travel around beijing

Getting around in Beijing

Feb 24, 2024 • 5 min read

It may seem daunting, but getting around Beijing is a breeze © Blackstation / Getty Images

With a population just shy of 22 million (and fast-rising), one can be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed by the idea of navigating a city the size of Beijing .

There's the sheer magnitude and chaos of it all, but the language barrier can also make it tricky for non-Chinese speakers in finding their way from A to B. But rest assured, not only is Beijing a safe city, but it's tourist-friendly too.

Here you'll find plenty of signage to go with a fast, cheap and efficient transport system that makes getting around a breeze. Read on for our best tips for finding your way around this behemoth of a city. 

Walk Beijing

Beijing is a vast, sprawling city, so it's not somewhere you'd necessarily describe as imminently walkable. That said, some of the more central areas of Beijing are made for walking and offer a priceless opportunity to engage in everyday local life. Getting lost among the hutong's labyrinth of alleyways is a quintessential Beijing experience, for example; for a deeper dive, sign up for a half-day walking tour with a reputable travel outfit such as Bespoke Travel Co .

Top Tip: Given Google Maps is blocked in China, Apple's Maps is a more accessible and accurate option for navigating Beijing's streets.

Travel by subway

Whether speeding in from the airport or taking short jaunts across town, Beijing's modern subway is both a fast and convenient means of getting about. Comprising 27 lines, it's the world's second-largest subway (behind Shanghai), and links up with all of Beijing's premier attractions, as well as both of its airports. 

Fares range from ¥3 to ¥8, depending on distance, so it's cheap as well. It's the world's busiest subway, so expect things to get crowded (especially during morning and evening peak-hour rush), and also bear in mind that traversing Beijing's subway can involve a fair bit of walking – and even more so if you choose the wrong exit! Trains run approximately 5am to 11pm.

Top Tip: The subway website has a trip planner, and there are also several apps with a useful, interactive subway map.

Bicycle the big city

With its expansive network of dedicated bike lanes and flat roads, Beijing is a great city to explore on two wheels. Its bike culture stems from decades gone by, when it was known as "the Bicycle Kingdom" – a time when cyclists took to the streets en masse in Mao suits rather than Lycra, just prior to cars and subway becoming the predominant modes of travel. Now we're seeing a new wave of cyclists hit the streets, a trend brought on by the rise of bike-sharing schemes combined with surging petrol prices and subway shutdowns during Covid.

Dockless bike-share apps come and go, but current options include Didi Bike , Hellobike and Meituan. Expect to pay around ¥1.5 to ¥2 per 30 minutes. To hire one, you'll need a smartphone with a local SIM to download the app (only available in Chinese), and then you'll need to register using your passport, as well as either WeChat or Alipay for payment. If you have difficulties, staff at your hotel or hostel can assist, or help you find a bike elsewhere. 

Top Tip: Be sure to check brakes, pedals and seats before choosing your bike, and always wear a helmet. 

Take a taxi and rideshare

Those preferring the comfort and convenience of taxis or rideshare apps will be pleased to hear that it's a pretty affordable option in Beijing. However, the drawbacks are that you'll have to put up with Beijing's notorious traffic, and good luck trying to find one if it's raining!

Didi is the local version of Uber – slightly cheaper than taxis and very handy if you have a smartphone with data.

The fixed fare for taxis is ¥13 for the first 3km and ¥2.3 per kilometer after that; rates are slightly higher after 11pm. Be sure they use the meter; otherwise, find another taxi. A taxi to the airport will cost ¥90 to ¥140 to the city center (40 minutes to one hour), and is about ¥200 to Daxing Airport for the one-hour ride.

Top Tip: For non-Chinese speakers, it's best to bring the name and address of your destination in Chinese characters, and likewise your hotel's business card to find your way home again.

Hop on a bus

Buses are a good option, both for those who like their experiences distinctly local and those who prefer to be able to actually see the city – unlike when traveling on the subway. It's cheap (¥2; half price with travel card) and foreigner friendly with multilingual announcements and signs, but it's a slower, more challenging option in working out where you're going. Buses also run to both of Beijing's airports. 

Top Tip: Beijing's sightseeing buses (1 and 2; colored brown) do clockwise circuits of the Forbidden City , looping south to Qiánmén via Tian'anmen Square and the Temple of Heaven (¥15 per ride, ¥10 with a travel card).

Opt for a driver and a car 

International driving permits aren't recognized in China, which pretty much rules out car rentals for most foreign tourists.

Top Tip: Hiring a car with driver or taxi for the day is about the same price as renting a car and a good option for those wanting to do day trips to the Great Wall  or elsewhere in Beijing.

Ride in a rickshaw

Other means of getting around Beijing are more touristy, like the rickshaws that'll zip you around Houhai Lakes and the surrounding hutong (one hour per person ¥100). You'll also find petrol- or battery-powered rickshaws that hang around major tourist sights and nightlife spots looking for fares, but they're more expensive than taxis.

Travel passes

If you're using public transport, Beijing's travel card (deposit ¥20) is an essential purchase, available at any of the subway stations or larger bus stations. You can recharge them at most (but not all) subway stations and bus station ticket kiosks.

Accessible transport in Beijing

Like everywhere in the world, things are always improving for travelers with disabilities in Beijing, but there's still a long way to go. Though many sights have ramps and subways stations have level-access platforms and elevators or stair lifts inside – especially following both the 2008 and 2022 Paralympic Games – not all are fully accessible. An increasing number of Beijing city buses are wheelchair-accessible with a ramp provided at the rear door, but otherwise, taxis will be your best way of getting around.

For free downloads, including a phrasebook and a general guide to online resources, visit Lonely Planet's Accessible Travel portal .

This article was first published Oct 24, 2022 and updated Feb 24, 2024.

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A Perfect Beijing Itinerary For First Timers 2023

Beijing is a fantastic city – full of traditional culture and history, loaded with modern lifestyles and technology. Whether you’re making the most of your visa-free transit period or you’re looking to spend a considerable amount of time here, this jam-packed Beijing itinerary will introduce you to China’s crazy capital!

Banner Title

Necessary Spacing

Here’s our top 5-day itinerary that covers the best things in the city. Pick and choose the activities if you haven’t got that much time!

• Day 1: Visit Qian’man Street for shopping, then explore Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City with an official guide
• Day 2: Wander around the Summer Palace and take a hutong tour (or you can choose a food/beer tour instead too! )
• Day 3: Hike the Great Wall – so many options but the best all-round section is Mutianyu
• Day 4: Visit the famous Olympic Park and the edgy 798 Art District
• Day 5: Pick up some beautiful antiques at Panjiayuan Market then go bar hopping in Sanlitun

Travelling to Beijing

Travelling to China is not something many people even consider unless they have a layover there. Even then, a lot of people decide to stay in their airport hotel and escape as quickly as they can.

There are plenty of great layover tours specifically designed for a quick visit but if you do have more time, then this is the post you need to fully explore the city!

It’s not surprising that not everyone wants to visit – exploring a huge country like China can be daunting as it’s not as tourist-friendly as many other cities in Asia! The language barrier, the local food and the complex culture can seem like great reasons to avoid China, but honestly, it’s such a fun place to travel.

Beijing is especially interesting because of its history dating back literally thousands of years. Plus, there’s the Great Wall! No, you can’t see it from space but why would you need to when you can climb it yourself?

We spent four years living in Beijing (we were teaching English !) but we still didn’t see everything that the city has to offer. We did, however, create and follow this exact Beijing travel itinerary as if we were newbies so that it would be easy for readers like you to use.

Of course, Beijing isn’t the only place to see in China , but it’s a great place to start if you only have a limited time in the country!

One day in the city definitely isn’t enough, so we have put together a 3 day Beijing itinerary to see all of the best sights and activities. We’ve also added in more things to do in Beijing if you’re staying for more than three days!

Hopefully, you’ll get to see all the beautiful places with this Beijing itinerary – check out this complete guide before you go to make sure you’re prepared and download these apps to make your Chinese trip easier!

I’ve added options for people who like to explore without a guide, and for those who would prefer to book a tour too! There are benefits to both so keep an eye out for the activities that you might not normally think of doing, with or without a guide!

1 – 3 Day Beijing Itinerary

Historical landmarks tours + walking streets.

Fresh off the aeroplane, you’ll want to stretch your legs and take a leisurely walking tour through Qian’men. Start at the subway station, walk south through the central Beijing hutongs and through the famous Dashilan Commercial Street.

You can book tickets for a walking tour here , so you can learn about the history of this part of the city.

Here you can purchase anything China-related, so this is the time to pick up gifts for those back home. The prices here are mostly non-negotiable, however, they are also some of the most reasonable in the whole city. The cost of living in Beijing is low, so if you’re here as a tourist then you can find some great bargains!

At the end of the road, you will find yourself at Qian’men Street, the central road leading back towards Tian’anmen Square. Walk north towards the Qian’mem gatehouse and pass directly underneath.

Across the road will be Mao’s Mausoleum. Here you can go inside and see the preserved body of the revered leader. Regardless of what he did in life, this is definitely a unique experience.

On the other side of the mausoleum is the infamous Tian’anmen Square. It truly is a massive open area. On the right is the museum of China and in the middle is the memorial to all the fallen soldiers in World War 2. At the far end of the square is the imposing entrance to the Forbidden City. This is the first time you will understand the sheer scale of the palace.

Upon entry just follow the crowds to the ticket offices inside the Meridian gate. You really can get lost inside this palace so have a good look around. If you are happy to explore by yourself, buy your tickets here . You can also use a self-guided audio tour like this .

You could easily spend 3 to 4 hours wandering around, peeking in random doors or gardens you might stumble across. There’s a lot of fascinating history and culture to learn about so don’t rush yourself. Keep going north through the whole palace and you’ll eventually get to the North Exit, which is also called the Gate of Divine Prowess.

You can also join a small group tour – you won’t be hassled to buy tickets or pushed into tea scams if you’re with a guide so it’s not a bad idea! Click here to book your space.

In front of you is a very out a place hill inside of Jingshan park.

It’s very cheap to get inside, and after walking to the top of the hill you get a spectacular view over the top of the Forbidden City you have just walked through. Hopefully, you get a low pollution day and get some nice photos, unlike we did!

It is very difficult to put a time on this first day. Some people might walk straight through all of the areas and it takes 3 or so hours.

If you decide to go into every attraction, do some shopping, see the museum and really get a feel for the places it could easily take 7-8 hours! Take this day at your own pace and enjoy soaking it all in!

A fantastic way to end your first day in Beijing is to eat at a Peking duck restaurant. The most famous is Quanjude and you’ll find branches all over the city. Eating Peking duck is quite a theatrical affair – the chef will wheel the food out on a trolley and carve it before you.

There will be lots of different dishes brought to your table for you to try too, as well as the traditional accompaniments for your main meal.

Summer Palace

To get to the famous Summer Palace, you can jump onto a boat and take an Imperial Waterway Cruise from the Beijing Exhibition Centre and take in the views from the water. The ride takes you past the zoo but I wouldn’t recommend visiting as the animals are treated terribly.

The Summer Palace is absolutely beautiful all year round and is very big. I would advise taking some food for a picnic if the weather permits.

Explore with a guide if you are interested in finding out all about this World UNESCO site or just buy your tickets to the park in advance here and visit by yourself.

Hutong Tour

The hutongs in Beijing are full of hidden gems and interesting people. Hutongs are residential areas that consist of narrow lanes, with the houses being built in a courtyard fashion.

However, there are also shops and restaurants scattered throughout Beijing’s hutongs, and they are really fun to explore. Some have become more famous than others, such as Nanluoguxiang, Skewed Tobacco Pouch Street (Yandai Xiejie) and Wudaoying.

Pre-book a hutong tour and you’ll be taken to the most popular places. If you’re on a strict time schedule, then that might be the best idea as you’ll be driven around and there won’t be any time wasted wandering down some weird alley and into someone’s kitchen.

However, if you have more time, then you could definitely spend a day wandering up and down yourself, getting lost and finding cool spots that aren’t overcrowded yet.

We recommend starting in Nanlouguxiang, walking up to Houhai Lakes and passing through Yandai Xiejie. Then, get on a subway up to Andingmen station and see Wudaoyaing. You can then take a look at the Lama Temple if you fancy.

You’ll find countless rooftop bars, posh restaurants, local street vendors and much more to entertain yourself for the whole day. You certainly won’t go hungry and with plenty of cocktail happy hours to be found, you’re also likely to get fairly drunk!

Hike the Great Wall of China

You absolutely cannot appreciate a Beijing itinerary without visiting the Great Wall! It’s an astounding piece of defensive architecture, and the photos don’t do its vastness justice.

You’ve got a couple of options of where to go on the Wall as it is actually over 13,000 miles long! Clearly, you won’t be hiking the whole thing but you’ll need to choose the best section for your preferred type of day trip.

The four most popular hiking routes are listed below. Each section of the Great Wall is different, whether that’s because of the facilities, difficulty or scenery. Take a look at the comparison table below to work out which is the best part for you to visit.

When you visit the Great Wall, make sure that you take plenty of water with you. The vendors will charge you around 5 times more than the price should be because they know that you’ll need to stay hydrated!

Visiting Badaling Great Wall

If you’re looking for a relatively easy hike to a popular section of the wall, then go to the very well known and one of the most well-restored sections, Badaling. You’re almost guaranteed to be surrounded by tourists (mostly local as this section is popular with Chinese people).

You might feel safer around other people so Badaling is a great place to go if you want to mingle with others on your hike.

Book a tour here for a full-day tour including lunch.

If you’re planning to visit the Wall alone, make your way to subway line 2 and travel to Jishuitan Station and take the short walk to Deshengmen bus station. I would advise using a map app on your phone so you can find the Deshengmen bus station from the subway as it is a 10-minute walk.

Then find bus 877, which will be obvious because of the queues of people. I have read that there are many fake 877 busses en route to the bus station. If there is someone trying to convince you to get on the bus then it is almost certainly a fake – just follow the signs and people, or ask someone wearing an official uniform!

Bus Timetable:

The bus costs around 12RMB (£1.35/$1.80).

Alternatively, you can take the train from Huangtudian Railway Station straight to Badaling Railway Station. It takes roughly the same amount of time as the bus and will cost you 7 RMB. To get to the station take subway line 8 or 13 and get off at Huoying. The train station is roughly 100m away if you leave from Exit G4.

At Badaling, there is a cable car that you can ride up to the top to take in the scenic views, as well as a pulley ride that you can experience for an added fee. 

There are plenty of restaurants and shops but these are unsurprisingly overpriced.

For those of you who prefer to learn about the history of this section from a local guide, then join a tour like this.

Visiting Mutianyu Great Wall

Mutianyu is essentially the best all-round section of the Great Wall. It is beautifully restored, there are fewer people and there are a few restaurants around the entrance if you forget to bring your own food. There’s even a toboggan which I think is the best way to descend the Great Wall!

This excellent tour to Mutianyu has almost 1000 5-star reviews, so it’s a great one to choose if you don’t want to make your way to the Wall alone!

It’s a little bit more difficult to get the Mutianyu independently because there isn’t a direct public bus, but it’s definitely doable. You can also buy return coach transfer tickets here in advance – you just need to turn up at the meeting point and get on the bus.

You’ll need to get to Dongzhimen subway station first (via line 2, 13 or the Airport Express). The subway and the bus station are in the same huge building, so find the Bus Transfer Hall and you’ll need to get on bus 916 Express.

It will cost you 12 RMB and should take just over an hour. You can pay cash or use your transportation card.

You need to get off the bus at Huai Rou Bei Da Jie (it’s the 15th stop). The bus will announce the destination in English but most people will get off here anyway.

You can then get a local bus (H23)  from Mutianyu Roundabout and then walk to the ticket centre, or choose to take a taxi. Be careful of the scammers – only take a metered cab. It should cost around 40 RMB for a taxi and 3RMB for the bus. For super detailed instructions on taking this second local bus, take a look at this website .

There are also cable cars here at Mutianyu, and it’s the most wheelchair-friendly section.

If you’re travelling to Beijing with kids then we recommend choosing Mutianyu to hike, as it’s not too difficult and it’s the safest due to the high-quality restoration. The toboggan, or luge, is also really fun and isn’t too fast or scary.

If you’d prefer to take a guided tour to this part of the Wall, then click here to find out more and book your spot.

Visiting Simatai Great Wall

You should visit Simatai if you want to explore the Great Wall at night time. There are official tours and it’s well lit, meaning that it’s much safer than scaling a random part of the wall alone!

This part of the wall is also not very restored so it is very much unchanged since the time of being built. It’s pretty wild and steep in places though so you can actually take a cable car up if you’d prefer.

You can also only climb this part of the wall if you buy a reserved ticket here . Book at least 10 days in advance so that you’re guaranteed a space. You can also wander around Gubei Water Town as this part of the Wall is right next to it.

There are a few food vendors on the wall but I wouldn’t recommend relying on them for a full cheap meal. Bring your own or, if you’re going into the town then you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving food there.

To get to Simatai, make your way to Dongzhimen Subway station, which can be accessed via lines 2 and 13. You can then take the tourist bus or a local bus. It takes around 2 hours and the tourist bus times are as follows:

The local bus is 980 but you’ll have to transfer onto bus 51 at some point, and the bus station can be difficult to find. For in-depth instructions, if you really want to take this bus, use this website .

Visiting Jiankou Great Wall

If you are looking for a more authentic and wild Great Wall hiking experience, then visit Jiankou. There are no food vendors and definitely no cable cars here!

This tour is a great option if you want to see the wilder parts of the Great Wall without it being dangerous!

Camping on this part of the Wall would be an adventure, but be prepared for some tough climbing ahead! You’ll also have to pay between 5 – 10 RMB to the local villagers to start this hike.

There are small villages surrounding Jiankou where you can find food but most definitely take your own just in case. I wouldn’t recommend hiking this part in hot weather as you’d need to carry so much water and you don’t want to be running out!

You can also hike from Jiankou to Mutianyu , or vice versa, and that will roughly take around 4 – 5 hours as you’ll be covering a distance of 6 miles (10km).

Unsurprisingly, there are no direct buses to Jiankou. You can take a bus from Dongzhimen Station, and then take a local bus to one of the small villages.

Or, you could hire a driver to take you to the village. That way, you are guaranteed a quick and easy return journey to Beijing. Not only that but someone local also knows where you are so if you get into any trouble they could send for help!

Here are the bus times from Dongzhimen:

Once you’re in Yujiayuan, you have two choices. You can pick which village you want to start your hike from. Getting from Xizhazi Village to the actual Wall only takes around half an hour, so many people pick that option.

However, getting a taxi from Yujiayuan station to the village will cost approximately 120RMB. If you would rather have a cheaper taxi ride, go to Wofo Mountain Villa. There are more restaurants and accommodation options here, and it will cost you around 65RMB to get there from the station.

All of the prices of public buses will be 50% cheaper if you use a Beijing Transportation Card, which we do recommend. They’re easy to get form any subway station with a booth. You have to add a 20RMB refundable deposit and then you’re good to go. It makes getting around the city super easy as you can use it for the subway too (although the price won’t change on the trains).

5 Day Beijing Itinerary

If you’ve got more time in the city or you want to skip a few of our suggestions because you’ve already done them, we’ve added in two extra days of activities for you. As you can now get 6 days visa-free in Beijing, this is a perfect amount of time to give you a day of recovering from the flight!

A 5 day Beijing itinerary allows more time to explore local attractions and either find new restaurants or return to those that you’ve already enjoyed! You could even take a couple of day trips from Beijing.

Temple of Heaven

Travel down to Tiantan East Gate station on subway Line 5 to reach the Temple of Heaven. This is another famous and very large temple complex that is beautiful to have a walk around.

You can buy your admission ticket in advance here if you’re travelling in the high season.

798 Art District 

If you’re into art, this is the place to be. In fact, even if you’re not into art, this area is a really interesting part of the city and we would highly recommend taking a visit. You’ll find galleries, museums, quirky shops, tattoo studios, art exhibitions and more here.

Walking around with a guide is great fun because they’ll be able to find the most unique places!

It’s best to get the subway (Wangjing South on Line 14) and then hail a taxi to the actual district, as there’s no direct public transport there.

You could spend at least a few hours wandering around the exhibitions and studios. There are bars and restaurants too but most will close around 6ish to be prepared to eat before then or wait until you get back into the city centre.

Olympic Park

The famous Olympic park, built for the 2008 games, has some great architectural structures to marvel at. You’ll find the Bird’s Nest, the Water Cube (particularly impressive at night time), as well as the Forest Park.

You can spend a few hours here, as there is 2.6 square miles of land and water to explore! There are two gardens – the Northern and the Southern – that you can enjoy. Hire a bike, take a small boat cruise or even get some tennis lessons with a training partner!

Get here by jumping on Line 8 on the subway, and get off at the Olympic Sports Centre, or South Gate of Forest Park. Or, take a walking tour like this one.

Panjiayuan Antique Market

Plenty of people visit markets in Beijing and find cheap fake goods or tacky souvenirs. If you want something a little more special, then go to Panjiayuan Market. This is where you’ll find the locals, and you can buy some incredible artwork and locally made crafts.

If you don’t speak Chinese, or this is your first time in China, you might find it a little overwhelming in the market! You can take a shopping tour with a guide to help you navigate the language barrier and stop people trying to rip you off just because you’re a tourist!

There are artists painting simple pieces that you can buy there and then, and there are also beautifully hand-woven embroidery pieces too.  

Of course, not everything is unique, and there will some items that are extremely highly-priced but there is room for a little haggling, especially if you’re buying more than one item from a vendor.

However, only haggle if you don’t think the item is worth what you are paying. So many times I have seen people haggle for pennies and it can be insulting. Of course, do it if you feel you are being ripped off but don’t be rude!

There are a couple of food stalls in and around the market where you can buy cheap and tasty rice meals. Panjiayuan Antique Market is open every day from 8.30am – 6pm during the week,and from 4am – 6pm on weekends.

However, only the permanent shops are open on weekdays, and the market stalls are only open on the weekends.

To get to the market, get to Panjiayuan Subway Station on line 10 and leave via Exit B.

If you’re here to party and shop for western brands, then Sanlitun is where you need to go. This area has heaps of bars, restaurants and shops that wouldn’t look out of place in London.

You’ll usually pay higher prices around here, but if you’re looking for something particular then you can’t complain.

You’ll easily find H&M, Nike, Adidas , Mac and the Apple Store. There’s also an abundance of foreign food – pizza places, Mexican restaurants, cocktail bars and more.

Sanlitun is not the place to go if you want to experience local and traditional Chinese culture, but it’s definitely worth a visit.

The closest subway station is Tuanjiehu on line 10 – use Exit A and turn right at the crossroads. The swarms of foreigners will guide you to where the action is happening!

Alternatively, take Exit D and follow the same road in the same direction – you’ll find more hidden restaurants and bars to hang out in.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Beijing?

Planning your Beijing itinerary involves a few careful considerations because the timing of your visit could really make or break your whole experience!

The first thing that I advise you to do is to AVOID CHINESE NEW YEAR! Before you do any kind of research, find out when the Chinese New Year falls and scratch it out on your calendar.

Not only are flights hideously more expensive around this time, Beijing pretty much shuts down because the locals go to their hometowns to visit their families. China travel is near impossible during the new year.

Yes, there will be fewer crowds, but that’s mainly because they wouldn’t be able to eat at any restaurants! There are also a lot of extremely loud firecrackers being let off across the city for over a week, so that could get annoying!

Another time to definitely avoid Beijing is National Week. Unlike Chinese New Year, it falls at the same time every year so you have no excuse to get it wrong!

National Day is the 1st October and is a public holiday across China. People celebrate the founding of The People’s Republic Of China on that day, and the 6 days following it.

This time though, Beijing gets an influx of domestic tourists because it’s the capital and there are so many links to the country’s history there. Lines for attractions will be extra-long and it’s almost impossible to get a train ticket during this time.

Basically, try to avoid any public holiday in China because you’ll have an experience that is not a true reflection of the country.

Visiting Beijing in winter is also not ideal. During the winter, temperatures regularly fall below -5° Celsius (23°F). The coldest day we saw was during January and it was -17° Celsius but luckily we were travelling south to Thailand that day!

It rarely snows during the colder months as the air is so dry, but you might see some flurries.

The worst thing about Beijing in winter is the pollution and the air quality. There will be days that you are advised not to go out and the air will be a gross yellowy-brown. Other times, you’ll see perfect blue skies and the air will be crisp.

However, airfare and hotel prices will be cheaper so that’s something to think about when planning your Beijing itinerary.

The summer in Beijing is hot and sticky. There are some outdoor pools to cool off in, and some gorgeous parks to picnic in, however, so summer is still an okay time to visit Beijing. Be prepared for intense thunderstorms though!

Spring and autumn are the perfect times to visit Beijing because the temperatures are not too warm and not too cold. The air is clear and you’ll experience fewer thunderstorms.

What To Pack For A 3 day Beijing Itinerary

You should be able to buy any clothes and toiletries that you need whilst you’re in Beijing, so don’t overpack. However, as you’ve already read, the seasons can vary drastically so your packing list will differ depending on the time of year that you choose to come.

Our Top Pick

Travel Camera

Panasonic LUMIX ZS70K

*See the full guide to this beauty right here!*

If you don’t have a camera then I HIGHLY recommend the Panasonic Lumix ZS70K . It is an affordable point-and-shoot camera that can be picked up and used by anyone of any ability. The camera captures gorgeous images and surprisingly excellent video whilst fitting in your pocket. The main difference between this and your phone’s camera is that it also has an incredible optical zoom so you won’t miss any of the shots you need to take. Check it out here.

Hand Luggage

Wrangler 20″

People can go WAY overboard when buying hand luggage when you really don’t need to spend a lot of money. We recommend going for something sturdy and affordable like the Wrangler 20″ . It’s exactly what you would expect from hand luggage but also comes with a neat charging trick. If you have a power bank, you can connect the power bank from inside the case and charge your phone from a port on the outside! Check it out on amazon here.

Osprey Arcane

For city exploring and shorter hikes, you’ll need a decent day pack. We recommend one like Osprey’s Arcane , as not only can it hold a 15″ laptop, water bottle and everything else you would need day to day but it is also incredibly stylish (we think). We have used Osprey for loads of different bags over the years and they have all been perfect. Check out the Osprey Arcane on Amazon here.

Multi Adapter

EPIKA Worldwide

If you’re worried about powering your devices on your trip then the simple solution is to take this EPIKA worldwide travel adapter. We have used it all over the world and it has worked flawlessly. Being able to charge up to 5 devices by USB (4 USB-A’s + 1 USB-C) plus a full power outlet socket is incredibly useful and works as an all-in-one solution. Check it out on Amazon here.

Menstrual Cup

We all know that tampons and pads are bad for the environment (not to mention uncomfortable and expensive!) so get yourself familiar with a reliable menstrual cup, like this one from Sirona . These can be reused for up to 15 years – think of the money and plastic waste you’ll save! Made from medical-grade silicone, Sirona’s cup is designed for comfort, sustainability and protection. Click here to choose the right size for you.

Anker 10,000mAh

If you’re worried about your devices losing power throughout the day then we recommend the Anker 10,000mAh power bank . Anker actually makes quite a few power banks but this one comes with a USB-C and USB-A port which means that you’ll be able to charge any of your devices regardless of connection. The 10,000mAh capacity is enough to completely charge an iPhone 12 twice so you should be good for a number of days with this beast. Have a look at the price here.

For a comprehensive breakdown of this list go to our budget savvy packing list guide .

If you are exploring this Beijing itinerary during the winter, you’ll need a few extras too. It also might mean that you pack a few more layers so you might need a bigger bag.

Looking at the average temperatures in Beijing in winter, then a warm coat is definitely something you’ll need! If you’re travelling from southeast Asia then this is going to be a difficult item to keep with you. However, I really don’t recommend going to northern China without one, so perhaps you could use vacuum pack bags like these to save space in your luggage.

If you are buying a new winter coat, choose one that is water and windproof, like this warm ski jacket.

Onto the dreaded pollution masks! They look ridiculous, they mess up your make-up (or so I’m told!) and they aren’t the most comfortable item you’ll ever buy. However, if you wear a pollution mask for a day, when you take it off you’ll see the brown dust inside the filter and realise how important they are!

You shouldn’t have to wear one every day, but on those hazy days, you should make an effort to if you’re outside.

When buying a mask, don’t be that person who thinks a tiny bit of fabric over your mouth is going to protect you. You need to choose a mask that specifically filters out PM 2.5 , because those are the tiny air particles that can sneak past fabrics and flimsy paper masks into your lungs. 

It’s so dry in Beijing in winter that you will notice your lips becoming chapped quite quickly. You can pick up Vaseline or any type of lip balm in a healthy and beauty shop like Watsons, but remember that they won’t be cruelty-free because of China’s animal testing laws. If you want to bring a lip balm that hasn’t been tested on animals, try this vegan one from Hurraw.

Your head and ear will thank you for wearing a warm hat like this thick knitted number during your Beijing travels! Don’t be fooled by those clear blue skies and leave the hotel without it – the reason the sky is clear is that the wind has blown the pollution away so a hat is a must!

A really useful feature of warm gloves is being touchscreen compatible. The technology wasn’t that great when it first came out but toasty gloves like these unisex thermals really are handy when you’re using apps on your phone to help you whilst you’re in China!

Where To Stay During Your Beijing Itinerary

Beijing has lots of different accommodation options, from luxury apartments to local hutong rooms.

The neighbourhoods do vary in Beijing, but realistically the subway system is so good that you’ll be able to visit all of the cool attractions and things to do wherever you stay. Here’s a brief overview of the best places to stay in Beijing though, so that you can pick what suits you best.

Qian’men

We recommend staying in Qian’men if you’re a first time visitor to Beijing as lots of the main tourist attractions are accessible from here. Not only that, but accommodation tends to be cheaper around here.

It’s full of history as the ancient Forbidden City sits 2km north from the subway station, with the journey surrounded by other important features such as Tian’anmen Square, Mao’s mausoleum and the Monument to the People’s Heroes.

There are plenty of shopping opportunities too – you can pick up cheap but decent souvenirs in the local shops.

Recommended hotel in Qian’men:

New World Beijing Hotel

With its sleek and clean rooms, complimentary toiletries and free WiFi, the New World Beijing Hotel near Qian’men Street is the perfect place to rest after long days of sightseeing.

There’s a lovely indoor swimming pool, a spa centre and a sauna. Rooms have bathtubs, iPod docking stations and a gorgeous rootfop bar!

Book your room here or look at the reviews below first!

Check Out The Reviews Of New World Beijing Hotel Here

When researching things to do in Beijing, you’ve probably stumbled across the infamous Wangfujing Street. You’re probably imagining yourself snacking on scorpions, starfish and seahorses o sticks, just like the locals do, right?

Well, unfortunately, it was a bit of a tourist trap and you’re more likely to find the locals eating at KFC! Of course, there will be some nutters eating these weird snacks, but if you really want to try authentic Beijing food you should be on the lookout for dumplings,  BBQ lamb skewers and sweet + sour pork!

The market is actually under construction anyway but you’re better off not visiting!

When we first arrived in Beijing, we ventured down this street in search of local food and ended up with a sub-par spring roll, which we spent £6 on!! Looking back, we were ridiculously naive so don’t make the same mistakes as we did! That being said, Wangfujing Pedestrian Street is still a great place to explore.

There are plenty of good restaurants, shops, bookstores and souvenir places you can wander around. There’s a subway station directly outside the commercial street so you will be able to access the rest of Beijing easily.

If you are interested in checking out the local food scene without being ripped off, then take a tour like this with a friendly guide and learn all about Chinese cuisine!

Recommended hotel in Wangfujing:

Park Plaza Beijing

Relax after a busy day at the hotel spa with a massage, enjoy a cocktail or two a the bar or wind down in the gym. Enjoy the privacy of your own room and bathroom, and take in the gorgeous city views.

You’re only a short walk away from the subway, but also close to a lot of the action too!

Click here to check prices and availability.

Check Out The Reviews Of Park Plaza Beijing Here

Dongzhimen/Sanlitun

The heart of the bar scene in Beijing, Sanlitun is a great place to stay if you’re here to party! There are plenty of bars, restaurants and shops in this area, and many of those are western names you’ll recognise. Go shopping at H&M, grab a burger at McDonald’s and sip on a Guinness at Paddy’s Irish Bar.

Or, if you have actually come to Beijing for a true Chinese experience then you can still indulge in an authentic Chinese meal, brave some baijiu (China’s version of hell a white spirit) and dip into the local branded shops. 

There’s also the famous Worker’s Stadium where you can catch a game of football. Support Beijing Guo’an (the ones in green) if you want to make any friends!

Recommended hotel in Dongzhimen:

Holiday Inn Express

Stay here if you don’t want to be kept awake all night by party-goers, but you don’t have to travel for an age to get back once you’ve had your fill of happy hour cocktails!

Breakfast is included in the room rate, there’s free WiFi and a fitness centre for guests to enjoy. It’s a recognisable and reliable brand – you can’t go wrong!

Book a room here or check out the reviews first below!

Check Out The Reviews Of Holiday Inn Express Beijing Dongzhimen Here

This area is famous for the large Hòuhai lake, along with another two smaller lakes that are surrounded by hutongs (narrow historic alleyways with courtyard homes), bars, restaurants and shops.

The area has a much more traditional Chinese feel to it compared to Sanlitun, so come here if you want to try to see how the locals live. There is also plenty of street food for you to try along the way too!

Recommended hotel in Shichachai

Shichahai Shadow Art Performance Hotel

Only 5 minutes away from the lakes, this boutique hotel offers everything from shadow puppet performances, to complimentary breakfast and dumpling-making classes.

Not only that, but the accommodation is beautifully decorated, and the staff are on hand 24/7 to help you with anything you need.

Check Out The Reviews Of Shichahai Shadow Art Performance Hotel Here

How To Get Around Beijing

Somewhat surprisingly, Beijing is an incredibly easy city to navigate. As a short stay traveller, you have a couple of options that I’ve listed below.

Paying by card is less common in China – usually locals and foreign expats use WeChat to pay for everything. Unless you have WeChat and have linked it to a Chinese bank account, you should be prepared to pay for everything in cash just in case! 

If you’re in Beijing for a short while and want to explore the city without going underground or adding to the pollution problem, then a bike-sharing app is the way forward.

Mobike is the most foreign traveller friendly as you can download it in your home country and attach your own bank account to it. You won’t be able to miss these bikes as they’re bright orange and dumped pretty much everywhere around the city. The bikes are usually piled high outside subway stations too.

Once you’ve downloaded the app and added your bank account, simply find a bike, scan the QR code on the app and off you go. Once you’ve finished your journey, put the bike somewhere thoughtful (i.e. not in the middle of the path like everybody else seems to do!) and lock it. You’ll hear 3 beeps which mean that your journey is complete and Mobike is calculating your costs.

Most apps don’t require a deposit anymore, and your journeys will cost you 1.5RMB per ride.

Read More: Download These Helpful Apps Before You Visit Beijing

It is extremely easy to get around Beijing using the subway system. As it’s relatively new (it opened almost 100 years after the London Underground with a huge expansion in the early 2000s), the trains are tall and wide enough to enjoy a comfortable ride. Also, they’re air-conditioned as standard which makes a big difference in the sweaty summer!

The stations also are all very clearly marked with overground signs for all exits, which have English and colour coordinated labels too. When you are on the platform, there are Chinese and English signs for you to read, so you can’t really go wrong. 

When you first enter a Chinese subway station, go to the counter and ask for a Transportation Card. They will need a 20RMB deposit, but once you’ve got it you can top it up when you like and avoid queuing every time you need a ticket. 

A journey on the subway will cost from between 3 RMB to 9RMB, and you can check out how much it will be either on this awesome website (which also has a handy free app) or by checking one of the ticket machines. 

The subway will almost always be quicker than a taxi as it avoids the traffic, but it can be awkward getting to certain places if a transit line is closed.

These little cabs are perfect for getting from A to B if you can’t be bothered to walk, but it’s too close to justify a taxi! Flag one down and be prepared to be ripped off, and then to haggle! A five-minute journey should cost no more than 10RMB if you’re in a busy part of the city.

Make sure you agree on the price beforehand and you can usually pay in either cash or by scanning the WeChat QR code if you have the app.

If you’re concerned about safety, then no, these aren’t ideal but generally, they stick to the side of the road, are clearly seen by drivers and aren’t travelling fast enough to cause any damage if you did bump into something.

The least tourist-friendly but also the cheapest mode of transport, buses in Beijing run frequently and and offer 50% off the ticket price if you use a transportation card. However, they will also have a box for your change if you want to pay cash.

Unless you know of a specific bus stop that you need to get to, it can be difficult to take a bus because there is no English on the bus stop sign.

There is an English announcement, however, so if you can listen out for your destination and remember where you have to get off on your return journey then buses in Beijing can be a good way to get around to places further away from subway stops.

It will cost you 2RMB for the first 6 miles and then 1RMB for every 3 miles after that. The prices are also capped at 12RMB however long you are on the bus for. Remember to beep your transportation card at the front of the bus and scan it again when you get off so that your journey can be registered. 

Taxis (hailing and app Didi – China’s Uber)

Unlike most city taxis, Beijing’s cabs are also really affordable. The main problem with them is that they tend to take a long time to get anyway because of the traffic in the city.

However, if you don’t want to be lugging bags back to your hotel and you want to be dropped off directly outside, then just hail a cab. Make sure you find an official one – you’ll recognise them by their two-tone pattern and hopefully a light on behind the windscreen indicating that they’re free.

Check that the cab has a meter before you get in, and that it is starting on 13RMB. Have your destination written down in Chinese just in case your driver can’t understand you (it’s highly likely that they won’t speak English). 

Do not get into a taxi that isn’t the standard two-tone colour. It’s a “black taxi” and they’re illegal. They’ll charge hideous rates and could even be dangerous.

In a taxi, you’ll be charged 13RMB for the first 2 miles, and then 2RMB per 1.4 miles after that during the day. After 11pm there’s a 20% increase in this fee, but either way your taxi ride will be cheap. If the driver is going at a slow-speed (in rush hour for example) then more will be added, or if you go further than 9 miles there will be extra charges. However, the extra costs shouldn’t make too much of a difference. For example, an hour’s journey from the airport to the centre of Beijing shouldn’t cost you any more than around 100 – 120 RMB.

Another way to grab a taxi in Beijing is to use their online ordering service similar to Uber, which is Didi. The only downside to this is that you have to be able to pay on the app, which means that you need a Chinese bank account.

As a tourist, you won’t have one of these but if you’re visiting Beijing from another part of China as an expat then it’s a great way of getting a cab, especially for those early morning/late night airport pickups.

A lot of taxis in Beijing have their seat belts cut out. I can’t explain it – no one really seems to know or care why they do it, so just watch out. These drivers are also not known for their slow and careful manoeuvring , so if you’re a nervous passenger, perhaps the subway would be a better choice for you!

Beijing is such a cool city and there is so much more to see and do that this itinerary. However, if you’re short on time then these are definitely the best things to do in the city!

Depending on your accommodation choices, Beijing is also the perfect place to explore on a budget as everything can be done cheaply or even for free, and you can take advantage of easy transportation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tours in beijing.

Taking a tour in Beijing is a good idea if you are short on time as it leaves nothing for you to organise. You might also prefer a tour if you aren’t comfortable with taking local buses further out of the city. Here are a few of my favourites:

What are some must-dos in Beijing?

If you are only spending 3 days in Beijing, then I recommend visiting the Great Wall as a priority. The Forbidden City is also a must-see, as well as Tian’anmen Square.

Which airport will I fly into?

Beijing has two airports – Beijing Capital International (PEK) and the newly built Beijing Daxing International airport (PKX).

Is it easy to travel around Beijing?

Yes! Pick up a subway card at a station booth and top up the card as and when you need it. The subway in Beijing is quick, cheap and reliable, plus the signs are in English!

How long should I spend in Beijing?

As foreigners can now get 6 days in Beijing visa-free, I would recommend spending at least 3 here. If you have the time and money though, it would be ideal for you to take advantage of the full 6 days by following our itinerary! Spending just under a week here is perfect because you can take a day to rest or enjoy the city at a slower pace.

Have you used this Beijing itinerary? Is there anything decent that I’ve left out? Let us know if you have any other Beijing travel tips in the comments below!

Click on the image below to repin this post!

China is a very peaceful and nice place. Peoples are very friendly there. All the places in Beijing were very attractive and I’m very excited to visit these places. Recently I had to China with my family for 8days.

It is a great place to be!

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• Tiananmen Square
• Temple of Heaven
• Peking Opera
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• Beijing Roast Duck
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• Pandas in Beijing Zoo
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12 Best Places to Visit near Beijing

As an ancient capital, Beijing has numerous well-known tourism attractions in the urban area like the Forbidden City . There are also many worthy places to visit near Beijing, like the world-famous Great Wall in the suburb, the summer resort Beidaihe Scenic Area in Qinhuangdao and Grass Skyline in Zhangjiakou. An excursion to the neighborhood of Beijing will give you a completely different experience. Here are the 12 best things to do near Beijing.

Mutianyu Great Wall

Jinshanling great wall  , lingshan mountain, longqing gorge, marco polo bridge (lugou bridge), beidaihe scenic area, puti island , liyuan bookstore, kangxi grassland  , tianmo desert, grass skyline road, you may like.

Traveling to Beijing, China: Your Ultimate Travel Guide [2024]

Beijing is a captivating city that combines the allure of narrow, picturesque alleys, traditional teahouses, vibrant bar streets, bustling commercial districts, contemporary elements, and the authentic charm of old Beijing. This unique blend has contributed to Beijing’s extensive and profound cultural heritage, as well as its orthodox yet elegant lifestyle.

Must-visit attractions in Beijing include iconic landmarks such as Summer Palace, the majestic Forbidden City, and the awe-inspiring Great Wall. Moreover, Beijing offers a diverse range of choices tailored to individual interests, whether it’s a couple seeking romantic experiences or a family in search of cultural wonders. Whether your heart yearns for royal monuments or fashionable neighborhoods, Beijing has the perfect place waiting to be discovered.

You might also be interested in: 🍳 25 BEST PEKING DUCK RESTAURANTS IN BEIJING, CHINA 2023 🍜 15 Best Noodle Dishes in Beijing|Restaurants Included 2023 🍚 62 Best Beijing Chinese Foods & Snacks You Must Try 2023 🏠 91 Best Restaurants in Beijing China in 2023 [Locals’ Guide]

Table of Contents

🌟beijing travel planning guide.

• 🔍Where is Beijing China Located?

🌏Getting to Beijing, China

🚗how to get around beijing, ☀️weather for beijing travel (best time to visit), 🌟34 best things to do in beijing, china, 🏨where to stay in beijing, 🌸final tip on traveling to beijing, china travel planning guide&faq.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can learn more about this in my disclosure policy.

Considering a last-minute trip to Beijing? Check out the finest tours, hotels, and more below! Remember to plan in advance for the top attractions in Beijing! 🇨🇳 Top Activities and Tours in Beijing: 1. Beijing Classic Full-Day Tour : With an informed guide, delve into the enigma of the Forbidden City, a highly popular Chinese landmark, while also appreciating the grand allure of the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven. 2. Best Beijing Hutong Food and Beer Tour : Immerse yourself in the rich historical ambiance while discovering the local way of life, and indulging in traditional cuisine at hidden gems and authentic family-run eateries. 3. Best Great Wall Tour: Discover the best-guided group tour of the Mutianyu Great Wall , Badaling Great Wall , and Jinshanling Great Wall , renowned for their ancient splendor, including lunch and an uncrowded experience. 4. Universal Beijing Resort Admission : Experience the grandeur of the largest Universal Studios with seven themed areas, 37 exhilarating rides, iconic landmarks, and exclusive early entry benefits. 🏨 Top Hotels in Beijing: Mandarin Oriental Hotel (luxury) Manxin Courtyard Hotel (affordable luxury) Crystal Orange Hotel (mid-range) Atour Light (budegt-friendly) 🌐Make sure to install ExpressVPN in advance for unrestricted internet access during your stay in China!

🔍 Where is Beijing China Located?

Beijing, the capital city of China, is located in the northeastern part of the country. It is situated at approximately 39.9 degrees north latitude and 116.4 degrees east longitude.

Beijing is surrounded by the province of Hebei to the north, west, and south, while the municipality of Tianjin lies to its southeast. With its strategic position in northern China, Beijing serves as a cultural, political, and economic center.

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Vancouver, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

✈️Getting to Beijing by Plane

Beijing is served by two primary airports: Capital International Airport and Daxing International Airport.

Capital International Airport , situated approximately 20 kilometers from the city center, stands as China’s busiest civil airport. It serves as the preferred arrival point for most tourists visiting Beijing. The airport offers comprehensive facilities and transportation options. There are five airport bus lines connecting it to downtown, providing convenient access. Additionally, taking the subway from the airport to the city is also highly convenient. Taxis are readily available at Terminals T2 and T3.

Daxing International Airport , a newly constructed airport completed in 2019, serves as the second-largest international airport in Beijing after Capital International Airport. It is located approximately 47 kilometers from downtown. The airport provides 12 airport bus lines for transportation to the city. Passengers can catch the airport bus at Gate 20 on the east side of the first floor of the terminal. Taxis are available on the first floor of the terminal building, with three designated platforms. For online car bookings, the designated area is the 1M floor of the P1 parking building.

🚆Getting to Beijing by Train

For train and high-speed train travel, Beijing has five main stations . The majority of trains make stops at Beijing South Railway Station, Beijing Railway Station, and Beijing West Railway Station.

Among these stations, Beijing Railway Station serves routes to cities such as Jinan, Nanjing, Suzhou, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and others. Beijing South Railway Station primarily handles trains heading to Tianjin, Harbin, and other northeastern regions, as well as Hefei, Shanghai, Nanjing, Jinan, Qingdao, and other eastern areas. Beijing West Railway Station is mainly used for journeys to destinations including Shijiazhuang, Zhengzhou, Wuhan, Changsha, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Taiyuan, Xi’an, and other regions in the northwest and south.

Subway : The subway system in Beijing offers the most convenient and efficient mode of transportation. Currently, there are 16 subway lines and 1 dedicated airport line operational, providing coverage to major commercial areas and tourist attractions within and around the city. The subway operates from around 5:00 am to 11:00 pm, with slight variations in the schedule for each line. The fare for subway journeys starts at CNY 3 and is based on the distance traveled, with a maximum fare of CNY 7.

Bus : Beijing’s public bus system is highly developed, encompassing comprehensive routes. Buses generally operate between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm, with some routes extending until 11:00 pm. Additionally, 15 night buses continue to operate during late hours. On urban bus lines, the fare is typically CNY 1, except for buses whose numbers begin with “6” or above, which are charged based on the distance traveled. It’s important to swipe your transportation card when boarding and alighting the bus. Failure to swipe when getting off will result in the full fare being charged.

Taxi/Online Car-hailing : In the absence of subway and bus options, taking a taxi or utilizing online car-hailing services is a convenient choice in Beijing. The initial cost for a taxi ride within a 3-kilometer distance is CNY 14. The regular price per kilometer is CNY 2.3, and during nighttime, an additional 20% of the regular price per kilometer is charged.

🔥Tip : A helpful tip to note is that traffic congestion in Beijing, particularly during rush hour, can be quite severe. Hence, the subway is recommended for travel during these periods. It is important to avoid unlicensed taxis , as they tend to be exorbitantly priced. Official taxis in Beijing have license plates starting with “京 B.”

Beijing experiences distinct seasons, including hot and rainy summers and cold and dry winters. January is the coldest month, often with temperatures below 0°C, while July is the hottest, occasionally reaching nearly 40°C.

March-May : During the spring months of March to May, Beijing experiences a short and fluctuating season. The temperature alternates between rises and falls, and there are occasional dust storms. Despite these challenges, there are still pleasant and warm days in May to enjoy outdoor activities.

June-August : Beijing has a relatively brief but hot summer, with many days reaching high temperatures, particularly around noon, up to 40°C. However, the suburbs around Beijing offer a refreshing escape from the heat. Additionally, this period coincides with the summer vacation for Chinese students, leading to increased tourist activity.

⭐ September-November : Autumn is the most suitable season for traveling to Beijing . The temperature is pleasant, not too cold, and it is considered the most beautiful time of the year. From late October to early November, Fragrance Hill in Beijing is renowned for its red autumn leaves, attracting climbers and photography enthusiasts to flock to witness this breathtaking spectacle. It is also the best time to climb the Great Wall, showcasing the most beautiful scenery of the year.

December-February : Winter in Beijing is characterized by naked trees and very cold weather. However, it is also the liveliest time of the year , featuring bustling temple fairs from early December to mid-February. These fairs attract large crowds and create a vibrant atmosphere. It is the perfect time to enjoy a hot pot of instant-boiled mutton and partake in a festive Chinese New Year celebration, adding to the charm of visiting Beijing during winter.

1. Explore the Forbidden City – One of the Best Places to Visit in Beijing

The Forbidden City, also called the Palace Museum, is a remarkable complex of ancient wooden structures, renowned as the world’s largest and best-preserved. It is also home to millions of invaluable cultural artifacts, constituting one-sixth of China’s total cultural relics.

When visiting Beijing, most first-time visitors prioritize a trip to the Forbidden City. The typical tour follows a specific route, starting at the Meridian Gate and progressing through the three main halls of the Outer Court including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony, then proceeding to the three main halls of the Inner Court consists of the Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Union, and Palace of Earthly Tranquility, and finally exploring the Western Six Palaces. The tour concludes by passing through the back of the Imperial Garden, visiting the Palace of Benevolent Peace and the Western Six Palaces, and exiting through the Gate of Divine Prowess.

The tour of the central axis, including the primary three halls, is the busiest but offers the best views along the way. It is recommended to have a guide who can provide detailed historical insights. For those wishing to avoid crowds, an alternative option is to bypass the main three halls and head directly to the east and west six palaces, where visitor numbers are significantly lower.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY60 | Nov to Mar: CNY40 ⏰Opening hours: Apr to Oct: 8:30-17:00 | Nov to Mar: 8:30-16:30; it is closed on Mondays, except for the Chinese statutory holidays. 🚇By subway: Take subway line 1, get off at Tiananmen East Station (Exit B) or Tiananmen West Station (Exit B), and walk 900 meters to arrive

2. Glimpse the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park

Jingshan Park is situated at the central point of Beijing’s north-south axis, adjacent to the Forbidden City to the south and Beihai Park to the west. It was once the tallest point in the city’s center. The park boasts a wide variety of impressive old trees and picturesque peaks with each hosting a lofty pavilion and a stunning array of peonies that bloom in May every year. The Wanchun Pavilion is recognized as the commanding peak on the central axis of Beijing, offering a commanding view of the Forbidden City and providing a panoramic view of the city.

Jingshan sits at a mere 43 meters above sea level, but it claims the title of the highest viewpoint in the vicinity of the Forbidden City. Tourists flock here every day to marvel at the panoramic view of the Forbidden City. However, not everyone is privy to the most stunning view of the palace. Timing is crucial! The optimal time to glimpse the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park is up until noon when the sun rays bathe the red walls and yellow tiles, resulting in a majestic and beautiful rosy red hue that surpasses the first-hand experience.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY2 ⏰Opening hours: Apr to Oct: 06:00 – 21:00 | Nov to Mar: 06:30-20:00 🚍By bus: Take bus 5 or 58 and get off at Xibanqiao Station.

3. Explore the Beihai Park

Beihai Park, located in the heart of Beijing, is considered China’s most ancient, well-preserved, and historically significant classical royal garden. The park is divided into four distinct areas: the Eastern Shore Area, the Botanical Garden of Qiongdao, the Northern Shore Area, and Round City.

The Eastern Shore Area features courtyard-style gardens like Painted Boat Hall and Hao Pu Creek Garden (Haopujian), surrounded by tall pines and cypress trees, creating a charming naturalistic ambiance reminiscent of traditional southern gardens.

In the Northern Shore Area, from east to west, visitors can explore scenic spots such as Minor Western Heaven, Quieting Heart Room (Jingxin Room), Western Heaven Temple, Nine-Dragon Wall, Chanfu Temple, and the Five-Dragon Pavilions. These structures blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings and offer breathtaking views of the lakeside. A notable landmark in Beihai Park is the White Pagoda, which is a Tibetan lama’s Pagoda.

The north gate of Beihai Park can be reached easily by taking subway Line 6, and both the north and south gates can be accessed by various bus routes. On the opposite side, you can find the iconic Forbidden City and Jingshan Park, while Shichahai is located next to the north gate.

Visitors can also observe local Beijing elders singing, dancing, and engaging in physical exercise, imparting an authentic and rich flavor of life to the park. While there are shops and restaurants within the park, they tend to be more expensive than those outside.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY10 | Nov to Mar: CNY5 ⏰Opening hours: Apr to Oct: 06:30 – 21:00 | Nov to Mar: 06:30-20:00 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 6 and get off at Beihai Bei Station, and get out from Exit B.

4. Visit the Temple of Heaven – A Sacred Place with Historical Significance

The Temple of Heaven was a sacred place where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties held the Heaven Worship Ceremony to pray for abundant rainfall and a plentiful harvest . The complex is comprised of an outer and an inner section, separated by two encircling walls.

The Circular Mound Altar(Huanqiutan), Imperial Vault of Heaven(Huangqiongyu), and Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests(Qiniandian) are the most impressive buildings in the complex, arranged from south to north. Visitors can also appreciate the ingenious design of the Echo Walls and Three Echo Stones.

To make the most of your visit , the typical tour order begins at the South Gate and proceeds to the Circular Mound Altar, Imperial Vault of Heaven, Three Echo Stones, Danbi Bridge, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Palace of Abstinence, the Divine Music Administration, and exits through the North or East Gate.

The Temple of Heaven holds great historical significance and is definitely a must-visit destination. To ensure that you don’t miss out on the core parts of the temple, purchasing a combined ticket is advised . If time permits, it’s recommended to delve deeper into the park to enjoy its relaxing atmosphere and admire the ancient trees. Exiting from the North Gate is suggested, where you can find a Ciqikou bean juice shop across the street, offering authentic Beijing snacks at an affordable price. Taking the subway from the North Gate is also a convenient option.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY15 | Nov to Mar: CNY10 ⏰Opening hours: 06:00-22:00 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station, and leave from Exit A

5. Witness the Flag-Raising Ceremony at Tian’anmen Square

As the largest square in the world , Tian’anmen Square is surrounded by several notable landmarks, including the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China on its west and east sides, respectively.

Continuing south of the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall will lead you to ZhengYang Gate (also known as Qianmen). The Monument to the People’s Heroes is located in the center of the square, while Tiananmen Tower can be found on the opposite side of the square, on the north side of Chang’an Street, and nearby the sparkling Jinshui River. Daily, the flag-raising and lowering ceremony is held in a solemn manner at Tian’anmen Square, so it is highly recommended for newcomers to Beijing attend this important event.

The flag-raising ceremony in Tiananmen Square takes place every day at a fixed time, regardless of weather conditions. During early summer, the ceremony takes place at 4 o’clock, while in winter, it is at 7 o’clock. If you miss the flag-raising, you can still witness the lowering ceremony in the afternoon at sunset. The flagbearers team is located inside Tiananmen Square and the training takes place outside the east side of the gate. You can observe the flagbearers practicing their swing posture up close.

🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 to Qianmen Subway Station and walk about 333 meters

6. Visit the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall

The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, situated in Tian’anmen Square south of the Monument to the People’s Heroes, was erected as a tribute to Chairman Mao. Its construction was completed in 1977, and it has a sprawling area of more than 57,000 square meters, out of which the construction area is about 28,000 square meters.

The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is the main building consisting of two floors. The roof of the hall is a double-eave roof that is supported by forty-four granite pillars on a large Burgundy granite base. The hall also has six memorial rooms and a movie theater. Every year, thousands of visitors come to pay their respects to Chairman Mao.

The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall remains closed every Monday, but it is accessible to the public from Tuesday to Sunday during the morning hours between 8-12 PM. It is free to visit the hall upon presenting a valid ID, but visitors are required to undergo a security check. Kindly note that bags, cameras, water cups, and other items are not allowed inside and must be stored before entering. There is a long queue that typically forms during peak periods.

🚇By subway: Take subway line 1 to Tian’anmen East or Tian’anmen West Station, and Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is to the south.

7. Pay A Visit to the National Museum of China

The National Museum of China is the largest contemporary museum in the world , covering almost 200,000 square meters and boasting an extensive collection of over one million artifacts. The museum comprises five floors and 48 exhibition halls, making it one of the Chinese museums with the most extensive and diverse collections of cultural relics.

Its collection is comprehensive and spans a vast historical period, featuring a wide array of materials and forms such as tortoise shells, bronze ware, porcelain, jade, gold and silverware, coins, Buddhist sculptures, ancient books, calligraphy, imperial seals, paintings, Ming & Qing furniture, enamelware, glassware, silk goods, handicrafts, ethnic relics, folk relics, and revolutionary relics. The museum offers an exhaustive showcase of the country’s traditional and exquisite cultural heritage.

There are numerous galleries within the museum, but the Ancient China Gallery and the Ancient Chinese Bronze Art Gallery are both unmissable for those with a bit of background knowledge. While the staff are well-groomed and provide good service, it’s unfortunate that no tour brochures are available and the electronic interpreter only covers a portion of the cultural artifacts. However, visitors can take advantage of the professional free and volunteer interpreters present in the museum to gain significant knowledge and learn about a plethora of amazing treasures. Furthermore, to save time amongst the crowds, online appointments can be made before visiting the museum.

🎫Admission ticket: most galleries are free ⏰Opening hours: 09:00-17:00; closed on Mondays 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station, and leave from Exit A

8. Military Museum of the Chinese People’s Revolution – Fans of Weapon Must See

Established in 1959, the Military Museum of the Chinese People’s Revolution is situated on the extension of Chang’an Street, which is located west of Tiananmen Square. It is the only all-encompassing military history museum in China, boasting an exhibition area of almost 60,000 square meters and a construction area of around 159,000 square meters, showcasing an array of historical weapons, cultural relics, artworks, and gifts exchanged during foreign military alliances .

The grand building features an impressive 7 floors, including two wings of four stories each and a large military emblem at the top. The venue consists of 10 exhibition halls, which include the Ancient Wars Hall, and Weapons Hall, as well as two halls dedicated to the War of Liberation and Anti-Japanese War, among others.

If weaponry intrigues you, the Military Museum of the Chinese People’s Revolution in Beijing is a must-see. This museum provides a miniature portrayal of China’s entire war history, from ancient to modern times, with detailed and well-crafted exhibits. The Anti-Japanese War display showcases a complete collection of weaponry, including a vast array of Chinese, American, and Japanese weapons.

The exhibit halls are arranged chronologically, from the shallow to the deep, making it easy to understand each weapon in a particular historical period. Additionally, there are many unique models and souvenirs available for purchase, making this a perfect destination for model enthusiasts. A single day may not be enough to fully explore everything the museum has to offer.

🎫Admission ticket: free ⏰Opening hours: 09:00-17:00; closed on Mondays 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 1 or Line 9 and get off at Junshi Bowuguan (Military Museum) Station and get out from Exit A

9. Explore Another Museum at Capital Museum

The Capital Museum is a large and comprehensive museum in Beijing spanning over an area of 24,832 square meters with five floors above ground and two floors underground. The exhibition of the museum consists of three main components: Main Display, Fine Collection Display, and Temporary Exhibition. With 5622 cultural relics on display, visitors can see a range of items such as bronze ware, ceramic ware, Buddha statues, jade, gold and silver, coins, calligraphy, painting, embroidery, and more.

🎫Admission ticket: free ⏰Opening hours: 09:00-17:00; closed on Mondays 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 1 and get off at Muxidi Station, and get out from Exit C1.

10. Wander the YuYuanTan Park

This park in downtown Beijing is one of the largest and offers various picturesque spots, making it an ideal place for residents to unwind and take a leisurely walk. One of its most renowned attractions is the Cherry Garden , which boasts thousands of cherry trees imported from Japan. During the months of March and April, visitors can witness the stunning display of cherry blossoms that lasts for over a month.

Yuyuantan Park enjoys a convenient location with easy access through subway and bus transportation, and it generally doesn’t get overly crowded. However, the Yuyuantan Cherry Blossom Festival, held annually in April, tends to attract a large number of visitors, resulting in long ticket queues. During summer, visitors can enjoy boating and swimming in the park, while an ice festival takes place every winter, adding to the park’s diverse attractions.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY10 ⏰Opening hours: 06:00-21:30 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 1 and get off at Military Museum Station and enter from the northern side of China Millennium Monument

11. Stroll Qianmen Street

Qianmen Street is Beijing’s well-known shopping and sightseeing street situated on the central axis of the city, extending from the north end of the Archery Tower of Qianmen to the turning point of Tiantan Park in the south, covering roughly 845 meters. It was formerly called Zhengyangmen Street during the Ming and Qing Dynasties till the Republican era, and in 1965, it was officially renamed Qianmen Street.

The street boasts many renowned old-fashioned restaurants , including Quanjude, Donglaishun, Siji Minfu, and Yitiaolong, among others. While maintaining its original traditional and historic shops, new stores such as clothing department stores, food stores, and watch stores have also emerged. The street is worth a visit if one is interested in exploring Beijing’s heritage and culture.

Qianmen Street underwent renovations before the 2008 Olympic Games, and since then it has lost some of its former vibrancy and popularity. However, the street still boasts numerous old buildings adorned with archways, traditional brands, and red lanterns, providing a glimpse into old Beijing’s flavor- perfect for sightseeing and photo opportunities. While strolling along the pedestrian street, visitors can also opt for a small sightseeing trolley called Dang Dang Che, which spans several hundred meters and costs around CNY 20.

🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 to Qianmen Station and get out from Exit B or C.

12. Walk in Dashilar Street

Dashilar is a popular commercial street located in the central part of Beijing. Its total length is 275 meters from east to west, and it is an essential part of the south-central axis, situated south of Tian’anmen Square and on the west side of Qianmen Street. The street boasts numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment options, along with time-famous brands, making it a go-to place to experience Beijing culture. In the past, it used to serve as Beijing’s center for entertainment, with various notable opera houses, teahouses, book shops, and the earliest cinema in Beijing’s history located there.

Situated in the heart of ancient Beijing lies an array of options for purchasing Beijing’s old objects and tasting the city’s famous delicacies in Liubiju, Rui Fu Xiang, and Quanjude. Dashilar boasts an exquisite display of traditional Chinese architecture, a popular spot for foreigners to capture memorable photographs. However, the current reality of modern times has commercialized the area, resulting in the appearance of modern signage that takes away from the charm of old Beijing.

🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 and get off at Qianmen Station. Get out from Exit C and then walk south for about five minutes.

13. Enjoy Peking Duck at Quanjude

Beijing Quanjude is a legendary restaurant that has become an iconic symbol of Chinese cuisine, particularly known for its mouthwatering Peking duck . With a rich history spanning over 150 years, it has earned a reputation as one of Beijing’s must-visit culinary destinations.

Quanjude’s roast duck is a culinary masterpiece, boasting crispy skin and succulent meat, served with delicate pancakes, scallions, and a delectable hoisin sauce. The restaurant’s skilled chefs meticulously prepare the ducks using traditional techniques, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Over the years, Quanjude has welcomed countless dignitaries and celebrities from around the world, adding to its allure. Beyond the famous roast duck, Quanjude offers a range of delectable dishes that showcase the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine. It is truly a gastronomic delight that captures the essence of Beijing’s culinary heritage.

⏰Opening Hours: 11:00 – 14:00 16:30 – 21:00 📍Address: No.30 Qianmen Street, Dongcheng District

14. Appreciate the Charm of Old Beijing at Nanluoguxiang

Nanluoguxiang, also known as South Gong and Drum Lane, is a historical and cultural landmark situated in Beijing. This 786-meter-long and 8-meter-wide alley is one of the oldest surviving hutongs in Beijing and is listed among the city’s 25 protected areas. It dates back to the time of the Yuan Dynasty and has the distinction of being the only well-preserved Yuan Dynasty Hutong courtyard structure. This historic residential area is truly remarkable due to its large scale and highest-grade checkerboard traditional layout.

Today, it features various specialty shops with different styles, elegant private houses, and restaurants that provide an exciting combination of old Beijing hutong and modern appeal . It now has become a fashionable hotspot in Beijing, blending modern elements with the historical essence of old Beijing. Anyone who wants to appreciate the quiet charm of old Beijing could visit the traditional courtyard dwellings on both sides of the road. These houses feature former residences of celebrities and historic buildings that can be explored.

Nanluoguxiang remains the most intact alley of conventional courtyard houses in Beijing. The majority of the courtyard residences in the hutong are private dwellings, which are not accessible for visiting. It is noteworthy that making sure to visit the Wenyu Nai Lao store to purchase cheese or yogurt is recommended. Nowadays, Nanluoguxiang is increasingly crowded with tourists, particularly during weekends and holidays; and many of the goods sold here are more expensive than anywhere else.

🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 6/ Line 8 directly to Nanluogu Xiang

15. Taking a Stroll Down the Yandai Xiejie

Yandai Xiejie, which spans 232 meters in length, is renowned as the oldest commercial street in Beijing. During the Qing Dynasty, this street was primarily dedicated to selling cigarette sets, mounted calligraphy and painting, and jade artifacts. Its enigmatic name was inspired by its resemblance to a smoking pipe, with the eastern entrance being likened to a cigarette holder.

A trip down this avenue is a quintessential experience showcasing ancient customs , including Beijing paper-cut, sugar-blowing figures, and characteristic snacks. A range of local and traditional delicacies such as Yaoji fried liver, and roasted lamb prepared by Master Ji can be found in the vicinity, so don’t miss out!

The route to the street can be accessed by taking a leisurely walk from Nanluoguxiang, which is in close proximity to the street. It is quite narrow and is lined with small shops selling varying specialties. You can also come across numerous small souvenirs being sold, however, due to the flocks of people, waiting in line is almost inevitable for purchasing anything.

Taking a stroll down the street for a while can take you to Houhai which is quite bustling, especially during the evening hours. If you get tired walking, you can opt for a tricycle tour that is popular for hutong sightseeing.

🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 8 to Shichahai, get out of the station from Exit A2, and then walk west for 1 minute

16. Learn Chinese Cuisine at Black Sesame Kitchen

If you’re all about exploring different food cultures, then Black Sesame Kitchen is the spot for you! It’s been hailed as one of Asia’s finest by Miele Guide, guaranteeing you a truly unique experience. By day, the kitchen transforms into a hotspot for private Chinese cooking classes tailored to international folks. You can roll up your sleeves and learn the art of dumplings and noodles, among other tasty techniques. But here’s the deal: those classes are super popular, so snag your spot ahead of time. When evening rolls around, the restaurant switches gears and serves up a delicious set menu of Chinese dishes . It’s a fantastic chance to mingle with folks from all over the globe and delve deeper into Chinese cuisine and culture. And yes, you can totally make advance bookings for this culinary adventure.

⏰Opening Hours: 11:00 – 22:00 📍Address: 28 Zhong Lao Hutong The Courtyard Institute, Dongcheng District

17. Admire the Serene Bell and Drum Tower

The Bell and Drum Tower is a group of ancient buildings located at the northern end of Beijing’s north-south central axis. It served as the time-telling center of the Han, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties and played a crucial role in the city’s history . The pair of towers stand in the front and back and have an imposing and magnificent appearance. And This scale and height of the tower construction are unparalleled in the history of the urban bell and drum towers.

While the Bell and Drum Tower may not offer a multitude of sights, its modest size in comparison to other world cultural heritage sites in this imperial capital ensures a serene and tranquil experience for the few tourists from home and abroad who come to explore its historical significance.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY20 ⏰Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 and get off at Guloudajie Station, walk 10 minutes to the tower

18. Enjoy A Night at Houhai Bar Street

Houhai stretches from Menwai Street in the east to Xinjiekou Street in the west and boasts of an ancient historical atmosphere that imbues the place with a mysterious color. The bars here are distinct and not excessively noisy , offering a unique cultural atmosphere and melodious singing that make for a modern urban alternative. To ensure the best clubbing experience here, it is advisable to avoid getting lost among the numerous choices and feeling embarrassed when rejecting a waiter’s warm greetings.

🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 8 to Shichahai Station and leave from Exit A2.

19. Visit Prince Gong Mansion – A Best-Preserved Imperial Mansion

Prince Gong Mansion also referred to as Gong Wang Fu in Chinese, is the most extensively conserved imperial mansion in China that comprises more than 30 buildings showcasing Western architecture and traditional garden designs. Its compact layout and distinct style have made it a remarkable place to visit.

Initially serving as the dwelling of Heshen, a Qing Dynasty official, the mansion witnessed the historical transition from the dynasty’s prosperity to its decline. The divided complex includes two parts – the mansion and the garden area . Within the mansion, there are multiple luxurious courtyard houses as the residential section, while the garden area located at the back of the mansion is called Jincui Yuan. Within the garden precinct, there are three unique features which include the Western-Style Gate, the Grand Theater House, and the ‘fu’ Stele, which are also known as the Three Uniqueness in Prince Gong Mansion.

The mansion from the Qing Dynasty boasts an artistic beauty that is just as impressive as that of the Forbidden City, showcasing some things that even the royal family doesn’t have. Currently, there are museum exhibitions that relate to Qing history. During spring, visitors can bask in the beauty of the garden, which boasts different types of blooming flowers.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY40 ⏰Opening hours: 08:30-17:00 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 6 to Beihai North and leave from Exit B

20. Go to See the Lama Temple – The Largest Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Beijing

The Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe Temple, is situated in the northeast corner of Beijing and is regarded as the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in the area, widely visited by locals for worship . It spans a total area of 6.6 square meters, featuring more than one thousand temples that seamlessly blend various ethnic architectural styles such as Han, Manchu, and Mongolian.

The temple comprises five main buildings, including the Yonghe Gate Hall, the main hall Yonghe Gong, the Yongyou Hall, the Falun Hall, and Wanfu Pavilion, which stand apart in their specific courtyards. The height of the buildings lessens as one proceeds northwards.

Currently, the Lama Temple in Beijing has become the most prosperous religious site for praying for good fortune. Adjacent to the entrance gate, there is a small window that offers the free distribution of Buddha incense. It is strictly prohibited to take photographs of the Buddha statues within the temple premises. Visitors are expected to comply with the rules and regulations of the temple.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY25 ⏰Opening hours: Apr to Oct: 09:00 – 17:00 | Nov to Mar: 09:00-16:30 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 or Line 5 to Yonghegong (Yonghe Temple) Station, get out of the station from Exit F

21. See the Confucius Temple and The Imperial College

The Confucius Temple and the Imperial College (Guozijian), constructed during the Yuan Dynasty, served as places of worship for emperors to Confucius and as the central government’s most prestigious institution of learning , respectively. Located symmetrically along the central axis, these two architectural complexes make up a magnificent and comprehensive display of ancient Chinese architecture.

Some of the key structures found in the Beijing Confucius Temple are the Xianshi Gate, Dacheng Gate, Dacheng Hall, and Chongshengci (Worship Hall), with the Dacheng Hall being the holiest temple in the Confucian Temple. The Imperial College’s main building remains well-preserved after more than seven centuries and is currently the sole fully-preserved site of China’s highest ancient university.

The Confucius Temple and the Imperial College may not hold the status of being a world cultural heritage or a 5A scenic spot, but they are still worth a visit, especially for individuals who are interested in Chinese ancient architecture along with the history and culture. Not as crowded as the Forbidden City or the Summer Palace, one can find towering ancient trees and splendid temples inside, and the 14 stone stele pavilions from the Ming and Qing dynasties are highly valuable sources of historical information about ancient China. Visiting this place can provide a great insight into the tradition of honoring Confucius during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and one can also gain knowledge about the ancient education system’s highest university.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY30 ⏰Opening hours: May to Oct: 08:30 – 18:00 | Nov to Apr: 08:30 – 17:00 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 or Line 5 and get off at Yonghegong Station, and get out from Exit G

22. Enjoy Coffee at Wudaoying Alley

Wudaoying Hutong is a notable hutong in Beijing with a length of a little over 600 meters. The buildings are in the Chinese style and feature mottled red paint that adds an aged feel to the area. The big red gate, gate pile, and drum-shaped bearing stone are juxtaposed with modern shops, signs, and advertisements, forming a strong contrast between Chinese and Western cultures.

It is now becoming a hub for young people in Beijing, with a plethora of creative shops, cafes, and boutiques to explore. The street is adjacent to an ordinary residential area, blending street life with the latest fashion trend. Though there aren’t many tourists here, it’s an excellent spot to grab a coffee and feel at peace.

Wudaoying Hutong, which is often frequented by young people and foreign tourists, can be included in an itinerary alongside The Lama Temple, Confucius Temple, and The Imperial College Museum. Unlike the bustling atmosphere of Nanluoguxiang (South Luogu Lane), this location offers a quieter experience. The area boasts an array of cafes, restaurants, B&Bs, jewelry shops, and clothing stores. It is known that many of the shop owners here are expatriates and returnees.

🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 or Line 5 to Yonghegong Station, get out of the station from Exit F

23. Stroll Around Ditan Park

Ditan Park, alternatively referred to as the Temple of Earth, holds the position of being the second of the five altars present in Beijing. It was a place where the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties offered sacrifices to the “imperial deities” and still remains the most substantial sacrificial altar in China . The ancient trees within the premises are worth admiring, especially during autumn when the ginkgo trees turn golden, and the place is relatively less crowded. Additionally, every Spring Festival, a bustling temple fair takes place, which showcases a sacrificial performance resembling the Qing Dynasty and displays the grandeur of its ceremonies.

The size of the Temple of Earth may not be huge but it has a relatively high number of vegetation covered with a variety of old trees. During the autumn season, many photographers visit there to capture the beauty of the ginkgo leaves in shades of yellow. People also gather there to perform various activities such as singing, dancing, and playing guitar. Overall, it’s a tranquil location.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY2 ⏰Opening hours: May to Oct: 06:00 – 21:30 | Nov to Apr: 06:00-20:30 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 2 or Subway Line 5 to Yonghegong Station and get out from Exit A

24. Find Art at 798 Art District

The 798 Art District is situated in the northeast part of Beijing and is referred to as the Dashanzi Art District, situated in the Dashanzi zone. Art enthusiasts will find solace in this old, converted factory that showcases various contemporary and innovative artistic expressions from around the world, including art exhibitions, galleries, photography, clay sculpture, coffee, bars, graffiti, boutiques, design studios, and art performances. Additionally, it hosts significant international art exhibitions, art events, and fashion shows.

🎫Admission ticket: Free; some galleries and exhibition halls sell admission tickets ⏰Opening hours: The art district is open all day long. Most shops and galleries inside are open from 10:00 to 18:00 and some may close on Monday 🚍By bus: Take bus 401, 402, 405, 418, 445, 973, 988, 991 or Fast Transit Line 117 to Wangyefen Station or Dashanzi Lukou Nan Station

25. Purchase Second-hand Goods at Panjiayuan Flea Market

Beijing Panjiayuan Flea Market, established in 1992, is the most extensive and well-known market for second-hand goods and curios in China . It covers 48,500 square meters and is situated in the southeast corner of Beijing’s Third Ring Road, Chaoyang district. Stores are open every day, while street stalls are only available on weekends.

If you happen to be a collector or enthusiast of Chinese antiques, crafts, or collectibles, then you might want to consider visiting this marketplace. The best time to drop by is on Saturdays and Sundays as there is a wider selection of items on offer. You can find cultural relics, paintings and calligraphy, the four treasures of the study, pearl, and agate, Beijing Opera facial masks, porcelain wood, furniture crafts, and other collections here. However, be cautious when making any purchases as there are many counterfeit goods being sold. Make sure to carefully examine the items, compare prices, and choose your sellers wisely to avoid being taken advantage of.

⏰Opening hours: Mon to Fri: 8:00-17:30 | Sat to Sun: 04:30-17:30 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 10 to Panjiayuan Station and leave from Exit B

26. Visit Beijing Olympic Park

The Olympic Park in Beijing is situated at the north end of the central axis of Beijing, spreading over an area of 11.59 square kilometers. The most iconic landmarks of the park include the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube , which are located in the southern part and are representative of the Beijing Olympics; The Beijing National Indoor Stadium is one of the three main venues for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, its shape resembles an unfolded folding fan, and adjacent to the “Bird’s Nest” and “Water Cube”.

The Olympic Forest Park , the most extensive urban park in Beijing, is situated north of the Olympic Park and is now a natural scenic getaway for the city’s residents. The Sunken Garden , composed of seven courtyards with elements of Chinese culture, effectively showcases China’s cultural heritage in a modern context.

The southern section of the Olympic Park features a diverse range of natural beauty, such as lakes, woodlands, hills, and wetlands, across the entire park, conveniently located near the subway station. The lakeside is a popular spot for people to relax, read books, and watch movies, while many joggers can be seen on the jogging paths. Visitors can rent bikes or electric scooters to explore the lake’s surrounding scenery. Despite being busier on weekends, the park’s vast size ensures it never feels overcrowded.

🚇By subway: Take Line 8 or 15 to Beijing Olympic Park and leave from Exit B

27. Stop by Silk Street

Silk Street, also known as Xiushui Street, is a popular shopping market situated in the Chaoyang District of the city, which is close to the international CBD business district. It is considered the most influential worldwide tourist shopping mall in China and is on par with the renowned Great Wall and Forbidden City tourist attractions.

In 2005, the “Silk Street” was replaced with a new “Silk Street” department store, spanning over an area of 28,000 square meters and containing 1,500 stalls. The store sells a diverse range of ethnic products including silk, fine clothes, pearls, tea, handicrafts, and Chinese food such as Quanjude roast duck. Silk Street attracts a diverse clientele, ranging from dignitaries and their wives to international sports stars, which emphasizes its unique position as a leading international market in China.

In fact, the New Silk Road retains the form of the old market’s shopping street while featuring a wider range of specialty products and longer shopping hours. The vendors communicate in English, utilize calculators, and haggle with foreign traders. And multitudes of merchants remain active and diligent.

⏰Opening hours: 9:30-21:00 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 1 and get off at Yonganli

28. Go Shopping in Taikoo Li Sanlitun

Taikoo Li Sanlitun, which covers an area of about 61,014 square meters and consists of 30 independent buildings, is now known as an ultimate destination for fashion trends in Beijing . The site offers a wide range of facilities including shopping, dining, hotels, and entertainment, which are divided into three areas: South, North, and West Districts.

Taikoo Li South hosts the largest Adidas brand center in the world as well as the first Apple Store in China, both of which attract a large number of young people who are interested in limited-edition releases. Meanwhile, Taikoo Lee North is the home of many international luxury brands, creative and cutting-edge designer stores, and art galleries.

Sanlitun is a unique area in Beijing where ordinary and extravagant lifestyles come together to create a melting pot of culture and indulgence. It is a popular spot among young people on weekends as it offers a diverse range of experiences, from high-end fashion brands and luxury goods to local street food and upscale Western-style Chinese cuisine. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee at a quiet cafe or unwind at a smoky bar. All in all, Sanlitun is a confluence of diverse elements that must not be missed.

🚇By subway: Take subway line 10, get off at Tuanjiehu Station, and exit from A

29. Enjoy Your Nightlife at Sanlitun Bar Street

Sanlitun is the answer to the question of where to find Beijing’s liveliest nightlife, especially for those who are fashionable and enjoy the high-end atmosphere. Being close to the embassy district, it’s common for foreigners to frequent the area. Sanlitun bar street offers a variety of bars and nightclubs catering to different tastes like wine bars, gay bars, and music bars. However, visitors should be aware that prices in Sanlitun can be quite costly.

30. Do Half-day Trip to the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace, which is situated in the western parts of Beijing, China, holds the distinction of being the largest and best-preserved royal park in the country , spanning an area of approximately 290 hectares. This heritage site was added to the World Heritage List in 1998.

The palace has three main areas, namely, a political center focused around the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, the emperor’s living quarters consisting of the Hall of Jade Ripples and the Hall of Joyful Longevity, and the scenic tourist area of Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake. The Long Corridor in the Summer Palace has a small purple “waterfall” with thin vines adorned with purple blooms, creating a romantic and charming view.

To fully explore the vast Summer Palace, set aside approximately five hours on foot. Begin at the East Palace Gate, prioritizing visits to the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, as well as the Garden of Virtue and Harmony—spaces where the emperor worked and entertained. Nearby, well-proportioned attics housed the emperor and concubines. Continue along the Long Corridor, leading to the Tower of Buddhist Incense Pavilion. If fatigue sets in, consider taking a boat to Suzhou Street, exiting through the North Palace Gate. Alternatively, keep walking the Long Corridor to the West Causeway, modeled after the Su Causeway. Follow the lake path, eventually reaching the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. Finally, exit through the new palace gate or continue north toward the East Palace Gate.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY30 | Nov to Mar: CNY20 ⏰Opening hours: Apr to Oct: 06:30 – 18:00 | Nov to Mar: 07:00 – 17:00 🚇By subway: Take line 4 to Beigongmen, and exit from D

31. Explore the Ruins of Old Summer Palace

The Old Summer Palace, which consists of Yuanmingyuan(the Old Summer Palace), Wanchunyuan(the Garden of Blossoming Spring), and Changchunyuan(the Garden of Eternal Spring), was a significant imperial palace of the Qing Dynasty for over 150 years. Unfortunately, the main constructions were burned down by the Anglo-French Allied Force in 1860, and today only the wreckage remains as a reminder of its past imperial glory.

Wanchunyuan is the smallest garden with many small attractions and pavilions scattered throughout. Nowadays, it is mainly used as the venue for the annual Lotus Festival in Yuanmingyuan. Changchunyuan boasts large-scale waterscapes and the Great Fountain Ruins (Dashuifa) is the most comprehensively conserved ruins in the area.

The Old Summer Palace appears to be less attractive in reality than it is described in the book. There are ruins and broken walls as far as the eye can see, and despite repairs, weeds and stones still occupy the area. The destruction of Yuanmingyuan was heavily influenced by the materials used for construction at that time, with the wooden houses consumed by the fire.

The ruins park may not be visually stunning, but it can create a significant psychological impact on people due to the ruins . What once was the magnificent Garden of Gardens, now lies in ruins and holds little beauty in its current state.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY10 ⏰Opening hours: May to Aug: 07:00-19:00 | Apr, Sep, and Oct: 07:00-18:00 | Nov to Mar: 07:00-17:30 🚇By subway: Take Subway Line 4 and get off at Yuanmingyuan Station, and get out from Exit B

32. Admire the Charm of the Fragrant Hills Park

Xiangshan Park, also known as Fragrant Hills Park, is located in the western suburbs of Haidian District, Beijing. It is a famous forest park and an imperial garden with a long history. In ancient times, emperors would come here to hunt and keep cool during the summer. It is a famous maple leaves landscape area in Beijing. Every autumn, the maple leaves all over the mountains are as red as flames.

The best viewing season is from mid-October to early November, which lasts about a month. Famous scenic spots are Bright Temple (Zhao Miao), a large and attractive building with Tibetan temple style, and quaint courtyard with Jiangnan characteristics –Study of Reading Heart (Jianxin Zhai), Chairman Mao Zedong and the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China stationed earliest living and office place – Shuangqing Villa.

The annual Red Leaves Festival , which runs from mid-October to mid-November, attracts tourists from all over the country. But catching up with the peak of weekend tourism can be really a sea of people. If you want to come here, you need to arrange both the time and the route. There are two options for going up the mountain: cable car and walking, you can walk up to the top can enjoy the scenery first, and then go down with the cable car is not too bad for the knees.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Nov 15: CNY10 | Nov 16 to Mar: CNY5 ⏰Opening hours: 06:00 – 19:30 🚍By bus: Take bus 563, 318, 360, or 698 and get off at Xiangshan Station

33. Hiking the Great Wall

The Great Wall of China is a remarkable architectural feat that spans approximately 13,000 miles. It was constructed over several centuries to defend China against invasions. The wall varies in age, with some sections dating back over 2,000 years. It is made of various materials, such as stone, brick, tamped earth, and wood. The wall’s purpose extended beyond defense, serving as a transportation route, a symbol of national unity, and an engineering masterpiece. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views and insights into China’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Hiking the Badaling Great Wall Section

Badaling is a renowned section of the Great Wall of China, located in the Yanqing District of Beijing. It is widely recognized as one of the most well-preserved and popular segments of the Great Wall . Known for its beautiful scenery and steep terrain, Badaling offers a captivating experience for visitors.

Constructed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Badaling served as a crucial military fortification, protecting the northern borders of China. Stretching approximately 7.6 kilometers, it features a series of watchtowers, beacon towers, and defensive walls that wind their way along rugged mountain ridges.

Since its opening to the public, Badaling has attracted countless tourists from around the world. In 1988, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance. Over the years, extensive restoration work has been carried out to preserve its original grandeur.

Visitors to Badaling can embark on an awe-inspiring journey by walking along the ancient walls, exploring the watchtowers, and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. For those who prefer a more convenient option, there is a cable car that transports visitors to the highest point of the Wall, providing stunning panoramic vistas without the need for strenuous hiking.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY40 | Nov to Mar: CNY35 ⏰Opening hours: 06:30 – 14:30

How to Get to Badaling Great Wall

• Take Bus 877 from Deshengmen Bus Station, located near Jishuitan Subway Station on Line 2. The bus operates from early morning until late evening, with a travel time of about 2 hours. The fare is approximately CNY 12.
• Take the Tourist Bus Line 1, which departs from the southwest of Qianmen Arrow Tower. This bus will take you to the Badaling Guntiangou Parking Lot. The payment fee is CNY20 in cash per person. The estimated duration for a one-way journey is around 100 minutes.

Hiking Juyong Pass Great Wall Section

Juyongguan, also known as Juyong Pass, is a section of the Great Wall of China located in the Changping District of Beijing. It is one of the three most famous mountain passes of the Great Wall , along with Jiayuguan in the west and Shanhaiguan in the east.

One of the notable features of Juyongguan is its steep terrain, which makes it a natural defensive position. The pass is surrounded by mountains on three sides, and its narrow valley is flanked by steep cliffs. To enhance its defensive capabilities, various fortifications were built along the pass, including watchtowers, gates, and beacon towers. These structures provided both defensive functions and served as signaling stations for communication along the Great Wall.

The Juyongguan section of the Great Wall is also renowned for its architectural beauty. It features several well-preserved structures, such as the Cloud Platform (Yun Tai), which is a marble terrace built during the Ming Dynasty. This platform served as a base for ceremonies and provided a vantage point to observe the surrounding landscapes.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY40 | Nov to Mar: CNY35 ⏰Opening hours: 08:30-17:00 🚍By bus: Take bus line 883 or 919 from Deshengmen West or Deshengmen to Nankou Lukou South or Nankou Lukou North. Then, change to bus line Chang 20 to Juyongguan Great Wall.

Hiking Mutianyu Great Wall Section

Located in Huairou County, approximately 70 km northeast of central Beijing, the Mutianyu Great Wall is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and remarkable preservation. This section of the Great Wall stands out as one of the most picturesque and sought-after destinations for both local and international tourists , offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Stretching across a length of about 2.5 kilometers, the Mutianyu Great Wall claims the title of the longest segment of the Great Wall in China. It boasts an impressive array of features, including 22 watchtowers and three primary defensive barriers, among them a moat designed to deter potential intruders from approaching the wall.

Upon reaching the Mutianyu Great Wall, visitors have various options to explore this magnificent structure. They can choose to hike along the wall, opt for a cable car ride , or even embark on an exhilarating toboggan descent. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring along water and snacks, as the dining options on the wall itself are limited.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY40 ⏰Opening hours: 08:30-17:00 🚍By bus: Take the bus from Dongzhimen Wai Bus Station and get off at Mutianyu’s Parking Lot P1. The bus operates from 8:30 am, with a travel duration of about 1.5 to 2 hours. The fare is roughly CNY 30.

Hiking Jiankou Great Wall Section

Jiankou Great Wall is renowned for its challenging nature and is considered one of the most difficult sections of the Great Wall to hike . Its steep and treacherous segments add to its reputation. The name “Jiankou” derives from its resemblance to an arrow, with the collapsed ridge forming the arrow nock. This segment is also home to noteworthy landmarks, including the “Eagle Flies Facing Upward” watchtower and the “Beijing Knot.” Although Jiankou Great Wall is not as well-preserved as other parts, it remains a favored destination for adventurous hikers and history enthusiasts. However, it’s important to note that due to its rugged terrain and limited safety measures, hiking Jiankou Great Wall is recommended only for experienced hikers equipped with proper gear and precautions .

🚍By bus: Take bus line 916 Express at Dongzhimen Transit Hub. After approximately 1-1.5 hours, alight at Yangjiayuan. From there, head north on foot until you reach a crossing, then make a right turn and board the H25 bus to reach the Xizhazi Village West stop.

Hiking Jinshanling Great Wall Section

Explorers of the Jinshanling Great Wall can embark on a hike along the wall while relishing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside. This section of the Great Wall extends approximately 10.5 kilometers and boasts an impressive collection of 67 watchtowers. It is revered as one of the most well-preserved segments, attracting hikers and tourists alike.

During the autumn, Jinshanling Great Wall showcases its awe-inspiring beauty as the foliage of the surrounding trees transitions into vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange, creating a picturesque landscape. This time of year is particularly favored for visiting. Additionally, the wall offers an enchanting setting for photography enthusiasts, especially during sunrise and sunset when the wall radiates a golden glow.

Jinshanling Great Wall is renowned for its challenging hiking trails, featuring steep inclines and rugged terrain . Due to these challenging features, it is not advisable for families with young children or elderly individuals. However, for those who are up for the adventure, it promises an unforgettable experience.

🎫Admission ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY65 | Nov to Mar: CNY55 ⏰Opening hours: 6:00 – 17:30 🚍By tourist bus: Between mid-March and mid-November, a tourist bus departs at 7:40 am from Beijing’s Dongzhimen Wai Bus Station, returning from Jinshanling at 16:00 pm. Tickets cost around CNY 120.

34. Come to Ming Tombs

The Ming Tombs encompass the burial sites of thirteen Ming Dynasty emperors and rank among China’s most expansive and significant imperial mausoleum complexes. Presently, only the Changling Tomb, Dingling Tomb, Zhaoling Tomb, and Sacred Way are accessible to the public. The entire scenic area is a harmonious whole, with each mausoleum functioning as an independent unit and strategically situated in front of a mountain. Among the thirteen tombs, the Changling Tomb holds significant prominence as it was the first constructed and serves as the tomb of the third Ming Dynasty Emperor. It boasts the distinction of being the largest, most original, and well-preserved tomb among the 13 Ming Tombs. The Changling Museum exhibits a wide range of unearthed relics, including the phoenix crown, the civilian official’s top hat, jade belt, and hairpins, offering a captivating display. In addition to exploring the historical aspects, it is recommended to visit the Zhaoling Tomb and take a leisurely stroll along the Sacred Way. The Sacred Way features captivating stone statues, while the Zhaoling area provides a serene and less crowded environment, ideal for peaceful walks.

🎫Combo Ticket: Apr to Oct: CNY130 | Nov to Mar: CNY100 (four open tombs) ⏰Opening hours: Apr to Oct: 08:30 – 17:00 | Nov to Mar: 08:30 – 16:30 🚇By subway: Take the Changping Line subway to Changping Dongguan Station. From there, transfer to bus 314, which will take you directly to Changling or Dingling.

MOST LUXURY : Mandarin Oriental Hotel (⭐️ 9.6) This upscale hotel offers tranquility amidst the bustling city and provides stunning sunset views of the Forbidden City from its Mandarin room. It excels in all aspects, including considerate service, outstanding facilities, superb dining options, and a relaxing spa, making it highly recommended.

BEST CULTURAL ARCHITECTURE : Manxin Courtyard Hotel (⭐️ 9.8) This hotel is perfectly situated and resembles Beijing’s Hutongs, featuring narrow passages leading to open courtyards and guest houses. Amidst the busy ambiance, it offers a tranquil traditional luxury. The service is exceptional. You can enjoy tea and capture moments in the courtyard.

MID-RANGE PICK: Crystal Orange Hotel(⭐️ 9.6) This highly affordable hotel boasts an excellent location near Wangfujing shopping street and within walking distance of the Forbidden City. It’s conveniently situated right across the subway entrance. The rooms, though not spacious, are well-kept and clean. Additionally, the hotel provides free luggage delivery.

TOP BUDGET PICK : Atour Light Hotel(⭐️ 9.4) Atour Light, China’s leading humanistic hotel, charms with its serene color scheme, artful decor, and wooden floors. Guests enjoy custom mattresses, smart room controls, and cityscape views. United Park is a multifunctional public space that combines a coffee bar and reading area.

To maximize your Beijing experience, plan your itinerary strategically, prioritizing popular attractions on weekdays to avoid crowds. Prepare for variable weather by packing comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and an umbrella. Engage with locals for authentic experiences and explore lesser-known neighborhoods for hidden gems. Respect local customs, indulge in Beijing’s diverse cuisine, and savor every moment of your journey. With these tips, your Beijing adventure will be truly remarkable.

🎫Do I need a visa for China?

Yes. Most visitors to China will need a visa to enter the country. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your trip, as well as your nationality. If you are a resident of the US, you must apply for a Chinese visa at the Consular Office in the country. On the other hand, inhabitants of countries like Japan, Canada, and the UK can request a visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center .

🤔 Why is it necessary to install a VPN in China?

In China, the government has strict regulations on internet access, leading to the blocking of popular websites and social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, and YouTube. To access these sites, a VPN is suggested as a means of bypassing the restrictions. It is important to choose a reputable VPN provider and use caution while doing so. ExpressVPN has been historically deemed the most reliable VPN for this purpose, despite being heavily targeted by China’s censors. Nevertheless, it is still a widely preferred option owing to its ease of installation and user-friendliness.

📲 Is it necessary to have a Chinese SIM card while in China?

Yes. It is crucial to acknowledge that accessing the internet in China may pose limitations due to certain websites being prohibited or filtered. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity while staying in China, purchasing a local SIM card is advisable. For optimum results, acquiring SIM cards from either China Unicom or China Mobile is recommended. While China Mobile has the most comprehensive coverage in China and is a market leader, China Unicom is more compatible with foreign phones, enabling 3G and 4G services. Or you can purchase a SIM card online .

🔮 Should I buy China travel insurance?

Yes. Although China is generally a safe country for travel, it is still possible to encounter accidents or other unexpected occurrences. Therefore, obtaining travel insurance can provide a sense of security and financial protection. In my research, I have found that World Nomads is a reputable travel insurance provider that covers a wide range of activities and is recommended for the average traveler. Nevertheless, I advise you to compare insurance quotes from various providers before making a decision.

🚙 Can you rent a car in China?

Unfeasible . Obtaining a Chinese driver’s license to rent a car and self-drive may seem like an option, but it is not a practical choice for most foreigners. Therefore, many prefer to opt for a driver or public transportation when navigating China, as it proves to be more convenient.

✈️ What’s the best site to purchase flight tickets for China?

I suggest using Trip for affordable flights to China. As a China-based company, they often offer lower prices compared to foreign companies. Additionally, they offer English-speaking phone support in case of any issues.

🏡 What is the best way to book hotels in China?

Not only does Trip offer a wider range of flight options, but it also provides a greater selection of hotels to choose from. Moreover, Agoda is a reliable resource for hotels throughout Asia.

🎒What do I pack for China?

Travel adapter and converter: China uses a different electrical system than many other countries, so it’s important to bring a travel adapter and converter if you plan to use electronic devices such as phones, cameras, and laptops.   Sunscreen: The UV index in China can be high, particularly during the summer months, and prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Deodorant: It should be noted that finding deodorant in China may not be a simple task.

📚 Can a guidebook for traveling to China be useful?

Yes . If you’re planning to travel to China for the first time, a travel guidebook can be a valuable resource, and Lonely Planet is one of the most reputable guides available globally. Its comprehensive itineraries and recommendations take into account your personal preferences and can save you both time and money. The insider tips are also extremely helpful in navigating China’s unique cultural landscape like a local.

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• Destinations

Wild Junket

3 Days in Beijing: My Recommended Itinerary 2024

Last Updated on March 12, 2024

Heading to the capital of China soon? Here’s my recommended Beijing itinerary for those who want to make the most of 3 days in Beijing.

Traditional yet vibrant, Beijing is a city that encapsulates the spirit of China perfectly with a slew of ancient palaces, temples and hutong districts. It’s an essential stop for anyone coming to China, because it’s home to some of the most iconic and famous sights in the country.

The Chinese capital city is a hodgepodge of historical sights and attractions, making it a great introduction to the Middle Kingdom. I recommend starting off your China itinerary in Beijing to get a good sense of both the old and new in China.

Despite being a modern 21st century city, Beijing still has an impressive collection of traditional enclaves and pockets of interesting culture to uncover — perfect for both history buffs and culture vultures.

Table of Contents

Head to Tiananmen Square 

Book your tickets here:, kick back at jingshan park, try the famous beijing duck, book your ticket here:, get lost in nanluogu xiang, eat at wangfujing street, book your great wall trip:, book your show here:, how to get around beijing.

• Luxury: The Opposite House
• Midrange: Shichahai Sandalwood Boutique Hotel 
• Budget: Hotel Kapok Beijing

Best Places to Eat and Drink

Plan your trip to china, three days in beijing itinerary.

The first thing you need to know if that Beijing is HUGE and there’s so much to see and explore in Beijing. You’ll need at least a week to experience all of the amazing sights. But if you only have 3 days in the Beijing, here’s my recommend itinerary that will help you make the most out of your time there.

Beijing Itinerary Day 1: Forbidden City

Make your first stop the Forbidden City, the most important imperial palace in China that served as the home of emperors for almost 500 years. Take a crash course in Chinese history and learn all about the milestones and major events that took place in this massive palace.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 14th century is made up of 980 buildings; you’ll need at least 3-4 hours to see it. I recommend booking a guided walk  (skip-the-line access) to truly understand the history of the place.

There is a limit to the number of tickets sold each day, so be sure to book your entrance tickets in advance. It’s closed on Mondays, keep that in mind when planning your trip. You MUST bring your passport with you when buying tickets.

Cross over to Beijing’s most prominent spot, Tiananmen Square, most famous for the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, a pro-democracy movement which ended with the declaration of martial law by the government and the death of several hundred or possibly thousands of civilians.

Here you’ll find Chairman Mao Memorial Hall where you can pay respects to China’s revered founder in his mausoleum. Book this tour to visit Tianamen Square along with the Forbidden City.

Across the road from the Forbidden City is the Jingshan Park , designed based on the principles of fengshui and to protect the palace from northern winds. Formerly a private imperial garden attached to the grounds of the Forbidden City, the grounds were listed as a Key State Park and opened to the public in 1928.

Today you can climb the short hill for fantastic 360-degree views across the Forbidden City and Beihai Park and see locals doing tai chi as the sun sets.

You can’t come to Beijing and not try the famous Peking duck. Its paper crispy skin and tender succulent meat are best savored with plum sauce and thinly sliced cucumber all rolled up in wafer thin pancakes.

There are plenty of good duck restaurants in Beijing, but one of the most famous in town is Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant – it may be a restaurant chain but it’s had a loyal following since 1864. To ensure you don’t miss an opportunity to dine here, make a reservation beforehand.

Beijing Itinerary Day 2: Palaces and Temples

Get up early and have a huge breakfast before you head towards the Temple of Heaven . During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the imperial complex played host to annual ceremonies of prayer. These days, the sprawling gardens here are where locals love to hang out and play chess, perform Chinese opera and fan dances.

From there, take a leisurely boat trip on Kunming Lake to get to the beautiful Summer Palace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design, with natural landscape of hills and water combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples and bridges. Book your entrance ticket here to skip the line .

Continue on to the Drum and Bell Towers, where you’ll find sprawling traditional  hutongs (labyrinth-like residential areas) and old Qing Dynasty courtyard homes tucked behind the large landmarks.

This is the best area to get acquainted with the old residential areas of Beijing and get a feel of how people live. You can even hire a rickshaw guide to show you around the nooks and crannies of this area.

Nanluogu Xiang is the most well restored hutong but it’s also the busiest and most touristy. The narrow alleys are flanked by restaurants, cafés and boutiques that has become a hip and cool district in modern Beijing. Don’t miss Mao Livehouse, one of the happening hubs of Beijing’s burgeoning rock music scene. 

For a night of shopping and eating, head to Beijing’s most famous pedestrianized shopping street lined with a slew of antique shops, modern fashion stores, souvenir stands and street food kiosks.

You’ll be able to find everything from SIM cards and mobile phones to silk scarves and snacks to bring home. Food choices range from exotic fare like deep-fried scorpions and star fish to lamb meat skewers and tang hu lu  (candied fruits on a stick).

Beijing Itinerary Day 3: Great Wall of China

With three days in Beijing, this is a must. While it may be quite hectic to squeeze in a daytrip to the Great Wall, it’s definitely an impressive sight you don’t want to miss. Badaling is the closest bit of the wall to Beijing, but it’s extremely crowded and inauthentic. 

If you want to see the wall at its most rugged (and without the throngs of crowd), head a little further from the city to other quieter sections such as Gubeikou, Jinshanling, Huanghuacheng and Jiankou. They are far more rugged and spectacular and still lie within 2-3 hours of Beijing.

You can easily spend 3-4 hours climbing the wall — be prepared for steep steps and crumbling walls. There will be a few vendors selling snacks and drinks along the wall, so bring some cash with you if you think you might need something along the way (like a beer!).

Watch Chinese Acrobats

To end your trip to Beijing with a bang, I recommend catching a Chinese acrobatics performance. It’s fun, entertaining and thrilling, and it will keep you at the edge of your seat with an array of juggling acts, contortionist performance and mask-changing stunts. Chaoyang Acrobatics Theater is the oldest acrobatics theater in Beijing, with nightly performances at 7.15pm.

The Beijing subway system is modern, safe, cheap and easy to use. It’s massive and getting bigger every year, with another 12 lines set to be in operation by 2021. It does get crowded, though. Fares are ¥3 to ¥8, depending on how far you are traveling.

Buy a travel card (refundable deposit ¥20) if you don’t want to queue for tickets each time you travel. The travel card also gets you a 50% discount on all bus journeys within the municipality of Beijing. Download the Metroman smartphone app to see the full Beijing subway map, with stations listed in both English and Chinese.

Where to Stay in Beijing

There’s no shortage of affordable hotels in Beijing , ranging from cheap backpackers hostels to quaint guesthouses in reformed hutongs to lavish five-star hotels. I recommend staying near the Tiananmen Square or the Wangfujing district for easy access to the city’s main attractions and eating haunts. My favourite place to stay is in the narrow alleys of hutongs, which make for a more authentic experience.

Luxury:  The Opposite House

A chic, stylish boutique hotel featuring minimalistic designs and   an all white-and-beige interior. Located in the hip Sanlitun Village, the hotel is surrounded by gourmet restaurants, hip bars and boutique shops. We had a spacious and chic suite that felt more like a studio apartment in Scandinavia. Book here.

Midrange:  Shichahai Sandalwood Boutique Hotel 

The former home of an administrator from the Qing Dynasty has been transformed into a stunning heritage hotel with classic old-world flair. I would definitely recommend this to those who want a taste of traditional China in their hotel. Check rates here.

Budget:  Hotel Kapok Beijing

Just 200m from the Forbidden City, this modern budget hotel features simple, slick furnishing at close proximity to all the attractions in town. I usually stay here when I’m traveling alone, for the convenience and affordable prices. Book here.

Beijng is the food capital of China, packed with outstanding street foods and top-notch restaurants to satisfy even the most hardened foodie. All your preconceived notions of Chinese cuisine will be defied here in Beijing as the city reveals the layers within its culinary culture.

Xian Lao Man

With a name that translates roughly to “the fillings are huge,” this is definitely the best place to go for authentic dumplings in Beijing.

Zhuang Zhuang de Men Mian

This simple diner specialises in men mian, noodles cooked in a covered ceramic pot atop gas burners. Its menu and decorations are done in a cute doodle style that draws in casual diners.

This tiny eatery in Andingmen serves flavourful and spicy Sichuan cuisine at an affordable price, but be prepared for cramped dining and long waits.

Most people only spend two or three days in Xi’an. But with so many things to do in Xi’an, you could easily stay busy for a week.

If you’re planning to travel all over China, here are some other articles I’ve written that you might find helpful.

• My 2-Week China Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Xi’An
• World’s Tallest Buddha Statue: Leshan, China
• A Story on Rice Planting in Yangshuo, China
• Floating Above the Clouds in Mount Emei

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Alex Steven

Simply amazing! The view of the great wall of China is so impressive and stunning. Loved reading it throughout. Cheers!

Great list! You’re definitely hitting most of the iconic Beijing sites in this itinerary.

My recommendation? Avoid Nanluoguxiang and Wangfujing like the plague unless you want to get jostled, shoved, and shouted at haha.

I reckon any of the hutongs around Andingmen would be a better bet and a more authentic Chinese experience. Wudaoying is a more laid back, hipster-style walking street than Nanluoguxiang, while you can find some great local food in and around hutongs like Fangjia and Fensiting.

Toss in a food tour with somebody like Untour and Lost Plate, and you’ll have a much tastier and less crowded food experience.

Badaling is worth skipping for the same reasons. Huanghuaxiang has both old and new sections dependent on your level of fitness, and Jinshanling (currently closed) and Gubeikou offer a quieter experience.

*Huanghuacheng >_<

Major cool points for mentioning Zhang Mama, by the way! I’m literally about to go have dinner there now!

Great article, Nellie! I’m hoping to make it back to China soon. I was recently in Suzhou, but would love to see The Wall and Beijing someday!

I was just in Beijing and have never seen such a crowd in a subway. It. Was. An. Experience

Great read, Nellie!

Hi Nellie, this is a wonderful itinerary for a traveler to really enjoy Beijing. I always love their food. So yummy!!!

How much do you spend in Beijing daily on a short budget but still visiting all these places?

Beijing isn’t an expensive place. I would estimate I spent around US$30/day not including accommodation. The day trip to the Great Wall is more expensive obviously.

Beijing has so many great landmarks to offer, that 3-days wouldn’t be enough to visit it all. Nevertheless, you wrote an excellent article (with beautifull photos) about Bejing. I can highly recomment Beijing for at least 3 days (or even better 5,6,7 days).

Perhaps is our navigation system for the Beijing metro (subway) usefull as well:

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Beijing Travel Guide

Beijing, "北京" in Chinese, is the capital of China. With more than 3,000 years of history, this ancient city has turned into a charming destination combining traditional culture and modern fashion.

Beijing is a must-visit city for travelers who come to China for the first time. It is one of the "10 best places to visit in the Asia Pacific", named by Lonely Planet in 2019.

Top Things to Do in Beijing:

• If you are a fan of Chinese imperial culture, explore the Forbidden City and Summer Palace.
• If you want to admire one of the greatest wonders of the world, climb the Great Wall of China .
• If you are interested in local neighborhood life, Beijing Hutongs will not let you down.
• If you are fond of local food, the Beijing Roast Duck is not to be missed.
• If you are a fan of Bruce Lee or like Chinese Kung Fu, enjoy a Kung Fu Show in Red Theater.

Top Attractions in Beijing

Beijing is world-famous for its historical and cultural sites. With numerous attractions, there are the top 3 must-visits in Beijing: the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and Tian'anmen Square.

• See all Beijing attractions

Best Time to Visit Beijing

Typically, the best periods to visit Beijing are spring and autumn, with very comfortable weather and pleasant scenery. September and October are the best months to go to Beijing. Beijing in autumn is dry and sunny, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful fallen leaves.

If you prefer a certain kind of season, read the Best Time to Visit Beijing to be more prepared. Read more details on Beijing Weather and Climate

Where to Stay in Beijing

As an international city, Beijing has a vast range of accommodations suiting every budget from luxury hotels to guesthouses. The majority of the hotels in Beijing are in 10 neighborhoods, from which you can choose the most suitable one to stay. Read Where to Stay in Beijing for more details.

How to Get to and Around Beijing

Beijing has a highly developed public transport system for people traveling to and getting around the city. The most reliable way to travel within the city is by subway.

The fastest way to get to Beijing is by air or high-speed train, depending on which city you come from. There are direct flights to Beijing from China's major cities like Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Xi'an. A Bullet train is the best option if you travel between Beijing and Tianjin:

• Travel between Beijing and Hong Kong
• Travel from Beijing to Shanghai
• How to Travel from Beijing to Tianjin?
• How to Travel from Beijing to Xi'an?

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26 AWESOME Things to Do in Beijing, China (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From exploring the Forbidden City to walking along the famous Great Wall of China, here is our list of the absolute best things to do in Beijing. 

Welcome to one of the most awe-inspiring, mind-blowing and just plain crazy cities on the face of the earth.

Beijing has everything: history, culture, stunning scenery, food and a healthy dose of culture shock.

I first visited Beijing back in 2008 just before the Beijing Olympics and I loved it so much that I returned in 2011 and lived there for over 7 years.

It became my home in a way I never imagined and to this day it is still my favourite city in the world.

There are so many awesome things to do, that you will be spoilt for choice. 

Beijing is a city that has changed constantly throughout its history.

Walls, palaces and temples have been knocked down and replaced as the city grew from a small settlement to one of the largest cities on earth.

Beijing’s history is intertwined with the story of China.

The city was a great power until the industrial revolution when the colonial powers came knocking on China’s door demanding it open for trade.

At this point, Beijing was the seat of power, and the Forbidden City was the centre of the known universe and the heart of one of the largest empires on earth.

Over the course of the 1800’s China and Beijing’s fortunes reversed.

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive China travel guide if you’re planning a visit!

Wars, unequal treaties and poor governance lead to the collapse of the Qing Dynasty and Imperial China.

What followed was the Civil War, the Japanese invasion and more Civil War.

Beijing was at the centre of this change and strife. So it was fitting that in 1949 Chairman Mao’s People Liberation Army marched into Beijing and Mao himself stood atop the gate of heavenly peace saying the Chinese people had stood up.

The Peoples Republic of China was formed and power was back in Beijing.

As China continues it’s rapid ascension to the upper echelons of the geopolitical tower this only enhances the importance, power and prestige of Beijing. 

Table of Contents

1) See The Flag-Lowering Ceremony At Tiananmen Square 

2) visit chairman mao’s mausoleum, 3) check out the forbidden city , 4) take a relaxing wander around jingshan park, 5) get lost wandering around the national museum of china, 6) visit the lamma temple , 7) escape the crowds at the confucius temple and imperial college, 8) take a wander around xiangshan, 9) be amazed by the summer palace, 10) wander around the ruins of the old summer palace , 11) visit tianyi’s mausoleum, 12) be amazed by the stunning frescos at fahai si, 13) see where many historians say world war 2 started , 14) take a wander through the city’s hutongs , 15) check out some awesome art in 798, 16) explore the temple of heaven, 17) get stuck into some square dancing, 18) eat real peking duck (北京烤鸭), 19) find all manner of awesome stuff at the panjiayuan antiques market, 20) get a foot massage, 21) take a wander down the foreign legation quarter , 22) get stuck into bargaining around xidan, 23) throw down some baijiu, 24) explore one of beijing’s many hidden temples, 25) take a trip to stunning cuandixia, 26) visit the great wall of china, best hostel in beijing – peking international youth hostel, best accommodation for couples in beijing – ming courtyard hotel, best mid-range accommodation in beijing – the emperor, best luxury accommodation in beijing – the orchid, beijing classics , hot pot (火锅), crawfish (小龙虾), beijing bbq (北京烤肉), roast lamb leg (烤羊腿), chuan’er (串), the best things to do in beijing.

There is no other city in the world like Beijing.

From some of the most impressive structures ever built in the ancient world to the hutongs (胡同 narrow alleyways) that are the city’s heart and soul, this is a city of contradictions, chaos and a healthy dollop of China. 

Beijing is most famous for the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Hutongs.

However, there are plenty of other cool things to do here, so enjoy our list of awesome things to do in Beijing. 

Not sure what to do in Beijing? Then start with a visit to Tiananmen square.

For many, this is what first springs to mind when anyone thinks of China’s capital.

This gargantuan public square (the seventh-largest in the world) is flanked by the National Museum of China on one side and the Great Hall of the People (the building that hosts various meetings and events of the Communist Party) on the other. 

Every day the Chinese flag is risen at sunrise and lowered at sunset.

Either of these times is atmospheric. However, the sunset is particularly beautiful.

As the sky darkens the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are lit up.

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Beijing. 

• Nearest Subway: Tiananmen East on Line 1 
• Opening Hours: Flag raising to flag lowering. Therefore if you watch the flag-lowering ceremony, you will watch it from the roads next to the square itself. 

Located in the centre of Tiananmen Square is Chairman Mao ’s Mausoleum.

To get onto Tiananmen Square itself you will need to bring your passport and go through a bag check.

The lines to get in and pay your respects can be very long, especially during national holidays. During this time it can seem like this is the most popular Beijing attraction.

Going earlier in the day can usually avoid this.

You cannot take camera’s in, and they are very strict about it. However, this rule may change.

Again, to get in you will need to show your passport and have your bag checked. Shorts, flip flops and vests are not permitted. 

You can purchase flowers to show your respects if you would like.

As you pass through be silent and do not stop walking. When you exit the mausoleum you will be at the south end of Tiananmen Square, so you a stone’s throw from exploring the Qianmen area.

Be prepared to be offered all kinds of Mao memorabilia.

• Nearest Subway: Qianmen or Tiananmen East
• Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm from Tuesday to Sunday

READ MORE: If you’re visiting China, make sure you check out Mount Huashan , the world’s most dangerous hike!

If you’re wondering what to do in Beijing, then you can’t miss this…

Welcome to one of Beijing’s, and indeed China’s, most stunning historical destinations.

From 1368 – 1911 this was the home of 24 emperors and the centre of the Chinese world.

Make no mistake the Forbidden City is huge. Inside is a mixture of palaces, courtyards, temples, gardens and museums.

The sheer size and majesty are overwhelming and it’s hard to believe this it’s over 600 years old. This is definitely a must-do in Beijing.

You can only book tickets online so as the number of visitors can be controlled.

You will need to bring your passport with you as this is the ID you use when booking your tickets. 

Do be aware that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays and can be particularly busy during national holidays.

Even with the crowds, this is definitely a Beijing must-see . 

• Nearest Subway: Tiananmen East
• Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm from April to October, and 8:30 am – 4:30 pm from November to March. Closed on Mondays.
• Cost: 60 Yuan

At the northern end of the Forbidden City (the exit), you will find Jingshan Park.

If you’re looking for some excellent views of the Forbidden City then this is the place to come.

Sunset is particularly nice and is certainly one of the top things to do in Beijing.

However, for convenience, you could just visit this park straight after visiting the Forbidden City. It would certainly be a nice change of pace from the crowds and chaos nestled within the walls of the Forbidden City.

• Nearest Subway: It’s probably Beihaibei on line 6, but it’s a fair trek away. You will be better off getting a bus if you are coming here directly and not coming from the Forbidden City. For anything bus-related, you will need to download Baidu Ditu , the Google Maps of China.
• Opening Hours: April to October: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm, ticket sale ends at 8:30 pm. November to March: 6:30 am – 8:00 pm, ticket sale ends at 7:30 pm
• Cost: 2 Yuan

Located on the eastern edge of Tiananmen Square is the phenomenal Museum of China.

Bring your passport and expect long queues to get in.

There is a lot to see here and the English captions are generally very good throughout. 

• Nearest Subway: Tiananmen East on line 1 or Qianmen on line 2
• Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Tickets are issued until 3:30 pm and the last entry is 4:00 pm. 

This spectacular Tibetan Buddhist Temple is a central pillar of the Buddhist world in Beijing.

It certainly one of the most spectacular Tibetan temples outside of China’s far-flung Himalayan province.

There are a couple of interesting museums inside that are well worth checking out. 

If you’re here during a major holiday there is a good chance that the temple will be chock full of worshippers coming and lighting incense.

With 3 stunning archways, 5 main halls that grow in size and a giant prayer wheel it’s easy to see why this is such a focal point for Buddhism in Beijing.

• Nearest Subway: Yonghegong (Lamma Temple) on line 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

Nestled in the hutongs to the west of the Lamma Temple you will find the Confucius Temple.

Head down Guozijian from the Lamma Temple and you will soon see it on your right-hand side. 

This is the site of the second-largest Confucian Temple in China. (The largest temple is in the great philosopher’s hometown of Qufu in Shandong.)

It has an almost ethereal atmosphere as if time has stood still.

Upon stepping over the threshold the sights, sounds and smells of a city of 20 million or so people disappear.

As well as being a homage to Confucius himself, this was also the site of the Imperial Examinations.

Passing these guaranteed wealth, status and life in the government during the time of Imperial China.

These tests focused on the candidates’ knowledge of the classics and literary style, not technical expertise, which as you can imagine lead to more than few issues before the Imperial Examination system was abolished in 1905.

Students would be tested in 1.5-metre cells over the course of 3 days.

Within the temple grounds, you will find the 13  Confucian classics written on 190 stelae, all 630,000 characters worth. 

•   Nearest Subway: Yonghegong (Lamma Temple) line 2 and line 5.
• Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm (sales end at 5:30 pm) from May to October. From November to April its 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (sales end at 4:30 pm).
• Cost: 30 Yuan.

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on our guide on how to spend 3 days in Chengdu !

Literally translated as ‘fragrant hills’ in English, this spectacular park out in Beijing’s north-west is home to some lovely views, great walking trails and a memorial hall dedicated to Sun Yat-Sen, the man who founded the Republic of China after the collapse of the Qing Dynasty. 

With its own stop on the Beijing subway system, Xiangshan is easier to visit than ever.

Head up to the parks highest point, Xianglu Peak for some lovely views out over western hills.

From here you can hike further into the hills to escape the crowds if you wish.

This spot is very popular in autumn as Beijingers flock to view the hills become splashed with red and orange. 

Between the entrance and Xianglu Peak, there are a variety of trails, pathways pavilions and temples that snake their way up to the parks highest point.

Make sure you check out Zhao Miao (Zhao temple) as well.

Close to the north gate of Xiangshan is the Azure Clouds Temple (Biyun Temple) which costs 10 Yuan and is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Here you can visit the memorial hall of Dr Sun Yat Sen, one of the most important and revered figures in Chinese history. 

• Nearest subway station: Xiangshan on the western suburban line. From here it’s just under 1km to the park entrance. 
• Opening hours: 6:00 am – 6:30 pm – April to June and September to mid-November. 6:00 am – 7:00 pm July to August. 6:00 am – 6:00 pm mid-November to March.
• Cost: Park and Biyun Temple – 15 Yuan from April to mid-November and 14 Yuan outside of that. 

Way out in Western Beijing, close(ish) to Xiangshan, is the stunning Summer Palace.

This was built by the Qianlong Emperor in the 18th century with the help of 100,000 labourers.

After the Summer Palace was badly damaged by British and French forces, the Empress Dowager Cixi began a major refit in 1888.

However, the money that she used for this refit was originally destined for the Chinese navy.

After China’s crushing defeat in the First Sino-Japanese War 1894-95, this act of corruption certainly came to the fore. 

After the collapse of the Qing Dynasty, the Summer Palace fell into a state of disrepair and an overhaul began upon the formation of the PRC in 1949. 

Longevity Hill offers some stunning views over Kunming Lake and then snakes down through a number of Pagodas and pavilions giving you a true insight into the opulence of Imperial China.

After exploring the Longevity Hill area head out towards Kunming lake.

Be under no illusions, Kunming Lake is pretty large so it’s certainly not a short walk.

However there a number of gorgeous bridges that are well worth checking out. The pick of these being the 17-Arch Bridge . 

On a clear day, this really is one of the best things to do in Beijing, with views from the top of Longevity Hill stretching right the back into Central Beijing. 

• Nearest subway: Xiyuan on line 4 
• Opening hours: April to October – 6:30 am to 6:00 pm and November to March – 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. 
• Cost: April to October – 60 Yuan and November to March 50 Yuan.

The Old Summer Palace is actually the former site of the Imperial Gardens.

In 1860, during the Second Opium War, the site was burnt and looted by British and French forces.

Numerous artworks were stolen and can now be found in 47 museums around the world.

At over 800 acres in size, it took 4,000 men 3 days to burn it to the ground. 

The Great Fountain Ruins are some of the best-preserved and offer the opportunity to reimagine the gardens at the grandest and most spectacular.

The gardens are home to numerous pavilions, temples and lakes.

There are also some excellent exhibits focusing on the history of the Old Summer Palace. 

• Nearest subway station:  Yuanmingyuan on line 4. 
• Opening hours: May to August – 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. April, September and October – 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. January, February, March, November and December – 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.
• Cost: 10 Yuan, with additional costs for other exhibitions and sites. 

Way out in Beijing’s Babaoshan district is the home of two of cities most off the beaten track destinations. 

Tianyi was a eunuch that was castrated at the age of 9 and went on to serve in the imperial court for 63 years.

Upon his death, the emperor demanded 3 days of mourning and ordered the creation of the mausoleum.

As well as being a monument to the life of Tianyi, there are also some excellent exhibits discussing the importance of eunuchs in Imperial China. A rather gruesome, yet fascinating area of Chinese history.

This is definitely one of the most interesting places to see in Beijing and one that is very much off the beaten track.

• Nearest subway station: Take line 1 all the way to Pingguoyuan, and then take bus 116, 396, 336 or 972 to Shougangxiaoqu ( 首钢小区 ). 
• Opening times: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. 
• Cost: 8 Yuan. 

A short walk from Tianyi’s Mausoleum is the stunning Fahai Si (Fahai Temple).

It what’s inside the temple that is most notable; its stunning Buddhist frescos.

Due to the sensitivity of the paintings, the doors are kept closed and you need to go with a tour that can be arranged when you have arrived.

Safe to say they are stunning, although the tour is in Mandarin. You can just enter to look around the temple grounds itself as well.  

• Nearest subway station: Same as for Tanya’s mausoleum. 
• Opening times: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, closed on Mondays. 
• Cost: 20 Yuan to enter the temple grounds, 100 Yuan to combine this with a tour of the frescos.

Another trip out to Beijing’s far western suburbs will take you to the Marco Polo Bridge and the small fortified town of Wanping .

It was here in 1937 that the Imperial Japanese Army demanded to enter Wanping to search for a missing soldier.

When this was refused they opened fire. Crucially, things did not calm down after this incident as had been the case in previous skirmishes across Manchuria.

It leads to a full-blown invasion of China by the Imperial Japanese Army.

Hence why it is this point that is considered the beginning of the second Sino-Japanese War and thus, by extension, World War Two.

The Chinese forces held Wanping and the Japanese forces surrounded them and crossed the famous Marco Polo Bridge.

This name comes from the fact it was included in Marco Polos famous travel diaries in which he believed the bridge to be one of the most beautiful in the world.

The bridge and Wanping are both riddled with bullet points, a stark reminder of one of the darkest periods in Chinese history. 

• Nearest subway station: Head to Beijing West Station and then take bus 309 to Lugou Xinqiao.
• Opening hours: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm April to October, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm November to March. 
• Cost: 20 Yuan

For many, this is where the heart of Beijing lies.

The winding alleyways of homes and businesses are what Beijing used to be made up of.

However, Beijing’s rampant growth over the last few decades has seen the number of hutongs decline dramatically.

In truth, these wonderful examples of old Beijing are not modern homes.

Insulation and sanitation are poor in many cases. Some of the really old hutong homes don’t have bathrooms and there will be a shared bathroom used by the neighbourhood. 

Taking a wander through the hutong’s is one of the best things to do in Beijing.

This is especially true early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the life and soul of the community are out and about. 

My favourite hutongs are the areas around the Drum Tower (head to Gulou Dajie and then head south-east), the area between Qianmen and Qiaowan subway stations and the area south-west of Caishikou subway station.

The joys of the hutong’s come from getting lost in the maze of alleyways and getting a taste of the old Beijing life.

Ride a rickshaw through Beijings Hutongs on this great tour on Get Your Guide !

Up in the city’s northeast, you will find a sprawling area home to an incredible array of galleries and art exhibitions.

This area is home to some of Beijing’s hippest and funkiest hangouts.

Take a day to explore the wide variety of art on offer when you visit Beijing.

• Nearest subway station: Wangjing South on line 14
• Opening times: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Cost: Free to enter most galleries, however, some will charge fees

One of China’s most important religious sites, the Temple of Heaven is a Unesco World Heritage Site and a true demonstration of the power and majesty of Imperial China. 

The site is huge. However, the highlight is the temple itself.

If you want to see a true slice of Beijing, get here very early in the morning, around 6 am then you will be treated to huge groups doing tai chi.

Later on in the day, you may be able to catch one of the marriage markets where parents try to fix their single children up with desirable suiters. 

The latter of these is certainly one of the more unique Beijing sights.

Our tip – Book your ticket online and skip the line!

• Nearest subway station: Tian Tan on line 5
• Opening times: April to October – 6:00 am – 10:00 pm and November to March – 6:30 am – 10:00 pm. 
• Cost: 35/30 Yuan.

This rather modern Chinese activity happens in a number of public spaces in the evenings.

Activities range from outdoor karaoke to inline skating. However the most common and accessible is dancing.

Huge groups of Beijingers get together as the sun goes down to dance the night away.

You may have to pay to join some of these classes. However, they are great fun. 

The best place to find these is in some of the cities residential areas. Check with your accommodation where the best place is to get involved.

Incidentally, the area around the Birds Nest Stadium , at the Olympic Park, is a particularly awesome place to see this in action.

Plus you get the sight of the Birds Nest Stadium lit up at night! 

For many, this is THE quintessential Beijing dish.

Head over to Sijiminfu (四季民富) close to Dongsishitiao subway station.

They do not take reservations so you will need to turn up, get a ticket and wait.

Fortunately, you can head off and explore the surrounding area while you wait and leave your phone number with the restaurant.

They will call you when your table is ready. However, if you can’t be back in time you will lose your spot.

Getting stuck into some Peking Duck and some of the other mouth-watering dishes here is definitely one of the top things to do in Beijing. 

Eat Peking Duck while taking in a kung fu show with this tour !

This fantastic market, located in the cities south-east, is home to all manner of antiques, artwork, books, knick-knacks and just about everything in between.

If you are looking to pick up some classic Mao-era posters and some walnuts (to roll around in your hands, not eat) then this is a great place to start.

Shopping here is absolutely one of the most fun things to do in Beijing, however, get ready to bargain hard. 

• Nearest subway: Panjiayuan on line 10
• Opening hours: Roughly 9:00 am till 6:00 pm but they may go on a little later. 

You will find these places all over Beijing, you just need to look for these characters – 足疗.

But be prepared for these to hurt. It’s not soft and relaxing, however, you will feel much better afterwards. 

Although there certainly will be a language barrier, most places will understand the inevitable ‘ow.’ More often than not your pain will get plenty of laughs from the masseurs.

This definitely becomes one of the top Beijing activities, as it will set your feet right as rain after a day hiking on the Great Wall. 

Close to Tiananmen Square, you will find Dongjiaomin alley.

This street was home to the foreign legations during the Qing Dynasty at a time where China was at the mercy of the Western Powers.

It is definitely a historical point of interest in Beijing.

• Nearest subway: Chongwenmen line 2 and line 5 and take exit E and it’s immediately on your left. 

If you’re looking for a place to find some bargains and get lost amongst the market stalls then Xidan is a great place to start.

Many tourists end up at the Silk Market (also known as Silk Street) near Yonganli.

However, you will likely get ripped off here and will end up sharing the entire place with tourists as the locals do not shop here.

Xidan is full of bargains, hardly any tourists and an opportunity to really test your bargaining skills. 

• Nearest subway station: Xidan on line 1 and 4 

Chinese liquor consists predominantly of rice wine. The fieriest of which is called Baijiu.

More often than not this is 50% or higher and tastes like what I imagine rocket fuel tastes like.

However, do not be surprised if drinking it will attract the interests of some local Beijingers.

Beijing is home to a number of incredible temples that receive hardly any visitors wandering around them is very enjoyable.

Amongst them, some highlights would be the Fayuan Temple , close to Caishikou subway station, the Tianning Temple , close to Daguanying subway station and the White Cloud Temple just north of it. 

If you’re looking for quiet relaxing places to go in Beijing then this is a great start.

Usually, they are open from 8 am to 4 pm and cost between 10 and 20 Yuan to enter.

The chances are you that you will share your visit with barely even a handful of people.

Enjoy the opportunity to get a bit of zen in this city of 20 million.

This gorgeous town way out in West Beijing is nestled in a valley offering spectacular views and some decent hiking trails.

Although it’s a reasonable trek from the city centre it is one of the best things to do in Beijing giving you the chance to experience something more in line with many peoples perceptions of China.

The narrow alleyways that make it a fascinating place to explore and the trails into hills offer some stunning views.

The long trek out here is absolutely worth it. 

• Getting there: Take the subway Pingguoyuan on line 1 and then take a bus or a minibus from there. Drivers will find you, one way should be between 30 and 50 Yuan. 

The Great Wall of China is possibly the ultimate Beijing sightseeing spot.

There are numerous sections of the Great Wall stretching as far as Gansu in Western China.

However, it’s important to know that these sections are not all interconnected. 

It is possible to get out to the Great Wall with public transport with most of the buses going from Dongzhimen or Deshengmen bus stations.

It is possible to camp on portions of the Great Wall if you are interested in that unique experience.

Be warned, any walk on the Great Wall is no easy endeavour, so be prepared for a serious workout.

If you want to get onto the quieter and more wild sections of the wall, then check out some organized hikes that are available.

It’s certainly more expensive than taking public transport, but the routes are amazing and they will get you to some spectacular sections of the wall.

This is certainly one of the most fun things to do in Beijing.

Of all the sections around Beijing, Badaling is the one to avoid. It’s poorly restored, overcrowded and chock full of tourist tat.

Particularly great sections are Gubeikou, Mutianyu , Simatai and Jinshanling . 

Beijing Travel Guide

Now that you know all the great Beijing activities to check out on your next visit, I want to help you plan the rest of your trip.

In this Beijing travel guide, I’ll share with you tips on how to get around, where to stay, and most importantly, where to eat!

Getting Around Beijing

English is not widely spoken in Beijing, which means that you will definitely need to make the most of translation apps and a hearty dose of sign language occasionally. 

Beijing’s subway system is excellent and cheap.

The maximum you can pay for a journey is 9 Yuan, approximately USD$1.25.

The exception is if you take the airport express line with is 25 Yuan return.

You can pick up a subway card that you can pre-charge. You will need to pay a 20 Yuan deposit which is returned when you return the card.

Curiously they are not available at every station. But generally, the larger stations will have them.

To buy one simply show them this 我要买地铁卡 and then hold up your fingers to indicate how many.

The chances of finding an English speaking subway worker is slim to none. These cards also work on the buses.

Do be aware that subways end at 11:00 pm at the latest.

Beijing’s bus network is absolutely outstanding. The announcements are in English and Mandarin Chinese. However, the timetables at bus stops are usually only in Mandarin.

Download Baidu maps (the Chinese version of google maps) and you can use this to work out which buses you need to take.

Taxi is a potentially good option. However, scams do operate and with various ride-sharing services hailing a cab can be a frustrating affair.

Also, Beijing’s rush hour traffic is a truly awful thing to be caught in so be aware. 

Where to Stay in Beijing 

The best place to stay is probably the Dongcheng district, which is really the heart of Beijing.

Although there would be plenty of other people that would argue differently.

Whatever you decide, the nearer you are to a subway station, the better.

The Peking International Youth Hostel is located in the heart of the Gulou area, which is home to some of the cities most pulsating hutongs.

Incidentally, there are a number of great places to eat in the area, as well as hutongs galore to explore.

This place consistently gets excellent reviews from travellers.

Being in one of the cities most central locations public transport links are excellent, but hailing a taxi in this area can be difficult.

This great little courtyard option is in the heart of Dongcheng making it a short walk to some of the cities best bits.

Also if you want a quintessential Chinese experience then staying in a courtyard hotel like this a must.

In addition, the area surrounding the hotel is great to explore. Like the Peking International Youth Hostel, the public transport links are excellent but hailing a taxi can be a pain.

In the mornings there are plenty of food carts nourishing Beijingers with jianbing (煎饼), a pancake with egg, lettuce, meat and some other bits, a great way to start the day.

This excellent value hotel is about 10 minutes walk from Tiananmen square and finds itself on the edge of the funky hutong area Dashilian’r, again with an almost never-ending ‘r.’

There are a number of awesome hutongs to explore in this area, a perfect evening activity.

Head south-west down towards Caishikou through Dashilian’r. This area is full of shops and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative head south-east towards Qiaowan subway station.

This absolute gem of a hotel is hidden on Baochao hutong in the heart of the Gulou district, one of Bejing’s funkiest spots.

Check out nearby Nanluoguxiang and Beiluoguxiang, these alleyways are chock full of people and action.

If you’re looking for some real luxury it is possible to hire entire hutong homes giving you your own piece of privacy in the heart of Beijing’s hutongs.

Offering a variety of excellent spaces, top-notch food, a courtyard feel and wonderful rooftop views, this is a gem in every sense of the word. 

Eating in Beijing 

Chinese cuisine sometimes seems like an unending adventure of flavours, spices and styles and Beijing is the best place to sample it.

Nowhere else in China can you find such a wide range of phenomenal Chinese cuisine.

Simply put Beijing is the best place in China to sample the stunning variety of Chinese cuisine has to offer. 

These restaurants are some of my favourites. But as a word of warning, do not expect much English to be spoken.

Also, food hygiene standards are not the same in China as they are in the West. However, the Chinese have a saying 苍蝇馆子 which literally translates as the best restaurants are the ones with flies .

Zha Jiang Mian (炸酱面) – This dry salty noodle dish is classic Beijing fare and you can find it all over the city.

There are a number of excellent hole in the wall noodle restaurants around the Gulou/Jiaodaokou areas of the city that serve an excellent version of this dish. 

This classic Sichuan/Chongqing delicacy can also be found all over Beijing.

Check out Hiadilao (海底捞), one of the biggest restaurant chains in China or Huangmen (黄门). They can be found all over the city. 

A tray of steaming crawfish that have been cooked in some seriously spicy sauce is certainly not the tidiest thing to eat but it is simply outstanding.

Head to Tian Yi Ge (天一阁) very close to Dongzhimen subway station on the edge of ghost street.

If this isn’t your cup of tea then there is a huge menu serving other Chinese classics. 

Head to the phenomenal Long Men Xia (龙门峡) on Jiao Dao Kou East Street (交道口东大街) to sample so excellent Beijing BBQ.

Do not expect English to be spoken and the menu is written in Chinese.

However, the staff will be willing to help you to translate!

Located on Andingmennei Dajie (安定门内大街) you will find the excellent Zhang Ji (张记烤羊腿).

As well as serving whole roast legs of lamb, they also have amazing chuan’r (串 skewered meat cooked over a barbecue). 

Pronounced chwar , with what seems like an endless ‘r’ at times, you can find this all over this city.

In the summer these small restaurants spill out onto the street.

Enjoy skewered meat and vegetables washed down with a couple of beers.

Check out Stone Age (石器时代) for some excellent options. 

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The perfect 3 days in taipei itinerary [2024 guide], related posts, falling in love with shaxi, china, camping on the great wall of china (the complete guide), 1 thought on “26 awesome things to do in beijing, china (2024 guide)”.

Many thanks for this great article with things-to-do in Beijing.

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19 quick and helpful Beijing travel tips (2024)

Posted by Gayle Aggiss | Updated December 16, 2023 | Travel

Beijing is one of the oldest cities in the world and it’s packed with history and culture.

It’s also one of the largest cities in the world. Home to around 20 million people, Beijing plays host to a huge number of travelers every year.

This combination means you’ll probably find the capital of China more comfortable to travel in than other cities that don’t see as many tourists, as it’s set up for travelers.

However, beyond the surface level, it’s still very different to western countries in a number of ways. Those differences can easily trip up new visitors.

I’ve lived and worked in China, and I’ve traveled around Beijing. So, let me help you ensure your vacation is more fun and exploration than trouble and confusion.

Alright, here are the best Beijing travel tips!

1. Get the right visa

Get the L visa to travel up to a month. Image by i viewfinder on Shutterstock.

For most people, getting a Chinese visa isn’t easy compared to the visa process for some other countries.

There is Visa Free Transit if you’re from a certain country and you want to stopover in China for up to 72 hours on the way to somewhere else.

But most people have to get the L visa (tourist visa) which gives you up to 30 days to explore this magnificent country.

Make sure you start the visa process early too, because you don’t want to be rushing around at the last moment getting all the paperwork organized.

2. Work out how you want to pay

Even markets prefer digital payments. Image by Freer on Shutterstock.

Like elsewhere in China, the locals in Beijing love their technology and this impacts how they pay for things.

Most of the time, you’ll see them paying using their phone, a trend that hasn’t yet become widespread in many other countries.

So, expect most places to take digital payments when you’re in Beijing. Even small food stands prefer phone payments.

If you want to join in, you can set up Alipay or WeChat Pay on your phone and link your credit card. You’ll just need to provide some personal details including your passport details.

If you’re not comfortable handing over your details, you’ll need to use cash. Try to get low-denomination notes, as smaller stores often don’t have change for big notes.

The ATMs in Beijing only dispense 100 yuan notes.

Oh, and credit cards are hardly ever used in China, so while it’s good to have different payment methods as back-up, you probably won’t use your plastic cards (apart from at the hotel).

I highly recommend using Alipay or WeChat Pay. It makes things so much easier.

3. Don’t drink the tap water

Only drink bottled water in Beijing. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

Whatever you do, don’t drink the tap water in Beijing. And don’t swallow water when you’re in the shower because the effects will be horrible.

Not even the locals can drink the water in China, so it’s even worse for travelers who aren’t used to the local microbiome.

Get used to drinking bottled water when you’re in Beijing. You’ll find it sold everywhere, because like I said, even the locals drink bottled.

And while you can brush your teeth with tap water, I choose not to. And I’ve always left Beijing with a trouble-free tummy.

4. Prepare for the language barrier

Having bi-lingual directions can help. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

You will find some people who speak English in the city center, but probably not as many as you might think.

Only a small percentage of the local people speak English (or are willing to speak it). It’s usually the younger demographic, so there’s a lot of people who won’t be able to understand you at all.

Chinese people tend to be a little shy about their English-speaking abilities. If they think that they might make a mistake, they’ll often pretend they can’t speak or understand English at all rather than risk this.

This may leave you struggling to get around, especially if you’re traveling solo or you’re not part of a tour group.

But it actually isn’t as hard as you think to travel in a place where you don’t speak the language. Here are some ideas to help:

• Have your accommodation name and address in Chinese characters on your phone, or carry around your hotel’s business card
• Download a translation app that works in China and can be used offline
• Learn some basic words or even the numbers which will help you in stores
• Screenshot key phrases and keep them on your phone to show to people

Also, be prepared to use lots of body language and to look ridiculous when you do it!

5. Always carry your passport

Your most important possession in China! Image by Pexels.

Carry your passport wherever you go in Beijing.

You’ve probably heard this tip before traveling to a lot of different countries, but it’s one of the most important Beijing travel tips.

I can’t tell you how many times I was stopped by officials for a passport check in Beijing. Thankfully, I followed this piece of advice, otherwise the consequences could have been dire.

You’ll also need your passport to purchase tickets for attractions and even get on the high-speed trains, so just keep it close.

6. Visit the big attractions, and the smaller ones

The Temple of Heaven. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

There are countless things to see and do in Beijing. The biggest attractions that people tend to head for are:

• The Great Wall of China
• Forbidden City (also called Palace Museum)
• Tiananmen Square
• Temple of Heaven
• Summer Palace.

While I recommend visiting all these attractions (especially The Great Wall – it’s the best place), consider doing other things too, if you have the time.

For example, you could visit the quirky 798 Art District, sift through antiques at Panjiayuan Market, try the silk market, or even take a day trip to Tianjin . It’s just an hour away on the bullet train.

Just a few years ago, Universal Beijing Resort opened up. While it’s obviously very touristy, and quite expensive by local standards, it’s still a super-fun day out. You can read more in this Beijing travel guide .

The city is also known for hosting the Olympics, twice. While the National Stadium, known as the Bird’s Nest, is famous the world over, there’s usually not much to do there.

7. Forget personal space

Wangfujing Market is always busy. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

This piece of advice is one of the most important and jarring for travelers and it’s also one of the hardest to explain.

Just don’t expect to have your personal space respected when you’re in Beijing. In fact, the idea of personal space doesn’t really exist in Beijing (or in China as a whole, for that matter).

Beijing is a huge, busy city and everywhere is crowded. During your time there, you will get pushed, stepped on, bumped into, and cut off when walking.

And the locals won’t say “excuse me” when they do it. In fact, they probably won’t even notice they’ve done it at all.

Whatever you do, don’t get angry about this. It’s not personal and really is just part of the Chinese culture . And if you stay for long, you’ll probably pick up this behavior as well, it’s just so accepted in China.

It’s also much easier to get around if you’re a little more aggressive and don’t care about personal space.

In fact, this was part of my own reverse culture shock. When I got home from China, I walked towards an escalator and deliberately cut off someone else who was ahead of me.

He stared at me like I was the rudest person in the world, and I got a huge shock when I realized that my behavior had changed in such a short time.

I literally had to relearn my own country’s ‘acceptable’ behaviors!

8. Bring an adapter

Bring one of these so you can stay connected. Image by Paralaxis on Shutterstock.

Beijing uses lots of different kinds of power plugs.

Depending on where you stay, you’ll find A, C, and I plug sockets, so if you want to charge your electronics, then make sure you have adapters to match.

You may also need a voltage converter to keep your electronics safe, so make sure you buy an all-in-one adapter/converter.

9. Prepare yourself for the toilets

A local squat toilet. Image supplied by Gayle Aggiss.

You’ve probably heard over and over that Beijing is a big, modern city and it is.

But this doesn’t mean that it’s western and this applies particularly to the toilets. Yes, you will come across a lot of squat toilets in Beijing. And yes, you will probably have to use them.

I wish I could tell you that the squat toilets aren’t as bad as some people say, but for me they were a constant challenge.

My advice is to always have toilet paper with you (the toilets usually won’t have any) and avoid any puddles you see on your way into your stall.

You should also carry a bottle of sanitizer with you wherever you go, as many bathrooms in Beijing don’t have soap.

Also, remember that China’s sewerage system isn’t set up to handle toilet paper, so you usually can’t flush it down the toilet. Put it in the provided bin instead and then wash your hands really well because the bins are often overflowing.

I’ve written a whole article on Chinese toilets if you want to find out more.

10. Just accept the noises

Beijingers love slurping their soup. Image by Gowithstock on Shutterstock.

Chinese culture is very different to western cultures and nowhere is this more obvious than in restaurants or in the streets.

The first time I sat down in a restaurant and heard the slurping I was appalled. But I got used to it over time, even if I couldn’t do it myself.

Slurping just isn’t considered rude in China, which kind of makes sense considering it’s natural to slurp when you drink soup.

Seeing and hearing Chinese spitting is a little harder to accept. Dodging a motorcycle rider who pulls over to spit near your feet in the gutter is confronting, as is dodging the puddles on the sidewalk.

But you do get used to it if you’re there long enough. It’s just part of local life.

11. Monitor the air quality

Gray skies over the Palace Museum. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

In recent years, the air pollution in Beijing has really improved.

Essentially, factories and industry have moved further away, but there has been some government intervention too.

You can still get the odd bad day, particularly in the winter months or when there’s the occasional dust storm.

There’s nothing you can do to change the city’s air pollution; all you can do is be prepared for it. Here’s how:

• If you have respiratory issues, try to avoid the city in winter when the air quality is the worst
• Wear a proper mask
• Look out for official air warnings on the really bad days and visit indoor sites on those days
• Avoid strenuous activities like hikes on bad air days.

Here’s a good website to track the air quality in Beijing, but if you’re fit and healthy, you’ve got nothing to worry about!

12. Get a VPN

Stay connected in China with a VPN. Image by Tracy Le Blanc on Pexels.

Out of all the Beijing travel tips I could give you, this one is extremely important for anyone who goes into withdrawal without their favorite internet sites.

China’s firewall is real, and a lot of popular western websites and apps are blocked by it. This includes sites you probably take for granted and use for everything such as Facebook, YouTube, Google, Gmail, Snapchat, and Instagram.

If you want to use one if not all of these sites during your time in the Chinese capital, then you’ll need to use a virtual private network (VPN) .

Some of the most popular and effective VPNs for Beijing are:

Top tip : Make sure that you download it before you arrive in China, as it won’t download once you arrive.

13. Don’t tip

Tipping isn’t part of Chinese culture. Image by Saelanlerez on Shutterstock.

Tipping is unnecessary in Beijing and if you try to tip, it will confuse people.

The only time you should tip is when it’s requested. If you take a private tour, then your tour company may suggest you leave a tip, but otherwise, don’t worry about it.

I never tipped during my travels to Beijing, or anywhere in China.

14. Practice your photo smiles

Having photos in the Hutongs. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

China’s capital city sees a lot of travelers from inside of China, many of them tourists from more remote areas who haven’t seen westerners in person before.

This means that you might attract attention while in Beijing. And this kind of attention usually isn’t subtle. You may find that people take photos of you as you walk down the street or ask you to take a selfie with them.

You can say no to this of course, but if you have a minute, then why not say yes?

The people asking are usually very excited and polite and it doesn’t hurt anyone to smile at the camera and make someone’s day!

15. Be patient with transport

Packed trains in peak hour. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

You will need to be patient when it comes to getting around Beijing.

Between the language barrier, the crowds, and the sheer size of Beijing’s public transportation network, it can be challenging, particularly if you’re visiting for the first time .

To be quite frank, if you want to see a lot in a short time, then it’s better to organize a car through your hotel’s front desk or a tour operator , especially if you’re visiting The Great Wall of China which is quite far out of the city.

This will save you a lot of time and isn’t as expensive as you might think.

If you’re determined to use public transport then expect crowds, give yourself plenty of time to get anywhere, and try to avoid using public transport during peak hours.

You should also expect to get lost, and to have to find your way back again, so patience is needed here as well.

And you’ll also need patience if you’re taking cars anywhere too. Beijing’s rush hour is legendary and can turn a short trip into an hours-long expedition.

You can rest assured that Beijing has plenty of subway stations. Just have a navigation app ready on your phone so you know where you’re going once you hop off.

You’re probably familiar with Google Maps but there are other China map apps too.

16. Plan your trip to the Great Wall

Some parts of the wall are less touristy and great for hiking. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

I’ve mentioned the Great Wall of China a few times now, but this really needs to be a Beijing travel tip all on its own.

After all, the Great Wall is supremely iconic and what Beijing is best known for .

This awe-inspiring construction dates back centuries, and it meanders through numerous provinces over thousands of miles. It’s not just located near Beijing.

However, the best preserved parts are closest to Beijing, which is why everyone heads there.

Here are the most popular parts of the Great Wall of China:

• Mutianyu – the best restored, and you can even toboggan down (1.5 hours drive)
• Badaling – most popular with Chinese tourists and the busiest (1.5 hours drive)
• Jinshanling – the most beautiful and wild, great for hiking (2-3 hours drive)
• Simitai – also good for hiking, and offers night tours (2-3 hours drive).

It’s important to plan your trip to the wall carefully, as each section is different and caters to different kinds of tourists.

And, they’re all different distances from Beijing (though a one-day return trip is enough time for most sections).

The folks over at China Highlights have a nice article which goes into more detail about the different sections.

17. Beware of scammers

Scammers are known to be in this area of the city. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

If you’re a first-time traveler in China, you really need to hear this.

If anyone approaches you, especially near Tiananmen Square or the Forbidden City, and asks you to come with them to try some tea, definitely say “no”.

It’s a well-known scam , where after sampling a few small cups of tea, you’re essentially locked in the teahouse until you pay the exorbitant amount they demand.

You may also be approached by people offering to be your tour guide, especially in the Forbidden City area. Be very, very careful.

18. Come in spring or fall

Weather conditions can vary greatly in Beijing. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

So, when is the best time to come to Beijing?

If you don’t like extreme hot and cold temperatures, then spring and fall are the most pleasant seasons to visit Beijing.

Just note that this is when most travelers like to visit the city too.

No matter what season you come, it’s a good idea to avoid Chinese New Year and the other Chinese public holidays because everywhere will be unbelievably crowded. Even the hotels will be more expensive.

19. Avoid the Ming Tombs

It’s pretty, but this is kind of it. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

A lot of tour groups stop in at the Ming Tombs on the way to the Great Wall.

Honestly, there’s not a whole lot to see here. And I’m sorry to say, there are no visible tombs.

I’d head straight for the Wall and spend more time there instead.

The final Beijing travel tip

This isn’t really specific to Beijing, but it’s something that I highly recommend for anywhere in China.

Just remember that the way you’ve always done things, the way that your family and culture have always done things, isn’t necessarily the right way to do them in China.

People tend to think that their way of doing things and looking at the world is the only or even the best way. But it isn’t.

During my time in Beijing and in China at large, I found that things that seemed strange at first came to feel natural and even appropriate over time.

Travel demands a flexible mind. And if you visit Beijing with a flexible mind, you’ll have a much better and stress-free trip.

I know you’ll have a great time in Beijing. And don’t forget your VPN!

I hope you liked my Beijing travel tips. Now, check out the China travel tips page for even more helpful advice.

Main image credit: Supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

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Faq about beijing travel, is beijing open for travel.

It sure is. Following a few years of being practically shut off from the rest of the world, Beijing, along with the rest of China, is now open for travel. There are no longer any Covid restrictions.

Is it safe to travel to Beijing?

It sure is. Beijing, like the rest of China, is very safe for foreign tourists. Crime against foreigners is practically unheard of. If you’re prone to respiratory problems, you may want to bring some good quality masks in case of the odd bad pollution day or dust storm.

Is Beijing worth visiting?

Absolutely! It’s the cultural capital of China and it’s very different to other Chinese cities. There’s unique food, a local dialect, and countless historical sites. You could spend weeks in Beijing and still not experience everything.

Why is Beijing a good place to visit?

It’s full of history and culture, making it an absolute treat for tourists. There’s the world-famous Great Wall of China within a few hours’ reach, Forbidden City (or Palace Museum), Temple of Heaven, ancient hutongs (back alleys), Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, and so much more.

Commercial relationship disclosure: The Helpful Panda has commercial arrangements with organizations that may appear on this page, such as affiliate links. See our terms for more info.

Gayle Aggiss

Gayle loves learning and is intensely curious about the world. This curiosity has driven her to travel and work overseas, including China and Vietnam. Gayle is from Perth, Western Australia. You can follow her on LinkedIn .

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Beijing

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Beijing, only eclipsed by Shanghai in terms of size, is not only the political center of China - a position it has held for more than 800 years - it also plays an important role in the nation's cultural, economic, scientific, and academic life. Located in the northwest of the North China Plain, not far from the western slopes of the Yanshan mountains, Beijing - still sometimes referred to as Peking - is a great place from which to explore this dynamic country due to its dense network of road, rail, and airline connections with other major cities.

Beijing itself has no shortage of unique sightseeing opportunities . It is home to some of the country's best-known tourist attractions , including a section of the famous Great Wall of China at Badaling Pass . Among the city's many historical and cultural points of interest are the Imperial Palace, Beihai Park, Coal Hill Park, and the Heavenly Temple, most of them within the well-preserved historic city center.

Other things to do include exploring the mammoth Tiananmen Square, numerous important temples, the new construction brought about by the city's increased prosperity and major events such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics. When you've had your fill of sightseeing, enjoy the city's great shopping and dining.

Plan your trip to the Far East with our list of the top tourist attractions in Beijing, China.

See also: Where to Stay in Beijing

1. The Palace Museum and the Forbidden City

2. the great wall of china, 3. tiananmen square, 4. beihai park, 5. the temple of heaven, 6. the summer palace, 7. beijing national stadium, 8. the lama temple (yonghe), 9. beijing capital museum & the national centre for the performing arts, 10. beijing ancient observatory, 11. the fayuan temple, 12. coal hill park (jingshan), 13. the beijing temple of confucius, 14. beijing zoo, 15. the old summer palace at yuanmingyuan park, 16. 798 art zone, 17. national museum of china, where to stay in beijing for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in beijing, beijing, china - climate chart.

The Imperial Palace, also known as the Forbidden City, is China's most significant attraction and can trace its origins back to the Yuan Dynasty of the 13th century. Its immense size is the result of enlargements made during the Ming Dynasty between 1406 and 1420, after the capital was transferred here from Nanking.

All told, this beautiful palace has been home to 24 Ming and Qing Emperors, earning its nickname of the Forbidden City due to the fact ordinary citizens weren't allowed access. The complex covers 720,000 square meters, all of it surrounded by a 10-meter-high wall with towers in the four corners and a 50-meter-wide moat. It's divided into an area used for ceremonial and administrative purposes, as well as the private quarters once used by the Emperor and his concubines.

Highlights include the Meridian Gate, built in 1420; the Golden River Bridges, a network of five richly decorated white marble bridges; and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, which functioned as the Emperor's banquet hall.

Other places to visit include the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the largest hall in the Inner Court, and the Hall of Military Courage, a permanent residence and private audience hall for the emperors. The impressive 35-meter-high Hall of Supreme Harmony is notable as the country's largest surviving wooden building and for its splendidly decorated gilded imperial throne.

Located just a short walk away from The Palace Museum stands the historic Imperial College (Guozijian). Founded in 1287 by Kublai Khan and only closed in 1900, this beautiful structure served as the country's national university, and often saw the Emperors of old visit to further their education and knowledge. The complex covers more than 10,000 square meters, much of which can be explored.

Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng, Beijing

Official site: https://en.dpm.org.cn

Beijing is only an hour away from what is undoubtedly one of the country's most famous historic structures: the Great Wall of China. Here at Badaling Pass, the first part of the Wall to be opened to tourists in the 1950s, you can enjoy a walk along an impressive section of the Great Wall dating from the 16th century and standing up to eight meters high.

Along the way, you'll be able to enjoy numerous towers and parapets offering superb views over the surrounding dramatic scenery. While a hilly walk, you can in fact take a pleasant cable-car ride up to the wall.

This much-visited section of the Great Wall can get busy, so if possible try to plan your trip for an early arrival.

Another popular spot to experience the Great Wall is Mutianyu, parts of which date back to the 6th century. Rebuilt and expanded over the centuries, it is becoming increasingly popular for its magnificent views, which are particularly beautiful during spring and autumn.

Tiananmen Square (the Square of Heavenly Peace) is the world's largest inner-city square. Designed to hold a million people, it was built to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Chinese Republic in 1958. Considered the center of communist China, the square's symbolic importance dates back to May 4th, 1919, when students demonstrated against the Chinese provisions of the Treaty of Versailles.

Highlights of a visit include the Monument to the People's Heroes (Rénmín Yingxióng Jìniànbei), a 38-meter tall obelisk consisting of 17,000 pieces of granite and marble, and the splendid Tiananmen Gate , known as the Gate of Heavenly Peace. It was completed in 1417 and was once the main entrance to the Imperial City.

Another important gateway is Zhengyangmen , or Qianmen, the southernmost gate into Tiananmen Square. Tracing its roots back to the early 15th century and restored in the early 1900s, this imposing structure is considered one of the most important landmarks in the city.

Other features of note are the Museum of the Chinese Revolution with its exhibits illustrating the various stages of the Chinese revolution from 1919 and the development of the Communist Party, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong , where the body of Mao rests in a crystal sarcophagus.

Address: Dongcheng, Beijing

Just a short distance from the Imperial Palace , Beihai Park is one of the oldest surviving imperial gardens in Beijing. Laid out at the beginning of the 10th century, this beautiful open space takes its name from nearby Lake Beihai (North Lake) and offers many good reasons to visit.

Among the park's most important structures are the Round Fort , dating from the Yuan period of 1271-1368, and the spectacular Hall of Enlightenment . Built in 1690, the hall is home to a one-and-a-half-meter-tall Buddha carved from a single block of white jade, and a large black jade vase from the early 12th century.

Another notable feature is the opulent residence of Song Qingling in which the widow of the founder of the Republic, Sun Yat-sen, lived for 18 years until her death (it's now a museum). You'll also want to see the Living Quarters of Mei Lanfang (Mei Lanfang Guju), a famous male star of the Peking Opera who specialized in playing the role of a woman.

Also try to include the residence of Guo Moruo on your Beijing itinerary. It was here, in a home built in traditional Chinese courtyard style, that the famous writer and historian lived from 1963 until his death in 1978. Also include the beautiful 17th-century White Pagoda on the Island of Exquisite Jade on your list.

Address: 1 Wenjin St, Xicheng, Beijing

Official site: www.beihaipark.com.cn//english/index.html

The Temple of Heaven (Tiantán) dates back to 1420 and incorporates a group of some of Beijing's most sacred buildings. Surrounded by lush vegetation, these lovely old temples and shrines are set out in two sections - one rectangular; the other semi-circular - which together symbolize Heaven and Earth.

It was here that, on the day of the winter solstice, the Emperor would ascend the Heavenly Altar in solemn ceremony to pray for a good harvest and offer sacrifices in the brightly decorated Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (Qinian Dian). Built in 1420, in customary Chinese fashion of wood and entirely without nails, the hall sits on a three-tier marble terrace with balustrades and a roof covered with 50,000 blue glazed tiles (a marble plaque on the floor represents the dragon and the phoenix stone, symbols of the emperor).

Another highlight is the Hall of the Vault of Heaven (Huangqiong Yu). Erected in 153, it boasts a blue-tiled conical roof and was used to store the ceremonial plaques of Heaven and the Officials. Be sure to also visit the temple's Echo Wall , which echoes to even the quietest of voices, an effect exaggerated by three unusual echoing stones.

Address: 1 Tiantan E Road, Dongcheng Beijing

Located an easy 30-minute journey by car, bus, or taxi from the center of Beijing, the city's Summer Palace (Yíhé Yuán) is a must-visit. Dating back to the 12th century and more than 700 acres in size, it's a picture-perfect setting, which certainly befits its royal status, boasting a large 700-year-old man-made lake and beautiful gardens.

Often included on organized tours, top things to see here are the western-styled "Marble Ship" (Shifang), the Hall of Well-being and Longevity (Renshou Dian) with its elaborate throne, and the beautiful courtyard adjoining the Hall of Happiness and Longevity (Leshou Tang Hall). You'll also want to see the impressive 19th-century Great Theatre, where you can catch performances of traditional Chinese plays and music.

One of the more popular things to do, if time permits, is to take a ride aboard the small pleasure craft (kids love the dragon-themed vessels) that ferry tourists to one of the palace's temples, as well as a stroll past the traditional riverside shops on Suzhou Market Street.

Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District, Beijing

Official site: www.summerpalace-china.com/English/index.htm

Recognized the world over for its role in the spectacular Summer Olympics held in Beijing in 2008, the National Stadium (Guójia tiyùchang) - also affectionately nicknamed the Bird's Nest - is well worth a visit.

Built with a hefty price tag, this remarkable structure owes its unique design to the influences of traditional Chinese ceramics and has, since the Olympics, been used to host large cultural events and performances including opera, pop concerts, and football matches. In winter, it's turned into the world's largest manmade indoor ski slope. (English language and self-guided tours are available.)

Another nearby attraction is the National Aquatics Center . It's also known as the Water Cube for its attractive night-time display, which sees it lit up and looking like a giant ice-cube. In addition to being the site of Olympic swimming events, part of the building has been turned into the fun Watercube Waterpark.

Afterwards, be sure to stroll along the lovely Olympic Green. This pleasant parkland and green space will take you past many of the most significant buildings from the 2008 Olympics.

Address: 1 National Stadium S Road, Chaoyang

Official site: www.n-s.cn/enindex.jsp

Also known as the Yonghe Temple, the Lama Temple is one of Beijing's most attractive and best-preserved temples. Completed in 1745, the building served a political purpose by giving Lamaism, the religion of the then just annexed Tibet, an official seat in the capital. It was built to generous proportions and equipped with many valuable works of art.

Its most important feature is the Hall of the Kings of Heaven (Tian Wang Dian) with its statue of Buddha surrounded by the four kings who are provided with symbolic objects (a toad, sword, snake, and shield). Also noteworthy is the statue of Weituo, the protector of Buddhism, holding an iron staff.

Other important buildings include the Pavilion of the Four-tongued Stele (Yubi Ting), which houses a stele dating back to 1792 that contains the history of the Lama religion written in Chinese, Manchurian, Tibetan, and Mongolian; and the Hall of the Buddhist Wheel (Falun Dian), the teaching and assembly hall of the monastery, its interior dominated by a six-meter-tall statue, two thrones, and numerous sacred manuscripts.

Be sure to also see the largest building at the Lama Temple, the Pavilion of Four Thousand Fortunes (Wangfu Ge), with its enormous 18-meter-high sandalwood statue.

Address: 12 Yonghegong Street, Dongcheng, Beijing

Arts and culture buffs are extremely well catered to in Beijing. Of particular interest is the excellent Beijing Capital Museum, one of the country's leading art museums. Opened in 1981, the museum boasts a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient items of porcelain and bronze, traditional calligraphy and artwork, along with many fine statues from Chinese and other Asian cultures.

Other highlights of its collection of more than 200,000 important cultural artifacts - many originating from in and around Beijing - include the huge stele of Emperor Qian Long, weighing more than 40 tons, standing nearly seven meters in height, and containing ancient scripts and writings.

Another modern Beijing landmark worth visiting is the National Centre for the Performing Arts (Guójia dà jùyuàn), also nicknamed the Giant Egg. Considered one of the best opera houses in Asia, the building opened in 2001 and has since hosted many of the world's leading operatic performers (it's particularly worth visiting if you're able to take in a performance).

Address: 16 Fuxingmen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing

Completed in 1442, the fortress-like Beijing Ancient Observatory (Beijing Gu Guanxiàngtái) lies in the east of the city near the station quarter and was continuously in use right up until 1929. It is widely considered one of the oldest such observatories in the world.

Among the 10,000-square-meter facility's many fascinating old pre-telescopic instruments are a celestial globe dating from 1673 and an 18th-century armillary globe depicting the planets (at least those that were known at the time), along with a number of large bronze instruments designed by the Jesuit missionary Ferdinand Verbiest. Once part of the old city walls, this tall brick tower serves as a museum offering a glimpse into the surprising amount of knowledge of the stars and planets that existed at the time.

Address: 2 Dongbiaobei Hutong, Jian Wai Da Jie, Dongcheng, Beijing

Fayuan Temple (Fayuán Sì) - also known as the Source of Law Temple - dates back to the year AD 645 and consists of several halls where many ancient stone inscriptions are kept, the oldest dating from the 7th century. The temple has witnessed many of Beijing's most important historic events, including serving as a prison for Emperor Huizong in the 12th century, a place of examination for the highest offices of state, as well as a botanical gardens.

Today, the temple is a place of worship and the seat of the Buddhist Academy , the most important educational establishment in China. Other highlights include the bell and drum towers in the first courtyard; the Hall of the Kings of Heaven with its fine statues; the Mahavira Hall housing Buddhas of the present, past, and future represented in 18 Luohan figures; and, one of the temple's most precious objects, a Han Dynasty (AD 25-220) ceramic statue in the Dabianjue Tang Hall.

Another Buddhist site worth visiting is the Zhihua Temple . Dating from 1444, it's one of the most important original Ming period complexes in Beijing's old town. Of particular note is the two-story Tathagata Hall (Rulai Dian), named after its statue of the transcendental Buddha (it's also known as 10,000 Buddha Hall for the many small Buddha figurines adorning the walls).

Address: 7 Fayuansi Front St, Xicheng, Beijing

Located directly opposite the North Gate of the Imperial Palace, Coal Hill Park (Jingshan) offers some of the best views in Beijing, particularly over Beihai Park Lake and the Forbidden Palace . Taking its name from the coal that was once stored here for the Ming Emperors, this largely man-made hill - one of just a handful in Beijing - was started around 1416 during the construction of the Imperial Palace.

After years of receiving rubble from the old city wall and large quantities of soil from excavation of the moat surrounding the palace, the once-low natural mound soared to its current height. A highlight of a visit, in addition to the many splendid gardens and walkways, is an old acacia tree from which the last Ming emperor was supposed to have hung himself in 1644.

Address: 44 Jingshan W St, Xicheng District, Beijing

A short walk from the Lama Temple in a pleasant side alley spanned by ornamental gates is the Beijing Temple of Confucius. Built in 1302, it's dedicated to the great philosopher and teacher, Confucius, whose teachings dominated public and private life for centuries.

One of China's best-known Confucius temples, the Beijing Temple once hosted many elaborate ceremonies honoring its namesake under the leadership of the emperor. The forecourt harbors 198 steles with inscriptions naming all 51,624 Confucian scholars who, after 1416, successfully passed the highest examinations of the state until abolished in 1904.

A highlight is the Hall of Great Achievements (Dacheng Dian). It's home to numerous shrines dedicated to Confucius, his students, and other Confucian philosophers, as well as many old musical instruments and other ritual items used in the celebrations, which take place on the large terrace in front of the hall.

Another religious site worth a visit for its fine exterior (non-Muslims aren't permitted to enter) is Niu Jie Qingzhen Si Mosque , built in AD 995. Beijing's oldest and largest mosque, it's in the Muslim quarter and includes a minaret, a six-cornered moon observatory tower, and two pavilions featuring numerous steles with Chinese and Arabic inscriptions.

Address: 15 Guozijian Street, Dongcheng, Beijing

Located in the northwest area of the city, the Beijing Zoo (Bei jing dòng wù yuán) covers an area of more than 220 acres and was established in 1906, making it one of the oldest zoos in China.

Boasting an impressive collection of close to 15,000 animals from 1,000 species - the largest in the country - the zoo includes many rare native species such as South China tigers, snow leopards, golden snub-nosed monkeys, and pandas, along with some not so rare, such as the red-crowned crane and Pere David's deer.

Species from across the world are also well represented and include elephants, lions, and jaguars, all spread around grounds that closely resemble classical Chinese gardens, complete with dense woods, meadows, rivers, streams, and ponds, along with a number of pleasant gazebos and terraces. The zoo also has a well-stocked aquarium.

Address: 137 Xizhimen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing

Although now mostly just ruins, the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) is located in Yuanmingyuan Park in northwestern Beijing and is well worth a visit. Once the imperial residence of the Qianlong Emperor, it was considered one of the most spectacular achievements of Chinese architecture and garden design when constructed in the 1700s, and was for a time known as the "Garden of Gardens."

Looted and destroyed by the British and French during the Second Opium War in 1860 - the palace was home to a vast and important collection of art and antiquities - it took hundreds of troops three days to burn and demolish the site.

These days, the grounds serve as a popular public park, and the old ruins are a delight to explore. To gain a picture of just how spectacular the old palace once was, be sure to pop into the small on-site museum with its reconstructions and models.

Official site: www.yuanmingyuanpark.cn/sy/english/PON/

Also known as Dashanzi Art District, 798 Art Zone is a unique art community, and one of the more unusual things to do in Beijing. It grew up in and around a former military manufacturing complex in Beijing. Now dedicated entirely to more peaceful pursuits, these interesting old factories and warehouses are home to everything from galleries to studios and exhibition spaces hosting events dedicated to the arts.

It's a delightful area to explore, with at every turn some interesting (and sometimes challenging) art on display (or performed) by artists from across China and from around the world. While still very much a hub of artistic endeavors, in recent years 798 Art Zone has also become increasingly gentrified, and is now as much a draw for its hip shopping opportunities - there's everything here from book stores and galleries to designer fashion boutiques - along with great cafés and restaurants.

Address: 2 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang, Beijing

Occupying a large chunk of the east section of Tiananmen Square, the impressive National Museum of China is the second most visited art museum in the world after the Louvre in Paris (and also one of the largest).

Opened in 2003 and completely renovated in 2011, the museum serves as a place of education regarding the country's rich history, with a particular focus on exhibits related to culture and art. Expect to spend many an hour here as there is so much to see in each of the museum's 48 exhibition halls.

Particularly interesting among the museum's more than one million artifacts is the huge Simuwu Ding, the world's heaviest ancient bronzeware, as well as collections of rare gold, jade, and ceramic artifacts from various dynasties through the ages. Other interesting exhibits deal with the first human settlements in the country, as well as the founding of the communist state.

If you're planning a lengthy visit, note there's a café and teahouse serving refreshments. Also, a strict "no-selfie stick" policy is in place, so if you have one, be prepared to leave it back at your hotel or at the coat check.

Address: 16 E Chang'an Ave, Dongcheng, Beijing

Oofficial site: http://en.chnmuseum.cn

Luxury Hotels:

• For those unconcerned about price, you can't do much better than to book a stay at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Beijing . This elegant five-star luxury hotel offers a variety of well-appointed rooms and suites boasting stylish decor, as well as amenities including multiple restaurants and a deluxe spa.
• Another well-regarded luxury option is the exquisite Waldorf Astoria Beijing , popular for its central location, sizable bedrooms, and even larger suites, along with amenities including a fitness center, hot-tub, and indoor swimming pool.
• Also worthy of consideration is the all-suite The Peninsula Beijing , a five-star hotel boasting spacious accommodations with separate living and sleeping areas, all decorated with delightful Chinese themes.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel is a popular mid-range high-rise hotel, which features a pleasant contemporary design, rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, along with multiple restaurants, an indoor pool, and a sauna.
• Shichahai Shadow Art Performance Hotel is another great option in this price category and features pleasant Chinese-themed public spaces; a variety of room sizes, from cozy singles to spacious family suites; and many amenities, including a café and concierge service (and yes, free shadow puppet shows, too).
• If you're looking for a great place to stay near the historic Huguosi Hutong area, the Sofu Hotel is an excellent choice and comes with modern, comfortable rooms and lounges all just a short stroll from great shopping and dining.

Budget Hotels:

• The wonderfully named Double Happiness Beijing Courtyard Hotel is a pleasant three-star affair, which boasts outstanding staff and an authentic Chinese feel, along with traditional-styled furniture in its rooms, some of which overlook a leafy courtyard.
• Also popular in the budget hotel category, the Nostalgia Hotel Beijing Xidan is just a short walk from the city's metro and, as its name suggests, comes with a fun nostalgic feel and vintage décor.
• A great option for younger couples and friends traveling together is the Beijing Downtown Travelotel , which offers clean, comfortable accommodations along with a variety of tour options, all just steps away from the Imperial City.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beijing Day Trips: While there are plenty of fun things to see and do in Beijing, try to find time in your China travel itinerary to see the sights surrounding the country's capital. Top day trips from Beijing include a visit to the Great Wall, naturally. But be sure to visit other points of interest, too, such as: scenic Fragrant Hills Park, a fun mountain area named after the fact that its peak looks like an incense burner; the Caves of Zhoukoudian and the Peking Man Museum; and the Marco Polo Bridge, named after the famed explorer who traveled the area extensively.

Other Great Cities : Thanks to the many easy connecting flights available from Beijing's modern international airport, some of the most interesting of China's cities are not much more than a couple of hours away. Popular destinations to fly to from Beijing include Shanghai , where you can explore the city's historic Bund promenade; Chengdu , the home of the famous Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (check out their unique panda experiences!); and Hangzhou , perhaps best known for beautiful West Lake, making this city one of the most picturesque in the country.

China Outdoor Adventures: Adventure seekers are also well-catered to in China. Some of the best experiences are in the northwestern-most part of the country, were you'll find Dunhuang , famous throughout the ages for its prominent location on the historic Silk Road trade route. Here, you can enjoy such outdoor adventures as camel trekking through the rugged Gobi Desert, as well as exploring some of the most remote sections of the Great Wall. There's also plenty of outdoor fun to be had enjoying a cruise on the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo . Highlights include a chance to drift past some of the most dramatic, breathtaking scenery in the country, and afterward embark on a smaller river aboard a traditional bamboo canoe.

More on China

Three-Day Itinerary

Things to Do

Shopping Streets

Great Wall of China

Tiananmen Square

Forbidden City

Best Restaurants

Foods to Try

Nightlife in Beijing

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Beijing Airport Guide

Top Neighborhoods

Getting Around

Getting Around Beijing: Guide to Public Transportation

Taxis, buses, peddle bikes, and cars all contribute to major traffic and unforgettable rush hours in Beijing. Fortunately, the Beijing Subway provides a more convenient way to get around, and 10 million people use it every day. Once you’ve got your Yikatong card or app, navigating this massive system of 23 lines and some 390 stations will feel manageable. (Plus, all the signs are in English as well as Chinese.)

It might seem daunting to figure out the second largest subway system in the world, but with the following guide and a little bit of pluck, you’ll have this sorted before you can say “Zàijiàn!” (“See you later!”).

How to Ride the Beijing Subway

Fare rates: Fares are based on distance traveled, except for the Airport Express Lines, which have fixed rates. Distance-based fares range from 3 to 9 yuan (about 40 cents to $1.40). The Capital Airport Express charges 25 yuan per ride, and the Daxing Airport Express fares range from 10 to 50 yuan per ride, based on which class you choose. Children under 4 feet, 3 inches tall ride free when accompanied by an adult. If there is more than one child with one adult, only one child rides free. You can check ticket prices by downloading the Beijing Subway app.

Types of passes: The Beijing Subway has two kinds of physical tickets for tourists: single trip and a stored-value, contactless smart card called the Yikatong. Yikatongs can also be used to pay for buses, taxis, and public bicycles. If you have an iPhone or watch, simply use Apple Pay combined with Apple Wallet to buy and top up a digital card. Android users can download Easy Pass (易通行 Yitongxing) to do the same, but the app is in Chinese.

• Single trip tickets: You can purchase a single trip ticket in any Beijing Subway station from a ticket vending machine. Bring coins or 5 yuan and 10 yuan banknotes to use in the machine. Some stations have automatic ticket machines that can scan smartphones for payment via WeChat or Alipay. Each station has ticket vending machines where you can purchase single tickets or top up your Yikatong card.
• Yikatong cards: You can purchase a Yikatong card from the Customer Service Center of all subway stations, ticket windows of the Airport Express Train, Transportation Smart Card Service Centers, and some branches of the Agricultural Bank of China. You can also use WeChat and Alipay to pay at ticket machines. Tourists can purchase a three-day, seven-day, or 15-day pass on their Yikatong card, which cost 10 yuan, 20 yuan, or 40 yuan, respectively.
• Digital passes: Purchase through Apple Wallet or Easy Pass.

Hours of operation: Most lines operate from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., but that fluctuates slightly, depending on the station and line. The Airport Express opens at 6 a.m., and depending on the line, trains run every three to 10 minutes.

Delays and lost Property: To stay up to date with schedule changes, download the official Beijing Subway app or call the BJMTR service hotline at 010-639-88622 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The app also lets you register lost property. If you speak Chinese, you can follow them on Weibo or their WeChat account for updates as well.

Transfers: Major transfer stations are especially busy during public holidays and rush hour. Commuters will have longer walks between lines in older stations which are known for their long hallways. Newer stations have been designed for more efficient transfers, with some even having cross platform transfers.

Accessibility: Most stations have four exits in four directions, clearly marked in Chinese and English. For those with mobility issues, the Beijing Subway is not a good option. Most entrances are not wheelchair-friendly and have stairs or escalators. Additionally, the heavy crowding and gaps between the train and platform can be challenging.

Subway etiquette: Personal space does not exist, especially during rush hour. Do not expect people waiting on the platform to wait for those getting off before they board. Board quickly and do not be afraid to push.

Rush hour: Rush hour is extensive, running from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Do not be surprised if you get pushed by a professional train pusher during this time.

See maps, lines, routes, news, and more specifics at the official BJMTR site .

Other Transit Options

Beijing has more than 1,200 bus routes, including regular downtown lines, suburban lines, night lines, and intercity lines. You can pay by cash, use a Yikatong, the Easy Pass app, or Apple Pay. With the Yikatong Card and app, you receive a 50 percent discount on buses in the downtown area, and 20 percent discount in the Greater Beijing Metropolitan Area. Routes are charged by distance with the minimum set at 2 yuan and the maximum varying from 10 to 12 yuan, depending on the bus. (Children under 4 feet tall are free.)

Bus routes 1, 2, and 3 are specifically for tourists. Buses 1 and 2 do clockwise circuits of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Bus 3 goes to the Bird's Nest and Water Cube in Olympic Park. The fare is about 10 to 20 yuan for these buses.

Airport Transport

Subway lines: The Airport Express line links Dongzhimen, Terminal 3, and Terminal 2 of Capital Airport via Sanyuanqiao. It only takes about 20 minutes from the airport to Dongzhimen and costs 25 yuan. At Dongzhimen, passengers can transfer to Line 2 or Line 13, or at Sanyuanqiao transfer to Line 10.

The Beijing Daxing Airport line is the newest airport line and links the Beijing Daxing International Airport to Caoqiao and Daxing New City stations. The trip takes 19 minutes, costs 10 to 50 yuan, and runs from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Shuttles: The Beijing Capital Airport shuttle bus runs every 30 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and covers different routes, including to Beijing Railway Station. It costs 2 -30 yuan.

Daxing International Airport has six shuttle bus lines to the city center. Most run from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Line 6 runs only during the night shift. Tickets cost 30 yuan.

Beijing is full of taxis, and you can use your Yikatong to pay for your ride (rates begin at 13 yuan). Cabs are nearly impossible to find at rush hour, though, if you don’t have a taxi hailing app like DiDi . Download this app, or plan to stick to the subway.

Bikes are great for wandering Hutongs (narrow streets) and are also a popular transport option in Beijing—almost every road has a bike lane, and Beijing has 86,000 public bicycles for rent from docking stations . These are free the first hour and then cost you 1 yuan per hour, with a max of a 10 yuan or 20 yuan charge per day, depending on the district. You can use your Yikatong to pay for them. Alternatively, 2.35 million undocked bikes can be rented through various bikeshare apps.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is not recommended for tourists. Drivers tend to operate by a different set of standards in China than in Western countries. If you need to rent a car, though, all the information on the process can be found here . We recommend renting from Avis, as you can do it on the site in English. Prepare to spend at least two hours at the airport to get the documents and do the tests for the rental process, all located in Terminal 3.

Fares have to be negotiated beforehand with the driver. They can be a fun but pricier way to see the hutongs than by bike or walking. 

Tips for Getting Around Beijing

• Subways, buses, and bikes will almost always be a better option than taking a taxi.
• There are buses running 24 hours in the city, but the subway closes around 11 p.m.
• You can rent bikes downtown, and in Shunyi, Fangshan, and Yanqing districts from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m with 24-hour return. Other suburbs and outskirts have 24-hour rental and return.
• Every subway platform has public toilets.
• If a taxi driver refuses to use the meter, get out and get another one.
• Always have the name and address of your hotel in Chinese, as well as the place(s) you are going.

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2024 Beijing Transportation Guide | How to get to & around Beijing

Get to/away from beijing.

• Flights to Beijing

As the capital of China, Beijing is the busiest city serving international flights to major cities in almost all continents (except sub-Saharan Africa and sub-USA American), and domestic flights to every provincial capital and major cities in China. Beijing Capital Airport and Beijing Daxing Airport have served  over 160 domestic and international/regional routes which connected 136 cities .  >> Learn More about Flights to Beijing

✈ International Flights to Beijing

Passengers can fly to Beijing normally within 1 day by nonstop/connecting flights , departing from international/regional cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Seattle, Washington, Vancouver, London, Manchester, Sydney, Melbourne, Moscow, Amsterdam, Auckland, Paris, Rome, Milan, Madrid, Frankfurt, Prague, Zurich, Vienna, Munich, Berlin, Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Jeju, Bangkok, Bali, Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, Cairo, New Delhi, Doha, Hong Kong, Macao, Taipei, etc. Beijing Capital International Airport has set up 144-Hour Visa-free counters in Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, where the international or regional flights will land. >> Learn More about International Flights to Beijing

✈ Domestic Flights to Beijing

Besides the international flights from all over the world, there are also multiple domestic flights in Beijing opening to the visitors who come from/head to the other mainland cities in China including Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Wuhan, Chengdu, Chongqing, Kunming, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xiamen, Guilin, Guiyang, Zhangjiajie, Huangshan, Lhasa, etc. Most of the direct flights take about 2 to 4 hours , and the flight route covers all the provincial cities in China .

Our Customers Visiting Beijing (July, 2019)

Beijing Airports

✈ Beijing Capital International Airport (北京首都国际机场 IATA: PEK)

• Address: Jichang West Rd, Chaoyang District, Beijing 北京朝阳区机场西路

Located in the northeast of Beijing, Beijing Capital Airport is about  25 km away from Tiananmen Square, the center of Beijing , and it takes at least 100 CNY to the downtown by taxi. As one of the largest and busiest international airport in the world, it serves numerous international/regional flights which connect China with almost every continent of the world. There are also lots of domestic flights from/to every provincial capital city and other major cities in China. There are three Terminals , namely the Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is for domestic flights of China Southern Airlines Company only; Terminal 2 serves for China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Hainan Airlines (international flights) foreign airlines of SkyTeam, etc; and Terminal 3 is usually for China Air, Sichuan Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, and foreign airlines of Star Alliance and One World Alliance…

☛ Beijing Capital Airport Layover and Transit Visa Guide

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✈ Beijing Daxing International Airport (北京大兴国际机场 IATA: PKX)

• Address: Daxing District, Beijing & Guangyang District, Langfang City, Hebei北京市大兴区礼贤镇、榆垡镇及廊坊 市广阳区交汇处

Beijing Daxing International Airport is Beijing’s second international airport. It’s much big in scale and highly advanced in techniques. It is linked with northern China’s other modes of transportation, such as high speed rail, highway, subway, etc. Beijing Daxing International Airport has only 1 terminal – Terminal 1 which has 4 floors. The first floor serves for international arrival; the second floor serves for domestic arrival; the third floor is for domestic departure; the fourth floor serves for international departures. There are 82 boarding gates, but it takes less than 8 minutes for passengers to get to each boarding gate by walking from the departure hall. It also receives many international/regional flights which connect China with almost every continent of the world, as well as domestic flights from many capital cities and some other big cities, including, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xiamen, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Chengdu, Chongqing, etc.

>>Learn More about Beijing Daxing International Airport

✈ Beijing Nanyuan Airport (北京南苑机场 IATA: NAY)

• Address: No. 6 Nanyuan Town Police East Road, Fengtai District, Beijing 北京市丰台区南苑镇警备东路6号

Nanyuan Airport is 15 kilometers south of Tiananmen Square , which is mainly operating the domestic flights to Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Wuhan, Chongqing, Qingdao, Zhangjiajie, Changsha, Nanjing, Xiamen, Kunming, Zhengzhou, Sanya, Dunhuang, Wuxi, Jiamusi, Jingdezhen, Dalian, Harbin, Shenzhen, Fuzhou, and Hohhot, etc.

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Trains to Beijing

In Beijing City, there are four railway stations offering thousands of rail lines connecting to other cities in China, and they are Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Railway Station, Beijing South Railway Station and Beijing North Railway Station. You can take the high-speed train traveling to other popular China destinations , like Xian, Shanghai, Harbin, Guangzhou and even Tibet from Beijing by train.

☛ Read More About Trains to / from Beijing

Beijing High Speed Bullet Train

The capital Beijing has been connected to numerous cities in many areas in China, including a lot of popular tourist destinations - Xian, Shanghai, Luoyang, Qingdao, Harbin, etc. You can conveniently take the fast and comfortable high speed trains to these cities, or get to Beijing from these cities.  >> More details about High Speed Trains to/from Beijing.

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High-Speed Train in China (2018)

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Beijing Railway Stations

Beijing, the great capital of China, mainly has  five railway stations running for the passengers, Beijing South Railway Station (the largest and uppermost high speed train station operating 383 G & C trains), Beijing West Railway Station (the second high speed train station running 191 G & D trains ), Beijing Railway Station (handling 48 D trains), Changping North Railway Station (departing 10 normal trains) and Beijing East Railway Station (freight train station with few subsidiary normal trains) are included. Currently, the former three in downtown Beijing are frequently used for high speed train travels while the latter two are slow trains and specialized short-distance tourist trains. >> More details about Beijing Railway Stations.

Beijing South Railway Station (北京南站 Pinyin: běi jīng nán zhàn)

• Location: No.12, Yongwai Avenue, Fengtai District, South Beijing 北京市丰台区永外大街12号

Beijing West Railway Station (北京西站 Pinyin: běi jīng xī zhàn)

• Location: No.118, East Lianhuachi Road, Fengtai District, Western Beijing 北京市丰台区莲花池东路118号

Beijing Railway Station (北京站 Pinyin: běi jīng zhàn）

• Location: No.13, Maojiawan Hutong Jia, Dongcheng District, Southeast Beijing 北京市东城区毛家湾胡同甲13号

Beijing East Railway Station (北京东站 Pinyin: běi jīng dōng zhàn)

• Location: No. 27, Baiziwan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 北京市朝阳区百子湾路7号

Changping North Railway Station (昌平北站 Pinyin: chāng píng běi zhàn)

• Location: North Ring Road, Changping District, North Suburb of Beijing 北京市昌平区北环路

Beijing Railway Stations on Beijing Map (Click to Enlarge)

High Speed Bullet Train Schedules

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Get Around Beijing

Transportation at beijing city.

Beijing has the largest network of subway which consists of 17 lines and an airport express . You can get to most famous attractions (Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace...), shopping malls, and train stations conveniently by subway. Taking subway is very recommended for catching trains to other destinations to avoid traffic jam - Beijing Railway Station(Line 2), Beijing South Railway Station(Line 4), Beijing West Railway Station(Line 9), Beijing North Railway Station(Line 2,4 and 13)

By the end of 2016, there are over 29515 operating vehicles and 1020 bus lines in Beijing, and the bus network covers most of the scenic spots in both urban and outskirt areas. Beijing buses mainly consist of BRT buses, suburban buses, tourist buses, long distance buses, and sightseeing buses . In addition to daytime buses, there are more than 38 nighttime buses running from 23:00pm to 4:30am in Beijing City area. The price of most regular buses is CNY 2 in 10 kilometers and another CNY 1 is charged for every another 5 kilometers for the riding distance over 10 kilometers.

Taking a taxi is always the most convenient way to get around for a Beijing tour. In Beijing, CNY 13 is charged for the first 3 kilometers for traveling within 15 km from 05:00 to 22:59, and CNY 2.3 for each subsequent kilometer. If the distance is over 15 km, CNY 3.45 is charged for each additional kilometer.

Beijing Subway Map (Click to Enlarge)

How to Get to Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

Forbidden City is rightly located at the center of Beijing City, very close to Tiananmen Square. You could easily find it and get there by taxi, subway, bus, bicycle, etc. If you go there by subway, you could take the metro line 1 to get off at Tiananmen East Stop (天安门东) , walking about 900m, and then enter Forbidden City form the Meridian Gate. You can also get to Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square from the airports directly.

How to Get to Temple of Heaven

The visit of Temple of Heaven takes about 1~2 hours , so it is usually recommended to tour with other sites in Beijing city, such as the Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City. Subway and public buses are also available for independent travelers. You can take subway Line 5, and exist at Tiantan Dongmen Station which is only several minutes’ walking away from the East Gate of Temple of Heaven. Many buses pass by the park, including 120, 17, 2, 35, 36, 504, 53, etc.

• How to Get to Summer Palace

Located in the northwest outskirts of Beijing, Summer Palace used to be the royal park where the emperors of China dwelt during Summer. As a famous scenic site, summer palace is surrounded by multiple bus stops around its 4 entrances such as Bus 74, Bus 374, Bus 437, Bus 952, Bus 469, Bus 539, etc. Besides multiple buses, you can also take the metro line 4 and get off at Palace Gate Station (Pinyin: BeigongmenZhan 北宫门站) to the Summer Palace. You can easily get there and transfer to other attractions such as, Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven. >> Learn More about Getting to Summer Palace

How to Get to Beijing Hutongs

Many visitors in Beijing will ask: “Where is Beijing Hutong?” Actually, there are hundreds of them interlaced in Beijing. They are alleys lined with traditional Chinese quadrangle courtyards where Beijing people live. Among them, the most famous hutongs are Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷), Yandaixie Street (烟袋斜街) and Bell & Drum Towers Hutongs (钟鼓楼胡同). To get to their surrounding area, you can take subway Line 2 to Guloudajie Station (鼓楼大街站) or Line 6 to Nanluoguxiang Station (南锣鼓巷站) .

How to Get to Olympic Park

Though Beijing Olympic Park is a little far from downtown, the complete transportation network of Beijing City still can take you there on a subway or bus. You can take subway Line 8 or Line 15 and get off at Olympic Green Station (奥林匹克公园站) or get to Guojia Tiyuchang Dong Station (国家体育场东站) / Guojia Tiyuguan Station (国家体育馆站) by bus 82, 419, 538, 81, 82, 86, 510, 607 or Special Line 13 or 15, etc.

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Forbidden City (June, 2018)

Tiananmen Square (2018)

Summer Palace (2018)

Bird's Nest (2019)

• How to Get to Great Wall

Top recommended sections of Great Wall in Beijing suburb include Mutianyu Great Wall, Badaling Great Wall, Huanghacheng Great Wall, Jinakou Great Wall, Juyongguan Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall, Jinshanliang Great Wall and Gubeikou Great Wall, etc. It is available to get to these sections of directly from Beijing.

• How to Get to Mutianyu Great Wall
• How to Get to Badaling Great Wall
• How to Get to Jinshanling Great Wall
• How to Get to Huanghuacheng Great Wall
• How to Get to Jiankou Great Wall
• How to Get to Simatai Great Wall

Some travelers will start their journey to Great Wall as soon as they reach Beijing while others prefer a good rest in the hotel in Beijing City and then start a journey to their favorite Great Wall. Those travelers who want to make full use of their tour time will travel to to Great Wall from Beijing airports and railway stations directly. Check the different transfer from Beijing airports, Beijing South Railway Station and Beijing West Railway Station to Great Wall.

• Beijing City to Great Wall
• Beijing Airports to Great Wall
• Beijing South Railway Station to Great Wall
• Beijing West Railway Station to Great Wall

Besides getting to the great wall from Beijing city or the major transportation hubs, you can always choose to visit them from one section to another one , especially for the walls which are closed to each other. The followings are popular transferring ways between different Great Wall sections.

• Get from Gubeikou to Jinshanling 
• Get from Jinshanling to Simatai
• Get from Jiankou to Mutianyu

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Get from Beijing City to Different Sections of Great Wall (Click to Enlarge)

Huanghuacheng Great Wall (2018)

Jiankou Great Wall (October, 2019)

How to Plan Your Travel in Beijing

To explore the best highlights of Beijing, including Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Hutongs, you only need 2 or 3 full days , which is available for to 144 Hours Visa-free for Transit in Beijing. If you have more days, you can go for an in-depth Great Wall hiking or photography, and explore more hidden attractions in the city.

As the most popular transportation hub in China, you can easily travel from Beijing to any other hot travel destinations in China by flight or train, such as Xian , Shanghai, Yangtze River, Guilin , Chengdu , Tibet and other popular destinations in China by flight or train.. China Discovery has designed many great China tour packages from Beijing for you. Please make your choice from our collections or let us customize one for you.

We have helped many global travelers enjoy their memorable wonderful trips to Beijing for the past few years. Among them, a special team of over 50 VIPKID teachers from North America traveled with us to see their dear studends in China with amazing experience in Beijing and shared us their special travel story ! Travel with China Discovery to create your great China trip memories!

Recommended Beijing Tours with Other Top Cities in China:

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Keep Reading on Getting to Beijing

• Travel from Beijing to Harbin
• Beijing Trains
• International Flights to Beijing
• Beijing Airport Layover
• Beijing Daxing Airport

How to Get Around Beijing

• Get from Beijing to Great Wall
• Airports to Forbidden City
• Airport to Beijing Downtown
• Beijing Capital Airport Express
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• Beijing Subway Map
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• Top 6 Beijing Vacations
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Recommended Beijing Tours

Top 3 Beijing tours chosen by most customers to explore Beijing in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.

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7 Ways to Get Around in Beijing

There are many different ways to get around in Beijing, most are easy to use and inexpensive. This post gives you an overview over Beijing transportation. For more specifics follow the links within.

Public Transportation: Beijing Subway and Bus

Car ownership is still in its infancy in China. I know, it’s hard to believe when you witness the choking traffic in Beijing and many other places in China. But because not many people own a car, Beijing has excellent public transportation with an extensive network of subways and buses. Read my posts on how to use subway and buses in Beijing.

There is no monthly pass or multi-day ticket. If you plan to use public transportation regularly you can buy a rechargeable IC card, the so-called Yikatong 一卡通, which you can use for both subway and buses. You can buy it at many of the bigger subway stations. Look for the blue sign that says IC Card.

Again, because not many people have cars, taxis are a very common and cheap form of transportation in Beijing. Read more on taking a Beijing taxi .

Sanlunche and Pedicabs

Sanlunche, literally “Three-wheel-car”, usually is a shiny silver colored “box” powered by a moped. Some Chinese also call it BoingBoing as the ride can be a bit bumpy. A Sanlunche is the Chinese version of a TukTuk or Moto rickshaw well known all over Southeast Asia.

The fare is similar to regular taxis and should be agreed upon upfront. They can be faster in rush hour as they squeeze through in between cars, use the sidewalk, opposite lanes, etc., which also makes them more dangerous than taxis.

Pedicabs or bicycle rickshaws are common In the downtown tourist areas and in the expat areas. They are great for short distances and through back streets but can feel a bit scary on bigger streets. You should negotiate the fare upfront and ideally have exact change ready. There have been a few reports about dishonest pedicab drivers.

In busy areas, like the bar street, all drivers seem to have agreed on a fixed fare for the vicinity, taking advantage of the fact that many women in high heels don’t want to do too much walking…

Tip : Everything Western has a Chinese name and is known to most Chinese only by the Chinese name, for example Starbucks is Xīn bā kè星巴克 , Walmart is Wò ěr mǎ 沃尔玛, … This holds true for everything that has a Western name including hotels, stores and sights. When telling a cab driver your destination or asking for directions, make sure you know the Chinese name and its proper pronunciation or show it to him written in characters. A good phone app like TrainChinese or Hanping (only available for Android) can help with that.

The easiest way, but not always the fastest and not the cheapest way, to get around is by car if your company (or financial means) provide you with a car and driver. Driving yourself with your own car is not an immediate option for newcomers. China requires foreigners residing in China to get a Chinese driver’s license, which is not that difficult. Obtaining the license plates for owning a car is the challenge but you could still rent one or maybe get one through your company. I would advise to experience traffic in Beijing for a while before considering driving here yourself.

Two-Wheelers like Bike and Scooter

In the last year, bikes seem to have taken over the sidewalks and street, thanks to the new bike sharing craze. Mobike, OFO, and other bike share companies make it easy to rent a bike anywhere in the city. (Coming soon: Post on bike sharing)

In addition to the old-fashioned human-propelled version, people use electric bikes, small scooters that look like a small moped but are usually battery-run, and more regular-size scooters that can be electrical or gas powered. Real motorcycles are not common.

From what I understand, you don’t need a license for a scooter, making them a favorite choice among foreigners. Wearing a helmet is not required and you won’t see many people taking that safety precaution.

Many neighborhoods have bike lanes, but those must be shared with motorized small vehicles including Sanlunches, pedestrians venturing into the street and the occasional parked car, so watch out.

Last but not least, the most common form of “transportation”: your own feet. Be prepared to walk a lot, especially if you rely on public transportation. Distances are often huge, even changing subway lines at some intersections requires several minutes of walking.

While many Chinese women manage to do that in high heels, I found my nice heels gathering dust in the closet. Comfortable shoes  are a must in Beijing. Also keep in mind that the city often is very dusty and in some areas not very clean, so not really a place for Manolos (in case you have any).

Ruth moved to Beijing in 2011 with her husband and later started the Beijing Expat Guide. Although she has since left China, she still comes back often to visit friends and fill up on delicious Chinese food.

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Malaysian embarks on solo trip around the world in his Perodua Kenari

Friday, 03 May 2024

Related News

Solo expeditions, sports tourism among top travel trends to watch

‘beijing to make it easier for solo travellers from mainland china to visit hong kong’, hong kong tourism board to roll out flight deals, vouchers and ‘3 must-haves’ to lure travellers from xian and qingdao in solo visitor scheme, voon set off on his global expedition in his trusty perodua kenari on may 1, ready to explore over 108 countries. photos: facebook/jack voon.

A Sarawakian man has started his solo trip around the world in his trusty Perodua Kenari on May 1. The journey is expected to take three years.

Jack Voon Kuet Fei, 47, says the expedition is expected to span approximately 200,000km, covering over 108 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, North America and South America.

The flag-off for his trip took place in Kuantan, Pahang and was hosted by Pahang exco member and its unity, tourism and culture committee chairman Leong Yu Man.As a digital and social media content creator, Voon has always dreamed of travelling the world since he was young, envisioning the vastness of the globe.

"In this programme, I will be documenting my journey and creating educational and promotional videos. I am hopeful this programme will build an opportunity to unite people, broaden our horizons and instil the spirit of adventure while promoting Malaysia to the world,” said Voon, who is from Kuching.

He estimates the trip will cost him about RM860,000, which covers 12 categories of expenses including telecommunications, fuel, meal, accommodation, insurance, vaccines and visa fees.

Regarding his choice of car, he said the Kenari is economical and safe. His car has been equipped with travelling essentials, including a solar panel, mini fridge, mini stove, spare battery, heating system and halogen headlights. The back seat of his white car is outfitted with cabinets to store items, while the roof has been transformed into a sleeping cabin capable of withstanding low temperatures.

According to his travel log on Facebook, his car was struck by an unknown party when he was in Kuala Terengganu on May 2.

However, Voon will certainly not let this small hiccup hamper his journey of a lifetime.

The wanderlust traveller

Voon wants to share the beauty and diversity of malaysia with the world., voon has always dreamed of travelling the world since he was young., despite setbacks like his damaged light, voon remains undeterred on his quest to promote unity and friendship worldwide..

Related stories:

Tags / Keywords: Solo traveller , Globetrekker , Perodua Kenari , Sarawak

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