More Closures Announced Ahead of Jul 1 Anniversary Celebrations
Beijing has been both hustling and bustling all month long as the capital gears up for the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party on Jul 1.
As we mentioned previously, the government has already implemented tightened security measures by shutting down parts of the city, enforcing wider traffic restrictions, and temporarily closing a few major landmarks. Likewise, a number of sources in the F&B and hospitality scene say they've been told that entertainment businesses located near the Jul 1 festivity center, or where rehearsals are taking place, (including parts of Dongcheng district and Liangmaqiao area) have been asked to close through Jul 1. However, repeated calls to businesses in the area have yet to turn up a pattern of precisely which industries will be affected. So fair warning: If you plan on visiting your favorite bar, KTV, or foot massage joint in the near future, it's best to call ahead.
As for other major attractions, here are some recent updates on what to expect:
Forbidden City, National Museum, Chaoyang Park, and more will temporarily close
Following the closure of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City has also announced its closure in line with rehearsals happening in the surrounding areas. The museum will be closed from Jun 26 to Jul 2.
National Museum: closed from Jun 25, reopening Jul 2.
Capital Museum: closed from Jun 22, reopening Jul 2.
Olympic Tower: closed on Jun 17, Jun 18, Jun 22, Jun 25, Jun 29.
Chaoyang Park: closed on Jun 19 from 6am to noon.
Li Dazhao Former Residence: closed from Jun 18 in the afternoon to Jun 19 in the morning.
Goddess Beiding Temple: closed from Jun 6 to Jul 1, reopening Jul 2.
Helicopters to perform at the 100th celebration
You may have noticed a rehearsal parade of helicopters over the holiday weekend. Well, you can expect the frequency of such events to begin increasing. This year, the Chinese military’s warplanes, including stealth fighter jets and the J20, a newly developed helicopter, will be hovering over Beijing's sky for a special performance.
It's still not entirely clear where the helicopters will be flying on Jul 1, but If you're able to catch a view from your area, expect to see warplanes carrying colored smoke and fighter jets in a flying-V. Additionally, it's important for kite enthusiasts and drone operators to keep in mind: all drones, model air crafts, kites, balloons, or any other small flying crafts are completely prohibited within all nine districts of Beijing until at least after Jul 1.
Railway photo exhibition opens at China Railway Museum in Beijing
As part of the celebrations, a new photo exhibition at the China Railway Museum will offer tourists a glimpse of the steelworkers who forged the history of China's railway development. From the 130-year-old "No. 0" steam locomotive that operated during the infamous Tangshan earthquake to the high-speed Beijing-Shanghai railway that opened in 2011, the exhibit explores how Beijing's railways reflect the city's constant evolution.
Most of the 90s-generation – who were born into China's period of affluence and upward mobility – never experienced the trials and tribulations of their forebears. As such, the exhibit serves as a chance to peek into that world.
READ: Beijing Hotspots Closed for This Month, Traffic Restricted in Central City
Images: Unsplash, Weibo
