As we strolled through Tienanmen Square I couldn't help but admire both the beauty and the history of the Square. I gazed across the street to the entrance of the Forbidden City and imagined what it was like 60 years ago when Mao stood atop the gate and announced "The People's Republic of China". The country has come a long way since then and I can't help but admire its (bumpy) progress.
Entrance to the Forbidden City. Also the gate that Mao stood atop.This was the extent of our site seeing on Thursday as the jet lag and lack of sleep had caught up with us. I believe we stopped at McDonald's on the way home and had the best McDonald's burger I've ever tasted.
Friday we explored the Lama Temple and the Temple of Heaven. I enjoyed taking in and experiencing the culture as we watched spiritual rituals at the Lama Temple and everything from choir practice to chess playing at the Temple of Heaven.
Lama Temple
Temple of HeavenSaturday was my favorite day. Ryan hired a private driver for the day and we headed to the Great Wall at Mutianyu. I don't know how to put this experience into words besides to say it was absolutely breathtaking. It is the most amazing site I have ever seen. I'll let the pictures say the rest.
Riding the lift up to the Wall.
Alpine slide down the Wall.After exploring the Great Wall for three hours or so we asked our driver to take us to the Olympic Park. We were able to see the Birds Nest and the Cube. The Chinese did a great job building and so far maintaining the park.
On Sunday we went to the Summer Palace. The site was packed with locals so we escaped on a boat and explored most of the park on the lake. It was fun to escape the crowds and take in grand size of the Palace.
Monday, our last day, we explored the Forbidden City. This was another one of my favorite places. Most of the buildings had been newly renovated and the vibrant paintings on them were amazing. After exploring the city we hiked a small hill at a park across the street and enjoyed seeing a view of the entire city. It's looked like a sea of yellow tile.
Forbidden City
Riding through a local Hutong (neighborhood)
View of The Forbidden City in the background.
7 comments:
I am still so Jealous seeing these pictures for the 2nd time. It was fun to see you guys the other night. We will miss having you guys here.
two more words: HOW ADVENTUROUS! We'll definitely need to talk to you guys about Asia--we want to branch out and see more and this post is inspiring to say the least! Glad you guys had a fun time!
These pics and descriptions were so fun to read. So great that you had such a fine trip!
Tokyo looks like a place I need to see....and get some soda. That is a big Mtn Dew.
I still remember that alpine slide going down from the Great Wall. My favorite. Smart to go to that part of the wall.
I almost cried as I read this and looked at these photos of My World! I wish we could have crossed paths. I wish we lived in Beijing still. I am glad you loved this lovely land as much as we do. There is much spirit here and you were further blessed with some glorious blue skies not often seen in Beijing. Word is they have snow already. Good timing and I guess we'll catch you next time.
Taryn, I loved every moment of this this trip with you! Thanks for being such are marvelous friend, traveler, and wife!
Hi Ryan and Taryn...I am cleaning out my emails - since I have over 100 pages! ...and I come across your blog invite. Click! I see your sweet family ...Smile! Scroll...I see you in China! We just returned! Loved seeing these pictures! Love hearing that you are doing well! Love you...Stephanie
Another comment...have you watched the DVD "The Last Emporer?" If not, do it...the Forbidden City will have new meaning to you. I am going to post my picts on Costco and send to you. So fun! I wish we could talk "China!"
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