Part I, Tsejin
Today the China Group travelled to the Yonghe Lamasery. This monastery has an influence of Tibetan, Chinese, and manchurian Buddhism. As we entered the gates, we were immediately given incense. Many people prayed while burning the incense, so many of us did the same. There were many parts of the temple, and different gods in each one. The very last section had a large statue made of only one tree, and it was immensely detailed. Though this monastery was made up of Tibetan, Manchurian, and Chinese Buddhism, most of the Sanghas were Mongolian. It was very peaceful as we went in and out of certain sections. We had a great experience there, and were really honored to be able to go to the lamasery.
Part II, Chuma
Today, we visited the Tibetan Lamasery. As we entered the Lamasery, we were immediately surrounded by a cloud of both incense and praying civilians; some were local, and some were foreign. That being said, we were all somewhat united. Everyone was respectful of the rules and regulations of the Lamasery. As we continued to walk through the series of temples, the architecture seemed to be getting larger and more grand and the environment got more quiet. Everything ranging from the overwhelming smell of the incense to the humungous sculptures of the gods added to the experience and led to me feeling somewhat small compared to my environment. The spirituality and culture was immensely rich at the Lamasery and I enjoyed everything about it.
Part III, Chi
Spending my birthday in china was one of the best experiences of my life. Both going to a Tibetan lamasery and the Great Wall were amazing. The ride to the Great Wall took about an hour but felt like less. We got lunch close to the path to the wall, and it was very delicious. We then walked up a hill filled with merchants trying to sell us various items at extreme prices that we attempted to bargain with (some more successfully than others). The walk to the mountain was so tiring. The steps seemed like they would never end. As soon as we arrived, I was exhausted. The wall was huge, both long and wide. The wall looked like it went on forever. The view was breath-taking. Something that struck me whole on the wall was realizing how old it was. In the United Stated, many of out monuments aren’t even that old compared to Chinese buildings and landmarks. The Great Wall was rich with history and age.
