One of the largest cities in north China is Beijing, the capital and one of the oldest cities, with the most magnificent places of interest, such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, among many others. The focus of this article is to provide visitors with the rationale as to why it is worth visiting Beijing. From the beginning, the article will help you plan and organize your trip, whether walking around the ancient capitals, busy local centers or simply trying delicious food. If you have never been there and are planning your first trip, or have been there several times or live there, this article will remind you where to go and, more importantly, what to see and how to work your way around this jam-packed city.
What are the must-visit attractions in Beijing?
What is the best way to visit the Forbidden City?
Tickets to the Forbidden City are limited, so I suggest booking your tickets online before your visit. It is advisable to arrive early to move quickly through the crowds at hand, and this is only to visit as much of the architecture, courtyards, and artifacts as possible. At least half a day should be devoted to the undertaking. The starting point of your visit will be the Meridian Gate; hence, try to follow the approved linear movement across the given space as much as possible, and this will entail movement to the Hall of Supreme Harmony and ending at the Imperial Garden. Furthermore, listening through an audio guide an even locating and hiring a local tour guide will provide you a better perspective of the activities and events that made the palace what it is today.
How can one best experience the Great Wall of China?
I’ve been to the Great Wall several times, and I would say the best way to access the lesser genuine sections is to preserve sections such as the Mutianyu or Jinshanling. These, however, depend on one’s preferences, such as more crowd or accessibility. Getting there in the morning helps to avoid long queues, and as some sections are rather steep and uneven, I recommend proper walking sneakers. If a more immersive experience is what you seek out, venturing out on an unsectional like Jiankou would present captivating sights and a sense of freedom and adventure. A guided tour can be more informative and perhaps enjoyable, but self-guided tours allow you to see things in more detail at your own pace.
Should one visit the Temple of Heaven?
I think the answer is yes. Everyone should visit the Temple of Heaven as it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and culture. Its design’s straightforward circular and rectangular shapes are an ancient Chinese meta-architecture model where heaven’s got the circle and earth’s got the square. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests has no joints and is known for its precision in engineering, structural elements, and even architectural features. It is made entirely of wood, and nails are not used in any part.
The use of spatial layout according to the principles of feng shui, the temple’s construction is dated to the reign of the Qing dynasty in 1420, and the Echo Wall with its exact and calculated acoustic effects. Furthermore, the park, with an area of 267 hectares, is ideal for watching Tai Chi exercises and singing groups, which are part of the Chinese culture. The early Raise to the Cloud Temple is better as it allows you to see their activities as a part of the cultural learning.
Where are the best places to eat in Beijing?
Where can I find a Peking duck that’s worth the money?
For Peking Duck lovers, the perfect destination is the Quanjude, a restaurant chain with unique methods for roasting duck. They also have a very strong history. Apart from that, Da Dong specializes in ducks, although their ducks are more of a fusion of older and newer techniques. Siji Minfu will likely please you with great, attentive service and a delicious duck for those who want a more luxurious atmosphere.
What street food should I try in Beijing?
When discussing exploring Beijing, I think it’s a good idea to grab a jianbing and have it in your pocket as a snack until you want to eat it. Jianbing, which starts off as a plain Chinese pancake, gets upgraded with egg and wontons. Also, don’t forget to eat tanghulu, It is basically dipped in sugar giving you an amazing flavor combination. And last but not least, chuan’r, the skewered meat hot off the grill, is simply mouth-watering. Those asking you for street food should go with the mentioned dishes first.
What are some of the more popular tea houses in Beijing?
Indeed. China has several different famous traditions, such as Kung Fu and Silk, and the same could be said about tea as there are several tea houses in Beijing, such as Lao She Teahouse, which is named after a Chinese writer whose specific tea house offers their customers traditional teas whilst performing cultural acts. Wuyutai’s Tea House greatly resembles LLao She’s café in terms of its history and the long-standing quality of its Meijie and Jasmine teas. Finally, there is the Minghui tea house, located at the Imperial Ancestor Temple and has a peaceful and quiet environment where you can have tea. Truly, these tea homes encompass everything there is to know about Beijing’s history, tea, and, most importantly, culture.
How can I experience Beijing’s local culture?
What is the purpose of hutongs, and why must I visit them?
Hutongs, rustic small spaces of hooked homes also known as straits, possessed major historical and cultural significance for Beijing. Using them I can access some small house masses and their ways of life that have been cultured over the past many years. Hutongs like Nanluoguxiang or those adjacent to the Drum and Bell Towers are great places to experience firsthand the original native style, taste some local delicacies, and observe how the people bustling in that neighborhood live and interact.
What about the 798 Art District makes it worthwhile to explore?
Remnants of a pre-industrial era depict the 798 Art District as an artistic enclave promising innovation and worth the quest within former industrial complexes. The depilated remains of a Bauhaus factory have been converted into galleries, production rooms, and various cultural precincts. The architecture of the region, characterized by large glass paned windows and high ceilings with deep spaces, provides adequate ambiance for the modern artworks it accommodates. The artworks depicted in this place are from national and foreign practitioners, thus giving the audience a broad outlook on art. The surroundings are filled with art cafes, bookstores, and designer enterprises. As such, this area has become a cultural place full of life and activity. Such a combination of history, design, and modernity certainly earns the district its growing fame of an attractive location in Beijing.
What other souvenir locations do the Beijing dwellers recommend?
To acquire the finest offers in Beijing souvenirs, I would recommend Panjiayuan Antique Market for those searching for souvenirs, including antiques, ceramics, and calligraphy. For gifting or self-affirming, stroll along Nanluoguxiang for jaw-dropping souvenirs, which are unique and custom-made from wholistic boutiques. For all things, silk is a great place to be, along with other goods that encompass the culture of China, and the silk market serves this best.
What are some unusual things to do in Beijing?
Is it worth it to go to the Lama Temple?
Yes, it is surely worth going to the Lama temple. Having been the most important and best-preserved Tibetan Buddhist Temple in China, the thoughts behind its construction are noticeable. The temple is especially known for the tiny details in the sculptures, the rich colors, and the 26 meter tall Maitreya Buddha sculpted from a single sandalwood trunk. The peaceful ambiance and the historical relevance must make it one of the coordinate places to visit in Beijing.
Can one visit the mausoleum of Mao Zedong?
Yes, you might be able to access the mausoleum of Mao Zedong, which is situated in Tiananmen Square. The mausoleum is accessible to the public at specified timings, generally at specific morning hours, and there is no admission fee. Do not expect to take photographs or bring in bags or large items, as cameras and such are prohibited, and many also wear face masks. This is a great chance to see Mao Zedong’s body, which was preserved, except that since there is always a stream of people, the experience might not last long enough for many.
What makes Beihai Park stand out?
Beihai Park stands out as one of China’s largest and most ancient imperial gardens. It is remarkable and well-preserved as it reflects a century of rich history. I admire its fabulous mix of traditional Chinese buildings, beautiful green areas, and cultural sites, such as the White Dagoba in the center of the park and the Nine-Dragon Screen in front of it. The quiet Beihai Lake, which constitutes more than half of the area, offers the advantage of boating and a place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai. It is an enchanting place where the beauty of nature and history coexist.
How should I plan my trip to Beijing?
What is the ideal period for a trip to Beijing?
Beijing, in the spring (from March to May) and autumn (from September to November) months. These seasons have pleasant temperatures, good weather conditions, and clear skies which allow one to visit Beihai Park, the Great Wall and outdoor activities with ease. Spring features flowers, while fall has its share of beautiful orange leaves. This is also a wonderful way to avoid the unbearable summers and the chilly winters.
What is required to travel on the Beijing subway?
Determining and reaching a destination inside Beijing through the subway is straightforward, fast, and inexpensive. First, I have to buy a ticket for the trip or a Beijing Transportation Smartcard (Yikatong) which can be recharged and used in several transport systems within the city. Every subway station has ticket-selling machines and ticket offices enabling the purchase of tickets for the trip. Since the base fare begins from 3RMB in this case, the cost might scale up to around 9RMB or above, depending on the distance covered.
The system operates from around 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM, but specific transport opening and closing hours can differ from one area to another so it is important to check the timetable of my chosen line in advance. Moreover, it is worth noting that there are more than 24 lines and 400 stations, and thus, it helps to learn how the subway works, especially the map, which can be easily found in stations or on the internet. Most of the announcements on stations, instructions and signs are in two languages at least (Chinese and English) so that makes it easy to get around for those who don’t speak Chinese.
As I enter the station, I must clear the automated turnstiles by providing my ticket or my relevant smart card and cross the handbag check. Once I finish this, I can look at the proper directional boards that point towards the right platforms for the respective trains and board the required subway. It is worth noting that most of the services are usually packed between 7 00 am to 9 00 am and from around 5 00 pm to 7 00 pm, therefore if possible, travel at other times to have a far better experience.
What must I know before traveling to Beijing for the first time?
Beijing is a city combining history with modernity, so there are a few things I can do before boarding the plane. First of all, I found it useful to learn a few phrases in Mandarin language, especially for when interacting with locals in markets or getting a cab. Being a city with severe climate changes, I should pack clothing suitable for the season I am traveling in – there is extreme cold and dryness during winters. At the same time, summers are characterized by extreme heat in conjunction with high humidity. Travel tips would also include carrying cash or using mobile payment applications like WeChat Pay, which is commonly used in China. It is also important to be familiar with their culture, such as not leaving tips in restaurants or showing a business card, which can avoid miscommunication. Lastly, I can integrate the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven with a plan to walk through Beijing’s hutongs, which would help me get to know the core of the history and culture of Beijing.
What are the best day trips from Beijing?
Should you visit the Summer Palace?
Absolutely there is no question whether the Summer Palace deserves a visit. UNESCO has recognized the Summer Palace as the most coherent representation of Chinese gardens and guarantees breathtaking landscapes and history. The large area comprises the famous Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill and numerous intricate pavilions, temples, and bridges. Ashore is a great way to get away from the busy city and, at the same time, enhance your understanding of the vast sea of ancient Chinese history, which never fails to amaze not only with the wealth of the past but also with stunning views and an atmosphere of tranquility. Be ready to spare half a day to get its full charm.
What can be located around Beijing?
I may add that the Great Wall of China, for many sections, such as Mutianyu and Badaling, combines spectacular views and well-maintained architecture. I could visit the ancient city of Shijiazhuang’s Zhengding County for temples or the Fragrant Hills Park during autumn for its beauty. This is great as I can easily plan my day trips to these places from Beijing. Apart from these sites, I may enjoy the Great Wall of China, for there are numerous sites that tell the story of China’s great history and its beauty, which I find fascinating.
Are there quiet sections of the Great Wall around Beijing?
For instance, while Mutianyu is beautiful, it becomes crowded, making it difficult to appreciate its beauty with so many people around. A more unique, lesser-known section is Jiankou which visits most tourists manages to retain its authenticity. Parts of Simatai can also be visited at night; therefore, if you want less crowd, it is also a great option. Another spectacular section is Gubeikou which is in the outskirts therefore making it less crowded, providing the beauty of nature in its untouched form.
Reference sources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the best things to do and see in Beijing?
A: Beijing offers a wealth of attractions and experiences. Some of the best include visiting the iconic Forbidden City, walking along the Great Wall of China, exploring the Temple of Heaven, strolling through Tiananmen Square, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the hutongs. Don’t miss the Summer Palace, the National Museum of China, and the 798 Art District for a mix of history, culture, and modern art.
Q: How can I experience the best of Beijing’s hutongs?
A: To truly experience the heart of Beijing, explore the hutongs – narrow alleyways lined with traditional courtyard homes. Take a guided walking tour or rent a bicycle to navigate these historic neighborhoods. Visit Nanluoguxiang hutong for a mix of old and new, with trendy cafes and shops. For a more authentic experience, try Beixinqiao or Dashilar hutongs. Don’t forget to try local street food and interact with residents to get a feel for daily life in Beijing.
Q: What are the must-visit sights for the best Peking experience?
A: For the ultimate Peking (Beijing) experience, visit the Forbidden City, home to Ming and Qing dynasty emperors. Explore Tiananmen Square and the nearby Great Hall of the People. The Temple of Heaven and its surrounding park offer insight into imperial rituals. To taste local life, wander through the hutongs and visit the bustling Wangfujing shopping street. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous Peking Opera or indulge in a traditional Peking duck dinner.
Q: What are some unique things to do at night in Beijing?
A: Beijing comes alive at night with many exciting activities. Watch a spectacular kung fu show at the Red Theatre or enjoy a Peking Opera performance. Explore the vibrant Sanlitun area for its nightlife and international cuisine. Enjoy an illuminated Forbidden City evening tour or a night market experience at Donghuamen or Wangfujing Night Market. For a peaceful evening, consider a night cruise on Houhai Lake or a stroll through the Olympic Park to see the illuminated Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.
Q: What are Beijing’s most famous tourist attractions?
A: Beijing’s most famous tourist attractions include the Great Wall of China, particularly the Mutianyu and Badaling sections. The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage site. Other popular attractions include Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, and the Lama Temple. For art enthusiasts, the 798 Art District showcases contemporary Chinese art. The National Museum of China comprehensively looks at Chinese history and culture.
Q: How can I best explore Beijing’s historical sites?
A: To explore Beijing’s rich history, start with the Forbidden City, the largest palace complex in the world. Visit the nearby Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the city. The Temple of Heaven complex showcases ancient Chinese architecture and rituals. Explore the Summer Palace, an imperial garden from the Qing Dynasty. Don’t miss the Lama Temple, Beijing’s most renowned Tibetan Buddhist temple. For a deeper understanding, consider hiring a knowledgeable guide or using audio guides available at most sites.
Q: What are some off-the-beaten-path things to do in Beijing?
A: For a unique Beijing experience, visit the Underground City, a vast tunnel system built during the Cold War. Explore the Confucius Temple and Imperial College to glimpse ancient Chinese education. Take a trip to the Marco Polo Bridge, an ancient stone bridge with a rich history. Visit the ruins of the Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) for a poignant look at Chinese history. For nature lovers, hike in the nearby Fragrant Hills Park or visit the Beijing Botanical Garden. Don’t forget to try to haggle in one of Beijing’s many markets for an authentic local experience.
