The Forbidden City

Today was incredible, it was a perfect first day in China. Seeing the Forbidden City was nearly breathtaking and the story to go along with the monuments were just as fascinating. I had seen pictures of the complex and feature films that took place there, but seeing it first hand was like nothing I had expected; it was massive! Simply walking through the city was exhausting, and the tower at the top of the hill at the end drained me. But it was well worth it; the views were incredible and the story of how the peasant uprising drove the emperor to hang himself was compelling. So compelling, in fact, that I have began reading more about the history and stories of the Forbidden City.
Another great aspect of today was the food. American-made Chinese food does not even compare to authentic. Chinese restaurants in America use way too much oil, whereas in China, it is much more natural with incredible freshness. My favorite was the lunch with the traditional Chinese family. The selection and quality of the food was divine and I wish restaurants in the US could duplicate that.
Overall, a terrific first day. And I cannot wait to see the Great Wall tomorrow!