How Big is Beijing?

As the capital of China and home to almost 22 million people, Beijing is one of the most populous cities in the world. It has an area of 16,808 km² (6,487 sq mi), making it the fourth-largest city in terms of area after Shanghai, Wuhan, and Guangzhou. To put this vast expanse in perspective, that is nearly twice the size of the state of Delaware.

Beijing is divided into 14 urban and suburban districts and two rural counties. These districts are further subdivided into 265 subdistricts, 836 towns, 659 townships, and 42 ethnic townships. All told, the area of Beijing spans across 35 municipalities and counties.

Beijing’s cityscape is filled with ancient monuments and modern skyscrapers, sprawling parks, and green spaces. The city also contains one UNESCO world heritage site and seven more listed as UNESCO heritage sites in its immediate vicinity. It is home to some of the country’s most important historic sites and monuments, from the iconic Forbidden City to the Great Wall of China.

Facts and Figures on Beijing

The following are some other facts on Beijing:

• Altitude: 27m
• Average temperatures: 18°C (64°F) in summer; -3°C (27°F) in winter
• Population: 21.7 million (2020)
• Municipal government: Municipality of Beijing
• Area: 16,808 km2 (6,487 sq mi)
• Urban area population density: 4,546 people per km2 (11,904 people per sq mi)
• Municipal GDP (PPP): US$1.086 trillion

The City of Beijing is composed of 14 districts and two counties. Downtown Beijing is divided into Dongcheng and Xicheng districts on the east side and Chaoyang and Haidian Districts on the west side. The western districts consist of several areas: Zhongguancun, also known as China’s Silicon Valley, Sanlitun and Guomao, which are home to shopping malls and high-ceiling office buildings; Wudaokou and Liuxian, which are student districts close to some of China’s top universities; the embassy district, which hosts the embassies of many foreign countries; and Wangfujing, home to a range of luxury stores, upscale malls, and traditional food from all over China. In addition to these bustling districts, the City of Beijing includes Fangshan district in the south, Tongzhou district in the east and Shunyi district in the northeast. On the outskirts of Beijing, seven suburban counties make up the remaining area: Mentougou, Changping, Daxing, Shijingshan, Huairou, Pinggu and Yanqing.

Conclusion

Beijing, with its immense size and bustling population, has been an important center of politics and culture throughout Chinese history. The City’s tremendous growth since 1949 has brought it closer to other international cities in terms of size and infrastructure. As the political and cultural capital of China, Beijing has numerous historical sites and monuments that attract tourists from all over the world. For anyone planning to visit China or moving there for work or study, it is important to be aware of the size and structure of the city in order to make full use of its many attractions.

Wikipedia provides more information about the city’s history and attractions in detail.

Insider’s Guide to Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China, a city rich in history and culture. With a population exceeding 21 million people, it is one of the largest cities in the world. Beijing has so much to offer, from ancient temples and palaces to modern skyscrapers and shopping centers. As a tourist, you will be amazed by all that the city has to offer. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Beijing, with recommendations on where to eat, what to see, and where to go beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Top Attractions

There are many notable landmarks and tourist attractions worth visiting in Beijing. Start with the city’s most famous sites, like the Great Wall of China, as well as Tiananmen Square, which played a significant role in Chinese history. But beyond these well-known sites, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Beijing. One such place is the Summer Palace, a historic complex of temples, gardens, and lakes, located just outside of the city center. A day trip to the Ming Tombs and the Sacred Way is also a great way to explore Beijing’s rich history.

Dining Spots

Beijing is famous for its cuisine, with many delicious dishes and must-try restaurants. The city is home to some of the best street food in the world, such as jianbing, a savory crepe served with cabbage and chili sauce, and roujiamo, a type of meat sandwich served with crispy bread. For a more formal dining experience, the Quanjude Roast Duck restaurant is a must-visit, with its crispy-skinned duck and a range of other Chinese delicacies. Wangfujing Snack Street is a great place to sample a variety of different snacks, both sweet and savory.

Cultural Experiences

Beijing is a hub of cultural experiences, from traditional performances to modern art exhibitions. The city is home to several world-class museums, including the National Museum of China, the Palace Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. If you’re interested in Chinese opera, then the Liyuan Theater is the place to be, with daily performances featuring traditional Chinese music and dance. For a more hands-on experience, participate in a calligraphy class or a tea ceremony to learn more about the Chinese way of life.

Local History

Beijing has a long and fascinating history that can be explored through its numerous historic sites and landmarks. The Forbidden City, a sprawling complex of 980 buildings where Chinese emperors once lived, is a must-visit for history buffs. The Temple of Heaven, a series of religious buildings used for imperial ceremonies, is also a must-see, while the Beijing Ancient Observatory is a great place to learn about astronomical history. Be sure to also stroll through the hutong alleys, a traditional neighborhood with narrow lanes and courtyard houses.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Escape the crowds and explore some of Beijing’s hidden gems. The Fragrant Hills Park is a picturesque and peaceful park that provides a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, head to Panjiayuan Market, a massive open-air market selling antiques, art, and crafts from all over China. For thrill-seekers, take a hike to Jiankou Great Wall, a section of the wall known for its steep and rugged terrain, and unparalleled views of the surrounding scenery.

Overall, Beijing is a city full of adventure and exploration, with so much to see and do. Whether you plan on visiting the city’s most iconic landmarks or discovering its hidden gems, this insider’s guide will help you make the most of your time in Beijing.