The Drive, Part 2

As we leave the villages, we begin to see what seems to be an endless stretch of new construction.  Now that the "fast train" is running, developers are hoping more people will move from Chang Chun to enjoy the quiet, peaceful country life in JiLin (we only have six million or so residents).  The fast train makes all this possible with only an hour's commute.

Of course, all this construction makes for a very dusty, dirty road, so they send out the street cleaners in full force to keep the roads clear.

Yes, this really is how they clean the roads- we whiz by at 80 kmph, and little old men (and ladies) sweep the roads with their hand-made twig brooms, sometimes with only inches to spare.  They don't even flinch.

Since we are out in the country, we frequently see produce and animals being taken to the markets- this was one HUGE hog!

JiLin really is a very beautiful city.  As you drive past the riverfront, there are many different gardens, monuments and sculptures to see.  In the background, you can also make out some of the floats for the river parade that has been lit up every evening.  I believe the parade was originally to commemorate the 90th anniversary of Communism in China.

 

Here we are! This is Tian Jian Jia- a huge indoor shopping center, similar to a flea market.  There are also many, many small shops lining the street.

 

As we leave, we must dodge random pedestrians, 3-wheel taxis and buses.  Having people cross major roads wherever they wish has been an adjustment for us- it's kind of like a giant game of Frogger!  I've come to the conclusion that the main traffic law is: do whatever you want, just honk first!

Here it is, the place we've all been waiting for, Walmart!  Seriously, folks, for 10 years, they've been saying it will open soon.  Word on the street is that it will open just before Christmas this year.  Don't hold your breath.

Want more proof that China traffic is crazy?  Here you go . . . this is a round-about.  Everyone drives round-about wherever they want.

And just in case you need one last proof- we have dedicated u-turn lanes- because they know you missed your turn.  Again.

This concludes our drive into JiLin, I hope you enjoyed it!  I will try to get pictures of the kids up soon.