Stranded in Beijing and little time to sniff up the vibes? This could be your trip, at least it was ours. A mini introduction after our first touch down. Nutshell. The Lama Temple is located in the heart of the city, north of the cities equator. A beautiful and colorful complex with a feast of details on roof tops. A moment of tranquility as soon as you enter the compound. Smoke and the smell of ceremony. Welcome to Asia.
From here it is an inspiring walk to the next landmarks. Slowly we work our way to the main axis of Beijing. It is just a mile, but we zig zag through the lively hutongs, drinking tea, stopping for pictures, watching the street life. What a contrast.
Finally we reach the Bell and Drum towers. Siblings out of ancient stone and wood. A tourist place with a view. Take the steep steps upstairs and the panorama will unfold. Beijing in widescreen, live and direct. Look south and you will see the Forbidden City, look north to spot olympic stadium on a smoggy horizon. The towers, a stepping stone for things to come. Next stop? We will see.
-Matt.
Great that you got up close and personal with the ceremony & tradition. Lama temple now on my hotlist - great atmosphere in those first two squares!
Posted by: Geert | 01/21/2012 at 09:49 AM