- 1). Become acquainted with the traditional foods enjoyed by most Beijingers. One of the favorite local foods is called mung tofu, the remains from mung bean starch. Just like many foods in China, it was concocted to feed masses of poor people; but because of its unique flavor, it suits the taste of the rich, as well, so it is served at most Beijing restaurants. Another local favorite is deep-fried snacks, or jiao quan, that are made from flour and flavored by a bit of alum. Since it is hot and laden with fat, it is often consumed with a third Beijing favorite, douzhir, a fermented bean drink that most westerners think tastes nasty. Douzhir is high in Vitamin C, fiber, sugar and protein, and it helps to keep blood pressure in check as well as make you hungry.
- 2). Try playing kong zhu, a traditional game played by many people in Beijing. It consists of two sticks, attached by a string, and a notched wooden cylinder that the player attempts to manipulate while keeping it from hitting the ground. To be good at kong zhu, you need to use every part of your body to throw and catch the cylinder. Thus, kong zhu is a great way to lose weight or stay in shape.
- 3). Enjoy pets because having one is essential to the life of a typical Beijinger. You'll see birdcages galore, and it seems like there are more little dogs than there are people.
- 4). Live on a hutong or in a siheyuan, the latest trend for up-and-comers in Beijing. What make the latter interesting is that there are living rooms is at all four sides of the courtyard that forms the home's center. Both were popular years ago, much like the older areas of American cities. When Beijing began its massive restoration, many of its people moved to units in large skyscrapers that dot the city.
- 5). Learn how to understand “Xiangsheng,” or crosstalk, like a Beijinger. It is a form of ventriloquism that is used to mock or imitate another's dialogue, and to tell jokes. Cut your teeth by attending a Xiangsheng performance at Tian Qiao Theater where Guo Degang, famous for Xiangsheng throughout the country, frequently performs with his students.
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