Shenyang 

A look beyond the ancient city, and you will discover a new world of skyscrapers and modern buildings. However, that鈥檚 not to say that there are ancient buildings scattered amongst them.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Cathedral is the most well known church in Shenyang. I luckily came in time for a wedding. Walking through this church, you will be amazed by the glass pane windows and gothic style. Antiquity does not mean that it is no longer used. For instance, many weddings are still held. At the end of the ceremony, the lights go out and we witness the end of the day.

The beginning of a new day and I coincidentally found the essence of local life. You may think this is a music band, but these residents gather here just for pure interest. Their free performance brings together musical instruments, local opera, and folk dances. All this music makes me excited鈥h, why not. I鈥檒l join in too.

But I got a few tricks under my sleeve as well as I got to show off a few of my moves as well. Seeing their bright, smiling faces reminds me of why I love traveling鈥it鈥檚 seeing new people and gaining insight into some corner of their lives.

More exercise is planned for my day, as went for a ride on magic slope. Why, do you wonder is it called Magic? Let鈥檚 see if you can figure that out yourself.

Welcome to Magic Slope. When you go down the slope, you have to pedal real hard, but up the slope is a breeze. You might not be able to experience this, but I鈥檒l show you a little trick that you鈥檒l find amazing.

Catch! But that鈥檚 not the trick. See what happens when I roll this ball down the slope. Abra Cadabra!

Gravity gone wrong? Optical illusion? The truth is that it can鈥檛 be explained. Everyone has their own interpretation. Maybe you can figure it out.

Trendy people, boutique shops, and delicious snacks makes the pedestrians only Central Street the place to go for excitement and stimulation.

Are you ready to party? This is the most happening place in town. Central Street has been the center of commercial activity since the 17th century. Even today, there are plenty of people here to buy foods, clothes, everything. Let鈥檚 shop!

If rather you would like to opt for a quiet place, located near Central Street is Chang An Temple, the oldest existing temple in Shenyang. The saying is, 鈥淔irst there was Chang an Temple, then the city of Shenyang.鈥

Entrance into this temple is free, and there is a stunning contrast between the serenity of the temple, and the hustle and bustle of modern life. An excellent place to find stillness and peace of mind, in the backdrop of Shenyang city. Only the sound of rising smoke can be heard in the distance.