| | |
|  | Beijing sometimes seems like a vast anthill. One of its most vibrant neighborhoods, the "Old Chinese City," is a charming mishmash where getting lost is fun!
Shopping
Head for Dazhalan Street and its maze of stalls. Go into Goubuli, a neighborhood institution, for steamed buns, or the Zhang Yi Yuan Tea Shop, the biggest supplier in town. The listed façade of Ruifuxiang sets off the gorgeous fabrics inside.
Temple of Heaven
Next go to this UNESCO World Heritage site. Its three circular, blue-roofed temples are an allegory of the heavens. A masterpiece! |
| | |
|
|
|
|  | |  |
| | The Huguang Guild Hall
In the evening, catch a show at this former residence from the late-Qing Dynasty, restored in all its splendor. Even without understanding the language, the show is worth it. Visit the small museum dedicated to old theatres of the capital; notes are translated in English.
Yuting market
This market speaks to the Chinese passion for birds and flowers. Bird lovers swoon over parrots and cockatoos, listen in rapture to a white sparrow singing, buy a clutch of pigeons that'll streak through the city sky. In short, a place of happiness. |
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
| | | |
|
|
|
|
