Beijing China: JINGSHAN PARK

Day 1 in Beijing: JINGSHAN PARK 
(Destination 1 of 6)

Our guide was scheduled to pick us up at 10:00am.  With adrenalin pumping, even with only four hours sleep, we were up and about at 7:00am to explore the nearby Jingshan Park on our own.

View of Forbidden City from Jingshan Park

This park is an artificial hill, created when a moat was dug around Forbidden City and the excavated ground was transferred to the area.  It then served as an imperial garden, where the emperor relaxed, not far from his seat of power.  It is overlooking the Forbidden City. 

Today, this is a public park where the elderly converge, socialize, sing old folk songs together, dance, do morning exercises and relax to their hearts' content.  It is an inspiring sight to see the elderly being able to still enjoy their retirement years.  The park is the perfect place for them as the air is fresh and place shady and cool.

My son, Hans, made a new friend, an elderly writing words on the ground.

Hans did the same, his new friend was so amused.

Next stop and which is actually the first part of our tour was Temple of Heaven.