The Forbidden City in the snow

A short clip from winter 2010 ...

[640],shadow=true,start=,stop=The Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing, China, is one of the most iconic and historically significant attractions in the country. Here's a guide for tourists visiting the Forbidden City:

History and Significance:
Imperial Palace: The Forbidden City served as the imperial palace and political center of China for nearly 500 years, from the Ming Dynasty (1368�1644) to the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644�1912). It was home to emperors and their households and served as the ceremonial and political center of Chinese government.

Architecture: The Forbidden City is renowned for its magnificent architectural design, featuring grand halls, pavilions, courtyards, and ceremonial gates. It exemplifies traditional Chinese palace architecture and design principles, with intricate decorations and symbolic elements.

Visiting the Forbidden City:
Layout: The Forbidden City is rectangular in shape and covers an area of about 180 acres. It is surrounded by a large moat and high walls, with four main gates: the Meridian Gate (south), the Gate of Divine Might (north), and the East and West Glorious Gates.

Highlights: Key attractions within the Forbidden City include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony, the Hall of Preserving Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the Palace of Earthly Tranquility, and the Imperial Garden. Each building has its own unique architectural style and historical significance.

Exhibitions: The Forbidden City houses an extensive collection of artifacts, artwork, and cultural relics from China's imperial past. Visitors can explore exhibitions showcasing imperial treasures, ceremonial objects, calligraphy, paintings, and ancient manuscripts.

Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the Forbidden City. Audio guides in multiple languages are also available for self-guided tours.

Tips for Tourists:
Tickets and Entry: Tickets to the Forbidden City can be purchased at the entrance gates or online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Opening Hours: The Forbidden City is open to visitors every day except Mondays. It is advisable to check the opening hours and plan your visit accordingly.

Comfortable Footwear: The Forbidden City is vast, and exploring its many halls and courtyards involves a fair amount of walking. Wear comfortable footwear and clothing suitable for walking and climbing stairs.

Respect the Rules: Follow the rules and regulations of the Forbidden City, such as no smoking, no littering, and no touching or climbing on the historic structures.

Photography: Photography is permitted in most areas of the Forbidden City, but some sections may have restrictions or require an additional photography permit. Respect any signage and guidelines regarding photography.

Cultural Insights:
Historical Significance: Take the time to learn about the history and significance of the Forbidden City, including its role in Chinese imperial history and its architectural symbolism.

Symbolism and Design: Pay attention to the architectural features, symbolism, and layout of the Forbidden City, which reflect Chinese cosmology, philosophy, and imperial authority.

Imperial Lifestyle: Explore the living quarters, ceremonial halls, and gardens to gain insights into the lifestyle, customs, and rituals of China's imperial rulers and their families.

Visiting the Forbidden City offers a fascinating glimpse into China's imperial past, with its grandeur, history, and cultural heritage preserved for visitors to explore and appreciate.

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A trip to the Hakka TuLou in FuJian province

The Hakka Tulou are unique, fortress-like buildings located in the mountainous areas of Fujian Province. These large, circular or rectangular earthen structures were built by the Hakka people, an ethnic group known for their migratory history. The Tulou are notable for their communal living spaces, defensive features, and remarkable architectural design. Who are the Hakka People? The Hakka are a subgroup of the Han Chinese, known for their migratory history and resilience. Originating from northern China, the Hakka migrated southwards over several centuries, settling in the mountainous regions of southern China. The name "Hakka" means "guest people," reflecting their history of migration and settlement in new areas. Hakka culture places a strong emphasis on education, family unity, and community cooperation. Despite facing hardships and displacement, the Hakka have maintained their unique cultural identity and traditions. Historical and Cultural Background Origins and History The construction of Tulou began during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and continued through the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) Dynasties. These buildings were designed to provide protection and communal living for large families or clans, often housing up to 80 families in a single Tulou. Cultural Significance The Tulou reflect the Hakka people's need for security and their communal lifestyle. The buildings are designed to be self-sufficient, with living quarters, storage areas, and defensive structures all incorporated into the design. The Hakka culture values family unity, and the Tulou are a physical manifestation of this principle. Architectural Features Design and Structure Tulou are typically large, multi-storied structures built with thick earthen walls that provide insulation and protection. The outer walls are made from rammed earth, mixed with stone, bamboo, and wood, making them extremely durable. The interiors are organized around a central courtyard, with rooms for living, storage, and communal activities. Defensive Capabilities The design of the Tulou includes defensive features such as narrow windows and a single, reinforced entrance. These elements were intended to protect the inhabitants from bandits and wild animals. The circular shape of many Tulou also allows for effective communication and defense within the building. Communal and Social Aspects Living Arrangements The Tulou were built to house entire clans, with each family having its own designated area within the structure. The central courtyard served as a communal space for social activities, celebrations, and meetings. This layout fostered a strong sense of community and cooperation among the inhabitants. Self-Sufficiency The Tulou were designed to be self-sufficient, with areas designated for food storage, livestock, and agricultural activities. This self-sufficiency was essential, as the Tulou were often located in remote, mountainous areas where resources needed to be carefully managed. UNESCO World Heritage Status Recognition In 2008, several Fujian Tulou were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This recognition highlights their architectural uniqueness, cultural significance, and historical importance. The Tulou are considered outstanding examples of communal living and defensive architecture. Conservation Efforts Efforts to preserve the Tulou focus on maintaining the traditional construction techniques and protecting the buildings from modern threats such as tourism pressure and environmental degradation. These efforts aim to ensure that the Tulou remain a living part of Hakka culture. Conclusion The Hakka Tulou are extraordinary structures that embody the resilience, ingenuity, and communal spirit of the Hakka people. These architectural marvels continue to stand as a testament to the Hakka's ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments. As both historical treasures and vibrant communities, the Tulou attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life. With How To Do? In China ...