Lu Gou Qiao, China

Lu Gou Qiao - Marco Polo Bridge - it is said that this is the oldest bridge in Beijing. A historical bridge where a full scale war from Japan was launched. It was said that the bridge is lined by 485 carved stone lions, and each carving is different. At each side of the bridge, are carved inscriptions by Emperor Qianlong. Clearly, some of the stone lions have been restored, but the grey cobbled walk-way and remnants of the multiple bullet holes are authentic.

Other than this one bridge, there is really nothing much to see around this area. Not a must-see in Beijing, only if you have the time to travel about 30-40 minutes each way to the bridge. And time spent at the bridge is less than 40 minutes to stroll across and back, with photo-taking.

Diao Yu Tai in BJ

Management conference this year was held at a villa situated at the foot of Fragrance Hill.
It was a very secluded and serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Some of us also took a climb up the Fragrance Hill, while the lazy ones took the cable car ride!

Highlight of the conference was a dinner at Diao(4) Yu(2) Tai(2). Enclosed in a very well-guarded compound, the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse is reserved for the exclusive use of foreign dignitaries, accessible only through a private-use highway which is off-limits to the regular urban traffic. A very rare opportunity, thanks to our GM and a very resourceful RA mgr who knows the right people to arrange for this elaborate dinner celebrations. Many of the locals have not even been here, or will never get a chance to come in their lifetime, the same goes for me!