China, How to describe the city of Beijing through its monuments, its history and its culture?

August 31, 2024

Beijing, in the heart of China, is a city where modern times and ancient traditions intertwine in a captivating way, creating an atmosphere that is both vibrant and mysterious. The air is filled with stories, legacies and an ever-present sense of change, while remaining anchored in its ancient roots. Dawn breaks over the Forbidden City, the historical soul of Beijing, shrouded in a light mist that slowly dissipates with the first light of day. Its golden roofs sparkle like shards of sunlight, while the rusty walls of the ancient fortress tell of the glorious past of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Each stone, each paving stone seems to whisper secrets to those willing to listen. The details of the undulating dragon, delicately carved on the tiles, and the historical frescoes that adorn the walls, hark back to a time when heaven and earth were seen as sacred entities, and emperors ruled with divine authority.

Leaving this majesty, one enters Tian'anmen Square. There, a vast expanse, fringed with centuries-old trees, spreads out in an impressive setting. The contrast between the grandeur of the open space and the buildings that surround it recalls the ambitions and tragedies of Chinese history. The Monument to the People's Heroes stands proudly, a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the fatherland, while an imposing image of Mao Zedong watches over the crowd, almost omnipresent and timeless. It is a place of meeting, meditation and excitement, where passers-by mingle with curious tourists, each bringing their own story, their own view of the world. A little further on, the Temple of Heaven is revealed, a masterpiece of architectural harmony and spirituality. The perfect circles and bright colors of this temple dedicated to harvest rites echo the symbiosis between humanity and nature. Here, the timed gates of the great festivals still resonate while, in its surrounding park, locals come to practice tai chi, sing ancient songs or simply meet in community. The smells of incense mingle with those of cherry blossoms, coloring the landscape with an almost palpable sweetness.

Speaking of sweetness, the Summer Palace stretches out like a living painting under the azure sky. The mirrored lakes and green hills invite contemplation and reverie. The ornate pavilions, like pearls, dot this majestic garden, seeming to emerge from fairy tales. The reflections in the crystal clear water, where the graceful silhouettes of the weeping willows are reflected, compose a work of art that breathes serenity, an echo of the simple pleasures sought by emperors in search of escape from the tumult of power. But Beijing is not just rooted in the past. In the stark contrast of its ancient heritage and modern glass facades, the Wangfujing district sparkles with contemporary energy. Department stores and shopping malls offer a striking blend of tradition and modernity, while street food stalls compete for appeal. The smell of grilled meat skewers, jianbing pancakes and durian fasts fills the air, and the laughter of passersby evokes the vitality of a city reinventing itself.

In the winding alleys of the hutongs, the real heart of Beijing beats with palpable intensity. The square courtyard houses with carved wooden doors tell a story of community solidarity and intimacy. The walls, sometimes peeling, are covered in colorful graffiti, a mix of historical and contemporary art that is part of a dialogue where the past confronts the future. Children play in the streets, while couples of old friends share laughter, playing cards on low tables while sipping fragrant teas.

A little further on, Beihai Park stretches out like a refuge from the bustle of the city. The gentle lapping of water on the lake evokes an almost palpable tranquility, while pedal-powered shuttles glide gently across the calm surface, taking paths that wind among willows and pavilions. The White Hill Pagoda stands like a beacon overlooking this haven of peace, inviting walkers to reflect on the eternal beauty of nature. In every corner of Beijing, every cobblestone street and every breath of wind whispers a story, intertwining with the others, weaving a complex and fascinating narrative. Beijing, with its blend of imperial grandeur and modern life, is a city that reflects the soul of a nation, a tapestry of intertwining colors, sounds and stories, where every visitor can lose and find themselves in the brilliance of its authenticity.

to have :

1. **Forbidden City**: **Tian'anmen East** subway station (Line 1) or **Tian'anmen West** (Line 1).

2. **Great Wall of China (Badaling)**: There is no subway station directly in Badaling, but you can take the subway to **Deshengmen** Station (Line 8) and then a bus or train to Badaling.