Today the smog in Beijing was so thick we could taste it, so we wore masks. All the cars are covered in a layer of golden brown dust.

We went to the Ming tombs this morning, via the Jade factory, a state-run outlet which tourists are obliged to visit. It was fascinating to see jade generation balls being hand carved and learn a little about the different types of jade.

At the tombs, 40 Km north of the city, the smog was still thick. There are 13 tombs spread over a 15 square mile valley. We went to the Chang Ling tomb where we saw the beautifully preserved Hall of Eminent Favour with its 13m high cedar columns. This is now a museum. The burial chambers are 27ft under ground, multi-chambered but only one has been excavated and they're not open to the public.

After lunch in another jade factory we drove on through the mountains to the Great Wall at Badaling but the Conisbee weather tradition held true and there was smog/fog/drizzle! No spectacular views, but we walked on the wall, very steep and comical watching people going down.

Off to Xian tomorrow, hopefully we will breathe easier there.