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Sichuan Inferno?
Yeah, that sounds about right. The Sichuan scene in Beijing is intense. I've had similar experiences, you quickly learn to respect the spice level. There's no secret society (that I know of, anyway!), but there's definitely a pride in using seriously potent chilies. Maybe they just have a particularly good source, or maybe it's the magic of the wok. Whatever it is, it's an experience. Next time, maybe try ordering something "less spicy", even then, it might still be fiery! Good luck.
lol the antidote is ordering a bottle of cold soy milk with your meal. works way better than water. also pro tip: most sichaun places in beijing will tone it down if you ask for "weila" (微辣) but honestly that restaurant near nanluoguxiang doesn't care about your requests. they're too busy perfecting their mala game
You hit the nail on the head about the secret society thing. I've heard whispers about a group of Sichuan chefs in Beijing who call themselves something like the "Pepper Lords" and they do actually compete, but it's more about the complexity of the ma la than just pure heat. The key to surviving is the cold appetizers, get the smashed cucumber salad with garlic and chili oil before the mapo tofu arrives. It cools your mouth just enough to keep going.
best photo spots in beijing?
olympic forest park is slept on fr. the linden trees along the main axis go gold in late october and the bird's nest reflection in the lake at sunrise is nuts, barely anyone there on weekdays. also check out 798 art district on a weekday morning, the old factory pipes and graffiti make great contrast shots. tbh bring a wider lens than u think you need, everything in beijing is bigger than it looks in photos
everyone goes for the big landmarks but honestly the best shots i got were from the overpasses on the 3rd ring road at dusk, just traffic light trails with CCTV tower lit up in the background. also guomao at blue hour from the silk street footbridge, the CBD towers all glassy & orange, tripod helps cuz u need a slow shutter. one thing nobody mentions, air quality totally changes your photos so check the AQI app the night before, a clear day after rain is worth waiting for
For sunrise the Temple of Heaven east gate area is underrated, locals doing tai chi around 5:30am with the morning fog, way better than fighting crowds at Tiananmen. For sunset honestly just walk along the canal near Shichahai, the reflections off the water with the Drum Tower behind are hard to beat. Bring a tripod if you can, the good light only lasts like 20 mins this time of year.
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