Day 8: Exploring Dongcheng North

We took Beijing’s subway for the first time to Yonghegong Lama Temple where they provide free incense service for visitors. Three incense are burned at each temple for different types of prayers. The Tibetan Buddhism monastary is one of the few to survive the Cultural Revolution. 


 

We took a self-guided tour of Dongcheng's hutongs (alleyways). Many were once considered mansions for China's elite, but now they're a mix of retail and both high- and low-end residences.
We took a self-guided tour of Dongcheng’s hutongs (alleyways). Many were once considered mansions for China’s elite, but now they’re a mix of retail and both high- and low-end residences.
  


This fisherman was collecting seaweed from a small river near Maoer Hutong.
This fisherman was collecting seaweed from a small river near Maoer Hutong.

Sunset over Hoihai Park, a lively riverwalk area surrounded by bars and restaurants featuring live music.
Sunset over Hoihai Park, a lively riverwalk area surrounded by bars and restaurants featuring live music.

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