Beijing, my hometown, the city I love

I was born in the city of Beijing in early 70s and spent most of my days there before moving to USA in late 90s. Though I have been to many cities since then, Beijing always holds a special place in my heart. I went back in fall 2007 to see my family after almost ten years away from her. It is a city with lots of changes since I left, and still changing. But walking in the same streets, old memories rushed back to me and brought tears to my eyes. It might be crowded, it might be polluted, but it's my hometown, the city I always love.

Here I share some photos with you. It was a short trip so I couldn't go to many places. I hope you like them and see Beijing through my eyes, even just briefly.

Well, I better start from the very beginning. This is a typical Hutong in Beijing. I grew up here. It was at least one third wider when I was a child.

Wangfujing Street - one of famous shopping streets. The name means "aristocratic residence" and "water well" because aristocratic estates were built in here and a sweet water well was discovered in Qing Dynasty.

Wangfujing Cathedral - a historic Catholic cathedral located north of Wangfujing Street.

Capital Theatre - celebrated 50th anniversary. I like its plain architectural style.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests in Temple of Heaven was built from 1406 to 1420, completely wooden, no nails used.

A closer look.

Now here is my favourite place in Beijing - Beihai Park. It's an imperial garden to the northwest of the Forbidden City.

Lotus flowers cover half of the lake.

Steps to White Dagoba in Beihai Park.

Belt river around Forbidden City and a corner tower.

One of the 980 buildings in Forbidden City.

 Another one.

The throne in the Hall of Preserving Harmony.

 Elephant - a symbol of energy, strength, and power.

Qilin - A good omen brings "serenity" or "prosperity".

That's a wrap. Hope you enjoy the pictures as much as I do. Thanks.