Several schools have “strongly encouraged” not traveling over the October holiday. For many teachers, students, and by extension their parents, it means another holiday confined to Beijing’s borders. The good news is we live in a pretty vibrant and interesting city. So here are a few things that may be on your Beijing bucket list but you just haven’t gotten to yet.
The Forbidden City, Part II: The first time I went to the Forbidden City, I had no idea what I was looking at. I spent about five minutes being jostled and pushed by people trying to take photos of things that I assumed had historical significance, but frankly, had no clue what that significance was. After that, I walked through the rest of the complex as quickly as I could. I promised myself I would go back with a guide but just never got around to it. My Beijing tour leader of choice is Jeremiah Jenne with Beijing by Foot. I have had the privilege of visiting the Old and New Summer Palaces as well as the Llama Temple with Jenne, and all three were illuminating. Imagine your favorite college professor walking you through history in real-time. Check out the tour schedule at www.beijingbyfoot.com.
Cooking classes: I’m a foodie and I believe food is a glimpse into a culture, so if you haven’t already, check out the Hutong or Black Sesame Kitchen for great family-friendly cooking classes. Learn to make noodles, dumplings, or the regional cuisine of everywhere from Yunnan to Sichuan and even some spots outside China. Schedules are posted at www. thehutong.com or www.blacksesamekitchen.com.
Bee Brunch at Intercontinental: Okay, this one is not super cultural, but I love brunch and I rarely have time to go. An afternoon of free-flow champagne and unlimited dim sum in an elegant environment is perfect when you don’t need to rush off and get chores done before work on Monday. Scan the QR below for details and reservations.
Go for a hike: Beijing is massive and only part of it is a city. A good portion is beautiful landscapes and hiking trails, many with historical significance. Just last week I discovered there are mysterious cave dwellings less than two hours from my apartment. Who knew? Follow WeChat Id: BeijingHikers or WeChat Id: ChinaTravellers on WeChat for some amazing group hikes within a few hours of the city center.
Go to the Peking Opera or Acrobatic Show: Chinese theatre is very different from its Western counterpart and if you haven’t experienced it you are missing out. The Opera was amazing and even if they hadn’t provided translations (which they did) I would have had no problem following along. Join the CAT culture art tour group on WeChat at CAT Culture Art Tour for all the latest art, music, and theatre events in Beijing.
What’s on your Beijing Bucket list? Post ideas in the comments!
KEEP READING: Trading Bullets for Books: An Educator’s Extraordinary Journey
Images: Unsplash
