Beijing has been on my bucket list for a long time, and as a history nerd it is a great starting point for delving into China's imperial past and its ancient traditions. So after a few days in Shanghai, I spent a good week in the capital taking in some of its most renowned historical sights. If you're thinking of visiting Beijing and it is your first time, be sure to check them out! 

But first a little history about Beijing. Beijing has been the capital city of China since the Ming Dynasty, after the third Ming emperor moved the capital from modern day Nanjing to Beiping, which he later renamed to Beijing, meaning northern capital. Thus most of the imperial architecture and imperial gardens are remnants from both the Ming Dynasty and the subsequent Qing Dynasty. Almost every local I spoke to had a story of Beijing passed down from their ancestors; stories about the Imperial family, lost treasures and much more. 

Yuanmingyuan Park

Jianbi Pavilion, Juchi Lake.

First stop is Yuanmingyuan Park or the Old Summer Palace. It was the Imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty from Emperor Qianlong and his successors, and also a place where the Emperor conducted state affairs, received foreign dignitaries and held various ceremonies. The entire park consists of three main gardens:

- Garden of Perfect Brightness (Yuanmingyuan)
- Garden of Eternal Spring (Changchunyuan)
- Elegant Spring Garden

Ever since I was a child, I heard stories about the grandeur of the Yuanmingyuan gardens, its collection of both Chinese and European-style gardens and perhaps its most famous attraction – the Western-style mansions/palaces and fountains in the Garden of Eternal Spring, hence it was once known as the 'Versailles of the East'. However, very little of the original architecture survived after British and French sackings during the second Opium War, which led to the eventual burning of the entire park that lasted up to three days. 

What survived the great fire of Yuanmingyuan are the stone ruins of the Western-style mansions and pieces of what once were magnificent fountains and labyrinths. Though little remain, it still inspires and instils a sense of awe and pride in the Chinese people today. 

Ruins of Dashuifa Waterworks, Xiyang Lou.

Ruins of Haiyantang, Xiyang Lou.

The Summer Palace

Meridian Gate - Entry to the Forbidden City, Beijing

The only entrance into The Forbidden City is through Meridian Gate. Once inside, The Forbidden City is divided into two main courts; the outer court and the inner court. The outer court was where the Emperor once carried out formal duties, whilst the inner court was his private quarters and where all the Imperial women resided.

Hall of Supreme Harmony, The Forbidden City.

Bronze lion guard The Gate of Heavenly Purity.

The Bund (Wai Tan)

The Bund, also known as Wai Tan (Outer Beach) to the locals is a key Shanghai landmark. Though there is no sand and surf, its diverse architectural tones reflect the rich history of this cosmopolitan city. It is one of the city's most iconic locations, simply put – you cannot mention Shanghai without mentioning The Bund. 

Architecture on The Bund 

Heritage architecture along The Bund.

Today, most of these heritage buildings have retained their former use, others now house international fashion brands, luxury hotels and restaurants. Though most buildings are off-limits to the public but if book yourself a meal at No.1 Waitanyuan, the former British consulate and you may get a quick look through its grounds. 

No. 1 Waitanyuan.

View towards Garden Bridge.

Visible from the gate of No.1 Waitanyuan is the iconic Garden Bridge, one of Shanghai's most iconic heritage structures. It was the first steel truss bridge of its kind to be erected in the city and its construction was completed in 1907. On either side of the bridge are two distinct buildings; one being the Art Deco style Broadway Mansions Hotel and the other being the Russian consulate with its vibrant red roof tiles, The bridge has been featured in countless films and is also a popular spot for wedding photography!

Recommendation:
If time allow, definitely visit The Bund at night as well! The entire boulevard as well as Pudong comes alive with an endless display of neon lights.

Pudong

If modern architecture is your thing, then Pudong – Lujiazui Financial and Trade Zone is a must-visit! The latest addition to Shanghai's ever-changing skyline is the Shanghai Tower by Gensler and is currently the tallest building in China.  Its neighbours also include the World Financial Centre, Jin Mao Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower, and most are open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the sky deck that offers panoramic views of the Huangpu River and the harbour. 

Shanghai skyline – Lujiazui

Wai Tan is a must-see in Shanghai, even though I've been back countless times, its beauty never ceases to amaze me. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, food, shopping or simply just enjoying the view of the Shanghai skyline, The Bund has it all! 

If you've been to Shanghai, drop me a comment and let me know some the places you've visited. 

View of Shoin Drawing Room, Tenryuji Temple, Kyoto.

Tenryuji Temple & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

In my post Travel Japan – Tokyo Imperial Palace,  I wasn't able to tour the palace being on a Sunday. Well, this time I was fortunate enough to book a free guided tour of Kyoto Imperial Palace. The entire palace complex covers an area of approximately 27 acres, and consists of various buildings constructed in many distinct architectural styles such as the Shinden, Shoin and Sukiya styles. 

View of Shishinden from Nikkamon Gate.

Shishinden, is perhaps the most important and symbolic building within the Palace complex. It is constructed entirely out of timber with layers of Japanese Cypress bark covering its roof structure, it was once used for important ceremonies such as enthronements. In the forecourt, a Cherry Tree is planted to the east and a Mandarin Orange Tree is planted to the west. 

My recommendation:
If you're into history and traditional architecture, this tour is a must! If you want to step inside an ancient Japanese castle, Nijo-jo Castle is only about 15mins bus ride away.

The Golden Pavilion

The Golden Pavilion.

There's no mention of Kyoto without mentioning The Golden Pavilion or Kinkakuji, its name is synonymous with the city itself and its rich history. Unlike other Japanese temples, The Golden Pavilion is actually a Buddhist hall housing the relics of Buddha. Its surrounding garden and buildings were said to represent the Pure Land of Buddha in this world. The pavilion itself is constructed in the Muromachi period architecture, with gold foil covering the upper two levels and crowned with a golden phoenix.

Tip:
Make sure you get there early! By 9am, the line can be seen extending all the way out to the street. The area in front of the lake is rather small and crowded with people, so make sure you stake a good vantage point!

If you have time, The Silver Pavilion or Ginkakuji is also worth a visit. Though if you're expecting a building decked out in shining silver, you may be disappointed, however, its more humble architecture and surrounding gardens are worth a visit.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Last but not least is Fushimi Inari Shrine or Thousand Torii Gates located in southern Kyoto. It is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice – Inari. It is quite a spectacle to behold as you first enter the Torii gate covered trail to begin your 2-3 hour ascent up Mount Inari, so be prepared! Upon closer inspection, you will notice that the gates bear inscriptions of its donors ranging from private citizens or organisations. Along the trail, there are also many fox statues as they are believed to be messengers of the god Inari.  

Thousand Torii Gates.

Of course this is just but the tip of the iceberg, for Kyoto is a city steeped in history and culture. There were countless temples and shrines I visited on my trip and there are many more I would like to visit. Until next time...

If you've been to any interesting places in and around Kyoto, drop me a comment!

The last of the Cherry Blossoms, Takayama.

Moving on from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, I went in search of some Old Town vibes, and if you're like me who prefers a bit of tranquillity accompanied by some great scenery, history and local cuisine – Takayama, Gifu Prefecture is a must!

Takayama Old Town

Takayama is a city in the mountainous Hida region, about 4.5 hours (one way) from Tokyo. Though the trip may seem long, it is a scenic one, especially on the JR Hida Limited Express from Nagoya bound for Toyama, the train winds its way through river valleys offering panoramic views of the countryside.

Takayama city itself is relatively easy to navigate, it has a series of bridges along the Miyagawa River, each in its own district. The Nakabashi Bridge in Kawaharamachi is the most recognisable and one of the main bridges leading into Old Town. I was fortunate enough to catch the last of the Cherry blossoms in full bloom along the river's edge and along many of the quiet side streets where you can get a glimpse of the locals as they go about their day.

Nakabashi Bridge, Takayama.

Old Town, however, is a hub of activity, from tourists to local merchants selling anything from souvenirs to locally brewed sake. The narrow streets of Old Town (Sanmachi Suji) is lined with traditional timber buildings and houses dating back to the Edo period, and once served as a merchant town of Takayama and hence it is also known as 'small Kyoto in Hida'.

My recommendation:
Grab yourself some fried Hida beef patties or grilled mochi skewers and stroll the length of Old Town. You can also sample sake and miso soup from local vendors.

Shop lined streets of Old Town, Takayama.

Grilled mochi skewers.

Takayama Jinya

Takayama Jinya.

Not far from Old Town is the Takayama Jinya, a one-time branch office of the Edo government from 1692-1868. If you're interested in a bit of Japanese history and traditional architecture, it is definitely worth a visit since it is the only remaining building of its kind in Japan.

As you wander through many of its rooms and along the well-worn timber walkway, you get a good sense of how its inhabitants once moved along those exact corridors as they went about their daily business. The Japanese-style garden is the focal point within the complex, though visitors are not permitted to set foot inside the garden, but they are more than welcome to sit along the timber walkway and take in the tranquillity of this Edo period garden.

Many of the buildings were restored in the mid-90s, however, the rice storehouses, conference room, front gate and entrance hall are still original. Unlike many other popular tourist spots, you can really take your time wandering through the halls of the Jinya.

Hida Beef

For me, Takayama really turns on its charms after sunset. when most of the tourist groups have moved on. The streets of Old Town are quiet, lanterns outside restaurants are lit and only a few scattered tourists here and there looking for places to eat, it makes you realise and appreciate why it is referred to as 'small Kyoto in Hida'. Many of the restaurants in and around Old Town are home-run, and if you peer through the lattice windows, the interiors are simple yet full of warmth.

Takayama at night.

A must eat when in Takayama is Hida beef, a specific name given to beef from Japanese black-haired cattle raised in the Gifu Prefecture for about 14 months, It has beautiful marbling and can be enjoyed either thinly sliced in Japanese sukiyaki or grilled with miso paste. If you can't decide, just have both for they are both very different dining experiences!

Hida beef.