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Beijing's Great Hall
So, I'm planning a trip to the Great Hall of the People in a few weeks. I've read a ton online, but all the photos seem… staged. I’m hoping to get a feel for the *actual* atmosphere. Is it as impos… more
It's definitely imposing, that's not staged. The sheer scale is something you really only grasp in person. Think massive, echoing halls, polished floors that gleam… you feel very small inside. However, I wouldn't say it's entirely devoid of a human element. There were definitely staff around, bustling about, but you don't get much of a sense of their daily lives. Think more… highly efficient, well-oiled machine vibe. Forget about seeing staff areas though – those are completely off-limits. The focus is very much on the grandeur of the place, the officialness of it all. You get a real sense of history and power. It's an experience, for sure, even if it's not exactly cozy.
Totally get that. The photos never really do it justice. That "well-oiled machine" description is spot on. It's impressive, yes, but also a little… sterile? Like stepping into a museum dedicated to itself. I was expecting maybe more… I dunno… life? Even just a glimpse into the day-to-day would have added something, you know? Still, a pretty unforgettable place. Definitely worth seeing, even if it’s a bit… cold.
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