Friday, March 14, 2014

Day 3: VIDEO BLOG - Ming Dynasty and Qing Dynasty Bell Tower


Day 3: Rickshaw Ride to the Beijing Hutong district

After walking several miles through the massive Forbidden City, we took a rickshaw ride to the Beijing Hutongs - old traditional houses arranged around one or more central courtyards. Many have been cleared for new concrete and glass structures but quite a few remain despite this being the capital of one of the fastest growing countries in the world.

Our guide had arranged for us to meet and have lunch with a local family to experience how they live.  While there, we learned how to make traditional Chinese dumplings (and then ate them).  We also were taught the art of traditional Chinese paper cutting.

We had fun and a welcome rest of our feet after walking around the Forbidden City with a rickshaw ride around the Beijing Hutongs












We learned how to make Chinese Dumplings from scratch before lunch before tasting their cooking.

After lunch we learned the art of Chinese paper-cutting

Lastly, we had a test of skill and creativity - painting Chinese Snuff Bottles

Day 3: VIDEO The Forbidden City, Beijing

Day 3: Tian An Men Square, Beijing


Day 3: National Opera House, Beijing





Evening 2: Wang Fu Jing Night Market

Wang Fu Jing is a famous market in Beijing and popular with tourists and locals at night time.  It was a great opportunity to develop some Chinese shopping and bargaining skills. 


Day 3: Magnolia blossom


Our First Blooms: Magnolia blossom.  Spring has arrived in China!



Day 2: Peking Duck

Our Peking Duck Dinner at Datong Restaurant

Day 2: VIDEO BLOG - Beijing Olympic Stadium

Great Day! We brought our great Colorado weather to China. It was bright and sunny and perfect for photography and the odd video.