Beijing: Where Ancient History Meets Modern Marvels
Gallery Highlights
Beijing, the capital of China, effortlessly blends the grandeur of ancient dynasties with the dynamism of modern life. It’s home to world-famous historical sites like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, testaments to China’s rich imperial past. Here, you’ll find traditional courtyard homes in hutongs nestled alongside towering skyscrapers and bustling commercial districts. As China’s cultural heart, Beijing offers a wealth of experiences, from the captivating artistry of Peking Opera to the lively performances of crosstalk. And when it comes to food, Beijing tantalizes with unique delicacies like Peking Roast Duck, Poached Tripe, and Zhajiangmian, and its snack streets are a paradise for food lovers. A stroll through Beijing offers a unique opportunity to witness the city’s historical heritage and its vibrant contemporary spirit, a combination that draws visitors from around the globe.
Getting There
By Air
Beijing is served by two major international airports: Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport. You can find direct flights from many cities worldwide. To travel between the city center and the airports, convenient options include airport shuttle buses, taxis, or the subway.
By Train
China’s extensive railway network connects Beijing to other cities across the country, with both high-speed and regular trains. High-speed trains are a popular choice for long-distance travel, offering speed and comfort. Ticket prices vary by destination and class. For example, a second-class seat from Beijing to Shanghai costs approximately 550 yuan, while to Xi’an it’s around 515 yuan. Purchase tickets online via the official 12306 website (http://www.12306.cn/en) or at station ticket windows. High-speed tickets go on sale two weeks prior; booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons.
Getting Around
Subway/Bus
Beijing boasts a comprehensive subway network, making city navigation easy. For convenient travel on both subway and buses, consider using the Alipay transportation code. The bus system is also a good option; use map apps like Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps (both offer English interfaces) to plan routes.
Taxi/Ride-hailing
Taxis are readily available on the street. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps (such as Didi or Gaode Maps) to book a ride. Apps are generally recommended to avoid misunderstandings and help ensure direct routes. However, be aware that traffic congestion can be heavy during morning and evening rush hours.
Attractions
The Forbidden City (The Palace Museum)
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is the world’s largest and most complete ancient palace complex. It offers a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of China’s imperial past. Located at the heart of Beijing’s central axis, it served as the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties. Construction began in 1406 and was completed in 1420.
The Great Wall
The Great Wall is a world-renowned wonder and a symbol of China’s strength and resilience. Its history dates back to the Warring States Period. Sections within the Beijing municipality were part of the Qin Dynasty’s expansion. Today, the most visited sections, like Badaling and Mutianyu, are primarily remnants from the Ming Dynasty.
The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, initially named “Qingyi Garden” and built in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty, is a sprawling imperial garden. Situated at No. 19, Xinjian Gongmen Road, Haidian District, Beijing, it covers 3.009 square kilometers. Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake are its central features, blending natural beauty and imperial architecture. It’s one of China’s Four Great Gardens and a 1998 UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hutong Tour
Hutongs, Beijing’s traditional alleyways, are the city’s historical veins, preserving its rich history and culture. These narrow lanes, lined with siheyuan (traditional courtyard houses), began to take shape during the Yuan Dynasty. Architectural details like door piers and screen walls showcase traditional Chinese charm.
Peking Opera
Peking Opera is a cherished traditional art form embodying the essence of Chinese theatrical performance. It combines singing, recitation, acting, and martial arts, with elaborate costumes, distinctive facial makeup, and captivating performances. Its vast repertoire offers a fascinating glimpse into Chinese storytelling and artistry. Experience it at theaters like Mei Lanfang Grand Theatre or in traditional teahouses.
Food
Beijing’s cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:
Peking Duck
Peking Duck is arguably Beijing’s most famous culinary specialty, celebrated for its crispy skin and tender meat. Savor authentic duck at restaurants like Quanjude and Dadong. It’s traditionally served with thin pancakes, scallions, cucumbers, and sweet bean sauce (scallions are optional).
Zhajiangmian (Noodles with Soybean Paste)
Zhajiangmian is a classic noodle dish from old Beijing, featuring a rich meat sauce. Portions can be quite generous. (Note for those with gluten allergies)
Shuanyangrou (Instant-Boiled Mutton Hot Pot)
Shuanyangrou, or mutton hot pot, is a popular and warming dish, especially in winter. Some seasonings can be spicy; inform your server if sensitive. Travelers with dietary restrictions should note it features mutton.
Jiaoquan (Fried Dough Rings)
Jiaoquan are deep-fried dough rings, known for their crispy and fragrant texture and unique flavor. They are often enjoyed with Douzhi or sandwiched in a sesame seed cake.
Douzhi (Mung Bean Milk)
Douzhi is a unique Beijing snack with a pungent, sour smell that can be off-putting initially. Those who acquire the taste appreciate its lingering sour and fragrant flavor. Traditionally served with spicy pickled mustard tuber and Jiaoquan.
Lvdaogun (Rolling Donkey/Fried Chop Rice Cake)
Lvdagun gets its name from its preparation, resembling a donkey rolling in yellow dust. Made from yellow rice flour, soybean flour, and red bean paste, coated in soybean flour. Offers a delightful mix of bean flavor, sweet filling, and soft, sticky texture, enjoyed by all ages. (Note for those with bean and grain allergies)
Tanghulu (Candied Fruit on a Stick)
Tanghulu is a traditional snack of fruits (like hawthorns) skewered on bamboo sticks, coated in hardened sugar syrup. Offers a delicious sweet and sour taste. A common winter treat.
Chaogan (Fried Liver)
Chaogan is a flavorful Beijing dish featuring shiny, dark red soup, tender liver, and fatty intestines. It is rich without being greasy, and the soup has a thick but smooth consistency. Main ingredients are pig liver and large intestine. Typically eaten with steamed buns, often slurped from the bowl’s edge.
Baodu (Quick-Boiled Tripe)
Baodu features quick-boiled beef or mutton tripe, prepared in shreds or leaves. Results in a crispy, tender texture melting in your mouth. Served with fragrant sesame paste for a rich flavor. Proper cooking time is key for texture.
Wandouhuang (Pea Flour Cake)
Wandouhuang is a traditional Beijing snack with a light yellow color, delicate, smooth appearance, and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Provides a cool, refreshing sensation with rich pea fragrance. Popular in summer.
Stay
Wangfujing Area
Staying here puts you in the city’s heart, convenient for transport, shopping, and attractions like the Palace Museum. Prices are higher, but options range from luxury (Waldorf Astoria) to budget (Hanting Hotel).
Qianmen Area
Offers old Beijing charm with hutongs and snack streets. Good selection of characteristic homestays at moderate prices, near Tiananmen Square.
Near Subway Stations
Staying near subway stations, especially Line 2, provides excellent connectivity. Chain hotels like Home Inn and 7 Days Inn offer budget-friendly options with good value.
Weather
| Season | Temperature | Conditions | Clothing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring & Autumn (Mar-May, Sep-Nov) | Comfortable | Ideal for sightseeing | Long-sleeved shirts, light jackets. |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Hot | Rainy, humid | Light, breathable clothes, shorts, shirts, rain gear. Light jacket for AC. |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cold | Dry | Thick down jackets, sweaters, thermals, scarves, hats, gloves. Layer up for wind. |
Must Do
- Explore the Forbidden City (Palace Museum): Immerse yourself in China’s imperial past.
- Walk along the Great Wall (Badaling or Mutianyu): Experience the awe-inspiring scale of this ancient wonder.
- Visit the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube: Marvel at the iconic venues of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, especially beautiful when illuminated at night.
- Tour Peking University or Tsinghua University: Get a feel for the academic atmosphere of China’s top universities (advance reservations usually required via official websites or WeChat accounts).
- Savor Authentic Peking Roast Duck: Indulge in Beijing’s signature dish at a renowned restaurant.
- Relax in a Hutong Teahouse: Enjoy a cup of tea and soak up the traditional ambiance of old Beijing.
- Attend a Peking Opera Performance: Discover the beauty and artistry of this traditional Chinese theatrical form.
Itineraries
2-Day Imperial Highlights
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning: Arrive, check into your hotel near Tiananmen Square. Visit Tiananmen Square (Monument to the People’s Heroes, Great Hall of the People optional). Afternoon: Explore the Forbidden City (central axis, side palaces). Exit via Gate of Divine Might, visit Jingshan Park for panoramic view. Evening: Dinner near Wangfujing Street, stroll and sample snacks (baozi, jiaozi, tanghulu). |
| Day 2 | Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven (sacrificial halls, gardens). Afternoon: Explore Nanluoguxiang hutong area (courtyard houses, cafes, shops). Head to airport/train station for departure. |
3-Day Imperial Explore
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning: Arrive, check into your hotel. Visit the Forbidden City (central axis). Afternoon: Continue Forbidden City exploration (side palaces). Exit via Gate of Divine Might, visit Jingshan Park for view. Evening: Dinner near Wangfujing Street, walk along the street (food, shopping). |
| Day 2 | Morning: Travel to Badaling Great Wall (bus/car). Walk along the wall. Afternoon: Visit the Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb). Evening: Return to city, dinner in Huogongdian area (Beijing-style hot pot). |
| Day 3 | Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven. Afternoon: Explore hutongs (rickshaw ride optional in Nanluoguxiang). Early dinner at hutong restaurant. Evening: Head to airport/train station for departure. |
4-Day Beijing Experience
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning: Arrive, check in. Visit Tiananmen Square (Monument, Great Hall, Museum optional). Afternoon: Explore the Forbidden City (central axis, side palaces). Exit via Gate of Divine Might, visit Jingshan Park. Evening: Dinner near Wangfujing Street, enjoy street food and shopping. |
| Day 2 | Morning: Travel to Badaling Great Wall. Walk along the wall, views. Afternoon: Visit the Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb), learn burial culture. Evening: Return to city, hot pot dinner in Huogongdian area. |
| Day 3 | Morning: Visit the Summer Palace (Long Corridor, Marble Boat, lakes, palaces). Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Heaven (architecture, gardens). Evening: Dinner near Temple of Heaven, explore nearby area. |
| Day 4 | Morning: Explore Beijing hutongs (rickshaw ride optional in Nanluoguxiang or other areas). Lunch at hutong restaurant. Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or relax. Head to airport/train station for departure. |
4-Day Modern & History
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Morning: Arrive, check in. Visit Tiananmen Square (Monument, Great Hall). Afternoon: Explore the Forbidden City (palaces, relics). Exit via Gate of Divine Might, consider Jingshan Park. Evening: Dinner at Wangfujing Street (commercial atmosphere). |
| Day 2 | Morning: Visit Bird’s Nest and Water Cube (architecture, 2008 Olympics). China Science and Technology Museum optional. Afternoon: Subway to Summer Palace (scenery, Long Corridor, Marble Boat). Evening: Dinner near Summer Palace, return to hotel. |
| Day 3 | Morning: Travel to Mutianyu Great Wall (bus/car). Hike or take cable car up and down to enjoy the beautiful and less crowded view. Afternoon: Lunch at local farmhouse, return to city. Evening: Enjoy Peking duck dinner at Quanjude or Da Dong. |
| Day 4 | Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven (history, architecture, gardens). Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or relax. Head to airport/train station. |
