Nature Observation and Journaling | Insects, Plants, and Birds Bewertungen von Reisenden

Very happy to follow Phoebe and Xiangyang into the mountains and explore nature ✨ Along the way, we encountered many plants and small insects we had never seen before, full of fresh surprises. After reaching the summit, we had a pleasant picnic on the mountaintop, with the wind blowing very comfortably. The child exclaimed with surprise: 'This can't be a dream, right!' Many adults have long been unable to perceive such simple joys, but children can always immerse themselves wholeheartedly. It was really a great experience.

I was fortunate to meet Teacher Phoebe, who is full of vitality. She is deeply devoted to what she loves. The mountains and wild things are so vivid and interesting in her eyes. The children have walked far away, but lovely Teacher Phoebe is still looking for the walking stick's dinner, observing a little bug on a green leaf. Today, following such a Teacher Phoebe to observe insects and leaves, the little one gained not only knowledge of new insects and plants but also a glimpse through the teacher of the liveliness and fun of the mountains and wild things, the subtle and healing beauty of nature. The forest is the classroom, passion is the teacher. The education hidden in the small corners of plants and trees nourishes silently and softly. 💚

Thank you to teachers Phoebe and Xiangyang for their rich experience and thoughtful arrangement of activities. They took the children to explore various plants and insects in nature, patiently explained, answered the children's questions, and together completed a perfect nature observation notebook. It is truly a highly recommended activity experience.

I joined Phoebe's nature observation with my three-year-old child. Along the way, we saw many amazing plants and bugs. I couldn't remember them all, but Phoebe had prepared a guidebook. The teacher also brought insect-catching clips and boxes, which were very practical and kept the child entertained for a long time. When we reached the mountain temple, Phoebe took out a lot of fruits and snacks to satisfy our cravings. Although my child has a cleanliness obsession and didn't walk much on the muddy ground (I carried him the whole way), this hike was still fulfilling and meaningful. Highly recommend!!

Phoebe's nature observation hiking experience was fantastic! The route is gentle and friendly, and the itinerary is well-organized and reasonable. Phoebe is knowledgeable and extremely patient, carefully observing along the way with the children, taking notes as we walked. She carried a backpack full of tools and supplies, leading everyone on an immersive journey to get close to the mountains and nature. After the class, she also sent additional educational videos on the habits of insects we didn't see, with meticulous details. The children especially loved her homemade passion fruit tea, so delicious that we secretly wrote down the recipe. The whole activity was fulfilling and healing.

When I first met Phoebe, she was small in stature but carried a lot of gear—a basket and several bags. Upon meeting, she first explained to the kids what nature journaling is, then distributed materials: personally compiled science illustrations, small tweezers for catching insects, insect collection boxes, paper, pens, fruit, snacks, and even tea prepared separately for adults and children. A tea break was arranged midway, and after resting, everyone continued writing their journal entries. I was deeply impressed by Phoebe's love for nature. She could talk eloquently about any plant or insect she saw. Compared to insects, the kids actually preferred plants. With Phoebe's patient explanations and guidance, at the end of the activity, my child said to me, "Mom, I'm not so scared of spiders anymore." This activity planted a seed in our hearts—curiosity and love for all things will slowly take root and quietly sprout.

Teacher Phoebe was very patient. She took us up Cangshan while observing plants and insects, explaining everything in detail and answering everyone's questions. She prepared a full set of tools: binoculars, insect observation boxes, small capture scissors, and a children's instant camera. The kids had a great time! We also made nature observation notes and gained a lot.

A Cangshan hiking trip that will forever stay in my memory. It was so, so, so much fun!!!!!!!!! Caught dozens of insects, got to know lovely nature observation classmates, saw a woodpecker fly out of a tree hole, and the home of the world's smallest nest mouse... The rare stick insect was definitely the favorite of both kids and adults. What a treasure is "plant Lego"? You can put it directly on your eyebrows. The guides, who know everything about plants and animals, are gentle and lovely. And every time I look up here, my heart is intoxicated. Every day's activities exceeded my expectations. I just ignore the other shortcomings.

I signed up for Sister Feifei's Cangshan Nature Observation Notes! It was my first time observing and drawing in a natural environment. Sister Feifei is really interesting! She's like a little forest elf. I'll consider recommending it to friends later~

In winter, Cangshan is still dominated by dry, yellow tones. The scenery along the way isn't particularly beautiful, and the route isn't difficult, but it was novel to see the distant mountains, Erhai Lake, and the white houses with upturned eaves from a height. Small hidden tasks like turning horsetail grass into green eyebrows and searching for porcupine quills added a wild fun to the journey. When I first met Teacher Phoebe, she was small in stature, carrying a large basket on her back, and spoke softly. Inside were small insects to be released after observation, snacks and tea for the picnic, and various tools for making notes—definitely not light, but not as much as the knowledge of plants and animals in Teacher Phoebe's head. At the start of the observation journey, I was deeply attracted by her personality when she showed us her nature journal. I was determined to create a special journal of my own during this trip. But time was limited, my drawing skills were poor, and my memory wasn't great. Teacher Phoebe introduced so much along the way that my nature journal ended up messy, but it's still special! After the trip, Teacher Phoebe even shared in the group photos of plants and animals we missed seeing. I don't know how many times she has walked this route, but from her words, she still seems deeply interested and tireless. Since starting work, I've always felt like I'm doing what I should do rather than what I'm interested in. That evening, looking back at the photos shared in the group, my friend and I—the only two adults who took notes—were seriously listening and recording. I sighed, realizing it had been a long time since I'd studied so diligently. On the way back, whenever we saw plants like Ficus altissima, Reinwardtia indica, or Tropaeolum majus, we would review the knowledge points. In textbooks, we teach children to observe, but we rarely engage in true observation ourselves. When I saw a stick insect's meticulous camouflage up close and interacted with it, I truly developed an interest in it. As an adult, I'm making up for lost time, cultivating the ability to observe patiently. Following Teacher Phoebe, I took an authentic nature lesson. Where are the magical plants and animals? Back in daily life, the knowledge points in my notes may fade, but this wonderful feeling will be renewed every time I interact with nature.

This time I chose Phoebe's Cangshan Mini Nature Observation activity, and it was totally worth it! At the start, Phoebe took out several jars of little bugs for me to identify and explained them to me, because winter has come and insects are not as common as in summer. But luckily, sharp-eyed Phoebe spotted two stick insects hiding in the bushes. It was truly amazing—they looked just like tree branches, hard to tell apart. We walked along the path, identifying plants as we went up. No matter which plant I pointed to, Phoebe could tell me its name, story, and even its medicinal uses. She not only knew every plant but also had a lot of knowledge about birds and squirrels. Since it was just the two of us and it was quiet, the birds and squirrels were very active and undisturbed. We spent a long time observing forest birds and learned many new species! We were even lucky enough to witness the mating chase of the Pern's long-nosed squirrel, which usually appears in spring. It seems spring might come sooner than we expected. Besides that, Phoebe took me to a perfect spot for a picnic and shared some super special Fengyu mooncakes with me—they were delicious! Together we watched the sunset over Cangshan, the moonrise over Erhai, and the Earth's shadow, the Belt of Venus. Truly, nature is romance itself. It was a very interesting experience. Under Phoebe's guidance and leadership, I opened up a new micro-world perspective. Every single plant and grass is so detailed and interesting. My life's breadth has increased again~

26.1.5 Phoebe's Nature Notes Thank you, Phoebe, for an experience that made me fall in love with Dali, Cangshan, and nature. Teacher Phoebe is truly knowledgeable, gentle, and patient. She knows every plant like the back of her hand, and the whole journey was full of surprises and joy! Phoebe was very well-prepared. Since there weren't many insects in the winter grass, she specially brought out the bugs she raises to show and explain to me. For the first time in my life, I overcame my fear of insects and had close interaction with a stick insect. It was a wonderful and warm experience for me! Phoebe also showed me many of her nature notes and shared her ideas about journaling, writing practice, and drawing. It was a very pleasant exchange. The itinerary was also very well arranged. Although the route was easy, it was rich in content! Besides the nature explanations along the way, we reached a high point where there was a small tea break and a great view. On the way down, we saw a mountain temple and some artistic graffiti on the wall—another wonderful sight. Unfortunately, I had to leave Dali early this time. I will definitely come back for other activities next time. Looking forward to it!

Cangshan Hiking Home has so many activities. I chose Phoebe's Nature Notes after a long selection. I thought there wouldn't be much to gain on the mountain in winter, but the amount of information was huge. Phoebe's explanations were very vivid, covering plant species from overseas to domestic, along with a lot of local cultural knowledge. The bilingual Chinese-English comparison was very interesting. As long as you were interested in a topic, she would patiently explain it. It felt like opening a thick encyclopedia of natural science. We collected many specimens along the way. Xiangyang was also amazing, constantly finding bugs for us. We even saw tiny stick insects. I want to come again in summer and bring my friends. Getting to know Phoebe and Xiangyang is the right way to open up Dali. Oh, and they also carried up a camping afternoon tea with local specialty snacks. Very thoughtful and attentive hospitality.

This parent-child nature observation activity was absolutely amazing! My kid's eyes were sparkling the whole time, constantly asking the teacher questions, and even at home he kept talking about the little bugs he saw and the new plants he learned about—so much more vivid than reading books. We crouched down together to observe, took notes by hand, and were fully engaged. Not only did my child learn a lot, but I also gained new knowledge. This kind of activity, where kids can learn while playing and strengthen family bonds, is truly worth recommending!

Phoebe's nature observation notes deeply moved me and also influenced my child. I originally just wanted to accompany my child for the experience, but unexpectedly, I got really into it myself. This was the first time I got close to nature in this way. I feel that before, I only brushed past nature—even when hiking or playing, it felt like being a passerby. That day, following Phoebe to observe different plants and creatures and actually touching them was truly getting close to nature, starting to know and understand it. And when making notes, I realized I hadn't drawn in a long time, which reignited my passion for drawing. I'm very lucky to have met you all, opening up the nature senses for both my child and me. My child also opened up in nature, interacting with it like a carefree little elf. The teacher was very meticulous and thoughtful, preparing a rich afternoon tea and carrying it up the mountain, along with small stools, drawing tools, rain gear, etc. My child said they want to see you all again.

Walking along the small paths of Cangshan with Phoebe, we got to know many plants and insects along the way. Phoebe and Xiangyang led us, stopping and going, without rushing. Instead, they carefully introduced every little creature we encountered in simple and understandable language, patient and meticulous. They also prepared insect-catching tools and boxes for the kids, who were all very happy. When we came across stinging nettles, Phoebe instinctively cut off those that might brush against passersby. That gesture really moved me. She is not only our nature observation guide but also someone who respects nature and cares for others. During the activity, it started raining. We took shelter in an open space in the mountains. The setting was simple, with locals drying tea leaves nearby. Phoebe spread out the snacks and tea she had prepared in advance. That moment, even now when I think back, is still very healing. Our older sister drew very carefully and slowly. Teacher Xiangyang patiently helped her complete the notes without any rush. In the evening, Teacher Phoebe even sent a message to encourage her. This activity also allowed us to meet two families who joined just the night before we left—lovely Meimei and Wuyue. The kids added each other as friends on their smartwatches before parting, and the moms exchanged contact information. The serendipity of meeting people is truly wonderful. We look forward to gathering again in Dali next time.

The highlight of our Dali study tour: Phoebe's nature observation journal! A 4-hour nature hiking observation, far exceeding expectations: **Professional and extremely responsible: Rich knowledge, vivid explanations. The kids' questions were answered patiently on the spot; for those she couldn't answer, she looked them up and replied the next day! **Full of surprises: We set out in light rain, but saw stick insects, Lady Amherst's pheasants, and frozen butterflies—a rewarding harvest. **Heartwarming service: When we couldn't get a taxi after the activity, the guide proactively drove us to a restaurant! So touching! Both adults and kids loved it—a perfect blend of fun and knowledge. Phoebe's passion, professionalism, and warmth made this experience unforgettable. Highly recommend to families with kids!

The kid really liked Teacher Phoebe's activity. She was patient and meticulous, not only introducing the habits and types of insects but also reminding us about plants that sting—very thoughtful. Besides observing and catching small insects, we could also put the caught bugs into an observation box to examine them closely. The kid had a great time, with curiosity fully satisfied. It was both fun and educational. The note-taking session was very meaningful and engaging. Since many things are forgotten over time, writing them down allows for review later. The explanations were easy to understand and vivid. After the activity, we gained a deeper understanding of the insects around us, sparking interest in observing insects in our daily lives. The observation location was well chosen, and the hike was easy, suitable for kids. The whole activity lasted five hours, and Teacher Phoebe arranged it well. The variety of insects was rich and great for exploration. Both children and adults found joy in the activity. It protects children's love for nature and encourages them to become little guardians of the environment. Overall, it was a fun and educational experience, relaxing and enriching. Recommended for all nature lovers!

I was very happy to participate in Phoebe's nature observation and note-taking activity. I thought we would first go to some 'secret base,' but these lovely plants and insects were right by the path, near the farmland, and in the corners of the courtyard. Listening to Phoebe's gentle and detailed explanations, I learned that the two nectaries on the petiole of the high basin cherry are used to 'bribe' the natural enemies of pests—they collect nectar while guarding the plant. Passing by a small tea garden, Phoebe pointed out a yellow-vented bulbul perched on a dry branch of a firecracker flower. It had a black crown, a light gray collar, and bright yellow feathers on its rump. Yellow-vented bulbuls are common, but this was the first time I observed one closely. We continued walking, passed a wild spring, and found a click beetle that bows its head, a three-spotted pseudo-click beetle, and heard the unique song of the black-headed sibia. Nature is so amazing! At a clearing on the hilltop, Phoebe spread out a blanket and magically produced hot tea and snacks from a bamboo basket. Phoebe lay down and continued answering my questions. I tried to make a nature journal, occasionally looking up at the distant village and Erhai Lake. It was a wonderful day!

Cangshan Nature Observation + Notes 📒 So much fun [yeah] Only reluctantly went home after dark 1. Pseudolampra on Deutzia 2. Giant stink bug (nymph) on Alnus nepalensis 3. Pseudolampra 4. Jumping spider 5. Me 6. Strange stink bug 7. Purple vetch 8. Firethorn

My second time joining this activity, and the experience was even better than the first. The teacher was very kind, professional, and patient, great at guiding children. You could feel their love for the work—truly dedicated. The kids stayed focused the whole time, completed the "homework" seriously, and learned a lot about nature. Thank you!

Shout out to Phoebe! This trip was perfect. Although it was December, winter in Dali, Cangshan still had abundant plants and chirping birds! The most beautiful were the blooming winter cherries and the leaves of the Yunnan poplar that had already changed color! There were also wild lemongrass, Eastern purple perilla, torch flowers, fleabane species like feathery-leaved fleabane, star-haired golden brocade, Nujiang red camellia, fiery golden silk plum and small sumac, elephant trunk vine with black branches and tender green, three-flowered sword-leaved herb, climbing knotweed, Sichuan teasel, and so many more! Although some had passed their blooming season and become dried fruits or withered, every season has its beauty! It gave a deeper understanding of plant succession and metabolism! Phoebe has a wealth of knowledge about plants and animals, expresses herself clearly, is patient and meticulous, loves to share, and is pure and beautiful! Highly recommend taking a walk on Cangshan with Phoebe! The view of Dali basin and Haidong from Cangshan, especially near sunset, is stunning! Phoebe can speak English, Japanese, and French. So if you are a foreigner who can't speak Chinese, don't hesitate to join Phoebe for a visit to Cangshan!

Thank you for recording the pictures. She was super happy today and told her dad on the phone that she was incredibly happy.

I was lucky to participate in Phoebe's nature observation and journaling. The planned four-hour observation and journaling time was extended until 8 PM because of Phoebe's detailed explanations and patient answers to the two kids' questions, as well as the final creation. On the way down the mountain, we encountered a heavy rainstorm, and we walked while exclaiming that it was another unique experience. It reminded me of a lyric: Walk in the rain, a ray of sunshine should be warm. Everyone should have a dream, and if you have a dream, don't be afraid of pain.

I've been busy washing and cleaning since I got back. Thank you, Phoebe, for bringing us this unforgettable Cangshan Notes experience. Besides learning about some insects and plants, I also discovered another way to record life besides using a camera. For me, it was a wonderful experience, and for Xibao, it must have been a very special adventure. Thank you for your dedication.

Many times when I travel with my child, it's actually me who gets healed. I will definitely recommend this activity to more adults and children.

Thank you, Phoebe. She was super happy today. She said it was more fun than any class she's ever taken.

Thank you, teacher! It was a great experience. You even carried such heavy stuff. Not only did the kids learn a lot, but I also gained a lot. The morning bee class was also fantastic. Both teachers were super gentle and patient, the kind that makes you feel you can slow down and truly appreciate things. I really liked it. I want to sign up for the mushroom picking class the day after tomorrow.

~_~ Thank you, Phoebe, for the explanation. I learned a lot. I've already forgotten what color a seven-spot ladybug is.

Today's treasure experience was absolutely wonderful. Thank you, Phoebe.

Thank you, Teacher Phoebe, for taking care of us yesterday. The child said the teacher was so gentle and also shared a lot of nature knowledge with me. Thank you for the book you gave; the child stayed up all night reading it before sleeping. Looking forward to meeting again next time.

I joined their three-day activities all at once, and every day passed super fulfilling. I am very grateful. Sometimes in the city, we forget that there are unknowns and things to explore all around us. A patch of grass that looks like nothing is full of vitality. Looking forward to meeting again, and I will carry this heart back to the city.

Highly anticipated nature observation During the Spring Festival, I spent 4 days in Dali and joined 4 activities with Cangshan Hiking Home. When I was planning my trip in January, I stumbled upon Jason's team and was drawn to their activities, so I arranged the plan a month in advance. The first activity was the beekeeping experience. Teacher Chunyu shared beekeeping knowledge effortlessly and eloquently. In one morning, I learned a lot about bees and saw different species—very impressive! The second was the Eryuan Rural Tour. We passed by a milk fan workshop in Dengchuan, boated on Dali West Lake with tall reeds, and saw ducks, purple swamphens, and egrets everywhere. We learned about an ancient village with a unique group of people who speak Bai language, wear Bai costumes, but devoutly practice Islam. The guide was Xiao Li, a very nice local. My kid especially loved the guide Xiao Zhao's bull terrier, Gangzi. The third was the highly anticipated Cangshan Full-Day Nature Observation. I met teachers Zhao Xi and Wang Bin—one knows plants well, the other loves birdwatching. My 5.5-year-old kid hiked while learning a lot, covering 12 km without getting tired, very cheerful. We had vegetarian lunch, and my kid was thrilled to eat it for the first time (always heard about it in Journey to the West). In the second half, my kid chatted with the teachers about the Three Kingdoms, very excited. Later, when seeing unfamiliar birds, my kid asked me to consult Teacher Wang. The fourth was the Huoshan Sunset. The guide was Aruna, a very friendly and considerate girl towards kids. We set off in the afternoon, visited the Shuanglang Huoshan Bai Farmer Painting Society (Chicken Nest) Café—a rural art café featuring paintings by Bai grandmothers, art creative products, and local food culture. We met artist Shen Jianhua, had coffee, climbed a small path to a platform to watch the sunset and picnic. The last sunset of the lunar year 2023 was worth it. In the evening, we were lucky to have New Year's Eve dinner with several guides—very happy. I'm very happy with this arrangement and look forward to visiting Dali again. I also want to go to Xipo and stargazing. Hope Cangshan Hiking Home gets better and better. See you next time!

Very infectious Teacher Phoebe is a true nature enthusiast, and her passion for natural science deeply infected us. Besides sharing various obscure and interesting facts on the spot, she also went back to consult experts to answer some of our lingering questions and gave us more reliable answers! She is truly a charming nature exploration mentor. The kids had a great time, and the snacks she prepared were delicious. Just a reminder to follow Phoebe's advice and bring enough clothes; after the sun goes behind the mountain, the temperature drops sharply, and if you don't wear thick clothes, you'll have to go down early.