The Gate

Qian Men, a straight walk down from Tian An Men Square, used to be a defensive tower and it also served to separate the forbidden city from the commoners. Today, Qian Men is nothing more than just another shopping spot for tourists on the go for cheap souvenirs.

The main artery of Qian Men is still somewhat under construction. From what I heard, after the restoration project, Qian Men should resemble the old beijing. The smaller side lanes are still opened for exploration though. Lots of small little shops to check out!

Qian Men

Like Shanghai-Tan

Along the walk down towards Qian Men, we chanced upon an enclave of very "atas" international restaurants. Each individual building houses one restaurant.


We came across this nice textured old wall, and we decided to do some sartorialist act, since xq was in her very electrifying blue stockings! (invited lots of stares from the locals)