Beijing City Guide As one of four ancient cities in China, Beijing is one of the country's best preserved locations. With a history spanning 3,000 years, Beijing is currently home to over 11 million people, ancient temples and ...
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As one of four ancient cities in China, Beijing is one of the country's best preserved locations. With a history spanning 3,000 years, Beijing is currently home to over 11 million people, ancient temples and pagodas that mingle with modern day architecture and skyscrapers. Serving as China’s capital city on and off for the past 700 years and as the location of the 2008 Olympic Games, Beijing is sure to sweep you off your feet.
Tiananmen Square
When visiting Beijing it’s hard to skip out on the great Tiananmen Square, the world’s fourth largest at that. Get there early (before sunrise) to watch the flag being raised or later to visit the National Museum. The square, a pedestrian only zone, carries the energy of many protests of years gone past, including the 1988 tragic protests by University students who were shot.
Forbidden City
Just north of Tiananmen Square is the Forbidden City; a collection of preserved ancient buildings and squares. Built with the blood, sweat and tears of 1 million people, the Forbidden City has been home to 24 emperors throughout the centuries. While in the past entrance was only allowed with the emperor’s permission, today the ancient site is open to all for a small entrance fee. You can take in views of the palace and observatory complemented by an audio tour. This is of course if the numerous ‘art students’ and tour guides pestering you outside the gates don’t get your business first.
The Great Wall
It’s claimed that the 8th world wonder is so great it’s visible from space. Regardless if this is true, this magnificent wall made over 2,000 years ago, snakes 13,170.69 miles across the country. The serpent-like wall sweeps through deserts, mountains and breathtaking greenery, making it the ultimate tourist attraction in China. Badaling, located 70km northwest of Beijing is the most accessible and safest section of the wall. Get there early to avoid crowds!
Temples
Made over 500 years ago, the Temple of Heaven beckons with its wooden construction of mystical design. For years, emperors prayed for guidance and harvest in what is today one of Beijing’s holiest place of worship. This UNESCO recognized World Heritage site makes a great spot to take a Tai Chi class.
If you have time to see just one temple during your visit, then make sure it’s Lama Temple. This Tibetan Buddhist temple is an active place of worship, with pilgrims coming from near and far. Here you can marvel the statues, tapestries and prayer wheels while floating in a mist of incense.
Food and Culture
The best way to experience the flavors of Beijing is to get off the beaten track. Dong Cheng District is the place to be for some of the craziest street foods you could ever eat. Head over to Qianmen Street and let yourself be overwhelmed by the smells and sheer density of the area. Snack on anything from octopus to lamb and from shark to snake, all on a stick. Feast on dumplings and savoury crepes prepared with classic Asian spices or unusual tastes like bean juice. Whatever you eat, no trip to Beijing will be complete without an order of roast duck.
Looking to snap up souvenirs and other trinkets? Polish your haggling skills at the Panjiayuan flea market where you can find everything from antiques to various arts and crafts. There’s no better place to pick up a Buddha head or get some clothes tailored before you return home. Save your visit for the weekend as not every stall opens on weekdays.
Get Around
The best means of transport in Beijing is the subway. Grab yourself a travel card on arrival and let the subway whisk you to all the major tourist attractions in the city. It’s not only cheap, it’s cleaner and more comfortable than taking a bus. Taxis are widely available and are just as affordable, but good luck trying to find a driver who speaks English! While taking a taxi is an adventure and a half, you’re better off sticking to the subway when rush hour hits.
Health and Safety
Road safety will be your greatest concern in Beijing. Crossing roads will be a nightmare and dangerous, even at zebra crossings. Air quality is also not the best and you may find yourself sporting a sore throat or even what is called a ‘Beijing Cough’. You’ll soon understand why many locals walk around wearing face masks.
When to Go
The best time to visit Beijing is between September and November, when autumn kicks in, or from March to May. Summers are usually hot and humid, while winters are cold and snow has been known to fall. Avoid visiting during national holidays as not everything will be open and the city will be crowded with national tourists.
Sleep
Whenever you decide to go, make sure you secure yourself a place to stay by browsing through our listing of vacation accommodation apartments and rentals in Beijing.