Pictures > Words.

Sculptor at the Silk Market. Yes, I bought purses. More on that later.

Across the street from Tiananmen Square, looking towards the entrance of the Forbidden City.

(And as an aside, are you noticing how GRAY everything is? I feel like I need to adjust my television screen. Anyhow...)

Heading into the Forbidden City.
Pretty much an historical amusement park. Crowds. Cheap toys for kids. Over-priced beverages. The Emperor would be proud.

Did I mention the Starbucks? Oh, yeah, it has a Starbucks.

All kidding aside, it's a beautiful compound. Sort of stunning to imagine all of the history that happened here during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Before I become cynical again, good night.