Zhu Hai, Bus Tour of the City - 3

The art of mask magic. He changes his mask so quickly you don't see any movement. Years ago we saw a foreign film called The King of Masks about an elderly man that wants to pass on his skill to a son, only he doesn't have a son so he adopts a street urchin.


If you were to film this and look at it frame by frame, would you see him change his mask?


Many old pictures were displayed including this postcard of a Chinese woman with her baby.


This Chinese mother moved the strap down to better see her sleeping baby who didn't want to be disturbed. Hard to improve something that works so well.


If you don't care for history, skip this. History of the Plaque traced back to the Qin and Han Dynasties (abt 200 B.C.). Plaques are seen in palaces, residences of nobilities, fortresses, mausoleums, gardens and scenic places, shrines and temples as well as galleries and studies. They were engraved and hung to represent the function, commendation or activity of the place. It is a unique cultural and artistic style of the Chinese culture.

Historically, most of the important events were documented and propagated by plaques. Ceremony of plaque hanging would be held in recognition of one's patriotic or heroic deeds, in commemoration of a woman's chastity, or in praise of one's academic advancement. In Qing Dynasty, plaques were hung in Dacheng Hall of the Confucius Temple to narrate the emperors' ambition when they ascended the throne. In this way, many plaques have a glorious past. It reflects a collective memory on Chinese social history and the times, and thus became the windows of the soul of traditional Chinese architectures.

Inscriptions on plaques are generally written by renowned calligraphists and philosophers. The meaning is succinct, dignified and profound in implication, possessing strong artistic appeal and providing profound enlightenment. They are often authentic works b y great scholars or masters of calligraphy. The few words written are more condensed and inclusive than poetry. A collection of plaques and epigraphs is no less than a collection of works by historical figures and famous calligraphists. Viewing these works easily arouses one's imagination for past events, and the personalities and artistic characteristics of the authors.

As written inside the hall where these historical plaques are displayed.


These are miniature replications of famous arches. A photo of the original hangs on the wall behind each one.


Outdoor furniture to enjoy your lunch and snacks.


We have a friend who takes pictures of EVERYTHING! Including a trash can. So I thought I wonder if I can take a trash can and make a nice picture of it so it would be pleasing to the eye. I took a larger picture, including area around the can so I could later crop it. Made sure I had the lines of the hedge bush where I wanted them.


Cropped, included a little more contrast. It is now waiting for someone to pick up the little soccer ball and earn two points slam dunking it into the trash can. Yes, I can mix the two games....