Onward we trekked, making new friends along the way.  Some spoke English, others spoke only a few words ("Hello!" or "Good Morning!" ...at 2:00 p.m.! or "U.S.A.!")  Surrounding us was the Forbidden City, home to emperors for centuries.  The Forbidden City has 9,999 rooms, because 10,000 would have been "perfect" and run the risk of angering the gods.  Better to be almost perfect!

This is in front of the Meridian Gate, the primary entrance into the Forbidden City.

After entering through the Meridian Gate, you proceed across a plaza and to the Gate of Supreme Harmony (left).  Guarding the gate are two imposing lions.  The male, above, always has a ball under his paw.  The female has a cub, instead.  So now you can tell the difference!

The Hall of Supreme Harmony

The Hall of Supreme Harmony is where the emperor greeted dignitaries.  Imagine this plaza filled with his soldiers and eunichs as visitors came calling!  The throne below left is inside the Hall.  Behind it is the Hall of Middle Harmony, which is more of an informal meeting area.  Details from the roof and more friends we met are below and right.

We met the teacher above escorting his students on the left.  We felt like this was a great moment for improving East-West relations.  As it turns out, we were BOTH silly tourists!

To the left is a detail of the roof.  The number of animals signifies the imperial rating.  10, shown here, is the top.  You better have a good reason if you go in this building!!!