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Ask Locals in Beijing!

Valueable advice or meet people in Beijing for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.

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Machikou Mystery?

fmd_good Machikou

So I'm heading to Machikou next month, it's for a photography project focusing on urban decay and rebirth. I've seen some incredible shots online of the old Hutongs blending with the modern architec… more

Image veronicagoepfer… ·

That's awesome! Machikou's a photographer's dream, that blend of old and new is seriously striking. Honestly, the best way to find those undocumented gems is to just wander. Get lost! Seriously. Don't rely too heavily on maps; let yourself stumble upon things. Talk to people – shopkeepers, residents – in the Hutongs. A simple "ni hao" and a smile can go a long way. They might point you towards something incredible, a hidden courtyard, an alleyway with a story etched into its bricks. Focus less on finding specific Hutongs and more on letting the area reveal itself to you. You'll be surprised what you discover. Good luck with your project; I can't wait to see the results!

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miazech · · OP

Wow, thanks! That's exactly the kind of advice I needed. I was so worried about trying to tick off a list of specific places, I should of just embraced the chaos a bit more. Getting lost sounds... terrifying and exhilarating all at once! I'll definitely try the "ni hao" approach – hoping my rusty Mandarin doesn't scare anyone away. I'll post some pics when I'm done; fingers crossed I find something truly special.

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miazech · #PekingDuck

Roast Duck Expertise?

fmd_good Quanjude

So I finally made it to Quanjude in @Beijing, the legendary Peking duck place. The hype was REAL. Seriously, the duck was incredible, crispy skin, juicy meat... amazing. But here's the thing: they b… more

Image wanda ·

Nah, the whole carving ceremony at Quanjude is totally standard. It's part of the Peking duck experience, a bit of a show. You weren't at a VIP table; it's pretty much the same for everyone. No need to feel awkward—just sit back and enjoy the spectacle. They're professionals, and they're used to people watching. You didn't miss anything crucial culturally; you experienced it! Honestly, some people even film the whole thing. Just savoring that amazing duck is plenty.

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miazech · · OP

Yeah, you're right. I guess I got caught up in the whole "event" of it all. I was so focused on whether I was doing it "right" that I forgot to just, you know, eat the duck. It was delicious, though! Maybe I'll try a smaller, less "ceremonial" place next time. Thanks for putting it in perspective.

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