We will trace the long-winding road of China’s diplomatic relations with the West through the Hutong alleyways of Beijing on bicycles. From the first informal encounters to the establishment of a permanent diplomatic quarter in Beijing to Nixon's famous visit in 1972.
We will start at the old Imperial Observatory, where for many years Jesuit monks served the emperor. The Jesuits were among the first Westerners to gain intimate access to the Chinese imperial government and became an informal diplomatic bridge between China and Europe. After this we will visit the site of the old legation quarter, the site of the first foreign ministry, and much more.
This pop-up tour is a crash course in Chinese historical diplomatic relations with the West.
We’ll use shared bikes but welcome to bring your own bikes.
Where to meet: Beijing Ancient Observatory (just next to the Jianguomen subway station exit C) 北京古观象台
Cost: 350RMB per person