China reflections

WeiHai is located on an eastern peninsula of China, only 50 minutes by air from Korea.  Winter may not be the best time to visit but it does have its interests.  Wearing layers of clothes kept me very comfortable although the wind off the Yellow Sea was a challenge at times.
My observations are these:
I was surprised at the friendliness of the people.  I did not expect "mean" people, but I not expect the smiles and bows I received from strangers.  I expected to be mostly ignored.  A hotel cleaning lady who wore traditional Chinese clothing was always smiling and bowing to me.  It was a real treat to see her daily in the foyer mopping and cleaning the floors.  Her expressions told me I was very welcome.
The food was delicious and I liked it more than Korean food.  It had its own flavor and was not just "hot" spicy like Korean food can be.  One evening LiPing and I bought some Ramon noodles at the market and ate in my room.  The noodles were much tastier than the Korean noodles.  Buses were very crowded and my guide thought more dangerous for me with pick pockets, etc.,  although I felt very safe in China. 
The Chinese are a proud people like all of us.  They are proud of their heritage and their country.  Visiting Liugong Island was a cultural experience.  It was here the Chinese attempted to defend themselves from the Japanese navy invasion of 1894.  I was surprised that the plaques, in English, admitted to their losing that war.  I was also surprised that so much was in English since WeiHai is not on the tourist map for Americans.  I was a novelty in town.  Most foreigners go to Beijing and other bigger cities. I endured many stares!
I was also impressed with their "god of the sea" temples.  They seemed to be everywhere.  I took a picture and labeled it Buddha but it may be the Sea god perched high on the moutain looking over the bay.  It reminded me of the Christ statue overlooking Rio DeJaneiro. 
For those of you wanting pictures send a request for them on the comment section of this blog. I would go back and visit again.  It was a great trip.  I may have more reflections later.