The Forbidden City

Today we visited the Forbidden City in the heart of Beijing! It was an awesome trip. Before we went I didn't understand why it is called a city but now I do; it is HUGE!! We spent about 5 hours walking around and we still didn't see the whole thing. It was beautiful to see the ancient halls and palaces where the emperor used to live and rule China. The thrones that they sat one were beautiful and so intricately decorated. I certainly wouldn't mind being an emperor of China in ancient times! There was a beautiful garden in the back of the Forbidden City as well. There were many old plants and trees. There was even a tree called the "Love Tree" that started growing as two trees and joined to form one tree. It was really cool.

One of the halls at the Forbidden City

We also visited the Gallery of Treasures which had all the ancient jewlery from the emperors and empresses as well as other artifacts from the ancient dynasties. After the city we explored Tiananmen Square which is right outside the Forbidden City. It is a huge plaza in the middle of the city. It was amazing. At the south entrance to the square is a huge gate that in ancient times was used for the defense of the city. It was a really good day and we saw a lot of amazing things.

The group in Tiananmen Square!

Zai jian!