Martin Yan's Hidden China
Series Description: In Martin Yan's Hidden China, the famed international chef and television host journeys deep into beautiful and mystical Yunnan and nearby regions. Traveling by car and bus, on bicycles and, at times, the back of a trusty yak, Martin retraces part of the ancient Silk Road journey. He follows its twists and turns, making his way to small historical enclaves and cultural outposts. Along the way, he meets scores of local people - minority tribe members who are generous with their stories, as well as their recipes. The insightful cultural and culinary vignettes in the 13 episodes of Martin Yan's Hidden China are the result of Martin's vision, persistence and unique connections within China. Public television viewers will now be able to see a rarely seen side of China - the Song Zanlin Temple, the spectacular Tibetan monastery in Shangri-la; rugged horse trails, where for centuries the precious cargo on horseback has been tea; the Li River where fisherman use cormorants, and much more. Join Martin on the shores of picturesque Lugu Lake, where he encounters the exotic Musuo society and their unique matriarchal communal structure. In Lijiang, he walks the streets of a town that time seems to have forgotten. In Yangshuo, he visits an old Dutch friend and experiences first-hand the life of a Westerner in a rural Chinese setting. In Shangri-la, he discovers peace of mind and spiritual awakening, inspired both by a Tibetan monastery and the surrounding, majestic, snow-capped mountains. Always eager to participate in the daily routines of his hosts, Martin keeps his hands busy by harvesting Pu-erh tea leaves at a tea plantation. In Kunming, he joins in a hunting expedition in stalking down...mushrooms! And everywhere he goes, Martin delights his hosts by rolling up his sleeves and helping to create and savor favorite local dishes.
All Episodes
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Ancient Lijiang - A Journey Through Time (#101)
In the town of Lijiang, Martin tries breakfast dishes and witnesses memorial rituals at a funeral. [26 minutes]
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Kunming - The Gateway to Eternal Spring (#102)
Martin explores colorful flower markets, Dianchi Lake and the Yunnan Nationalities Village. [26 minutes]
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A Rock Legend (#103)
TBA [26 minutes]
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The Wind and Water of Quilin (#104)
TBA [26 minutes]
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Yangshuo - The Hidden Gem (#105)
Martin lends a hand cooking at a cozy bed and breakfast hotel in the quaint enclave of Yangshuo. [26 minutes]
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For All the Teas in Western China (#106)
Martin visits the Pu-erh tea region and gains some 'hands-on' experience at the tea plantations. [26 minutes]
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Yunnan - South of the Clouds (#107)
Martin learns the secrets of local winemaking and explores Yunnan's streets to taste some snacks. [26 minutes]
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Mythical Shangri-La (#108)
Martin explores Song Zanlin Temple and a Tibetan banquet in this remote corner of Western China. [26 minutes]
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A Day in Delightful Dali (#109)
Martin tours the town square and the Three Pagodas, a landmark that traces back to the Tang Dynasty. [26 minutes]
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The Ladies of Lugu Lake (#110)
A land where women rule is an everyday reality in the Musuo villages surrounding Lugu Lake. [26 minutes]
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Exploring The Naxi Culture (#111)
Martin visits with the gentle Naxi people in picturesque Shuhe, China's most ancient village. [26 minutes]
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Life In Shangri-La (#112)
Martin visits arts and craft shops and joins local farmers as they harvest crops. [26 minutes]
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A Cultural Mosaic of Southwestern China (#113)
Martin discovers Bai dancers in Dali and Black Clay Pottery in the mountain retreat of Shangri-la. [26 minutes]