Historical Attractions
Beijing, China’s capital city, has cultural and historical attractions. From the Forbidden City to the Temple of Heaven to the Great Wall, many excellent sites exist to explore and discover. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the must-see historical attractions in Beijing:
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is one of the most famous landmarks in Beijing and has held an important place in China’s history for centuries. Located near the city’s cultural center, it served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors from 1420 to 1911 and is a marvel of traditional Chinese architecture. The central axis from the southern to the northern gate is 980 meters (3,216 feet) long and is lined with several courtyards, pavilions, palaces, and gardens.
The magnificent complex was designed around a series of almost square enclosures surrounded by walls, a moat, and gates. It covers 720 thousand square meters (178 acres) with more than 90 palaces, 980 courtyards, and 8,704 rooms, making it one of China’s most significant existing ancient monuments. Once inside, you can stroll on beautiful marble pathways passing through Moon Gate or Gate of Divine Might to enter inner palaces where emperors reside with their families and concubines.
Constructed during Ming Dynasty under Emperor Zhu Di’s reign over 500 years ago, The Forbidden City allows visitors to gain insight into Chinese culture and the grandeur of royal life within its pink walled gates, helping them appreciate rich Chinese heritage as well as experience Beijing’s ancient past.
The Great Wall
The Great Wall of China, stretching nearly 4,000 miles from Shanhaiguan Pass in the east to Lop Lake in the west, is one of Beijing’s most iconic sights. Due to its immense scale, the Wall is recognized as one of the world’s most significant accomplishments. Built over 2,400 years ago during the Qin dynasty to protect China against invaders and expand the Chinese empire into new lands, this impressive structure is estimated to have cost 1 million lives.
This architectural wonder is a must-see when visiting Beijing and offers stunning vistas. It reminds us of long-ago times and pays tribute to those who had faith in their citizens’ futures.
The Wall contains five official sections –
- The Jinshanling Great Wall
- Hutong Tours at Huanghuacheng Great Wall
- The Mutianyu Great Wall and Badaling Great Wall
- Jiankou Great Wall
- Simatai West/ East Section
– each one with its unique features. Visitors can opt for cable cars riding along some sections for an overhead view or hiking up steep or gentle slopes on more remote parts. With local expert guides and adventure tours available for visitors looking for more than just sightseeing excursions, you should explore many aspects of this national treasure to understand its grandeur and history!
The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, located in the suburbs of Beijing, is a classical imperial garden combining beautiful scenery and architecture. It was built in 1750, and this immense palace contains numerous halls, pavilions, and bridges set in an area over three times the size of the Forbidden City. Its architecture embodies a unique blend of Chinese and Western styles.
The Summer Palace offers many attractions for those looking to experience an exciting mix of history and culture. Visitors should not miss the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, which notably houses emperors’ statues dressed according to four-season costumes made of embroidered satin shown by wax figures. Also worth seeing is Kunming Lake, with its many bridges and towering temples that adorn the various hills around them – such as the Temple of Buddhist Virtue found on one side, built in 1888 to commemorate Empress Dowager Cixi’s 60th birthday. Last, one can find many traditional Chinese gardens filled with rare plants; for example, Yuanmingyuan (Imperial Gardens).
This fascinating site has also been listed as a World Heritage Site since 1998 due to its exquisite beauty and historical significance. Thus it is highly recommended that visitors spare at least half a day to explore and understand this famous palace if they have time during their stay in Beijing – it will be an experience they’ll never forget!
Cultural Attractions
Beijing, the capital of China, is an exciting city full of rich cultural attractions. From visiting some of the city’s historical sites, such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China, to exploring Beijing’s modern cultural center, the 798 Art Zone, there is no shortage of things to do.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular cultural attractions in Beijing:
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings in the southeastern part of central Beijing, China. For annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for a good harvest, the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties visited the complex. It has been regarded as a Taoist temple, although Chinese heaven worship predates Taoism, especially by the reigning monarch of the day. The temple complex was constructed from 1406 to 1420 during the reign of the Yongle Emperor, who was also responsible for creating the Forbidden City in Beijing. The complex was extended and renamed the Temple of Heaven during the reign of the Jiajing Emperor in the 16th century.
The Temple complex covers 2.73 km2 (1.67 sq mi) of parkland and comprises three main groups:
- Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (the Circular Mound Altar)
- Imperial Vault Of Heaven
- Circular Mound Altar
Emperors used these throughout centuries on different occasions, such as honoring the heavens and praying for good harvests or rain, but also by ordinary people in an attempt to make a wish come true. In 1911 Qing dynasty ended its rule in China after centuries, and the tradition stopped existing in its literal form. It was replaced by a communist regime, which introduced quite drastic changes.
Lama Temple
The Lama Temple is an active place of worship and one of the most popular attractions in Beijing. Located in the northeastern part of the city and surrounded by a peaceful garden, this temple dates back to 1744; it was burned down shortly after that and rebuilt by a powerful Chinese Emperor. It draws both Buddhists and tourists from across China and around the world.
The temple is best known for its distinct style of architecture, which includes Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan influences, with bright colors adorning its roof and walls. Vivid sculptures depicting traditional Chinese religions decorate its inner walls. The Lama Temple also features some ornamental relics that are said to date back thousands of years, such as statues crafted in clay made from 1196 BC. Meditation sessions are occasionally held on-site, as well as festivals celebrating aspects of Buddhism or other religious holidays throughout the year.
Visitors should be prepared for crowds during peak season; however, weekends often see fewer tourists than other days due to restricted visiting hours on Saturdays – closed from noon to 3 p.m., while Sundays have no time restrictions on entry or exit time frames. In addition, as it is an active religious space, guests must be mindful when taking pictures or video recordings inside the temple grounds; photographs should not be taken during meditation sessions nor of any sacred objects unless permission is granted first by Lama Temple personnel or monks at worship sites around the complex.
The National Museum
The National Museum of China is the largest in the country, located in the Dongcheng District of Beijing. This state-run museum documents Chinese history and culture from ancient times to today. Comprised of two sites, it consists of an east building and a west building, both over 600,000 square meters.
In the east wing, visitors can explore China’s archaeological past with exhibitions on paleolithic cultures and feudal dynasties. Its collections include over one million cultural objects ranging from ancient jade carvings to contemporary photography. Highlights include Emperor Shun’s jade coffin ornaments and Qin Shi Huang’s Terracotta Army. The West wing focuses on modern Chinese history and art, with highlights including Revolution Gallery or Old Beijing Scene paintings by master Wu Guanzhong.
Aside from its permanent collection, the museum hosts special exhibitions featuring a variety of themes throughout the year, such as coin and currency collections or ceramics exhibits. The National Museum also has a library housed in its east wing with over 200,000 books visitors can peruse for research or leisure reading. Admission to this top attraction is free; however, visitors must purchase tickets separately for specific exhibitions due to the limited quantities available daily.
Shopping
Beijing, China, is packed with unique places to shop. From bustling street markets to upscale shopping malls, every budget and shopping style can be accommodated in Beijing. From traditional Chinese wares like tea, calligraphy, and craftwork to international brands and designer products, Beijing has something to offer everyone.
Let’s explore the different shopping opportunities that abound in this bustling city:
Wangfujing Street
Wangfujing Street is a must-visit for anyone in Beijing. One of the city’s most popular shopping and tourism spots, Wangfujing Street is renowned for its excellent selection of stores, restaurants, and attractions. In addition, it offers some of Beijing’s best night markets and various cultural landmarks and activities.
Since the early 20th century, Wangfujing Street has been the premier shopping center in Beijing, offering everything from high-end luxury items to traditional Chinese handicrafts. Home to major department stores like New World Department Store and Shin Kong Place, as well as specialty boutiques and street vendors selling local snack foods such as sugar-coated hawthorns, deep-fried scorpions on a stick, candied squash, and more. Many international brands like Uniqlo, Zara, and H&M are here.
The numerous side streets branching off Wangfujing Street are also significant shopping areas – you can find everything from electronics to jewelry here. Aside from general retail goods available at any shopping complex in China – this neighborhood includes local clothing stores selling traditional Chinese clothing such as Tang suits and qipao dresses.
The infamous Donghuamen Night Market can also be found here – opened after dark to provide travelers with strange snacks like sea cucumbers on skewers or seahorse soup! So whether you are looking for high-end luxury goods or trying something new and exotic – Wangfujing Street has something for everyone!
Panjiayuan Market
Panjiayuan Market is in Beijing, the city’s largest antique and artifact marketplace. This bustling market features hundreds of stalls selling everything from authentic Buddhist and traditional Chinese art to antique furniture and handcrafted artifacts. In addition, visitors can find everything from classic Chinese ceramics and jade sculptures to ancient coins and Tibetan jewelry. With such a wide variety of items available at Panjiayuan Market, it’s no wonder this market attracts large crowds daily.
The market is divided into three main sections:
- The antique corner, which focuses on antiques;
- A handicraft section with flowery embroideries, cloisonne vases, intricate carvings, papercutting artwork; and
- A cultural corner featuring historical maps, coins, and stamps. You will also find incense sticks for traditional ceremonies and collectors’ items like old knives here.
It’s important to remember that most of what is sold here are replicas or forgeries, so be sure to double-check before buying anything pricey! Bargaining is also an essential part of shopping at Panjiayuan Market – prices can sometimes come down dramatically if you’re willing to negotiate with the stall owners. Last but not least, the atmosphere at Panjiayuan Market is alive with vibrant colors and characters – culture vultures should take some time out here to soak up some unique sights!
Silk Street Market
The Silk Street Market, located at 8 Xiushui East Street in Beijing, is one of the city’s most famous markets. This bustling market offers a variety of bargains on clothing, jewelry, electronics, artworks, and tourist souvenirs.
Most visitors find this market to be most noted for its wide selection of Chinese silks. Vendor stands offer thousands of fabrics in various colors and types, from sheer chiffon to polyester blends — all at very reasonable prices. As a result, it is generally easier to bargain here than in major department stores.
Silk Street Market is also renowned for its handbags, sunglasses, bootleg DVDs, rare jewelry pieces, and much more. Much of the merchandise comes from big factories in major cities like Shanghai, which use it as an outlet to get rid of excess stock or otherwise unavailable inventory to the local consumer base.
A fun-filled day at Silk Street can involve navigating through hundreds of stalls located inside and outside the building while enjoying delicious snacks such as:
- Fruits (just freshly cut)
- Bubble tea (also referred to as “boba” tea)
- Yuebing (Chinese moon cake)
The store surroundings feature modern shops and tiny stalls offering traditional Chinese food – perfect for getting a natural feel for local culture!
Outdoor Activities
Beijing, China, is a great city to explore, especially when it comes to outdoor activities. From parks to golf courses, there are a variety of activities to enjoy. Stroll in one of Beijing’s many parks, or experience the Great Wall of China. You can also go camping, fishing, or biking in the area. Read on to learn more about all the exciting outdoor activities available in Beijing.
- Take a stroll in one of Beijing’s many parks.
- Experience the Great Wall of China.
- Go camping.
- Go fishing.
- Go biking.
Hiking at the Great Wall
The Great Wall of China is one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit attraction for any tourist. Although it’s possible to explore the Wall from its many ceremonial towers, the best way to see it is on foot- and the section that runs through suburban Beijing is perfect for an adventurous day out!
Hiking along the Wall gives adventurers an insight into the area’s ancient history and culture and breathtaking views of the dense Chinese countryside. The Jiankou section of The Great Wall offers steep inclines and rugged terrain, while other more accessible areas, like Jinshanling, are more suited for amateur hikers. As you hike around Beijing’s prehistoric fortifications, you can take picturesque shots and enjoy lunch in quaint rural restaurants.
The hikes along The Great Wall vary in difficulty depending on where you decide to go. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring plenty of water supplies, snacks, sunscreen, and rain gear. If you don’t feel like tackling a 6-mile hike by yourself, tour guides can show you around- some can even give tours in foreign languages like English or German!
Whichever route you choose along The Great Wall, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience – with jaw-dropping views unparalleled anywhere else in China!
Cycling Around the City
Cycling around Beijing is a great experience, and the city offers some excellent routes. Whether you want to cycle casually or are up for a challenge, there is something here for everyone. Whether you take on a leisurely ride along the lakefront, the Forbidden City in Jingshan Park, or even venture further afield to the Great Wall of China, there are many sights to behold as you navigate on two wheels.
At various points in your journey, you may explore some parts of this big city that tourists might otherwise miss out on. Plenty of smaller markets and residential areas offer a unique cultural experience outside the beaten track, and taking a short detour can always be rewarding.
Beijing is well equipped with facilities for cyclists, so it’s easy enough to rent bikes from many locations across the city, stores near tourist attractions, or bike-sharing companies. Furthermore, safety gear can be purchased at almost any bicycle store, so cycling needn’t be unpleasant or unsafe. With paths crisscrossing Beijing’s sprawling parks and much more open space than other major cities in China, Beijing is an ideal place to explore through cycling!
Kayaking on the Lakes
Kayaking is a fun, accessible outdoor activity you can enjoy while in Beijing, China. The city features many large lakes that provide an ideal environment for kayaking through the shallow waters and small islands. Lakes such as Bai He (White River Lake) and Hou Hai (Back Lake) are perfect destinations to explore by kayak due to their tranquil beauty and relatively calm waters. Both of these lakes have dedicated boat docks for effortless loading of your kayak, so you can explore the expanse of each lake without having to carry your craft on foot.
Since several islands are located within the lakes, kayaking is an easy way to explore them from different points of view. However, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out exploring nature or trying something more adventurous, it’s worth noting that the lake waters near Beijing get choppier during windy days, so be prepared with safety equipment such as life jackets when taking part in any water sports or activities.
The experience of paddling out onto one of Beijing’s picturesque lakes will stay with you long after your journey has ended – it truly is an idyllic location to try out a new activity and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Food & Drinks
Beijing has an array of yummy dishes that you do not want to miss out on. From steamed dumplings to Peking Ducks, the city’s restaurants offer something unique you won’t find anywhere else.
This section will explore all the food and drinks in Beijing. From traditional street food to upscale bars, there is something for everyone to enjoy:
Peking Duck
Peking Duck is a classic dish from Beijing, China. It is a roasted duck dish renowned for its succulent, crisp skin and flavorful meat since the imperial era. The dish gained international fame during the Qing Dynasty when it was served to foreign dignitaries and diplomats.
This delicacy begins with selecting a special breed called the Peking duck. These birds are raised in special enclosures with controlled diets and exercise routines, resulting in lean, compact chickens with thin skin. Next, the ducks are slaughtered and hung up to dry to ensure extra crispiness during the roasting process.
The roasting process requires expertise and skill. First, the duck is put in an oven that has been preheated at 140°C (284°F) for 15 minutes before the heat is gradually increased up to 250°C (482°F). Throughout this process, expert chefs constantly monitor the temperature so as not to char or overcook the bird.
Once finished cooking, Peking Duck is served with thin Chinese pancakes partially brushed with hoisin sauce, along with cucumber slices, onion sprouts, or julienned scallions. Pickled vegetables or juicy steamed pears can accompany this delicious dish as side dishes add more flavor and texture to complete the meal!
Hot Pot
Hot pot, known in Chinese as “huo guo” or “fire pot,” is a staple of Beijing cuisine that both locals and visitors to this vibrant city enjoy. The hot pot experience generally involves a flavored broth in the center of a table heated by an open flame beneath. Ingredients are then added to the boiling broth to cook them – vegetables, meats, noodles, and dumplings are popular additions – and enjoyed by diners at the table with various dipping sauces.
The flavors used for hot pot vary from one restaurant to another. Sichuan mala (spicy and tingly) is especially popular, though many restaurants offer a variety of broths, including vegetable-based ones for vegetarians. Diners can also choose from various soup bases, such as pork bone broth or fish broth for seafood lovers. Similarly, there are plenty of options regarding what ingredients you add – from traditional Chinese favorites such as mushrooms and black fungus to international offerings like cheese-filled ravioli. Finally, don’t forget to choose the type of dipping sauces that best suit your tastes – usually, an array of spices will be provided, including garlic chili sauce, peanut sauce, and sesame paste.
In short hot pot makes for a unique culinary experience in Beijing and should not be missed while visiting this fascinating city!
Local Beer
China may not be well known for its beer-drinking culture, but Beijing has a growing craft beer scene. Many choices are available at the city’s bars and restaurants, ranging from IPAs to pilsners to strong dark lagers. The most popular international and domestic beers you can find in Beijing include Tsingtao(青島), Yanjing(燕京), Harbin (哈尔滨), and Snow (雪花).
Tsingtao is the best-known Chinese beer brand internationally, although it is considered too light for some Chinese taste buds. As a result, it is often served pre-mixed with soda at restaurants and bars. Yanjing Beer was founded in 1980 by the Beijing government to increase domestic consumption – it has succeeded in that respect, as it commands a 59% domestic market share. It’s also light in flavor and is famous for its low price point. Harbin Beer is slightly maltier than Tsingtao and Yanjing and can sometimes slightly resemble British lager due to its sweetness. Snow Beer, produced by CR Snow (the world’s largest brewing company by volume), has more heavily hopped flavors, making it a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts in China.
In addition to these traditional beers, some excellent craft breweries are popping up in Beijing. For example, great Leap Brewing combines recipes from American-style microbreweries with traditional Chinese flavors like Chrysanthemum Flower Ale brewed with jasmine rice; Slow Boat Brewery brews adventurous recipes like their White IPA; Jing A offers varieties including Yunnan Gold Ale made with locally-sourced ingredients; Arrow Factory Brewing creates lighter beers like their Pale Ale; Panda Brew, Strange Lot, Laboratorio Dragon Hops, Water Drop, Jing No Maidens Craft Beer Co., Mao Mao Chong Brewery, Split Bone Brew Pub are some of other small scale breweries producing exquisite ales with high-quality ingredients worth trying out if you ever visit Beijing!
Whether you’re an occasional or devoted connoisseur of craft beer – all these breweries have more than enough options on tap, so grab a frosty one and enjoy!