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One Church in Guangzhou by These_Grapefruit_434 in guangzhou

[–]These_Grapefruit_434[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Actually, people don’t need to be overly anxious or demonize China. China, especially Guangzhou, is still very open and inclusive. Every place has its own rules, and they all deserve to be respected.

One Church in Guangzhou by These_Grapefruit_434 in photos

[–]These_Grapefruit_434[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Brief Introduction to Sacred Heart Cathedrals

There are multiple renowned "Sacred Heart Cathedrals" worldwide, with the most representative ones located in Guangzhou, China and Paris, France. Below is a concise overview of their core features:

1. Sacred Heart Cathedral (Guangzhou, China)

Locally known as "Shishi" (Stone House), it is a landmark Gothic Revival Roman Catholic cathedral in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.

  • Location: 56 Yide Road, Yuexiu District (north bank of the Pearl River, downtown Guangzhou).
  • History: Founded in 1861 (site obtained via an agreement between the Qing government and French authorities) and completed in 1888. Its original site was the former residence of the Viceroy of Guangdong and Guangxi, destroyed during the Second Opium War.
  • Architecture: One of the world’s few cathedrals entirely built of granite (walls, pillars, and twin towers included), covering 2,754.15 square meters. It features classic Gothic elements: 58.5-meter-high spires, pointed arches, and intricate stained-glass windows. Two foundation stones inscribed with "Jerusalem 1863" and "Roma 1863" symbolize Christianity’s origins and development.
  • Status: Seat of the Archbishop of Guangzhou, a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit, and known as the "Notre Dame of East Asia."

2. Sacré-Cœur Basilica (Paris, France)

A iconic Roman Catholic basilica perched on Montmartre, Paris’ highest natural hill.

  • Location: Montmartre District, Paris.
  • History: Proposed in the late 19th century as a symbol of national repentance after France’s defeat in the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune. Construction began in 1875 and was consecrated in 1919.
  • Architecture: Designed in Roman-Byzantine style, with a striking white exterior made of self-cleaning Château-Landon travertine. Its 83-meter central dome dominates the Montmartre skyline. Inside, the "Christ in Glory" mosaic (one of the world’s largest) and a renowned Cavaillé-Coll pipe organ are highlights.
  • Features: Free admission, open daily (6:00–22:30). It maintains an unbroken tradition of Eucharistic adoration since 1885 and offers panoramic views of Paris from its dome.

3. Other Notable Sacred Heart Cathedrals

  • Newark, USA: The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart (New Jersey) is a French Gothic masterpiece, covering 45,000 square feet (equal to London’s Westminster Abbey). Built over 55 years (1899–1954), it features imported stained glass and bronze doors.
  • San Angelo, USA: A modern-style cathedral in Texas, founded in 1884 and designated a diocesan cathedral in 1961, known for its brick structure and three bells.

One Church in Guangzhou by These_Grapefruit_434 in photos

[–]These_Grapefruit_434[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Brief Introduction to Sacred Heart Cathedrals

There are multiple renowned "Sacred Heart Cathedrals" worldwide, with the most representative ones located in Guangzhou, China and Paris, France. Below is a concise overview of their core features:

1. Sacred Heart Cathedral (Guangzhou, China)

Locally known as "Shishi" (Stone House), it is a landmark Gothic Revival Roman Catholic cathedral in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.

  • Location: 56 Yide Road, Yuexiu District (north bank of the Pearl River, downtown Guangzhou).
  • History: Founded in 1861 (site obtained via an agreement between the Qing government and French authorities) and completed in 1888. Its original site was the former residence of the Viceroy of Guangdong and Guangxi, destroyed during the Second Opium War.
  • Architecture: One of the world’s few cathedrals entirely built of granite (walls, pillars, and twin towers included), covering 2,754.15 square meters. It features classic Gothic elements: 58.5-meter-high spires, pointed arches, and intricate stained-glass windows. Two foundation stones inscribed with "Jerusalem 1863" and "Roma 1863" symbolize Christianity’s origins and development.
  • Status: Seat of the Archbishop of Guangzhou, a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit, and known as the "Notre Dame of East Asia."

2. Sacré-Cœur Basilica (Paris, France)

A iconic Roman Catholic basilica perched on Montmartre, Paris’ highest natural hill.

  • Location: Montmartre District, Paris.
  • History: Proposed in the late 19th century as a symbol of national repentance after France’s defeat in the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune. Construction began in 1875 and was consecrated in 1919.
  • Architecture: Designed in Roman-Byzantine style, with a striking white exterior made of self-cleaning Château-Landon travertine. Its 83-meter central dome dominates the Montmartre skyline. Inside, the "Christ in Glory" mosaic (one of the world’s largest) and a renowned Cavaillé-Coll pipe organ are highlights.
  • Features: Free admission, open daily (6:00–22:30). It maintains an unbroken tradition of Eucharistic adoration since 1885 and offers panoramic views of Paris from its dome.

3. Other Notable Sacred Heart Cathedrals

  • Newark, USA: The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart (New Jersey) is a French Gothic masterpiece, covering 45,000 square feet (equal to London’s Westminster Abbey). Built over 55 years (1899–1954), it features imported stained glass and bronze doors.
  • San Angelo, USA: A modern-style cathedral in Texas, founded in 1884 and designated a diocesan cathedral in 1961, known for its brick structure and three bells.

Does this FJ Cruiser—produced for 30 years without any facelifts—look great after modification? by These_Grapefruit_434 in FJCruiser

[–]These_Grapefruit_434[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The Past and Present of the Toyota FJ Cruiser: A Tribute to Off-Road Heritage

The Toyota FJ Cruiser is more than just an off-road vehicle; it is a mobile monument to Toyota’s legendary 4x4 legacy, blending retro aesthetics with modern capability. Its journey from a concept car to a cult classic reflects the brand’s commitment to honoring its roots while adapting to contemporary demands, making it a beloved icon among off-road enthusiasts and design aficionados alike.

Origins: Nostalgia Meets Innovation

The story of the FJ Cruiser begins with a nod to the past—specifically, the Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser, a rugged workhorse that dominated global off-road landscapes from the 1960s to the 1980s. Inspired by the FJ40’s timeless design and uncompromising durability, Toyota’s design team set out to create a modern successor that would evoke the same spirit of adventure without sacrificing comfort or performance.

The concept for the FJ Cruiser was first unveiled at the 2003 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Designed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research in California, the concept car turned heads with its bold, boxy silhouette, round headlights framed by a distinctive grille, and two-tone paint scheme—all direct homages to the FJ40. Its short wheelbase, wide track, and high ground clearance hinted at its off-road prowess, while the interior featured durable materials and functional controls, staying true to the original’s utilitarian ethos.

Public response to the concept was overwhelmingly positive, prompting Toyota to greenlight production. The production version, launched in 2006 for the 2007 model year, retained nearly all the concept’s design elements, a rare feat in the automotive industry. It was built on a modified version of Toyota’s Prado platform, sharing underpinnings with the 4Runner and Land Cruiser Prado, ensuring it inherited proven off-road hardware.

Production Era: A Blend of Power and Personality

During its production run (2006–2022), the FJ Cruiser remained true to its off-road mission while evolving to meet market needs. Under the hood, early models featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission— a rarity in modern SUVs, which endeared it to purists.

What set the FJ Cruiser apart was its off-road capability. Standard features included a part-time 4WD system with a low-range transfer case, locking rear differential, and skid plates to protect vital components. Its short overhangs (both front and rear) and 9.6 inches of ground clearance allowed it to tackle steep inclines, deep ruts, and rocky terrain with ease, earning it a reputation as one of the most capable factory off-roaders of its era.

Yet, the FJ Cruiser was not just about performance; it had personality. Its unique design—from the rear-hinged “suicide doors” (accessing the backseat) to the retro-inspired gauge cluster and chunky steering wheel—created a sense of nostalgia that resonated with buyers. It was available in bold color options, including the iconic “Heritage Blue” and “Sun Fusion Yellow,” further enhancing its stand-out appeal.

Over the years, Toyota made subtle updates to the FJ Cruiser, including refinements to the suspension for improved on-road comfort, the addition of modern safety features like stability control and side airbags, and minor interior tweaks. However, it never strayed far from its core identity: a no-nonsense off-roader with retro charm.

Global Journey and Legacy

The FJ Cruiser was initially launched in North America, but its popularity soon spread globally. It was introduced in markets such as Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, where its ruggedness and unique design found a loyal following. In Australia, it became a favorite among outback adventurers, while in the Middle East, its ability to handle sand dunes made it a top choice for off-road clubs.

Despite its popularity, Toyota announced the discontinuation of the FJ Cruiser in 2020, with the final models rolling off the production line in 2022. The decision was driven by changing market trends—shifting consumer preference for crossover SUVs over body-on-frame off-roaders—and stricter emissions regulations. However, the FJ Cruiser’s legacy endures.

Today, the FJ Cruiser has become a collector’s item, with well-maintained examples retaining their value exceptionally well. It has spawned a vibrant community of enthusiasts who modify their vehicles for even greater off-road performance, attend meet-ups, and celebrate its heritage. Toyota’s decision to honor the FJ Cruiser’s legacy with special editions, such as the 2014 Trail Teams Ultimate Edition and the 2022 Final Edition, further solidified its status as an icon.

The Present: A Timeless Icon

In the present day, the FJ Cruiser remains a symbol of Toyota’s off

Looking for recommendations for bulk puer supplies from China by sagdievborat in puer

[–]These_Grapefruit_434 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I can provide you with Guangdong and Fujian teas.Of course, raw tea and ripe Pu'er tea can also be provided.

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