November 24, 2014 Monday
Beijing, China
Clear Crisp Blue Skies
Well, started this post in Beijing and am just finishing it now. Today is Dec 6 and I'm back home in Tokyo. Had a great time in China (first time as a tourist) and the trip made me eager to learn more about the history. Even today, one can see the impact of the Cultural Revolution if you pay a lot of attention. For example, the parents of my guide in Xi'an, Susan, met because her father was sent to Xi'an to teach (he was a doctor). And you see remnants of China's rich history everywhere. Looking forward to my next trip which will be for New Years and to Shanghai.
And here's what I did on my last day in Beijing. Did a rickshaw tour of the last Hutongs that are fast disappearing in Beijing. My last day was a glorious day. Bright blue skies! And beautiful clouds! Here are some pics.
Was greeted by a Hutong dog
We visited a traditional house that belongs to a upper middle class family
And finally saw bicycles!
Mug shot of our rick shaw driver against the "happening" section of the hutongs. Local restaurants are now chi chi bars and nightclubs.
The old post office
My Beijing guide Lily in front of the post office
Singing lessons
The Drum Tower
Babies were out playing with the traditional pants where there is a "hole" strategically located for bathroom time
Rare site in Beijing: Protest against being forcibly moved from their homes in the hutong
Most homes do not have a toilet so they use the public toilet. At night they use a pot like what the lady is carrying.
Old bicycle
Old car?
Beijing at her best