I have visited China on three previous occasions, and on each visit, I have spent the bulk of my time in Beijing. So the Real Time China Tour has presented me with exactly what I've been wishing for - a unique opportunity to discover new places, landscapes and stories in this vast and fascinating country.
The first stop is Yangliuqing.
If Beijing represents China's march towards the future, then Yangliuqing represents the country's roots and deep connection to a very proud past. Just an hour-and-a-half from the country's capital, Yangliuqing is an old market town on the outskirts of Tianjin.
Visitors look at exhibitions in Yangliuqing Folk Culture Museum in Yangliuqing, Tianjin, October 26, 2018. /VCG Photo
When we arrived I was immediately charmed by the town's Ancient Town Scenic Area. Situated right along The Grand Canal, the scenic area is a large tourism hub designed in the style of an ancient grand village. Many of the original old town relics have been restored including some ancient homes and royal courtyards, reflecting 14th-century Chinese architecture.
Yangliuqing's most significant attraction, however, is Chinese folk art. Though it is a relatively small town, Yangliuqing is famous across the country for its productions of Nianhua, or Chinese New Year Paintings.
A sixth-generation craftsman of Nianhua shows his piece. /CGTN Photo
Nianhua is a prevalent custom in China, where families place special paintings on their doors, walls or windows to welcome the new year. The paintings are produced by engraving pictures on pieces of wood and printing the image onto rice paper. Then the image is carefully hand painted. Nianhua paintings are loved for their beauty but also their symbolism. The most common painting shows a baby holding a fish and a lotus flower, representing happiness and continuing prosperity.
A popular pattern of Nianhua showing a baby holding a fish and a lotus flower is seen in Yangliuqing, Tianjin, July 22, 2011. /VCG Photo
Throughout my day in Yangliuqing, I noticed this image depicted in many places. We visited the New Year Painting Museum where we met a sixth generation craftsman who showed us how the paintings are produced. He even gave me a chance to make a print from the engraved wood. And again it was the iconic child, fish and lotus flower.
I will also always remember Yangliuqing for the weather. The first drops of snow started to fall shortly before my first live crossing. But even the frigid air could not diminish the warmth of this very special small town.
(Top Photo: People dressed in festive costumes perform on the street in Yangliuqing at the outskirt of Tianjin, China. /VCG Photo)