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Beijing

In May 2001, I visited China on two trips. Here are some photos from the visit to Beijing.

This trip was take after visiting the Three Gorges region. It was educational to see the contrast between the two places. Beijing is presented as the shining jewel of China’s modern economic growth and development. But that growth is not everywhere, and there are great contrasts in the country. When we were there, they were preparing the city for the 2008 Olympics. Unfortunately, these pictures don’t tell that story, they just show the pristine face of Beijing.

Beijing Park
Beijing Park

Lama Temple

Our second stop was at the Lama Temple, well guarded by lions.

Lama temple lion statue
Lama temple

The Lama Temple is the most renowned Tibetan Buddhist temple outside of Tibet.

Lama temple
Lama temple
Lama temple buildings
The buildings in the Lama temple once served as a royal palace
Lama temple
Building decoration at Lama temple
Prayer wheels
Prayer wheels
Bell
Bell at the Lama Temple

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City
Well preserved architecture
The Forbidden City
Grand designs for the Emperor
The Forbidden City
Classic Ming architecture
The Forbidden City
Tourists in the FOrbidden City
The Forbidden City
Intricate design on the ceiling
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City
The Forbiden City north wall looking south
The Forbidden City
Roofs of the Forbidden City
The Forbidden City
Modern life outside the gates of the Forbidden City

Beijing

Tianamen Square
Monument in Tiananmen Square
Food market
Food markets (for the tourists)
Rehersals
Practising for a parade
Tiantan
Tiantan
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square
Tianamen Square
Beijing street
Bicycles still abound in Beijing
Ride and park
Bicycle parking
Factory
Inside a factory (obligatory tourist stop)
Peach tree
Peach tree

The Great Wall

Great Wall
The base of the Great Wall at Juyong Guan
Great wall
Many people want to climb the wall
Great wall
The wall from the top
Great wall
The wall continues in the distance
Great wall
There are less crowds at the top

Summer Palace

Summer Palace
Bridge inside the Summer Palace
Summer Palace
Crossing the late at the Summer Palace
Summer Palace
Grand buildings at the Summer Palace
Marble boat
The Marble boat at the Summer Palace
Summer Palace
The long walkway at the Summer Palace
Summer Palace
A quiet spot at the Summer Palace
Summer Palace
The lake at the Summer Palace