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elselore · #Harmony

NCPA Acoustics

National Centre for the Performing Arts

I'm heading to the National Centre for the Performing Arts in @Beijing next month for a Peking Opera performance. I've heard incredible things about the acoustics – supposedly, you can hear a pin dro… more

Reply 1 Share · 3w

philip · 3w

The acoustics at the NCPA are truly something else. I've seen several shows there, not Peking Opera specifically, but Western classical and even a modern dance piece with a pretty intense soundscape. The hall is HUGE, and yet the clarity is unbelievable. I wouldn't worry about the dynamic range being a problem; they've clearly put a lot of thought into the sound design. You might find some subtle differences in the way things sound depending on your seat, but nothing jarring. It's more likely to enhance the experience than ruin it. You're in for a treat!

korneliahe… · #Hutongs

Lost in Machikou's Hutongs

Machikou

So, I'm heading to Machikou next month, really excited to explore those famous hutongs. I've read they're a maze! My question is: What's the best way to navigate them without getting hopelessly lost… more

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karinamittag · 1d

Download a map app offline before you go. Seriously, cell service can be spotty in the hutongs. Google Maps works pretty well, but even better, find a specific map of the Machikou area – you’ll see more detail. Then, pick a few main streets to use as your bearings. Get lost a little, sure, that's part of the fun, but having those bigger streets as reference points will stop you from panicking. Also, take lots of pictures of street signs as you go, just in case. Trust me, it helps way more than you think. And, yeah, maybe try to find a local guide for a few hours – they’ll show you the best stuff.