What are the Best Places to Visit during a Visit to Beijing?

Beijing, the capital of China and the nation’s political center, is a fascinating metropolis. The city is a blend of ancient and modern, having structures from the imperial past still standing next to sleek skyscrapers. With its wealth of cultural sites, parks, and natural wonders, there’s plenty to do in Beijing. From the iconic Forbidden City and world-renown Great Wall to oases of tranquility like Beihai Park and the Summer Palace, Beijing offers something for everyone. Here is an overview of the best places to visit during a tour to Beijing.

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a vast complex of ancient palaces in central Beijing. It was once the imperial palace of China’s last dynasty, the Qing dynasty, from 1644 to 1912. The Forbidden City is an awe-inspiring sight, both in its physical presence and in its historical significance. Its substantial courtyards and palaces are located at the heart of the city. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Beijing. Visitors can take an audio tour guided by locals or explore the complex themselves, immersing themselves in a thousand years of history.

Beihai Park

Originally built in the 11th century as an imperial garden, Beihai Park is still retaining its original charm. Located in the northwest region of Beijing, this park is increasingly popular with locals and tourists alike thanks to its well-maintained gardens and zen-like atmosphere. Here visitors can witness traditional Chinese architecture and stroll along its shores with stunning views of White Pagoda Hill where the White Dagoba Temple is located. For centuries visitors have made their way here for grand religious ceremonies, performances, and pagoda dedication rituals. From morning until evening visitors can experience an unique insight into traditional Chinese culture.

Great Wall of China at Mutianyu

One of the most awe-inspiring man-made structures in history and the most iconic symbol of China is right here in Beijing: The Great Wall of China. Built to defend China against invaders, The Great Wall’s 2,600-km (1,600 miles) length stretches across inner Mongolia and links various fortified towers and bulwarks as it winds through mountains and valleys. Of all the sections of The Great Wall, Mutianyu is among the most accessible, located just outside the city limits. Here visitors can witness much of The Wall’s original construction along with some nice renovations over time. A cable car makes this section easily accessible, but hiking up is definitely a great physical challenge!

The Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is one of Beijing’s major attractions for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and all who wish to explore a historical location intertwined with nature. Built in 1750, this vast imperial palace was used as a summer home for China’s rulers until 1924. Its beautiful landscapes, gardens, galleries and pavilions scattered around Kunming Lake offer visitors an obscure glimpse into the lives of Chinese emperors. Additionally, visitors may even visit the palace theater or rent a boat on Kunming Lake if they wish to explore lake life at its finest.

The Temple of Heaven

Originally built in 1420 by Emperor Yongle during the Ming dynasty, The Temple of Heaven is one of Beijing’s primary sites for religious ceremonies. This impressive complex was made to honor Heaven and contains beautiful courtyards with rolling green fields and walls that stretch for miles. Visitors often come here to experience religious ceremonies performed by locals or shop around for traditional inside souvenior shops selling small religious trinkets. Outside of the temple business as usual reigns supreme as locals tend to come here for leisure activities like chess or kite flying – always a fun sight!

In conclusion, visiting Beijing provides many different experiences and opportunities to explore both historical and modern aspects of Chinese culture; As such there are many must-see attractions designed to accommodate all types of interests, ranging from natural and historical beauty found in The Summer Palace, Beihai Park and The Temple of Heaven to iconic marvels like The Forbidden City and Great Wall of China’s Mutianyu section. For more information on Beijing attractions you can visit Wikivoyage: Beijing, where you can find further details on all of these sites mentioned above and more about what travel to Beijing has to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Beijing: Unforgettable Experiences for Tourists

Beijing is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and sprawling metropolis that’s been fascinating visitors for centuries. From imperial palaces to traditional courtyard homes, bustling markets to quiet parks, Beijing is a city that will thrill every traveler. In this insider’s guide, we will provide unique insights into the city and introduce hidden gems that even locals might not know.

Local Attractions: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

While the Great Wall and the Forbidden City are must-see tourist attractions in Beijing, we’d like to suggest some hidden gems for those who want to really dive into the city’s culture and history:

– 798 Art Zone: A former factory district turned art district, 798 Art Zone has become a cultural hub in Beijing, housing some of the best art galleries and studios in the city. The contemporary art scene is thriving here, with exhibitions, performances, and installations that are pushing boundaries.

– Hutongs: These narrow alleys are a window into old Beijing. Take a stroll through the Hutongs to appreciate the traditional courtyard homes, quaint shops, and local restaurants that give a glimpse into Beijing’s past.

– Prince Gong’s Mansion: While the Forbidden City may be the most famous royal palace in Beijing, Prince Gong’s Mansion is a hidden gem that is often overlooked. The palace was the residence of Prince Gong, a powerful official during the Qing Dynasty, and his sprawling compound contains beautiful gardens, pavilions, and halls.

Dining Spots: Savoring Authentic Beijing Cuisine

Beijing’s cuisine has a unique flavor and history that sets it apart from other regional Chinese cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and dining spots:

– Peking Roast Duck: The quintessential Beijing dish is undoubtedly Peking roast duck. Some might say it’s a tourist trap, but the truth is that the crispy skin, tender meat, and hoisin sauce make for a truly delicious dining experience. Head to the famous Quanjude restaurant for the ultimate Peking duck feast.

– Jianbing: This savory crepe is a cheap, tasty, and filling snack popular with Beijing locals. Made with egg, scallions, sesame seeds, and various sauces, this snack can be found on almost every street corner.

– Sichuanese Restaurant: Beijing may not be known for its Sichuanese cuisine, but there are some outstanding restaurants that serve up spicy and flavorful dishes from this province. Try the hotpot at Haidilao Hotpot or the mapo tofu at South Beauty.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering Beijing’s Traditions

Beijing has a rich heritage and cultural tradition that’s been shaped by centuries of history. Here are some cultural experiences that will bring you closer to the city’s traditions:

– Temple of Heaven: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of Heaven was a sacred site where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties would come and pray for a bountiful harvest. The exquisite architecture, intricate carvings, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for any tourist.

– Beijing Opera: This traditional form of Chinese opera is a feast for the senses, with live orchestration, elaborate costumes, and acrobatic feats. Head to the Lao She Teahouse for an authentic Beijing opera experience.

– Beijing International Film Festival: If you happen to be in Beijing in April, don’t miss the film festival. With screenings of international and Chinese films and appearances by A-list celebrities, it’s an event not to be missed.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Beijing’s Past

Beijing has a long and storied past that is often overlooked by tourists. Here are some fascinating stories that will give you a deeper appreciation for the city’s history:

– Old Summer Palace: Known as Yuanmingyuan in Chinese, this once-splendid palace complex was destroyed during the Second Opium War. The ruins are a haunting symbol of China’s tumultuous history, and the guerilla warfare that occurred there is a testament to the struggle and resilience of the Chinese people.

– Beijing Olympics: In 2008, Beijing played host to the Olympic Games, which was a momentous occasion for China and the Chinese people. The opening ceremony alone was an extravaganza of Chinese culture and art, showcasing the country’s modernity and global presence.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Adventures

Want to do something different on your trip to Beijing? Here are some unconventional suggestions:

– Watch Acrobatics at Chaoyang Theatre: This theater has daily performances of acrobatic art from around the world, which will amaze you with their skill and grace. The show includes feats of strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination that will leave you breathless.

– Take a hike to Jiankou Great Wall: While the Great Wall is undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic sites, the crowds can be overwhelming. For a more tranquil and authentic experience, hike to the Jiankou section of the Great Wall. It’s a challenging and rewarding climb, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

– Explore the Gongti club district: Beijing’s nightlife scene is thriving, and the Gongti club district is the place to be. From slick lounges to underground clubs, Gongti has something for everyone.

In conclusion, Beijing is a city that has something for everyone. From the hidden gems to the authentic cuisine, cultural experiences, captivating stories from its past, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, this insider’s guide will help you discover the city like never before.