Beijing
· CN

Beijing

Beijing, Beijing, China

Beijing, the captivating capital of China, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient history and modern dynamism. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to imperial C…

#Capital city#Historical sites#Cultural landmarks#Traditional cuisine#Urban metropolis
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Beijing.

Top Hotels in Beijing

Top Flights to Beijing

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Beijing.

Tours

Great Wall of China Trek

Explore one of the most iconic wonders of the world, walking along the ancient walls of the Great Wall of China.

Summer Palace Visit

Visit the stunning Summer Palace, a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces in Beijing.

Factory Tour at Beijing Hyundai

Visit one of the largest automotive factories in China to see modern manufacturing processes in action.

Evening Tea Ceremony at The Tea House

Experience a tranquil Chinese tea ceremony, learn about different tea varieties, and immerse in Beijing's tea culture.

Factory Visit at Beijing Electronic Zone

Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Beijing's major electronic manufacturing facilities. Witness the production process of cutting-edge gadgets.

Peking University Factory Visit

Explore the advanced manufacturing capabilities at Peking University's research and production facility, showcasing cutting-edge industrial techniques.

Beijing Mastercraft Factory Visit

Tour one of Beijing's leading mastercraft factories to learn about traditional Chinese workmanship and modern manufacturing techniques.

Visit to the Beijing Zoo

Explore the famous Beijing Zoo, home to giant pandas and a diverse range of other wildlife from China.

Visit to the Summer Palace

Stroll through the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its beautiful gardens and historical architecture.

Visit Tiananmen Square

Explore the historic and iconic heart of Beijing, Tiananmen Square.

Explore the Temple of Heaven

Visit the Temple of Heaven, a historical site used by emperors for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for a good harvest.

Visit Lama Temple

Explore the beautifully ornate Lama Temple, a functioning Tibetan Buddhist temple that offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Explore Hutong Lanes of Beijing

Discover the traditional narrow alleys and historic courtyard residences in the bustling city. These ancient streets hold stories and secrets of Beijing's past.

Explore the Beijing Olympic Park

Walk around the Beijing Olympic Park and admire architectural wonders like the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube.

Evening Visit to Red Brick Art Museum

Visit the Red Brick Art Museum, an architectural marvel housing contemporary art exhibits and offering a unique cultural experience.

Tour of the National Museum of China

Explore China's vast historical collections from prehistory to modern times at the National Museum.

Evening Show at Red Theatre

Enjoy an enthralling evening show of traditional Chinese Kung Fu at the Red Theatre, showcasing the beauty and power of this ancient martial art form.

Ming Tombs Exploration

Visit the Ming Tombs, a collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming dynasty. Discover the well-preserved architecture and the history behind it.

Temple of Earth Visit

Relax and stroll around the Temple of Earth, one of Beijing's major Taoist temples known for its beautiful gardens and calm atmosphere.

Visit to the Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest)

Explore the iconic Bird's Nest, the stadium built for the 2008 Olympics and a symbol of modern architecture in Beijing.

Beihang University Science and Technology Expo

Explore cutting-edge advancements and exhibits hosted at one of China's premier technical universities.

Evening Tea at 798 Art District Cafe

Relax and enjoy a cup of tea amidst contemporary art installations in the trendy 798 Art District.

Temple of Heaven Exploration

Explore this stunning temple complex, a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design.

Beijing Silk Factory Tour

Guided tour to a traditional silk manufacturing unit in Beijing to learn about the production process of silk fabric.

Visit the Forbidden City

Explore the majestic Forbidden City and learn about its rich history and culture.

Morning at Temple of Confucius

Explore the tranquil Temple of Confucius, one of the most significant temples of its kind in China, dedicated to the great philosopher Confucius.

Afternoon Exploration of 798 Art District

Discover contemporary Chinese art and culture by visiting galleries and exhibitions in the 798 Art District.

Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City Tour

Explore the historical and political center of Beijing, walking through the iconic Tiananmen Square and then head to the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace.

798 Art District Visit

Explore the contemporary art scene in this thriving district filled with galleries and studios.

Shopping

Shopping at Sanlitun Taikooli

Explore the modern shopping and lifestyle destination in Beijing, featuring international brands and local boutiques.

Evening Walk in Wangfujing Dajie

Take a leisurely walk through one of Beijing's most famous shopping streets with a vibrant atmosphere.

Explore Qianmen Street

Walkthrough the historic Qianmen Street, renowned for its traditional architecture and vibrant shops.

Wangfujing Street Shopping and Leisure

Stroll through Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing's most famous shopping streets. Explore its wide range of shops, snack stalls, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Panjiayuan Antique Market Shopping

Discover a wide array of antiques and cultural relics at Panjiayuan Market, a treasure trove for collectors.

Outdoor

Beijing Botanical Garden Stroll

Relax in the beautiful Beijing Botanical Garden, home to thousands of plant species, a rose garden, and lakeside views.

Beijing Olympic Park Morning Stroll

Enjoy a peaceful walk around the iconic Beijing Olympic Park, home to the famous Bird's Nest and Water Cube.

Evening stroll in Jingshan Park

End the day with an evening stroll and sunset view over the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park.

Hiking at Xiangshan Park (Fragrant Hills)

Spend the afternoon hiking in Xiangshan Park, known for its stunning natural scenery and vibrant autumn colors.

Relaxation Time at Chaoyang Park

Take a leisurely walk or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings of one of Beijing's largest city parks.

Stroll in the Olympic Forest Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk in the Olympic Forest Park, a massive urban park built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, featuring beautiful landscapes.

Evening Gold Time at Olympic Park

Explore Beijing's Olympic Park, home to iconic structures like the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, enjoy the evening ambiance.

Afternoon at Jingshan Park

Relax at Jingshan Park, offering splendid views of the Forbidden City and vibrant gardens.

Hutong Bike Tour

Cycle through the traditional hutongs of Beijing to experience local life and historical architecture.

Evening Walk at Houhai Lake

Enjoy an evening stroll around Houhai Lake, a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike for its beautiful scenery and lively atmosphere.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Beijing.

Currency
¥ | CNY | Chinese Yuan Renminbi
Population
Information not available.
Languages
Mandarin, Mandarin, Standard Chinese
Average weather
Beijing
Jan
cold
-1°-10°
Feb
cold
3°-6°
Mar
clear
11°0°
Apr
clear
20°7°
May
sun
26°13°
Jun
hot
30°18°
Jul
hot
31°22°
Aug
hot
30°21°
Sep
clear
26°15°
Oct
clear
19°8°
Nov
clear
10°-1°
Dec
cold
2°-8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Beijing.

What people love

Traveling to Beijing, China has numerous pros, some of which include:

  1. Rich History and Culture: Beijing is one of the oldest cities in the world with a history spanning over 3,000 years. It is home to numerous historical sites such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace. These landmarks offer a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage.

  2. Culinary Delights: Beijing is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. From Peking duck to street food delicacies, you can indulge in a wide variety of flavors and dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

  3. Modern Infrastructure: Beijing is a bustling metropolis with modern amenities and infrastructure. You can experience the blend of traditional Chinese architecture with futuristic skyscrapers, high-speed trains, and efficient public transportation systems.

  4. Vibrant Arts and Entertainment Scene: Beijing offers a dynamic arts and entertainment scene with world-class theaters, opera houses, art galleries, and music venues. You can enjoy traditional Chinese opera performances, contemporary art exhibitions, and live music concerts.

  5. Shopping and Markets: Beijing is a shopper's paradise with a wide range of markets, shopping streets, and malls. From traditional handicrafts to modern designer brands, you can find unique souvenirs and gifts to take back home.

  6. Green Spaces and Parks: Despite being a bustling city, Beijing offers plenty of green spaces and parks where you can relax and unwind. The Summer Palace, Beihai Park, and Fragrant Hills are popular retreats for locals and tourists alike.

Overall, traveling to Beijing offers a unique blend of history, culture, modernity, and entertainment that will make your trip a memorable experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Beijing, China, include:

  1. Air Quality: Beijing is known for having poor air quality, especially during certain times of the year. This can impact your health and make outdoor activities less enjoyable.

  2. Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Beijing, so communication can be a challenge for travelers who do not speak Mandarin. This can make it difficult to navigate the city, order food, or ask for help.

  3. Crowds and Traffic: Beijing is a bustling city with a large population, so you can expect crowded streets and public transportation. Traffic congestion is also a common issue, which can make getting around the city time-consuming.

  4. Internet Restrictions: China has strict internet censorship laws, which means that many popular websites and social media platforms are blocked. This can be frustrating for travelers who rely on these services to stay connected or for research purposes.

  5. Cultural Differences: As a Western traveler, you may encounter cultural differences in Beijing that can be challenging to navigate. It's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions to avoid unintentionally causing offense.

Overall, while Beijing has a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, and attractions, it's important to be aware of these potential cons when planning your trip.

Beijing, also known as Peking, is the capital city of China and one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history that dates back over three millennia. It has served as the capital of various Chinese dynasties and governments, making it a city rich in history and culture.

Significant events in Beijing's history include:

  • The establishment of Beijing as the capital of the Yuan Dynasty in the 13th century by Kublai Khan.
  • The construction of the Forbidden City, a massive imperial palace complex, during the Ming Dynasty in the 15th century.
  • The Qing Dynasty's rule over Beijing, which lasted from the mid-17th century until the early 20th century.
  • The fall of the Qing Dynasty in 1912 and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of China with Beijing as its capital.
  • The founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, with Beijing as its capital city.

Historical figures associated with Beijing include emperors, statesmen, scholars, and revolutionaries. Some notable figures include:

  • Emperor Yongle, who commissioned the construction of the Forbidden City and moved the capital to Beijing in the 15th century.
  • Empress Dowager Cixi, a powerful figure during the late Qing Dynasty who played a significant role in Chinese politics.
  • Mao Zedong, the founding father of the People's Republic of China, who declared the establishment of the new government in Tiananmen Square in Beijing in 1949.

Important landmarks in Beijing include:

  • The Forbidden City: A vast imperial palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years.
  • The Great Wall of China: A series of fortifications built to protect China from invasions, with some sections located near Beijing.
  • Tiananmen Square: A large public square in the heart of Beijing, known for its historical and political significance.
  • The Temple of Heaven: A complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would perform rituals to pray for good harvests.
  • The Summer Palace: A vast imperial garden and palace complex that served as a retreat for emperors during the hot summer months.

This overview provides a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Beijing, a city that continues to be a vibrant center of political, economic, and cultural life in China.