After buffet breakfast at the hotel we boarded our motorcoach. First stop was a Jade Factory. A spokesperson explained the history of jade and its importance in Chinese culture. He then showed us how to distinguish real jade from fake (real jade will cut glass and makes a melodic sound when tapped). There were a couple of glass enclosed workplaces where we could observe jade pieces being carved. The artists were amazing but I wondered if enough precautions were taken to protect these craftsmen. (One of many times I cheered the existence of OSHA in the US)We then toured the factory showroom where we saw beautiful jade carvings, jewelry, etc. I think lots of credit cards got swiped at the jewelry counters.
Back on the bus at 11:30 headed for the Ming Tombs. This was a beautiful Saturday and as we drove through the countryside saw early spring bloomers, forsythia, lilacs, fruit trees. In fact, traffic was heavy because many city dwellers were travelling out of town to observe the beautiful flowers. (The city of Beijing was quite smoggy this day..we were told this is often the case)
The Ming Tombs form a group of Mausoleums of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Fengshui was used in placement of buildings..harmony with nature. We walked around the complex and saw some artifacts.
After visiting the tombs, we left for the Cloisonne Factory where we witnessed the intricate process of producing this enamelware. (Again, I would have called OSHA.) Beautiful, beautiful objects for sale in the showroom. We had lunch at a restaurant within the factory. Lunch included a sample of a drink similar to sake. (I didn't like it)
After lunch we headed to the highlight of our day, THE GREAT WALL.
TO BE CONTINUED
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