Today I was solo, and decided to go visit the Lama Temple which is north of where we are staying. I took Beijing's underground metro for the first time and was thankful for my previous experience in London. Actually I started my visit at another site which I paid to enter, and have no idea what it was, but soon realized it wasn't a temple...no statues or incense. I changed direction and continued to ask people and show pictures of the temple until I reached its entrance. Before reaching the temple there are many, many incense shops like the one above. People buy incense to burn in front of the many buddhist statues as an offering while they pray.
Originally a palace for Prince Yongzheng in the late seventeenth century, it was transformed into a temple in 1723 when he became emperor. Photography of the many statues of Buddha is prohibited. They were beautiful to see. One is 85 feet tall and carved out of a single block of sandalwood.
One thing I have definitely noticed, everyone is so friendly. Even when they don't speak English, they try to help. That hasn't always been the case in other places we have visited. So far, I am really enjoying our visit. Tomorrow...the Forbidden City with Jack.
I am really impressed that you got around on the metro by yourself. I never did see an entrance or came near one. Were any signs in English? Would you drop me a line and remind me where you are staying so I can look on my map and compare. We would have liked to tour the Olympic arenas, especially the CUBE because of our swimmers. They were working on it at a frantic pace when we were there in early July and were not allowed in.
ReplyDeleteLynn
Exciting! We're watching :). Please report on the weather.
ReplyDeleteWow, I am proud you were able to get around by yourself! I think I would have given up and gone back to the hotel. It sounds like you guys are having such a great time! Jordan and I can't wait to hear all about your adventures when you get back:D
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