Yesterday (Saturday) was our second full day in Beijing. Helena and Liu met us at the hotel and we headed out for the Great Wall, about 30 miles outside the city. On the way, we stopped at a cloisonné "factory" where pieces are hand made by craftswomen. We were told it is a dying art - as the economy modernizes few young people want to spend the time learning and perfecting the craft.
Then, we went to the Wall at Juyong Guan, in the mountains. The setting is spectacular. The mountain seem to rise straight up from the valley, and so does the Wall. The views were amazing. Maura and Biz had enough after about 15 minutes of climbing (very steep and slippery) while Chuck managed to make it nearly to the top of the nearest peak. There seemed to be a large number of international visitors, though Helena told us that this was not a busy day. Lots of languages being spoken. Maura and Biz talked to a lady from Germany and two Pakistanis.
On the way back to Beijing we stopped at a jade "factory" where we also had lunch. Then we went to a hutong near the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower. Hutongs are old neighborhoods in Beijing. Many have been overrun by modern development, but some survive in the downtown area. It was a good chance to see traditional city life. We visited a porcelain "factory" then got a rickshaw ride around the hutong. Helena had us stop to visit with a family who told us about their life. Then we went to the Bell Tower. Chuck and Bizzy climbed the 72 steep steps to see the enormous bell as well as some magnificent views of the city. Following that, we had a tea tasting in a shop below the Bell Tower, then called it a day.
We very much enjoyed our stay in Beijing. It is an enormous, impressive city packed full of sites worth visiting. It felt as though we only scratched the surface. Helena and Liu were fantastic, the hotel was first rate (Bizzy grooved on the opportunity to eat Chinese noodles for breakfast). And now we feel relatively acclimated to China and ready to meet Charlotte.
Hi Maura, Chuck and Bizzy! This is Priscilla (Davis). I don't know if you saw Amy's comment, but yes, Pete is back in Beijing as of Sunday night (I think it's Sunday? I get the days confused!). If you are still in Beijing - though it sounds like you may be gone - he's staying at the Great Wall Sheraton, phone 86 10 6590 5566. He comes back to the US the day before Thanksgiving, only a couple of days from now.
ReplyDeleteI just love that you happen to be there at the same time! I'd say it's a very good omen - nothing but good can come from both ventures!
It's wonderful to be able to follow along on your journey. It's quite a place! I can't wait to see pictures of Charlotte. She is one lucky girl to be joining your family.
Best wishes and love -
Priscilla (Soya)