and marvel at roof decorations, massive marble terraces and
elaborately carved thrones in ceremonial halls.
Take another day to visit the area around Houhai Lake, first checking
out the ancient Drum Tower. Climb to the top for views of the city and
then catch a ride on a rickshaw (or pedicab) through the local hutong
nearby. Hutongs are alleyway neighborhoods where citizens have lived
since time immemorial in Beijing. Tiny doorways open into courtyard
homes, and at many you’ll be offered the chance to visit inside (for a
price, of course). It’s a fascinating look into traditional ways of living.
Of particular interest, notice the bathing and toilet facilities are often
shared in these neighborhoods.
After your hutong experience, stop and enjoy the numerous outdoor
cafes surrounding Houhai Lake. Choose one with an upstairs balcony
and you’ll have a great view of both the lake activities and the people
strolling below. It’s a lively area both during the day and in the
evenings, not to mention a beautiful green setting to relax in after a
day full of activities.
Chinese New Years Lanterns
Credit: iStock.com/Toa55
Zhengyang Gate
Credit: iStock.com/orpheus26
To see the famed Beijing Olympic Park, hop the subway at head to the
Green line, and take it to the Olympic Green stop. Beijing subways are
clean, inexpensive, easy to maneuver and so modern that you can
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