Snowy highlights: Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park, Shouhuang Palace, Di'anmen (China Bookstore), Bell and Drum Towers

Without a doubt, Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park is the highest point in the central area of Beijing, and the pinnacle of the city's central axis. At the first moment after snowfall—no, you don't even have to wait for the snow to stop; just stepping up to Wanchun Pavilion while snowflakes are falling, you can take in a view that truly captures the essence of Beijing.

Looking north, the solemn Shouhuang Palace complex comes into full view, with the distant Drum Tower appearing faintly through the flying snow. To the east, the nearby courtyard houses and the distant high-rises illustrate the blend of ancient and modern in this city. To the south, the golden glazed tiles of the Forbidden City gradually become covered in white snow, while the dark red walls serve as a striking backdrop. The snow-covered Forbidden City might just be the most beautiful version of itself throughout the year. To the west, the white pagoda in Beihai Park and the White Pagoda Temple, alongside the distant Central Television Tower and the faint outline of Xishan Mountains, create a picturesque modern scene in western Beijing.

Exiting Jingshan Park to the north, you'll arrive at the intersection of Di'anmen Dongdajie (St) and Di'anmen Xidajie (St), where the elegant Yanchi Tower hangs the sign for "China Bookstore". This place offers a serene escape from the bustling surroundings. Against the backdrop of the blue-green painted beams, the golden sign appears especially dignified and classic. As you step into the bookstore, it feels like entering another world, completely separated from the chaos outside, where people are queuing to buy candied chestnuts. This is a great spot to relax, read, and search for books, especially with a large collection of ancient texts about old Beijing.

Continuing north along Di'anmen Waidajie(St), crossing Wanning Bridge, passing by mythical beasts and the Fire God Temple, you'll approach the Drum Tower and Bell Tower. Here, you can admire the snow on the Drum Tower, imagine the ringing of the Bell Tower, and watch the pigeons swirling around it. This is indeed Beijing.

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What does time sound like? Perhaps for old Beijing, it sounds like the chimes of the bells and drums. "Morning Bells and Evening Drums" evoke memories of the past, with the Bell and Drum Towers standing as classic ancient structures along Beijing Central Axis, positioned about a hundred meters apart. In ancient times, when timekeeping devices were not widespread, these towers fulfilled their roles day in and day out. "More than ten miles away, none could miss their sound." The Bell Tower features a half-domed roof and a layout with cross-vaulted openings, resembling two interconnected resonance chambers that enhance the depth and richness of the bell's tone, showcasing the wisdom of ancient people.

Nearby, you'll find well-preserved courtyard houses. Wandering through the alleys filled with these traditional homes, you'll occasionally stumble upon eateries serving authentic Beijing snacks, immersing you in the rich atmosphere of old Beijing.