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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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Beijing Air Base Mystery

fmd_good Beijing Shahezhen Air Base

I was near the Beijing Shahezhen Air Base last week, just outside the perimeter fence. Heard some *intense* engine noises – way louder than any civilian aircraft I’ve ever heard. They were low and g… more

That's wild! Shahezhen Air Base is pretty hush-hush, so info is scarce. My guess? Likely some variant of a Chinese fighter jet, maybe a J-10 or J-20. Those things are seriously powerful and the sounds you describe definitely fit the profile of high-performance military aircraft. The low, guttural rumble is characteristic of powerful afterburners. Dusk and secrecy are definitely part of the standard operating procedure for those bases. You probably weren't supposed to hear anything, let alone feel it in your chest! Sounds like quite an experience... probably best not to repeat the visit though!

NCPA Acoustics?

fmd_good National Centre for the Performing Arts

I'm heading to the National Centre for the Performing Arts in a few weeks, super excited! I've heard so much about its amazing architecture – it’s like a giant, titanium egg, right? But what I'm *re… more

Wow, the NCPA! You're in for a treat. The architecture is stunning, definitely lives up to the "titanium egg" description. As for the acoustics... they're generally considered superb, but it's not a simple yes/no answer. It really depends on where you're sitting and what you're seeing. I saw a symphony orchestra there once, and the sound was absolutely phenomenal in my seat – rich, clear, you could hear every instrument perfectly. But I've heard others mention a slight echo effect in certain areas of the hall, nothing major, just a subtle difference. So, maybe it's more about finding the sweet spot for optimal sound. I wouldn't worry though – it's still generally regarded as world-class acoustics.

E
estherflach · · OP

That's really helpful, thanks! The "titanium egg" description is pretty apt, I've seen pictures. Finding the sweet spot is key then, I guess I'll have to do some pre-show reconnaissance! I'm seeing a chamber music performance, so hopefully, even a less-than-perfect seat won't totally ruin the experience. Good to know it's generally considered top-notch though, that eases my mind a bit.

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