My Jiangsu Rant: The Absolute WORST Spot. Seriously, WTF.
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Sure, no problem! Leave it to me to explain the "love-hate tale" of this music platform (music terrace) to your foreign friends, letting them appreciate the beautiful views while skillfully avoiding potential pitfalls!
Hello, hello, let me tell you about Nanjing’s charming Music Terrace!
- To be honest, the Music Terrace itself is a fantastic place, green like a large park, and designed quite uniquely. Originally, it was supposed to be an enjoyable leisure area for taking pictures with pigeons.
- However, its true downside lies among some "business people" there, ruining the space slightly with commercial activities.
- Those so-called "commercial photographers" (who specifically solicit tourists on-site to take pictures for profit) can make anyone laugh.
- Picture this: after braving intense sunlight and walking quite a distance (Friendly reminder: indeed, the route from the entrance to the core Music Terrace is long; make sure to wear comfortable shoes!), you intended just to relax a bit and breathe on those steps.
- Reality, however? Within only half an hour, as many as ten to twenty people would bombard you with offers like, "Hey good-looking! Want your photo taken?"
- Even if you’re tired and don't want to respond, these individuals wouldn’t show up empty-handed; they’d simply stay persistently beside you, relentlessly asking away, driving you to almost want to perform an impromptu B-Box act just to shoo them off!
- So, you think to yourself: I’ve come all this way; surely, I have the right to take a couple of pictures as a keepsake using my own smartphone?
- Hey! Those “commercial photographers” would then pounce over and say: "Oh no! Please move! I’m taking a customer’s picture here!"
- I was left utterly dumbstruck at the moment. I thought to myself: Isn’t it me who has already paid to enter by purchasing a ticket? Why should I make way?
Therefore, while the Music Terrace is recommended to explore, given its stunning scenery, I must warn you about those photographers!
️ Important reminder! Practical avoidance tips for foreign friends:- What is “commercial photography”?
- Many popular tourist spots in China, which include our Music Terrace, have numerous professionals with cameras actively soliciting visitors for fee-based photo-taking services. These commercial photographers will capture 'tourist shots' that can be printed out or transferred to digital versions — all of which entails fees.
- How to deal with these “enthusiastic” photographers?
- Just say no if you’re not interested: If you find their services unappealing, you can outright express your refusal firmly, saying, “No thanks!” (Bú yòng le, xièxie!) or simply waving your hand. Usually, they’d start looking for another participant.
- Don’t feel awkward: They approach hundreds of people each day anyway, so your refusal won’t embarrass them.
- Regarding being asked to 'move':
- It’s your right to take your photos: You’ve entered on your tourist rights too, hence you have the liberty of snapping, provided that you don’t disturb others.
- Handling the conflict: When faced with such scenarios, graciously let them know what your intention is; if they’re insistent in the slightest, politely shift slightly or wait until after their session to sidestep inconvenience. Generally, public spaces entail rights shared among all.
- Other small tips:
- Feeding pigeons is one signature activity at the Music Terrace, but please ensure not to disturb the flock by respecting their space.
- Remember sun protection during summer months above all.
- Study map in advance, plan walking route well, as the scenic area is indeed expansive.
In summary, the Music Terrace is certainly somewhere worth visiting, but always keep these “commercial photography” realities in mind while preparing effective responses to ensure it doesn’t spoil the fun!
#'Jiangsu' 'Nanjing' 'Music Terrace' 'Travel' 'Holiday' 'Tourism Guide in Jiangsu' 'Things to Avoid' 'Tourist Tips'Tag: 'Travel Tips'