We went to Tian'anmen Square and The Forbidden City and The Summer Palace today. It's true what they say, Chinese people love the novelty of Americans. I had a bunch of people ask me to take a picture with them. Everyone seems to think I was asked more because I have red hair.
The Forbidden City was fascinating. Apparently for centuries, the only male allowed inside the city was the emperor. His own sons had to leave the city as soon as they turned 10. So inside this city (and I mean city, it's freaking huge) was one man, and hundreds of women (his wives, and concubines). The city was only opened to the public this century. Even today, there are many rooms, like the Empress' bedroom, and the throne rooms, that are still no access. I was really difficult to try to get close enough to look in, there were so many people pushing their way in.
We went to lunch at a buffet style restaurant (which so far was my favorite) and then afterwards we went to a Pearl Market, where we were given a lecture on how to tell the difference between fake and real pearls, and then of course we were shown the jewelry. I luckily walked out of there only buying some facial cream and a bracelet. I believe Caryn spent about $200 (American) in there.
Right after that we went to the Summer Palace. It was beautiful. It's right on the lake. It has a beautiful Buddhist temple. We got to see the infamous Marble Boat the Dragon Lady had sanctioned, which cost China its Navy. Apparently, the mother of the Emperor, the Dragon Lady, was the Empress because her son was only 5. She also loved power and beautiful things. She had the Marble Boat built, taking all of the money for the Navy, leaving China without protection. Crazy.
Neil and I have been sharing his camera, recording each other in each spot. Can't wait to see all of the footage, and start working on it.
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