Thursday. After a somewhat tasty Asian breakfast, we walked to the North gate of the Forbidden City with our guide Alen. He led us through the the major parts of the old city and was detailed in his explanations and answers to our questions. It was cold throughout the morning, but it eventually warmed up a bit. Because of the holiday, the Chinese were there in droves and wanted to see their own piece of national history. It was most crowded around the throne of the Emporer where you literally had to push and shove your way in order to get a picture or even see it.
After the Forbidden City, we walked across the street to see the world's largest city square in Tiannamen Square. Most of the world remembers this square because of the 1989 student protests that had tanks running through the streets. It is surrounded by government buildings and the mausoleum of Chairman Mao. We then had a very tasty Sichuan province lunch before heading to see the Drum Tower.
The Drum Tower gained some fame this summer for the Olympic Games because an American was stabbed to death there. No stabbings today, but it was very cool as we saw the drummers do a small performance. Our new guide, Robert, did a great job of explaining the city and our next destination, the old city Hutongs. We hopped on some rickshaws and our driver peddled us through the streets of the Hutongs. We stopped at one where our guide explained the meaning of the doorways and thresholds. We then rode out to visit a family who lived in one of the Hutongs where we were treated to some snacks and were able to visit and ask questions. They were very nice and hospitable.
We decided to head back to the hotel for a quick rest before heading out again to see a Kung Fu Show. It was a play/performance and the music was very good. It is hard to describe it, but it was very Chinese and entertaining. Our next stop was the famous Peking Duck dinner with various other menu items.
After a long day, we have crashed back at the hotel. I've went ahead and added my photos to our web album. I'll add to it later with some of Jamie and Kathy's pictures as well as some captions to explain some things, but until then, enjoy and feel free to ask some questions.
Tomorrow, we will be visiting the Ming Tombs and standing on the GREAT WALL OF CHINA. A personal dream will finally be a reality.
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