30! Lama Temple, Hutongs, Duck & train to Xi'an
Trip Start
Oct 08, 2010
1
9
16
Trip End
Oct 22, 2010
Where I stayed
Z53 train to Xi'an
Beijing, China
Friday, October 15, 2010
First stop Lama temple. Lots and lots of Buddha statues. Had a quick look around. To be honest, after Angkor Wat, its hard to be impressed by temples. I think I am all templed out. Had a look around the shops, which all sold incense for the worshippers and little offerings.
Headed over to the old part of Beijing, the Hutongs. Narrow little streets with old single story homes. They used to be little homes with their own courtyards, but now many houses share the courtyard and 'washing facilities’. We had a rickshaw ride around the lake. The guide then showed us around on foot, including the river. In summer its abuzz with bars and restaurants and in winter the river freezes and people ice skate on it!
We had a look around and then went to a local home for lunch. Was surprised by a big birthday cake! Another celebration. The food was very nice, mushroom, potato dish, stir fried cabbage and noodles (a must on birthdays).
A little rest back at the hotel and then check out. Read for a while in the lobby and drank jasmine and peonie tea.
Dinner at Quan Ju De, the big one. Peking duck - yum! Then Z53 overnight train to Xi'an. Train was fine. The waiting was better once we went into the VIP section. The train carriage had four sleepers and it was a little noisy/rolly/hot. Prefer to fly.
