Ming Tombs

Our next sight-seeing adventure was to the burial grounds of the Ming Emperors. Situated in a most beautiful rural setting, the site was steeped in history and cultural tradition. As with most of the historical places that we have visited, the tombs were representative of Chinese traditional philosophy.

Rabbit Droppings at the Great Wall?

A two hour drive to the Great Wall of China was made thoroughly worthwhile when we scaled a steep section of it and enjoyed the amazing views that resulted. The ascent was surprisingly steep and tested most climbers – although Jumpin’ Jack Dewsbury took great delight in running most of the way! However, it was a little embarrassing that our students reported to our guide that this Wonder of the World was constructed to ‘keep the rabbits out’.

Final Concert and Awards Ceremony

The Chorale, by request of the adjudicating panel, performed Chindia and Tabulum to the large audience of other performers at the festival. Again, the Chorale performed to a very high standard. Four levels of achievement were acknowledged during the presentation ceremony – Gold, Silver, Bronze and Participation – and the Chorale was successful in obtaining a Silver award for their competition performance. This award is a most significant achievement in an international competition and is a credit to their hard work and talent. Dr Braham expressed his own delight in their achievement when he addressed them later in the evening. Buoyed by this achievement we made our way to the Beijing Duck Restaurant for the Festival Farewell Dinner. The ceremonial presentation and carving of the Peking Duck was a feature of the evening. The boys later commented on their delight at savouring this oriental delicacy.

Forbidden City

We then joined the large crowd and entered the main palace of the Imperial family that consists of a series of pagodas, courtyards and residences. It is the largest and best preserved collection of ancient buildings in China. This area was home to the Ming and Qing Dynasties for 500 years. The main residence includes 9999 rooms that served as a different bedroom for each night of the first 27 years of the ruling Emperor.

TC at Tiananmen Square

Our next day morning of sight-seeing included a visit to Tiananmen Square and history lesson from our very informative tour guide David. We witnessed the vast multitude of Chinese ‘pilgrims’ that visit Chairman Mao’s mausoleum on a daily basis. This most significant site was both fascinating and daunting as we heard of the events that occurred in 1989. It also provided us with an opportunity to see the Parliament of the People of China and the impressive monument erected in remembrance of those that participated in the ‘cultural revolution’.

Acrobatics

In the evening we were treated to an exhilarating Acrobatics performance in Beijing theatre. This breath taking performance kept all of us on the edge of our seats. Rich in colour and movement it was greatly appreciated by all and certainly included stunts that should not be attempted at home! Unfortunately photos or video of the show are not to be taken by the audience, however, we were able to purchase a DVD of the show. The performers derive from only three or four families from all of China and commence their formation as acrobats from the time that they can walk. A number of the members of these families make-up the National Acrobatics team of China that recently won the gold medal at the World Championships.

Tea Anyone?

Students and staff were treated to the delights of a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and tasted the different varieties available. Parents can expect to be enjoying Green, Oolong or Jasmine Tea on our return.