How to Find the Best of Beijing?

Beijing is one of the most visited cities in the world. It is filled with captivating history and vibrant culture surrounding it. From seeing the famous landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China to indulging in local cuisine and exploring the lively marketplaces and beautiful gardens, Beijing has it all.

When it comes to planning a trip to Beijing, it is important to make sure you are getting the most out of your experience. As the capital and the cultural, political, and educational center of China, Beijing offers visitors an array of attractions and activities to enjoy. Knowing what the top attractions in Beijing are and how to find the best of Beijing can make a huge difference in your overall experience.

A Look Into Beijing’s Historical Landmarks

One of the must-sees when in Beijing is the Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace. It’s considered a world-famous landmark as it is home to some of the most well-preserved architecture in China. This complex is composed of 980 buildings and was Commissioned by Emperor Yongle in 1406. Throughout its 600-year history, it served as home to emperors over two dynasties and the final imperial palace used before the Republic of China took over.

Other popular historical landmarks include the Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven and Hutongs – alleys formed by lines of traditional Chinese courtyard residences. The Summer Palace was once an imperial garden and retreat where China’s emperors of the Qing dynasty came to escape the heat of the city and relax. The Temple of Heaven was also once used by emperors more than 500 years ago to pray for good harvests. Hutongs are a combination of old neighborhoods and modern retail districts that are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Religious Sites in Beijing

Beijing has a diverse array of temples throughout its many neighborhoods which guests can explore. One of the most famous temples is the Lama Temple, a Tibetan Buddhist temple originally built in 1694. It is one of the largest ones that can be found in Beijing and is known for its inscription “Glorious Religion of Trek Trips” above its entrance gate. Another famous site is the White Cloud Temple – Beijing’s oldest Taoist temple which was built during Tang Dynasty in 739 A.D. This temple is a must for visitors looking for a unique experience as it is considered a living example of ancient Taoist culture.

30 Must-See Places in Beijing You Shouldn’t Miss

From food markets to parks and lake sights, there is no shortage of places to visit and explore in Beijing. To help narrow down your list, here are 30 must-see places in Beijing you shouldn’t miss:

• Forbidden City
• Temple of Heaven
• Summer Palace
• Beijing Hutongs
• Tiananmen Square
• Lama Temple
• White Cloud Temple
• Beijing Zoo
• Guanting Lake
• West Lake Park
• Badaling Great Wall
• Tianjin Eye Ferris Wheel
• Hong Luo Temple
• Ming Tombs
• Dong Yue Temple
• Olympic Green
• Yuan Ming Yuan Ruins
• Forbidden City History Hall
• Enmarche Ecology Park of China National Petroleum Corporation
• Wutaishan Park
• University of International Business and Economics Great Wall Adventure Wall
• 798 Art Zone
• Beihai Park
• Miaofeng Mountain Temple
• Fragrant Hill Park
• Prince Gong’s Mansion
• Beihai Silver Beach
• Jingshan Park or “Coal Hill Park”
• Houhai Bar Street

Visiting so many different places can easily be overwhelming for first time visitors, so organizing each activity during your trip is crucial for a well-planned journey. It’s also a great idea to utilize online resources such as tour guides and websites to ensure that you make the right decisions when it comes to attractions and other details on your itinerary.

Ultimately, whether you are looking to explore historic monuments, enjoy culinary experiences or simply get acquainted with Beijing’s culture, planning ahead and making informed decisions can go a long way towards ensuring that you truly make the most out of your visit to one of the world’s most captivating cities filled with sightseeing opportunities – Beijing!

The Insider’s Guide to Beijing: Uncovering Hidden Gems of the City

As one of the most historically significant and culturally rich cities in the world, Beijing offers an unforgettable experience to anyone who steps onto its soil. The city has a wealth of famous attractions that have drawn people from around the world for centuries. But beyond the well-known tourist spots, Beijing has an endless array of hidden gems waiting for the intrepid traveler. This insider’s guide aims to provide a unique perspective and help you discover the best attractions, dining, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Beijing.

Local Attractions

To start discovering Beijing’s hidden gems, you need to explore beyond the typical tourist sites. One offbeat gem is the Bell and Drum towers. These two towers served as timekeepers for the city in ancient times. The Bell Tower housed the city bell that tolled at dawn, while the Drum Tower had a set of giant drums that sounded at dusk. Today, these towers offer visitors an insight into Beijing’s past. The bells and drums still exist, and you can witness their unique sound by attending a drum performance. Fortunately, the Bell and Drum towers remain less crowded than other attractions, which is a bonus.

Another hidden gem is a walk around the city’s traditional hutongs, which are narrow alleys lined with courtyard houses that epitomize the traditional architecture of old Beijing. While many of these areas have already been gentrified, some places still retain the authentic charm of the city. Take a stroll through the alleys and sample local foods, shop at antique stores, and visit small art galleries.

Dining Spots

When it comes to Beijing’s dining scene, it is impossible to avoid mention of Peking roast duck, the city’s culinary icon. You can find it in nearly every restaurant, but the quest for the best one is part of the fun. One lesser-known place to try Peking roast duck is the Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant. The chef here has reinterpreted the old traditional flavor combination and created a modern, healthier version. The ducks are roasted until the skin is crispy and free of fat, and the meat comes with homemade sauces and toppings like garlic paste, crispy soybeans, and cucumber slices.

Another hidden spot is a venerable egg tart shop called Dao Xiang Cun, which introduced Chinese-style egg tarts to Beijing over a century ago. This bakery is a must-visit for those who have a sweet tooth. The egg tarts come in various flavours, with flaky crusts that crumble in your mouth.

Cultural Experiences

Beijing has a rich cultural landscape. If you have time, visit the National Centre for the Performing Arts (the egg-shaped building) and catch a Chinese Opera performance. The traditional art form will transport you back centuries into China’s history, highlighting the beauty of the music, costumes, and drama.

Another unique experience is visiting a traditional Chinese tea house. One known as Lao She Teahouse is acknowledged for its Chinese-Western fusion. The tea house features not only Chinese tea culture but also showcases traditional Beijing art and cultural performances, like suona horn and opera. You can sip on a hot cup of tea while relaxing in the teahouse’s peaceful, serene environment.

Local History

Beijing has a rich history, and one of the interesting stories revolves around the Temple of Heaven, a complex of religious buildings from the Ming and Qing periods. The emperors used the temple specifically for conducting annual ceremonies where they begged Heaven for good harvests. The temple’s Hall of Prayer, which dates back over 600 years, has a fascinating design and is considered one of the architectural wonders of the world. While the temple is not necessarily a “hidden spot,” learning the lore behind its existence makes it all the more captivating.

Another fascinating historical site is the Beijing Ancient Observatory. The observatory was designed to observe astronomical events, and it is one of the oldest observatories in the world. The structure consists of some of the original Chinese astronomical instruments, some dating back to the Ming dynasty.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To experience the tranquil and peaceful side of Beijing, you can visit the Baiyun Guan monastery, just beyond the city’s boundaries. This temple is renowned for its Taoist teachings and the famous Taoist priest Ge Hong. The temple sits at the base of a mountain range and is surrounded by miles of scenic beauty. You can explore the temple grounds on foot, accompanied by a guide who will bring the history and culture of the monks to life.

Another unique destination that is not on the typical tourist trail is the Beijing Wildlife Park, which is home to over 10,000 animals, including giant pandas, rare white tigers, and an array of bird species. Visitors can drive through the park and get up close and personal with the animals, feeding them from their car.

Beijing is a city that continues to evolve while still preserving its historical and cultural significance. An eternal city with enigmatic allure, Beijing invites you to venture beyond the beaten path and discover its many hidden treasures. This Insider’s Guide provides you with a unique and innovative perspective to experience more of the city’s true charm.