Beijing. Ming Tombs. Stairs, carvings, snow and ice. It'd snowed the day before in Northern China and Beijing and this day the wind was blowing and it was cold. This is in the outskirts of Beijing, about a 30 minute or more drive. It's hilly and there were orchards on the way. It's a big contrast from the bustling City!
The buildings are large, cavernous, cold and ornate. These are just a few of the buildings in the complex that is the Ming Tombs. There are burial places for 13 of the Ming Dynasty emperors, and they are scattered in amongst the hills and vales. We just went to one of the emperor's tomb areas that contained his big statue and some jewelry, artifacts, relief map of the area and some other displays and such. Even a model boat. Apparently they were sailors, too! Who knew?
The buildings are open, contain massive pillars. It's made of wood with glazed yellow tiles on roof. Yellow and Gold are the emperor/royal colors.
The steps, cold and walking were a bit much for my Mother-in-law, so she sat in a sunny spot out of the wind and out of the shady, cave-like building while I wandered through to see the exhibits.
These are drums. They were used in the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Olympics in 2008.
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Okay, what did I miss? Did I know you were going to China? WHAT???? Sandi's daughter Jessica is going to China in the Fall to teach English. She's so excited! Well, now I have to take a break. I will get back to reading the rest of this exciting adventure later. Fun!
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