Tuesday 11 November 2008

Day 3 - A summer surprise

The Summer Palace was today's treat.  Set in sprawling grounds (719 acres) on the edge of Lake Kunming, the palace was the imperial retreat during the Qing Dynasty from the hot summers in the Forbidden City.


Most memorable for me was the walk along the Long Corridor, a covered walkway whose beams are decorated with over 14,000 scenic paintings. 





The sun shone beautifully for us as we strolled along the corridor, soaking up the atmosphere which although busy was strangely calming.





At the end of the Long Corridor our chariot awaited us... well, not exactly a chariot, more a dragon on water - the boat which was to take us all on a short cruise across Lake Kunming before lunch.





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