Thursday, November 8, 2007

Summer Palace

Yesterday, Ellie and I visited the Summer Palace. The 2.5 square Kilometer compound on the outer edge of the city was where emperors used to come to escape the summer heat of Beijing. The majority (3/4) of the palace is covered by a lake with a few small islands each featuring a temple or pavilion. The remaining ground features a prominent hill dotted with beautiful courtyards, temples, gardens, and pavilions all have great names: Tower of the Fragrance of the Buddha (pictured), Pavilion of Multi-Layered Greenery, Pavilion of Forgotten Desires and Accompanying Clouds, Hall of Happiness and Longevity. Unfortunately many of the buildings have gone uncared for the same way others we've seen around Beijing have with noticeable chipped paint and exposed wood. Fortunately though that didn't detract from a great day wandering through what is deservedly a UNESCO world heritage site.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Loving your blogs, Guys! It must be incredible to be there because It's cool just reading about it and seeing pix of you there. You're doing a good job keeping us up with the sights, sounds, smell, and even feel of China. So glad you're loving it.xo, maaaaa

Anonymous said...

Lucky you to have had Ali & Gabe who's help and hospitality have given you such a great start on your voyage. Love your pictures and you too. xo, maaa