Walk Seeing Sunday

Sunday was an intense day of sightseeing…or should I say sight-walking given the amazing amount of miles over which my legs faithfully carried me? So, in case anyone was wondering if China had inappropriately named The Forbidden City - I have the answer. Beyond any shadow of a doubt I can assure that while not forbidden (anymore), this place definitely a city - as in you could spend your whole life there and not know every neighborhood.
It is the most beautiful maze of spectacular gates and halls and throne rooms and courtyards ever. Its symetrical layout over so many miles is nothing short of amazeing (cue laughter?)


Above first is the main gate to the city, from which great processions (including elephants, advisors, concubines, eunics and others according to a guide) would herald an Emporer...crossing the pillared stone bridge that is towards the left side of the second picture (at right). Within the city there are endless streets, some lined with old-style lanterns, and giant vats for holding water just in case of fires (in the ancient times with dialing 9-1-1 was not quite an option). From the Hall of Military Prowess to the seat of the Dragon Throne and all the square courtyards of the nobility and royal attendants - the details on every roof and every gate are so striking (at left).

But the miles of walking were not over yet....after spending over four hours, basically the whole morning, at The Forbidden City, my team delegated to me the task of negotiating a taxi to The Summer Palace....and the walk-seeing continued...