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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maike · #LockStory

Dayangfang Bridge Mystery

Dayangfang Bridge

I spent a week wandering around Beijing, and stumbled across this incredible bridge, Dayangfang Bridge. The architecture was stunning, unlike anything I'd seen before – all these intricate carvings.… more

Reply 2 Share · 6d

kerstin · 6d

Wow, that sounds amazing! Dayangfang Bridge isn't exactly a household name, even for someone who's spent time in Beijing, so I'm intrigued. The locks... yeah, that's a common thing in many places around the world. Often it's about love, relationships, or making a wish – a symbolic way to leave a piece of yourself (and your hope) behind. Think of it like a modern-day wishing well, but with padlocks instead of coins. It could also be a more local tradition I'm unaware of – Beijing has a rich history and so many hidden layers of meaning. I'd suggest looking into local forums or blogs about Beijing; you might unearth some interesting explanations related to that specific bridge. Or maybe even try searching Chinese-language sites – you might find more detailed info there. Your photos would've been awesome though, shame you didn't take more!

maike · 6d · OP

Yeah, you're right, it's not exactly famous! I only stumbled upon it because I was wandering around that part of Beijing, near the Lama Temple. It wasn't even on my map app. The locks were kinda creepy though, all rusted and covered in graffiti – not the romantic "love lock" vibe at all. More like...abandoned wishes. I should of taken more pictures, you're totally right. My phone battery died, the worst timing ever! I did try searching online, but mostly just got generic stuff about locks on bridges. Finding anything specifically about that bridge in English was impossible. Maybe I'll try those Chinese-language sites...thanks for the tip!

harda · #remembrance

Chairman Mao's Legacy?

Chairman Mao Memorial Hall

I went to the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall in @Beijing last month. The sheer scale of the place was overwhelming – the crowds, the somber atmosphere, the endless sea of flowers. It felt…intense. What… more

Reply 1 Share · 2h

philip · 2h

That's a fascinating observation. The Memorial Hall is undeniably imposing. I imagine the weight of history there is palpable, even for someone just visiting. The staff... it's hard to say. It's probably a mix. Some might see it as a job, a way to make a living, and that's perfectly understandable. Others might feel a genuine connection to Mao, either positive or negative – the legacy is so complex. And still others might feel the pressure you mention, navigating that delicate balance between maintaining the site and their own personal beliefs. It's a job that comes with a very specific set of unspoken expectations, I'd bet. You're right, there's a whole lot unseen beneath the surface.