What is Beijing Famous For?

Beijing is the capital of China, and it’s one of the most populated cities in the world. It’s the biggest city in China and home to some of the world’s great monuments and landmarks. People around the world recognize it for its majestic imperial palaces, breathtaking architecture, and bustling markets. It’s a city steeped in heritage and culture and home to some of China’s most esteemed universities and scientific research institutes. With all these things, what is Beijing most famous for?

1. World-Famous Historic Sites

Beijing is known for its amazing historic sites like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall. The Forbidden City was built 600 years ago and served as the home of 24 emperors. It is now a museum and a World Heritage Site. The Summer Palace is another imperial attraction that consists of gardens and pavilions. The Temple of Heaven is a holy temple complex recognized by UNESCO as an incredible example of ancient architecture. Lastly, Beijing is strongly linked to the Great Wall of China – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These sites, as well as several other imperial gardens, temples, tombs, pagodas, and cultural complexes, draw visitors to Beijing all year round.

2. Delightful Cuisine

Beijing cuisine is a style often considered the most representative and prestigious in Chinese gastronomy. Many call it “Imperial Cuisine’ because it was easily observed in the oldest Chinese imperial courts. As an example, Peking Roast Duck is a regional classic containing crispy-skinned duck that’s served with accompaniments such as sweet bean sauce and diced spring onions. In addition to traditional Chinese dishes, Beijing dishes include dishes from various regions of China such as Sichuan, Henan, Shandong, Anhui, Cantonese and even Mongolian cuisine. What’s more – there are food streets around famous tourist spots like Wangfuijing Street where several excellent local snacks are on offer.

3. Shopping Opportunities Galore

Beijing is a major shopping hub for both domestic and international customers. From large malls with high-end luxury outlets like Gucci and Prada to traditional street markets crowded with small stalls selling exotic spices and gadgets, there’s a shopping experience for every taste. The Silk Street Market is one of the iconic shopping spots in Beijing while Ghost Street is known for its nightlife atmosphere when grilled meats dominate the air and crowds flock to its many bars. Other popular malls include Xidan Shopping Mall, TaiKoo Li Sanlitun Mall, Oriental Plaza, and APM Shopping Mall.

In conclusion, Beijing is well-known for its ancient monuments and cultural monuments as well as its exquisite cuisine and shopping opportunities. Visitors come from both near and far to witness the historic architecture, explore its old lanes and hustle and bustle streets, try local as well as regional dishes, pick up souvenirs from antique stores and art markets, as well as attend fascinating festivals dedicated to culture and luxury. With so much to offer I’d say visiting Beijing is essential for any traveler looking to get an unforgettable taste of China!
For even more information about Beijing you may visit Travel China Guide .

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Beijing, China

As the capital city of China, Beijing is an important cultural, political and historical center with a plethora of sights and activities for tourists. Home to over 21 million people, this bustling city is known for its ancient temples, delicious food, and historical landmarks. If you’re planning to travel to Beijing, here’s our insider’s guide to help you plan the perfect trip.

Local Attractions

The city is well-known for several popular tourist attractions such as:

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is one of Beijing’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace, which was the seat of power for the Ming and Qing Dynasties, covers a vast area of more than 170 acres. Visitors can enjoy exploring the numerous courtyards, pavilions, and imperial gardens that make up the complex.

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a must-visit destination for any Beijing traveler. The wall stretches more than 13,000 miles and is a testament to China’s ancient history. The Badaling section of the Great Wall, which is closest to Beijing, provides tourists with an impressive view of the wall snaking over the hills.

Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest)

The Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest, is an impressive masterpiece of modern architecture. The stadium is located in the Olympic Green and is the home of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium or attend a sports event.

Dining Spots

Beijing offers a range of dining options from street food vendors to high-end restaurants. Here are a few places foodies shouldn’t miss:

Donglaishun Restaurant

At Donglaishun, you can savor traditional Mongolian hot pot – a delicious and hearty meat and vegetable stew. This restaurant is located near the Forbidden City and is one of Beijing’s oldest hot pot establishments.

Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant

Known for its famous Peking Roast Duck, the Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant has been serving this iconic dish to Beijing residents and visitors for over 150 years. It is one of the oldest and most respected restaurants in the city.

Haidilao Hot Pot

Haidilao is a popular chain of hot pot restaurants known for its excellent service and spicy Sichuan-style hot pot. The company’s first restaurant was in Jianyang, Sichuan Province, but now there are several Haidilao locations in Beijing.

Cultural Experiences

To truly experience the rich culture of Beijing, make time to attend one or more of these cultural performances:

Beijing Opera

Beijing Opera is a traditional Chinese performing art that has been around for over 200 years. This combination of singing, acting, and martial arts is often performed in beautiful costumes and face paint. Visitors can check out a performance at the National Centre for the Performing Arts.

The Legend of Kung Fu Show

The Legend of Kung Fu Show is a unique fusion of traditional martial arts and modern theatre. It tells the story of a young boy’s journey to becoming a Kung Fu master. The show takes place at the Red Theatre, located in Beijing’s Dongcheng District.

The Temple of Heaven – Morning Exercise

The Temple of Heaven is an imperial complex of religious buildings located in Dongcheng District. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal location to watch locals taking part in their morning traditional exercises like Tai Chi, Kung Fu or ballroom dancing.

Local History

Beijing has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of museums and historical landmarks to visit. Here are just a few suggestions:

The Palace Museum

Located inside the Forbidden City, the Palace Museum contains a vast collection of ancient Chinese artifacts, including artwork, ceramics, and furniture, spanning over 5,000 years of history.

The Temple of Confucius

The Temple of Confucius is located in the Andingmen district of Beijing. The Hall of Great Achievement is where Confucius is said to have taught his students, and visitors can see the “Golden Throne” that he sat on.

The Beijing National Museum of China

The Beijing National Museum of China is home to an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, including ceramics, jade, and bronze. It showcases China’s history from the Paleolithic Age to the present day.

Off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking for something different, check out these hidden gems:

The Hutongs

A visit to Beijing’s narrow alleyways, known as Hutongs is a must. These areas showcase life away from the modern high rises and offer visitors a glimpse into China’s past. Paling alley is particularly famous, where you can find street art, craft shops, and local eateries.

798 Art District

Located in Dashanzi Art District, 798 is a hub of art galleries, studios, and cafes that showcase young and upcoming Chinese artists. Many of the 50-year-old factory buildings have been converted into studios, and walking through the district is a treat for the eyes and mind.

The Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Beijing’s city life. The palace complex consists of beautiful lakes, gardens, pavilions, and temples. The architecture here is fascinating and visitors can take a boating tour or simply walk around and revel in the peaceful surroundings.

Whether you’re interested in history, food, art, or simply immersing yourself in local culture, Beijing has something for everyone. Follow this insider’s guide to make the most of your trip to this wonderful city.