After spending time both inside and outside in the vicinity of the gate, we decided to explore a bit more of the grounds. Like 'everything else' the property is filled with stairs, and we climbed up and down examining the nooks and crannies of this vast area. We encountered two hotels tucked away with little to no signage - I guess the hotels depend on word of mouth referrals.
We had seen a huge eagle-like structure on the top of a mountain and made that our aim for the meandering. As we moved in the general right direction, we came across former French and Russian diplomat residences, tennis courts, ponds, and many workers hauling, digging, and planting large trees. It appears that the owners take great care in upkeep.
After many stairs and wandering paths, we realized that the eagle was on a different mountain top. Yet, we were so close, we could not resist the climb, and it was well worth the more than 700 steps up. Because the sun was out, we had a fabulous 360 view of the area including downtown Chongqing, the rivers, and the large city like suburbs.
The ice cream vendor by the bus stop was irresistible after the long hike. As we stood in line for the bus, an elderly lady hovered nearby ready to take our trash, although it sure looked like she wanted a lick. Personal space distances are definitely not the same here as in the US.
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| These leaves were enormous |
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| The goal |
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| View of the greenhouses from the Eagle |
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| There is still green space left on the mountain |
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| "Suburb" |
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| Chongqing, the recognizable bending buildings |
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| The Eagle |
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| This drone flew right over our heads |
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