Peking Duck | R. Doug Wicker

Shengong Shengde Stele Pavilion

China was ruled by the Ming Dynasty from 1368 until 1644. During those 276 years there were sixteen Ming emperors. Following the collapse of the Ming Dynasty there were an additional seven Ming emperors who ruled over the so-called Southern Ming Dynasty, which ran from 1644 until execution of the last of the Southern Ming emperors eighteen years later in 1662.

Ming Dynasty Tombs

Located north of Beijing are the grounds which once held the tombs of thirteen Ming Dynasty Emperors. The Ming Dynasty Tombs were ransacked and many of the tombs on the grounds were burned in 1644 by the advancing rebel army led by Li Zicheng. One of these tombs — Dingling Underground Palace — was excavated and underwent restoration completed in 1959.

Ming Dynasty Tombs

Along the walkway through the grounds you’ll find many statues of government officials.

Ming Dynasty Tombs

Also lining the walk are large statues of guardian animals. As you walk past the animals you’ll find them going from a standing to a kneeling posture. Chen “Jim” Mao told us that this symbolizes that even animals would bow in the presence of the emperor.

Ming Dynasty Tombs

Alas, I know better. I own a cat.

Dinner was Just Ducky

There is a delicacy for which certain high-end restaurants in Beijing are famous. It’s called “Peking Duck.” I must say that it is indeed impressive.

After a very exhausting day our guide Mao Gu’i “Jim” Chen of China Spree turned us loose for a bit of rest back at the hotel, only to return a short while later to herd us to our next destination — the famous Bianyifang Restaurant dating back originally to 1855 using an established name that goes back even further. A lot further. To 1412 to be exact.

Can you imagine . . . a restaurant that traces its roots back to 364 years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and some 80 years before Columbus tripped over the New World on his way to Beijing for some Peking Duck?

The most incredible thing you’ll first notice about Peking Duck is the tasty, crisp skin. It’s simply indescribably. You just have to taste it to know what I mean. Served with the duck were lotus root, noodles, snow peas, other assorted vegetables, a type of crepe in which to place the duck meat, various condiments, and a rather interesting Yanjing beer.

Here’s the feast complete with descriptions: