Hwachong BSC 2008-2009: Forbidden City and Jingshan Park

Today was truly a memorable Saturday for many of us, as we relished the opportunity to visit one of Beijing’s most popular historic splendors, the Forbidden City – 故宫. After that, we crossed over to the park opposite the Forbidden City, 景山公园, where the scenery was breathtaking with especially fresh air.

We first arrived at the entrance of Tiananmen where Chairman Mao’s large portrait was proudly displayed in front of the hundreds of people there. We started walking straight until the front entrance of the Forbidden City (午门) came into sight.

Adorned with intricate gold designs, it was indeed a majestic sight. As we walked through the enormous doors of the entrance, we noticed that it was dotted with similar golden balls, 81 in all. After which, we explored the entire landscape where we saw countless pavilions and courtyards, each of them having a specific purpose for the emperors who lived in the Forbidden City.

(ignore the CCTV.)

I found the emperor’s throne rather unique. The predominant color inside was golden yellow, which to me, made the throne look very grand, a place exclusive only for the person with the highest authority in the whole country. Pu Yi, who ascended to the throne at the age of 3, was one of the famous emperors who once sat on this throne.

Another place that was slightly more memorable was the 乾清宫 (Qianqinggong). Official meetings were conducted in this very pavilion. The words “正大光明” stood out just beneath the ceiling, reminding the officials to be fair in any decision they make. Just like any other pavilion, many precious ornaments were arranged in seemingly perfect symmetry inside.
I thought that these were the more outstanding places within the Forbidden City. Besides these two more prominent pavilions, others served different purposes for the emperor, such as the Hall of Union and Peace (where grand ceremonies were held).

We left the spectacular place with indescribable awe and satisfaction, not only because of its majestic beauty, but also because we were able to experience six hundred years of history right before our eyes.

We then crossed over to the Jingshan Park –景山公园, to experience the breathtaking scenery. As expected, we were not let down as we entered and explored the park. Along the way, we paused at a specific tree where the last emperor of the Ming Dynasty hanged himself. Also, at the peak of the hill, we were greeted by a panoramic view of the place where we left not too long ago, the Forbidden City.