Drum and Bell Tower

Our Friday outing had to start with lunch....a delicious roll from the bakery and a cold drink.  We took the subway to the Drum and Bell Tower area and rode a rickshaw a mile or so to our destination.  This was a motorized Rickshaw...no hand pulled ones anymore.  The huge Drums were sounded every three house to let the people know the time about the 7th and 8th centuries.  The stairs leading up to the Tower were very steep and were deep steps.  Our tongues were wagging and we thought we were at the Great Wall again! We waited about 45 minutes to see the Drum demonstration which was most interesting.  We found a very quaint little cafe to have lavender tea and a delicious goodie. This little place had a winding staircase that led to the wooden tables, a reading room with games and magazines.   Our last visit was to the Bell Tower that is located maybe a football field away in the same walled area.  The large bell was sounded every three hours right after the drums were beat.  A final gong of the bell was given when everyone in the Forbidden City were to be in bed.  A few pictures to show you the city view in this area.  Notice how close the roof tops are...these are Hutongs.  We were sorry that it was so hazy.  We did get lost coming out of this area and we walked a good five miles to find the subway! It was interesting to look at all of the little stores and shops along the way.  We met a young Chinese guy and he said he was going to the subway.  We think he was lost himself but he never let on.  He asked several people along the way and we finally made it!