Imperial Retreat

2009 09 15 – Day 81 – Chengde

Chinese Emperors spent significant time in the cooler valley climate of Chengde, escaping the summer heat of Beijing, which is why there are so many historical sites in the area. Much of their time was spent in Bìshǔ Shānzhuāng, which translates as 'Mountain Resort for Avoiding the Heat'. The resort is spread over a large area, including palaces, administrative and ceremonial buildings and is landscaped in such a way as to mimic the hugely varied terrain and undergrowth of all the Emperor's territory - there are grasslands, woods, hills and lakes. The various buildings and artifacts on display were interesting enough, but the real pleasure for me was wandering the grounds in glorious sunshine.

There were various minibuses and boats to help you get around, but I felt more inclined to explore by foot.

Being by myself and moving softly enabled this chance encounter:

I was amazed to be able to get so close (this is taken with a wide lens), but it didn't hang around for long, gliding gracefully into a wooded area nearby as other people approached less softly.

It was quite something to watch this fishy feeding frenzy provoked by tourists. I think they were using fish food... I hope so.

All in all, the gardens of the resort were a lovely place to spend a few hours wandering and sitting in g the shade reflecting.