are We Even Ready for This?
04:21 The Infamous 28 Bends (It Gets Steep Fast)
10:27 A Breath of Relief at Tea Horse Guesthouse
13:30 We Made It to Halfway! (Overnight Reflections)
15:40 Next Morning...Sore Legs, No Regrets
20:59 Entering the Actual Gorge – The Views Hit Different
24:01 The 168 Steps of Doom (a.k.a. the Death Ladders)
25:14 Final Recap + Tips for Surviving Tiger Leaping Gorge
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and next stop: Shangri-La ☸️.
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💗
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The guesthouses we recommend:
Beginning of the trail 
Naxi Family Guesthouse: https://trip.tp.st/wclqLcn3
Halfway
Halfway Guesthouse https://trip.tp.st/mCUMTl6q
“Leaning against the small courtyard on the hill”: https://trip.tp.st/7zAihjCH
End of the trail
Teacher Zhang’s Inn: https://trip.tp.st/wjdbKL8h
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#tigerleapinggorge  
#yunnantravel  
#chinatravelguide  
#hikingchina  
#backpackingchina  
#asiahikingtrails  
#digitalnomadsinchina  
#queertravelers  
#gaytravelcouple  
#natureadventures  
#mountainhikes  
#lijiangchina  
#travelchinacheap  
#hikingadventures  
#offthebeatentrack

The Hike That Made Us Question Everything (Tiger Leaping Gorge) 🇨🇳

Today we take you not to Tibet…but to Shangri-La.

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
00:00:41 - Deyang Mansion: https://go.stay22.com/AB8do72dXy
17:38 - Premium 7 Inn: https://go.stay22.com/CWh8sWAPSV

Shangri-La… it’s a name that sounds straight out of a fantasy novel….because it is! The town was renamed after the mythical paradise described in James Hilton’s 1933 novel “Lost Horizon”. In the book, Shangri-La is a hidden utopia tucked away in the Himalayas, where time stands still and harmony reigns.
But this real-life Shangri-La, located in China’s Yunnan province near the border of Tibet, is every bit as magical. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, prayer flags, and dramatic landscapes, it offers a taste of Tibetan culture without crossing the border (which requires a permit and a guide). From wandering the peaceful old town to visiting the largest Tibetan monastery in China, Songzanlin Monastery, this place feels like stepping into another world and is hands down one of our favorite places in China.
In this video, we take you with us as we explore Shangri-La: the stunning nature, the culture, and the stories that make this place so unique. Is it the paradise the book describes? Come along and decide for yourself!
────────────────
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
We survived the Tiger Leaping Gorge overnight hike ⛰️
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_8nSrK-zMo
Missed how our China journey began? It all started in Xishuangbanna 🌿
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RafXwJ8P0g
Dressed like Dai and picked tea in Puer — call it what you want, we loved it 👯‍♂️
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahH57RC0PK4
Soak with us in a hot spring near Kunming — it’s like bathing in a hot pot ♨️
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo5sCzMZJr8
We met red pandas (and lost our minds) in Pu’er 🐼
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukX1UR6cKz8
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:40 Our Beautiful Accommodation in Dukezong Old Town
1:40 Our First Authentic Tibetan Meal
4:34 Breakfast in Shangri-La
5:00 Exploring Songzanlin Monastery
8:38 First Impressions of the Grand Monastery
15:04 Delicious Food from Gansu Province
16:18 The Vibe of Dukezong Old Town
18:26 Vibrant Ethnic Performance in Dukezong Square
20:50 Guishan park and the huge Prayer Wheel
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and we have a bit more Shangri-La to show you...
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💗
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The Tibetan-style guesthouse we stayed in:
Deyang Mansion: https://trip.tpo.li/aFdEEvib
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
🗣️ Improve your English:
Boldvoice - https://start.boldvoice.com/YMIWUH?d=R10&z=1
#shangrila
#yunnan
#chinatravel
#tibetanplateau
#offthebeatentrack
#travellikealocal
#hiddenparadise
#travelchina
#mountainadventures
#slowtravel
#travelvlog
#gaytravel
#lgbtqtravel
#culturaltourism
#nomadlife

This Isn’t Tibet… But It Feels Like It (Shangri-La, Yunnan) 🇨🇳

In this episode of our China series, we dive deeper into our time in Shangri-La (what used to be called Zhongdian (CN) or Gyalthang (Tibetan)) and explore the Tibetan culture that makes this place so unique.

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
00:54 - Jiacuo, Youzhai Oxygen Supply Villa: https://go.stay22.com/zs_KXp-3Ii
11:18 - Dukezong Flower Lane Hotel: https://go.stay22.com/PnTsGDdlfO

We try Tibetan hotpot, taste yak butter tea with peanuts (we swear it tastes like chocolate-less snickers), and finally meet a real yak!
Then we visit the lesser-known Baiji Temple, a peaceful spot with chickens roaming freely…proof that we don’t always complain about crowds.
We take a walk through Xiangbala Park (香巴拉公园) and end the day with a thangka painting class, where Fabio draws one of the 8 Auspicious Symbols of Tibetan Buddhism.
Next week: our final Shangri-La vlog at Potatso National Park, one of China’s most famous nature reserves. Will it live up to the title?
Note: We’re travelers who love to learn — not experts or sponsored voices. We share what we see and feel, with curiosity and respect. Feel free to share your thoughts or add info in the comments! 
────────────────
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
Shangri-La Part 1: Must-sees including Songzanlin Monastery 🏔️
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVoTOEjugO0
We tried the best excursion in China — and it came with hotpot 🍲
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XV5jaD0sZmE
We ate yak with a view on the Tiger Leaping Gorge hike 🐃
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_8nSrK-zMo
Xishuangbanna: Is this still China or Southeast Asia? ☀️
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RafXwJ8P0g
Where the Tea Horse Road begins — and yes, there's tea! 🍵
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahH57RC0PK4
Fabio’s first stinky tofu at Jonker Street Market, Malacca 🤯
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2Tnx8ATshw
Potatso National Park — a nature wonder recognized worldwide 🌲
👉 • COMING SOON
📺 Follow our full China Playlist here:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:28 Is Shangri-La a real place or just a legend? 🏔️
01:24 Trying yak hotpot for the first time 🍲
04:48 Exploring the new Xiangbala Park 🌿
07:44 Visiting Baiji Temple — the “One Hundred Chickens” Temple 🐔
10:12 Wandering through the old town of Shangri-La 🏘️
13:34 Discovering the traditional Tibetan art of Thangka 🎨
────────────────
📝 We’re documenting every part of our China journey to show you...
🌐 More stories & guides on our blog:
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
📸 Daily aventures:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
🙏 Thanks for watching! If you enjoy our content, please consider supporting us on Patreon or through the links below (at no extra cost to you):
💗 GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
🏡 The Tibetan-style guesthouse we stayed in:
Deyang Mansion: https://trip.tpo.li/aFdEEvib
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
🗣️ Want to improve your English like Fabio?
Boldvoice - https://start.boldvoice.com/YMIWUH?d=R10&z=1
#ShangriLaChina #TibetanCulture #HiddenChina #SlowTravel #ExploreAsia

We Found the Real Shangri-La in China! Hidden Tibet in Yunnan 🇨🇳

More about this video on our blog: https://thefabryk.com/blog/things-to-do-dali-china

On our final stop in Yunnan (云南), we head to one of Ryan’s favorite places in China: Dali (大理) … often nicknamed “Dalifornia” for being one of the most relaxed, free-spirited destinations in the country that many of the young people of China are moving to.

Ryan has visited Dali multiple times before, but as always, this city full of charm still had some surprises in store. For Fabio, this was his first time in Dali, and it blew his expectations out of the water. 

Together with our sassy friend Adrian, we explore the rich Bai (白族) minority culture, take a “hike” up the scenic Cang Mountain (苍山), and discover ancient villages like Xizhou (喜洲古镇) and Zhoucheng (周城村), both full of traditional Bai architecture and local life. 

We also take you along for a scenic bike ride around Erhai Lake (洱海), visit the famous Three Pagodas (三塔), and check out Dali’s thriving hipster scene…from quirky bars and eco-farms to quiet corners where creatives and retirees have found their haven in modern-day Dalifornia.

So, does Dali really live up to its nickname? Come with us and find out.

────────────────

Locations in the Video:
视频拍摄地点: 

- Dali Old Town (大理古城)
- Cang Mountain (苍山)
- Tianlongbabu Film Studio (天龙八部影视城)
- Three Pagodas (三塔 / 崇圣寺三塔)
- Xizhou Ancient Village (喜洲古镇)
- Zhoucheng Village (周城村)
- The Retiree’s Society Bar (退休社会酒吧)
- Chai Mi Duo Ranch (柴米多)
- Erhai Lake (洱海)
- Dragon’s Tale Village / Dragon Tail Gate (龙尾关村)

────────────────

🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
🎥 本集提到的视频：

Our Shangri-La Adventures ☸️:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwO9Yx5JH74artedw1CpytvT

Our Hokkaido vlog (where we first experience sakura) 🌸:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6icEACUA5pc

Learn all about the origins of tea in China’s Jingmaishan area 🫖:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahH57RC0PK4

Kunming vlog (where we eat mushroom hotpot) 🍄:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo5sCzMZJr8

Lijiang vlog (where we eat rose cakes) 🌹:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVoTOEjugO0

────────────────

⏱️ CHAPTERS

00:00 – Arriving in Dali
01:47 – Up to Cang Mountain (苍山) we go
10:20 – A little lesson on Bai culture (白族文化)
12:06 – Visiting the Three Pagodas (三塔)
15:30 – Meeting Adrian for a traditional Bai dinner
18:28 – Exploring Xizhou (喜洲古镇), Dali’s other ancient town
24:44 – Zhoucheng (周城村), Dali’s ‘little fossil’ of Bai heritage
27:02 – Experiencing Dali’s hipster nightlife
28:37 – A laid-back stop at Chai Mi Duo Ranch (柴米多牧场)
30:28 – Biking around Erhai Lake (洱海)
32:01 – Final surprise: Dragon’s Tail Village (龙尾关村)
33:56 – Final thoughts: Is Dalifornia the real deal?

────────────────

✨ We’re documenting every part of our China journey...and next stop: Chengdu (成都).

Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

────────────────

GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💗
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/

And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):

🏡 The hotel we stayed in Lijiang Old City:
Gude Yiwu Inn - https://trip.tpo.li/gzlPASX3 

🚶 Chairlift Options for Cang Mountain
https://trip.tpo.li/dfYYRICy 

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP

🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk

🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/

🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc

#DaliYunnan #ErhaiLake #BaiCulture #ChinaTravelVlog #DaliforniaVibes

Dali: The Dreamy Chinese City Everyone Wants to Move To 🇨🇳

We’ve officially left Yunnan (云南) and arrived in Chengdu (成都), the spicy, panda-filled capital of Sichuan Province (四川省). But before all the panda bears, we made a stop at one of the most absurdly massive buildings we’ve ever seen: the New Century Global Center (新世纪环球中心).

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
11:23 - InterContinental: https://go.stay22.com/Eddt1WtqF_

Often cited as the largest building in the world (by floor area), this megastructure is basically a mini-city under one roof, complete with a gigantic mall 🛍️, an indoor ice skating rink ⛸️, a full water park 🏄, and even multiple hotels. Oh, and did we mention the endless escalators?
Our verdict? It’s enormous, strangely empty, and capitalism at its weirdest. We got lost, found an ice rink, nearly wandered into a luxury hotel, and spent a weirdly peaceful afternoon in one of the most surreal places in Chengdu.
👉 Watch as we explore this over-the-top building and give you our honest take on whether it’s worth visiting.
────────────────
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
🎥 本集提到的视频：
Explore Chenggong – a “ghost city” that's very much alive 👻:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_QFU-nLfkM
See the stunning Galleria in Naples (in our Agropoli vlog) 🛍️:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4WgVzOJuq4
Modern architecture in Baku’s stylish mall – why Baku is a must-visit ✨:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zn2Ewum1auk
Chengdu vlog – pandas, parks, and city vibes 🐼 (coming soon!):
👉 • COMING SOON
Curious about our life in Berlin? Watch us pack and prep like pros 🎒:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3v7756GDjA
Kunming vlog (where we eat mushroom hotpot) 🍄:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo5sCzMZJr8
Lijiang vlog (where we eat rose cakes) 🌹:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVoTOEjugO0
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:02 – The World’s Largest Building (by area!)
00:58 – What’s Inside the Global Center?
01:44 – First Impressions: Sleek & Marble Entrance
03:12 – Exploring the Upper Main Floor
04:58 – Let’s Start Shopping! 🛍️
06:02 – The Indoor Restaurant Street 🍜
08:34 – There’s a Water Park Inside?! 💦
10:38 – The International Hotel & Mediterranean Village
12:22 – Final Thoughts & Recap
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our China journey...and next stop: Chengdu (成都).
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💗
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The hotel we stayed in Lijiang Old City:
Gude Yiwu Inn - https://trip.tpo.li/gzlPASX3 
🚶 Chairlift Options for Cang Mountain
https://trip.tpo.li/dfYYRICy 
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#WorldsLargestBuilding #ChengduChina #ChinaTravelVlog #UrbanExploration #LGBTQTravelers

The World's Largest Building? Welcome to Chengdu's New Century Global Center 🇨🇳

Here we are in Chengdu, baby! 

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
24:51 - Oriental Garden Hotel: https://go.stay22.com/cyTrjAg3AO

Ryan first visited this incredible Sichuan (四川) city back in 2013 with his mama, but now we’re back, and trust us, the panda hype is still very real. There are pandas everywhere…on murals, souvenirs, metro signs and those handles in the metros, and yes, actual pandas. Why? Because Chengdu is home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地), a world-renowned conservation center that’s playing a critical role in preventing the giant panda from going extinct. Naturally, we’re heading there to see the real stars of the city up close.
Want more details from the trip?  
📍 Top Things to Do in Chengdu: https://thefabryk.com/blog/things-to-do-in-chengdu-china
📍 The Gay Chengdu Guide: https://thefabryk.com/blog/gay-chengdu-china-guide
But Chengdu is so much more than just adorable bears. In this travel vlog, we’re:
- Diving face-first into spicy and numbing Sichuan cuisine (川菜), including hotpot and mouth-numbing peppercorn dishes
- Visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha (乐山大佛): the world’s tallest stone Buddha statue carved into a cliff
- Exploring Chengdu’s legendary LGBTQ+ nightlife and vibrant, inclusive bar culture
- Trying iconic local snacks like mapo tofu (麻婆豆腐), dan dan noodles (担担面), and sipping authentic Sichuan-style milk tea
So come along with us as we explore the best things to do in Chengdu in just a couple of days. From cultural landmarks to unforgettable food and fabulous queer nightlife, this city really does have it all.
📍 Whether you’re planning your first trip to China, curious about LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Asia, or just here for the pandas, this is your sign to put Chengdu on your bucket list.
────────────────
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
Dreamy Dali, Yunnan Vlog:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpfhDX6jjho
Kunming Vlog:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo5sCzMZJr8
Red Pandas in Pu’er:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukX1UR6cKz8
The World’s Largest Building (in Chengdu):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXjMN0aTuo8
The Gayest City in China…Chengdu:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ZM6emCnKt4g
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:00 – Welcome to Chengdu (成都), China’s 4th Largest City
01:50 – Fun Facts About Chengdu (成都小知识)
03:47 – Dan Dan Noodles (担担面) for Lunch in Chengdu
07:00 – Arriving at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
08:50 – Searching for Pandas (寻找大熊猫!)
14:25 – Back to Chengdu City for a Spicy Sichuan Dinner (回城吃川菜!)
17:38 – More Sichuan Cuisine… Breakfast Edition! (早餐也能辣!)
18:49 – Taking the High-Speed Train to Leshan (高铁前往乐山)
20:13 – Visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha (乐山大佛), World’s Tallest Rock Buddha
23:28 – Inside the New Century Global Center (新世纪环球中心)
24:38 – Gay Nightlife in Chengdu 🌈 (成都同志夜生活)
24:55 – Goodbye Chengdu (再见成都!)
────────────────
✨ We’re documenting every part of our China journey...and next stop: Chongqing (重庆).
Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/
────────────────
GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💗
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):
🏡 The hotel we stayed in Chengdu:
Chupin Hotel - https://trip.tpo.li/GVRXNr1y
☸️ Leshan GetYourGuide Tour
https://getyourguide.tpo.li/Uf4o3Ruz
🚞 Trains to Leshan or Chengdu
https://trip.tpo.li/AIw5AZDb
🗻 Emei shan
https://trip.tpo.li/rFkV9QQL
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
#ChengduTravel #ChinaVlog #PandaBaseChengdu #SichuanFood #LeshanGiantBuddha

2 Days in CHENGDU | Pandas, Buddha & Epic Sichuan Food 🇨🇳

In this episode of our China series, we take a day trip from Shangri-La to Potatson National Park, China’s first park built to global ecological standards.

💙 RECOMMENDED PLACES TO STAY
12:07 - Premium 7天优品: https://go.stay22.com/0uM4w5MLUy

We went by local bus and spent the whole day exploring its pristine forests, mirror-like lakes, and rare wetlands, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive snub-nosed monkey 🐒. While we didn’t spot one, we did find incredible biodiversity.
Potatso is a UNESCO-level eco-park, part of the Three Parallel Rivers protected area, and one of China’s most beautiful — yet little-known — natural treasures.
NEXT WEEK: our final stop in Yunnan — Dali!
📝 Note: We’re travelers who love to learn — not experts or sponsored voices. We share what we see and feel, with curiosity and respect. Feel free to share your thoughts or add info in the comments!
────────────────
🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
Shangri-La Part 1: Must-sees including Songzanlin Monastery 🏔️
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5qTaK7vbgo
New Orleans Marsh (Spanish moss scene reference) 🍄‍🟫
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8dWAf_3qmQ
Tiger Leaping Gorge: Yak with a view 🐃
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_8nSrK-zMo
Jade Drogon Snow Mountain: The definitive Chinese's Excursion ☀️
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XV5jaD0sZmE
Dali — one of the most visited cities in China. Discover why! 🕶️
👉 • COMING SOON
Follow our full China Playlist here 🇨🇳📺 :
👉 • https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI&feature=shared 
────────────────
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:38 | Starting our Potatso excursion 🚶‍♂️
03:06 | Discovering Shudu Lake 🌄
06:04 | Biodiversity & the elusive snub-nosed monkey 🐒
10:34 | Bita Lake – The Pearl of the Plateau 💎
11:28 | Eco-tourism done right 🌿
12:54 | Peaceful reflections by the lake 🪞
14:44 | Getting to Potatso – Logistics & tips 🚌
────────────────
📝 We’re documenting every part of our China journey to show you...
🌐 More stories & guides on our blog:
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
📸 Daily adventures:
Instagram: /thefabryk
────────────────
🙏 Thanks for watching! If you enjoy our content, please consider supporting us on Patreon or through the links below (at no extra cost to you):
💗 GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/
🏡 The Tibetan-style guesthouse we stayed in:
Deyang Mansion: https://trip.tpo.li/aFdEEvib
✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP
🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk
🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/
🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc
🗣️ Want to improve your English like Fabio?
Boldvoice - https://start.boldvoice.com/YMIWUH?d=R10&z=1
#PotatsoPark #ChinaTravelVlog #HiddenChina #TibetanPlateau #EcoTourism #YunnanNature #SlowTravel #ExploreChina #Potatson #Nationalpark

China’s First National Park: Eco-Friendly Potatso 🇨🇳

I don’t think we had ever experienced a city of such scale until we arrived in Chongqing (重庆), China. That first night, walking along the Yangtze River (长江) and peering into the distance at the massive bridges (桥梁) with trains flying by and the enormous illuminated buildings behind them, we realized we had landed on a city that felt from another planet.

In this video, you’ll join us as we wander up and down the endless hills of China’s mega-city, try the famous Chongqing hotpot (重庆火锅) and almost regret it (not to mention what happened the next morning), explore bustling pedestrian streets filled with local shops and street food, take the cable car over the Jialing River (嘉陵江), and finally enjoy a night cruise to wrap everything up.

Chongqing is known for its unique mountainous city layout, skyscrapers (摩天大楼), nightlife (夜生活), and delicious Sichuan cuisine (四川菜). Whether it’s walking through the Ci Qi Kou ancient town (磁器口古镇), experiencing the Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头), or enjoying panoramic views from Nanshan (南山), Chongqing truly feels like a city unlike anywhere else in the world.

Note: We mention that it’s the biggest city, and by that, we mean biggest city proper. Chongqing spans an area bigger than Austria, yet it is all considered one city, making it technically one of the most populous cities in the world.

Another note: Chongqing is called the 'Foggy City', and while we experienced a bit of natural fog, the majority of what we experienced on the days we were there was smog (the AQI hit 450). Sorry if we sound negative in the video, but we don't like sugar coating things. 

Some posts about Chongqing on our blog: https://thefabryk.com/blog/gay-chongqing-china-guide

────────────────

🎥 Videos Mentioned in This Episode:
All our China videos in one playlist 🏞️:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Hotpot in Shangri-La with yak meat 🐂:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GipLRCrkO8
Hotpot at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain ❄️:
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XV5jaD0sZmE
Stinky tofu in Malacca’s Main Street market 😋:
👉 • https://youtu.be/w2Tnx8ATshw
Japan by rail (JR Pass) — we couldn’t stop in Dotonbori, Osaka 🍜:
👉 • https://youtu.be/ClhQy_5udKA
One month near Naples — dense living, architecture & more 🏛️:
👉 • https://youtu.be/h4WgVzOJuq4
Can You Handle Chongqing’s Craziest Gay Club?
👉 • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ctjw0tdqJy4&t=2s
Cyberpunk China in Chongqing 🌆 :
👉 • COMING SOON

────────────────

⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:10 – Introduction: Chongqing, a megacity of 32 million people 🏙️
01:06 – Our hotel in Jiefangbei (central area) 🛎️
02:30 – Walking through the skyline at night 🌃
03:54 – Pipa Youn: the biggest hot pot restaurant in Chongqing 🍲
04:14 – We try Chongqing’s famous spicy hot pot 🌶️
12:26 – Chongqing - The 'Foggy' City 🌫️
13:20 – How to take the Yangtze River ropeway and book a cruise 🚡
15:44 – Crossing the Yangtze on the ropeway 🌉
16:50 – “Hello from the other side” — arrival across the river 👋
18:42 – The twin bridges and Chongqing’s fascinating city layers 🏗️
22:02 – Night cruise on the Yangtze 🚢
23:18 – Hongya Cave and the nightlife scene 🎇

────────────────

✨ We’re documenting every part of our China journey...and we have one more video in Chongqing (重庆).

Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
More China Videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQicIMb8HUwOj7FGUQNjJbuDJnxYgyoDI
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

────────────────

GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE 💗
Love our content as much as we love making it? We're passionate about what we do, but it's not yet sustainable. You can help us keep creating by supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thefabryk/

And support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):

🏡 The hotel we stayed in Chongqing:
Xuan xuan & Chen chen river-view theme homestay - https://trip.tpo.li/cXBANmaX

🚢 Yangtze Night Cruise
https://trip.tpo.li/SQhnQ17q

🚞 Cable Car over Jialing River (highly suggest booking this in advance)
https://trip.tpo.li/xyIMc4Pw

♨️ Ronghui Hotspring (not mentioned in video, but the amazing place we went at the end of our trip before our flight home)
https://trip.tpo.li/rFkV9QQL

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
Trip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP

🩺 Travel Insurance:
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk

🎵 Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/

🎧 Music in this video:
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc

#ChongqingTravel #ChinaAdventure #ChongqingHotpot #YangtzeRiverCruise #MountainCityChina #ChinaTravel #ChinaVlog

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