Busy Saturday. I delivered meals for the homeless and then ran 10k back to my apartment before leaving on a weekend trip within the province near Qingyuan.
We arrived at the site for Drifting. It flows on an underground river through 5 mountains and villages. The caves are impressive and it was a lot of fun. I tried to take some videos with my go pro.
We then headed to an ancient village. Yao Minority is one of the oldest ethnic groups in China dating back 1000 years in the Song Dynasty. It is the best preserved ancient village in China. The village is built in the mountains and many steps go up and down and around.
The village is so peaceful and remote.
They are rebuilding many homes that have burned or fallen to ruin. The government has helped them preserve their way of life and to attract visitors by updating rooms for people to stay.
Water runs through the village from the mountains.
Villagers still live in small dwellings that hold just a bed.
A village official near the temple.
Temple.
Sticky rice wine is the local alcohol drink. It was pretty tasty.
Watching dinner being cooked was amazing. High heat cooking over a wok was quick and the smoky flavor and smells was wonderful.
Sunrise.
Breakfast.
Homemade tofu and soy milk with a hand turned mill and a large vat to squeeze the milk out.
Morning walk after breakfast.
We then headed to Jinzi Mountain.
The peak is 1417 meters above sea level, Jinzi Mountain is the 8th highest peak in the province and had a set of stairs that have an 80 degree incline. It is relatively remote and having less tourists made it a great time hiking.
It was a great and tiring weekend. I am always excited about spending time in a village and being in nature and less crowded places!