Florian Weiler | Photography

Japan 2024

Florian Weiler — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 23:04:55 +0000

Japan 2024

Tokyo

In autumn 2024 I spent a few spare days in Japan, mostly in Tokyo and Kyoto. I really love Japan, the people are very thoughtful, considerate and respectful. You feel it in small things: quiet trains, clean streets, patient lines, and gentle service. The food is great from tiny ramen shops to simple sweets, and there’s real care in craft and design. Even on a short trip, the mix of daily life and tradition feels welcoming.

Omoide Yokocho

Steps from Shinjuku Station, Omoide Yokocho is a warren of post-war lanes where tiny izakaya grill yakitori over open flame. Most spots seat 6–8, take cash, and run late.

Shinjuku Golden Gai Seville

Golden Gai keeps an old Tokyo vibe, bar owners know your name by night’s end, and each doorway feels like a secret club. Seville balances grandeur and ease: the Alcázar’s courtyards by day, Alameda de Hércules’ bars by night.

Nakamise / Sensō-ji

Nakamise-dori is the shopping street leading from the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) to Hozomon and the main hall of Sensō-ji in Asakusa. Small shops sell ningyo-yaki cakes, kaminari-okoshi rice crisps, fans, tenugui towels, and summer yukata. The five-story pagoda rises behind the roofs.

Sensō-ji is Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, dedicated to Kannon. Incense drifts from the large burner, and visitors draw omikuji paper fortunes. Mornings and evenings tend to be quieter. Nearby side streets have smaller craft stores and simple soba counters.

Tokyo’s vening machines

In Tokyo they’re everywhere, turn a corner and one or two are already there, humming softly like little shining robots. At night their panels glow blue and red, tiny lighthouses that seem to watch the street as people drift past. Some offer hot coffee in winter, chilled tea in summer, a can of soup when the air bites. The machines stand patient on station platforms and back alleys alike, bright sentries that make the dark feel a bit friendlier.

TeamLab Borderless

TeamLab Borderless is Tokyo’s “museum without a map,” an immersive digital art space where works spill across rooms and change as people move through them. After closing in Odaiba, it reopened in 2024 inside Azabudai Hills near Roppongi, with 75+ pieces and several new installations.

Highlights include the Infinite Crystal World’s LED “galaxy,” Bubble Universe’s glowing spheres, the Light Sculpture series, and Sketch Ocean, where drawn sea creatures appear in a giant digital aquarium. Compared with sister site teamLab Planets (Toyosu), Borderless is more about wandering interconnected rooms than wading through water.

Kyoto

Kyoto feels calm even when it’s busy. Wooden machiya and narrow lanes shape Gion, and the Kamo River gives the city a bit of open space. Temples and shrines set the tone: Fushimi Inari’s orange gates up the hill, the gold of Kinkaku-ji, the gardens at Ginkaku-ji and Ryōan-ji. Arashiyama’s bamboo grove sits on the edge of town, and the Philosopher’s Path shows off the seasons, cherry in spring, deep reds in autumn. Food leans delicate and local: kaiseki, tofu in hot broth, matcha sweets. Nishiki Market squeezes all of that into one covered street. Buses, subways, and bikes handle most trips, and nights are more lanterns than neon.

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest peak at 3,776 m (12,389 ft), a near-perfect cone rising about 100 km from Tokyo. It’s an active volcano, last erupting in 1707, and a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural role in art, religion, and pilgrimage. The mountain anchors a landscape of five lakes, forests, and small towns; on clear days it’s visible from Tokyo’s outskirts and even from passing trains. Climbing happens in summer (roughly July to early September), when trails and huts open. Outside that season, Fuji is a snow-topped landmark, often hidden by clouds, suddenly revealing itself at sunset or after a winter cold front. Shrines around the base and along the trails reflect centuries of worship and mountain-walking traditions.

Tokyo

Some more impressions from Tokyo

Andalusia 2024

Florian Weiler — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 16:17:56 +0000

Andalusia

In June 2024, I flew to southern Spain, rented a car, and spent a week exploring Andalusia. My journey took me through some of the region’s most captivating cities and landscapes.

Starting in Granada, I visited the Alhambra and wandered through the Albaicín district. The next stop was Cordoba, where I was impressed by the Mezquita’s unique blend of architectural styles.

Sevilla offered vibrant sights such as Plaza de España and the Seville Cathedral. In Cadiz, I enjoyed the coastal scenery and the historic charm of the old town.

Ronda’s dramatic cliffs and the Puente Nuevo bridge were an absolute highlight, while Gibraltar provided a mix of British and Spanish influences with remarkable views from the Rock of Gibraltar. Marbella’s beaches and lively nightlife added a touch of relaxation and excitement to the trip.

A standout experience was hiking the Caminito del Rey, a pathway through narrow gorges with stunning vistas.

Granada

Cordoba

Seville

Cadiz

Ronda

Marbella

Gibraltar

Caminito del Rey

Santorini 2024

Florian Weiler — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 20:05:44 +0000

Santorini

In April, Lea visited Germany and we decided to go on a trip to Santorini. Our journey to the island was filled with anticipation, and Santorini did not disappoint. The iconic white-washed buildings with blue domes were even more beautiful in person, creating a striking contrast against the deep blue Aegean Sea.

Fira

Fira, the capital of Santorini, sits right on the edge of the caldera, providing amazing views of the cliffs and the Aegean Sea. The town is lively, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops to explore. It’s a great place to experience the energy of the island while enjoying its natural beauty.

Pyrgos

Pyrgos is a charming village in Santorini, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and panoramic views from its hilltop location. It offers a quieter, more traditional experience compared to the busier towns of Fira and Oia.

Oia

Oia, perched on the northern tip of Santorini, is known for its incredible sunsets and beautiful views. The village has narrow streets filled with charming shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The white-washed buildings with blue domes look like they belong on a postcard. Oia has a relaxed vibe, making it a perfect spot to unwind and take in the scenery.

The rest of the island

Besides Fira, Pyrgos, and Oia, we also explored the Red Beach, Akrotiri, Perissa, Kamari, Paralia Vlichada, some more places along the coast, and the volcano island.

Philippines 2024

Florian Weiler — Mon, 20 May 2024 20:54:06 +0000

Philippines

Earlier this year, my good friend Janice from Beijing and I traveled to the Philippines after I wrapped up a business trip in Shenzhen. We visited the busy streets of Manila, admired the incredibly beautiful landscapes of Palawan, and made brief stops in Bohol and Cebu Island.

Metro Manila

While in Manila, we stayed within the bustling city of Makati, otherwise known as the financial district of Metro Manila. Makati is full of high buildings, swanky shopping centers, and very vibrant nightlife.

We spent a day visiting Intramuros, the historical heart of Manila. We strolled over the cobbled streets amidst well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, visited such iconic places as Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.

Quite nice was also the trip to Manila Ocean Park, where marine-life displays are both instructive and highly attractive, for a pleasant diversion from the noisy city streets.

Palawan

Palawan was the absolute highlight of our trip to the Philippines. Janice and I flew to Puerto Princesa and then took a car to El Nido, a journey that set the stage for an incredible adventure.

We enjoyed two wonderful boat tours around the islands near El Nido. In the crystal-clear waters, we went snorkeling and kayaking, spending perfect hours on some of the most pristine beaches we’ve ever seen. We also visited Lio Beach and Duli Beach to the north, and Las Cabañas Beach to the south, where we were greeted by a beautiful sunset.

One particularly exciting part of our stay in El Nido was the short hike on the El Nido Via Ferrata Canopy Walk. The hike offered great views of the town and the surrounding landscapes, adding another touch of adventure to our visit.

Next, we took a boat from El Nido to Coron, where we spent two days exploring the natural beauty of the area. We took additional boat trips around Coron, which revealed even more breathtaking scenery. A memorable hike up to the Mount Tapyas Viewdeck provided us with a stunning panoramic view of the island.

Our time in Palawan was filled with adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring landscapes, making it the most memorable part of our Philippine journey.

Bohol

Our day trip through Bohol was filled with interesting activities and beautiful sights. We began the day with a short ATV ride through very muddy terrain and visited the Chocolate Hills, a unique landscape of rolling hills.

We also had the opportunity to see the legendary tarsiers, the smallest primates in the world. Observing these tiny creatures in their natural habitat was a fun and unique experience.

Cebu island

After our time in Bohol, Janice had to return to Beijing, and I continued my journey to Cebu Island, specifically to Moalboal.

Close to Moalboal, I went on a canyoneering adventure at Kawasan Falls. The combination of ziplining, trekking, jumping, and swimming through the canyon was both fun and challenging.

The highlight of my time in Moalboal was diving with the famous sardine run. Swimming amidst the massive school of sardines was an awe-inspiring and surreal experience, easily one of the most memorable moments of my entire trip.

Taiwan 2023

Florian Weiler — Sat, 02 Dec 2023 22:37:05 +0000

Taiwan

After winding down my business trip in Beijing, I embarked on a straightforward two-week exploration of Taiwan. From the streets of Taipei to the quiet charm of Sun Moon Lake, the historic vibes of Tainan, and the breathtaking landscapes of Taroko National Park, my journey through Taiwan offered a great relaxed experience.

What struck me most was the notable contrast between China and Taiwan. Unlike China, most people in Taiwan speak reasonably good English, or at least they try their best to engage in a conversation. It made getting around and talking to locals a lot easier. The friendliness of the folks in each place, whether I was navigating the lively atmosphere of Taichung, experiencing the bustling energy of Kaohsiung, or wandering through the historical streets of Jiufen, added a genuine touch to my travels.

Practicalities made a difference too. The convenience of using Google for restaurant recommendations, the orderly traffic allowing pedestrians to cross without a fuss, the ease of hopping on the metro in each city without needing my passport, or the possibility to check into every hotel as a foreigner simplified the day-to-day significantly.

And then there’s the freedom of information. Taiwan allows unrestricted access to news from all over the world. No forced narratives or censorship – just a refreshing openness to diverse perspectives. From Taoyuan to the East Coast, the absence of restrictions on information made my journey all the more enriching.

In essence, my trip through Taiwan was a revelation of contrasts – a place where language, hospitality, practicalities, and freedom of information seamlessly came together. From bustling metropolises to serene landscapes, Taiwan’s charm lies not just in its beauty but in the warmth of its people and the ease of exploration.

Taipei

Taipei is the big and busy capital city of Taiwan. It’s a mix of tall buildings and traditional culture. One famous building is Taipei 101, which used to be the tallest in the world.

The city is famous for its delicious food. One can find tasty treats in night markets and street stalls, like soup dumplings and other yummy street food.

If you want some nature, Taipei has even some mountains. Elephant Mountain is a popular spot where one can hike and see a great view of the city.

Getting around Taipei is easy with its great public transportation. One can explore different neighborhoods like Ximending and Da’an, or relax in parks. Taipei has a bit of everything for everyone!

Sun Moon Lake and Taichung

Sun Moon Lake is a beautiful and serene destination located in the central part of Taiwan. It’s the largest lake on the island and is surrounded by lush green mountains, creating a picturesque landscape.

The lake gets its name from its shape, which is said to resemble the sun on one side and the moon on the other. This natural wonder is not just about its scenic beauty; it’s also a place of cultural significance for the local Thao people, who have a deep connection to the lake and its surroundings.

Xuanzang Temple, situated on the hills surrounding the lake, offers a glimpse into the religious and historical aspects of the region. Additionally, Wenwu Temple, with its majestic architecture, stands as a tribute to Confucius, Buddha, and the legendary military strategist Guan Gong.

Tainan and Kaohsiung

Tainan was the place where Portuguese sailors first arrived on the island. They gave it the name ‘Formosa,’ meaning beautiful, because they were struck by its beauty and green landscapes. Tainan is one of the oldest cities on the island and was the capital during various historical periods. The term ‘Tainan’ is derived from the local indigenous Siraya language, where it means ‘Taiwan’ or ‘southern Taiwan.

South and East Coast

There was a typhoon warning during my travels along the south and east coast. The typhoon wasn’t very strong, but many places were closed. It was a bit challenging because I couldn’t visit all the places I wanted to. Despite that, I still enjoyed the journey and saw some cool sights along the way. The weather was a bit windy and rainy, but I made the best of it and still had a memorable adventure along the coast.

Taroko

Taroko National Park is an amazing place in Taiwan, famous for its beautiful marble cliffs, deep canyons, and lush green trees. Sadly, when I was there, a typhoon warning meant that many parts of the park were closed to keep everyone safe.

Even though some places were closed, I could still see how incredible Taroko is. There were tall marble walls and rivers that shone a bright green color, making the whole place look like a scene from a movie. Because of the typhoon, the weather in Hualien, where the park is, felt mysterious. Clouds covered the mountaintops, making everything look magical and dreamy.

I couldn’t explore the park as much as I wanted to because of the typhoon, but I saw enough to realize how beautiful Taroko National Park is. Even with the limited experience, it made me really want to come back and see more of the park’s natural beauty when the weather is better.

Jiufen

Wow, Jiufen was such an amazing place! The little streets on the hills with a view of the ocean felt really old-fashioned. It’s like the town still remembers when people mined for gold a long time ago during the Japanese colonial period.

Walking in Jiufen was like going to a museum that’s alive. The buildings looked like they were from a different time, around a hundred years ago. There were red lanterns hanging in the streets, making it feel really special and different.

Jiufen Old Street was like a big maze with so many cool things. The market was busy and had a lot of energy. Every time I turned a corner, there was something new – local snacks, handmade things, and funny souvenirs that I wanted to take home. The smell of food from the street filled the air, and I had to try a bit of everything.

And the tea houses! They weren’t just places to drink tea; they were like special experiences. I found one with an amazing view. Sipping tea and looking at the coastline was really peaceful and nice.

Even when it rained, I thought about the movie “Spirited Away.” The rain made it a bit tough, but it also made everything feel unpredictable, like in the movies. Jiufen, with the rain, felt like a dream with a bit of a challenge.

Jiufen wasn’t just for tourists; it was like a journey through time. It was like a big treat for my senses – seeing, smelling, and tasting so many cool things. Every part of Jiufen had a story from the past. I really loved it, and I’m happy I got to see its special charm.

Indonesia 2023

Florian Weiler — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 20:49:33 +0000

Indonesia

In May 2023, I wanted to see more of Indonesia. Last autumn, I had already been to Bali and Nusa Penida, and since I loved both islands very much, I was really looking forward to my trip. My plan was to visit Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bali again, as well as Gili and Lombok.

Yogyakarta

In Jakarta, I first met up with Lea, and together we took the train to Yogyakarta. The 6-hour train journey was very enjoyable and undoubtedly much more interesting than if we had taken a flight. In Yogyakarta, we visited the Buddhist temple Borobudur, Candi Prambanan, Candi Sewu, and the Taman Sari bathing complex.

Bali

On the short detour to Bali, we visited the Tegenungan Waterfall, the adjacent Glass Bridge, the beautiful Penglipuran Village, and the Tukad Cepung Waterfalls before continuing to Gili Trawangan by speedboat.

Gili

The Gili Islands are a group of three small islands located off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Each island—Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno—offers its own unique charm and atmosphere.

Gili Trawangan, the largest of the three, is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling beach bars, and lively atmosphere. Gili Air strikes a perfect balance between a relaxing retreat and a social environment. Gili Meno, on the other hand, is the quietest and most secluded, offering a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

One of the main attractions of the Gili Islands is the absence of motorized vehicles, creating a peaceful and eco-friendly environment. Instead, transportation is mainly by horse-drawn carriages called cidomos, bicycles, or simply by walking.

Lombok

Due to the limited remaining time, we stayed in the north of Lombok and explored the Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. Sendang Gile has a 30-meter drop, while Tiu Kelep is larger and more powerful at 45 meters. The trek to these waterfalls is a scenic adventure through lush forests and rice fields.

Back Home

The journey back home led us briefly back to Bali, where we visited the German Beach and enjoyed some relaxing time at the hotel.

Vietnam 2022

Florian Weiler — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 19:08:58 +0000

Vietnam

Saigon

Shortly after Christmas I went to Vietnam. I wanted to spend my free time between the holidays in a warm country. My first stop was Saigon.

Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, is the largest city in Vietnam and located in the very south. It was once the capital of the French colony of Cochinchina. Evidence of this colonial past can still be seen today in many buildings. The city is famous for its food, street markets, roof bars and it’s vibrant coffee culture.

I spent there a few days bevor I made a short trip to a camping site at the Sông Đồng Nai river.

Vietgangz Glamping Club SaiGon

The campsite is located 45 minutes by car east from Saigon and a nice place to have a view relaxing hours at the Sông Đồng Nai river.

Phú Quốc

Phu Quoc is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand, off the coast of Cambodia and just an hour flight from Saigon.

At the airport I met Lea, a model I knew from Bali, and we set off to our first destination close to Dương Đông

Dương Đông

Dương Đông is located on the west coast of Phu Quoc and is the largest town on the island. Close to the town is one of the most popular beaches, the Long Beach which we used for a nice long walk on our first day.

One of the main attractions of Dương Đông is its vibrant night market with a lot of variety of local dishes, such as seafood hotpot, grilled meats, and Vietnamese pancakes.

In the town we booked a boat trip to some smaller islands in the south of Phu Quoc which we visited at the next day.

Sunset Town

The sunset town is a huge resort in the style of a Mediterranean town on the coast of the island. It was built by the Sun group, one of the leading leisure facility and park operators in Vietnam. It wasn’t finished and almost empty when we arrived and gave us a kind of ghost town feeling.

Rocks Beach Boutique

Our next destination was the Rocks Beach Boutique on the east side of the island. It’s a nice and quite place where we relaxed and enjoyed our ocean view from our veranda.

Ấp Gành Dầu

From the Rocks Beach Boutique we went to Ấp Gành Dầu, a small fishing village on the northwest coast of the island. We explored village life and took a trip to nearby starfish beach.

Grand World Phú Quoc

Like Sunset Town to the south, Vinpearl Grand World Phú Quoc is a large entertainment complex. This is owned by Vingroup, which also built nearby Vin Wonders amusement park, a massive 27-hole golf course, and is currently working to build one of the largest zoos in the world here.

Saigon

On the way back home we made a short stopp over in Saigon to enjo the Bến Thành Market and Saigon’s nightlife.

Most of the pictures were taken with a Xiaomi 12S Ultra smartphone. In addition, I used my Fuji X-T2 camera for a few shots.

Bali 2022

Florian Weiler — Sun, 29 Jan 2023 21:15:24 +0000

Bali

In the late summer of 2022, my wanderlust was reignited and I desired to experience something new.

A few weeks prior, Mei and I had ended our relationship, so I decided to embark on my journey alone.

I was searching for a country that offered warmth, sun, broad beaches, and stunning landscapes. It also had to be a sociable place, somewhere I hadn’t visited before. After much consideration, I chose Bali, and I do not regret my decision. I took a four-week trip, reserving six accommodations in five different locations, and set off in early September.

Bali is a truly stunning island located in Indonesia and it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular tourist destination. From its breathtaking beaches to its lush green rice paddies and traditional temples, Bali has something to offer for everyone. The culture of the island is rich and vibrant, with friendly locals and a strong sense of community. The food is also fantastic, with a mix of local Indonesian cuisine as well as international options. Overall, I would highly recommend a visit to Bali for anyone looking for a relaxing and unforgettable vacation.

Canggu

My first accommodation was a bungalow located just outside of Canggu. It was a lovely and peaceful place surrounded by serene nature. I rented a scooter there, which made it easy and convenient to explore the area. The roads in Bali are very narrow, and the traffic in Canggu can be heavy. A scooter was the perfect way to get around. Canggu is a very laid-back and open-minded place, and I soon made some great acquaintances. One of them was Lea, who was very passionate about my photography. We did a brief photo shoot on the beach and in my bungalow.

Ubud

From Canggu I went further north to Ubud which is located in the central region of Bali. Known as the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is renowned for its rich artistic heritage, stunning natural beauty, and spiritual atmosphere.

Here I met Ling, and we went on a walk through the Hidden Canyon (Beji Guwang) and did a short shooting there. I also visited the Monkey Forest and the stunning Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where I spent several hours wandering.

Additionally, I took a trip in an old VW Kübelwagen, also known as a VW safari in Indonesia, to the Batur volcano in northern Bali.

During my journey to my next destination, I made stopovers at the Hindu temple Pura Goa Lawah and the temple complex Tirta Gangga.

Amed

Located in the northeast of the island, Amed is ideal for snorkeling and diving due to its calm seas and stunning coral reefs.

The area is dotted with small fishing villages and is relatively untouched by mass tourism. This gives it a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday experience.

I rented a budget-friendly bungalow at Ocean Prana and took part in a thrilling AIDA freediving course. Two of the standout experiences were meeting giant tortoises in the ocean and witnessing the stunning sunsets from Sunset Point Amed.

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida, located just east of Bali, is a small island that boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches I have ever encountered. The island is also renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for activities like snorkeling and diving.

During my two-day stay, I dedicated one day to snorkeling and exploring the northern and western parts of the island on my own with a rented scooter. For the other day, I hired a driver who took me to visit the renowned Diamond Beach, Klinking Beach, and Broken Beach in both the eastern and western parts of the island.

Seminyak

I spent the last few days in the south of Bali. My hotel was in Seminyak from where I enjoyed long walks along the beach up to Canggu and down to Kuta. By chance I met Lea again and we went on a trip to Uluwatu together, where we visited the Garuda Wisnu Kencana park and the Uluwatu Temple and did a photo shooting on the beach.

Most of the pictures were taken with a Xiaomi 12S Ultra smartphone. In addition, I used my Fuji X-T2 camera for a few shots.

Beijing 2022

Florian Weiler — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 21:35:22 +0000

Beijing

In March 2022, I embarked on a 3-month business trip to Beijing. It was a time when China remained largely cut off from the rest of the world due to the ongoing Covid pandemic. Securing flights to China was an arduous task, as they were scarce, incredibly challenging to book, and many were abruptly canceled shortly before departure. Moreover, direct flights to Beijing were non-existent. Luckily, I managed to secure a seat on one of the few charter flights organized by the German Chamber of Commerce Abroad to Qingdao.

Qingdao

Upon arrival in Qingdao, I found myself obligated to undergo a mandatory three-week hotel quarantine. I was fortunate enough to be allocated a room that offered a great view of the sea, lending a touch of solace to an otherwise restricted experience. The quarantine facility provided three delectable hot meals each day and a quite unpleasant PCR test every other day.

Chaoyang

After completing the hotel quarantine in Qingdao, I embarked on an express train journey to Beijing, a mere three-hour ride. Arriving in Beijing, I had the pleasure of staying at the luxurious Kempinski hotel, nestled in the vibrant Chaoyang district. The hotel’s location was truly enchanting, as it graced the banks of the picturesque Liangma River, beckoning me to indulge in a leisurely stroll along its tranquil shores. This refreshing walk served as a delightful respite, providing a welcome escape from the seclusion I had experienced during the preceding three weeks.

798 Art Zone

The 798 Art Zone derives its name from the 798 factory, which was built in the 1950s with the assistance of East Germany. Over the years, as the factory ceased operations, artists began to occupy the vacant spaces, giving rise to an artistic revolution that has flourished ever since. Today, the district showcases an impressive collection of galleries, studios, museums, and avant-garde exhibitions, making it a haven for both established and emerging artists.

City Center

On my first excursion to downtown Beijing, I wandered through the alleyways, taking in the essence of traditional Chinese architecture. Unfortunately, I was not allowed entry into the parks and buildings, as my Chinese Covid app had not granted me permission yet. Even after enduring three weeks of hotel quarantine and undergoing over a dozen PCR tests, I was still classified as a security risk by the Chinese authorities and had to steer clear of indoor spaces and crowds.

Changping

After one week, I moved into an apartment in Changping. The area where I settled essentially served the purpose of accommodating as many people as possible in a limited space. Consequently, I had an impressive view of even more impressive complex buildings. The fences surrounding each community were adorned with barbed wire, and due to Covid regulations, suppliers were not allowed to enter. As a result, thousands of deliveries piled up on makeshift shelves in front of the gates.

Beihai Park and Shichahai

I visited Beihai Park several times during my stay in Beijing. The park’s beautiful gardens and the serene Beihai Lake provided a welcome escape from the busy city. The park’s centerpiece is Beihai Lake, where one can enjoy boat rides, leisurely walks along its shores, or climb up to the iconic White Dagoba, a Tibetan-style stupa on Qionghua Island.

To the north of the park is Shichahai, which comprises three interconnected lakes—Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai. These lakes are surrounded by traditional courtyard homes known as hutongs, which showcase the architecture of old Beijing.

Jingshan-Park

Jingshan Park, located near the Forbidden City, offers stunning views of the cityscape. Climbing to the top of Jingshan Hill, I was greeted with a panoramic vista stretching from ancient palaces to modern skyscrapers. The park features beautiful gardens, pavilions, and winding paths that create a serene oasis in the bustling city. Historical structures like the Pavilion of Everlasting Spring add to its charm. Jingshan Park provides a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Beijing’s rich history and natural beauty.

Summer Palace

The Old Summer Palace, or Yuanmingyuan, is a ruined imperial garden complex in Beijing with a tragic history. It suffered significant damage during the Second Opium War in 1860.

The New Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was meticulously restored and showcases a harmonious blend of nature and architecture. It features stunning gardens, pavilions, and the picturesque Kunming Lake.

Great Wall

One of the few positive aspects of the pandemic was that most people in Beijing chose to stay at home. Due to the low number of COVID cases in the city, there was little fear of the virus itself, but strict restrictions caused apprehension. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time could result in a lengthy home quarantine or even being sent to one of the several central quarantine facilities. Additionally, with no Chinese or international tourists in Beijing, the popular attractions were not crowded. This provided us with a rare opportunity to visit the Great Wall of China without the usual masses of tourists.

Olympic Park

The Olympic Park and the Bird’s Nest in Beijing are famous landmarks from the 2008 Summer Olympics. The Olympic Park is a large area with beautiful gardens and water features. The Bird’s Nest is a unique stadium with an impressive design.

Tiananmen Square

Getting to Tiananmen Square was far from easy. I had to pass through three security checkpoints where they carefully examined my passport and electronic ticket. Upon arrival, the sight was surprising – only a few policemen, a cleaning lady, and myself occupied this massive square. There were no local Beijing citizens or tourists around, just vast, empty space. If you’re unfamiliar with the history of Tiananmen Square, a quick Google search will reveal its significance.

Forbidden City

Visiting the Forbidden City feels like going back in time and seeing China’s history. It’s a special place to experience the country’s rich culture and grand architecture. And just like on the Great Wall, the COVID measures had also resulted in a pleasant visitor density in the Forbidden City.

Gubei Water Town

Gubei Water Town is a charming destination located near the Simatai section of the Great Wall. It is designed to resemble an ancient Chinese water town, featuring traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals.