Day 3 Beijing…Imperial Majesty and Communist Grandeur

Day 3 began with a walk through Tian an Men Square, the world’s largest public gathering place. The square and surrounding buildings stand as monuments to the great people’s revolution of 1949. It is also well known, outside of China that is, for the 1989 protests staged here. The protests were quashed with overpowering force by the People’s Army and to this day most Chinese citizens have no clue that the protest ever took place. For many of the citizens present in the square today the highlight was likely the opportunity to have their pictures taken with the American students. While gathering to visit the Forbidden City our kids were treated like celebrities and asked time and again to pose with family members for pictures in the square.

From the square it was off to the Forbidden City. The sheer scale of the “City” is mind boggling. It just goes on and on for what seems to be an eternity. It is quite a contrast to the huge, but utilitarian facades surrounding the Square. Again, the architecture is beautiful, with ornate wood carvings, bright colors and bronze statues. It’s hard to imagine that it has been less than a century that the City has been open to commoners like us. Until the early 1900’s the only ones who were allowed to enter the walls of the City were the Emperor’s family, servants, and invited guests. Now 40 yuan buys anyone admission.

After the Forbidden City it was off to lunch and then an afternoon of shopping in the Silk Market. In contrast to the Dirt Market, the Silk Market is filled with new goods for incredible bargains…if you’re willing to barter. At dinner the talk was all about who got the best deal on a pair of sneakers or silk clothing. The kids also got a lesson in aggressive sales tactics as the vendors will start with flattery “handsome mister, you want a tie” to hook you and then the not so subtle arm grab to keep you. Only the strong survive but we all made it out with our selves and our wallets fairly intact.

The evening ended with Beijing Hotpot, where you cook your own meets, veggies and noodles in boiling water at the table. All seemed quite satisfied with both the food and the experience. Tomorrow the group splits into three for phase two… school visits. Keep posted for the updates from the various cities.