Beijing-Capitol of China

http://i757.photobucket.com/albums/xx216/davidwei01/11092711202e8316e57f6063a9_-526f-67.jpg

Please collect the very best pics of Beijing and post here.

Its heritage, modern structures and Olympics! :cheers:

Quoted pics from Foglio1986.

Welcome To beijing
1.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/6ae92796.jpg
2.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/2.jpg
3.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/144.jpg
4.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/4.jpg
5.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/431640129.jpg
6.
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/CBD1616286.jpg
7.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/19.jpg
8.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/8.jpg
9.
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/CBD578743.jpg
10.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/10.jpg
11.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/556429.jpg
12.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/12.jpg
13.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/77878-1.jpg
14.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/12539515.jpg
15.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/2587.jpg
16.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/16.jpg
17.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/17.jpg
18.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/2acc.jpg
19.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/19.jpg
20.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/811951.jpg
21.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/25.jpg
22.
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh242/star5200/22.jpg
23.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/f5259.jpg
24.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/2024b_b.jpg
25.
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/2730189.jpg
26.
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/77544.jpg
27.New CCTV building
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/21234.jpg
28.
http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii237/Baiqi1986/China3.jpg

I remember not so long ago theres a lot of these designer homes in Beijing somewhere near the Great Wall but I can no longer find them on the net. One of the house is made from Bamboo, it was even used in the Beijing 2008 logo promotional video. Anyone here have a clue where I can find that website or the pictures for it?

I thought it was called SoHo something, before this huge white SoHo in CBD was built. Hmm.

^^

http://www.communebythegreatwall.com/en/photo/default.asp?iclassid=87

^^

http://www.communebythegreatwall.com/en/photo/default.asp?iclassid=87


YAY! Thanks a lot.

For my 1,000th post, I would like to start a forum about the Chaoyang Park in Beijing.

Chaoyang Park is a public park located in the former site of the Prince's Palace in the Chaoyang District of Beijing, China. It is 2.8 kilometres in width and 1.5 kilometres in width and covers a total area of 288.7 hectares.

The park opened in the late 1980s. Since 2005, the beijing Pop festival is held here each September. A temporary 12,000-seat Beach volleyball stadium has been constructed for the 2008 Summer Olympics. A ferris wheel is also being built in the park that is 208 metres high and is scheduled for completion in 2009.

I just want to know what is going on with the largest ferris wheel. :)

I myself cannot view the location of the Beach Volleyball ground due to the outdated imagery (taken early 2005).

x-posting

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/f104b6b5.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/11f7013b29b.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/70.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/1cbf09e655.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/0721.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/10D.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/1B8.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/42643507.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/5632.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/7736.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/2040939.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/12539515.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/fd076.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/51728.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/850234.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/4698.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/742e7.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/19939608.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/998f09.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/727.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/12493.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/200711122183718622.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/22.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/86119.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/5972723.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/54545.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/fd710a7a.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/76587.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/7.jpg

Jianwai SOHU(建外SOHU)：
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/sohu4215814.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/SOHU6.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/SOHU3.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/SOHU4.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/SOHU5.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/SOHU1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/SOHU.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/sohu825159.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/817322.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/D0DE.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/22ea870d.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/33923798.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/043.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/212.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/233.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/A8.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/2EB.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/3F3.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/6CC.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/2142a75bb0.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/4560-1.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/6243.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/811951.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/59379.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/57551.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/4854036d.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/CBD0765364.jpg

by 新北京
http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/78610.jpg

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii151/520foglio2008/7390.jpg

from paikong, beijingupdates.com

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/2007102519314169280.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/2007102518574080939.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/2007102518585651059.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/2007102518593643880.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/200710251903127867.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/200710251905551905.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/20071025193628051.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/2007102519273296429.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-10/2007102519305212478.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/20083815211561217.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/20083815213380630.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/20083815222097062.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/20083815223180835.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/2008381523218647.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/20083815231868547.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/2008381524528216.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/20083815243745206.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-3/20083815251579824.jpg

Beijing National Theater (Beijing Dome)

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1151869.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1137518.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1173414.jpg

China's Wall Street -- Beijing Financial Street

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1196503.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1797651.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1159272.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1195649.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1193375.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1165165.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/upload/uploadfiles/org/2007-10-1128224.jpg

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/361/20080320ca3598d059ecc50op0.jpg

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/230/2008320239114595935b93fjs9.jpg

the old architacture is Beijing's soul.

Jiao Lou
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-5/2007528191649174.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-5/2007528191829227.jpg

Beihai
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2007-5/2007528192032649.jpg

Quoted pics

Zhongguancun area
http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/03/userid18900time20080327014903at61.jpg
http://photo1.bababian.com/upload9/20080325/2BAD4732C95A76C2D8B46AC3FB0C2A83_800.jpg
http://photo1.bababian.com/upload9/20080325/DD3A95684FB8BA96DE4CDA2A1C1736FC_800.jpg
http://photo1.bababian.com/upload9/20080325/0A5E332426E262774CFD35A8755E014E_800.jpg
http://photo1.bababian.com/upload9/20080325/7F64F264484F01B6924276B451159A68_800.jpg
http://photo1.bababian.com/upload9/20080325/16CAC9DD5A33A2AD7D9F86AF44B3D889_800.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/04/userid174909time20080422152704at99.jpg
http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/04/userid174909time20080422152856at4.jpg
http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/04/userid174909time20080422153025at16.jpg
http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/04/userid174909time20080422153126at100.jpg
http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/04/userid174909time20080422153310at28.jpg

:) (beijingupdates.com)
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200842513403640853.jpg

Fantastic, now this thread will be the best Beijing thread ever!

(beijingupdates.com)

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200841122471345780.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200841122322376921.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200841122322321659.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200841122322386227.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200841122322373992.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200841122322399481.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200841122412873390.jpg

http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/118/userid18900time20080426ir4.jpg

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/296/resizeof200842821413961sl2.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-4/200842822165911975.jpg

Amazing. Beijing is definitely ready for Olympics.

Beijing in foreigner's eyes
http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/3.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/2.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/4.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/6.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/7.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/8.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/9.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/10.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/11.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/12.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/13.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/14.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/16.jpg http://digi.qq.com/images/ld/0816/4/17.jpg

this unbelievable effort big-dog accumulating this amount of pics, beijing is more beyond than what i would've envisioned it

Wow, the pictures in #12 are simply stunning!

Does anyone recognize what the all glass building is?

(beijingupdates.com)

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506134558at99.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506140558.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506140354at18.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506142814at65.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506143027at33.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506143234at36.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506143416at73.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506143633at41.jpg

http://www.photofans.cn/uploads2008/05/userid174909time20080506143931at72.jpg

This is Beijing !

Enjoy !

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/photo/2008-05/07/content_6668508.htm

What a great thread! One of the best I've ever seen in SSC. I love this city so much, and maybe I'll have a chance to live there for 2 years. I'm just waiting some answers :).

As a contribuition, few wallpapers of the city for you:

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/546/beijing3wwwthewallpaperto0.jpg

http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/1691/beijing4wwwthewallpaperfv2.jpg

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/8004/beijing7wwwthewallpapermd8.jpg

I think I have more saved here, I can post them later If I find them. :)

驚奇! 有一些許多偉大的大廈在北京附近! 我傾斜等待看zhonggucuan區域，看起来日本的Shibuya区

^^你的中文很...可爱。:lol:

wow! any other pics around!?

from flickr.

CBD
http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/flickr/2.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/flickr/1.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/flickr/3.jpg

from Beijingupdates.com

Xidan
http://img65.imageshack.us/img65/9391/200853011483520366gl2.jpg

June 1
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-6/20086115311189750.jpg

Wangfujing Pedestrian
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-6/200861145176572.jpg

Jingbao street
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-5/200852822165473968.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-5/200852922225219431.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-5/200852822191161823.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200876815981734.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

http://img375.imageshack.us/img375/2486/64524629vr2.jpg

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/5844/63956814xp2.jpg

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/8151/12tc7.jpg

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/2035/23ji9.jpg

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/9375/26no1.jpg

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/600/46rf9.jpg

http://img362.imageshack.us/img362/2002/52xo8.jpg

http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/3148/70ul9.jpg

http://img234.imageshack.us/img234/3928/28ha3.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/080706/3/14.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/080706/1.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/080706/13.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/080706/20.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/080706/2/1.jpg

(cobble, beijingupdates.com)

^^Fantastic Beijing!

OMFG, wow! Those pictures are amazing! :uh: :bow: :eek:

This, certainly, goes to show that Beijing will "blow-the-senses" out-off the hordes of athletes, domestic tourists, foreign tourists, and spectators alike, once they get to Beijing for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games.

Beijing totally rocks, baby! :rock: :rock: :rock:

wowhwowowhwow
!!!!!!

Fuxingmen 复兴门 (West 2nd ring)

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000540.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000560.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000579.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000639.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000642.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000648.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000650-1.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/11/xinsrc_31207051110598281676439.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/11/xinsrc_32207051110591871775440.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/11/xinsrc_3220705111059656552041.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/11/xinsrc_33207051110590002756442.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/11/xinsrc_33207051110593431806443.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/11/xinsrc_33207051110596251892644.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/11/xinsrc_33207051110599841654845.jpg

OMG those are the best updates ever of beijing! i never realised how great the yintai building are and seeing the CCTV headquarters nearly complete is bewildering its great to know that we are witnessing the future go beijing!

Those pictures from Beijingupdates.com must be psed for sure. In two weeks, I didn't see the sky blue like that. grey, grey...

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/6783/46371439351b4bddbc4bzl7.jpg

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/6277/2378317633fb0584220abes4.jpg

http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/8058/21527850894d917dc28douf0.jpg

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/2417/24388684927c1c49eb4abvl0.jpg

Those pictures from Beijingupdates.com must be psed for sure. In two weeks, I didn't see the sky blue like that. grey, grey...

I assume they only take pictures on clear days. There are many more great Beijing pictures, I'll post them later (hard work...:nuts:)

beijing skyline

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/2493/2008715127392826608692lr7.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

Beijing Olympic park, the city is all ready for the game :)

http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/7749/07150119044a0id2.jpg

^^Wow, I never know the park is this big!

(beijingupdates.com)

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200871222432226731.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200871222453687333.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200871222482421462.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/2008712236574526.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087122392076289.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200871223133174775.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087122344734799.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000773.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000785.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000788.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000789.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000795.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000852.jpg

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc257/velon_2007/P1000814.jpg

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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/2008713173676219.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087121765558689.jpg

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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087121736148212.jpg

Subway
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087121745522480.jpg

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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087121752916879.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087121737553755.jpg

:)
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200871217425576373.jpg

7.15
http://i355.photobucket.com/albums/r454/velon_2008/P1000876.jpg

7.19 CBD
http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/080719_2/32.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/cobble/080719_2/1.jpg

7.19 Jianguomen
http://i355.photobucket.com/albums/r454/velon_2008/P1000762.jpg

http://i355.photobucket.com/albums/r454/velon_2008/P1000768A.jpg

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http://i355.photobucket.com/albums/r454/velon_2008/P1000728.jpg

http://i355.photobucket.com/albums/r454/velon_2008/P1000867A.jpg

7.20 Sanlitun & CBD
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/20087202114722393.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200872021225717328.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200872021225680405.jpg

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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/200872021442316662.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-7/2008720028650399.jpg



(beijingupdates.com)

顶顶顶顶顶顶顶顶顶

Beijing definitely TRANSFORMED!

Xidan Cultural Square in Beijing

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/23/xin_16207052321032503058959.jpg
People walk past the Xidan Pailou, a decorated archway, at the new Xidan Cultural Square in Beijing, capital of China, July 23, 2008. The reconstructed Xidan Cultural Square was opened to the public on Wednesday. More than 4,000 square meters of underground commecial area, the central stage and waterscape have been added to it. The Xidan Pailou, a decorated archway, was restored after disappearance of 85 years

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/23/xin_16207052321035621825960.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/23/xin_16207052321037181308561.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/23/xin_16207052321038591492362.jpg

^^
http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/8213/20087232173254192ep3.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/5129/beijing1zj5.jpg

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/8004/beijing3iu2.jpg

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/646/beijing2sn3.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

Tide of "modernization" on the ebb in old Beijing

2008-07-24

The map of Beijing on Zhang Wei's wall is turning black, as though being eaten away by a tumor.

The 31-year-old has used the map to track the destruction of the Chinese capitals ancient hutongs (lanes) and siheyuan (traditional courtyard houses), marking the site of each demolition with a black pen.

The tumor metaphor fits in with his view of Beijing as a living entity in its own right.

"The hutongs are the blood vessels while siheyuan are the cells of Beijing," says the slightly built Zhang who walks around his home, the base for the conservation website oldbeijing.org, in traditional black slippers, now usually favored only by the elderly.

Zhang founded the website eight years ago after watching his childhood home in a hutong named East Banbi Street being reduced to rubble and dust under the bulldozers.

He managed to rescue a piece of a delicately carved wooden window frame. "It had not changed a lot in the last 120 years," says Zhang.

He treasures the frame piece in his new apartment, where he operates the website dedicated to preserving images and memories of hutong life.

The non-profit project has become a virtual old Beijing for more than 16,000 registered users, with a file of more than 1 million photos and 45 million words.

"Beijing is changing too fast," says Zhang, who photographs the disappearing hutong with his team of dedicated amateur conservationists every weekend.

Too often they just find ruins, he says.

Much of the wood and brick old city has fallen victim to a relentless drive for modernization that has been realized in a series of steel and glass image-boosting buildings and a network wide highways and avenues.

The destruction began in the 1950s after architect Liang Sicheng (1901-1972) failed to persuade Chinese leaders to build the new downtown Beijing outside the old city. Since then, many old walls have received the white painted "To be demolished" character, and disappeared days after.

Standing at the end of East Rongxian Hutong, the shining egg-shaped National Centre for the Performing Arts looks like an alien spaceship.

It joins other modern or post-modern buildings, such as the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center), the Bird's Nest (the National Stadium) and the China Central Television (CCTV) Tower, in a list of new landmarks.

All of these buildings have been opened in the last two years, except for the CCTV Tower, which is still under construction.

But thanks to the efforts of Zhang and like-minded campaigners, the city is beginning to realize the value of its architectural heritage -- and looking to strike a balance between preservation and modernization.

It consulted a think tank comprising more than a dozen experts on architectural history and town planning, including Luo Zhewen, 84, a student of Liang Sicheng.

In 2000, the municipal government announced its most ambitious plan to date to preserve the old city, promising 330 million yuan (US$48 million) over the next three years to repair and preserve old buildings.

It ordered the preservation of dozens of parts of downtown Beijing, taking 37 percent of the ancient city area. In 2002, this was revised to 42 percent.

Cao Yuejin, who sits on the city planning committee, says, "Beijing needs to be modernized, and also traditional. The city needs to be balanced, and this guides the government's efforts."

However, the modernizers argue, "traditional" should not mean communal toilets and water facilities for hutong residents.

The deprivations of hutong life are well-documented. Writer Liu Xinwu famously detailed the discomforts of freezing winters in a siheyuan, and the inconvenience of traipsing through all weathers to go to the toilet.

The conservationists should understand that many hutong dwellers wanted the better living conditions that modern apartments offered, Liu wrote.

"Beijing used to be protected in an inappropriate way," says Cao. "We are aiming to create a comfortable living environment."

Instead tearing down whole hutongs, the government made plans to rebuild dangerous siheyuan, defining the property rights, and opening the hutongs to commercial uses such as shops, hotels and bars.

"There will be no more large scale demolitions, even outside the protection areas," says Cao. "The culture of hutongs will be protected in accordance with the living patterns of the residents."

Under the pressure of a population swelling with the tide of rural migrants, the authorities have drawn up plans to extend the urban area. Three "new cities" will be built in the northeast Shunyi District, the eastern Tongzhou District and the southern Yizhuang District.

"Beijing needs space to develop under the increasing pressure. The rapid speed of development is forcing the city to change," says Cao.

The new spirit of conservation has prominent supporters among the very people who stand to gain most from modernization -- the architects.

One of the architects changing Beijing, Australian John Bilmon, who designed the Water Cube, is blunt: "I feel sad to see the destruction of the hutongs."

Bilmon says he has tried to adopt elements of Chinese culture in the Water Cube

"The Water Cube represents water while the Bird's Nest with its red lights stands for fire, which are the two elements of traditional Chinese geomancy, Fengshui," he says.

The Cube also symbolizes the earth and the Nest the sky according to the ancient Chinese concept of universe in which the earth is square-shaped and the sky is round.

Bilmon was delighted when the site of the Water Cube was moved 100 meters in order to preserve an ancient temple dating from the Ming Dynasty.

"I'm glad to see Beijingers have realized the need to protect their history," he says.

"I love cycling through the old hutongs. I enjoy the sunshine and tranquility in the narrow lanes away from the noisy outside world.

"I see two Beijings here. One is the fast-developing modern Beijing, and the other is the quiet traditional Beijing," adds Bilmon.

Many of the "Olympic homestay" households designated as accommodation for foreigners showcase the modernization of the ancient hutong homes.

"My home is centuries old, but it has clean toilets, computers, televisions and a refrigerator," says Wang Zhixi, owner of an Olympic homestay. Her siheyuan in Dajinsi Hutong near the Shichahai lake area is handy to one of Beijing's burgeoning new bar and nightlife districts.

Wang and her husband, who both claim descent from Qing Dynasty nobility, have decorated their home with traditional Chinese paintings.

"We can both enjoy the birds' singing in the old yard just as Beijingers used to do and enjoy the convenience of modern life," Wang says.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080724/0013729e42ea09f26a5807.jpg

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http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080724/0013729e42ea09f26a590b.jpg

Beijing is fascinating! I love it!

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0360DF10.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0360E099.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/035CE1FD.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0362D0EE.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0362D0EF.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0362D0F1.002C

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/2526/aaaxp7.jpg

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/8449/610xeeqi0.jpg

http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/613/610xcccj5.jpg

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03692E04.002C

Traditional Beijing delicacies in Wangfujing snack street

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_352070530153454618211.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_3720705301534078108772.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_3820705301534093102113.jpg
Two foreigners enjoy shish kebab in a snack street of Beijing, capital of China. In the past, the popular Beijing snacks used to be hawked at temple fairs or roadside bazaars.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_382070530153445310384.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_382070530153487545165.jpg
Wearing traditional Chinese costume, the owner of a traditional Beijing snack bar solicits customers with his delicacies baodu, quick-boiled tripe in Wangfujing snack street in Beijing, capital of China, July 26, 2008. In the past, the popular Beijing snacks used to be hawked at temple fairs or roadside bazaars.(Xinhua/Du Huaju)

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_3920705301534218258716.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_392070530153454638277.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-07/30/xinsrc_392070530153487568578.jpg

some great photography and PS work by toomanytribbles, flickr.com

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2513087950_4de60f351f_b.jpg

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http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3139/2674012407_9d15815fc1_b.jpg
(Thanks cobble, beijingupdates.com)

love this Olympic park panorama photo (wang3769, sina.com)
http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/2593/b8a117042b35749f9c140fdbr2.jpg

Beijing must be the most exciting place to be right now. I wish I could be there. OH GOD! please let me win the damn lottery! ...please

http://img375.imageshack.us/img375/7548/oobg4.jpg

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/5928/oooya3.jpg

New landmark of Gui street

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-08/01/xin_24208050115076872498527.jpg
Workers unhook a round-mouthed food vessel with four loop handles in ancient China, that is set here as a new landmark of Gui street, the famous food and beverage street, near Dongzhimen overpass in Beijing, capital of China, on July 31, 2008

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-08/01/xin_24208050115078432861828.jpg

Dusk and night skylines under west mountain ...

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/036C2FC9.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/036C308D.002C

Like the CBD pana by laogao, ebijingupdates.com
http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/5913/200883153228285224d9793hs4.jpg

cool pano

The National Grand Theatre Nightcape ...

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/036D51F1.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/036D528C.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/036D5396.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/036D5EDD.002C

Aerial photos of Beijing Olympic venues

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/olympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080804/0013729e4abe0a00b64810.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/olympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080804/0013729e4abe0a00b64912.jpg

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http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/olympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080804/0013729e45180a00bf151f.jpg

:eek2: :eek2: :eek2:

Dont have words

:eek: :eek: :eek:

A.M.A.Z.I.N.G

:omg: Beijing looks completely transformed these days, its just fantastic. :shocked::drool::eek2:

WAUUU ESTA CIUDAD ESTA IMPRESIONANTE ! ESPERO CONOCERLA PRONTO

2008 Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony (aerial photos)

http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/4926/4is3mja009t00074mn7.jpg

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http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/6460/4is3mlsc09t00074pm0.jpg
(sina.com)

The opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games staged here on Friday night has caught nearly 4 billion people's eyes worldwide.
A dream-come-true resonance that longed for a hundred years and prepared for 84 months is giving millions of reasons to Chinese to have a sleepless night.
Chinese President Hu Jintao declared open the 29th summer Olympic Games of Beijing in the National Stadium in north Beijing on Friday night.
Thundering cheers rocked the full-packed stadium, while splendid fireworks lit up the city skyline.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-08/08/xinsrc_23208050900531561090035.jpg

http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/5608/oly7pv6.jpg

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http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/7843/oly4te3.jpg

Hats off China!

Awesome job to say the very least!

:master:

4 billion watched the ceremony.

^^ Thank you :)

I wish India the best of luck with the Commonwealth Games.

The opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympic Games staged here on Friday night has caught nearly 40 billion people's eyes worldwide.
A dream-come-true resonance that longed for a hundred years and prepared for 84 months is giving millions of reasons to Chinese to have a sleepless night.
Chinese President Hu Jintao declared open the 29th summer Olympic Games of Beijing in the National Stadium in north Beijing on Friday night.
Thundering cheers rocked the full-packed stadium, while splendid fireworks lit up the city skyline.

just watched Beijing Olympic Opening Ceremony......it was AMAZING :)

Anyway 40 billion people's eyes??? Currently the world (Earth alone) has about 6.6 billion people......where do they get these extra pairs of eyes :lol: perhaps the extraterrestrials was watching as well :nuts:

just watched Beijing Olympic Opening Ceremony......it was AMAZING :)

Anyway 40 billion people's eyes??? Currently the world (Earth alone) has about 6.6 billion people......where do they get these extra pairs of eyes :lol: perhaps the extraterrestrials was watching as well :nuts:

lol lol lol

Thanks for spotting the mistake. They meant 4 billions :)

amazing ceremony and that is the American Billion or 100 million to us

Damn! I missed it because I was at work... everything I saw was just amazing... good job!

^^ Thank you :)

I wish India the best of luck with the Commonwealth Games.

You are welcome. Hope we do put up a good show in 2010. Thanks.

:cheers:

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/olympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080809/0013729c03370a0756890a.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/olympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080809/0013729c03370a07568e0b.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/olympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080809/0013729c03370a0756ad0d.JPG

Vayaa...impactante ciudad, me llama la atención el enorme despliegue de arquitectura de edificios en altura y las utilizadas en espacios deportivos, con las obras tradicionales de la cultura china....como alguien dijo por ahi es una ciudad transformers....me ha dejado sin palabras.


Saludos

very cool. i like it very much but check out my litle town:
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=614103
i think is beautiful

^^ Your little town is Beijing ?

very cool. i like it very much but check out my litle town:
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=614103
i think is beautiful

ur little town so ok!! Welcome to Beijing... :)

A cidade ficou com uma atquitetura única.

好。 I苍白请求您某事，有没有邻里在北京？ 如果如此多么好是公共交通外部市区范围？

抱歉，我的中国人不是好那。

this page is all about Beijing 2008 olympics :)

transformer in Beijing :)

beijingupdates.com

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-8/20088160152485516.jpg


http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-8/2008816016338812.jpg


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bird best panorama, from cmoonflyer

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Beijing's service sector goes for the gold

2008-08-20


If the Olympics are a time for medals, many people earned theirs before the Games began.

These Olympians are the service providers, especially the entrepreneurs, who have changed Beijing from a city where consumers often had only one option into a city of virtually endless choices. And they have done this in less than 30 years.

For foreigners, Beijing in the 1970s was a hardship post. Here was the capital city of a nation of more than 1 billion people with one restaurant serving Peking duck, one department store for foreigners, and at most three hotels for international tourists.

This summer, Beijing welcomes an estimated 450,000 overseas tourists, including 40,000 athletes, coaches, officials, and journalists. They are expected to spend some $4.5 billion.

They find a city transformed. Beijing today offers not only superb facilities but also excellent service for visitors, whether they seek dining, shopping, or accommodations.

Dining

Once a culinary wasteland, Beijing today offers visitors a selection of restaurants, large and small, to meet every taste.

Beijing's best-known delicacy is roast duck, sometimes called Peking Duck. The place to get it used to be Quanjude, a State-owned restaurant chain. But thanks to competition, diners in search of duck can now choose from a string of new establishments, including Dadong, Liqun, Duck King, and Jiuhuashan.

Dadong takes its name from Dong Zhenxiang, a former Quanjude chef who opened his own roast duck restaurant in the 1990s. Diners enjoy its artistic decor and the distinctive pancakes in which the slices of duck are wrapped.

Dadong has exquisite service and is relatively expensive, making it a good choice for business entertaining, according to connoisseurs.

Quanjude itself has improved greatly in preparation for the Olympic Games, according to the company. However, more and more foreigners are seeking out Liqun, a small roast duck restaurant in a hutong (lane) about 30 minutes walk from the southeast corner of Tian'anmen Square.

The name of the restaurant means "benefiting the public", but is also the given name of the owner, Zhang Liqun. The restaurant has been written up by the travel guide Lonely Planet, but its prices are still reasonable - the standard Peking duck dinner (duck, pancakes, scallions, and duck soup) costs an average of 60 yuan per person, compared with between 100 and 130 yuan per person at Dadong or nearly 150 yuan at Quanjude, according to the popular dining restaurant website, http://Beijing.fantong.com.

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To reach Liqun, you walk into a broken-down alley, turn right, pass a public toilet, turn left under a string of red lanterns, and walk straight until you see a sign, a duck in black ink painted by Zhang himself.

The restaurant itself is ancient, small, and rather cramped. The ducks are roasted over fires using fragrant apple wood within view of the diners, usually more foreign than local.

Business is so good that Zhang suggests guests book in advance; otherwise, they may face a wait of 30-60 minutes during busy periods.

"President Bush was supposed to visit my restaurant when he was in Beijing the year before last," said Zhang. "We had everything prepared. But unfortunately his limousine was too big to fit down the narrow hutong, and they decided it was too risky for him to walk."

On another occasion, former vice-president Al Gore made it to the restaurant unscathed, Zhang said.

"I know what they (foreigners) like and what they need. Serving them has become a pleasure to me," he added.

If a hutong experience is not your thing, the most reliable alternative is the roast duck at Made in China, a modern restaurant within the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Like any other metropolis, Beijing has attracted people from all over the world and has developed restaurants to match. The breadth and depth of the selection would be amazing to a veteran of the early 1980s, when foreigners dined at the Beijing Hotel and a few other formal dining rooms.

In addition to restaurants, there are now entire districts devoted to bars, cafes, and tea houses. Sanlitun, near the foreign embassies, and Houhai (Rear Lake), along both sides of the serpentine lake north of the Forbidden City, are the best known.

However, the local Chinese often opt for more mundane streets, such as Dongzhimennei Street. Best known as Guijie, it offers some 200 eateries with various styles of foods from across the country.

Shopping

For foreigners, shopping in Beijing has also entered the 21st century with a vengeance.

Guan Tong, 46, a former assistant at the Beijing Friendship Store, recalls that in the old days, it was an honor to work at the only store in Beijing that was authorized by the government to receive foreign guests.

"We had to pass an English examination and an interview. The training included international etiquette and knowledge of traditional Chinese goods, such as silk, jade, pearl, as well as the 'four Chinese treasures' - brushes, ink sticks, paper and ink stones," she said.

The Friendship Store was only allowed to receive foreign exchange certificates (FECs), a currency used by foreigners before 1994, she added.

Guan could never have imagined the range of shops and other commercial facilities available in Beijing today.

From boutique department stores (such as the World Trade Centre, The Place, and Shin Kong Place) to giant shopping malls like the Golden Resources Shopping Mall to hubs of individual shops (such as the Xiushui Silk Market and the Hongqiao Pearl Market), the range of domestic and imported goods available to both foreigners and local consumers is simply staggering.

Dongsi Street, a 15-minute drive from Tian'anmen Square, is regarded by locals as Beijing's Shibuya (the fashion district in Tokyo). Here there are boutiques operated by young trend-setters, as well as established shops with staffs of experienced tailors.

Feng Yanyang has run a jeans store called "Cool Jeans" on Dongsi for almost 10 years. In addition to jeans - both brand name and locally made - her shop sells second-hand luxury brands, which are popular with foreign visitors.

"Years ago, we'd get a few foreigners, usually students. But now, a lot of overseas travelers come here in search of our creative goods," said Feng, wearing a tank top and Diesel baggy jeans with a pair of FitFlops.

Next door is a tattoo studio run by a 25-year-old artist from Hong Kong. "He's doing very well. His customers, including foreigners, have increased noticeably since 2006, when the shop opened," said Feng.

Another favorite of foreigners is Maliandao Tea City in the southern part of the city. Maliandao is a hub of thousands of tea merchants from every corner of China and the world. In addition to small shops, it includes a kind of tea museum, displaying more than 30 types of tea, as well as tea sets and other paraphenalia.

"Here you can find all types of Chinese tea, from Puer to green tea, from black to jasmine tea, even flower and herb teas preferred by young ladies," said Fujian native Fan Li.

Buying tea and bargaining with the shopkeepers is an art enjoyed by many connoisseurs, both foreign and domestic, according to Fan.

Fan's shop allows customers to sample tea for free, and some shop assistants can assist them in simple English. "We are still learning, and sometimes learn from our foreign customers, who stay in Beijing and can speak

Accommodations

Both luxury hotels and budget accommodations are flourishing in Beijing. In addition, homestay offers another option for foreign visitors eager to experience "real life" in the city.

According to the Beijing Tourism Bureau, Beijing boasts 46 five-star hotels, with 22,300 rooms and 33,000 beds, and 116 four-star hotels, with 34,500 rooms and 57,500 beds.

Also, some 200 moderate or budget hotels are available to visitors, compared to almost none four years ago.

In addition, 598 households have been selected for "homestay" accommodations during the Olympics, offering 726 rooms with 1,000 beds. Many of these showcase renovated homes in the Beijing's ancient hutong.

"My home is centuries old, but it has clean toilets, computers, televisions and a refrigerator," says Wang Zhixi, owner of an Olympic homestay. Her siheyuan (courtyard home) in Dajinsi Hutong near the Shichahai lake area is handy to one of Beijing's burgeoning new bar and nightlife districts.

Wang and her husband, who both claim descent from Qing Dynasty nobility, have decorated their home with traditional Chinese paintings. They are currently entertaining a German couple, who rent a room for 500 yuan per night.

Yuan Xiaoqing's sprawling nine-bedroom home overlooking the Fragrant Hills is a far cry from the average Beijing flat. Yuan's home features a spacious rooftop garden with rose bushes, grape vines, fruit trees, and a willow.

Yuan and her family have been offering homestays to overseas guests for three years and have received visitors from Europe, Canada and the United States, most of them high school or college students. Recently the family applied to become part of the Olympic homestay program, but organizers said the house was too far from the downtown area.

Many commercial operators in Beijing offer to match travelers with households willing to rent them a room. Jacob Cooke, manager of Beijing Homestay Agency, has directed many guests to Yuan's home and said the agency has a database of 30 to 40 families willing to provide homestay services.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2008-08/20/content_6953563_3.htm

wow~~~these pictures are so huge and breathtaking that my aged computer's striking now...

But for me, it's good to discover such a gorgeous Beijing in the night which I haven't noticed during the daytime...

Thank you so much for you brilliant post!

Night view of CCTV Transmission Tower

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^^ wow beautiful lights

Amazing pictures i love beijing. Can i ask anyone who can/has or knows where i can get some pictures of Beijings inner suburbs and suburbs, the apartments etc.. as i am making a chinese city in sim city and i would like it to look very realistic

Thankyou 感谢

The imagery on Google Maps has been updated to show the Beach Volleyball ground. And could there be anymore projects on this park? I know a mall has been built in the area.

Clean-air measures to remain after Games

2008-08-24


Some temporary measures brought in to tackle pollution in Beijing during the Olympic Games are set to become permanent, in a bid to address continuing environmental challenges, despite the recent improvement in air quality, an official said Saturday.

The removal and treatment of heavy-polluting vehicles will be accelerated and plans to reduce construction site dust will be stepped up, Du Shaozhong, deputy director of the Beijing environmental protection bureau, told a news conference.

The city will also require heavily-polluting companies to address their pollution problems as a prerequisite to resuming operations after the Games, he said.

"If they can't resolve the pollution problems, they must stop or limit their production," he said.

But Wang Li, deputy director of the city's traffic administrative bureau, told the conference that as of yet there are no plans to continue with the odd-even license plate restriction once the Olympics has finished, despite its success in cutting pollution and calls for the continuation of the measure.

"The rule is closely related to everyone's daily life. We want to hear more public opinion on the whether, or how, to keep the rule," she said.

Bureau figures released Saturday showed that since the opening of the Games on Aug 8, the city's air quality has ranged from between excellent and fairly good on the pollution index, the cleanest for any summer period in the past 10 years.

The average daily air pollution index (API) so far this month was 56, far below 81 reported last year. Major air pollutants on average dropped 40 percent over the same period last year, with nitrogen oxide emissions directly related to vehicles down by 61 percent, according to the bureau.

Foreign experts have also spoken highly of Beijing's improvement in air quality, such as Ivo Allegrini, head of the air pollution department at the Italian National Research Center, and a member of the Beijing environment protection bureau's 12-member expert panel on air quality assessment during the Games.

"The city's air quality was highly satisfactory during the Games in the past two weeks. Pollutant data were no higher than that in most developed Western urban cites," Allegrini said in an interview Saturday.

Beijing's efforts to tackle air pollution is one of the best examples of how to reduce pollution in a city for important events such as an Olympics, he said.

Another expert, Andreas Wahner, director of the Institutes for Chemistry of Germany, said: "Beijing's air quality control measures have received a remarkable improvement as major pollutant concentration has declined to reach WHO guidance."

However, Du was also realistic about the challenges in the future.

"Although the Olympic Games will end soon, the environmental challenges we face are by no means over."

He has also called for public involvement in pollution control. He said the city would draw experience from the Olympics to organize volunteers to get involved in the daily environment protection administration, and continue to reward those who report illegal pollution activities.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2008-08/24/content_6965609.htm

8.23 Shuangjing - tonghui River - CBD
(cobble, beijingupdates.com)

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Capital, the real winner of the Games

2008-08-25

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Forget the medal tally. The real winner of this year's Games is Beijing.

Not only has Olympics given the capital a mega facelift that must be the envy of cities the world over, the huge infrastructural boost it has got provides other Chinese cities a perfect model to emulate.

The 3.2 billion yuan Bird's Nest is only the most visible face of the changes Beijing has undergone in the past years. Many of the other projects are no less stunning. These include the 6.2 billion yuan express rail linking downtown Beijing and the Capital International Airport; the 27 billion yuan new airport terminal (T3); the 67.7 billion yuan relocation program for steelmaker Shougang Group; the 11.99 billion yuan No 5 subway line and the 15.99 billion yuan No 10 subway line; and the 14.3 billion yuan Beijing-Tianjin express rail.

Some critics say the Beijing Games may have been way too extravagant, compared with Athens' $15 billion infrastructure program in 2004 and Sydney's $5 billion in 2000. But what is overlooked in such criticism is that most of the money went into infrastructure rather than venues per se, ensuring more long-term bang for the billions spent.

Statistics from Beijing Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games (BOCOG) show only 13 billion yuan was spent on venues - 31 for contests and 45 for training. On the other hand, over 180 billion yuan was injected into infrastructure. So far, eight new railway lines, covering 200 km with a daily capacity of around 4 million people, are under operation alongside 60 km of a rapid bus transport system. These combined with new terminal, upgraded expressways and public transportation system, have changed the face of Beijing forever.

As a result of a 15 billion yuan investment, over 90 percent of the city's wastewater is now treated; over 50 per cent of the city is forested; and natural gas accounts for more than 60 per cent of energy generation - up from 45 per cent in 2000.

Some 50,000 old taxis and 10,000 buses have been replaced with new ones, and 4,000 of the buses are powered by natural gas - now the largest fleet of its kind in the world. Some 200 polluting units have been closed, moved or have switched to cleaner modes of production over the past seven years. All these cost about 45 billion yuan.

Informatization upgrading, involving fixed and wireless communications, broadband, long-distance communications, e-government and e-commerce systems cost another 30 billion yuan.

"Beijing Olympics has tremendously improved the city's infrastructure, increasing the capital city's 'value'," says Liu Jinhe, senior researcher of Samsung Economy Research Institute.

Andreas Flaig, managing director of property management and consultancy Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels China, has been in Beijing for three years now. "I am very happy with the way the city has changed. I think it's phenomenal and extraordinary for the government to have invested so much in reshaping the city," he says.

Model for change

Beijing's radical makeover has come as a great example for other Chinese cities trying to redefine themselves to increase the general standard of living, attract investors and set themselves apart. Chongqing is to pool 3.7 billion yuan to set up a railway station equivalent to the Southern Beijing Railway Station, the largest one in Asia. Some 15 cities, including Shanghai, Guangzhou, Nanjing and Wuhan, are busy building or expanding their metro and light track systems. According to the Ministry of Construction, urban rail reached 602 km on the Chinese mainland by the end of last year, while a number of projects running up to 2015 will add another 1,453 km.

Brian Dennehy, partner of Dennehy Weller & Co, a UK-based independent financial adviser, says China's huge population and area means there is more scope for improvement of infrastructure and new industries. "With millions expected to move from rural to urban areas, the Chinese will need to build the equivalent of two New Yorks every year for the next 15 years," he says.

A city's renovation and cleanup are a lengthy process, but events such as the Olympics inject such endeavors with a new vigor. Beijing has used the opportunity afforded by the Games to speed up its metro and light track construction. While the 200 km urban rail system was finished by July, the city's original plan in the late 1990s was to complete 150 km by 2010.

"That's one of the reasons why cities compete to host international events. They can act as an engine for rapid improvement," says Flaig.

Shougang's relocation demonstrates how urban green projects can impact other areas. The 67.7 billion yuan project removed the old facilities, paid for employee relocation as well as environmentally friendly facilities in Caofeidian, an islet which has been turned into a booming economic development zone.

Numerous such projects are afoot in China as the central government has issued related policies on relocation of heavily polluting enterprises, opening up numerous opportunities for investors from home and abroad.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2008-08/25/content_6968240.htm

Up to speed

2008-08-25

From dressing its taxi drivers in uniform yellow shirts and striped ties and coaching them in basic English, from standardizing menu translations, rating restaurants according to hygiene standards to building new public "super toilets", Beijing tried to present its best possible face during the Olympic Games.

The two-week sports gala undoubtedly served as a catalyst for the city to improve its service industry.

"Because of the Olympic Games, Beijing has been pushed to speed up its development that usually would have taken at least 10 years," says Michael Pielenz, CEO of International Public Relations Academy and Consultancy, a PR training and consultancy in Beijing.

"The Olympic Games are a great blessing for Beijingers. People can really feel what it is like to live in a city that offers good surroundings. This should not be just designed for the foreign guests who are gone when the Games are over. It should be for you and me who are living here," says Pielenz, who comes from Germany and has lived in Beijing for five years.

His views are echoed by Russell Leu, chief representative and attorney at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP's Beijing representative office.

"You can easily see the physical improvement in the appearance of the city, such as better subway platforms and cleaner cabs. Everybody is making a big effort. The Olympics definitely contributed a lot to that. But the important thing is to keep that because this is our place and our city." says Leu, an American who has been living in Beijing since 2004.

"Foreigners could also use the Olympics as a gauge. It would be a pity when they come back to Beijing a year later and find the city is a lot different from what it was during the Olympics," Leu adds.

Cabs are often the first window for foreign visitors to view Beijing when they leave airport. So the government made great efforts to improve the service of the city's over 60,000 cabs since last year.

The city's municipal transport management bureau last year issued a 12-point code of conduct for taxi drivers. For example, they are not allowed to eat, sleep or smoke in the cars. If their cabs are considered to smell too much, their service will be suspended for two days.

Female drivers must not wear big, chunky earrings or dye their hair odd colors like bright red or yellow. Drivers who refuse passengers, take indirect routes to run up the meters, or refuse to use the meters will be fined. The drivers were also asked to take English training classes.

"I never expect the cab drivers to speak English. But looking decent, by driving clean cars and wearing clean shirts, is something you owe to your customers," Pielenz says.

The catering industry is another major area the government is determined to improve.

As part of the city's campaign to tackle potential food safety problems, the Beijing Health Bureau has developed an online database so that diners can check the hygiene standards of Beijing restaurants that are graded from A (excellent) to D (not qualified).

The Ministry of Health started the rating system nationwide as early as 2004 by drawing on the experiences of Japan and Singapore. Thanks to the Olympic Games, Beijing has done the most thorough ratings in the country.

The restaurants are rated according to 67 specific criteria, including the health conditions of waiters and cooks, the kitchen facilities and the qualifications of the food suppliers.

The city government's foreign affairs office and the Beijing tourism bureau early this year jointly published a book, Chinese Menu in English Version, to standardize menu translation. It recommended new English translations for more than 2,000 traditional Chinese dishes to avoid funny translations such as "chicken without a sexual life" and "bean curd made by a pockmarked woman."


"These regulations and measures were introduced because of the Olympics. But the significance goes beyond the 17-day sports event and will be conducive to sustainable and healthy development of the catering industry in the post-Olympic period," says Yang Liu, managing vice-president of the China Cuisine Association.


"The Olympics also pushed many Chinese restaurants to improve their management levels as they try to meet the high standards of catering services for the Games," Yang says.


Noble Club, a high-end restaurant located right next to the north gate of Ditan Park, has offered English-language training courses to its over 100 waiters and waitresses since the end of May. The employees had to take English tests every month and the best were awarded with cash bonuses. Finally about 30 of them wore badges saying "English service" while greeting guests during the Games. They also had to be trained in western table etiquette and religious taboos on eating and drinking.


South Beauty, an upscale catering chain based in Beijing, hired about 300 fresh college graduates before the Games and they were dispatched to 20-odd South Beauty restaurants around the city. The reason? They speak better English.


"These young people, in their early 20s, are now full-time employees at South Beauty. We hope they can stay with us for four to five years and become fresh blood in the management team of South Beauty," says Du Wei, corporate communication director of the catering chain.


"Building a talent pool is strategic to the long-term development of South Beauty. In some way, the Olympics has pushed us to put this high on our agenda even earlier," Du says.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2008-08/25/content_6969220_2.htm

“most of the money went into infrastructure rather than venues per se, ensuring more long-term bang for the billions spent.”

That is the key - the money was very well spent.

8.24 Olympic gams closing ceremony

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The blue sky of Beijing is as blue as the others... These were shot in Aug. 16, 2008.

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“most of the money went into infrastructure rather than venues per se, ensuring more long-term bang for the billions spent.”

That is the key - the money was very well spent.

Games 'well worth the money' - experts

2008-08-26


Beijing's huge investment in the Olympics will help cement its place as a world-class city and business center, and leave a legacy of improvements for its residents, pundits have said.

Unlike Athens and some other previous hosts, where the Games led to a mountain of debt and many of the venues now sit unused, Beijing and the Chinese government can comfortably afford the $40 billion bill, they said.

Denis Ma, associate director of research at the Beijing office of property consultants Jones Lang LaSalle, said the main thing was that less than a quarter of the total spend was on purpose-built venues such as the Bird's Nest stadium. The bulk was invested in infrastructure.

"Many of the changes were necessary for Beijing's continued development. The Olympics just served to accelerate their implementation," Ma said.

The extension of the subway network will not only help reduce vehicle emissions, but allow for the development of new residential hubs, he said.

Jing Ulrich, chairman of China equities at J P Morgan Securities, said the investment would have long-term benefits.

"With an improved transport system, financial services infrastructure, communications network and hospitality industry, post-Olympics Beijing will be better positioned to fulfill its potential as a world-class metropolis," he said in a report.

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The city is also confident of a bright future for its newly built stadiums.

The new operators of the Bird's Nest, a consortium led by state investment group CITIC, plan to sell naming rights and make it home to one of Beijing's professional soccer clubs, with a complex of hotels, restaurants and shops built around it.

AEG Worldwide, a US sports and entertainment management firm hoping to tap into a post-Olympics boom, has already teamed up with the National Basketball Association's NBA China to secure the rights to manage the Wukesong indoor stadium, which staged the basketball competition.

AEG is also looking at staging events at the Bird's Nest.

"We're interested in the Bird's Nest, and are confident we can fill it occasionally," Tim Leiweke, president and CEO of AEG said recently.

Zou Huan, a professor of urban planning at Beijing's Tsinghua University, said the way in which the Games sparked the development of new public spaces in the city was also significant.

Not only will the Olympic Green likely rival Tian'anmen Square as a prime destination for tourists, but the many new parks and green spaces will give ordinary Beijinger a break from their often cramped living conditions, he said.

"They resemble European city squares in the sense of how they give people a space outdoors to chat and meet. That's very useful, and it's changing city life," Zou said.

Ideally, officials would have had more time to carry out their plans, and paid more attention to detail, to avoid sacrificing some buildings of historical value, he said.

Thousands of people were also forced to move to make way for the venues, parks and light rail lines.

"But you have to look at the costs and benefits," Zou said.

"Overall, I think the gains for Beijing's urban landscape are more important."

Agencies

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2008-08/26/content_6969931.htm

Beijing's odd-even traffic restrictions to be lifted

August 26, 2008

The odd-even license plate rule brought in to keep cars off the streets of Beijing during the Olympics will be lifted in some areas from Thursday, the city's traffic management bureau said Monday.

The rule will no longer apply on roads outside the Fifth Ring, with the exceptions of the airport highway and certain sections of the Badaling and Beijing-Chengde expressways, it said.

The regulation was introduced on July 20 to ease congestion and reduce pollution during the Olympics and Paralympics, the bureau said, adding that it was always designed to have two phases.

The first phase, from July 20 until tomorrow, limited the city's 3.3 million private cars to alternate days on the road, according to whether they had even- or odd-numbered license plates.

The second phase, from Thursday until Sept 20, will retain the odd-and-even license plate rule on roads within the Fifth Ring, including the airport highway, the Badaling expressway from Shangqing Overpass to Xiguan Huandao and the Beijing-Chengde expressway, the bureau said.

Chen Daping, who lives in the Yizhuang area of Beijing, said: "It will be a pleasure to be able to go on family outings to the city suburbs regardless of my license plate number."

Also, as lifting the ban outside the Fifth Ring will heighten traffic pressure in downtown areas of the city, all Olympic lanes will reopen to traffic on Thursday, the bureau said.

However, Beijing residents are still encouraged to take public transportation to ease congestion, it said.

Twenty-four of the 34 Olympic bus routes closed on Sunday, Beijing Public Transport Holdings, Ltd, said.

Route 8, which runs from the Olympic bus depot to Wukesong Bridge, and route 20, from Shunyi Yancao Denggang to Shunyi Olympic Rowing-Canoeing Park, will close tomorrow, it said.

Eight Olympic bus routes will continue to operate until the end of the Paralympics.

From:China Daily

Games 'well worth the money' - experts

2008-08-26


Beijing's huge investment in the Olympics will help cement its place as a world-class city and business center, and leave a legacy of improvements for its residents, pundits have said.

Unlike Athens and some other previous hosts, where the Games led to a mountain of debt and many of the venues now sit unused, Beijing and the Chinese government can comfortably afford the $40 billion bill, they said.

Denis Ma, associate director of research at the Beijing office of property consultants Jones Lang LaSalle, said the main thing was that less than a quarter of the total spend was on purpose-built venues such as the Bird's Nest stadium. The bulk was invested in infrastructure.

"Many of the changes were necessary for Beijing's continued development. The Olympics just served to accelerate their implementation," Ma said.

The extension of the subway network will not only help reduce vehicle emissions, but allow for the development of new residential hubs, he said.

Jing Ulrich, chairman of China equities at J P Morgan Securities, said the investment would have long-term benefits.

"With an improved transport system, financial services infrastructure, communications network and hospitality industry, post-Olympics Beijing will be better positioned to fulfill its potential as a world-class metropolis," he said in a report.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080826/0013729e45180a1d87462f.jpg

The city is also confident of a bright future for its newly built stadiums.

The new operators of the Bird's Nest, a consortium led by state investment group CITIC, plan to sell naming rights and make it home to one of Beijing's professional soccer clubs, with a complex of hotels, restaurants and shops built around it.

AEG Worldwide, a US sports and entertainment management firm hoping to tap into a post-Olympics boom, has already teamed up with the National Basketball Association's NBA China to secure the rights to manage the Wukesong indoor stadium, which staged the basketball competition.

AEG is also looking at staging events at the Bird's Nest.

"We're interested in the Bird's Nest, and are confident we can fill it occasionally," Tim Leiweke, president and CEO of AEG said recently.

Zou Huan, a professor of urban planning at Beijing's Tsinghua University, said the way in which the Games sparked the development of new public spaces in the city was also significant.

Not only will the Olympic Green likely rival Tian'anmen Square as a prime destination for tourists, but the many new parks and green spaces will give ordinary Beijinger a break from their often cramped living conditions, he said.

"They resemble European city squares in the sense of how they give people a space outdoors to chat and meet. That's very useful, and it's changing city life," Zou said.

Ideally, officials would have had more time to carry out their plans, and paid more attention to detail, to avoid sacrificing some buildings of historical value, he said.

Thousands of people were also forced to move to make way for the venues, parks and light rail lines.

"But you have to look at the costs and benefits," Zou said.

"Overall, I think the gains for Beijing's urban landscape are more important."

Agencies

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2008-08/26/content_6969931.htm

LOL, who wants to go to the water slides at the Water Cube :lol:? Sounds like fun!

Where are pictures?

http://i340.photobucket.com/albums/o322/foglio23/4-10.jpg

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http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/9882/2008828231645703203075awq0.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-08/31/xin_39208053120471561754228.jpg

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ZHongguancun
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new Zhongguancun shopping center
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Haidian Middle Street
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Haidian Park
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Beijing rules out post-Games livability setback, despite challenges ahead

2008-09-01

As the Chinese capital hosts its second extravaganza, the Paralympics, less than a month after the Olympic Games, local authorities admit their promise of a "New Beijing, Great Olympics" is only half complete.

An implication of the slogan, barely noticed by the world since its proposal seven years ago, as deputy chief Tan Zhimin of the Beijing City Building Headquarter Office for 2008 revealed to Xinhua, was that the "Great Olympics" had been conceived as a way to lead to the "New Beijing."

"It is impossible and will not be allowed should the city go backward in livability because citizen expectations are already driven up by the Olympics and the demand for further social and economic development."
In 2005, Tan's office was entrusted by the Beijing Municipal government to orchestrate a city facelift. This involved coordinating more than 20 governmental departments in time for the sporting spectacular that was being hosted by the Chinese people for the first time.

Tan said the government would continue to explore and experience the inconveniences plaguing the public after the Olympics and work on the imperfections with circumspection.

Calling citizens "the source of city vitality," he said the goal of a more livable Beijing could not be realized without respecting the opinions of citizens.

From subsistence, entertainment, recreation to transport, a raft of issues needed to be tackled. These included air quality, transport, garbage and sewage disposal facilities, as well as green space and emergency shelters in case of severe natural disasters, he said.

Though detailed measures were yet to be released by the municipal government, Tan said the "New Beijing" theme would run through the tenure of the current government headed by mayor Guo Jinlong.

"We knew this is a long-term task. That's why we seek a permanent cure rather than symptomatic relief in preparations for the Olympics."

Less red tape

For deputy manager Lin Zhiwei of the environmental construction coordination department of the headquarter office, the charm of the Olympics is not in "its grandiosity" but "its parallel to force majeure."

As governments, both at the central and municipal levels, have summoned all resources available to honor the promise of a "Great Olympics," even grassroots governmental staffers were aware the Olympics-related work stood at the top of the daily agenda. "This has turned the Olympics into a giant impetus to end buck-passing culture and curb red-tape bureaucracy," Lin said.
On Yuegezhuang Bridge, across the Fourth Ring Road in western Beijing, the dangerous but frequent sight of hawkers moving between stopped automobiles to distribute advertising leaflets finally disappeared several months ahead of the Olympics.

Shadow boxing has long been played. The parapolice, responsible for illegal business on the streets, refused to handle it in the first place, arguing it happened on trunk roads where traffic police were posted.

Traffic police took over the enforcement only to bite their nails after failing to find any legal basis to penalize the hawkers. Recognizing some of these distributors of business cards, flyers, maps and driving accessories, among others, were minors, they kicked the ball to the civil service departments who acknowledged their duty to take care of those under-aged. But they also asserted their jurisdiction was confined only to relief stations.

The real reason behind the nonfeasance by the parapolice, Lin noted, was that enforcing laws on highways risked triggering car accidents, which might have injured or killed the hawkers and in turn, brought trouble to the law enforcers.

Following a field survey and mediation that took months, Lin and his team figured out a solution where police officers would remove the hawkers away from the traffic first. Parapolice would then step in to issue fines for adults or to escort minors to relief stations run by civil service agencies.

To cut red-tape bureaucracy, the headquarter office also drafted dozens of rules to tackle grey areas. These included highway leafleting and clarifying the duties of different departments in the city facelift, ranging from environmental protection, Hutong refurbishment, greening, street make-over to the setting of public facilities on sidewalks.

All approved by local legislatures, the rules have significantly slashed the administrative costs from "one case, one meeting," said Professor Wang Wei of the China National School of Administration. He foresaw a ripple effect from the Olympics on the country's governmental institution reform.

"After seven years of preparations, most governmental departments felt it a mission impossible to build the 'New Beijing' without support from other departments," Wang said. "They recognized the significance of cooperation and came to know the good of it."
Framed under the planned economy abandoned 30 years ago, the Chinese administrative managing system, though having undergone constant adjustment, was still being diagnosed as micro-managing the economy. There was low efficiency from overlapping responsibilities or power not being matched by responsibilities, and public services ridden by departmental interests.

Recognizing the headquarter office as a "test run" for the country's giant department organization reform at the local level, Professor Wang said if the Beijing Municipality had the guts to push forward the reform for a local government offering better and more efficient public services in seven to eight years, locals would reap a precious legacy from the Olympics.

More than face-concerned

For first-time visitors to Beijing, what undoubtedly caught their eye was the gorgeous Olympic venues, such as the Bird's Nest National Stadium and raft of new high-rises. For locals and others familiar with the city, however, more subtle changes came from renovated airports and railway stations, shopping districts, roads to the Olympic Village and venues and residential buildings facing the streets.

Fully aware these projects had been interpreted as "face-saving projects" by the public, planner Tan admitted the Chinese were indeed face-concerned. "When it comes to the Olympic preparations and the building of a 'New Beijing,' however, it's more than a matter of face-saving."

Tan said the municipality hoped to use the Olympic opportunity to benefit local residents. In total, residents in 171 "villages" within Beijing's Fourth Ring Road moved out of the seedy areas and got better accommodations. This involved more than 6.97 million square meters and cost the government 15.5 billion yuan (about US$2.27 billion).

"We don't want the public to sacrifice for the Olympics, it's never our intention," he said.

Before the removal, it was a common sight for families of three generations to live under one crowded roof, with no shower at home and the restroom several minutes' walk away. Now, at new residences away from their former home site, the elders can use their own toilets while kids can read in their own bedrooms.

There were other residents who didn't need to move. In 600 hutongs or alleys inside the Second Ring Road, all apartments have been refurbished, the walls and doors renovated in the style of early last century. Even roads were repaved.

Song Xiulan who had been living in the Shoushuihe hutong in Xicheng District for more than 40 years couldn't recognize her home. Pointing at her apartment equipped with new kitchenware and floor, she said it was the Olympics that brought her the "good fortune."
"Look at the glowing faces of Beijingers on the streets. The vigor comes from the bottom of their heart and their confidence of their life getting better," said academic Wang. He identified the rising awareness of the public in city building and environment as another precious legacy of the Games.

Soon after the closure of the Olympics, more than 400,000 Beijingers joined an online discussion about whether to keep a pre-Games car ban. Nearly half supported a permanent car restriction -- an alternating odd-even license plate system from July 20. Others, mostly car owners, understandably opposed.

Another random survey released by the headquarter office revealed 21 percent of the 6,009 polled households were still unsatisfied with the city's livability in the second quarter, the lowest response since the survey was launched a year earlier.

They expected the government to solve problems such as construction noise at night, unlicensed businesses, illegitimate construction, open-air barbecues and leafleting. Garbage collection, street cleaning and public restroom maintenance, however, were viewed as "improving a lot."

"Without the participation and understanding of the citizens, the New Beijing dream would be utopia," Tan said. "The municipality should seize on the legacies left by the Olympics on its management system and the public to march forward."

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2008-09/01/content_6987934.htm

Beijing air measures 'must stay'


Tuesday, 2 September 2008


Beijing residents are becoming increasingly vocal about their demands to keep emergency measures introduced for the Olympic Games.

These measures, which run until 20 September, include keeping drivers off the roads, closing polluting factories and shutting down rubbish dumps.

The result has been a less polluted city with blue skies and clearer roads.

More than 400,000 residents have joined online discussion groups to talk about retaining the measures, reports say.

Clearer roads

These temporary rules were only supposed to last until the end of the Paralympics, which begin on Saturday.

They were introduced to help China fulfil its commitment to provide the best possible environment for the Olympics and Paralympics.

But many residents like them, and some want them to continue.

A survey conducted by the Beijing News found that nearly 70% of respondents supported continuing the traffic restrictions.

These have kept up to half the city's vehicles off the roads, leaving the streets noticeably less congested.

Even drivers seem impressed with the restrictions - nearly half told the daily that they wanted the traffic rules made permanent.

The writer of a commentary piece in the Beijing News suggested lanes reserved for Olympic vehicles should be turned into bus lanes.

"This will make the public transport situation much better and lead to more people with cars joining the ranks of public transport users," the article said.

'Higher expectations'

It is not just the roads that have benefited from the temporary rules. The skies above Beijing have been unusually clear and blue.

Beijing Environmental Protection Bureau announced last month that it had fulfilled its Olympic pledges, but on Monday it gave more details.

It said air pollution during the Olympics was down by 50% - a 10-year record.

Not only do Beijing residents like their cleaner city, they also appear more willing to fight to keep it that way.

There are reports that Beijing residents protested outside a rubbish incineration plant on Saturday.

Residents, who claim the site gives off noxious fumes, staged their demonstration when the site opened again after being closed during the Olympics.

The authorities acknowledge that many Beijing residents will not be content if the city's improvements are not maintained.

"Citizens' expectations have already been driven up by the Olympics," Tan Zhimin, one city official, told China's state-run news agency Xinhua.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7593483.stm

北京的建筑不高但有气魄，非常喜欢BOX群，太漂亮:)

北京的建筑不高但有气魄，非常喜欢BOX群，太漂亮:)


我也决的


气魄

it has unique personality, just like its beijing locals proud/confident personality.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/07/xin_592090507195540613641.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/07/xin_5920905071955656323633.jpg

:eek2: This capital city tottaly rocks!! im more in love with China! after i saw this pictures.... i need to visit this palce as soon as i can! :lol:

WTCIII
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Zhong guancun
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CCTV
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Bird nest
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residential
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national library (opened in sep)
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Qianmen street
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Huamao
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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-9/200891519341745826.jpg

Temple of Heaven
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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-9/20089102151794528.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

TVCC looks more stunning than CCTV:tongue2:,CCTV is also great though.

Full moon shines over the Bird's Nest


http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/paralympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080914/001111a9f7bb0a371ff051.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/paralympics/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080914/000d60aa06df0a370e953b.jpg

^^ another one.
http://news.xinhuanet.com/photo/2008-09/15/xin_0320905150727531164511.jpg
Happy Mooncake festival!

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from cobble, beijingupdates.com

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A 9.9-meter-high traditional palace lantern ornament, the main part of the decorating parterre, is transported to the Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China, Sept. 19, 2008, to decorate the square as the National Day Holiday approaches.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/20/xin_21209052020462652886827.jpg

A journalist's diary


2008-09-12


Antonio Fernandez Arce, still vibrant at 77, evokes a Beijing that feels worlds apart from the city's present-day incarnation.

Seated in a quiet room in Beijing's Peruvian embassy, a place that Arce himself helped establish, the spick-and-span septuagenarian is impeccably dressed. He is accompanied by his Chinese wife, Hu Weiling, 48, and his Peru-born son Antonio Fernandez Hu, 19, who lives in Beijing and studies international relations at Peking University.

Antonio Fernandez Arce with his son Antonio Fernandez Hu and Chinese wife Hu Weiling at his Beijing home. Photos courtesy of Antonio Fernandez Arce

As Arce recounts, he first arrived in this city 48 years ago, a curious young journalist from Trujillo, Peru. That was the year 1960, when Mao Zedong was at the nation's helm, and before China even had a Peruvian embassy.

Arce began to work for the Peruvian embassy in China in 1971, and was a witness to the growing diplomatic relationship between the two countries.

Two years later, he quit to return to Peru to resume his journalistic career. But his association with China did not come to an end. Over the past few decades, he has traveled frequently between China and Peru - living mostly in China and working for various newspapers.

He worked as a copy editor for Xinhua News Agency from 1982 to 1995 and since 2003 has been a consultant for a Spanish-language channel of CCTV.

When he first arrived, "all foreign journalists in Beijing were on very close terms with high-ranking (Chinese Communist Party) officials," says Arce. Already a prominent journalist in South America at the age of 28, Arce was one of a small group of foreign reporters invited to China. He became directly involved in building China-Peru relations from scratch.

An exceptional friendship, with a distinctly unceremonious beginning, soon blossomed between him and Premier Zhou Enlai. They met during Arce's heady first trip into exclusive Zhongnanhai, where the top Party officials lived and worked.

When Arce heard the Chinese Premier was present, he asked if he could possibly meet him. A nearby translator exclaimed: "But you already have!" Puzzled, Arce denied this until the translator explained: "Remember the man who opened your car door for you when you got here? That was Premier Zhou." The surprised Arce immediately sought out Zhou, and the two struck up a friendship on the spot.

Another cherished memory of Zhou, from 1970, involves a much less light-hearted affair. Arce was busy translating highly classified documents and temporarily barred from any communication with the outside world. At this time, his 13-day-old daughter, Flor de Maria, became afflicted with leukemia.

When this piece of news made its way to Premier Zhou, he immediately ordered the best doctor in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to attend to Arce's baby daughter. He also asked some of the PLA's strongest men to donate blood, and Flor de Maria was cured after numerous blood transfusions. She is now 38 and works as a lawyer in Peru. "For her life, thanks must go to the Premier," reflects Arce.

These episodes, brought to life by Arce, depict a bygone diplomatic era: a period when relations between China and many countries were just being forged, often by a mere handful of people. A profound depth of feeling often lay behind diplomatic ties and Arce speaks fondly of his Chinese "good friends", such as one fellow who valiantly attempted to breed Peruvian lemons in Beijing (to little success).

Today Arce notes that much has changed. For example, the little stalls and eateries that once lined the streets of Beijing, where one could grab a bite of classic local fare the "old Beijing way", have almost all disappeared.

He also laments the now nonexistent roadside theaters, offering Peking opera and other types of traditional performances, which he once enjoyed frequenting. "You could always see everyday folk gathered around to watch," he recalls.

In the Beijing of the 1960s and 70s, Arce recollects that "by 6 or 7 o'clock at night, all the stores would be closed and very few people would be out and about". Beijing is now a bona fide metropolis-that-never-sleeps. There was also astonishingly little crime, to the point where "if someone found money in the street, they would go and hand it in to the police".

"China was like an example for the West," Arce recalls, mentioning the ambitious planned economy, and the simplicity and frugality of the Chinese lifestyle. Naturally, he says, much of that has changed, as is inevitable in the process of modernization.

Arce particularly admires one of Deng Xiaoping's metaphors for its succinct accuracy in describing China's paradox of progress: "When you open the door, you let in fresh air, but you also let in flies."

"Flies" and all, Beijing's infrastructure and quality of life have seen undeniable improvement. When he first arrived, Arce recalls, Beijing had yet to install a sewage system. "Back then only the Forbidden City had proper sewers," he smiles.

And now, whenever Arce passes by some of Beijing's most bustling areas, such as Xidan and Wangfujing, he cannot help but notice the many smiling faces, which is "part of the huge progress that has been made."

But what is it exactly that has drawn Arce to China for so long? "The sheer determination of the people here," he replies without hesitation.

Arce is also deeply interested in Chinese culture. He has long been enamored of China's history and literature, and he has written on subjects ranging from Genghis Khan to the classic novel, A Dream of the Red Mansions. Arce is currently working on two commissioned books about China.

China is where Arce met his wife, Hu Weiling. At that time, foreign journalists were housed in Beijing's Friendship Hotel, and Beijing born-and-bred Hu just happened to live across the way.

Hu's eyes brighten with an affectionate enthusiasm when asked which Peruvian dishes Arce likes most.

"Ceviche," Hu responds immediately. "Raw fish prepared with lemon." As for Chinese food, bean sprouts and xiangsuji (fried savory chicken) rank among Arce's favorites.

Naturally, food isn't the only thing he misses about Peru. Arce has relatives there whom he thinks about often, and he says the country is also blessed with a beautiful climate and fabulous natural diversity.

Arce stands as the interview wraps up, courteous as ever. Then he breaks into one of his smiles. It's easy to imagine this same smile, lighting up a corner of a meeting-room, and causing officials to take notice of a South American country called Peru.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/cityguide/2008-09/12/content_7023717.htm

The Summer Palace in the summer ...

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0389C507.002C

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http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0389C8FC.002C

Tian'anmen Square before National day holiday


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http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/038A66A8.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/038A65F7.002C

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-10/01/xinsrc_262100501084937516363.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-10/01/xinsrc_262100501084981239164.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-10/01/xinsrc_2721005010849234296425.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-10/01/xinsrc_2721005010849531190976.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-10/01/xinsrc_2721005010849843295717.jpg

Gosh, the last one looks so real!!!

some beijing photos from a photography contest

http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/8079/2008106121340ct2.jpg

http://img78.imageshack.us/img78/4285/2008926222437cr6.jpg

http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/5526/2008927103235ia4.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/2168/20081010155425170853675um2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
(beijingupdates.com)

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081016/0022190dec450a60e6fd05.jpg
Sculptures inspired by Chinese characters stand on the China Millennium Monument Square in Beijing, October 15, 2008. A solo exhibition of 78 sculptures by Chinese artist Liu Yonggang started on Tuesday, China’s largest and longest modern sculpture exhibition. The show will last almost one month until November 12, 2008. [CFP]

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081016/0022190dec450a60e70506.jpg
A sculpture is seen in an outdoor exhibition at the China Millennium Monument Square in Beijing, October 15, 2008. A solo exhibition of 78 sculptures by Chinese artist Liu Yonggang started on Tuesday, China’s largest and longest modern sculpture exhibition. The show will last almost one month until November 12, 2008. [CFP]

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081016/0022190dec450a60e70807.jpg
Sculptures stand on the China Millennium Monument Square in Beijing, October 15, 2008. A solo exhibition of 78 sculptures by Chinese artist Liu Yonggang started on Tuesday, China’s largest and longest modern sculpture exhibition. The show will last almost one month until November 12, 2008. [Asianewphoto]

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081016/0022190dec450a60e70b08.jpg
Visitors take photos in front of a sculpture on show at the China Millennium Monument Square in Beijing, October 15, 2008. A solo exhibition of 78 sculptures by Chinese artist Liu Yonggang started on Tuesday, China’s largest and longest modern sculpture exhibition. The show will last almost one month until November 12, 2008. [Asianewphoto]
(ChinaDaily)

by cobble, beijingupdates.com

http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/5781/200810252231374504nm3.jpg

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/7310/2008102522263784242rk2.jpg

Group wedding ceremony in Bird's Nest

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081026/00096bb163c30a6eaf501d.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081026/00096bb163c30a6eb3fc3a.jpg
European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso (R) shakes hands with a groom at the ceremony. Two hundred and thirty policemen, who took part in Olympic security work, tie the knot in a group wedding ceremony held in front of the Bird's Nest in Beijing, October 26, 2008

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081026/00096bb163c30a6eb0021e.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081026/00096bb163c30a6eb1671f.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20081026/00096bb163c30a6eb4f347.jpg
Two hundred and thirty policemen, who took part in Olympic security work, tie the knot in a group wedding ceremony

Beijing Autumn (pictures in Oct 2008)

The summer palace
http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/1919/03914d8bpq8.jpg

Sanlihe road
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102620403154664.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102620483356923.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102620484945813.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102620482592277.jpg

CBD
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102520204779886.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102520232266181.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102520242869809.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102520281390279.jpg

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/2168/20081010155425170853675um2.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3198/2966625776_5f12782deb_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3216/2965776391_4c9e59f3f3_b.jpg

10-26, the Great Wall

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102619562323731.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102619583039963.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102620143754707.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3241/2967043458_1fb0ffce6c_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3029/2967056602_3c5820bce3_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3228/2966225541_a98ab69391_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3221/2966194429_4b1f481778_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3072/2967056610_c319b28b3b_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2966196877_ecae6c31d2_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2016/2967056598_823db5ece0_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3137/2967056592_1fe010541d_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/2967056596_1f15e315f3_o.jpg

http://i35.************/2yyxf6p.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3289/2961398752_9273da356c_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3027/2960559431_c811718b99_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3163/2961432894_be38699aa8_o.jpg

http://i33.************/v8dlpc.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3276/2870923558_a852dee369_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3132/2860898166_487710c8b5_b.jpg

http://i34.************/2n1vndx.jpg

http://i36.************/2ecnamh.jpg

http://i34.************/3166cqr.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3294/2949223782_60b0ed1619_o.jpg

http://i36.************/b8lc9z.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/2949156527_54437a6bfe_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3156/2949155065_978d092577_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3002/2949150157_bacb44bb2a_o.jpg

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/4981/2008102616185217272rp3.jpg

a drum band
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll8/foglio16/1.jpg

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj103/foglio5/1003-32.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/1012-5.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3208/2940498713_0eff090253_o.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/3_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3149/2935901060_172000d0ef_o.jpg

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll8/foglio16/_7.jpg

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0391050D.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03910AD1.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/038F7C8E.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/038F7D0E.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/038F7D2A.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/038F7DA6.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/0392395A.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03923AC0.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03923BB1.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03923B8D.002C
(Foglio)

the following pics taken by cobble, beijingupdates.com
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102521145515248.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102521165326998.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102521183856834.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102521203923566.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102521243926527.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102521293797931.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/200810252132697409.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008102521335783083.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/200810252149351571.jpg

Beijingers' manners 'getting better'

2008-10-31


The Olympics has sharply improved the manners of Beijingers, a survey of more than 13,200 people has revealed.

The survey found that a politeness index devised by the Renmin University of China had risen to 82.68, on a scale of 0 to 100, up almost 10 points on an equivalent survey held last year.

It was conducted after the Olympics among 12,000 Chinese, 1,200 foreigners living in Beijing for more than two years and drawn from observations at more than 300 public venues.

"The government's efforts since it won the right to host the Games and local residents' willingness to be a polite host have been the main reasons," Liao Fei, a sociology professor with the Beijing-based university, told China Daily on Tuesday.

The most significant improvement was in the category of spitting.

Last year, 2.5 percent of respondents said they spat wherever and whenever they felt the need, but the rate fell to 0.75 percent in this year.

When it came to another notorious behavior - queue jumping - the proportion of Beijing residents who said they pushed in ahead of others waiting in line fell from 1.5 percent to 0.67 percent.

From February to August, Beijing issued 2.8 million pamphlets about etiquette to households and offered training to public servants and 870,000 service sector workers.

The city has also designated the 11th day of every month a "voluntary queuing day" to gradually rid the city of queue jumpers.

Liao attributed the government's greater scrutiny of visitors to Beijing and the odd-even plate control traffic restrictions, which meant buses and subway cars were less crowded than usual, to the city's improved etiquette.

"Although the government's efforts would have still made the change happen, without the temporary measures the change would not be so significant," Liao said.

Liang Xiaomeng, a graduate of a British university, said Beijing residents are very warmhearted.

"Once I lost my way finding the company that was interviewing me, but a Beijing local led me there," Liang said.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2008-10/31/content_7160450.htm

remember there's similar survey and similar result after 1990 Beijing Asian Games. but I feel Beijingers still have room to improve their manners.

Hot pot rocks.:banana:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/2967056596_1f15e315f3_o.jpg

Awesome Shots. Well done. Beijing looks wicked. cant wait to visit

Beijing in 1901
http://upfile.cat898.com/UploadFile/2008-9/200892782540533.jpg

^^ Nice donkey. I wish I had one to ride :)

Edit: you can add this picture to "Beijing Urban Transport" thread. :lol:

所有照片都是非常美丽！！ 我喜欢这个城市，很多。
我爱北京和中国。 :)

致以诚挚的问候阿根廷科尔多瓦！

Thank you! I'm a big fan of Argentina soccer team and Maradona :)

Beijing Autumn - North 2nd Ring

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/200811414393955807.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/20081141441591085.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/200811414414819202.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/20081141443235505.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/200811414452136995.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/20081141449021989.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/20081141451664353.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/200811414563991424.jpg

By 万卷书虫 :)
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/200811518442322477.jpg

great pictures, thanks

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/3082/27430940sm2.jpg

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/2063/3e487fd9t579e76cdfebd00vu6.jpg

http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/7457/3e487fd9t579e785ac25c00nh1.jpg

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/8229/39809300ym6.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/4764/80041437ex8.jpg
(sina.com)

xidan night

http://img122.imageshack.us/img122/1696/3e487fd9t579e7c2b492d00lt3.jpg

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/8240/73843191cy6.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/8643/42642597kl1.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/9793/3e487fd9t579e7df50b4f00df0.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/6858/3e487fd9t579e7e6f203400ts8.jpg
(sina.com)

Beijing is gorgeous!!! :DDD

i was listening to " the edge of the world" song by 30 seconds to Mars while looking at all the pictures and it is really the city of dreams comes true ;)

That city has more sand in its central business district than there is the Gobi desert.

That city has more sand in its central business district than there is the Gobi desert.

the sand actually comes from the gobi desert sandstorms

i assume there are still more sand in the gobi desert

the sand actually comes from the gobi desert sandstorms

i assume there are still more sand in the gobi desert

I was actually referring to the amount of glass in those high rises.

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/039DEC1B.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/039DEC9E.002C
(bbs.home.news.cn)

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/20081172043498662.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-11/200811720503252161.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

Then 2nd pic is so beautiful!

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/2008101917435937311.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/200810191885869119.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/1027-65.jpg

http://i33.************/69m4o6.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/200810211142728787.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-10/200810211154272852.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

Diaoyutai（ 钓鱼台 ）Guest House
http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A301D0.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A30213.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A30278.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A37756.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A379B3.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A379C1.002C
(bbs.home.news.cn)

http://i35.************/15bqzp.jpg

http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg113/foglio6/1016-23.jpg

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/028E44E1.002F

http://i35.************/1zz2ufn.jpg

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A403BB.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A4047F.002C

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03A38841.002C
(bbs.home.news.cn)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/3070794948_40b87deb16_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3140/3069956501_d6af6f1b9c_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3247/3069956699_553a1fc6f0_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3158/3069957113_95aec78d91_o.jpg
(flickr.com)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/3069957223_7ed0d54b46_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3207/3070795624_e35cd60bac_o.jpg
(flickr.com)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3029/3073991843_300bdccd7a_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3199/3074826564_2a5867cf29_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3060/3073993461_32e504efd9_o.jpg
(flickr.com)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3242/3074300822_61bc3e7fd2_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3187/3073467179_1a5831c4e2_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3286/3073467975_40f7349b46_o.jpg
(flickr.com)

aerial
http://img384.imageshack.us/img384/3121/2008121018555249571ki6.jpg

flight shot
http://img384.imageshack.us/img384/5595/200812101637144158jz4.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

http://news.xinhuanet.com/photo/2008-12/10/xin_10212051016457501610310.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/photo/2008-12/10/xin_00212051016465623034413.jpg

http://news.xinhuanet.com/photo/2008-12/10/xin_10212051016459212340011.jpg
(xinhuanet.com)

^^ Does it only snow in part of the Great Wall or does it snow all over Beijing now ?

^^Nice pictures. Liked the Beijing aerial at night scene. How did you manage to get that photo since it was likely taken from an airplane at night?

wooooooo!!!! the most amazing pictures of a capital city i ever seen!!

5 stars!!

^^ Does it only snow in part of the Great Wall or does it snow all over Beijing now ?

in all Beijing areas and it snows lighter in downtown.

^^Nice pictures. Liked the Beijing aerial at night scene. How did you manage to get that photo since it was likely taken from an airplane at night?

you are right, it'a taken by someone from a night flight. normally it's hard to take a clear night photo from the airplane, it's a popular one on beijingupdates.com, you can see Beijing's 3rd ring, 4th ring and 5th ring road clearly from it.

Beijing's winter scene is amazing.

http://img384.imageshack.us/img384/5595/200812101637144158jz4.jpg

WOW!! That's incredible!

Beijing is in winter now. Re-post some GW pics taken in Dec 2008.

I'll have a short trip to Beijing this Friday and hope I can take some pics :)

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/6071/20081212341026692ae7.jpg

http://img58.imageshack.us/img58/7423/200812123183999385an4.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

Designer's square 计师广场

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-12/2008121618161635438.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-12/2008121618103080011.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-12/200812161821123121.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2008-12/20081216183872598.jpg
(beijingupdates.com)

OMG, the building above is so funky!!

some pics taken end of nov 08.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3256/3159140267_c262fd5544_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3040/3159975148_acd661bf4f_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3121/3159975994_01382963dc_b.jpg

all were taken from in a car

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2593.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BD74F6.002C

Grand Opera House

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB28C5.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BEED91.002C
(xinhuanet)

here's some Beijing 2008 pics. what a splendid year for Beijing.

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB28F9.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2919.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB29D2.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB29F6.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2A20.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2A39.002F
(xinhuanet bbs)

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2A7D.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2A9A.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2BF2.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2C06.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB315A.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB3171.002F
(xinhuanet bbs)

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2AC2.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2ADA.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2AFB.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2B39.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2B5C.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2B9F.002F
(xinhuanet bbs)

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2C3A.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2C67.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2CAB.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2CCB.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2D17.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2E31.002F
(xinhuanet bbs)

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2E59.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2EF6.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB3056.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB30A1.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB30DE.002F

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB311F.002F
(xinhuanet bbs)

beautiful! Beijing got both the ancient and the modern in one city :cheers:

Beijing´s GDP exceeds 1 trillion yuan

Source: CCTV.com
01-12-2009 17:01

Beijing Municipality's gross domestic product, a main gauge of economic growth, exceeded one trillion yuan in 2008, up nine percent year on year.

Beijing mayor Guo Jinlong made the statement in a government report on Monday. He says the city's per capita GDP topped eight thousand US dollars, or around 54-thousand yuan in 2008. Beijing is one of ten regions in China with an annual GDP of over one trillion yuan.

Beijing´s GDP exceeds 1 trillion yuan

trillion is 100billion, beijing1 has 10trillion not 1 trillion,1000亿就是trillion，10亿是billion，懂吗？

:ohno: Basic math:

1 quadrillion = 1000 trillion
1 trillion = 1000 billion
1 billion = 1000 million
1 million = 1000 thousand

Beijing's 1800 flyovers

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/762/resizeofud0j393tclk51d1ib9.jpg
larger picture (<a href="http://img107.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ud0j393tclk51d1p7h8jk5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/4787/ud0j393tclk51d1p7h8jk5.th.jpg" border="0" /></a>)

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/9165/resizeofkce5ict9lm52907os3.jpg
large picture (http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/8423/kce5ict9lm52907l27bpt7.jpg)

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/517/resizeofixv7zb0d7fedvblbm5.jpg
large picture (http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/8800/ixv7zb0d7fedvblzx4ezk0.jpg)

(beijingupdates.com)

amazing.

but it seems 1800 flyovers are not enough to resolve Beijing's traffic problem.

1.12 CBD
http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/4862/20091122150937516nw2.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

1.18 Shichahai

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-1/200911820404915049.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-1/200911820415393865.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

[QUOTE=big-dog;30529072]here's some Beijing 2008 pics. what a splendid year for Beijing.

http://bbs.home.news.cn/upfiles/03BB2A20.002F

QUOTE]

Nice photos. What type of camera do you have? And, what lense settings were you using?

I have a Nikon D40 but this picture was not taken by me :) I got it from xinhuanet bbs.

Here're more of Beijing photos from xinhuanet.

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/9154/03bb329erm9.jpg

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/8449/03bb417fpe8.jpg

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/4135/03bb559apy2.jpg

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/2838/03bb573cjb6.jpg

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/3323/03bb271afm6.jpg

continued...


http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/4757/03bb261dqh7.jpg

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/4253/03bb221ems8.jpg

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/9809/03bb79fess2.jpg

http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/1294/03bb31d7mz6.jpg

http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/3539/03bb31a7ix4.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/5908/03bb26dahr7.jpg

http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/3738/03bb25c4np3.jpg

http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/186/03bb23f0qr2.jpg

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/5748/03bb23dalg7.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/74/03bb2202pb3.jpg

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/760/03bb559axr6.jpg

(xinhuanet bbs)

Happy 牛 Year!! ★_★☆_☆ (●￣ε￣●) (｡◕‿◕｡) `★`⌒`★ o(∩_∩)o..✿.~~新年快乐~~^^ to you all...!!:cheers:

holy shit, awesome.

yes,amazing

nice

Beijing considers charging vehicle emission fees

2009-01-31

Beijing's environmental watchdog said it considered charging emission fees on vehicles in order to improve air quality and curb rapid car growth.

An official with the Beijing Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau blamed vehicles for emitting particulate matters.

Statistics from Saturday's Beijing Youth Daily showed Beijing had more than 3.5 million registered vehicles by the end of 2008.

The municipal government was thinking of charging emission fees in accordance with air displacement of vehicle engines and respective emission standards.

However, charging of emission fees should be approved by the government, the official said, adding that a public hearing might be held before the measure is implemented, the paper said.

Beijing takes a temporary restriction on vehicle running in the city. One fifth of the vehicles, mostly private cars, are banned to run on road each day.

Starting from 1998, three Chinese cities, Hangzhou, Zhengzhou and Jilin, introduced the vehicle emission charges on a trial basis. The practice ended in 2003, yielding satisfying results.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/bizchina/2009-01/31/content_7433437.htm

http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/4397/03bb3187nv3.jpg

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http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/5084/03bb2446le0.jpg

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/6319/03bb2655wt8.jpg

(xinhuanet forum)

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/8149/03bb79bazu7.jpg

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http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/8810/03bbb3d4vj2.jpg

(xinhua forum)

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/723/03bbb589ja3.jpg

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/8637/03bbb6f3jz7.jpg

(xinhuanet forum)

http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/9980/03bbb5f1ak7.jpg

http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/6867/03bb5729mv5.jpg

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/7241/03bb5586kl3.jpg

(xinhuanet forum)

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/723/03bbb589ja3.jpg

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/8637/03bbb6f3jz7.jpg

(xinhuanet forum)

is that completely ice? i see a lot of people just running around

yes it is. I was playing all day long with this kind of ice sled when I was a kid :)

北京近几年变化很大！

Wow, great night shots.
THX for sharing

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721251458774.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/2009272127943621.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721282346074.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721352598659.jpg
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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/2009272142225016.jpg
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http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721525075983.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721535369485.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721551024428.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721565023799.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092721594964896.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/2009272243936523.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/2009272254152063.jpg
http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/2009272214317592.jpg

^^ thanks for sharing, I like the 2nd picture!

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/2009272127943621.jpg

I was in Beijing for 2 months last year during the Olympics, absolutely LOVED it!

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/6476/2009241923530583aa0.jpg

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/4770/2009241954048806qg7.jpg

http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/9349/20092419144962874ne4.jpg

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http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/3135/200924195427116xb9.jpg

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/8882/2009241916261599ma4.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

Beijing's winter

http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/7171/20092720365180709wd1.jpg

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/6797/20092720352499492dn6.jpg

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/4449/20092720421584187hl6.jpg

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/970/20092720455739386pd3.jpg

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http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/6043/20092720564380803zi0.jpg

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/3790/20092720553148509kq1.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

continued...

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/1214/20092720583440711ny6.jpg

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http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/3027/2009272043381309yo2.jpg

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http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/8808/2009272075069663jq0.jpg

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/3694/2009272091770163fj4.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

continued...

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/4131/2009272105840621vb1.jpg

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http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/1708/20092720263119566aj9.jpg

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http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/6044/20092720344634289pa2.jpg

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/9039/20092720312957187qh2.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

wow!! those pictures are sweet!!!:master:

Mandarin Oriental Tower was burning.....:shifty:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3B1OnhSucP8&eurl=http://vinnyswebsite.com/blog1/video-fire-mandarin-oriental-hotel-building-cctv-beijing-headquarters-youtube/&feature=player_embedded

Any pix of the burned-out building in daytime? I heard the fire went on through the night, right?

^^

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=32071140#post32071140

Beijing is fantastic.:cheers:

I'm not sure if Mandarin Oriental Tower still wants to use that tower :(

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/200921521432973930.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/200921521442997141.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/200921521461019725.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/200921521472712328.jpg

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/UploadFile/2009-2/20092152149823444.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

Beijing embraces first snow since winter

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090217/0013729e4abe0b0472bf3c.jpg
A snow-covered car is seen on a road in Beijing, February 17, 2009. The Chinese capital embraced the first snow of 2009 early Tuesday morning.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090217/0013729e41140b04932e53.jpg
A girl plays in a parking lot in Beijing

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090217/0013729e4abe0b0474f03f.jpg
Women practice fan dancing in the snow at a community park in Beijing

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090217/0013729e4abe0b0474f040.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090217/0013729e4abe0b0474ef3d.jpg

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090217/0013729e4abe0b0474ef3e.jpg

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/3002/xin43202061719038902692ex2.jpg

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/2806/xin43202061719035934187ul7.jpg

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/8030/xin43202061719034682632wy8.jpg

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/8397/52c4443l00ap0001kw1.jpg

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/3442/52bo8cgl00ap0001mo0.jpg

http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/3979/52bjud6t00ap0001tg7.jpg

http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/7489/200921810365691672bw8.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090219/0013729e42ea0b06e5e912.jpg
Two kids play with snow at Zhongshan Park in Beijing on February 18, 2009. The first snow this year began to fall on China's capital city Beijing in the wee hours of Tuesday, bringing with it joy to the city that had endured a long dry period.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20090219/0013729e42ea0b06e61415.jpg

beijing's four seasons are equally beautiful :)

Desheng Men 德胜门

http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/5449/6999be0a6cd3adde80f8cae.jpg

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/3729/68a4976f43d96311e5dac01.jpg

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http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/3931/f4afcd94e8c068ff3dff082.jpg

(forums.nphoto.cn)

I'm not sure if Mandarin Oriental Tower still wants to use that tower :(

I don't think anybody wants to use that building any more :ohno:

Feel bad for Madarin Oriental.

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/5909/20092721133096863mc6.jpg

I'm a bit worried on this news...

Zhang Yimou: Fireworks to dazzle on Oct 1

By Wang Ru (China Daily)
Updated: 2009-03-05

Riding on the success of the Beijing Olympics last year, movie maestro Zhang Yimou is ready to treat audiences again with a fireworks extravaganza for the 60th anniversary of the country's founding on Oct 1 in Tian'anmen Square.

"It will be a celebration for every Chinese citizen," Zhang told China Daily yesterday at a group discussion by art and literary members of the 11th National Committee of the CPPCC.

"It won't simply be a 'big show'. I intend to bring every Chinese cheer on the birthday of the motherland," the director of the Beijing Games opening and closing ceremonies said, without elaborating.

Zhang was also unfazed by safety and security concerns over the use of the pyrotechnics, following a massive blaze at State broadcaster CCTV's new complex in downtown Beijing last month that was sparked off by illegal fireworks.

"We shot off 700,000 fireworks during the Games under strict safety regulations. I won't worry too much about it," he said.

Zhang, who is famous for directing movies like Raise the Red Lantern and Hero, also said he would make a film for the anniversary celebrations and is working on the script for it.

"I became known through films about rural life in China I will keep on making such films," Zhang said.

As a famous member of 11th National Committee of the CPPCC, Zhang tried to sneak pass reporters on his way into the Great Hall of the People at the opening of the Second Session of the CPPCC on Tuesday, but an alert female reporter spotted and tried to stop him from behind immediately.

Members of the press also found Zhang when he took a short break from yesterday's group discussion at a hotel in Beijing.

When asked about his stance on the hot topic of Chinese celebrities changing their nationalities, Zhang said those were personal decisions.

But the director added he had given up his United States green card since making films in China made it inconvenient for him to hold onto the residence permit.

Zhang also expressed his concern over how some Chinese people were still eating wild, endangered animals in parts of the country.

"It has tarnished China's image abroad and we should put a stop to such practices," he said.

As for his take on the ongoing financial crisis, Zhang said he would leave it to the experts.

"Its too vague for me. The economists should be the ones explaining to ordinary people how and why the crisis happened."

Beijing Sanyuan Bridge area, looks like a small version CBD

by cobble, beijingupdates.com

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/425/20093118242026116.jpg

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/7671/2009311828769811.jpg

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http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/885/2009311912655535.jpg

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http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/164/62163372.jpg

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http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/2139/20093118581483413.jpg

http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/4420/2009311859034875.jpg

(from cobble, beijingupdates.com)

^^
What a group of beautiful and refreshing shots. Love them all!

i juz wanna know what happened to beijingupdates.com
cuz i cant go in the forum anymore!!

^^ try this link to enter the forum directly. :)

http://www.beijingupdates.com/forum/index.asp?boardid=1&page=1

yea that works
btw try www.beijingupdates.com
this will lead u only to the album

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/4131/2009381985291100.jpg

http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/5570/20093819105143878.jpg

http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/8987/2009351525481634.jpg

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http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/6264/20093618422625094.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

前门大街，是北京的一条街道，位于北京的中轴线上，北起前门，南至天桥路口，连接天桥南大街。前门大街是北京传统的商业街，毗邻天安门广场，人流密集。大栅栏胡同也在前门大街上。

前门大街从2004年开始大修，于2008年8月奥运前完工。经过大修之后的前门大街，面目焕然一新。新前门大街成为一条步行街，有许多中华老字号，如同仁堂，全聚德，张一元等。

http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1000/20080424/00080287d098097a26db06.jpg

http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1000/20080512/00080287d0980992445222.jpg

http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1000/20080512/00080287d098099243751b.jpg

http://www.dzdaily.com.cn/xinwen/shandong/200709/W020070921345730002955.jpg

http://i2.sinaimg.cn/travel/china/2008-10-09/U3037P704T2D29376F101DT20081009145712.jpg

http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1000/20080409/00080287d0980966587a01.jpg

http://images.china.cn/attachement/jpg/site1000/20080520/000802e406ec099c67fe04.jpg

Great Wall viewed from air

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/3310/45728053200903151848031.jpg

http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/3310/45728053200903151848031.jpg

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/5739/45728053200903151848031s.jpg

Miyun Reservoir (frozen)
http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/7842/45728053200903151848031b.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

Beijing is looking good

http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/7070/200931619312162659.jpg http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/6061/200931618341333860.jpg

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/4852/20093161973172403.jpg

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http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/2135/200931619451877750.jpg

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/9606/200931619543868323.jpg

(beijingupdates.com)

Public asked to vote for Beijing's top 10 new buildings

www.bjd.com.cn Updated:2009-04-02

People around the world are being invited to vote on Beijing's 10 best modern buildings in the fourth such poll since the 1950s.

The results of the poll would be revealed before Oct.1, when the country celebrated the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, said Xun Yongli, secretary-general of the organizing committee of the selection campaign.

The project was aimed at highlighting the achievements of the reform and opening-up in Beijing and promoting the city's image ofan international metropolis, said Xun.

The public were welcome to vote via newspapers, a website or by SMS text message for their favorites among the 100 buildings listed on www.shidajianzhu.com, the official website.

The public vote would count for 60 of the final tally and expert judges for 40 percent.

Recommended by building experts, the 100 candidates were built after 2000 and include the main Olympic venues of the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, and the National Center for the Performing Arts.

The selection was jointly organized by the Beijing Daily Group and Beijing Construction Association, and co-sponsored by key Beijing media.

Public votes for Beijing's best 10 buildings were held in the 1950s, 1988, and in 2000-2001.

Among the favorites in the previous polls have been the Great Hall of the People on Tian'anmen Square, Beijing Railway Station, CCTV's former office building, China International Exhibition Center, and the Capital Library.

我喜歡北京的夜景。

Public asked to vote for Beijing's top 10 new buildings

www.bjd.com.cn Updated:2009-04-02

http://www.shidajianzhu.com/images/2j_03.jpg

here's my vote:

1. CCTV
2. Bird Nest
3. National Opera House
4. Water Cube
5. WTC III
6. Capital Airport T3
7. New National Museum
8. New Poly
9. Financial Street B7
10. South Station

Beijing drops as tourist destination

www.chinaview.cn 2009-04-10

BEIJING, April 10 -- A combination of factors, apart from the financial crisis, have resulted in less overseas tourists visiting Beijing.

The number of holidaymakers visiting the capital fell by 11 percent to 436,491 in January and February this year, Gu Xiaoyuan, deputy chief of Beijing tourism administration, said yesterday.

The amount of tourists from Japan and South Korea - which represented 40 percent of the inbound market in recent years - decreased by 16 percent on the same period last year.

Gu said some Japanese travelers did not travel to China because they were concerned by the food safety in China.

"If the negative image caused by food safety issues cannot be corrected, its impact on the inbound market will linger," she said, without elaboration.

In South Korea, the fast depreciation of its currency against the yuan has increased the price of tour packages to China, she said.

More importantly, its government has stopped all overseas student tours this year, and asked citizens to reduce overseas travel to help combat the recession.

However, the number of tourists from Hong Kong increased by 15 percent and there were 25 percent more holidaymakers from Taiwan, the figures show.

The small administrative region of Macao posted a 106 percent rise.

In addition, the number of North American tourists increased by 6.6 percent which was "unexpected", Gu said.

Liu Ping, manager of an inbound Beijing tour agency, said her business had experienced a decrease in overseas customers.

The administration has said it was aiming for a 5 percent growth on major indexes, including tourism revenue, year on year.

To achieve the goal, Gu said, the city will try to promote it as a popular destination for business tourism, which brings in high-end tourists with lots of money.

There are also plans for Beijing to sponsor influential sports events, including NBA games in the United States, and the Chinese F1 Grand Prix in Shanghai, to promote the city as a tourism destination.

(Source: China Daily)