Day 66: Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City

We began our adventures rather early this morning; we were so eager to get out there and take full advantage of all the city's wonders. I would love to write about each and every one, but there is far too much to tell and I am beyond exhausted to write it all out. So, I will write a few points about each event and briefly explain the day.

Our first visit was at to Tiananmen Square. I have heard so much about this place, but never thought I would ever be witnessing it first hand. Throughout the day, I kept having to remind myself that I was in Beijing, in China. It still doesn't seem real sometimes. Anyways, the square is as incredible in its beauty and it is in its size. Our group also saw Mao's (their famous emperor who is the face on their currency) preserved body. It was quite an ordeal to get into the building where he laid though. We went through a variety of different screenings, pat downs, and friskings to ensure that we had nothing on us. After a long wait in line, we entered the building and everything was so still. The people here really respect him, so it was interesting experience to be a part, and one I enjoyed as well.

Next, we went to the Forbidden city, which is directly across from Tiananmen Square. Basically it is series of many replicated buildings in a closed off area where the emperors of China lived hundreds of years ago. The "forbidden" part comes from the fact that it was closed off to the public for many years, but is now open travelers to explore. It was a beautiful sight to see; the architecture was outstanding and so intricate, and the buildings were massive. You could really spend all day walking around there, and still not cover everything.

After the forbidden city, we crossed the street and climbed up to a temple to see the Forbidden city and it's surroundings from afar, rather than from within. We found this enormous golden Buddha, that said "no photos" under it, so naturally I snapped a few. We also came across this vendor near the top who allowed people to dress up in Chinese traditional clothing and take all the photos they want in them. As soon as Courtney and I saw this lady, we were beyond thrilled and decided to be a part of it all and got geared up. We had quite the attire on, but it was such a fun experience.

Lastly, we went to this street market, which seemed to be several miles long. Our dwindled group shopped around the little markets, and ate some fun street food. One that I tried was deep fried scorpion, or some kind of critter that looked like a scorpion. I can't say it was my favorite thing, but it was something I happy to claim that I have tried.

Throughout out shopping adventure, I bought a few trinkets here and there, but the most exciting purchase of the day was my little ukulele. Court and I were splurging our money on really random things all day, so we figured this would be another appropriate purchase. I haven't the slightest idea on how to play it, but I am determined to learn at least five songs by the end of the trip. It is so tiny and cute, I just love it and I think it will be a good way to spend my spare time back in Zhongshan.

This trip is simply incredible, I can't even write all the minor and perfect details that have come along with it. I will just let my pictures do the rest of the talking.