The weather was horribly cold for someone like me who is accustomed to the hot and humid weather of Singapore. I had read in the news that the weather is always bleak and grey with lots of smog covering the city.
Since this is the first time I was there and only there for a short time, I am not sure if I am blessed or if the weather is just irratic.
In any case, I had experience the grey and smog filled placed upon my arrival to Beijing. I had thought that it would be that way throughout.
My first location to visit was the Yi He Yuan, Summer Palace. It was so hazy that nothing was clear and visibility was horrible but as the scenery was a lakeside view, it had created a wonderful atmosphere.
All the above are taken in Yi He Yuan. The lake was partly frozen and we can see some people walking on the lake. According to our tour guide, we were told that these people are risking their lives as the ice is not very thick yet.
The scene was really amazing though. The dreamy feel that I got gave me a feeling like I am looking at a painting.
Next we visited the Forbidden City. The weather cleared. We understand that once the wind starts to blow, Beijing will experience clear sky and better air. However, as it is now winter, the constant wind is quite unbearable to someone like me. I had taken lots of precaution to ensure that my clothing is sufficient and my gear is suitable. It is still feels too cold.
The door before entering the forbidden city main courtyard.
And here's what lies beyond the door. A magnificient sight to behold. A place where officials used to gather for their morning court sessions during the ming and qing dynasty.
Another Magnificent sight is the Great Wall of China. From the bottom, it looks pretty easy to climb up. When I started, I realised that the steps were high and uneven. Just a small section of the Great Wall is already a difficult climb for a city person like me. I climbed up several sections of the great wall almost reaching the peak of this small part of the great wall.
View was superb. Just seeing the great wall makes me wonder how these people could complete such a few so long ago.
There are still many interesting sights in Beijing. Though the city holds great historical value, it is changing at an alarming rate. The Chinese government had taken much effort to retain the historical sites to provide the Chinese and the world to see and feel a piece of the Chinese's magnificent past.
