"Keeweechic's Beijing" a Beijing Travel Page by keeweechic

Beijing City, capital of the People's Republic of China, and is the countries political centre as well as holding as the centre for education and cultural activities. Located in the northeastern part of China, Beijing is also a key transport hub. There are many attractions of historic interest including the Forbidden City which is the largest and best-preserved ancient architectural compound in the world. The Temple of Heaven is where Emperors Ming and Qing carried out formal rituals for abundant harvests. The beautiful Summer Palace was the emperors' wonderful garden haven. Just the beautiful gardens and parks of Beijing provide the contrasting scenic beauty.

There are many tours available but one of the best things to do is just walk around the city and explore both during the day and more especially at night when a few of the attractions like Chairman Mao's Mausoleum are lit up. In summer the nights are still very warm and most people sit outside. The women in groups talking and the men sit playing their Chinese checkers. There was not a lot of street or shop lighting and most of the bikes and car were without lights and reflectors. Our local tour guide told us that women were not allowed to drive cars over the age of 35. I'm not sure if that's correct, or if that's changed, but that's what we were told. at the time.

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