Skip to content Beijing, the capital city of China, is a bustling metropolis that offers a perfect blend of ancient history and modern charm. From iconic landmarks like the Great Wall of China to the delicious flavors of Peking Duck, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, Beijing has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained.
Key Takeaways
- The Great Wall of China is a must-visit landmark, offering various sections for different experiences, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
- The Forbidden City, once home to emperors, is a sprawling complex with a rich history and stunning architecture.
- Tiananmen Square is a significant historical site and one of the largest public squares in the world.
- Exploring Beijing’s Hutongs gives a glimpse into traditional Chinese life and architecture.
- The Temple of Heaven is a beautiful park and historical site where emperors once prayed for good harvests.
1. Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is a must-see for anyone visiting Beijing. This iconic structure stretches over 4,000 miles and has fascinated people for centuries. Built during different eras of Chinese history, the first unifying wall was constructed by China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, around 220 BC. Much of the wall that stands today was rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) using stronger materials.
The sections closest to Beijing, like Badaling and Mutianyu, have been restored and are among the world’s most visited tourist spots. Badaling is the most accessible and popular, often crowded with tourists. Mutianyu, a bit farther from the city, offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
For those seeking adventure, the Jiankou section provides challenging hikes and stunning views. The Simatai section is unique as it is the only part open at night, offering a romantic evening tour.
- Badaling: Closest to Beijing, very popular, accessible by local and tourist buses.
- Mutianyu: Less crowded, recommended to hire a driver or take a tour.
- Jiankou: Best for adventurous hikers, offers serious hiking challenges.
- Simatai: Only section open at night, perfect for a different evening experience.
Visiting the Great Wall is a bucket list experience that offers a glimpse into China’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
2. Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is a must-see attraction in Beijing. This massive palace complex covers 720,000 square meters and is surrounded by a 10-meter-high wall and a 52-meter-wide moat. It was home to 24 Chinese emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The name “Forbidden City” comes from the fact that commoners were not allowed to enter the complex.
Today, about 80% of the Forbidden City is open to visitors. It takes at least two hours to tour, but you can easily spend an entire day exploring its many halls, courtyards, and gardens. The best time to visit is from mid-October to the end of November.
Tips for Visiting
- Book tickets online to avoid long lines.
- Bring your passport for ID verification.
- The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays.
- Avoid visiting during national holidays to skip the crowds.
How to Get There
- Subway: Take Line 1 and get off at Tiananmen West or East Station (Exit B).
- Bus: Board the Dongzhimen tourist line bus at the bus stop outside Dongzhimen. It starts at 8:30 am every day and returns at 4 pm from the Scenic P1 parking lot.
Entry Fees
| Season | Fee |
| April to October | CNY 60 |
| November to March | CNY 40 |
The Forbidden City is a symbol of China’s imperial power and a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history. Don’t miss this incredible site when you’re in Beijing.
3. Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square, or Tiananmen Guangchang, is a vast public space at the heart of Beijing. It is both a literal and symbolic center of modern China. The square is named after the Gate of Heavenly Peace, which separates it from the Forbidden City. Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of the People’s Republic of China here in 1949.
The square is surrounded by several significant buildings:
- The Great Hall of the People: This is China’s most important government building, located on the western side of the square.
- The National Museum of China: Situated on the eastern side, it showcases China’s extensive history and culture.
- Mao Zedong’s Mausoleum: Located in the center, this mausoleum houses the embalmed body of Chairman Mao.
- The Monument to the People’s Heroes: This monument stands as a tribute to those who fought for China’s revolution.
Tiananmen Square has witnessed many historic events, including the pro-democracy demonstrations in 1989, which were brutally suppressed by the military. Today, visitors can witness the flag-raising and lowering ceremonies, which are daily events attracting many onlookers.
Visiting Tiananmen Square is a profound experience, offering a glimpse into China’s turbulent past and its journey toward the future.
4. Beijing Hutong Tour
Exploring the Beijing Hutongs is like stepping back in time. These narrow alleyways, known as hutongs, are lined with traditional courtyard houses and offer a glimpse into the old Beijing life. Wandering through these mazes is a favorite activity for many visitors, providing a unique and authentic experience of the city’s culture and history.
Rickshaw Ride
To cover more ground, consider taking a rickshaw ride. This traditional mode of transport allows you to see a lot of the hutongs quickly. You can book a rickshaw tour in advance or hire one at the lake or on the main street. It’s a fun way to take in the daily life of these historic alleyways.
Back Sea – Houhai
Houhai, also known as Back Sea, is a man-made lake surrounded by shops and tea houses. It’s a popular spot among locals and offers boat tours and scenic walks. From Houhai, you can easily reach Pipe Street, the Drum and Bell Tower, and explore more hutongs.
Pipe Street – Yandai Xiejie
Pipe Street, or Yandai Xiejie, is one of the oldest and busiest hutongs in Beijing. Shaped like a pipe, this street is filled with snack vendors and thrift stores. It’s a must-visit for shopping and tasting local Beijing food.
The joys of the hutongs come from getting lost in the maze of alleyways and getting a taste of the old Beijing life.
5. Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven, built in 1420, is a vast complex covering 270 acres. It was originally used by the Ming and Qing emperors for annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests. This is the largest building for religious worship in China.
Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is the most iconic building within the Temple of Heaven. This circular structure with a triple-gabled roof is where emperors would pray for bountiful harvests. Its magnificent architecture and symbolic design embody the connection between heaven and earth, a central tenet of Chinese cosmology.
Imperial Vault of Heaven
The Imperial Vault of Heaven is a smaller circular building enclosed by the Echo Wall, which allows whispers to be heard clearly from one end to the other due to its acoustics. Inside the vault are the tablets of the gods for the annual worship ceremony. It is connected to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests by the Vermilion Steps Bridge, a raised walkway.
Circular Mound Altar
The Circular Mound Altar is an empty circular platform on three levels of marble stones, located in the southern part of the complex. It is used for the Heaven Worship Ceremony during the winter solstice. The design of the altar is based on numerology; for instance, the top tier consists of nine rings of nine stones, significant because the number nine was historically associated with the Emperor.
The Temple of Heaven Park is a great place to see locals doing their morning activities such as practicing tai chi. It is one of the most fun things to do in Beijing!
6. Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, also known as Yiheyuan, is a stunning imperial garden that dates back to the 18th century. It served as the summer residence for Chinese royals and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace is centered around Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, offering a picturesque landscape that combines natural beauty with traditional Chinese architecture.
Key Attractions
- Longevity Hill: This hill provides a panoramic view of the entire garden and is dotted with various pavilions and halls.
- Kunming Lake: A man-made lake where you can enjoy a dragon boat ride or a peaceful stroll along its shores.
- Long Corridor: A 728-meter-long decorative walkway adorned with over 14,000 colorful paintings.
- Suzhou Market Street: A charming area with riverside shops where you can buy souvenirs and snacks.
- Garden of Virtue and Harmony: A serene garden where emperors once watched Peking opera performances.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Summer Palace is from April to October when the weather is pleasant and the gardens are in full bloom. During this period, you can fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape and the intricate details of the architecture.
Ticket Information
- Peak Season (April to October): CNY 30 for adults, CNY 15 for students
- Off-Season (November to March): CNY 20 for adults, CNY 10 for students
How to Get There
Take subway line 4 to Beigongmen Station and leave from exit 1. The palace is a short walk from the station, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The Summer Palace is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Beijing. Its blend of natural beauty and historical significance offers a unique glimpse into China’s imperial past.
7. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)
The Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe Temple, is a must-visit site in Beijing. This vibrant temple complex, originally built in 1694, was once an imperial palace before becoming a monastery for Tibetan Buddhist monks. Today, it remains a popular place of worship among locals.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted with free incense, a traditional offering in Buddhism. The temple’s layout is fascinating, with each hall’s courtyard leading to an even larger temple, creating a sense of discovery as you explore.
Highlights
- Three Guinness World Records: The temple holds records for the largest wooden Buddha statue carved from a single piece of white sandalwood.
- Tea Room: Don’t miss the chance to try the lovely chrysanthemum tea for just ¥10.
- Nearest Subway: Yonghegong (Lama Temple) on lines 2 and 5.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm from April to October and 9:00 am to 4:00 pm from November to March.
- Cost: 25 Yuan
The Lama Temple is a masterpiece in itself, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and spirituality. It’s a place where you can truly feel the connection between worshippers and the Buddha.
8. Jingshan Park
Jingshan Park is a must-visit spot in Beijing, offering a blend of history, culture, and stunning views. This park, once part of the imperial city, is famous for its 45-meter-high artificial hill. From the top, you get a breathtaking view of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
The park is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with the last admission at 8:30 PM. The entry fee ranges from CNY 5 to CNY 20, depending on the season.
Things to Do
- Explore Buddhist Temples: The park houses several Buddhist temples worth visiting.
- Enjoy Folk Performances: Catch local Pipa performances and enjoy traditional snacks.
- Visit Historical Sites: Don’t miss the Nine-Dragon Screen, 5 Dragons Pavilion, and the White Dagoba.
How to Get There
Take a bus from Tiananmen West and get off at Forbidden City. From there, it’s an eight-minute walk to Jingshan Park.
9. 798 Art District
The 798 Art District is one of Beijing’s trendiest spots, perfect for art, culture, and fashion enthusiasts. Located about 30 minutes from the city center, this area was once filled with old, abandoned factories designed by German experts. Today, it has transformed into a unique hub for art exhibitions and workshops.
What to See
- UCCA Center for Contemporary Art: A must-visit for modern art lovers.
- 798 Art Factory: Offers a glimpse into the district’s industrial past while showcasing contemporary art.
- Ace Café: A trendy spot to relax and enjoy a coffee.
- M Woods Art Gallery: Features a variety of modern art pieces.
Timings and Entry
- Timings: 9 am – 6 pm
- Entry Fee: Free entry
How to Get There
Take a taxi from Dongzhimen, and you’ll reach your destination within 10 minutes.
The 798 Art District is a fascinating blend of old and new, where you can see fashion enthusiasts decked in chic clothes alongside uniformed workers. It’s a place where the past meets the present in the most artistic way possible.
For those looking to explore the funky and modern side of Beijing, the 798 Art District is a must-visit. Top ways to experience 798 Art Zone include private tours and layover tours that combine visits to other major attractions like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City.
10. Bird’s Nest Stadium – National Stadium
The Beijing National Stadium, famously known as the Bird’s Nest, is an architectural marvel designed for the 2008 Summer Olympics. Its unique design, inspired by Chinese-style ‘crazed pottery,’ makes it a must-see landmark in Beijing. The stadium’s outer shell is the world’s largest steel structure, showcasing an intricate web of crisscrossing supports.
Visitors can explore the stadium and even see the track where Usain Bolt won his first Olympic gold medal. The Bird’s Nest is not just for sports; it also hosts concerts and other major events throughout the year.
Things to Do Near the Bird’s Nest
- Visit the Water Cube: Located nearby, this aquatic center lights up beautifully at night.
- Explore Olympic Park: The park surrounding the stadium is filled with impressive architecture and open spaces for a stroll.
The Bird’s Nest is a symbol of modern Beijing, blending innovative design with cultural significance. Don’t miss the chance to see this iconic structure up close.
Practical Information
- Timings: 9 am – 5:00 pm (November to March), 9 am – 2:30 pm (April to October)
- Entry Fee: CNY 50
- How to Reach: Use line 8 subway to Olympic Sports Center Station and walk for 10 minutes.
11. Ming Tombs
The Ming Tombs, located about 50 kilometers from Beijing, offer a glimpse into China’s imperial past. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The site showcases over two centuries of cultural and architectural evolution.
Visitors approach the tombs via the Sacred Way, a path lined with stone statues of guardians, including animals and court officials. The layout and design of the tombs follow the principles of Feng Shui, ensuring a harmonious balance with nature.
A visit to the Ming Tombs can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how many tombs you explore and your pace. The proximity to Beijing makes it an easy day trip, often combined with a visit to the Great Wall of China.
12. Peking Duck
No visit to Beijing is complete without tasting its most famous dish, Peking Duck. This dish is known for its thin, crispy skin and is often served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The experience of eating Peking Duck is as delightful as the taste itself.
Where to Eat
Beijing boasts several top-notch restaurants where you can enjoy this delicacy. Some of the best Peking Duck restaurants in Beijing include:
- Quanjude Beijing Roast Duck Restaurant
- Dadong Beijing Roast Duck Restaurant
- Liqun Roast Duck Restaurant
- Hua’s Restaurant
How to Eat
The chef will bring out a perfectly roasted duck and slice it right at your table. You can then make your little wraps using the provided pancakes, scallions, and sauce. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meal.
Your trip to Beijing isn’t complete until you’ve savored an authentic Peking Duck dinner. The dish is a must-try and offers a unique culinary experience that you won’t forget.
Best Time to Eat
Peking Duck is great all year round, so you can enjoy it no matter when you visit Beijing.
13. Beijing Hot Pot
When in Beijing, a hot pot meal is a must-try experience. This communal dining style is not only about the food but also about the social experience. Beijing hot pot is a delightful way to warm up during the city’s cold winters.
Where to Go
For an authentic experience, head to Dong Lai Shun, one of the leading hotpot restaurants in the city. This is the traditional way of eating hot pot in Beijing, and it offers a variety of excellent spaces, top-notch food, and a courtyard feel.
What to Expect
Hot pot involves cooking a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering pot of broth right at your table. You can choose from different broths, ranging from mild to spicy. The ingredients are fresh, and the dipping sauces add an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Enjoying Hot Pot
- Choose your broth: Decide between a spicy or mild base.
- Select fresh ingredients: Opt for a mix of meats, seafood, and vegetables.
- Make your dipping sauce: Combine soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for a personalized touch.
- Cook at your own pace: Enjoy the process and the company of your dining companions.
A visit to Beijing wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a hot pot meal. It’s a culinary adventure that brings people together and offers a taste of local culture.
14. Wangfujing Street Night Market
Wangfujing Street is a bustling area, especially in the evening. During the day, it’s a popular shopping district, but at night, it transforms into a lively market. This is where you’ll find the weird and wacky side of Beijing. You can see sea horses, scorpions, and starfish served on skewers. Some scorpions are even still moving, which is not for the faint-hearted.
If you’re not up for trying these unusual snacks, there are plenty of other options like dumplings at various food stalls. Remember to bargain for your shopping, as it’s part of the experience. The street is always crowded, so be prepared to deal with lots of people.
For a taste of the odd side of Beijing, Wangfujing Street Night Market is an interesting visit. You’ll be dealing with crowds and remember to bargain for your shopping.
15. Silk Street
Silk Street, located in the bustling Chaoyang District of Beijing, is a must-visit shopping destination. Despite its name, it offers much more than just silk. Here, you can find a vast array of items including clothes, shoes, accessories, souvenirs, food items, and electronics. Silk Street is especially famous for its high-quality counterfeit designer goods.
When visiting Silk Street, be prepared to haggle. Prices are often marked up by 50-60%, so bargaining is essential. The negotiation process can be quite theatrical, with vendors using expressive gestures and dramatic exclamations. If you’re interested in an item, try not to show it, as vendors can pick up on your interest and use it to their advantage.
The Silk Market is a unique shopping experience that combines the thrill of bargaining with the opportunity to purchase a wide variety of goods.
For those looking to master their haggling skills, Silk Street is the perfect place to practice. Even if you don’t end up buying much, the experience itself is worth it. From tailor-made garments to electronics, there’s something for everyone at Silk Street.
16. Bell and Drum Tower
The Bell and Drum Tower are iconic landmarks in Beijing, standing tall above the traditional hutongs. These two structures have been the city’s timekeepers for centuries.
Bell Tower
The Bell Tower, a 47-meter tall stone structure, houses a massive copper bell weighing over 60 tons. This tower has been Beijing’s official timekeeper since the age of the Mongols.
Drum Tower
Facing the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower rises majestically over the gray rooftops of the hutongs. It features steep steps leading to exhibits on ancient Chinese time-keeping and an hourly drumming performance.
Climbing the steep steps of the Drum Tower offers a unique glimpse into Beijing’s history and a panoramic view of the city.
In 2001, the drum and bell rang out to welcome the new year, a tradition that continues to bring blessings to the people each year.
17. Beihai Park
Beihai Park, a former imperial garden, is one of the most beautiful places in Beijing. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city. The park is famous for its stunning lake, which covers half of its 690,000 square meters. At the center of the lake, you’ll find Jade Flower Island with the majestic White Dagoba towering over the park.
Things to Do
- Boat Rides: Rent a paddle or electric boat to explore the lake and see the lotus beds up close.
- Tai Chi Classes: Join a Tai Chi class and interact with friendly locals.
- Historical Sites: Visit the Nine-Dragon Screen, 5 Dragons Pavilion, and the White Dagoba.
Tips for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Entry Fee: CNY 10 – CNY 20 during peak season; CNY 5 – CNY 15 in the off-season.
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Tiananmen West and get off at Forbidden City, followed by an eight-minute walk to Beihai Park.
18. Panjiayuan Antiques Market
Panjiayuan Antiques Market is a must-visit spot in Beijing, especially for those who love to shop for unique items. This market is the largest antique market in China, and it’s known for its local specialties. Here, you can find a wide range of items, including cloisonné, ivory carvings, jade pieces, lacquer carvings, antiques, and freshwater pearls.
What to Expect
- Over 4,000 dealers: The market is sprawling and partially covered, with thousands of dealers selling replica antiques, ceramics, jade, calligraphy brushes, handicrafts, and Communist memorabilia.
- Haggling is a must: Be prepared to bargain hard, as the initial prices are often inflated.
- Weekend mornings only: The market is best visited on weekend mornings when it is most lively.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early: The market gets crowded, so it’s best to arrive early to get the best deals and avoid the rush.
- Check authenticity: Keep in mind that the vast majority of antiques are fake, so inspect items carefully before purchasing.
- Cash is king: Most dealers prefer cash, so make sure to bring enough with you.
A half-day Beijing trip to discover the local antiques market is a great way to spend your morning. You’ll find all sorts of treasures and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
How to Get There
- Nearest subway: Panjiayuan on Line 10
- Opening hours: Roughly 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, but some stalls may stay open later.
- Cost: Free to enter, but bring money for shopping.
Whether you’re a collector or just looking for a unique souvenir, Panjiayuan Antiques Market offers a fascinating glimpse into Beijing’s vibrant market culture.
19. Confucius Temple and Imperial College
Nestled in the hutongs to the west of the Lama Temple, the Confucius Temple and Imperial College offer a serene escape from the bustling city. This site is dedicated to Confucius, a great thinker, philosopher, and educationalist in ancient China. His teachings, known as Confucianism, spread across parts of Asia and Europe.
Upon entering, you’ll find an almost ethereal atmosphere as if time has stood still. The temple is the second-largest Confucian Temple in China, with the largest being in Qufu, Shandong. The temple grounds house 13 Confucian classics written on 190 stelae, totaling 630,000 characters.
The Imperial College, located next to the temple, was the highest educational institute during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. It was here that students took the Imperial Examinations, which guaranteed wealth, status, and a government position if passed. These exams focused on the candidates’ knowledge of the classics and literary style.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm (May to October); 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (November to April)
- Entry Fee: CNY 30 (combo ticket including Confucius Temple and Imperial College)
Visiting the Confucius Temple and Imperial College is like stepping back in time, offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into China’s rich educational history.
20. Fayuan Temple
Fayuan Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Beijing, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Unlike the more famous temples in Beijing, Fayuan Temple is less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat. Founded in 645 AD during the Tang Dynasty, it has a rich history and is known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens.
Visitors can explore the temple’s various halls, each dedicated to different Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The temple also houses a library with ancient Buddhist scriptures and texts, making it a significant site for those interested in Buddhist culture and history.
Highlights
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Fayuan Temple is a quiet place, perfect for meditation and reflection.
- Historical Significance: With a history dating back over a thousand years, the temple offers a glimpse into ancient Chinese Buddhism.
- Beautiful Architecture: The temple’s design and structure are a testament to traditional Chinese architecture.
- Cultural Experience: Visitors can learn about Buddhist practices and explore the temple’s library of ancient texts.
Fayuan Temple is a hidden gem in Beijing, providing a unique and tranquil experience away from the city’s more touristy spots.
Conclusion
Beijing is a city that truly has it all. From ancient wonders like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City to modern attractions and delicious food, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying local cuisine, or simply soaking in the vibrant culture, Beijing offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to experience the magic of Beijing. Your unforgettable journey awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the Great Wall of China?
The best time to visit the Great Wall of China is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful.
How much time should I spend at the Forbidden City?
You should plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the Forbidden City to see the main attractions. However, if you want to see everything in detail, you might need a whole day.
Is Tiananmen Square open to the public?
Yes, Tiananmen Square is open to the public daily. It is a popular place for both tourists and locals.
What are Beijing Hutongs?
Beijing Hutongs are narrow alleys or lanes that represent traditional neighborhoods. They are great for exploring on foot or by rickshaw to see the local way of life.
Can I visit the Temple of Heaven?
Yes, the Temple of Heaven is open to visitors. It is a beautiful historical site where emperors used to pray for good harvests.
Where can I try authentic Peking Duck in Beijing?
You can try authentic Peking Duck at many famous restaurants in Beijing, such as Quanjude and Da Dong. These places are well-known for their delicious and traditional Peking Duck.
