Sunday, April 11, 2010

Olivia's Corner - Visit to a Hutong

Friday, we visited the drum tower and then took a tour through a traditional Chinese neighborhood. They are called Hutongs and the government has set aside a portion as protected to maintain the heritage of the area. We took a bike taxi because the roads are too small for most cars. Almost everybody in China rides a bike. 
 
The first stop was at a local home. The homes in the area consist of several buildings and courtyards surrounded by a wall. The buildings are bedrooms for the many generations living together, kitchen facilities, bathrooms, etc. The yards are divided into areas for play and gardens. They grow a lot of their own food and everyone shares. This home was owned by a nice lady in her seventies and her younger brother. All together 4 generations live in this home that has been in the family for over 500 years. That is over twice as long as the US has been a country! The people are the most friendly that we have ever met and were happy to show us their home.
 
This was a Great Day! Olivia

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