While the sounds of bells pealing are truly harmonious, the sound of 18 peeling bells takes it to the next level as those who have heard the Swan Bells will testify! These fascinating bells can be found in Perth, Australia and travellers in search of Perth apartment accommodation in the city centre itself can choose Somerset St Georges Terrace Perth. These Perth apartments short stay provide easy access to the business district making them an ideal choice for both business and pleasure. As you plan a sightseeing tour of the city make sure to visit the Swan Bells which is also known as the Swan Bell Tower which features 18 bells housed in a striking structure made from glass and copper. 12 of these bells are actually from London’s St Martin-in-the-Fields church and add a bit of history to the sound that resonates through the area as the chimes begin. Overlooking the Swan River, this attraction is set amidst the charming Barrack Square where one will find walking paths, reflection pools and cafes that offer the perfect setting in which to enjoy the Swan Bells!
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Tomb Sweeping Day – A day to commemorate the dead
This rather curious festival Tomb Sweeping Day is a traditional Chinese festival held on the 104th day after the winter solstice. Better known as the Qingming Festival among the natives, it is commonly known by the names Pure Brightness Festival, Clear Bright Festival because of the bright and clear weather that prevails during the period. Also known as the Ancestors Day, this is the day that one commemorates and pays respect to one’s ancestors, taking time off from their busy schedules to visit ancestral gravesites to pay homage to their dear departed.
This fascinating festival well worth a probe falls on the first day of the fifth solar term (usually on the 4th or the 5th of April depending on the lunar calendar) known as Qingming from which it derives its name. Started off originally as the Cold Food festival, the festival took on the form of the Tomb Sweeping Day in the Tang Dynasty when the emperor would present fire to the officials. The emperor would start a fire from which he would light branches and hand them to his officials. By the time they get home the fires will be extinguished and they would put down the branches on the front of their doorsteps. However in the Song Dynasty, candles were used as an alternative to the branches.
This is the time for visiting cemeteries and paying their respect to the dead. During this time, one can see hoards of people kneeling before their ancestors’ tombs, praying, offering flowers, food and lighting joss sticks. They also sweep and clean the tombs and some are even seen carrying willow branches or hanging them on their doors and windows on Qingming Day as they believe that willow branches ward off evil spirits. Another delightful sight witnessed on this day is the multicoloured kites that adorn the skies which take shape of various animals or characters from Chinese Opera Plays. This is a day for families to get together and go on a well earned holiday, enjoying quality time together, taking walks in the countryside, planting willows and just simply indulging in life itself.
While on this journey of discovery, the visitors may also want to burrow into the luxuries and the unique experience that only a Beijing hotel can offer. Raffles Beijing Hotel is a popular hotel in Beijing that is known to offer its guests with the authentic cultural experience that every ardent culture enthusiast craves for on their travels.
Prince Gong Mansion a different experience.
Beijing Accommodation is never a problem for visitors who come to this amazing and busy city. Ascott Beijing is one of the Luxury Apartment in Beijing that provides classy services and modern accommodation facilities to all who reside in the apartments. While doing some sightseeing in Beijing don’t forget to visit the Prince Gong Mansion a museum located in the western part of central Beijing.
Constructed in 1777 this museum is Beijing’s largest and the best preserved Qing Dynasty princely mansion. The fine Chinese architecture can be seen in every inch of the building and displays the life style of the privileged classes in the time long ago. The beautiful gardens of the mansion makes the visitors want to linger more. Spend the day in this museum and experience the beauty and luxuriousness of ancient China.