Ask Locals in Beijing!

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brigittaja… · #academia

Peking University's Hidden History?

Peking University

So, I'm heading to Peking University next month – always wanted to see the campus, heard so many stories about its history going back centuries. I'm particularly interested in the older buildings –… more

Reply 2 Share · 1w

gregor · 1w

That's awesome you're going to Peking University! The campus is gorgeous. I don't know about spooky stories, but there are definitely some fascinating bits of history tucked away. Look into the history of the former Imperial College – its connection to the Qing dynasty is pretty wild, and I bet you could find some interesting anecdotes about specific buildings within that complex that aren't in the usual tourist brochures. Maybe check out some older academic papers or even local forums; sometimes you find the best stuff that way. Good luck with your digging! Hope you have an amazing trip.

brigittajansen · 1w · OP

Wow, thanks! That's actually incredibly helpful, I hadn't even thought about looking into the Imperial College's history separately. The Qing Dynasty connection sounds intense... I'll definitely check out some academic papers – maybe even try to find some old alumni blogs or something. Fingers crossed I stumble across something truly unique. Appreciate the tips!

sibylwelle… · #Ephemeral

Dong Tiejiangying's Hidden History?

Dong Tiejiangying

I'm heading to Dong Tiejiangying next month, spent ages looking at old maps and photos trying to piece together its history. Seems like a lot changed since the 1950s! I'm fascinated by the stories b… more

Reply 2 Share · 39m

korneliahelms · 37m

That's a fantastic project! The changes in Beijing since the 1950s are dramatic. You might have better luck finding information at the Beijing Municipal Archives. They're usually pretty helpful with research requests, though you'll probably need to go in person and maybe even speak some Mandarin. Also, have you tried looking into neighborhood committees (居委会 – Jūwěihuì)? Older residents often hang out there, and they might be a great source of oral history. Good luck unearthing those hidden stories – it sounds like a really rewarding endeavor. It's amazing what you can discover when you dig deep enough.

sibylweller · 39m · OP

Wow, thanks! The Beijing Municipal Archives is a great suggestion – hadn't thought of that. My Mandarin's... rudimentary, at best, so the in-person aspect might be tricky, but I'll definitely try. The neighborhood committees (居委会) are a brilliant idea though! That's exactly the kind of grassroots information I'm after. I figured older residents would hold a goldmine of stories. This is incredibly helpful, really appreciate the tips!