Beijing's reputation as the world's most notorious smog-wreathed capital is well deserved. But what few non-residents realize is that the city, thanks to a naturally arid climate and blustery winds from the north, is also home to some spectacular azure days.

After a week of exceptional rains, big skies and big clouds opened up on Friday over Beijing, with temperatures hovering in the 70s. Jealous much?  

— CityLab (@CityLab) June 11, 2015

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