Once Upon A Time in Beijing

People from all over the world congregated in Beijing, China, to celebrate the arrival of 2017 as the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2016. The city's cultural diversity and historical depth make it an intriguing stop for those in search of an unusual and memorable vacation. We went on a marvelous excursion in the days leading up to the big party, visiting magnificent palaces, the old Great Wall of China, a compelling performance, and the lively atmosphere of Wangfujing Street. Come celebrate with us the arrival of 2017 in the heart of Beijing as we recall our exciting experience.

Day 1: Exploring Beijing's Magnificent Palaces

Our adventure started off with a trip to Beijing's Forbidden City. As we entered through the massive gates, we were instantly transported to the imperial courts of the Ming and Qing eras. We were awestruck by the opulence of the emperors' residences and the intricacy of the courtyards. The colorful roofs and carefully crafted wooden buildings made exploring them a hypnotic experience.

Day 2: Conquering the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is an absolute must-see on any trip to Beijing. We went to Mutianyu, which is famous for its beautiful landscape and intact watchtowers. As we walked quickly along the winding wall, we were treated to stunning panoramas of the mountains and forests beyond. We felt a deep connection to the country's history and enduring spirit as we stood atop this historic wonder.

Day 3: A Captivating Cultural Experience

We went to a classic Peking Opera performance to learn more about Chinese culture. The fantastical costumes, skilled makeup, and beautiful singing took us back in time to the realm of myth and legend. We learned a lot about Chinese culture and were blown away by the performers' acrobatic and martial arts prowess. The Olympic Stadium, known as the "Bird's Nest," was another site we visited.

Day 4: The Vibrant Wangfujing Street

After spending several days learning about Beijing's rich history, we decided to experience the city's more contemporary side by visiting Wangfujing Street, one of the city's most renowned shopping districts. The bright lights, energetic music, and entertaining street performers created an electric atmosphere. We went on a daring gastronomic expedition and had some of the strange snacks that Wangfujing Street is famous for, such as scorpion skewers and fried silkworms.

The days leading up to the New Year's Eve celebration in Beijing were filled with cultural discovery and joyous revelry. The Great Wall of China, the magnificent palaces, the fascinating Peking Opera, and the pulsating Wangfujing Street all added depth to our appreciation of China's history. We felt honored to be a part of a worldwide celebration that goes beyond boundaries and unites people in the spirit of optimism and regeneration as we rang in the New Year amidst the pulsating energy of Tiananmen Square. The New Year's celebration in Beijing left an indelible impression on our hearts with its special charm and warmth.

Be well,

YRB