In my last few days in Beijing, Mark, Yoko and I went to 798 or Qijiuba, as pronounced in Chinese. 798 is Beijing’s hip art district, with exhibitions, cafes, shops and graffiti. I had always wanted to go to 798 when I studied abroad in Beijing last year, but never quite found the time. Even if you’re not that into art, I would definitely recommend an afternoon there. Wandering around 798 really made me realize how diverse Beijing is; with rich history, all-consuming politics and funky art.
If you decide to check out 798, make sure you go somewhat earlier in the day because all of the exhibits start closing around dinner time. 798 is an incredibly cool place to wander around, with political graffiti, Chinese hipsters and beautiful sculptures. Some of the exhibits cost money, but most are free!
Here’s a collection of some of the photos I took in the afternoon we visited.
Great blog, I love 798 district!
Thanks! I really need to go back again. There’s so much to see, I doubt I even saw half of it!
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