Tian Amen Square & The Forbidden City

The front of Tian Amen Square





The middle of the Square

Today we were up and moving onto our next stop in Beijing. We had a short flight and then drove about an hour into the city. Our first stop in Beijing was Tian Amen Square.




The front entrance of the Forbidden City




The military stood on guard, inside the entrance there was a large military appearance because a number of soldiers live here.




Dr. Riley and our Tianjin host Sal.




We got off the bus and walked through the square to the other end where the Forbidden City is located. We met up with a tour guide who walked us through the City.




These soldiers were practicing their stance.




This little boy wanted to be just like this soldier.




The main gate of the Forbidden City




View from Tian Amen Square




There is only one River in the Forbidden City, the Golden River, it is there to protect the area from fire. There is a marble path that runs through the city that was only for the Emperor. Anyone else found on the path was beheaded. The Empress was only allowed to walk on the path one day of her life, her wedding day. The center gate is also only for the Emperor as well.





The building on the left was only used three times a year for the biggest Chinese holidays.








The buildings must have 3 tier of marble due to Buddhist tradition.





Dragons are a pillar of Chinese culture.





This is the couple tree, because two trees form one at the top.








Our tour guide Jade gives the group some direction and information about the history of the city that is more than 600 years old.



One of the many thrones in the city.





Kristen, Mark, Codie, Nikola and Brandy

The view as we left the Forbidden City.

Waiting for the rest of the group outside the city.




Walking to the bus, after a long day.




The pond behind out hotel at sunset.



Bridget, Jake and Rob wait for others to walk over to dinner.


After visiting these two places we drove through Beijing and were off to Tianjin where we would stay for the evening. About 2 1/2 hours later we arrived at a remote business training center where we were the only people staying there. This hotel was located relatively close to the Great Wall, so it was an easier commute for our trip tomorrow. The grounds of this hotel were filled with gardens, a pool, a bowling alley, and a dance club. As hesitant as we were when we first arrived, the evening ended up to be a success. So far Tianjin is much different than where we've been. As our trip is quickly wrapping up, we all are eagerly awaiting the Great Wall in the morning.