I had the wonderful good fortune of living in Beijing for a year while teaching in a university there. Bought a bike, braved the streets, used the great little yellow “bread box” taxis that I understand are being phased out. Had time a-plenty to sit and observe at all the wonderful Buddist temples, monuments, famous places. Dickered with the street sellers…what fun! Would LOVE to go back. In fact, I did, once…to Nanchang for a few months. I love the Chinese and have many friends there.