| 4 mins read
Planning a holiday to China? Beijing, the capital city will be your first port of call, and with an multitude of attractions, historical sites and modern marvels, quite naturally the place to begin your explorations. Whether you’re looking to experience contemporary China or explore the roots of one of the world’s oldest civilizations, both are easily found in this northeastern hub. Of these all, here is our list of the top 7 things to do in Beijing.
1. Touring the Imperial Roots of the City
Of all the major Imperial sites, the Forbidden Palace is the most famous. The royal quarters of the country for nearly 500 years (ranging from the Ming to Qing Dynasties), this central Beijing attraction is one of the city (and country’s) most recognizable icons. Dating back to 1406, the complex is home to 980 buildings and currently houses the informative Palace Museum. Another of the must-visit ancient Imperial sites is the Summer Palace. A collection of palaces, gates, gardens and surrounding lakes, visitors can get explore this former royal playground on foot or take in some stunning views of it during a boat ride around the surrounding Kunming Lake. Yet another Imperial site recommended by your Beijing tour guide would be the Temple of Heaven. Dating back to 1406, this historic, multi-religion temple complex is both a fascinating visit as well as an important glimpse into the evolution of one of the world’s most influential civilizations.
2. Taking in the expanse of the Tiananmen Square
Another of Beijing’s most recognizable attractions, this city square is named after the gate leading into the Forbidden Palace (situated at the north end of the square). One of the largest city squares in the world, Tiananmen has played a major role and been a main focal point in many of China’s most important historical events (both positive and negative). Dating back to 1415, this grand square is home to the Monument to the People's Heroes, National Museum of China, Great Hall of the People and the Mao Zedong Mausoleum.
3. Ticking the Great Wall of China off your Bucketlist
A visit to Beijing means a visit to the Great Wall of China. The closest spot to the city where the world-famous fortification can be visited is Badaling, approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Beijing. As this is the most popular spot to visit the Great Wall, visitors can expect long lines and hoards of tourists. The Mutianyu section is relatively quieter and promises breathtaking scenic visages of the Great Wall.
4. Learning more at the Capital Museum
One of the best museums in all of China, the Capital Museum is home to over 200,000 cultural relics from ancient Buddhist statues and royal porcelain to bronze sculptures, calligraphy and ancient paintings. Representing timeless works from both China and surrounding Asian nations, this museum is a history buff’s dreamland.
5. A lesson in heritage at the Yonghe Temple
Also known as the Lama Temple, this Tibetan Gelugpa Monastery dates back to the late 17th century and boasts an incredibly ornate architectural form. Once used as an imperial palace, this famous monastery is home to some fascinating works of art, historic bronze and sandalwood statues and stunning halls & pavilions. The Yonghe Temple is an excellent look back into China’s rich Buddhist history and heritage.
6. Letting loose at the Panjiayuan Market
A nice break from the historical, cultural and religious sites of Beijing, Panjiayuan is the city’s most famous covered arts & antiques market. Visitors can expect to find everything from Buddhist statues and traditional furniture to ancient scrolls, Chinese paintings and ethnic minority crafts. If you’re looking for a unique experience and want to find that special trinket to take back home- a visit to this market is an absolute must.
7. Wandering Beijing’s Hutongs
Beijing’s hutongs (or traditional alleys) are the ultimate escape from the modern day concrete jungle. Connecting residential areas (many with shared, open courtyards), these narrow lanes are an excellent glimpse into Old World Beijing- a site that is rapidly fading. Take a rickshaw tour or wander along the alleys taking in the sights of everyday life here; the older generation playing mahjong outdoors while the youngsters practice their diabolos nearby.
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