Beijing Sights July 28, 2007 (Day 8)

This morning we went to the historic Hutong section of Beijing. Hutongs (Mongolian word for water well) came into place during Yuan Dynasty (between 1279 and 1368) when Dadu was rebuilt, which later became Beijing. We took a rickshaw through the narrow streets or alleys and stopped at various places, including a market where we saw meat, vegatables, fruits, spices and other assorted items for sale.

Our next stop was outside a gate within the Hutong to learn about all the symbolism behind the various features, including exquisite brick carvings, varied-style drum stones which symbolize a military family living there. One can tell the status or socio-economic level of the family by the gate. We had lunch in a traditional Hutong home with the food made by the family. We really enjoyed ourselves.

After returning to the hotel, we took a walk to the grocery store area and Melanie, Ellen and Karen had foot massages or pedicures, while the guys walked around the shops several times. After another dinner of Chinese food, we all went to the Beijing Acrobat Show which was absolutely amazing - very much like a Cirque de Soleil type show. We were tired when we returned to the hotel so we all just hit our respective rooms and crashed for the night. Time seems to be racing right now and a lot more of the GWCA families are starting to arrive at the hotel.