What to Do in Beijing? Guide for Tourists

Beijing is one of the most exciting cities in the world and was chosen by UNESCO as one of the top ten cities that are full of culture and heritage. Whether you’re a backpacker, business traveler or just a tourist, there’s something to do in the city for everyone. From the Great Wall of China to the Palace Museum and a variety of activities, Beijing is sure to provide a great time for anyone visiting.

Exploring the Great Wall of China

The first thing that you must do when visiting Beijing is explore the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall of China is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and spans over 5,500 miles making it one of the longest man-made structures ever built. Many sections of the wall have been restored and now offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Most people choose to take day trips that include a visit to the Great Wall and you can easily find them by searching online.

Visiting Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square, often referred to as the “Gate of Heavenly Peace’ is an iconic landmark in Beijing and is where Chairman Mao declared the founding of the People’s Republic of China. There are a number of monuments and statues located within the square, including the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the emblematic portrait of Mao overlooking the square. The scale and location of the square make it an impressive and interesting visit for anyone interested in history and Chinese culture.

Exploring the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, located near Tiananmen Square, is one of Beijing’s most famous attractions. This ancient complex was built as the imperial palace for Chinese emperors, making it a must-visit destination when exploring Beijing and its history. From colorful gardens to majestic temples, each feature tells a different part of Chinese history, making it an interesting tour for all visitors.

Visiting the Palace Museum

An interesting visit for anyone interested in art and culture is the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City Palace Museum. This museum occupies a large space within the Forbidden City’s south-western section and houses over one million artefacts, antiques and artworks collected by various Chinese dynasties over a period of five millennia. From ancient sculptures to holy scrolls, it is sure to provide an interesting glimpse into Chinese heritage.

Taking a Hike on the Mutianyu Great Wall

For adventure seekers, taking a hike along one of the most picturesque parts of the Great Wall is a must-do activity. The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall offers some of the most stunning views and a chance for history lovers to experience one of its greatest monuments first-hand. It is also an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts, making it perfect for anyone who’s looking for a unique experience while they’re in Beijing.

Enjoying a Delicious Peking Duck Meal

No trip to Beijing is complete without enjoying a traditional Peking duck meal. Peking duck is a delicious dish that has become synonymous with Beijing cuisine, which is high in both fat and flavor. It can be enjoyed at restaurants all over Beijing and is generally served as whole pieces of sliced duck with pancakes and usual condiments such as spring onions, cucumber, hoisin sauce and sweet bean sauce.

Exploring Further Sites Around Beijing

If you have more time or are looking for something else to do in Beijing, there are still plenty of things worth exploring such as the Summer Palace or visiting the Temple of Heaven. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also head out to the outskirts and explore famous sites such as the Ming Tombs or catch a glimpse at one of Beijing’s many observatories. Whatever you choose to do in Beijing, you’re sure to leave with amazing memories!Conclusion: Beijing has plenty of amazing things to see and do regardless whether you are a backpacker, business traveler or just a tourist looking for some culture. Whether its visiting iconic monuments such as the Forbidden City or Tiananmen Square or exploring further out such as taking a hike along the Mutianyu Great Wall or tasting traditional Peking Duck dishes, there’s something for everyone in this captivating city. For more information about all the sites that are worth visiting in Beijing, you can check travelchinaguide.com.

Insiders’ Guide: Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Beijing

Beijing – the ancient capital of China, is a city steeped in culture and history. From the iconic Great Wall to the Forbidden City, Beijing has a plethora of world-famous landmarks to draw tourists. While these sights are undeniably interesting, they are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring China’s capital city. Here is a guide to some hidden treasures, beautiful parks, culinary delights, and cultural experiences that every traveler should witness while in Beijing.

Off-the-beaten-path Attractions in Beijing

While many tourists flock to the well-known tourist attractions, some of Beijing’s hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. The underground ruins of the Yuan Dynasty have been meticulously excavated and preserved and are well worth a visit. Alternatively, you could visit the stunning Zizhuyuan Park, known as the Purple Bamboo Park, which houses a lush and serene forested area, hidden pagodas, and a temple. The Houhai River area is another underrated attraction, with its many quaint restaurants, bars, and shops along the picturesque lake.

Discovering Beijing’s Food Culture

Beijing is renowned for its traditional cuisine, drawing its influences from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Start your culinary adventure with Peking duck – a dish made up of carefully cooked duck meat wrapped in pancakes with vegetables and a sweet sauce. Another must-try is Jiaozi, a classic Chinese dumpling that comes in various fillings, including pork, shrimp, and mushroom. For those who are daring, try the scorpions and insects sold in Wangfujing, although they are not for the faint of heart.

Cultural Experiences in Beijing

To get a closer look at Beijing’s culture, a visit to the Temple of Heaven is a must. This beautiful complex comprises several temples and gardens, offering an authentic experience of ancient Chinese religious and cultural practices. During the winter months, you can also witness the traditional Dragon and Lion Dance in the temple. For a more modern twist on Beijing’s culture, visit the 798 Art District, a former factory complex turned hotbed of contemporary artwork, galleries, and art exhibitions.

Exploring the Intriguing History of Beijing

To dive deeper into Beijing’s past, visiting the Kong Family Mansion is highly recommended. This attraction is the ancestral home of Confucius, a celebrated ancient philosopher, and educator. You can delve into the lives and traditions of his descendants, how they lived, and what they believed. Another site preserving a part of China’s past is the China Modern National Opera, presenting Beijing opera, one of the most ancient forms of Chinese entertainment.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions for Beijing

For an unforgettable experience, visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, which is less crowded than the usual Ming Dynasty section that most tourists visit. Here, you can walk the wall in relative peace and quiet, while enjoying the fantastic scenery around you. Another unique and unforgettable experience is exploring the city on a bike ride through the ancient Hutongs, narrow alleyways dotted around Beijing where locals live. This will give you a unique insight into how Beijing’s inhabitants live.

In conclusion, Beijing is a city that thrives on its traditions, heritage, food, culture, and art. While there is no shortage of tourist hotspots in this vibrant metropolis, there is so much more to Beijing than meets the eye. With this insiders’ guide, travel enthusiasts, and curious wanderers alike can explore the hidden treasures of Beijing and create unforgettable memories.