| Looking for a small town lifestyle while still having the accessibility of a modern metropolis? Look no further than Pulandian, a suburb of Dalian, China. Pulandian offers the adventurous the quiet, classical lifestyle that most big cities simply can’t provide. The town bustles with outdoor markets where local farmers sell their produce, including Pulandian apples famous throughout China as well as the hearty vegetables that define the Northeastern/Manchurian cuisine that, along with the magnificent landscape and tranquil lotus pounds, serves as the quiet backdrop for the area.
The local food, considered to be some of the finest in China’s Northeast, is best described as large portions of meat and root vegetables, with down to earth savory flavors. Eschewing rice and noodles, the locals suppliment their meals with bing (thick pancake style fried bread) and jiaozi (dumplings filled with a variety of meat, vegetables and eggs). This satisfying yet simple cuisine is just one aspect of the more traditional culture that persists in Pulandian, but the traditional Chinese way of life in Pulandian is not only represented by food. For those interested in exploring the traditional arts of China there is a lot of see and do in Pulandian. Beginning in the early morning older folks quietly make their ways to the town’s myriad of parks to start their day with t’ai-ch’i. The town is also home to many kung-fu and dance schools, giving all who live there an opportunity to truly observe many traditional Chinese artforms that would be a rare sight in much larger cities. For those too timid to partake in these activities but who still want to see some of China’s ancient past, Pulandian’s Wugu cheng is home to many Daoist and Buddhist temples from the classical period as well as some of the best views in the country from the tops of Pulandian’s many mountains. All this and the proximity of Dalian’s city center enabling a quick furlough back to the hustle and bustle of the city when the mood strikes for modernity. Transportation from Pulandian to Dalian and back again is quick and convenient. Trains and buses leave regularly from their respective stations and easily traverse the mere forty-two miles to the city, as well as offering convenient travel to other parts of the province. Pulandian’s position makes it the perfect marriage of the classical lifestyle and modernity. Welcome to Pulandian. Contact Jon Wiggins for more information at jwiggins@astonschool.com. Applicants may apply and speed up the application process by emailing a cover letter, resume, college and TEFL/TESOL certificate, recent photo and passport information page. Please include any questions you may have at that time. |
