Sites of China

After hardy breakfast this morning (both Chinese and American offerings), we heading out to the Temple of Heaven to see where Ancient China prayed to and thanked the gods for good weather and harvests. We began this visit with a lesson in Tai Chi (or taiji) where we learned the slow, contrasting movements that emphasized balance and opposition. We welcomed this opportunity to warm our already chilled bodies (temperatures were quite brisk and the wind could be brutal at times). We finished the morning with a tea tasting where we tried five varieties, almost all of which were delicious and sweeter than anticipated. We feasted on Chinese noodles and other tasty treats at lunch before focusing our attention on Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Although we didn't see all 9,999 rooms, we did get a great impression of this imperial palace. Tomorrow we'll tour hutungs via richshaw, visit our exchange school and see the bell tour.