In traditional Chinese culture, landscapes are not merely natural beauties but also profound reflections of human nature and philosophy. Drawing inspiration from the “Eight Views of Scholars,” we have integrated these classic symbols into the user level system of iTravelChina. Each level embodies cultural significance, a spiritual journey, and a testament to personal growth.
Level 1: Morning Light – A New Beginning of Hope
Joining the community marks the start of your journey to explore Chinese culture and beauty. At this stage, you’ll unlock basic features, browse community content, and interact with others, laying the foundation for your journey.
- Cultural Connection: In traditional Chinese culture, morning light often represents hope and renewal. Its arrival signifies the end of the night and the beginning of a new day. Ancient people valued the lifestyle of rising with the sun, and morning light became a symbol of effort and inspiration. As mentioned in the Book of Songs, “Having seen the noble one, how could I not rejoice?” reflects the joy of encountering hope.
Level 2: Sunset Glow – Warm Reflection
At this stage, you start contributing to the community, participating in discussions, and gaining initial recognition. This is the foundation for higher achievements, where you learn to make your voice heard.
- Cultural Connection: In Chinese literature, sunsets often evoke feelings of the fleeting nature of time. Du Mu’s famous lines, “The sunset is infinitely beautiful, but it’s near the dusk,” not only depict the sunset’s grandeur but also convey a philosophical contemplation on life. The golden and tranquil sunset epitomizes harmony between humans and nature.
Level 3: Spring Dawn – The Energy of Growth
Your active sharing and participation begin to flourish, earning appreciation and recognition from the community. At this stage, you’ll unlock advanced interactive features, enjoy diverse activities, and enrich others’ journeys with your contributions.
- Cultural Connection: Spring is the season of renewal, and spring dawn signifies the beginning and flourishing of life. In Meng Haoran’s poem Spring Dawn, “Spring sleeps without awareness of dawn; birdsong is heard everywhere,” the natural revival is showcased through morning birdsong, reflecting endless vitality. Spring dawn is both a natural beauty and a symbol of life’s vigor.
Level 4: Autumn Moon – Tranquility of Maturity
At this level, you become a respected and trusted presence, exuding wisdom and tranquility. You can engage in advanced discussions, offer unique insights, and serve as a role model for others.
- Cultural Connection: In Chinese culture, the autumn moon represents reunion and longing, with the Mid-Autumn Festival centered around the full moon. Su Shi’s poem Prelude to Water Melody expresses this: “May we live long and share the beauty of the moon, even if miles apart,” symbolizing connection and blessings through the moon’s beauty.
Level 5: Summer Rain – Nourishing Grace
Your contributions to the community are like summer rain, enriching others’ experiences and elevating the overall atmosphere. At this stage, you’ll gain access to more resources, organize events, or mentor newcomers, extending your influence further.
- Cultural Connection: Summer rain is often seen as a gift from nature, symbolizing life’s continuation with its nourishing power. As Du Fu wrote, “Good rain knows its time, falling when spring arrives,” capturing the precious and timely nature of rain. Summer rain is gentle yet powerful, representing one of nature’s most selfless offerings.
Level 6: Winter Snow – The Power of Purity
You become a pillar of the community, inspiring others with your resilience and wisdom. As an experienced contributor, you’ll receive unique recognition and enjoy greater authority in managing community interactions.
- Cultural Connection: Winter snow represents purity and strength, embodying the spirit of thriving in adversity. “The plum blossom’s fragrance comes from the bitter cold” reflects this tenacity. Winter snow brings tranquility and prepares for new life, symbolizing the profound cycle of life.
Level 7: Fishing Lights – Guiding Warmth
At this level, you become a guiding light in the community, fostering a welcoming atmosphere. You’ll take on mentorship and support roles, helping others grow while enjoying VIP services and special rewards.
- Cultural Connection: Fishing lights are a symbol of tranquil rural life, as depicted in Zhang Zhihe’s Fisherman’s Song: “With a green bamboo hat and a straw raincoat, I need not return in the drizzle,” expressing harmony between humanity and nature. Fishing lights are warm and enduring, like a beacon guiding the way home.
Level 8: Temple Bell – Eternal Inspiration
At this pinnacle level, you become an ambassador of Chinese culture, spreading wisdom and beauty. You’ll enjoy a prestigious identity and opportunities to contribute to platform development, lighting the path for others to explore culture and knowledge.
- Cultural Connection: In Buddhist culture, the bell signifies awakening and introspection. The “morning bell and evening drum” of temples remind people to cherish time and life. The bell’s profound sound invites deep contemplation on life’s meaning, symbolizing enlightenment and inspiration.
How to Engage with the Community
- Share Inspiration: Upload your travel stories and guides to enrich our cultural treasure trove.
- Active Interaction: Discuss and exchange ideas with other travelers, inspiring mutual growth.
- Contribute Value: Provide high-quality content or solutions to enhance community richness.
- Enjoy the Journey: Progress through levels from “Morning Light” to “Temple Bell” by exploring culture and contributing:
- From Morning Light to Sunset Glow: Gain rewards from initial explorations.
- Spring Dawn and Autumn Moon: Delve deeper into cultural journeys.
- Summer Rain and Winter Snow: Experience the enduring rhythm of nature.
- Fishing Lights and Temple Bell: Reach the pinnacle of cultural understanding.
Let the “Eight Views of Scholars” Illuminate Your Journey
At iTravelChina.com, every level represents a spiritual journey. By combining natural beauty with cultural essence, we aim to bring deeper meaning and inspiration to your travels.
Let us embrace this path of culture and discovery together, finding new selves and a broader world in the embrace of Chinese culture!