We arrived in Kunming the city of Eternal Spring around 10:30 AM. The city was abundant with foliage and flowers

We were met by our wonderful friend Dr. Wu and new friend Gu Fang who will be our guides while we are in Kunming.

We had lunch at Qian Xiang Yuan, "New World Public Square for
Delicious Food and Entertainment of Kunming". We had Crossing Bridge Rice Noodles; Gu Fang shows Harrison preparation tips.

After lunch we visited the Yuan Tong Buddhist Temple.


Charlie vibrates the singing bowl, while Abigail prepares to give
it a try. Both were successful.

The monks chanted during a walking prayer

Ms. Skawski-Pride writes today:
Today was a travel day from Beijing to Kunming. Upon arrival in the “City of Eternal Spring” we went out to lunch at the New World Restaurant and were treated to a dish called “Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles”. We were brought bowls of boiling broth and instructed by our guide, Farah, to add a mix of meats and vegetables to the steaming liquid. It took several minutes for the meats and vegetables to cook before stark white rice noodles were added to the spicy mixture. At first it was difficult for me to grab the noodles with my chopsticks, but it did not take long to master the task. The meal was absolutely delicious! In addition to the sumptuous repast, we were entertained by Minority performers singing and dancing traditional pieces on a stage right next to the table. What a treat to hear the songs and see their vibrant costumes as they shared their culture with us.

After lunch we explored the Yuan Tong Hall of Mahavira, a Buddhist temple in downtown Kunming. This was an intense afternoon. While there, I was able to witness the monks in worship. The sound of chanting and drumming along with bells and chimes reverberated from the temple where the monks were in worship. I had goose bumps as I listened and wondered about the song being carried away in the wind. I wanted to laugh and cry at the same time my whole body became attuned to the rhythm of the song and the sweet incense hanging in the warm afternoon air. I watched the monks file out of the temple, their robes muted yellows, oranges, and browns. Although it was very hot, they were totally focused on the task at hand. They were aware of us, yet impervious as they partook in their own rituals. They continued to walk and chant, leaving a sense of serenity in their wake. I could feel my taut muscles relax as if order had been restored to the earth.

At the Restaurant we were treated to a show of minority dancers, singers and musicians.

Ms. Simpson, TVHS teacher and AACE travel photographer, enjoying the Temple gardens.

A view inside the largest temple in the complex


Maygan has a contemplative moment at the Temple