Live Your Best Lives
When you think of Russia, what comes to mind? Is it the legendary warrior nation, with its sturdy physique and naturally bold character? Is it the world's largest country, spanning two continents, Asia and Europe? Or is it the birthplace of the graceful ballet "Swan Lake" and countless literary giants?
These are all Russia, but Russia's labels extend far beyond these. There's also the world of ice and snow, Lake Baikal, vodka, nesting dolls, and black bread... Despite these labels, Russia's beauty is unconventional and unrestricted. This year, I personally traveled to Russia and enjoyed a dual-city tour of St. Petersburg and Moscow. I highly recommend everyone to explore this treasured neighboring country.
When I first started researching Russia, I also found some negative news online about it, such as poor public security, many thieves, drunks and homeless people on the streets, and the rapid removal of DSLR lenses. However, in my personal experience, I didn't encounter any unpleasant things, nor did I see any theft or fraud.
However, safety is paramount when traveling abroad, especially when it comes to personal and property safety! Combining tips from fellow international students and my own personal experiences, I've compiled a list of safety tips. I hope everyone enjoys a safe and happy trip.
Tips:
1. Overall, Moscow is slightly safer than St. Petersburg. Regarding communication, English is more widely spoken in Moscow, while people in St. Petersburg barely speak English, making communication difficult.
2. There are many thieves in St. Petersburg, mainly concentrated near the Kazan Cathedral and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, which is near Nevsky Prospect. There are many people here, so it is recommended to carry your bag in front of you, and you can even use a combination lock.
3. Be especially careful in crowded places like subways, train stations, and airports! Carry your bag in front of you. Don't carry your DSLR camera on your shoulder; keep it inside your bag. Whenever possible, take public transportation. Never hail a taxi, as it's easy to get into an illegal taxi. Only use taxi apps when hailing a taxi!
4. Stay away from people wearing doll costumes. If you see them, just avoid them! They might actively hug you for photos and then charge you a high fee!
5. Don't feed any white pigeons! Don't take pictures! Regular gray pigeons are fine, but stay away from white ones! Especially when Russians are feeding white pigeons, stay away!
6. The Russian police are not very reliable. Chinese tourists are regarded as mobile ATMs. Please remember to carry your passport, entry card and insurance with you and register upon arrival. If you encounter a money-scam incident, first remember the police's work number and then call the embassy. If possible, try to obtain evidence via video.
7. You must keep your credit card safe. Credit card theft is a serious problem in Russia (cards can be taken directly without a password).
8. You will see drunkards and homeless people lying on the roadside at night or in the morning. Just stay away from them.
Most of Russia has a temperate continental climate, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. St. Petersburg is located at 60°N latitude, while Moscow is at 55°N. Located at the mouth of the Baltic Sea, St. Petersburg enjoys a humid climate influenced by the ocean, while Moscow, located inland, is relatively dry.
The average daily temperature in Russia in September is around 19°C, with St. Petersburg slightly cooler than Moscow. Both cities experience significant day-night temperature swings, and if it rains or is cloudy, the temperature can plummet, much like autumn in northern my country. Therefore, pack a denim jacket, thick pants, a sweatshirt, a thick autumn/winter skirt, a knitted sweater, a windbreaker, a fleece jacket, and a down jacket (not an exaggeration, the locals wear them too). Avoid light chiffon dresses!
In October, daytime temperatures in Russia tend to be between -3°C and 2°C, and you're likely to see the first snow. However, since most indoor heating systems are on in Russia at this time, you don't have to worry about freezing. Considering that travel often involves outdoor activities, you should pack thicker clothing than in autumn, especially after late October. Bring plenty of down jackets and warm clothes, as well as windproof scarves, hats, and gloves.
The Russian currency is the ruble, with 1 RMB currently equivalent to 13 rubles. Credit cards are accepted in most areas of St. Petersburg and Moscow, with cash only being accepted in certain markets and on the subway. If you're only visiting these two cities, exchanging a small amount of cash is sufficient.
Before traveling to a country, I like to gain a comprehensive understanding of its history, geography, and cultural characteristics, and then further explore its literature, film, music, and other aspects. This way, when I set foot in the country, I have a preliminary understanding and a strong interest in it. During the trip, I combine what I see, hear, and feel with the books and movies I have read. This will naturally answer my pre-trip questions and enhance my sense of achievement.
Recommended Russian TV series: "Catherine the Great" Seasons 1, 2, and 3 (If you don't have time, just watch the edited version. It's very good. The heroine is extremely beautiful. The plot is ups and downs, compact and attractive. Even if you don't go to Russia, it is a highly recommended drama)
Catherine the Great was a very important monarch in Russian history. She once said, "If I can live to be 200 years old, all of Europe will crawl at my feet." After watching the TV series, you can visit the Winter Palace and the Yekaterinburg Palace to feel the empress's domineering power and luxurious life.
Russian movie recommendation: "Russian Ark" (the biggest feature of this movie is: 99 minutes of one shot)
The film tells the story of a contemporary filmmaker and French diplomat who travel to an ancient palace in St. Petersburg 1,700 years ago and witness the transformations of Russia over the centuries. The film was shot at the Winter Palace, offering a glimpse into its 35 magnificent rooms.
Russian music recommendation: Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" (this piece is played in the Military Gallery room of the Winter Palace)
Recommended Russian literature: Leo Tolstoy's "War and Peace," "Anna Karenina," and "Resurrection," Pushkin's "If Life Deceives You" and "Eugene Onegin," Chekhov's "The Chameleon," and Ostrovsky's "How the Steel Was Tempered"
Russia has many famous writers and poets. The texts I learned in childhood and the classics I read when I grew up can all be verified by my trip to Russia.
The Winter Palace has a very ornamental exterior, with mint green exterior walls, regularly arranged white columns, and gorgeous window frames and golden relief decorations.
The Winter Palace was first built between 1754 and 1762 and houses a collection of more than 3 million historical relics and works of art.
When visiting the Winter Palace, it is recommended to buy tickets in advance, which can save a lot of time; after entering, remember to rent an audio guide before starting the tour.
It is no exaggeration to say that no matter how much preparation you have made in advance, you will be amazed after entering the Winter Palace. The decoration is more luxurious than you can imagine, the area is more huge than you can imagine, the collections are more than you can imagine, and the more than 400 rooms have their own characteristics and different colors and styles.
The Jordan Staircase can be said to be the most gorgeous staircase in the world. It is a typical Baroque style. The stairs are milky white and spirally connected to the second floor. The marble material is particularly solemn and majestic. The surrounding walls echo the stairs. Reliefs wrapped in gold foil can be seen on the milky white walls. On the ceiling of the second floor is a huge oil painting painted by an Italian painter, "The Gods on Mount Olympus", which is magnificent.
The Petrovsky Hall was built by Empress Elizabeth for her father and was completed by architect Montferrand in 1833. The walls of the hall are decorated with red velvet, and four magnificent pillars stand tall in the center, which is magnificent.
Not every room in the Winter Palace is lavishly decorated. The Alexander Hall, built in honor of Alexander I, is an exception. Its walls are painted in pale blue and white, creating a refreshing and artistic atmosphere. After seeing so much extravagant and lavish decoration, this room is particularly appealing and captivating.
Looking closely, you will see that the exquisite reliefs, every detail is flawless. I kept looking up to admire them. I have to say that visiting the Winter Palace is really a good experience to treat cervical spondylosis.
In addition to admiring the exquisite dome of the room, the Alexander Hall has several display cabinets showing Western European silverware from the 17th and 18th centuries. The background of the silverware is dark blue velvet, which echoes the light and dark tones of the entire room.
The walls of the golden living room are all covered with gold foil, and the doors, windows and pillars are also gold-plated. The ceiling dome is decorated with various complex patterns with gold foil, and there are many golden crystal chandeliers hanging on it, giving people a suffocating feeling of being submerged in gold.
The Golden Peacock Clock is the famous treasure of the Winter Palace. However, the Peacock Clock, which is over 200 years old, is rarely performed now. When I went there, I could only watch the video on TV.
This was once the Tsar's lounge. The gold-plated decorations do not have such a strong sense of heaviness, but rather reveal a clear, noble, holy and elegant atmosphere.
I don’t know how many crystal chandeliers I’ve seen, but the one in this room is truly mesmerizing. It’s so crystal clear under the wondrous light.
Rembrandt is a representative painter of European Baroque art and is considered the greatest painter in Dutch history. This exhibition hall houses one of the museum's most treasured paintings, Rembrandt's "The Return of the Prodigal Son."
"The Return of the Prodigal Son" is a representative work of Rembrandt's late period. He was good at using the "light and dark" processing technique, with dark brown or light olive brown as the background, summarizing the light into beams of concentrated lines like flashlights, falling on the main part of the painting.
The Skylight Hall primarily showcases Italian and Spanish paintings and art. It comprises three exhibition halls: the Italian Skylight Hall, the Small Skylight Hall, and the Spanish Skylight Hall. The dome features a transparent skylight, providing abundant natural light throughout the hall. Gilded patterns and reliefs adorn the blue and white ceiling surrounding the skylight, while the surrounding walls, clad in red, are covered with paintings of various sizes.
This painting, the Hermitage's most iconic treasure, is one of Leonardo da Vinci's most remarkable works from the Renaissance, created in Milan in 1482. The beautiful woman in the painting symbolizes maternal love, while symmetrical windows open behind her, and the endless mountain landscape evokes a sense of the vastness and harmony of the universe.
A total of 52 biblical paintings were reproduced at both ends, on the pillars, ceiling, arches and walls of the corridor, depicting scenes such as God creating man, the creation of all things, and the creation of the world.
There are windows on the outside of the Raphael Gallery and walls decorated with numerous paintings on the inside. Surprisingly, there is a mirror decoration corresponding to the real window, which blends into the overall atmosphere and reflects yourself appreciating the paintings.
Tips:
1. The Winter Palace is very large. If you have enough time and love visiting museums and palaces, be prepared to spend a whole day there and wear comfortable shoes, otherwise you will be exhausted.
2. It is best to buy tickets online in advance. I bought mine on Taobao. There is a queue at the entrance for electronic tickets. The first group enters faster and there are fewer people. Otherwise, it is possible to queue for two hours to enter.
3. If you want to take good photos of the Winter Palace, remember to bring a wide-angle lens.
4. There are no restaurants in the Winter Palace. Cafes and places selling light meals are concentrated on the first floor, which can be found on the map.
5. It is strongly recommended to rent an audio guide (available in Chinese) and pick up a map before entering the door.
▼Direction diagram
Facing the main gate of the Winter Palace, walk to the right and continue walking without turning after passing the first iron gate.
▼Turn left through the second iron gate and you will see a small corridor with a mint green building on the left and a light yellow building on the right, as shown in the picture below.
▼There is this sign outside the iron gate
▼Walk through the iron gate and keep going forward
▼The door you see on the left is the e-ticket entrance. Go in and turn left. There is no need to exchange tickets. Just take the e-ticket saved on your phone and scan the QR code to enter the museum through the gate. It is very convenient.
The Summer Palace of St. Petersburg, also known as Peterhof and Peterhof, is located in a forest on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland, 40 kilometers northwest of St. Petersburg. It is best known for its gardens and fountains. Once the summer residence of Russian Tsar Peter the Great in the early 18th century, it is sometimes called the "Russian Versailles."
The Summer Palace is mainly divided into three parts: the Upper Garden, the Summer Palace and the Lower Garden.
After entering the Summer Palace, the first place you enter is the Upper Garden. It's not large, a square, well-formed imperial garden. A vast expanse of green, like a carpet, features neatly trimmed, low, conical trees arranged in an orderly pattern from near to far. A huge pond, dotted with sculptures of various shapes, occupies the central axis of the Upper Garden. The wind from the Gulf of Finland ruffles the lingering clouds in the distance, creating an unreal feeling like stepping into an oil painting.
The Summer Palace is located between the Upper Garden and the Lower Garden. It is a must-pass place from the Upper Garden to the Lower Garden, but you do not have to go inside and just look at the exterior. It is very similar to other palaces in St. Petersburg, with a gorgeous exterior and Baroque and Rococo decorative styles. It is exquisite, magnificent and gorgeous.
The appearance of the Summer Palace is very "summer" style, with a bright yellow theme exterior and a light blue roof, which is bright and vivid, and exudes a warm and passionate atmosphere.
After passing the Summer Palace, you'll finally arrive at the Lower Gardens. Its central axis is a man-made canal, bisecting the gardens. Symmetrical tree-lined avenues line both sides, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The central canal connects to the Grand Cascade of Step Fountains, which extends from the waterfall to the Gulf of Finland on the Baltic Sea. Be sure to pack warm clothing before visiting this area.
Walking along the canal to its end, you'll find a vast expanse of sea. This is the Baltic Sea, once considered the end of the world in the hearts of Europeans. From here, Finland is closer than Moscow, the capital. Tourists gather along the riverbank, snapping photos. A cool breeze deepens the chill.
Walk to the Summer Palace Pier and take a hovercraft back to the Winter Palace from the Gulf of Finland. There are also luxury cruise ships that cross the Baltic Sea to Finland and Sweden on the other side.
Tips:
1. Unlike the Winter Palace and the Yen Palace, you don't need to buy tickets in advance for the Summer Palace during peak season. Since most of the tickets are for tour groups, there are not many people buying tickets on site during peak season. The entrances for tour groups and individual tourists are separate, so you can go in directly without queuing.
2. The Lower Garden Musical Fountain starts at 11:00 AM. It's packed with visitors, so be sure to find the best viewing spot before you enter, or you won't even be able to get to the front. The music lasts about 15 minutes, after which the fountain will continue.
3. Since it is close to the Gulf of Finland in Northern Europe, it is a bit cold here, so be sure to prepare clothes.
The three major palaces in St. Petersburg each have their own characteristics. The mint green Winter Palace is majestic and all-encompassing, the goose yellow Summer Palace is famous for its golden statue fountain, and the Catherine Palace with its blue and white exterior and golden decorations exudes a more feminine temperament and charming charm. The full name of this palace is Catherine Palace.
To enter the palace, you need to wear shoe covers and rent a guide to begin your journey through this golden palace. The palace itself is a small, narrow space, so a leisurely stroll of just over an hour is sufficient. It's no exaggeration to say that from the moment you enter the palace until the end, your gaze is shrouded in a shimmering golden aura. It feels like being slapped in the face, buried, and crushed by gold.
The first thing that catches your eye is the reception hall, which is magnificent, splendid and full of brilliance.
In the Tuhaojin Ye Palace, I saw a blue and white porcelain fireplace. The fresh style immersed in the Baroque style was really unique. The chimney of the blue and white porcelain fireplace goes straight upwards, and it looks like a pagoda from a distance. A closer look at the blue and white porcelain patterns shows that most of them are delicate patterns and woods.
The centerpiece of the Ye Palace is the Amber Room, a treasure trove looted during World War II. Today, the Amber Room has been restored by Russian craftsmen, a project that took 25 years and cost $11 million. Unfortunately, photography is prohibited inside the room, so no images remain.
There is a special room in Ye Palace. Different from other magnificent gold rooms, it has mint green walls decorated with white reliefs and pink embellishments. It is fresh and elegant, and full of decorative details, reflecting the softness and refinement of women.
Tips: It is best to line up in front of the palace before 9 o'clock. You can take turns with your companions or the people in front and behind to visit the gardens and take photos. If you go late, you may not be able to return to the city on the same day.
St. Petersburg's attractions extend far beyond its three palaces. The city's diverse landscapes, scattered throughout, are also captivating. On my fifth day in St. Petersburg, I decided to spend the day walking through the sights, large and small, and experiencing this city, often called the "Venice of the North."
My route is as follows: Summer Garden - Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood - Peter and Paul Fortress (Rabbit Island) - St. Petersburg Mosque - St. Isaac's Cathedral - Kazan Cathedral.
The scenery along the Neva River was breathtaking. Since we arrived early, the Summer Gardens weren't open yet, so we decided to just relax by the Neva River and enjoy the breeze. The military-green bridge in the distance was magnificent, and further away, the spire towered, gleaming with golden light. That was Peter and Paul's Fortress, where we were heading that afternoon. On the riverbank, there were platforms that led down to the water, offering a close-up view of St. Petersburg's mother river. Alternatively, you could take a river cruise.
On the riverbank, people fished with rods, others simply lost in thought. Despite the busy roads and the hustle and bustle of traffic, the tranquility was unaffected. The Summer Garden opens at 10:00 AM. It's important to note that the Summer Garden and the Summer Palace are not the same scenic area. The Summer Palace is located in the suburbs of St. Petersburg and was Peter the Great's summer retreat, while the Summer Garden is located within the city.
Peter the Great personally planned the gardens, initially featuring a neatly manicured French-style formal garden. Later, hundreds of marble statues by Venetian sculptors were added to flank the paths, adding a touch of humanity and artistic value. It's said that Pushkin chose the Summer Gardens as the setting for his childhood strolls in his novel "Eugene Onegin."
It is the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, officially known as the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ. This name may be shocking when you first hear it, but it is actually related to the church's origins. It was built by Tsar Alexander III, the son of Tsar Alexander II, in memory of his father, at the site where his father was assassinated.
The entire exterior and interior of the church are made entirely of mosaics, exquisitely crafted and truly a masterpiece of art. While not as grand or as old as some churches, it's a small but beautiful church. But once you stand at its foot, you'll be struck by its magnificence. Every detail is exquisitely detailed, a feeling that can't be expressed in words; it can only be truly felt in person.
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood stands out from other Russian churches. Its original design was inspired by St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow's Red Square, and its specific design originated from a dream of the abbot. While most Russian churches are ancient and majestic, this church's diverse and colorful decorations create a stark contrast.
Click on the large picture and take a closer look at the inlaid mosaic art. It is very magical. Doesn’t it look like a church made of Lego?
If the exterior of the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is shocking, its interior is even more captivating. The mosaics, based on stories from the Old Testament, were designed and inlaid by several artists starting in 1895. With such superb craftsmanship, it is no wonder that the entire project was slow and not finally completed until 1907.
Inside the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, there is an altar, beautifully decorated with topaz, glass, and other gemstones. It is located at the exact spot where Alexander was assassinated, and is uniquely designed for memorial purposes.
Tips:
Address: 2a Griboyedovo Embankment, Saint Petersburg
Transportation: Take the subway to Nevsky Prospekt Station and then walk to
1. If you want to take photos, it is best to go in as soon as the door opens in the morning. Using a wide-angle lens, you can take panoramic photos of the church.
2. The small square in front of the church is most beautiful at sunset in the evening. Walking along the river in front of the church towards Nevsky Prospekt, there are many small shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs along the way. This route is also the most beautiful place.
3. In the evening, from the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood to Nevsky Prospekt, you can see many street bands performing, which is very lively. This is the best place to experience local art and culture, highly recommended!
The real name of Rabbit Island is Peter and Paul Fortress. Although it has such a cute nickname, it is actually a famous ancient building in St. Petersburg.
Originally built as an outpost during Russia's Northern War against Sweden, the Peter and Paul Fortress was later expanded several times to become the hexagonal fortress it is today. Some might ask, why is a fortress called Rabbit Island?
Firstly, there were originally many wild rabbits on the island, and secondly, the island looks like a rabbit when viewed from the air. Now there are many rabbit sculptures scattered around the island, each with its own unique shape and cute appearance.
The island is not big and you can visit it quickly. Before leaving, you can go to the shop. Many of the souvenirs here are exquisite paintings and ceramic statues.
Tips: There is no entrance fee to the island, only the entrance to the buildings is charged. If you are not interested, you can walk around the island, which is also very nice.
After leaving Rabbit Island, we walked to a small but not very popular attraction nearby: the St. Petersburg Mosque. This ancient mosque, opened to the public in 1913, is the largest mosque in Europe. Above the mosque is a golden crescent on a large blue dome and two 49-meter-high minarets. The mosque overlooks the Peter and Paul Fortress across the river.
Exquisitely symmetrical geometric shapes and floral patterns, cool blue tones, bright and clean, and regularly concave and convex structures are the aesthetic art of Islamic architecture.
Tips: Photography Guide:
1. You need to stand at the top of the outer steps, close to the railing, and shoot from a low angle.
2. You must use an ultra-wide-angle lens to capture the entire building.
3. If possible, wear a skirt with an oversized hem and use the hem to cover the railing, or stand a little taller.
It is a neoclassical building built by order of Tsar Alexander I. The church can be climbed to the top and overlook the city of St. Petersburg from a high altitude.
The biggest feature of this church is its rose gold dome, which is so dazzling that it can be recognized at a glance even from a distance.
The cathedral is modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and looks majestic from the outside. The square outside the Cathedral is very lively, but it is also said to be the most popular place for thieves and robbers, so be sure to keep your camera and belongings safe.
Tips:
1. When visiting an Orthodox church, women need to wear a headscarf or hat to cover their hair; men are not allowed to enter the church in shorts. Headscarves can usually be rented free of charge at the door.
2. There is a P store (cosmetics store) near the Kazan Cathedral. The products there are relatively cheap, especially Clarins.
3. There are many people here, so please pay attention to your personal and property safety.
There is a saying that goes, "In St. Petersburg, even homeless people understand art."
The Neva River and its tributaries run through this art capital, bringing a warm and literary atmosphere. The cruise ships docked at the pier rise and fall slightly with the waves. The river is calm and peaceful, and the sunset glow is reflected on the water, so dreamy.
The buildings on Nevsky Prospekt cannot be taller than the Winter Palace, so they are of similar height and unified style. The colors are mostly fresh mint green, light pink, light yellow, and light blue. All of them are buildings with a history of at least a hundred years. The whole block is full of infinite charm, which makes people linger.
This uniquely shaped building is the St. Petersburg Bookstore. Its modernist style makes it very different from the surrounding European classical buildings. The dark walls of the exterior are inlaid with reflective mirrored windows. It is six stories high and the top floor is decorated with copper-green portrait sculptures.
What is particularly eye-catching is the conical attic and tower built on the sixth floor. It is ingenious and is said to be a clever design by the builder. It not only complies with the regulations of not exceeding the height of the Winter Palace, but also meets the builder's requirement of a "high-rise building".
If you want to buy souvenirs, I recommend this St. Petersburg bookstore. The first floor mainly sells refrigerator magnets, postcards, various tourist souvenirs, and handicrafts. There are many styles and the prices are reasonable, which is cheaper than the scenic area.
The bookstore is opposite the Kazan Cathedral, which is the center of Nevsky Prospekt. The church, bookstore, former residence and buildings of the past complement each other, which is its biggest feature.
St. Petersburg is never short of lovers, and Nevsky Prospekt has witnessed countless romantic moments. The air is filled with sweetness, and the orange glow of the sunset envelops the city, enchanting countless lovers in a dreamy and intoxicating atmosphere. Couples embrace on the bridge, the flowing Neva River, the charming churches, and the rosy sky—like a picture scroll, slowly unfolding from near to far.
There are many ways to unlock St. Petersburg. If appreciating the magnificent and ancient buildings is to understand its outline, then participating in the street culture of St. Petersburg is to know its soul. After all, the soul of the city is where there are people.
St. Petersburg's artistic heritage extends beyond ballet and other high art forms. On the streets, everyone is an artist. Starting in the evening, strolling along Nevsky Prospekt, you'll see a variety of performances. Every three steps, there's a street band, every five steps, a street artist. The city's song never ceases, offering a chance to enjoy a captivating performance at any time.
Whether it's jazz or rock, you can always find what you like on the streets of St. Petersburg.
Nevsky Prospekt has a variety of art forms. In addition to music that satisfies the auditory senses, there are also paintings that bring visual enjoyment. In addition to traditional sketches, there is also a very novel form of creation that requires spray paint of various colors and then flamethrower to complete a painting.
The Kremlin is located close to Red Square and the entrance to Alexander Garden. There are many subways to reach the Red Square. Like Tiananmen Square in Beijing, the traffic control near the Red Square requires passing through underground passages, and there is a lot of walking. However, admiring the scenery and architecture of Moscow along the way is a great experience to understand the city.
Most of the Kremlin's buildings are churches, and photography is prohibited inside, so only the exterior views can be captured. The most distinctive feature of the Orthodox churches is their onion domes, topped with Orthodox crosses, connected by gold chains for both reinforcement and aesthetics. The gleaming golden domes are striking, unique in shape, and embody a distinct Russian aesthetic.
The five churches, including the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, the Cathedral of the Archangel, and the Church of the Annunciation, have similar exterior styles, generally made of white stone or light brown.
The Ivan the Great Bell Tower is also a very famous building in the Kremlin. Its two golden onion domes are the same as other churches, but the big bell placed on the right was once considered the heaviest bell in the world. It was called the "King of Bells" and was cast in the 1730s and weighs more than 203 tons.
After coming out of the Kremlin, we went to the Armory to queue up. The Armory is located inside the Kremlin wall, but the entrance is charged separately, so the entrance to the Armory is not inside the courtyard. You need to come out of the Kremlin and walk along the red wall to the end, which is the entrance to the Armory.
Some people may not be interested when hearing the name of the Arms Museum, but in fact, it is a museum that displays Russia's national treasures, not just weapons.
Because you are not allowed to take photos in the museum, you can only use your eyes and brain to remember the countless precious collections. What impressed me most were the crown inlaid with gems, the robes of the king and queen, and a room that stored a large number of luxurious royal carriages. In short, this is a highly recommended museum.
▼Kremlin Tour Map
The famous song "Moscow Evenings" evokes a yearning for the small towns outside Moscow. There are eight Golden Ring towns near Moscow, and visiting them all would take two or three days. The closest Golden Ring town is Sergiev Posad. You can reach Sergiev Posad by train from Moscow's Yaroslavsky Railway Station.
After arriving at the town of Sergiyev Posad, don't rush to sightsee. The first thing to do is to buy the return ticket. It is recommended to buy it from the machine outside the train station. It has English language and accepts credit cards.
The town of Sergiyev Posad is not as gorgeous as St. Petersburg, nor as majestic as Moscow. It is a small Russian town far away from the hustle and bustle, simple, leisurely, quiet and peaceful.
It is about 1 kilometer from the station to the core scenic area. From a distance, you can see the onion-shaped buildings of different heights. Some are golden, some are oily green, and some are blue with gold spots, which are particularly special.
When you see a row of red-tiled buildings, you have arrived at the entrance of the scenic area. This is the ticket office of the town scenic area.
Sergiev Posad is the center of Russian Orthodoxy. The most famous of these is the Trinity Cathedral of St. Sergius, built between 1423 and 1442. The Assumption Cathedral was commissioned by Ivan IV in 1585. It consists of several closely spaced square towers, and its roof features the classic onion-shaped dome of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Unlike those seen in Moscow and St. Petersburg, this onion-shaped dome is painted not only gold but also aquamarine, adorned with a golden ten-pointed star and topped with an Orthodox cross, connected by a golden chain.
Walking into the Winter Holy Water Pavilion, you will see murals around the high ceiling telling stories of saints from top to bottom. A crystal chandelier hangs in the middle, and right below it is the holy water pool with the water outlet designed as a cross.
The architecture surrounding Red Square is incredibly unique. These buildings are incredibly tall, upright, solemn, and imposing, with strong lines that exude a calm and rational air. The churches boast perfectly rounded, full domes, a hallmark of Byzantine Orthodoxy. Standing in Red Square and looking up at these buildings creates a sense of magical realism that is truly breathtaking.
There is a famous shopping mall on Moscow's Red Square. It is located on the east side of the Red Square like a European palace. It is magnificent, luxurious and stunning. Its name is GUM.
GUM is a three-story department store with a European classical style. It is topped by a bronze spire. Its solemn appearance and gorgeous yet simple decorations further highlight its nobility and grandeur.
The interior of the mall does not have the homogeneous design of modern shopping malls. The arched glass ceiling provides good lighting. The three-story mall is connected by three corridors. The shops on both sides of the corridors maintain the classical European palace design, which is magnificent, elegant and dignified.
There are more than a thousand stores in the mall. The first-floor corridor is decorated with sculptures of various shapes and green plants, making the entire interior space full of vitality and vigor. It is better to say that this is an urban aesthetic art space rather than a shopping mall.
In the center of the first floor of the mall, there is a small fountain, which is very romantic. The fountain has almost become a gathering place for tourists, and everyone has an ice cream in their hands. It must be said that GUM has a product that is as famous as the mall itself, and that is this ice cream cone. It is more popular than the dazzling array of goods and big brands. It costs 100 rubles each and almost everyone has one. Although there are many people, the taste is worth waiting in line.
This is not only a place for shopping, but more people choose it as a place to relax and date. Who wouldn’t want to spend an afternoon sitting in such an elegant and artistic place?
The Moscow State Historical Museum is a classically styled building, characterized by symmetry, unity, dignity, and a sense of stability and rational beauty. More than a dozen spires tightly surround the vermilion exterior, with the white spires reaching upwards creating a solemn and majestic presence.
Red Square often sees people dressed in gorgeous court costumes, sometimes performing coin-tossing shows. Similar to the people in scenic spots in China who dress up as Monkey Kings and ask others to take photos with them, taking photos with them will incur a significant fee. It's best to observe from a distance and avoid getting too close to take photos.
{tips}1. The Kremlin, the State Historical Museum and GUM Department Store are all located in Red Square and can be arranged into a day trip.
2. If time permits, wait until the lights come on at night. It looks very nice, especially the path on the side of GUM department store.
3. There are many ice cream shops in GUM department store, and the price is the same, 100 rubles, so you can buy it from any of them.
4. The nearest place to eat is in Hunter Mall, underground near Red Square.
5. Transportation: You can reach the station via the Hunter Commercial Station on Line 1, the Theater Station on Line 2, or the Revolution Square Station on Line 3.
Moscow metro stations are as magnificent as palaces. Since they were once used as air-raid shelters, they are inevitably a bit old and very distinctive, with rich Soviet and European court elements. They are gorgeous and elegant, with unique style, magnificent lamps and exquisite murals, which make people linger.
Komsomol Station on Line 5 is the most famous and magnificent subway station, and also the one with the most palace feel.
The most distinctive feature of Xinzhuang Station is its 32 large stained glass windows, six of which depict working people from different trades, exquisite patterns, and the Kremlin's red star.
Mayakovskaya Metro Station is the most unique subway station. Unlike other subway stations, it is not full of history, but has a rich sense of modernity and futurism. Above the subway station is like a flying saucer in outer space, with a circle of lights surrounding the unique circle.
Belarus Station has a fresh style, with clean white tones, as well as Belarusian-style sculptures and murals.
The mobile phone signal is not very good in the subway, so many passengers bring books to read.
The station is very busy, with frequent trains running every one or two minutes. The station is very deep, having been a bomb shelter, and the longest elevator ride takes three minutes. It has a long history, dating back 80 or 90 years, and the environment and facilities are relatively old, giving it a sense of history. The station is very clean and staffed.
Tips: Subway riding tips:
1. There are manual ticket vending machines and self-service ticket vending machines on the platform. The staff can speak English. The self-service ticket machines have English interfaces and are easy to operate. There are also staff to assist.
2. One-way ticket costs 55 rubles, and you can transfer to any other train along the way.
3. The same subway station may be on different lines and have different names. Be sure to check carefully to avoid getting on the wrong one.
Chinese version of Moscow Metro map
Russian version of the Moscow Metro map
While traveling in Moscow, I came to the largest and most famous flea market here - Izmailovo Market. The Chinese name is transliterated as "an ant", which is very easy to remember and very interesting.
The Ant Market does not have the tall and majestic buildings like the Red Square, nor the shabby and messy traditional markets. Its appearance is like a castle built of building blocks, and it is as colorful and cute as its transliterated name.
The market is bustling on weekends, with tourists and locals flocking in. From the subway station, before you even reach the market, you can spot its castle-like structure from afar. Its colorful spires exude a playful charm while retaining the distinctive Russian architectural style.
An Ant is an open-air market with a small entrance, but it is a different world inside. Like the farmers' markets in our country, the market is divided into several streets with neat rows of stalls on both sides of the streets. There are all kinds of exquisite nesting dolls, a wide range of wooden artworks, and many styles of European-style carpets. It is especially suitable for selecting exquisite souvenirs such as nesting dolls, refrigerator magnets, postcards, etc. The prices are much cheaper than outside and you can bargain.
Many people bring their old things or handmade artworks to set up stalls here to sell. This shop displays different kinds of old retro cameras, which is very attractive. If you like to buy second-hand items, you will definitely find a lot of good things.
The most classic souvenir from Russia is the nesting doll. In the market, you can find nesting dolls of different sizes and materials and colors. There are many types. The prices vary according to the complexity and exquisiteness of the craftsmanship of the nesting doll patterns.
The overall price of Russian nesting dolls is not very cheap, but the quality is relatively good, especially those with gold-plated decorations and exquisite patterns are more expensive, but they are also cheaper than the nesting dolls sold in the outdoor areas of the market. If you plan to buy nesting dolls, it is more suitable to buy them at Yizi Ant.
Yishi Ant is also a local place similar to the domestic literary and artistic districts and creative factories. The beautiful architecture has also made it a popular photo-taking spot for internet celebrities. Graffiti walls, colorful umbrella streets, etc. can be seen.
After entering the gate, keep to the right. There's a passage in the middle, and you'll find yourself in a completely different world. The graffiti walls here are perfect for taking photos, and there aren't many people around. Also in this area, there are some photo ops, making it a favorite spot for local bloggers.
There are not many restaurants in the market, only barbecue restaurants, which are located on the street on the right after entering the door. Apart from that, there are cafes that provide simple meals at affordable prices.
Tips: 1. You can bargain when buying things in an ant market, and how much you can bargain for depends on your ability.
2. Most purchases at the stalls require cash, but credit cards are accepted in stores.
3. When navigating, you need to search for [Izmailovo] to find it.
4. Business hours: 09:00-18:00 (try to go on weekends as there are events)
5. Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to the Guerrilla Station (Партизанская). Walk about 500 meters from the subway and you will see a colorful castle.
Russia is truly more than just a "warlike nation"—its magnificent architecture, kind locals, and unique handicrafts will delight you! I highly recommend visiting this rational yet colorful, seemingly cold but actually gentle country.
