“Have you ever heard of a city with two official flowers?” I ask, my voice echoing slightly against the ancient stones of Guijie, or Ghost Street, as it’s sometimes called. This narrow, winding lane, officially known as Guaicao Xiaolu, might not boast blooming roses or chrysanthemums, but it’s every bit as representative of Beijing’s vibrant spirit. Guaicao Xiaolu, or Hanging Wall Road, earned its nickname from the many vendors who once hung their wares on the walls lining this narrow passage. Today, “Ghost Street” is a haven for food lovers, but its history is far richer than its current culinary reputation. Beijing, established 3,000 years ago as the capital of the ancient state of Yan, has seen countless transformations. Guaicao Xiaolu, nestled within this ever-changing city, has witnessed these shifts firsthand. Imagine this bustling alley during the Ming dynasty, when Beijing officially earned its name, meaning “northern capital”. Perhaps vendors sold wares to the bustling crowds, their calls echoing much like the restaurant hawkers do today. While Peking Duck might be the city’s most famous dish, Ghost Street offers a diverse range of flavors. This mirrors Beijing itself, a city that blends ancient traditions with modern dynamism. Though the original hanging walls might be gone, the spirit of Guaicao Xiaolu remains. It whispers stories of a city that has been a center of power, culture, and life for millennia. So, as you savor the delicious aromas and vibrant energy of Ghost Street, remember that you’re experiencing a small piece of Beijing’s rich and layered history.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to