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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 and the Forbidden City

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

The Great Wall of China

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.

Tian'anmen Square

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

Beihai Park

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

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

The Summer Palace

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

Beijing National Stadium

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

The Lama Temple

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

Beijing Capital Museum

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

Beijing Ancient Observatory

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

The Fayuan Temple

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

View from Coal Hill Park

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

The Beijing Temple of Confucius

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

Beijing Zoo

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

The Old Summer Palace

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/

798 Art Zone

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

National Museum of China

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Top 14 Beijing Tourist Attractions, Beijing Sightseeing 2024

What to see, to buy, to experience in Beijing? What are the best you should never miss, and what are the feature activities only the locals know?

To help you plan your Beijing vacation and explore the real life of this city, here we have collected the TOP 14 Beijing Attractions where you can get a better understanding about the past and present of Beijing and learn more about Chinese culture and history. We have also selected 6 recommended featured activities you can choose to add more fun to your Beijing trip.

Beijing Attractions by Catagory

  • Top 6 Places to Visit in Beijing for First-Timers
  • 8 Best Sections of Great Wall near Beijing
  • 10 Awesome Landmark Sites to Take Photos
  • 5 Best Places to Explore Beijing's Folk Culture
  • 6 Recommended Free Attractions to Visit in Beijing
  • Popular Beijing Hutongs

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Our Guests Visiting Beijing Great Wall

  • Top Attractions
  • Featured Activities

Forbidden City

No.1: Forbidden City

Type: Historic Site, landmarks

Recommended Length of Visit: 2-3 hours

Forbidden City is absolutely the top must-see place in Beijing, which will show you what the Chinese culture and Dynasty is all about. Consisting of more than 9,000 rooms and spreading over 250 acres, it is once reserved only for the Emperors in 15-18th century. Once you enter the palace, you have stepped in the centuries' old history of China's imperial dynasties. More about Forbidden City

Great Wall

No.2: Great Wall

Type: Historic Site, Landmarks, Hiking Trails

Recommended Length of Visit: about 3 hours' hiking

Hiking the Great Wall is always a must for Beijing first-time visitors. From the continuous line of the Wall, there are some famous sections for visitors to go near Beijing city, including the most famous Badaling Great Wall , the less crowded Mutianyu Section and Simatai section , the beautiful Jinshanling , steep Jiankou , war-striken Gubeikou , strategic Juyongguan , unique Huanghuacheng , etc. The views from the Wall are spectacular and you can feel a sense of history as you walk.

Tian'anmen Square

No.3: Tian'anmen Square

Type: landmarks, Square

Recommended Length of Visit: less than 1 hour

Tiananmen Square is a vast open concrete expanse at the heart of modern Beijing. Here you can see the national flag raised at dawn and lowered at dusk every day, and the locals, as well as visitors strolling about at ease. The most famous site, Tian'an Men is where Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. More about Tian'anmen Square

Temple of Heaven

No.4: Temple of Heaven

Type: Historic Site, Parks, Religious Site

Recommended Length of Visit: 1-2 hours

Temple of Heaven is the largest building for religious worship in China with a total area of 270 acres. It is where the Ming and Qing emperors to pay homage to Heaven and pray a rich harvest for the next year. Nowadays it has become a leisure park, where you can see many beautiful temple buildings and halls with colorful decorations on them. More about Temple of Heaven

Hutong

No.5: Hutong

Type: Historic Walking Area

Recommended Length of Visit: about 2 hours

Beijing is famous for its centuries-old alleys known as hutongs. What is charmful to visitors is the 'real life' of Beijing in these neighborhoods of narrow, twisting alleys. Houhai area is the best place to explore the Hutong culture. The most-visited Nanluoguxiang and the oldest commercial street Yandaixie Street are both near Houhai. More about Beijing Hutong

Summer Palace

No.6: Summer Palace

Type: Hisotric Site, Parks

Summer Palace, called Yiheyuan in Chinese, used to be the summer retreat for emperors majorly consisting of Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. But now it is a park for both locals and tourists. You can stroll around the ancient pavilions, temples, bridges and huge lakes to enjoy the amazing view of this royal garden. More about Summer Palace

Ming Tombs

No.7: Ming Tombs

Type: Historic site, Monuments

Recommended Length of Visit: 2 hours

Ming Tombs, called Chang Ling in Chinese, is the resting place for 13 of the 16 Ming emperors. In Ding Ling, the only tomb opened to the public, you will see the treasures and Chinese Feng Shui alignment. The highlight is the Sacred Road leading to the tomb with hundreds of small stone animals. Only 30 km northwest of Beijing city, Ming Tomb is always companied with the tour to Great Wall. More about Ming Tombs

Lama Temple

No.8: Lama Temple

Type: Religious & Historic sites, Museums

Recommended Length of Visit: 1-2 hour

Lama Temple, also called Yonghegong in Chinese, is the highest-standard Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing. The buildings are a combination of Han and Tibetan styles. Here you can learn more about Tibetan Buddhism while appreciating the excellent architectures and impressive Buddha statues, one of which is an impressive fifty-four-foot high Buddha carved from one complete piece of Tibetan sandalwood. More about Lama Temple

Confucius Temple

No.9: Confucius Temple

Type: Cultural site, Museum

Recommended Length of Visit: 1 hour

For Confucius fan, you will never miss the trip to Confucius Temple and Guozijian Museum. Less crowded than other sites, you can learn a lot about Confucius while enjoying the quiet atmosphere here. Even you know nothing about Confucius, you will know more about him and his spirit in the East and the West Halls that talked about Confucius's life, philosophies, impact, legacy, etc. in perfect English.

Beijing Olympic Sites

No.10: Beijing Olympic Park

Type: Arenas

Beijing Olympic Park, also called Olympic Green, is a spacious park built for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. It contains 10 Olympic venues, 7 non-competitive venues, and a forest park, some of which have become landmarks of Beijing and representative works in architectural history such as the Bird's Nest and Water Cube. The best time to visit there is in the afternoon till night, for the splendid colorful lights will add more unforgettable memory to your Beijing trip. More about Beijing Olympic Park

National Museum of China

No.11: National Museum of China

Type: Museums

With over 1 million precious and rare artifacts, covering Chinese history from 1.7 million years ago till the present, National Museum of China is the third largest and the second most visited museum in the world. It is located on the east side of Tiananmen Square and the south side of East Chang'an Street, right at the city center of Beijing. More about National Museum of China

Jingshan Park

No.12: Jingshan Park

Type: Parks, Historical Sites

Jingshan Park, located in the central axes of Beijing and adjacent to Forbidden City, is the highest point of Beijing Old Imperil City. It offers a fantastic panoramic view of Forbidden City as well as modern Beijing. There are ancient towers and colorful flowers for sightseeing and many local people playing interesting traditional instruments. More about Jingshan Park

798 Art District

No.13: 798 Art District

Type: Art Galleries, Photography

A bunch of once-abandoned factories has now become synonymous with art and originality. 798 Art District is one of the most avant-garde places in Beijing. No matter you are an art enthusiast or not, 798 Art District will show you a different Beijing. You can attend upscale exhibitions, find many creatively designed architectures, stylish boutiques, cafes and restaurants here. More about 798 Art District

Gubei Water Town

No.14: Gubei Water Town

Type: Holiday Resorts

Recommended Length of Visit: Half day

Gubei WaterTown, located at the foot of Simatai Great Wall, is the northeast gateway of Beijing. It is a theme resort of ancient northern architecture built by a lake. Though it is not a historical water town, it has developed into a large-scale tourist's destination for sightseeing, night tour, boating, great wall hiking, and hot spring spa, etc. More about Gubei Water Town

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20 Best Things To Do In Beijing, According To Locals

We've curated a list of the 20 best places to visit and things to do in beijing to explore the city’s heart and soul..

By Kriti Nayyar Published on Mar 06, 2023, 01:00 PM UTC

20 Best Things To Do In Beijing, According To Locals

Beijing, China’s capital city, can overwhelm on a first visit. Occupied by 22 million people across 10,000 sq km, the city can be challenging to explore. So, we curated a list of Beijing’s top attractions to capture the essence of the mega-city.

Beijing is home to a wealth of historical sites and a unique architecture and art collection. Everything in Beijing is extravagant, taking you through the magnificence of Chinese culture. Whether you want to bask in the city’s beauty by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage sites or immerse yourself in the memories of old Beijing with Hutongs, the capital city offers a wide variety of places for a holistic experience. 

In short, the city has the perfect blend of ancient and contemporary avenues to scout. Here are the 20 best things to do in Beijing.

Beijing travel guide: Best things to do in the city

1. witness the great wall at mutianyu.

Spread across 4,000 miles, the majestic Great Wall of China has fascinated people for centuries. The trail was built during the reign of the Qing dynasty, in order to safeguard the region from Mongol insurgents. While there are several sections around Beijing to visit the awe-inspiring architecture, Mutianyu can be the perfect option with fewer crowds. It’s also the best-kept section of the entire stretch. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, the Jiankou section offers the best hiking and camping options. Gubeikou, Simatai and Jinshanling are also some great sections to explore.

We recommend you bring your own food and drinks since there are limited eating outlets here. The best time to visit is from April to May or September to October.

Timings : 8:30 am – 5 pm (Weekdays); 8:30 am – 5:30 pm (Weekends)

Entry fee :  CNY 40 (USD 5.8)

How to reach : Board the Dongzhimen tourist line bus at the bus stop outside Dongzhimen. It starts at 8:30 am every day and returns at 4 pm from the Scenic P1 parking lot.

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great wall of china

2. Visit the Forbidden City, symbol of China’s imperial power

The Forbidden City is the largest ancient palatial structure, taking tourists through wealthy empires that ruled  China . To give you an idea, it’s three times the size of the Louvre Palace in France.

The UNESCO World Heritage site was home to 24 Chinese emperors belonging to Ming and Qing dynasties. The emperor and his subjects were allowed at the site until 1925, following which it was turned into a museum with the fall of the last emperor. The majestic halls and walls are reminiscent of Chinese culture. 

It takes a minimum of two hours to explore the attraction.  Book your tickets online  for a hassle-free experience. The best time to visit is from mid-October to the end of November.

Timings :  8:30 am – 5 pm (April to October); 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (November to March)

Entry fee: CNY 60 (USD 8.7) (April to October), CNY 40 (USD 5.8)(November to March)

How to reach : Use subway line 1 and get off at Tiananmen West or East Station (exit B).

Book your stay here

forbidden city

3. Go boating at Beihai Park

Beijing’s largest park and former imperial garden, Beihai offers several activities. The best is the hour-long boat tour on Houhai Lake, which sits right outside the park. The traditional Chinese carriage comes with a boatman, taking you through Lotus Market, the Qianhai area, the Yinding bridge and the Houhai area.

Get a closer look at the locals and their lifestyle while enjoying folk Pipa performances and munching on snacks. You can also visit the Buddhist temples located in the park. Other attractions include Nine-Dragon Screen, 5 Dragons Pavilion, and the White Dagoba.

Timings : 6 am – 9 pm

Entry fee : CNY 10 – CNY 20 (USD 1.45 – USD 2.9)(Peak season); CNY 5 – CNY 15 (USD 0.73 – USD 2.18) (Off-season)

How to reach : Take a bus from Tiananmen West and get off at Forbidden City followed by an eight-minute walk to Beihei. 

Beihai Park

4. Explore 798 Art District, one of Beijing’s trendiest spots

All art, culture, and fashion enthusiasts who’re looking to explore the funky and modern side of the city must visit the 798 Art District. Located 30 minutes outside of the city’s downtown area, this place was once full of abandoned, old factories designed by German experts. It has transformed into a unique art exhibition and workshop hub. There are a number of aesthetic cafes, bookstores, boutique stores and art galleries to explore here. 

You’ll find fashion enthusiasts decked in chic clothes as well as uniformed workers, all in one place. Some of the must-visit attractions include UCCA Centre For Contemporary Art, 798 Art Factory, Ace Café and M Woods Art Gallery. 

Timings : 9 am – 6 pm

Entry fee : Free entry 

How to reach : Take a taxi from Dongzhimen and reach your destination within 10 minutes.

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Beijing 798 art street

5. Stop by Summer Palace, former royal retreat of emperors 

UNESCO aptly describes the Summer Palace as “a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design”. Among its several aesthetic marvels, the 728 meters decorative walkway is what stands out the most. It is decked with 14,000 colourful paintings on both sides, which narrate tales familiarising you with the rich history. 

In addition, the gleaming Kunming Lake adds to the grandeur of the palace. Along with Longevity Hill, it forms the key landscape feature of the Summer Palace Gardens. The best time to visit the palace is from April to October. 

Timings : 7 am – 7 pm

Entry fee : CNY 30 (USD 4.35) for adults and CNY 15 (USD 2.18) for students

How to reach : Take subway line 4 to Beigongmen Station and leave from exit 1.

summer palace beijing

6. Get a glimpse of Tai Chi at the Temple of Heaven

Also relating to the Ming and Qing dynasties, this must-visit place in Beijing consists of many religious buildings. The emperors were believed to perform the duties of the Gods here. Hence, it’s considered one of the holiest imperial places in Beijing. The Circular Mound Altar sits as the most important part of the site, where sacrifices were performed. 

The Imperial Vault of Heaven, the Palace of Abstinence and Divine Music Administration are among the other sites of attraction inside the complex.

It’s also a great place to see locals go about their morning rituals, engaged in Tai Chi or Chinese yo-yo. The best time to visit the temple is from April to October.

Timings : 6:30 am – 10 pm (April to October:), 6:30 am- 8 pm (November to March)

Entry fee : CNY 15 (USD 2.18) (Peak season); CNY 10 (USD 1.45) (Off-season)

How to reach : Use subway line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station and take exit A.

Temple of Heaven

7. Gaze through cultural relics at the National Museum of China

An amalgamation of two museums, the National Museum of China houses over 600 million historical and cultural artefacts of importance. The Museum of the Chinese Revolution and the National Museum of Chinese History converged to create this masterpiece, which opened to the public in 2003. 

The 48 exhibition halls flaunt Chinese history from Yuanmou Man to the fall of the Qing Dynasty. Bring a valid ID to enjoy the free exhibitions and collect your free ticket from the ticket office. For those wanting to witness any special exhibition, visit the National Museum of China’s official website for bookings. 

 Timings : 9 am – 5 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)

Entry fee: Free entry

How to reach : Take metro line 1 and get off at Tian’anmen East Station. Use exit C or D.

national museum of china

8. Enjoy Beijing opera at the Liyuan Theatre

An amalgamation of music, art, and literature, complemented with stunning face masks, costumes, and choreography, the Beijing opera gives you a taste of the Chinese culture.

The Liyuan Theatre has been at the helm of entertainment affairs since 1990 and is considered one of the must-visit tourist places in Beijing. The theatre holds daily evening performances, so a quick detour to this place will serve your purpose. You can also book your tickets on their website . 

How to reach : Located in Qianmen Jianguo hotel, the theatre can be accessed by subway at Hufangqiao Station on line 7.

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beijing opera

9. Spend a romantic evening at Landiao Lavender Garden

Popularly known as the ‘blues dreamland’ of Beijing, this garden is straight out of a fairytale. The garden has hot water springs, a wedding hall as well as a lavender farm, making it the perfect romantic spot for a stroll in the evening. Enjoy the fragrance of the blooms and don’t forget to buy lavender products while you’re here.

The best time to visit the garden is in July and August when the aromatic plants bloom. We recommend you spare at least half a day to cover the entire place. 

How to reach: Get off at Shuangqiao Station and take a taxi.

Landiao Lavender Garden

10. Experience tranquillity at Yonghe Temple

Also known as Lama Temple or Yonghe Lamasery, this temple is the biggest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing, always crowded with locals. Not only does the temple serve as a museum of Tibetan Buddhism but is also a popular spot of worship. It comprises five main halls including statues of Gautam Buddha, Kasyapa Matanga and Maitreya Buddha. Additionally, the temple has three marvellous archways and a giant prayer wheel. 

Timings : 9 am – 4:30 pm (April to October); 9 am- 4 pm (November to March)

Entry fee : CNY (3.63)

How to reach : Take subway line 2 or line 5 to Yonghegong station and use exit F.

yonghe temple

11. Shop at Wangfujing Shopping Street  

The most famous shopping place in the whole of China, Wangfujing has everything from upscale shopping outlets, and boutiques, to traditional Chinese art and craft outlets, eateries and more. One of the most famous attractions here is the St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a centuries-old Catholic church by the Portuguese. 

Another must-visit spot at Wangfujing is Snack Street, which offers lip-smacking foods from stand to stand, including fried scorpion, snake kebobs, chicken kebobs and more. 

How to reach: Use subway line 1 and get off at Wangfujing Station and then take exit A. 

Wangfujing Shopping Street

12. Visit the stunning Beijing National Stadium or ‘bird’s nest’

The striking stadium famously called the ‘bird’s nest’ that was constructed during the 2008 Summer Olympics is quite an engineering marvel. Its complex yet fascinating shape is inspired by Chinese-style ‘crazed pottery’ and the outer shell is the world’s largest steel structure.

Following the Olympics, the stadium has been used for conducting athletic events, football faceoffs as well as concerts. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you can’t miss this place. 

Timings : 9 am – 5:00 pm (November to March), 9 am – 2:30 pm (April to October)

Entry fee : CNY 50 (USD 7.25)

How to reach : Use line 8 subway to Olympic Sports Centre Station and walk for 10 minutes. 

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beijing national stadium

13. Take a stroll in Shichaha, a calm oasis

Composed of three lakes, Shichahai is a haven for all those looking to bask in tranquillity. It used to be a recreational spot for people during the Ming Dynasty, so you’ll spot many of their mansions and homes here. The major attraction for tourists is the Hutongs. Find yourself surrounded by a slew of bars and restaurants tucked on the banks and make sure to relax over a drink, watching locals in their element. 

How to reach: Use subway line 8 directly to Shichahai.

shichahai

14. Visit the resting site of the emperors at Ming Tombs

The  UNESCO  World Heritage site houses the tombs of 13 Ming emperors. The Yongle emperor was the first to have his tomb built here per the rules of feng shui. 

Each tomb has its independent unit, built at the foot of the Tianshou Mountains. The units range from half a kilometre to eight kilometres. Please note that only three tombs are open for public view: Changling tomb, Dingling tomb and Zhaoling tomb. 

Timings : Usually from 8 am – 5 pm (differs from tomb to tomb)

Entry fee : Ranges from CNY 20 (USD 2.9) – CNY 130 (USD 18.86) according to the areas you’re planning to cover

How to reach : Bus 877 takes you from Deshengmen Bus Station to Badaling Great Wall. After touring Badaling, use bus 879 to reach Sacred Way, Changling and Dingling. Zhaoling is also in the vicinity. 

Ming Tombs

15. Enjoy the nightlife at Houhai 

The former relaxation spot for Yuan Dynasty royals, Houhai is an artificial lake that has become highly famous for its nightlife. As the sun sets, the live music bars come to life. You’ll find youth hopping cafes and bars as well as tourists navigating the neighbouring Hutongs and courtyards of celebrities and former officials. Take a stroll through Prince Gong’s mansion and the former residence of great poet Guo Moru. Also visit Yandaixie Street to enjoy scrumptious food and buy antiques. 

Zoom, a Britain-style football bar, is one of the most popular cafes here. If you love jazz, hit The East Shore Live Jazz Cafe that hosts live music performances. 

How to reach : Use line 2 subway from the Qianmen Station and get off at Gulou Dajie Station. 

houhai

16. Go to Gubei Water Town for a romantic getaway

One of the most popular sightseeing and holiday destinations in Beijing, the town boasts picturesque mountains, ancient villages, and lakes. With its quaint and tranquil aura enveloped in yellow lights, Gubei is an ideal romantic abode. Enjoy hot springs in your hotels, take a sightseeing boat or relish Chinese wine at the distilleries. Adventure junkies can also hike up the Simatai Great Wall right next to the town to get a bird’s eye view of the place.

There are also many amazing restaurants in the town to explore. To relish local delicacies like spiced corned eggs, pancakes, dumplings, barbecued pork and more, we recommend stopping by the Great Wall Bar.  

Entry fee : CNY150 (USD 21.76)(only Gubei) and CNY170 (24.66)(combo ticket for Simatai and Gubei)

How to reach : Take the tourist bus from Dongzhimen at 9 am, 12 pm, or 3:30 pm. Get off at Gubei Water Town in two hours. 

Gubei water town

17. Soak in the panoramic views of the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park

If you’re a sucker for sunset views, you must visit Jingshan Park to see the Forbidden City’s gorgeous architecture at dusk. Hills, ancient buildings and lakes make up the gorgeous landscape. The most luring of them all is the artificial hill called Jingshan or Prospect Hill which offers mesmerising views of the Forbidden City and Beijing. 

The best time to visit the place is in May when the Peony Festival takes place. More than 20,000 peonies across 200 varieties blossom in the garden, making it every anthophile’s dreamland. 

Entry fee : CNY 2 (USD 0.29)

Timings :  6:30 am – 9 pm (April to October), 6:30 am – 8 pm (November to March)

How to reach : Take subway 8 to Shichahai Station and leave from exit C.

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Views from Jingshan Hill

18. Offer prayers in the second largest Confucian temple in China

Located to the west of the Lama Temple, this site is dedicated to Confucius, a great thinker, philosopher and educationalist in ancient China. His teachings were developed into ‘Confucianism’, which spread across parts of Asia and Europe. This is also the second-largest temple dedicated to the philosopher, after the temple of Confucius in Qufu. 

You’ll find about 200 stone tablets inscribed with the names of notable scholars of the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. The temple also houses pavilions dedicated to the Ming and Qing dynasties along with pertinent information about Chinese history. Next to it is also the Imperial Academy, the highest education institute of these dynasties. Both these places must be on your itinerary as you visit Beijing.  

Timings : 8:30 am-6 pm (May to October); 8:30 am- 5 pm (November to April)

Entry fee : CNY 30 (USD 4.35)(combo ticket including Confucius Temple and Imperial Academy) 

How to reach : Take bus 13 or 684 bound for Guozijian Station or 116 or 117 to get off at Yonghe Temple Station.

confucius temple

19. Buy antiques from Liulichang Market

If you’re looking to take back exclusive mementoes from your trip to Beijing, this antique market is the place to visit. Stretching just over 750 metres, this street has everything from old coins, books, stamps, paintings, ink stones and more. Also lying in quaint corners are wine shops, teahouses, and restaurants. 

Timings: 9 am – 6 pm

How to reach : Use subway line 2 and get down at He Ping Men Station.

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liulichang market

20. Enjoy Kung Fu show at Red Theatre

The Chinese martial art has long fascinated people across the globe and Beijing’s Red Theatre is the best place to witness it. The theatre hosts a ‘Legend of Kung Fu’ show, chronicling the tale of a young boy who overcomes several obstacles to fulfil his dream of becoming a Kung Fu master. An amalgamation of acrobatics, dance and Kung Fu, this show is extremely spectacular.  

Timings : 5:15 pm – 7:30 pm (daily)

Entry fee : Ranges from CNY 280 (USD 40.62) to CNY 880 (USD 127.66). You can book tickets online via Red Theatre’s website .

How to reach : Use subway line 7 to Guangqumennei station and leave via exit D.

red theatre kung fu

(Hero and feature image credits: zhang kaiyv/ Unsplash)

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong

Related: Everything To Know About Potala Palace In Tibet

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: All China-bound travellers, including Beijing, require a negative COVID-19 report within 48 hours of flight departure.

Answer: Occupied by 22 million people across 10,000 sq km, you will need at least a week to visit the main attractions of the mega city.

Answer: Visit the National Museum Of China, 798 Art Zone or take a walk along the Hutongs for free in Beijing.

Answer: The months of April to May and September to October are perfect for visiting Beijing.

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Kriti Nayyar

Kriti Nayyar

Kriti is a stay-at-home dog mama, whose knack for telling interesting stories keeps her erstwhile monotonous life sane. A literature & journalism degree holder, you'll find her binging on Agatha Christie novels while critiquing the everyday state of affairs. On Kriti's seldom social outings, she's seen devouring coffee sangria with appetizing bread .. Read More on the side. Read Less

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14 things you can do only in Beijing

Tom O'Malley

Feb 23, 2024 • 8 min read

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Beijing has many personalities – here are the best things to do in this dynamic megacity © Maridav / Shutterstock

It's incredible to think that a little over a century ago, Beijing was a kind of low-rise walled fortress, its nine humongous gates locked shut every night. 

Today, it's the very model of a modern megacity, hurtling toward a brave new future – though with one foot planted in the past. To put it simply, Beijing does things its own way: it's a city of 9 million gig-economy e-bikes and about as many tech workers, of historic hutong lanes overhung with facial-recognition cameras, of endlessly inventive ways to get your foodie fix.

Things move forward so quickly in China's capital, so it's almost futile trying to pin down exactly what the city is. What is Beijing known for? It's better to go there and figure it out for yourself.  Here's our guide to the most memorable, unusual things to do in Beijing.

1. Get lost in Beijing's hutong alleyways

Beijing's highly wander-able matrix of residential lanes has been shrinking for decades, but despite the demolitions, it's still possible to lose yourself in neighborhoods that time (almost) forgot, where old folks play xiangqi (Chinese chess), walk their songbirds and haggle over a few jin of persimmons from a handcart seller.

Head to Xisi to stroll the alleyways, hear  Beijinghua (the local dialect) and marvel at the majestic White Dagoba Temple rising up over tapering tiled rooftops. After dark, a stroll through hutong streets is one of the best things to do at night in Beijing.

A street chef spreads scallions over batter on a griddle to make a savory jianbing

2. Eat jianbing for breakfast (every single day)

Take one giant crepe-style pancake, crack an egg or two on top, lather on some furu (fermented bean curd) and chili sauce, sprinkle with cilantro and scallions, fold around a shatteringly crisp sheet of fried dough… and eat! Jianbing is a Beijing street snack you can get all over the city for around a dollar – and it's so tasty that it's now trending as far away as London and New York.

Full disclosure: the dish actually originates in the neighboring city of Tianjin , where locals use chewy crullers called youtiao  instead of the crispy dough. Tianjin's version may be slightly more authentic, but Beijing's is better.

3. Go on a "wild" Great Wall hike

Seeing the Great Wall in its naturally eroded state, snaking away over the ridgelines of mountains with trees erupting from buckled watchtowers, is a sight more fantastical than anything the Game of Thrones art department could dream up.

It takes a bit of planning to skip the cable-car stretches rebuilt for tourists (and avoid the security guards posted at popular wild wall-hiking spots near the city), so it's a good idea to sign up for a day hike with Beijing Hikers . Let them handle the details so you can concentrate on the photographs.

4. Delve deeper into the Forbidden City

Most visitors to Beijing's UNESCO-listed centerpiece focus their energies on the Three Great Halls and parade grounds that comprise the outer court, and t hey are indeed awe-inspiring.

Yet it's by venturing into the tightly woven labyrinth of rooms and corridors to the north that you'll dig up the most remarkable sights. Don't miss the Palace of Prolonging Happiness , an unfinished, Western-style building of marble, cast-iron and glass designed to be a kind of walk-in aquarium; or the Belvedere of Pleasant Sounds, an elaborate three-story opera house with trap doors, tunnels and pulleys for special effects.

5. Go on a historical run

Keeping fit, exploring the city and learning about old Peking at the same time: what more could you want? The founder of a local tour company Beijing Postcards has combined his twin passions of Beijing history and jogging into a series of themed runs, clocking in at about 10km each, that stitch together hutong alleyways, leafy canal paths and little-visited parks.

Planning tip: You don't need to be super fit, as the run stops every few minutes for a brief intro to a particular sight or topic and finishes up at the company's hutong HQ for drinks and snacks.

A sculpture of a fierce, horned dragon mid-road in front of crowds visiting the Summer Palace

6. Explore China's most fantastical garden

Meaning "Garden of Preserving Harmony" but known in English as the Summer Palace , Yiheyuan served as a private royal playground on a truly epic scale.

Kunming Lake, at its heart is over 2 kilometers across, while Longevity Hill, raised from earth dug out to expand the lake, climbs 60m (197ft) over the water and is crowned with majestic halls, towers and pavilions. All this opulence was created for just one person: the Empress Dowager Cixi, who siphoned off funds earmarked for a new Chinese navy to design her dream retirement home. 

7. Gorge on the world's best Peking duck

Molecular gastronomy has nothing on proper kaoya (roast duck), and the dish Beijing gave the world tastes better in the capital than anywhere else.

T he distinguished birds served at Sìjì Mínfú  take days to prepare:  The ducks are dried, inflated with compressed air to separate the meat from the skin, basted in molasses, then roasted in open-fronted ovens over crackling fruitwood. Even the precise method of carving takes years to master and is an essential part of the culinary theater that's an exciting accompaniment to one of the world's great dishes. 

8. See the sunrise at Tian'anmen Square

Every day as dawn breaks, a People's Liberation Army honor guard marches out from under the giant portrait of Mao Zedong to raise the five-star Red Flag over Tiananmen Square . It's an iconic spectacle, full of pomp and swagger. (Supposedly, the immaculately attired soldiers are drilled to march at precisely 108 paces per minute.)

Planning tip: Don't worry if you're not an early riser; the same ceremony happens in reverse at sunset. 

9. Climb Beijing's twin towers

The magnificent Drum and Bell Towers are inseparable icons of Beijing. Until a century or so ago they were the city's official timekeepers, sounding out curfews and coordinating the patrols of the night watch. These days, you can climb both to see old-world views, hear an hourly drumming performance and gawp at China's largest bell.

But the monuments are actually at their most inspiring when seen peeking over rooftops as you wander the surrounding hutong alleyways of Gulou (literally "drum tower"). Beijing's hippest neighborhood, it's home to third-wave cafes, quirky boutiques and speakeasy-style cocktail bars.

People gather in front of vendors at Panjiayuan market in Beijing

10. Dig for treasures at Panjiayuan Market

Even knowing that pretty much every antique at this huge market is fake, Panjiayuan still offers an unforgettable shopping experience. In addition to ersatz Ming vases "aged" with fake dust and artificially tarnished Buddha statues, you can find replica Qing furniture, traditional handicrafts, calligraphy brushes, ink stones and more among the thousands of dealers. Stick to the last century, and you might dig up genuine Mao busts, Little Red Books, faded cigarette posters and the like.

Planning tip: On weekends, Panjiayuan starts trading well before dawn, which is when the best of the loot gets snapped up.

11. Drop a line to the gods at the Temple of Heaven

Less a place of worship than a divine conduit to the cosmos, the Temple of Heaven used to be reserved for the emperor alone, who twice a year would set forth with great fanfare from the Forbidden City in an entourage that included horse chariots, elephants and a gigantic sedan chair. After arriving at the open-air Round Altar, he would perform esoteric rites and ceremonies in the hope of summoning divine blessing for his continued rule.

Every detail of the Temple of Heaven's architecture is cosmologically significant, making it a fascinating place to ponder millennia of Chinese thought. 

12. Meet China's biggest dragon-tortoise

You'll see bixi (dragons with tortoise shells) at temples all over Beijing, holding up stone stelae upon which are inscribed the virtuous deeds of emperors of old. But the alpha bixi resides at the Ming Tombs, the final resting place of 13 emperors in a secluded valley outside Beijing. Weighing in at 50 tons, this stone giant carries a stele over 6m (20ft) tall and guards the Spirit Way leading to the tombs, an astonishing funerary avenue lined by a dozen pairs of carved animals, mythical beasts and officials. 

crowds at the Badaling section of the Great Wall

13. Ride a bullet train to the Great Wall

At the turn of the 20th century, travelers in Beijing went to the Great Wall by mule litter, a kind of sedan chair lashed between two donkeys. The reward for this grueling, two-day trek was Badaling , an astounding sprawl of brick battlements and watchtowers in the Jundu Mountains.

Since 2020, the bullet train makes the same trip in just over 20 minutes, stopping at the world's deepest underground station directly beneath Badaling, which has now morphed into a kind of Great Wall resort with its own Starbucks and KFC. Times have changed.

14. Dine in an imperial deep freeze

Royal Icehouse is a hard-to-find hutong restaurant near the Forbidden City with an icy secret in its basement: a royal refrigerator. The arched stone cellars were used to keep the emperor's victuals cool in summer, helped in the task by giant blocks of ice cut from the adjacent lake in Beihai Park .

It's a quirky setting for classic Peking duck and Shandong-style sweetmeats, like sugared crab apples, best washed down with a tot or two of the in-house own rice wine and medicinal liquor. (You'll spot it brewing in pig bladders and clay jars along the walls.)

This article was first published February 2022 and updated February 2024

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Best Things to Do in Beijing

17 Best Things to Do in Beijing [2023]

beautiful places to visit in beijing

China Travel Experts

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Are you visiting Beijing for the first time, or have you been living here for a while?

Either way, it's okay! I must say, you've come to the right place.

As a Chinese person, I'm very familiar with Beijing. I can tell you about some really cool things you must do in Beijing.

Furthermore, you'll also get some insider tips and hidden gems known only to locals.

Let's get started!

Cool Things You Must Do in Beijing

1.visit famous scenic spots in beijing.

best tourist attraction in beijing

Yes, as a newcomer to the city, the first thing on your mind is which attractions in this city you should visit.

Beijing, as an ancient city with a long history (China's capital for centuries), boasts many famous historical sites and modern tourist areas that are well worth a visit.

Here is a recognized must-visit list:

  • The Forbidden City. The biggest and most intact group of old imperial palaces on the planet, where emperors used to live in the past.
  • The Great Wall. A section of the longest city wall in the world, the enormous ancient Chinese fortification built at great expense to defend against enemies.
  • Tiananmen Square. The world's largest public square, a place every Chinese person wants to visit, the ceremonial plaza for celebrations when the People's Republic of China was established.
  • Fragrant Hills Park. A beautiful natural and cultural area, with mountains surrounding vegetation and palace complexes, renowned for hillsides covered in red autumn leaves.
  • Summer Palace. The world's largest royal garden, one of the foremost examples of Chinese gardening arts, possessing lakes, palaces and other cultural relics.
  • Beihai Park. Without the crowds of the Summer Palace, it has unique lake scenery and pagodas, as well as beautiful night views.
  • Prince Gong's Mansion. Beijing's largest ancient prince's palace, with luxurious decorations and a unique feng shui layout.
  • Yonghe Temple. One of the largest Buddhist temples in the world, drawing many pilgrims seeking blessings, reputed to be very efficacious.
  • Confucius Temple. The memorial temple for Confucius (an ancient Chinese sage), the best place to pray for academic improvement and career advancement.
  • Olympic Park. The venue for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, with magnificent structures like the Bird's Nest stadium and Water Cube aquatic center.

The above are generally the top attractions for visitors – they can get quite crowded on holidays and weekends, so I suggest going when others are working.

You can check my detailed list for the best spots in Beijing .

🌟Best Beijing Scenic Tours

2.enjoy the authentic local delicacies from the hutongs.

Beijing Hutong food

Beijing HuTongs, meaning old narrow alleys, are known for their low-lying tiled houses and grey walls.

Most date back to the Qing dynasty.

There are also many famous historical residences here, history everywhere. Being inside feels like you've returned to the 1900s.

These hutongs are where “old Beijing”( lao Beijing ) locals often go.

You can find all kinds of authentic local and outside cuisine here, as well as a dazzling array of trinkets.

You can stroll, eat and shop to your heart's content – an absolute blast!

Some famous hutongs are Nanluoguxiang, Dongjiaominxiang, Yangmeizhu Xiejie, Wudaoying and more.

Don't forget to visit at night, the small bars here are also very unique.

🌟Best Beijing HuTong Tours

3.take a boat cruise.

boat

Beijing has several inner rivers and lake parks, such as Shichahai, Summer Palace, Yuanmingyuan, and Houhai etc.

In ancient times, royal family members often traveled by boat, touring various attractions.

Now you can also have an imperial experience.

Here are some popular boat tour routes:

  • Beijing Zoo -> Royal Canal Cruise -> Summer Palace day tour, at the end you can admire the sunset over the Summer Palace lake.
  • Old Summer Palace cruise to enjoy lotus flowers and small animals.
  • Beihai Park rowboating, 100% recommend trying the human-powered boats.

In addition, I highly recommend taking a boat tour in Beijing at night.

A light breeze, a few friends, some beers – oh, it's so pleasant!

🌟Best Beijing Boat Tours

4.experience old beijing culture in qianmen street and dashilan.

Qianmen Street and Dashilan

Qianmen Street and Dashilan(Yes, it is pronounced as “dà shí lànr”, not Dà zhà lán. Many Chinese people often mispronounce it. If you say it correctly, they will surely be impressed with you.) is another area locals like to visit, with many preserved ancient buildings, surrounded by attractions like the Palace Museum, National Centre for the Performing Arts, etc.

There is also lots of good food.

When you're tired from touring the vicinity, this is a perfect place to take a break.

If you want to challenge your Mandarin a bit, you can go to Deyun Society to watch Xiangsheng comedy shows, lol.

🌟Best Beijing Qianmen Street Tours

5.treasure hunting at ghost markets.

Beijing night markets

Beijing's ghost markets, also known as night markets, are small goods trading markets that open only at night.

The main three are: Panjiayuan Ghost Market, Daliushu Ghost Market, and Dongpeng Market Ghost Market.

‘Treasure hunting' at these markets is a very exciting experience.

You can find all kinds of second-hand goods, countless handicrafts, and some artistic pieces hard to see elsewhere.

In my experience, picking out second-hand electronics here can be very affordable, as long as you check they aren't damaged.

You can also pick out some cute art pieces as souvenirs from your trip or gifts for friends.

As for some of the so-called ‘antiques', I think most are basically fakes, lol.

Finally, and most importantly, remember you must haggle – the vendors are happy for you to bargain with them.

🌟Best Beijing Ghost Markets Tours

6.have a drink at the shichahai bar street.

Shichahai Bar Street

If you're tired from walking around all day, feel free to go to a bar for a drink and to relax.

At night you can stroll along Shichahai, get some evening breeze, then head to the bar street, which has tons of bars.

Some are open air in courtyards, some on rooftops.

Great Leap Brewing is one I recommend – I've had great experiences there.

Additionally, Sanlitun and Gongti Xi Lu are also areas with large collections of bars.

🌟Best Beijing Bar Tours

7.experience cooking chinese cuisine.

making Chinese food

Interested in Chinese cuisine? Want to uncover the ancient secrets of making Chinese food? Now's a great chance!

You can take a few hour cooking class, with guidance from expert chefs on everything from ingredient selection to knife skills to cooking instructions, learning to make complete Chinese dishes.

Some famous options are available like: dumplings, Kung Pao chicken, sweet sour pork ribs, braised eggplant, etc.

Once you've learned, don't forget to show off your new skills to your friends, and bask in their admiration!

🌟Best Beijing Chinese Food Making Tours

8.shop for silk and watch acrobatic shows.

Silk and Theatre

If you have ample time, spending 4-6 hours in the afternoon shopping for silk and watching acrobatic shows is a great option, then go for dinner to try delicious Peking duck, mapo tofu, and jingjiaorou.

The silk market has not just real silk clothes and fabrics, but also many counterfeit luxury goods (they'll explicitly tell you they're fake, the final call is yours).

Also, haggling is a required skill – if you join a tour group, your guide will teach you pro tactics.

The acrobatic shows are another fantastic option – I find my fists clenching involuntarily along with the performers, as if I'm right there with them.

Very thrilling.

🌟Best Beijing Silk And Acrobatics Tours

9.stroll through the 798 art zone.

China Art Museum and 798 Art Center

If you don't like crowded places, then come for an art tour.

Beijing has many art galleries where you can see Chinese ink paintings, oil paintings, sculptures, ceramics, stonework and more, fully immersing in Chinese culture.

As for 798 Art Zone, it was an abandoned factory complex transformed into an arts district by free-spirited artists, where you can explore the blend of history and modernity.

798 Arts District's now Beijing's top spot for art shows, teaming up with the Picasso Museum in Paris . France's President Macron's even been there.

There are also many cafés, bars, and restaurants in the park.

This is my favorite place to unwind in Beijing with a beer and take things slowly.

🌟Best Beijing Art Museum Tours

10.enjoy traditional chinese massage and medicine.

Traditional Chinese massage and Chinese medicine

For me, getting a full body massage after tiring travel days is the best thing ever.

Chinese traditional massage can work almost every body part – if you have back or shoulder pain, tuina massage is great.

You can also get a foot massage, which is my go-to after all the walking sightseeing and shopping.

As for traditional Chinese medicine, you'll find it very different from Western medicine.

The most common practices are feeling your wrist pulse and looking at your tongue.

If you feel unwell but it's not serious enough for the hospital, you can try some TCM – it often has miraculous effects.

🌟Best Beijing Massage And Medicine Tours

11.try some baijiu(traditional chinese liquor).

Erguotou baijiu from Beijing

Have you heard of Chinese baijiu liquor? Want to give it a try?

Now's a great chance!

Baijiu is typically strong, with over 50% alcohol content, stronger than normal whisky.

The most famous baijiu from Beijing is Erguotou, found everywhere.

Drinking baijiu is usually a big challenge for foreigners.

They'll give you a small glass – start with just a little.

🌟Best Beijing Baijiu Tours

12.see the adorable pandas.

Brown bears and giant pandas

Seeing pandas in Beijing is a great opportunity – I suggest going early to avoid crowds, then head to the Summer Palace etc.

Besides pandas, the zoo has many other animals you can buy vegetables to feed and get up close with.

If you bring kids, it'll make their day for sure.

🌟Best Beijing Panda Tours

13.take a modern architecture and art tour.

Beijings marvels of modern architecture

Beijing has not just abundant ancient architecture, but also several stunning modern architectural sites.

I'm shaken emotionally every time I visit them, amazed by the Chinese people's superb construction capabilities.

These include: the CCTV Building, National Centre for the Performing Arts, the Bird's Nest, Galaxy Soho, Daxing International Airport (starfish) and more.

I recommend going in the evening to admire the beautiful lighting effects.

🌟Best Beijing Architecture Art Tours

14.enjoy freely riding bikes and seeing the sights.

Ride e bikes in Beijing

Hate being crammed on public transit or stuck in taxi traffic?

Why not try electric bikes or bicycles for flexible wandering and sightseeing?

As a frequent Beijing visitor, I now prefer getting around by e-bike, enjoying bypassing the crowded commercialized spots, finding original ancient sights in the hutongs, discovering hole-in-the-wall eateries with authentic local flavors only the locals know, and often having delightful surprises.

Given the language barrier, I suggest you hiring a private guide to experience the unique secret gems.

🌟Best Beijing Bikes Tours

15.want to do a amazing food challenge.

Beijing Food Challenge

This will be a test of mental fortitude, from brined pig offal, sour bean curds(Douzhi), to roasted insects including scorpions, spiders and centipedes.

Have you heard of these foods before, do you know they are edible?

As for me, I like to go to the hutongs to find delicious braised offal (pig lungs, liver, intestines chopped and braised together), and to go to Qianmen Street to taste delicious roasted insects (yes, creepy but delicious).

However, I cannot stand the sour bean curds!!! Wow, imagine the taste is like a week old spoiled soup left in the kitchen!

If you like challenges, you must try these unique foods.

🌟Best Beijing Amazing Food Tours

16.visit unique, less crowded spots.

peking man site stone flower cave and marco polo bridge

Popular attractions can be too crowded, especially if you go during Chinese holidays – the experience won't be great.

Luckily, you still have many unique, uncrowded spots to choose from.

Marco Polo Bridge(Lugou Bridge) is an important historical site from the Sino-Japanese War, where Japan launched full scale invasion. There are lots of cute stone lions.

The Peking Man Site is one of the earliest Paleolithic human sites, where you can see ancient caves and stone tools.

At Shihua Cave, there are many wondrous stone flowers, including stone bamboo, stalactites, stalagmites, stone waterfalls, stone curtains, etc.

🌟Best Beijing Less Crowded Spots Tours

17.indulge in an immersive royal banquet.

The gate of the Bai Jia Da Yuan

Bai Jia Da Yuan Restaurant was once a prince's palace during the Qing dynasty, and later the entire huge residence was transformed into a Chinese garden restaurant.

Today, it is a top Chinese restaurant in Beijing, retaining all the decorations of a traditional Qing dynasty palace and old-style pavilions, yards and gardens.

The service staff also dress in traditional Qing dynasty costumes, greet you using Qing dynasty etiquette, and there are also traditional Peking opera performances like face changing.

Being there makes you feel like you've truly gone back hundreds of years to the Qing dynasty and become a royal family member.

🌟Best Beijing Imperial Dinning Tours

18.wild great wall adventure.

Panlongkou Wild Great Wall

If you are interested in Beijing's Great Wall, you must have heard of Badaling, Mutianyu or Simatai, which are the most famous sections with the best facilities, but crowded, especially on Chinese holidays.

Luckily, there are still many undeveloped wild Great Wall sections around Beijing, such as Panlongkou, Huanghuacheng, Longquanyu etc.

Away from the traditional routes and crowds, these wild Great Wall offer a unique experience.

🌟Best Beijing Wild Great Wall Tours

What do tourists typically do when visiting beijing.

Most first-time visitors will choose to visit Beijing's famous attractions , and taste the local famous foods.

However, if you have already been there or don't want to go to those popular places. I have indeed listed some very cool things to do in Beijing in this article.

As for me, I now like to ride e-bikes to tour around Beijing, go to places I've never set foot in, and often discover surprises.

You May Also Like:

Top Tourist Attractions in Beijing.

Best Things to Do in Beijing at Night.

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

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. 

Tiananmen Square

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

Forbidden City Beijing

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

Sunset Jingshan Park

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. 

Xiangshan Beijing

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.

Summer Palace Beijing

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. 

Tianyi's Mausoleum

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.

Fahai Temple

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

Marco Polo Bridge

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 !

Beijing Hutong

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.

Temple Of Heaven

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. 

Foreign Legation

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.

Tianning Temple

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. 

Cuandixia, Beijing

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 . 

Great Wall Of China

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. 

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About the Author - Richard Barnes

Richard Barnes is our resident China, New Zealand and Central Asia expert, having spent more time than just about anyone backpacking and travelling around there. He is also one of half of the British-Chinese couple that make up abearandapig.com , a blog focusing on travel, life as a local and an expat in the middle kingdom and Chinese social media.

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24 of the Best Things to do in Beijing, China

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: November 13, 2023

Looking for the very best  things to do in Beijing  to make the most of your stay.  Whether you are passing through and taking advantage of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy or  visiting China  Beijing a part of your itinerary, this guide showcases all the things to do in Beijing plus tips and advice for places to say.

We show you how to get around Beijing, where to stay and how to avoid Internet censorship.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Beijing

Follow our interactive map to see all the things to do in Beijing plus their locations. Get your interactive map of our Beijing Itinerary

1. Great Wall of China

There is no doubt that the star attraction for people visiting and looking for things to do in Beijing is the  Great Wall of China . It’s a wonder that has fascinated the world for centuries.

Badaling Great Wall

There are several different sections of the Great Wall to visit in China, but the  Badaling Great Wall  is the closest to Beijing at only 70 km. This section of the wall is where the majority of Chinese tourists visit  the Great Wall.

The Badaling Great Wall is beautiful and impressive, but expect large crowds (mostly locals and Chinese tourists though so it is a very authentic experience). That Badaling Wall is accessible by local bus, tourist bus. Line 877 from Deshengmen or tourist bus line 1 from Qianmen.

Mutianyu Great Wall

The Mutianyu Great Wall is another hour farther from Beijing, but you will see far fewer crowds at this section of the wall. But it is just as impressive and stunning (if not more). Mutianyu isn’t as easy to access and it is recommended to hire a driver or take a tour.

Search what Great Wall tours  are best for you. These are easily canceled should you change your mind as long as it is within 24 hours of departure. And they can be easily booked last minute as  Get Your Guide  sets aside several last-minute tickets.

2. Forbidden City

It is the number one attraction in and with good reason. Built in the 1400s it was the Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties,  the Forbidden City  housed the ruling Emperors and their households for 500 years. It spans 180 acres housing a whopping 980 buildings and over 8000 rooms.

Only the Emperor and his subjects stepped foot in the city walls until 1925 when it was turned into a museum after the fall of the final Emperor.  Watch The Last Emperor  now .

It takes at a minimum of two hours to tour the Forbidden City, but it can easily be enjoyed all day. This is something you don’t want to miss when you are planning out all your things to do in Beijing. It is  best to take a tour  of the Forbidden City to understand what the sections and rooms are.

You can  book skip the line tickets in advance that can be easily canceled within 24 hours. It also includes a full day trip to Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. If you are on a time schedule, this is a great way to see the top attractions in Beijing in one day. You can book here  Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

3. Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square is often toured at the same time as the Forbidden City because of its close proximity. It is the largest square in the world covering 100 acres of land and there are many things to see. If you arrive at the square in the morning, you may catch the flag-raising and then watch the flag-lowering ceremony in the evening.

At the center of the Square, you’ll see Monument to the People ’ s Heroes standing proud. You will also find Chairman Mao’s tomb is located in Tiananmen Square. There is also the National Museum of China, The Great Hall of the People, the People’s Monument, the Railway Museum, and Tiananmen Gate (Gate of Heavenly Peace). Be sure to go into the gates for a beautiful view overlooking Tiananmen Square. Tiananmen Square houses the only two ancient city gates left in Beijing.

4. Beijing Hutong Tour

Located in the Sichahong District of Beijing, visiting the Hutongs of Beijing is a must. The Hutongs were nearly destroyed to make way for skyscrapers and newer developments, but they were finally spared and the last of the Hutongs are sitting on protected land waiting for tourists to explore.

Get lost wandering the streets. They weave their way to the lake and there are many eateries, hotels, and museums scattered throughout the hutongs. Visiting the Hutongs was our favourite of all the attractions Beijing and not many people really know about them.

5. Rickshaw Ride

If you really want to see a lot of the Hutongs, a rickshaw tour is a must. There are very popular and you can book in advance or you can hire one at the lake or on the main street. Step back in time and travel the traditional way by pedal power as you take in the daily life of these historic alleyways.

  • Book a Rickshaw tour  through the Hutongs to feel what it was like centuries ago and for a fast overview of the area.

6. Back Sea – Houhai

A man-made lake in Beijing, Houhai (or Back Sea) is a picturesque lake that is very popular among locals. This artificial lake is surrounded by shops and tea houses. You can take boat tours or simply stroll along the walkway taking in the energetic atmosphere. From here you can easily reach Pipe Street, the Drum and Bell Tower and easily explore the hutongs. Guided Tours are available here!

7. Pipe Street  – Yandai Xiejie

Walk along Pipe Street for shopping and snacking Beijing Food. Pipe Street was named so because it is shaped like a pipe. This is the busiest section of the Hutongs with snacks and thrift stores lining the street.

Known as Yandai Xiejie Street in Beijing, it is one of the oldest Hutongs in the city of Beijing. It is located just steps away from the Houhai (or Back Sea). Pipe Street is a busy and congested walking street, but a must-visit when you are exploring the hutongs.

8. Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a wonderful stop in Beijing covering a massive area of 2,700,000 square meters. Take a walk through the complex to see one of the most iconic buildings in Beijing. It is sectioned into three different areas and takes at least a half day to explore.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (Qiniandian) is the most iconic building within the Temple of Heaven, a circular structure with a triple-gabled roof, located in the northern part of the park. Emperors would come here to pray for bountiful harvests. It is renowned for its magnificent architecture and symbolic design, embodying the connection between heaven and earth, a central tenet of Chinese cosmology.

The Imperial Vault of Heaven (Huangqiongyu) is a smaller circular building enclosed by a smooth circular wall known as the Echo Wall because whispers can be heard clearly from one end to the other due to the acoustics. Inside the vault are the tablets of the gods for the annual worship ceremony. It is connected to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests by the Vermilion Steps Bridge, a raised walkway that ascends from the Vault to the Hall.

The Circular Mound Altar (Yuanqiutan) is an empty circular platform on three levels of marble stones, located in the southern part of the complex. It is used for the Heaven Worship Ceremony during the winter solstice. The design of the altar is based on numerology; for instance, the top tier consists of nine rings of nine stones, significant because the number nine was historically associated with the Emperor.

Choose from 1-day tours of Beijing including Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and more including lunch – Book tours here and receive easy cancellation within 24 hours of experience and last-minute bookings.

9. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)

The Lama Temple was one of our favorite temples to visit in Beijing. Built in 1694, it was an official residence for Eunuchs of the Qing Dynasty. Today the Lama Temple is a functioning school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Lama Temple was closed for 32 years after the Cultural Revolution, but it re-opened in 1981. Monks study and take care of the grounds as tourists come to see the massive sandalwood Buddha standing 18 meters (69 feet) high. The Buddha holds the Guinness Book of World Records for the tallest Buddha’s carved from a single tree.

10. Jingshan Park 

This is a pleasant park to visit where locals take badminton lessons, practice tai chi or simply relax in the  bonsai tree gardens. Tourists frequent Jingshan Park to climb to the top of the mountain for an overhead view of the Forbidden City.

The mountain was made from the soil taken from the moat creating a 45.7 meter high (150 feet) artificial mound that was previously home to the Imperial Gardens. It is worth the walk up the steps to view the rooftops and take in the Panoramic views of Beijing.

11. Silk Street

This shopping mall used to be an open-air street filled with markets. Silk Street is located in the lively Chaoyang District of Beijing and is not to be missed. The vendors have been moved indoors, but it is no less fun to visit! If you want to buy immaculate knock-off handbags, watches, or sunglasses, this is the place to come.

Be sure to bring your wallet and be ready to barter. You can walk away with bargains more than half their asking price if you know what you’re doing. Silk Street goods are considered some of the best and most authentic fakes of name brands in the world.

Another popular market to visit in Beijing is the Panjiayuan Antiques Market.

12. Wangfujing Street Night Market

Wangfujing Street is a busy bustling street, especially at night. During the day it is a popular shopping district but at night it turns into a very busy market. This is the place where you’ll see the weird and wacky of Beijing. Sea horses, scorpions and starfish are served on skewers. Some scorpions are still squirming and it’s not for the faint of heart. (it’s also very sad)

We couldn’t bring ourselves to eat anything and instead opted for dumplings at one of the many food stalls. But for a taste of the odd side of Beijing, this is an interesting visit. You’ll definitely be dealing with crowds and remember to bargain for your shopping.

13. Bell and Drum Tower

These two structures stand above the Hutongs to represent the symbol of the Old City. You can walk up for an overview of the area and see the largest and heaviest bell in China.

Built across the square is another tower standing 47 meters (157 feet) high containing one very large drum.

The drum and bell towers were used to tell time for centuries but was abolished after the cultural revolution. But in 2001 the drum and bell rang out the new year and have been used each year since to bring blessing to the people.

14. Bird’s Nest Stadium – National Stadium

The Beijing National Stadium was designed for the 2008 Olympics and is worth a visit to admire the architecture created by Swiss firm Herzog & de Meuron to represent a bird’s nest.

Olympic Park not only houses Bird’s Nest Stadium, but the surrounding architecture is just as impressive with the Water Cube (Cube Watercentre). If you visit at night, the Water Cube lights up with a gorgeous light display. The Water Cube aquatic center is open to the public so you can go for a swim!

Perhaps you may want to splurge and stay at the 7-star hotel and condo complex-shaped as a Dragon’s Head across the street. Football events and concerts take place at Olympic Park but you can  take an architectural tour of Beijing  to enjoy the modern designs of this growing city.

Visit the Ming Tombs

Visiting the Ming Tombs near Beijing is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur and solemnity of China’s imperial past. This UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the Ming Dynasty Tombs, is a collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming Dynasty.

The Ming Tombs serve as a testament to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), which is considered one of the greatest eras of orderly government and social stability in human history. The site encapsulates over two centuries of cultural and architectural evolution.

The approach to the tombs is via the Sacred Way, a path lined with stone statues of guardians that include animals and court officials. The layout and design of the tombs are guided by the principles of Feng Shui, intended to ensure a harmonious balance with nature.

Located just about 50 kilometers from Beijing, the Ming Tombs are an easy day trip, often combined with a visit to the Great Wall of China. This proximity makes it a convenient addition to any travel itinerary in the region.

15. Peking Duck

No trip to Beijing would be complete without tasting its most famous dish Peking Roast Duck. Peking Duck is a roast duck that is sliced to perfection and served at your table.

Hua’s Restaurant  is one of the premier places to sample Peking Duck with four locations throughout the city. Even if you are not a fan of duck, Peking Roast Duck is something you must sample once.

Serving of the Peking Roast Duck is an extravaganza as the chef brings out a large duck cooked to perfection and then slices it up with precision and artistry. You are then shown how to eat it by creating a tortilla-like sandwich with all the fixings. I don’t normally eat duck, but when in Beijing, I always eat their famous roast duck.

16. Beijing Hot Pot

Food glorious food. When in Beijing, delve into the food scene. A visit wouldn’t be complete without a hot pot meal.

17. Learn Calligraphy 

Set up a traditional Chinese Calligraphy Class. Calligraphy is offered at many places in Beijing and it is a relaxing way to immerse in Chinese culture.

We did our class at a museum where professional artists practice their skills. I admit, I think we had special privileges because we were in Beijing shooting a video for the 100 hour Visa, but you can book it easly.

Just ask your hotel concierge. Our hotel offered classes at the  Sandalwood Boutique Hotel  hotel in the Hutong district. It was an excellent place to stay right in the heart of the action walking distance to many top Beijing attractions.

18. World Tourism Festival

The International Tourism Festival is an event that has been going for 20 years and celebrates the tourism industry in China. It brings delegates from around the world showcasing tourism from their own country. It is definitely a good will festival that brings countries together.

19. Chinese Royal Gastronomy Museum

A restaurant extravaganza with fine dining, Dumpling making, dinner shows and a museum dedicated to food. You can also learn to make your own dumplings and then while they cook up your masterpiece, you can watch a traditional show and have your dinner!

20. Tai Chi in Beihai Park

Beihai Park is Beijing’s largest park and there are plenty of things to do here. A former Imperial Garden and Winter Palace of the Ming Dynasty. Beihai Park is located on a lake surrounding the beautiful Jade Flowery Islet.

Covering 171 acres, 69 hectares there are plenty of places to explore in the most important Imperial Garden in China. Not to miss attractions include, Nine-Dragon Screen, 5 Dragons Pavilion and the White Dagoba on the island. We took a Tai Chi Class in Beihai Park and found the locals to be very friendly.

21. The Central Business District

Marvel at the five-star hotels scattered among skyscrapers, high-end shopping, and fine dining.

There are walking streets, shopping streets and malls to explore. It’s not quite as impressive as Shanghai or Hong Kong, but the CBD of Beijing is worth a stop for a bit of shopping and dining.

22. Summer Palace

Located 8 km north of the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace is a good place to visit if you love Imperial Gardens. Also know as the Imperial Garden, the Summer Palace was completely destroyed in 1860. But it was rebuilt in 1888. Proving its resilience, it was destroyed again in 1900, but once again, rebuilt in 1012.

Spend a day exploring The Summer Palace and the Imperial Garden as you stroll through Pavilions and hallways. The Summer Palace is one of the top attractions in Beijing that is not to be missed. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Imperial Garden in China, it is a great addition to you Beijing itinerary. .

If you love seeing Imperial Gardens, Suzhuou is an amazing city filled with Chinese Gardens.

23. Take a Tofu Workshop

I honestly can’t remember where we took this class. I’ve searched the Internet and can’t find it. But our tofu workshop was a day trip from Beijing. It wasn’t in the centre and turned out to be further out of town near the Badaling Great Wall.

But there is a school in Beijing where you can learn to make bean curd (tofu) from start to finish. It was very cool to see how one of China’s staple dishes is made and we had our hand in grinding the soybeans to boiling the bean curd to finally eating and enjoying our hard work.

25. 798 Art District

For something a little different visit the 798 Art District of Beijing. This interesting area of Beijing has been turned into a gathering place and park at the site of an old electronics factory. It is very much an out of the way place but you can book tours to the Art Zone through Viator and TripAdvisor.

It’s worth seeing the contrast of the old German-style factory displaying contemporary modern art. The 798 Art District feels like the Raw Temple of Berlin than a Chinese City district with graffiti lining the walls, different art galleries and shops. If you are looking for something different in Beijing, 798 Art District is worth exploring.

About Beijing

Beijing is a massive city with a population of 21 million people . It is the capital of China filled with everything from ancient monuments to modern skyscrapers. The host of the 2008 Summer Olympics, Beijing will once again be welcoming the world in 2022 for the Winter Games.

There are many direct flights to Beijing from cities around the world including Toronto, London, New York , and Sydney. Beijing is filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, World Wonders and some of the best shopping in Asia.

Where to Stay in Beijing

There are many neighborhoods to stay in Beijing. But the three main that we recommend are near the Hutongs;  Shichahai Sandalwood Hotel  is an authentic hotel set in a former palace.

Downtown in the Business District right in the heart of skyscrapers and shopping malls. There is a beautiful  Ritz Carlton.  in the area and you can never go wrong with The Ritz!

Near the Forbidden City in the Dongcheng District an excellent choice hotels Beijing to be near the sites and plenty of dining options. You can check out reviews and book hotels on  TripAdvisor , Beijing.

We stayed in this area a few years ago and loved it. It was walking distance to many attractions and there were many things to do in Beijing at night here.

Getting Around Beijing

Beijing is a huge city that is spread out over 16,807.8 km 2  (6,489.5 sq mi) Traffic can be heavy and most people do not speak English, so we suggest hiring guides to take you to the top sights of Beijing.

Get Your Guide  is a great tour company that offers many day tours within and around Beijing.

There is no Uber or Lyft and the Chinese ride sharing is complicated without a local number and being able to speak Mandarin. But Taxis are cheap.

The subway is easy to navigate and is very reasonable, but it is crowded and closes at 11:00 pm. Cost is cheap at 3-7 Yuan

  • Tip: Keep a business card from your hotel so you can give it to taxis to get home at night. If you need to go somewhere, have the Concierge at your hotel write down the address in Mandarin for you.

Taking the subway in Beijing is very easy. If you are going to a specific tourist attraction, ask your concierge or at the hotel desk what stop you need to go to. Once you know the subway stop you need, it’s very easy.

  • Go to a machine, and choose the stop you want. Don’t worry, you can choose English to navigate the menu.
  • Before you go to the station ask your concierge or look it up on Google to see what subway stop you need to get off at for your Beijing attraction of choice. Then look to see what the final stop is on the line that your stop is on. . That will help you know what line to get on once you get into the subway.
  • And then when you get to the platform, look for the final stop to know which side to stand on.
  • When you click the destination you want, it will ask for cash.
  • Note:  Be sure to have small change as the machines only give back small denominations so you could be stuck with a lot of coins.
  • There are money changers in some subways but I wouldn’t count on that. And they usually only have small change so if you have large bills, you will get a handful of coins.
  • Make sure to keep your card handy while on the subway as you will have to swipe yourself in and out.

The subway charges by distance and is very cheap.

  • Check out these alternative things to do in Taipei

Plan Your Trip to Beijing

  • 1  USD  = 6.92 Yuan – Check  XE Currency Converter  for updated conversion.
  • The best time of year to visit Beijing  is in September or October. Pollution is low and the weather is very comfortable.
  • To chat with anyone in China, WeChat is the preferred social network.
  • Wifi is easily accessible at hotels, coffee shops and places like McDonald’s.
  • Get your  Lonely Planet Pocket Travel guide  to Beijing for quick reference and tips

You cannot access Google or social channels like Facebook or Twitter. We used KnowRoaming SIM cards on our phones and it worked better than our VPN on our computer.

The KnowRoaming SIM  is hosted outside the country giving you access to Gmail and all other social channels with ease. PlanetD readers receive 50% credit when ordering with promo Code DDSave50:  Visit KnowRoaming for details. 

We know many don’t travel alone, so it’s great to have two phones working overseas. How many times have you gotten lost and need to text one another? If you don’t use KnowRoaming, you must use a VPN. It is impossible otherwise to access your accounts.

Like this post on the top things to do in Beijing? Why not Save it on Pinterest fir Future Reference!

Read More: China and City Guides

  • 13 Things to do in Nanjing China – A Complete Guide to the Ancient Capital
  • 25 Things to do in Suzhou China – All You Need to Know Before you Go

24 Top Things to Do in Shanghai, China

  • Things to do in Hong Kong – The Complete Travel Guide to Hong Kong
  • Things to do in China – Must See Attractions and Places to Visit

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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13 Things to do in Nanjing China – A Complete Guide to the Ancient Capital

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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12 thoughts on “24 of the Best Things to do in Beijing, China”

I loved my 4 day visit to Beijing and have been wanting to go back ever since! Reading these 24 ideas has made me super eager to explore more of the city, thank you!

The Beijing city of China is a great place. That’s why I‘m planning to visit it in the month of May through a tour service. As a girl to travel alone it will be painful for me and I need guidance also. One of my friends recommended me a tour operator called Greatwall Trekclub. So I have prepared in my queue after hearing its criteria and service.

I would love to visit Beijing once and to have a walk on the Great wall of china. Thanks for sharing.

I absolutely love your posts! Even tho I dont travel much I love reading about raw experience of others, its wonderful.

I never knew that one could visit any country without a passport for certain amount of hours or days. Interesting.

This is perfect information since most airlines from China offer lower ticket prices from the US to Asia now. It will be good to spend a few days in Beijing and walk on the Great Wall and set foot on Forbidden City. Of course to try the authentic Chinese food like Peking Duck and the hot pot.

Thanks for all of the great information. We probably won’t make it to Beijing for another year or 2 unfortunately. Love the information about the Calligraphy, Tofu and Tai Chi classes. These interactive things are always our favorite while traveling. Also, the practical information about the internet, where to stay and getting around are so helpful! Thanks again!

I love Beijing. We’ve visited twice now and there’s still so much more to see. It’s such an easy city to get around and the people are so friendly. I think my favourite is probably the Summer Palace. So peaceful in such a busy city.

We have friends living in Bejing at the moment and are planning to visit, this is a great list we’ll def use! Thanks for posting

I’d love to visit China someday and expand my mind and blog about it as a temporary travel blogger. But I’m afraid to go there for now because someone famous talked greasy about them a while back.

It’s so great to know you are a writer that cares about the information you provide. This is smartly done and well-written in my opinion.

Very informative! Thanks for sharing this to us 🙂

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Where to visit in beijing — 15+ top, must-visit & best places to visit in beijing.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

As the second largest city and the capital of China, Beijing is always the first choice for many travelers to begin learning about the beauty of culture, history, and the people of China. Which destinations to explore in such a big city? So, where to go in Beijing, where to visit in Beijing, where to travel in Beijing? Let’s check out our top rated 15+ top places to visit in Beijing, best places to go in Beijing, best places to see in Beijing, best places to visit in Beijing, famous places to visit in Beijing, must go places in Beijing, must see places in Beijing and must visit places in Beijing as follows!

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beautiful places to visit in beijing

Let’s find out the top 15+ prominent destinations that you must visit when traveling to Beijing.

The Palace Museum, Forbidden City (#  best places to visit in beijing)

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, is located in the center of Beijing. This was the palace of the royal dynasties from the middle period of the Ming Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty in China. In 1961, it was recognized as one of the first national cultural relics. This place was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1987. Housed in the Forbidden City is the Palace Museum.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The Forbidden City is considered a symbol of ancient Chinese imperial power. The Forbidden City was built during the Yongle period, Ming Dynasty (1406–1420 AD). Covering an area of about 720,000 square meters, this is also the largest and most intact wooden building complex in the world.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

To get to the Imperial Palace, you will need to pass through Tiananmen Square, which is located behind Jingsan Mountain with Wangfujing Market to the East and Zhongnanhai Market to the West. According to Chinese feng shui and astrology, the Ziwei Temple dating back to the Middle Ages is the home of the Jade Emperor, corresponding to heaven and earth. The third emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Xi, decided to move the capital to Beijing and built this palace.

Imperial Palace — aka the Forbidden City interior, architectural masterpieces

In its more than 500-year history, a total of 24 emperors lived here. Surrounding the Imperial Palace is a 10-meter-high wall and a 52-meter-wide moat. Today, the Forbidden City is widely open to tourists for sightseeing activities, and this is also the top place to visit when traveling to Beijing.

  • Address: 4 Jingshan Front St, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100009
  • Ticket price: Normally RMB 40 per person and RMB 60 per person during peak season Treasure display palace: RMB 10 per person Clock display palace: RMB 10 per person
  • Hours: 8:30 AM – 5 PM (April – October) / 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (November – March)
  • Bus routes: No. 1, 4, 20, 52, 57; Tram 101, 103, 109; or subway

Summer Palace (# best places to see in beijing)

beautiful places to visit in beijing

This palace was built during the Qing Dynasty, located 15 kilometers west of central Beijing. This place is famous for its typical Chinese garden architecture. It is also the most intact royal palace in China to date. This place has one of the four most famous flower gardens in China. The area of Summer Palace is about 290 hectares. Summer Palace’s design is inspired by Kunming Lake, Wanshou Mountain, Hangzhou’s West Lake, and so on.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

It was constructed between 1750 and 1764, and three-quarters of the area is water. Summer Palace is known as Yiheyuan with a history of more than 800 years. The name Yiheyuan also means a garden that nurtures peace. In the past, this was the place where the royal family enjoyed visiting for pleasure and entertainment. In 1998, Summer Palace was honored to be recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

This place has been open to welcome visitors continuously since 1924. To visit the entire area would take you all day because there are many different attractions for you to explore and admire within the grounds of Summer Palace. The Eastern Palace Gate is where the Qing emperor discussed government affairs, hosted ministers, organized activities, and enjoyed music with large stages. The Hall of Joy and Longevity and Kunming Lake offer natural sceneries with blooming flower gardens where the emperor came to rest and admire the beautiful views. In addition, there are other locations such as Suzhou Street, Tower of Buddhist Incense, and so on.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Rd, Haidian District, China, 100091
  • Ticket price: RMB 20 per person and RMB 40-50 per person during peak season
  • Hours: 6 AM – 8 PM (April – October) / 6:30 AM – 7 PM (November – March)
  • Bus routes: No. 301, 303, 330, 332, 333, 346, 362, 375, 384, 394, 716, 718, 801, 817, 904

Great Wall of China (# best places to go in beijing)

great wall of china facts history 4

The Great Wall of China or the Great Wall is the common name for many ramparts that stretch about 8,851 kilometers from East to West. It passes through provinces and cities such as Liaoning, Hebei, Tianjin, Beijing, Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Ningxia, Gansu, and so on.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The Great Wall has an average height of 7 meters above the ground. The wall is 5-6 meters wide and was built from earth and stone during the 5th century BC and the 16th century to protect ancient China from attacks by the Huns, Mongols, Tujue, and other nomadic tribes from the regions that are now part of Mongolia and Manchuria.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

In 1987, the Great Wall became a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO. In addition, it is also on the list of the “New Seven Wonders of the World.” People believe that the Great Wall is China’s greatest man-made wonder, which also plays an important role throughout the country’s more than 5,000-year history.

1 great wall of china facts history (3)

Note: There are many opinions that the Great Wall can be seen from space but some American experts and astronauts have proven the opposite. They assert that there is no artificial structure that can be seen from outer space without supporting equipment. This has been agreed upon by China, and the country has corrected information in its publications and textbooks.

  • Address: Yanqing District, China, 102112
  • Ticket price: RMB 35 per person (low season October – December), RMB 40 per person (peak season March – June)
  • Hours: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Bus routes: No. 1, 4, 5

Great Wall of Badaling

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The Great Wall is one of the greatest architectural works in the entire world with the longest history, the most cultural significance, the most magnificent buildings, and the most beautiful landscapes. Badaling Ancient is one of the highlights of the Great Wall. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world come to visit this pass. Currently, the length of the Great Wall at Badaling is 3,741 kilometers. You can visit the attraction in all four seasons of the year. This place was officially open for visitors to explore in 1958 and soon became part of the Great Wall most visited by tourists.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Ticket price: RMB 35 (low season), RMB 40 (peak season)
  • Hours: 7:30 AM – 6 PM

Temple of Heaven – Tiantan Park (# must visit places in beijing)

beautiful places to visit in beijing

This is a complex of buildings in Southeast Beijing, east of Yondingmennei Road, Chongwen District. With a total area of up to 2.7 million square meters, this is one of the largest ancient locations for offerings in China. People’s Cultural Place located on the east side of Tiananmen Square was formerly a royal place to worship ancestors while Zhongshan Park on the west side was formerly agricultural land governed by Shennong.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Among the ancient temples of worship in Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is considered the largest and most extraordinary building. It was built in the 18th year of Ming Emperor Yongle (1420) and was later renovated by Emperor Qianlong and Guangxu. This is where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties in the past chose to hold rituals for worshipping heaven in Beijing and praying for a good harvest.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The Temple of Heaven consists of 3 building complexes: The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, The Imperial Vault of Heaven, and The Circular Mound Altar. On the winter solstice every year, the emperor and all his courtiers come here to conduct rituals to pray for good harvests and favorable weather.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

In 1998, the Temple of Heaven was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The Temple of Heaven is a famous beautiful tourist destination in Beijing and is also the largest of the four remaining platforms: Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Earth, and Temple of the Moon.

  • Address: 1 Tiantan E Rd, Dong Cheng Qu, China, 100061
  • Ticket price: RMB 10 (low season), RMB 15 (peak season)
  • Hours: 6 AM – 8 PM

Wangfujing Street (# must see places in beijing)

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The street stretching about 3 miles from East Chang’an Road to the China Art Museum is considered the most famous commercial zone in Beijing. During the Liao and Jin dynasties, Wangfujing was just a small village. Then, from the Yuan Dynasty to the Ming Dynasty, this place eventually developed with up to 10 new palaces being built. Wangfujing was renamed Shiwangfu Street.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

If you want to visit the busiest place in Beijing, let’s go to Wangfujing. You can purchase many items here from clothes to jewelry. The attraction is considered a “golden land” in the true sense.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng Qu, Beijing, China, 100006

Tiananmen Square (# top places to visit in beijing)

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Tiananmen is Beijing’s largest square named after “Tiananmen” – the city gate on the north that separates it from the Forbidden City. This square is about 880 meters long and about 500 meters wide, making a total area of 440,000 square meters. Its capacity is up to 1 million people, naming it the largest square in the world. This place once marked an important milestone in Beijing’s history with the May Fourth Movement, the December 9th Movement, and the 2020 Movement. You will find the Monument to the People’s Heroes here. The Great Hall of People is on the west side of the square, on the east is the National Museum of China and Museum of Chinese History, and on the south is the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Tiananmen Square constructed in 1414 is a symbol of Beijing tourism in particular and China in general. After the 1911 Revolution, the place was rebuilt and expanded, and in 1958, it was rebuilt on a larger scale. Tiananmen Square is surrounded by red walls, located between two majestic and massive gates Qianmen to the south and Tiananmen to the north.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Along the square are architectural works of other famous historical sites in Beijing such as the Great Hall of People, the Museum of Chinese History, and Chang’an Avenue. Coming to visit Tiananmen Square, you should stop by Mao Zedong’s mausoleum and the Heroes’ mausoleum to better understand the history of the country.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: Located in the city center, surrounded by other historical relics such as Qianmen, Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, and so on
  • Ticket price: RMB 15 per person
  • Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Bus routes: No. 1, 4, 20, 52, 57

Peking University (# where to visit in beijing)

beautiful places to visit in beijing

It is the most comprehensive university in China with many different majors from science and technology to humanities and medicine. The school was founded in 1898 as the first university established by the Central Government and is considered the beginning of modern Chinese education.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

At the time of its establishment, it was the most prestigious school and the highest educational administrative body in China, a continuation of ancient Chinese higher education in modern life. This is also the earliest place to spread Marxism and Democratic Science in China.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: 5 Yiheyuan Rd, Hai Dian Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100871

Yunmengshan National Forest Park

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Mt. Yunmengshan, meaning Little Yellow Mountain, is located at the intersection of Miyun and Huarou counties. It was formerly known as Yunmengshan Mountain, a famous tourist destination on the outskirts of Beijing. This is also the most famous national forest park in Beijing. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the magnificence of nature with high mountain ranges covered by white clouds, deep valleys, mountain peaks with many different shapes, and beautiful waterfalls like a strand of hair with lots of rich and rare species of flora and fauna.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The total area of Yunmengshan is around 2,208 hectares with the main peak reaching 1,414 meters above sea level. The climate here is also very cool, fluctuating 6.7 degrees Celsius lower than in the delta. This is a favorite picnic spot for Beijing people in the summer with an average temperature of only 20 – 24 degrees Celsius.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: HM4J+349, Miyun District, Beijing, China, 101513

Bird’s Nest Stadium – The National Stadium

beautiful places to visit in beijing

It is a unique architectural work expressing the concept of “science and technology, greenery and humanity” and is also one of the top 10 stadiums with the most unique architecture in the world. The Bird’s Nest is located on the grounds of Beijing Olympic Park with a total area of 11.59 square kilometers. The stadium was built to serve the 2008 Beijing Olympics and is expected to be used again for the 2022 Olympics and Paralympics.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The main structure of the project is created by two structural systems: The main load-bearing structural system includes 24 columns (hollow steel columns) and steel truss, arranged according to strict, geometric principles. Surrounding the main load-bearing system is a system of secondary bars, whose layout looks random. This secondary grid system has a diagrid shape, tilted outward in height (at an angle of 13 degrees compared to the vertical) and gradually curved, converging inside the field to support the roof of the stands. It is the tilted and twisted structure of these secondary mesh systems that create the image of sticks and fibers woven together in bird nests.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: 1 Guojiatiyuchang S Rd, Chao Yang Qu, China, 100101, at the northern end of the city center axis.

Chang’an Avenue

beautiful places to visit in beijing

This avenue is located on the main East-West axis of Beijing City, running along from Jianguomen to the west to Fungximen, and Tiananmen Square is located to the north. This is also considered “The First Street of China.” The avenue was built during the Ming Dynasty in the period from 1406 to 1420 at the same time as the Imperial Palace.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

The 8-kilometer-long axis of Chang’an Avenue was an important part of the plan for building the capital of Beijing during the Ming Dynasty. The symbol of China – Tiananmen Square – is located on Chang’an Avenue. This avenue also encompasses both sides of the Great Hall of People, Zhongnahai, and many other central offices.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Hutong Old Town

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Located right in the city center with an area of over 60 square kilometers, this neighborhood is the clearest expression of Beijing’s formation and development over 800 years. To this day, many roads, alleys, or siheyuan (an ancient square-shaped architectural style, the four sides are tiled houses with a unique structural entrance gate), everything is still preserved perfectly.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Formed and constructed during the Yuan Dynasty, Hutong Old Town is a piece of the soul of the capital Beijing even though it has been through many years. The ancient, mossy roofs with remaining old features plus the location next to the Forbidden City make this place even more attractive in the eyes of tourists.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Thirteen Tombs of the Ming Dynasty are located in Changping District, about 42 kilometers north-northwest of the center of Beijing. This is a collection of mausoleums built by Ming dynasty emperors throughout Chinese history.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

This tomb complex is located on the southern slope of Tianshou Mountain, based on the feng shui principles of the third Ming emperor, Ming Chengzu. After building the Imperial Palace or the Forbidden City in 1420, he chose the location and built his mausoleum. The Ming Dynasty emperors later built their tombs in the same valley area with a total of 13 emperors, 23 empresses, and many other concubines choosing to be buried there.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Currently, the Ming Tombs are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site called the Ming-Qing Royal Tombs.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: 764F+3C3, Changchi Rd, Chang Ping Qu, China, 102200
  • Ticket price: Changling Tomb: RMB 30-45 Dingling Tomb: RMB 40-60
  • Hours: 8 AM – 5:30 PM

China Central Television Tower (CCTV)

beautiful places to visit in beijing

With an overall height reaching 405 meters, CCTV is one of the tallest towers in the world and if you are not afraid of heights, let’s go to the observatory at 238 meters where you can see the entire landscape of Beijing. It will be an interesting experience. You can also use binoculars to observe the Forbidden City and Summer Palace in the distance.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

China Central Television Tower is located in the Haidian District, near Gongzhufen Railway Station. This is not only the headquarters of China Central Television (CCTV) but also a tourist destination you cannot miss when traveling to Beijing. A small note is that to visit the tower, you must buy a ticket to go to the top floors. However, visitors will receive free admission tickets when dining at the restaurant.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

  • Address: 32 E 3rd Ring Middle Rd, 呼家楼 Chaoyang, China, 100020
  • Ticket price: RMB 90
  • Hours: 8:30 AM – 10 PM

In addition to the list of the top 15+ most famous landmarks in Beijing that we have compiled above, there are still many other interesting places for you to explore such as Jiu Men Snack Street, China National Opera House, Beijing National Aquatics Center, and so on. We hope you have a great experience in Beijing!

beautiful places to visit in beijing

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beautiful places to visit in beijing

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Top 10 Landmarks in Beijing

Top 10 Landmarks in Beijing

Each city has its own unique architecture. When it comes to Paris, you think of the Eiffel Tower. When you mention London, you think of Big Ben. When you speak of New York, you think of the Statue of Liberty.

So, what are the landmarks of Beijing? Follow us to learn about the top 10.

1. The Great Wall

There is no doubt that the Great Wall comes first among the landmarks of Beijing. It is the longest wall in the world, at a length of 21,196 km (13,170 miles). Its construction started during the Warring States Period (770–221 BC) and lasted over 2,300 years.

Sections of the Great Wall are located in 15 different provinces, though some of the best-preserved and most spectacular sections are in and around Beijing.

Mutianyu is the most magnificent fully-restored section of the Great Wall, popular among foreign travelers. Badaling is the most popular section among Chinese tourists and more crowded. If you have no idea which section to visit, read Badaling or Mutianyu: Which is Better for Visiting? for some inspiration.

If you are a hiker, the Jinshanling and Jiankou sections may be best for you. If you would like to see some different scenery, try a night-trip to the Simatai section of the wall. It is the only section open for night tours. Read more on The Best 10 Sections/Parts of the Great Wall to Visit.

2. The Forbidden City

Built in 1406, the Forbidden City is the largest ancient palatial structure in the world. It covers an area of 720,000 square meters (0.28 sq. miles) with a construction area of about 150,000 square meters (0.06 sq. miles).

More than 70 palaces and over 9,000 rooms are located in the 961-meter-long, 753-meter-wide and 10-meter-high rectangular courtyard. The important palaces are on the axis of the courtyard.

A row of mystical animal statuettes features along the ridge line of halls. Red walls and yellow tiles symbolize the supreme power of the imperial family. The Forbidden City embodies the essence of traditional Chinese architecture.

Twenty-four emperors and their concubines lived here. Many stories relate what happened within this courtyard. Some of it changed the course of history, though some of it sounds ridiculous.

Step into the Forbidden City and see what it looks like. Imagine how the emperors lived in ancient times and explore stories and secrets behind the palaces.

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3. The Temple of Heaven

Covering an area of about 2.7 million square meters (667 acres), the Temple of Heaven was the place where every year the emperors of the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1636–1912) dynasties worshipped heaven and prayed for a good harvest.

The temple is famous for its precise architectural layout, peculiar architectural structure and magnificent architectural decorations. It is the largest well-preserved altar complex in China.

Main halls lie on a south-north line in the middle of the park about 750 meters long, beginning from the Circular Mound Altar, to the Imperial Vault of Heaven and on to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The structure and design reflect the core of Chinese cosmology, beliefs and religion from earlier times.

Nowadays, the Temple of Heaven has become an exercise park for local people. They go there every morning to practice tai chi, kung fu and sword-dances.

4. Tian'anmen Square

The design on the National Emblem of the People's Republic of China shows Tian'anmen. Tian'anmen Square is at the center of Beijing. It covers an area of 440,000 square meters (0.17 sq. miles) and can host a grand gathering of one million people. It is the largest city square in the world.

In 1949, Chairman Mao proclaimed the foundation of the People's Republic of China from the Tian'anmen rostrum. The Mausoleum of Mao Zedong is at the south of the square; where Chairman Mao's body lies in a crystal coffin.

Tian'anmen has been the site of several important events in Chinese history. It therefore has high status in the hearts of many Chinese people.

5. The Bird's Nest and the Water Cube

Both the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube were built for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. You can find them in the Olympic Park . In future, they will be renovated for the 2022 Winter Olympics.

The Bird's Nest is the world's largest steel structure. It hosted the opening ceremony, athletic events, the football final and the closing ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. It will host the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2022 Winter Olympics .

The Water Cube is the world's largest ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) application project. It features a unique bubble design. The surface of its "soap bubbles" reflects sunlight and makes the building resemble a water droplet glistening in the sunlight, from which it got its nickname: The Water Cube.

  • 4-Day Beijing Private Tour
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6. The National Grand Theater

Near Tian'anmen Square, the National Grand Theater, Beijing's largest, covers an area of 118,900 square meters (29 acres). The main building of the theater has a unique shell shape.

The theater's exterior consists of 18,398 titanium plates and 1,226 pieces of transparent glass. It is completely surrounded by a man-made lake, looking from the air like an egg floating on water.

Lights are dotted on the surface. When night falls, the theater glitters. Various concerts and traditional Chinese operas performed there will transport you into a wonderful world.

7. CCTV Headquarters Building

The CCTV headquarters building , completed in 2012, covers an area of 187,000 square meters (46 acres).

The main building consists of a 52-floor tower (234 meters high), and a 44-floor tower (194 meters high). The two towers are connected at 162 meters by a large cantilever. In 2007, the building was nominated by Time magazine as one of the world's top 10 architectural wonders.

There is an interesting thing about the building. Beijing locals jokingly nicknamed it da kucha (dàkùchǎ, 大裤衩, literally meaning "big underpants") because it resembles big underpants!

On the 37th storey of the building (more than 100 meters high), visitors can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city through its toughened glass floor.

8. Galaxy SOHO

Galaxy SOHO is the biggest shopping mall in Beijing.

Launched in 2009 and completed in 2012, the three-year building project covered more than 50,000 square meters (12 acres).

With its streamlined design, Galaxy SOHO attracts people's attention, especially its bird's eye view. Four individual buildings have their own atrium and circulation core, but are connected at different levels to create a flow of dynamic beauty.

But the mall has created controversy. Some people think it occupies too large an area in the center of Beijing and clashes with the architectural style of old Beijing. Others praise it for having brought new features to Beijing's architecture.

At least in terms of its grandeur and aesthetics, it can be regarded as one of Beijing's landmarks.

  • 4-Day Beijing Private Tour to Visit the Great Wall at Night
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9. China World Trade Center Tower III

If you want to talk about modern Beijing, you should mention the China World Trade Center (WTC).

The WTC is a building complex of 1.1 million square meters, now the world's largest international trade center. It consists of the China WTCTower III, along with Towers I and II.

The complex was completed in 2007 and Tower III is 330 meters tall with 80 floors. Located in Beijing's Central Business District, it integrates office, hotel, conference, exhibition, shopping and entertainment functions.

10. China Zun

China Zun (Zun in Chinese means a large ancient wine vessel) or CITIC Tower is the tallest building in Beijing, 528 meters high. It was completed in 2018 and is now in use, featuring office space, luxury apartments, hotels, and a rooftop garden on the top floor.

Its architectural conception originates from the image of "Zun", traditional Chinese ritual vessels. The building rises to the top of the clouds, demonstrating its indomitable spirit, and reflecting oriental charm.

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Explore Beijing's Iconic Buildings with Us

Create a trip and experience the charms of Beijing with us. We are eager to share the history of Beijing with you, along with interesting stories behind its buildings. Have a look at our popular itinerary below for inspiration:

  • Private 4-Day Emperor's Tour of Beijing : Explore the Forbidden City, visit the iconic Temple of Heaven, and walk along the Great Wall.

Feel free to make an inquiry and tell us your preferences and needs. We'll be happy to tailor-make your Beijing tour.

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The 10 Most Beautiful Parks & Gardens in Beijing

Zizhuyuan Park

Beijing has a long history of being the capital of imperial China, that’s why the city boasts quite a few imperial gardens and parks that are characterized with magnificent view, along with our favorite red-wall buildings. Besides, the parks and gardens are nevertheless a harbor from the hustling and bustling modern urban life. Here are the ten most beautiful harbors that Culture Trip selects for you.

Beihai park.

Beihai Park is the park that lives in many native Beijingers’ hearts. Built as an imperial garden during the Jin Dynasty (1115 – 1234 C.E.), it was listed as one of the National Cultural Relics Protection Sites in 1961. Except for seven years, from 1971 to 1978, during the Cultural Revolution when Beihai Park was shut down allegedly for the private pleasure of Mao Zedong’s wife Jiang Qing, it has been a home for pleasant childhood memories of Beijingers young and old. The White Tower Temple and the lake, that takes up over half of the park, are the two landmarks of Beihai Park. The lake is superb for seekers of outdoor fun during all seasons; you can either skate on the frozen lake in winter, or pedal across the tranquil waters on duck boats when it’s warmer.

1 Wenjin Street, Xicheng District, Beijing , +8610 64033225

Beihai Park

The ginkgo trees along this street are beautiful throughout the year, but they are especially photogenic in autumn when the leaves change to a beautiful golden color. The boulevard has become one of the best places for social media during the fall season. Remember to take a photographer with you when you go there, and beware of the crowds!

people cheering on a mountain

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Sanlihe Road (Outside the east wall of the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse), Xicheng District, Beijing

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMsIQQCA4Mz/?tagged=钓鱼台

Tiantan Park (Temple of Heaven)

Located in the Dongcheng District, Tiantan used to be the place of worship for emperors in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Approximately four times the size of the Forbidden City, it is the largest existing sacrificial complex built in ancient China, and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. It was opened to the public as a park in 1918 under the reign of Kuomintang. As well as the monumental Hall of Prayers, the grand lawn near the park’s entrance is also a beautiful place for photos.

1 Tiantan East Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing , +8610 67028866

Tiantan Park

Ditan Park (Temple of Earth) was made to worship the God of Earth by the emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The sacrificial ceremonies have, of course, long stopped now, but it remains a significant place for modern Beijingers as it hosts the most famous book fair in Beijing. Perhaps no park is as infused with the smell of ink as Ditan Park.

Andingmen Waidajie, Dongcheng District, Beijing , +8610 64214657

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Summer Palace

Summer Palace is the most famous garden that represents the history of the late Qing Dynasty. Originally built under the reign of the Qianlong Emperor and named Qingyi Garden, it was partly destroyed by the joint Anglo-French force during its plunder of the Old Summer Palace. In 1884, the Empress Dowager ordered the garden redesigned to suite her imperial abode outside the Forbidden City. It is believed that the luxurious redesign was so costly that Prince Chun, who was in charge of the project, misappropriated a large sum of the Navy funds to pay for it, which partly led to China’s failure in the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895. Now, Summer Palace is one of the best places to relax and view the lotus flowers.

19 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District, Beijing , +86 62881144

The Summer Palace

Jingshan Park

For lovers of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park is a place you would regret not visiting. Located on the northern border of the Forbidden City, you can have a bird’s-eye view of the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Rumor has it that Chongzhen, the last emperor of the Ming Dynasty, hanged himself on an old locust tree in the park when he was being chased by Li Zicheng’s rebel army.

44 Jingshan West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing , +8610 64038098

View of the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park

Huangchenggen Heritage Park

This comparatively young park was open to the public in 2001, but what it aims to exhibit is not at all young. The park was built as an outdoor museum featuring the Imperial City’s Dong’an Gate. The decision to turn the park into a museum was made during the construction of the park when the heritage of the gate was discovered. A small segment of the Imperial City’s wall, as well as a traditional Chinese courtyard between East Factory and Cuihua Hutong were also restored for the public to view.

Beiheyan Dajie, Dongcheng District, Beijing

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfQiT_LlzjR/?taken-at=503606279822944

Zizhuyuan Park

If there’s a vote for the most beautiful park in Beijing, then Zizhuyuan Park would win. The towering bamboo forest is a perfect place for you to find peace in the secular world, not to mention snap a beautiful photo. Fun fact, there’s an old saying in Beijing about Zizhuyuan Park: “Couples who go to the Taoranting Park will get married; couples who go to Zizhuyuan Park will break up.” So for superstitious couples, the park may be a place you want to avoid (which means that Zizhuyuan will be a haven for singletons!).

35 Zhongguancun South Street, Haidian District, Beijing , +8610 88412800

Zizhuyuan Park

Taoranting Park

Here’s the best go-to park for couples: Taoranting Park. Built in 1952, the park is a mixture of classical Chinese architecture and modern garden art. The feature of the park, Taoranting (Joyful Pavillion), became one of the Four Pavilions of China after its construction in the Qing Dynasty. The black board inscribed with golden characters of “Taoranting” is the calligraphy of Qi Baishi, one of the most influential painters in contemporary China. Taoranting Park is especially beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring.

19 Taiping Street, Xicheng District, Beijing , +8610 63588801

Taoranting Park

The Grand View Park

The Grand View Park is a park inspired by a grand novel, literally. It was built exactly according to the Dream of the Red Chamber, one of China’s Four Great Classical Novels, after the novel was adapted into a TV series in 1984. Here you can experience the life of the main characters of the book, and imagine more genuinely the romance between Jia Baoyu and Lin Daiyu. Near the north gate of the park, there’s a tea house in which you can observe Beijing folk arts and Tianjin crosstalk (comedic performing arts).

12 Nancaiyuan Street, Xicheng District, Beijing , +8610 63544994

A painting from a series of brush paintings by Qing Dynasty artist Sun Wen, depicting scenes from the novel Dream of the Red Chamber

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Best of Beijing: The Most Beautiful Places to See this Spring!

It’s often said that spring is the best time to visit Beijing and see everything the city as to offer. While getting out and about and experiencing everything isn’t exactly possible at the moment, that doesn’t mean you can’t start to make plans!

To that end, we have started our Best of Beijing series, where we will introduce you to the best that the Chinese capital has to offer, from food to flowers and from classical architecture to useful words and phrases especially for Beijing! 

Today we start with part 1 of our series: the most beautiful places to visit around Beijing!

The Summer Palace 颐和园

This is a beautiful spot with exuberant trees and grass at the foot of the Western Hills in the western outskirts of Beijing. As the biggest imperial garden in the world, it is definitely worth visiting.

Even though it’s famous for ancient architecture combined with natural scenery, it’s also a great place to see magnolias. The Hall of Joyful Longevity is filled with the fragrance of magnolias from the end of March to early April. This period is one of the best times to visit the site. You can also see cherry blossoms here in April.

How to Get to The Summer Palace Take Subway Line 4 and get off at Xiyuan station or Beigongmen station.

Opening Hours : Peak season (April 1 – October 31): 6:30-20:00 Off-season (November 1 – March 31): 7:00 -19:00 Address : No.23, Gongmen Qianjie, Haidian District, Beijing Price : Off-season 20 RMB | Peak season 30 RMB

The Temple of Heaven 天坛

The Temple of Heaven is located south-east of the Forbidden City . It is four times larger than the Forbidden City and was used by emperors to hold ceremonies during the Winter Solstice Festival and to pray for good harvests in the first month of the lunar year. It is China’s largest existing structure used to make sacrifices to heaven.

This should definitely be one of the attractions on your bucket list. It’s a wonderful place to explore Chinese history and culture, as well as being a great place to see lilac flowers in Beijing. Beijing’s largest lilac grove, consisting of 240 trees, is located inside this park.

As of mid-April 2020, some sights in the park are closed, but visitors can still enter and appreciate the flowers.

How to Get to the Temple of Heaven

Take Subway Line 5 and get off at Tiantan Dongmen Station, then walk to the entrance of Temple of Heaven. 

Opening Hours: Peak season (April 1 – October 31): 6:00 – 21:00 Off-season (November 1 – March 31): 6:30 – 21:00 Address: No. 1, Tiantan Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing Price : Peak season: 10 RMB | Off-season: 15 RMB

Beijing Botanical Garden 北京植物园

Beijing Botanical Garden , located in the Western Hills in the suburbs of Beijing, is a great place of natural beauty, and is a relaxing and inexpensive place to spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of big city life.

The garden is particularly spectacular in spring with all the blossom-laden fruit trees. In the largest peach blossom garden in northern China you can see thousands of different kinds of peach trees from late March until early May. There are also many other kinds of flowers and landscapes to enjoy. The hilly natural scenery around it contributes to the beauty of the place. A visit to the garden is a truly delightful experience!

How to get to Beijing Botanical Garden

Take Line 10 and transfer to the Western Suburb (Xijiao) Line at Bagou, then get off at the Beijing Botanical Garden station.

Opening Hours : Peak Season (April 1 – October 31): 6:00-19:00 Off-season (November 1 – March 31): 7:00 -17:00 Address : Xiangshan Wofosi Road, Haidian District, Beijing Price : Peak season: 10 RMB | Off-season: 5 RMB

Dajue Temple 大觉寺

With a history of nearly 950 years, Dajue Temple has many precious historical features. Standing at the foot of mountains, the scenery here is charming, with ancient trees, ceaseless water, and a tranquil and serene environment. The temple itself is appealing to those who are interested in Buddhism.

Constructed according to the mountain contours, Dajue Temple faces east, since the Liao people worshipped the sun. Covering an area of 1.5 acres (6,000 sq meters), it is composed of temple buildings in the middle, temporary palaces for emperors in the south and dwellings for monks in the north.

Dajue Temple is best known for its magnolia trees, planted almost 300 years ago. The magnolia flowers in Dajue Temple are exceptionally large, bright, elegant and fragrant. The ancient trees usually blossom around April 5th every year, during the traditional Chinese Qingming Festival.

There is a Tea House in the temple which offers a tea service with Taoist features, so visitors can sip tea while appreciating the flowers.

How to Get to Dajue Temple 

Take Bus No. 346 at Beigongmen subway station to Zhoujiaxiang and walk for 15 minutes or take Bus No. 633 at Qinghe Xiaoying to Dajue Temple. 

Opening Hours : 8:00-17:00 Address : No. 9, Dajue Temple Road, Sujiatuo town, Haidian District, Beijing Price : RMB20

Yuan Dynasty City Wall Relics Park 元大都城垣遗址公园

With a length of 9 kilometers (6.6 miles), the Yuan Dynasty City Wall Relics Park extends across Haidian and Chaoyang districts from west to east and is the largest linear park in Beijing.

The Hundred-Bird Garden, the only bird sanctuary in Beijing, is in this park. More than 2,500 birds such as black swans, ostriches, red-crowned cranes and green peafowls are bred in the garden. At the east end of the park is the largest marsh in metropolitan Beijing. The marsh, overgrown with carpets of water lily, bulrush and flag leaf, provides a wonderland to escape from the bustling city life

It also has the largest number of Chinese flowering crabapple trees in Beijing, filled with more than 3,000 crabapple trees, and you can explore whenever you like, as it’s open 24 hours a day, free of charge.

How to Get to the Yuan Dynasty City Wall Relics Park

Take Subway Line 10 and get off at Beitucheng Station.

Opening Hours : 24h Address : No.8 Shaoyaoju, Chaoyang District Price : Free of charge

Have you ever visited the places listed above? Are there places in Beijing that you feel are even better?  Let us know in the comments below, or on Facebook or Twitter . We always love hearing from you!

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8 Most Beautiful Places in Beijing in Autumn

September to early November in Autumn is the best time to visit Beijing, not only because of the pleasant weather, but also because of the charming autumn scenery, such as the golden ginkgo trees and red leaves blanketing the mountain slopes. What are the most beautiful places in Beijing in autumn to visit? Read the article below to find them out. However, when making the travel plan, you’d better avoid China National Day holiday from Oct.1 st  to 7 th , when these spots can be rather crowded.  

Fragrant Hills Park  (Xiangshan Park)

Mutianyu great wall.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

Gingko Avenue Outside the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse

The gingko avenue by the yonghe temple, pofeng ridge (pofengling) , gubei water town, yanqing baili landscape gallery, huanghuacheng lakeside great wall, you may like.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

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More Than Great Wall Hiking!

Discover the 10 Must-Visit Streets in Beijing

Written by Ricky

Explore Beijing’s Top 10 Streets You Can’t Miss!

Beijing is a city best explored on foot.

One of the best bits about walking around town is veering off into residential areas to discover pretty streets lined with characterful houses.

These streets highlight the peace and serenity in the bustling capital.

The following streets are especially worth exploring:

Wudaoying Hutong

1. Wudaoying Hutong Street

Wudaoying Hutong Street is a distinct gem tucked away in the heart of Beijing, China.

Renowned for its idyllic, historical charm, it distinguishes itself from other popular hutong destinations in the city.

Despite the city’s rapid modernization, Wudaoying has managed to preserve its traditional character while simultaneously embracing the new.

This delicate blend of the old and new adds a unique touch to its atmosphere, making it a must-visit locale in the city.

Wudaoying Hutong Street is conveniently located near the Lama Temple , one of Beijing’s most famous landmarks.

This historic Buddhist temple is a perfect complement to Wudaoying’s nostalgic aura, providing a cultural backdrop that further enhances the overall experience of visiting the area.

As you stroll down Wudaoying Hutong, the street is lined with an eclectic array of shops, each radiating a unique charm.

This is no typical tourist trap; here, you’ll find an assortment of carefully curated boutiques that offer an array of one-of-a-kind, handmade goods.

From vintage clothing and bespoke jewelry to artisanal teas and traditional Chinese handicrafts, the selection is varied and full of surprises.

Unlike many other hutongs where prices can be steep, the stores along Wudaoying Hutong Street offer their unique products at reasonable prices.

This makes it an ideal shopping destination for both locals and tourists who are looking for unique, high-quality items that won’t break the bank.

In addition to the shopping, Wudaoying Hutong Street is also dotted with a variety of cafes, teahouses, and restaurants.

Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Chinese meal, a quick snack, or a relaxing cup of tea, you’ll find a place that caters to your culinary desires.

Many of these establishments are housed in beautifully restored traditional Chinese buildings, adding to the overall charm and authenticity of the experience.

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beautiful places to visit in beijing

2. Yandaixie Street

Commonly known as Tobacco Pipe Street, Yandaixie Street weaves a rich tale of Beijing’s cultural tapestry.

Its peculiar nickname is a nod to both its unique, pipe-like shape and its storied past as a bustling hub of tobacco shops.

Today, it proudly stands as the oldest commercial district in Beijing.

Now a vibrant blend of old and new, Yandaixie Street showcases a delightful myriad of boutiques and street food stalls, making it a bustling paradise for those seeking unique finds and culinary delights.

However, its transformation has not erased its historical roots. The street was thoughtfully renovated for the Olympics (please insert the year for clarity), ensuring that it maintained its heritage.

Its modern veneer subtly intertwines with intriguing historical elements, making a stroll down Yandaixie Street a journey through time.

As you meander down this charming street, you will not only see the dynamism of present-day Beijing but also feel the pulse of its rich past.

Indeed, Yandaixie Street is not just a destination—it’s an experience, a story unfolding with each step you take.

Nanluoguxiang

3. Nanluoguxiang Street

Stepping into Nanluoguxiang Street is akin to stepping into a time machine.

This narrow alley, with its roots stretching back over a thousand years, presents a fascinating blend of past and present.

Although it only received its current moniker during the Qing Dynasty in the 1700s, its history is far older and much richer.

Today, Nanluoguxiang Street is a vibrant, bustling thoroughfare, well-known for its restaurants and specialty stores.

Each establishment is a treasure trove, offering everything from traditional Chinese delicacies to contemporary fashion and artisanal crafts.

The tantalizing aroma of street food intermingles with the hum of conversation, creating an atmosphere that is as engaging as it is intriguing.

What sets Nanluoguxiang Street apart, however, are the courtyards and the siheyuan structures that line its sides.

These traditional housing compounds, with their enclosed courtyards and compact living quarters, provide a tangible connection to ancient Beijing.

The siheyuan, with their grey-tiled roofs and red-painted doors, offer a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged over centuries.

Walking down Nanluoguxiang Street, one is struck by the contrast of the old and new.

The charming siheyuan, with their wooden latticed windows and ornate carvings, stand in stark contrast to the modern, trendy boutiques that now populate the area.

Yet, it is this unique fusion that gives Nanluoguxiang Street its character.

It is more than a tourist destination; it is a living, breathing testament to Beijing’s history and culture.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, Nanluoguxiang Street has something for everyone.

It’s a place where the past coexists with the present, offering a unique experience that is quintessentially Beijing.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

4. Shichahai Bar Street

Shichahai Bar Street, nestled in the heart of Beijing, offers one of the city’s most picturesque landscapes, serving as a serene oasis amidst the bustling metropolis.

Its crowning glory is its breathtaking views of the city’s lakes, their tranquil waters beautifully reflecting the sky and surrounding scenery.

As you meander along this popular destination, the world seems to slow down.

Despite its popularity, Shichahai Bar Street exudes a sense of tranquility that is both soothing and rejuvenating.

It attracts a diverse crowd of visitors, from locals seeking a respite from the city’s frenetic pace to tourists keen to experience a different facet of Beijing’s vibrant culture.

At Shichahai Bar Street, there’s no need to hurry. The charm of the place lies in its leisurely pace.

Take your time to explore the numerous shops, cafes, and eateries that line the street. Each one offers a unique flavor of the city, inviting you to immerse yourself fully in the local culture.

The ideal time to start your visit is at sunset, when the area takes on a magical quality.

As the sun dips below the horizon, it paints the sky in a symphony of colors, casting a warm glow over the tranquil lake.

The twinkling lights of the bars and restaurants begin to illuminate the street, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere.

Shichahai Bar Street transforms into a lively hub as night falls, its myriad of bars and restaurants coming to life.

From traditional Chinese establishments to modern, western-style bars, there’s something to cater to every taste.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet dinner by the lake or indulge in some vibrant nightlife, Shichahai Bar Street has it all.

Shichahai Bar Street

5. Wangfujing Street

Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing’s most bustling commercial hubs, is a veritable feast for the senses.

Its energetic atmosphere, the product of ceaseless activity and the ebb and flow of people, is truly contagious and a must-experience for anyone visiting the city.

It encapsulates the dynamic spirit of Beijing, ensuring that there’s always something to see, do, or explore.

This lively street boasts an enchanting amalgamation of traditional and modern shops, making it a shopping paradise for both locals and tourists.

From high-end international brands and sleek shopping malls to traditional stores selling indigenous handicrafts and antique curios, Wangfujing Street presents a broad spectrum of retail experiences.

This delightful blend of the old and new reflects the city’s evolving identity, a place where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.

But Wangfujing Street isn’t just about shopping; it’s a gastronomic haven too.

You’ll find an array of excellent eateries and street food vendors serving an extensive selection of Chinese cuisine.

Whether you’re craving Beijing’s famed Peking duck, adventurous enough to try street snacks like scorpions on a stick, or simply want a quick bite, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Adding a touch of elegance to this bustling scene are the street’s stately mansions.

Their grand architecture and beautifully maintained exteriors lend a decidedly regal air to several parts of Wangfujing Street.

These mansions, often converted into high-end boutiques or luxury hotels, are a testament to Beijing’s past, offering a sharp contrast to the modern developments around them.

dashanlanhutong

6. Dashilan Street

Dashilan Street, nestled in the heart of Beijing, exudes an inviting aura that remains distinctively authentic.

This intimate shopping street, with its cobbled lanes and traditional storefronts, is a world away from the city’s bustling metropolis.

Depending on when you visit, Dashilan Street can serve as a serene oasis, a perfect sanctuary from the usual hustle and bustle of Beijing’s city life.

This street beckons you to stroll leisurely, to immerse yourself in the local culture and rhythms.

It’s a destination that encourages a slower pace, an appreciation for the finer details.

As you amble along its charming lanes, you’ll find an array of shops that make for an enriching shopping experience.

From quaint boutiques to modern retailers, Dashilan Street caters to a variety of tastes and budgets.

One of the most striking features of Dashilan Street is its architecture.

The street showcases a harmonious blend of historic and modern structures.

Majestic buildings bearing the marks of time stand proudly beside contemporary establishments, creating a compelling contrast that mirrors Beijing’s evolution.

Shopping on Dashilan Street is a rewarding experience, with a wide variety of affordable souvenirs to choose from.

Whether it’s traditional Chinese handicrafts, vintage collectibles, or locally made goods, you’ll find plenty of unique items that make for perfect keepsakes or gifts.

Complementing the shopping scene are enticing snack shops that dot the street.

The delectable aroma of local delicacies fills the air, inviting you to take a gastronomic break from your shopping spree.

Whether you’re craving savory dumplings, sweet pastries, or just a comforting cup of hot tea, these eateries offer a taste of Beijing’s rich culinary heritage.

In essence, Dashilan Street is more than just a place to shop—it’s a place to experience the city’s authentic charm, to appreciate its past and present, and to savor its culinary delights.

It’s a place that leaves you with lasting memories, long after your visit has ended.

beautiful places to visit in beijing

7.Dong Jiao Min Xiang Street

Nestled in the heart of Beijing, Dong Jiao Min Xiang Street offers a unique perspective of the city’s architectural landscape.

It’s a journey into the past, offering glimpses of European-style buildings erected during the 1800s.

The street’s name, meaning “East Foreign Residents Alley,” is a testament to its historical significance as a residence for foreign diplomats.

Often referred to as the “Former Legation Quarter,” Dong Jiao Min Xiang Street is a charming enclave of Western architecture amidst Beijing’s predominantly Eastern aesthetic.

As you wander down this street, you’ll be treated to an array of well-preserved buildings that hark back to a different era.

From French Romanesque to American Gothic, these buildings showcase a variety of architectural styles that have stood the test of time.

The uniqueness of Dong Jiao Min Xiang Street lies not just in its architecture, but also in its ambiance.

Unlike the bustling streets of Beijing, this street exudes a quiet tranquility that invites you to slow down and appreciate the beauty around you.

It’s a tree-lined avenue that offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

One of the best times to visit Dong Jiao Min Xiang Street is in autumn when the trees adorning the street don a riot of colors.

The reds, yellows, and oranges of the fall foliage create a picturesque setting, making your stroll along this alley an incredibly relaxing and visually pleasing experience.

Despite its quiet demeanor, Dong Jiao Min Xiang Street is not devoid of activity.

It’s home to several cafes, art galleries, and boutique stores, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Dong Jiao Min Xiang Street promises an unforgettable experience that combines the charm of old-world architecture with the tranquility of nature.

liulichang

8. Liulichang Cultural Street

Liulichang Cultural Street , located in the heart of Beijing, is a treasure trove of Chinese folk art and antiquities.

As you meander through the labyrinth of small shops lining this street, you are taken on a journey through China’s rich cultural heritage.

The shops here overflow with an array of items, from exquisite pottery and intricate calligraphy to ancient scrolls and traditional paintings.

Every object tells a story, embodying the essence of Chinese craftsmanship and artistry.

Antique shops are a common sight in Liulichang Cultural Street, enticing visitors with their diverse collections of historic artifacts.

But remember, while many are genuine antiques, some are skillful imitations.

Regardless, they make for fascinating viewing, each item a link to China’s glorious past.

Even if you’re not in the market for souvenirs or antiques, simply browsing through the wealth of items on display is a delightful experience in itself.

Each store is like a mini museum, offering insights into different aspects of Chinese culture and history.

What sets Liulichang Cultural Street apart, however, is its architectural beauty.

The buildings that house these stores are as captivating as the treasures they contain.

Their traditional Chinese architecture, with grey-tiled roofs, carved wooden doors, and ornate stone carvings, are a sight to behold.

Following a significant renovation period, these buildings have been restored to their former glory, adding to the street’s aesthetic appeal.

But Liulichang Cultural Street is more than just a shopping destination. It’s a living, breathing testament to China’s cultural richness.

As you walk down this street, you’re not just a visitor but a participant in a centuries-old cultural narrative.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a casual traveler, a visit to Liulichang Cultural Street promises a memorable experience steeped in

diaoyutai street

9. Diaoyutai Ginkgo Street

As its name suggests, Diaoyutai Ginkgo Street, located in the heart of Beijing, is renowned for its stunning avenue lined with ginkgo trees.

This iconic street, with its stately trees standing like sentinels, is a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty amidst rapid urbanization.

The inherent charm of Diaoyutai Ginkgo Street truly manifests during the autumn months.

As the season changes, so does the hue of the leaves on the ginkgo trees, transforming from vibrant green to radiant gold.

This phenomenon turns the street into a golden corridor, creating an ethereal landscape that’s as stunning as it is surreal.

It’s a sight that captures the essence of autumn in all its glory, making it one of the city’s most photographed spots during this season.

But the allure of Diaoyutai Ginkgo Street isn’t confined to autumn. Regardless of the season, this street holds its own unique charm.

In spring, the ginkgo trees sprout tender green leaves, signaling the arrival of new life.

In summer, their lush foliage provides a cool respite from the city’s heat, creating a canopy of green that’s soothing to the eyes.

And in winter, the bare branches of the ginkgo trees, dusted with snow, present a picture of serenity and quiet beauty.

Beyond its natural beauty, Diaoyutai Ginkgo Street is also a place of historical significance.

It’s located near the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, an important political site where many foreign dignitaries have been received.

The street’s combination of natural splendor and historical significance make it a must-visit destination in Beijing.

In essence, a stroll down Diaoyutai Ginkgo Street is more than just a walk; it’s an immersion into the rhythms of nature and the passage of time.

It’s a reminder of the simple yet profound beauty that lies in changing seasons and enduring trees.

No matter when you visit, this street promises a sight to behold and memories to cherish.

sanlitun

10. Sanlitun Bar Street

A visit to Beijing would be incomplete without experiencing the pulsating energy of Sanlitun Bar Street.

Known worldwide for its vibrant nightlife, this bustling street is a hub of activity and entertainment, offering something for every kind of nocturnal adventurer.

Sanlitun Bar Street stands as an ultimate symbol of Beijing’s modern and thriving nightlife.

By day, it’s a trendy locale buzzing with shoppers and diners.

The street is flanked by high-end boutiques, hip cafes, and international restaurants, catering to a cosmopolitan crowd seeking a taste of modern Beijing.

However, it’s after sunset when Sanlitun truly comes alive.

The setting sun heralds a transformation, as the street dons a decidedly festive feel.

The lights from the myriad bars, restaurants, and clubs cast a luminous glow, painting a mesmerizing tableau of colors and shadows.

From stylish lounges and ritzy clubs to cozy pubs and live music venues, Sanlitun Bar Street offers a diverse range of options to cater to all tastes.

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a quiet drink, or simply people-watch, there’s a spot for you here.

The street teems with locals and tourists alike, each adding their own unique flavor to the vibrant tapestry of Sanlitun’s nightlife.

But the allure of Sanlitun Bar Street extends beyond its nightlife.

It’s also a great place to observe the city’s evolving urban culture, reflected in its modern architecture, avant-garde art spaces, and innovative food scene.

As you navigate the myriad lanes and alleyways that radiate from the main street, you’ll uncover even more of what makes Beijing special.

So, take your time to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this dynamic district.

The more you explore, the more you’ll understand, appreciate, and fall in love with this city’s unique charm.

In the end, a visit to Sanlitun Bar Street is more than just a night out.

It’s an immersion into Beijing’s contemporary culture, a spectacle of light and sound, and an unforgettable experience.

As you stroll down this dazzling street, you’ll not only take back beautiful pictures but also memories that will last a lifetime.

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Best Time to Explore

When it comes to exploring the beautiful streets of Beijing, timing can significantly impact your experience.

The best time to visit these streets is during the pleasant seasons of spring and autumn.

The weather during these periods is moderate, allowing you to stroll comfortably and appreciate the surroundings.

Moreover, these seasons coincide with various cultural events and festivals, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival and the Spring Festival, adding a touch of local flavor to your exploration.

Accessibility for Tourists

One of the advantages of these beautiful streets in Beijing is their accessibility for tourists.

Whether you’re staying in the heart of the city or on the outskirts, you can easily reach these streets through various means of transportation.

The city’s extensive subway network connects several stations near these streets, making it convenient for visitors to access them.

Additionally, public buses and taxis are readily available, ensuring that tourists can reach their desired destinations without hassle.

Landmarks and Attractions

The beautiful streets of Beijing are often located in close proximity to famous landmarks and attractions, enriching your exploration.

For instance, Wangfujing Street, known as the “Golden Street,” is within walking distance of the iconic Forbidden City.

As you stroll along this vibrant street, you can witness the harmonious blend of modern shopping centers and traditional architecture.

Another notable street, Nanluoguxiang, lies near the historic Drum and Bell Towers, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s ancient atmosphere.

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Traditional Chinese Souvenirs

If you’re searching for traditional Chinese souvenirs and handicrafts , these beautiful streets in Beijing offer a treasure trove of options.

Hutong areas like Nanluoguxiang and Wudaoying Alley are home to numerous boutique stores, selling exquisite items that showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of Chinese culture.

From delicate porcelain to intricate silk products, you can find a variety of traditional souvenirs that make for perfect mementos or gifts.

These streets are a paradise for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of China and bring a piece of it back home.

Recommended Restaurants and Street Food

Exploring the beautiful streets of Beijing is not only a feast for the eyes but also a culinary delight.

Along these streets, you’ll find a myriad of restaurants and street food stalls offering delectable flavors that cater to all taste buds.

From traditional Beijing roast duck to savory dumplings, the options are endless.

Be sure to try the famous “jianbing,” a savory Chinese crepe filled with various fillings, or indulge in aromatic street-side skewers.

These streets provide a gastronomic experience that complements the visual wonders, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

Beijing’s beautiful streets offer an enchanting and immersive experience for tourists.

With their unique charm, accessibility, and close proximity to famous landmarks, these streets provide a perfect blend of cultural exploration and leisurely strolls.

Whether you’re in search of traditional souvenirs, tantalizing street food, or simply want to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, these streets have something for everyone.

Plan your visit accordingly, and get ready to embark on a memorable journey through the heart of Beijing.

liulichang

1. What is the best time to explore these beautiful streets in Beijing?

The best time to explore these beautiful streets in Beijing is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant and various cultural festivals take place.

These seasons offer a comfortable atmosphere for strolling and allow you to experience the local traditions and flavors.

2. Are these streets easily accessible for tourists?

Yes, these streets are easily accessible for tourists.

Beijing has an efficient public transportation system, including subway lines and buses, that can conveniently take you to these streets.

Additionally, taxis are readily available for those who prefer a more private mode of transportation.

3. Are there any famous landmarks or attractions near these streets?

Yes, there are famous landmarks and attractions near these streets.

For example, Wangfujing Street is within walking distance of the Forbidden City, and Nanluoguxiang is located near the historic Drum and Bell Towers.

Exploring these streets will allow you to conveniently visit and appreciate the nearby attractions.

4. Can I find traditional Chinese souvenirs and handicrafts on these streets?

Absolutely! These beautiful streets in Beijing are known for their abundance of traditional Chinese souvenirs and handicrafts.

Hutong areas like Nanluoguxiang and Wudaoying Alley are particularly famous for their boutique stores, where you can find a wide range of authentic and exquisite items.

5. Are there any recommended restaurants or street food options along these streets?

Yes, there are numerous recommended restaurants and street food options along these streets.

Whether you’re craving Beijing roast duck, mouthwatering dumplings, or a variety of street-side delicacies, you’ll find an array of culinary delights to satisfy your taste buds.

Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local specialties and immerse yourself in the vibrant food scene of Beijing.

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Home » Asia » China » 15 Most Beautiful Places in China • (2024 Edition)

15 Most Beautiful Places in China • (2024 Edition)

Say hello to the land of ancient traditions and otherworldly landscapes! China is a country rich in history, culture, and natural wonders where fond memories are an absolute certainty.

A country like no other, China is home to over 1.4 billion people. Not only is it one of the most unique countries in the world, but it’s also the 4th biggest!

You may be thinking, a country of this size and magnitude is bound to have no shortage of beautiful places. Well, you’re right! Narrowing this list down to just 15 places was a mission in itself. But I’ve done it so that you don’t have to.

From vibrant cities to remote mountain villages, tourist favourites, and off-the-beaten-track gems, this bucket list of the 15 most beautiful places in China will inspire you to discover its diversity.

1. Xi’an

3. yangshuo, 4. zhangjiajie, 6. shanghai, 10. jiuzhaigou valley, 11. dunhuang, 12. zhangye danxia landform, 15. zhangzhou, how to see beautiful places in china, faqs about beautiful places in china, final thoughts about beautiful places in china.

Historic city wall in Xi an China

Uncover the secrets of Xi’an with a journey through its fascinating, ancient streets. This city is positively brimming with historical wonders and surrounded by magnificent mountain landscapes.

This makes it an essential destination for every adventurous backpacker. Best of all, there’s a plethora of pocket-friendly accommodations to choose from.

During my time there, I was absolutely blown away by the vibrance of the city’s Muslim Quarter and the archaeological wonder that is the Terracotta Army. An absolutely essential visit for anyone backpacking China .

If you’re planning a visit, I absolutely implore you to have a cycle around its ancient walls. It’s an experience you won’t forget anytime soon. Without a doubt, one of the top 10 places to visit in China.

You should also get better acquainted with the iconic Drum and Bell Towers and take a stroll along the cobblestone streets of Xi’an’s historic Old Town. The fusion of traditional and modern cultures you can soak up there is nothing short of magical. You should relish the chance to savour its authentic, affordable Chinese cuisine. 

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The Great Wall of China Beijing

Start your Chinese adventure in the bustling capital city of Beijing, a UNESCO World Heritage site. There is no shortage of great places to stay in Beijing , it should be everyone’s first stop in the land of the red dragon.

The city boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times and was officially established in the 13th century during the Yuan Dynasty. Since becoming the capital, Beijing has been the political and cultural centre of the nation. It captivates travellers from across the globe with its majestic palaces and historic landmarks.

You can look forward to exploring the extraordinary Great Wall of China, a sterling testament to human ingenuity, and witnessing the grandeur of the Forbidden City. It makes for a great full-day tour from Beijing . Not to mention, wandering through the ancient alleyways of the hutongs, for a unique shopping expedition.

You should definitely take a moment to relax in one of the city’s many enchanting parks and gardens while in Beijing as well.  My personal favourite is Jingshan Park. Here you can enjoy a peaceful escape with friends and loved ones while marvelling at the breathtaking, panoramic vistas of the city skyline. 

Li River and Karst mountains Yangshuo

Treat yourself to a stunning countryside escape by visiting Yangshuo, a picturesque town nestled amidst limestone peaks and winding rivers in China’s Guilin region. This charming destination is beloved for its rustic allure, colourful houses, and beguiling landscapes amidst the beautiful Karst mountains.

I, for one, was utterly enchanted by the awe-inspiring scenery I saw during my invigorating cycles on my rented bicycle. I can’t recommend the activity enough.

Be sure to take a cruise down the Li River too. And experience the lively atmosphere of West Street, Yangshuo’s cultural hub.

You can’t go wrong with a visit to the Yangshuo Cultural Museum or one of the lively folk festivals that showcase the region’s unique art forms and musical performances. It’s an excellent way to get closer to the local culture.

Yangshou is also a popular location for rock climbing and other outdoor activities such as fishing. The locals use a method called Cormorant fishing which, you guessed it, involves using Cormorants to catch the fish. This makes for an awesome watch.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Embark on a journey from Zhangjiajie into the otherworldly landscapes of one of China’s most beautiful national parks – Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. This location was the inspiration for the floating mountains in the Avatar movies.

Widely considered to be the most beautiful place in China , it’s often a unanimous favourite among travellers, not least, thanks to its mesmerizing canyons.

Here, you’ll have the chance to discover charming nearby towns, hike through towering sandstone pillars and traverse the surreal glass-bottomed Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Bridge. Not to mention, marvel at the breathtaking views from Tianzi Mountain.

As a bonus, the area is a total paradise for budget-conscious backpackers, with an array of budget-friendly hostels, campsites, and self-catering accommodations on offer. Be sure to take full advantage of discounted passes like the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Pass and the Wulingyuan Scenic Area Pass as well. Both offer unlimited bus and cable car access.

All in all, I’d say the sheer variety of scenic treks and affordability make it an ideal destination for backpackers seeking an extraordinary, economical adventure.

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Chengdu China

The beloved, culturally rich city of Chengdu is teeming with youthful energy and is a great option for budget-conscious travellers.

Nestled in the Sichuan Province, its history spans centuries, with its well-preserved Jinli Ancient Street beautifully reflecting this rich heritage. I had the pleasure of visiting this gem not too long ago and I’m not pulling any punches when I say that it was truly unforgettable.

My most cherished memory in Chengdu has to be ascending to the top of the Wuhou Shrine, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The city views and surrounding greenery from the shrine’s vantage point are simply spectacular. That said, getting up close and personal with the adorable pandas in Chengdu’s Giant Panda Research Base was also quite special.

As such, there’s little doubt that it’s one of the most unique places to visit in China. Well worth a visit.

shanghai bund china

Experience the cultural diversity of China’s most cosmopolitan city, Shanghai. As a global economic hub, Shanghai consistently seduces travellers with its rich history, spectacular skyline, and lively ambience. 

Naturally, you’ll be able to explore the grandiose Bund. A waterfront promenade showcasing the city’s historic architecture, and gaze at the futuristic skyline from the Shanghai Tower.

Don’t even get me started on the spectacular City God Temple’s sweeping views. Or, the magical, maze-like alleyways of Tianzifang and its hidden boutiques and cafes. To top it all off, the Dongtai Road Antique Market, which operates on weekends, is a treasure trove for bargain hunters looking for unique trinkets.

Be sure to capitalize on the Shanghai Public Transport Card. It offers unlimited access to buses, trams, and even boats across the Huangpu River. This thing makes exploring Shanghai’s best places a breeze.

Longji rice terraces Guilin china

Discover an enchanting blend of Chinese and Western influences in Guilin. A historically rich, southern Chinese city surrounded by ethereal hills and serene rivers.

With its mild climate, it’s an attractive travel destination year-round. It’s wide variety of budget-friendly accommodations and eateries only add to its appeal.

Its gorgeous karst landscape is also renowned for its stunning rice terraces. Taking a day tour around these rice terraces was unforgettable – and the incredible local cuisine doesn’t hurt either.

Speaking candidly, I’d say that sampling Guilin rice noodles, is an absolute must. Truth be told, I’m still yearning for them and it’s one of the many reasons it ranks amongst my top 10 places to visit in China. 

However, if you ask me, one of the most fun things to do in Guilin is embarking on a boat ride along the Li River. Here you can soak up scenic views and explore its fascinating riverside villages like the ancient Daxu. If you’re thinking about visiting during the summer months, you could even take a refreshing dip in its waters. 

Black Dragon Pool Lijiang

Get to know the ancient streets of Lijiang, a charming city nestled amidst breathtaking mountain vistas in southwestern China.

In my humble opinion, it’s a destination that should be on every backpacker’s bucket list, since it offers a glorious blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, culture, and vibrance. As it happens, it’s also fairly affordable and a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

During my time there, I simply couldn’t get enough of the traditional Naxi architecture and the bustling spryness I experienced as I wandered through the magical streets of its historic Old Town. The dazzling Black Dragon Pool, which is known for its lucid waters and jaw-dropping reflections of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, was another undeniable highlight.

If you’re yearning for a particularly scenic adventure, you could always indulge in a trek in the world-famous nearby Tiger Leaping Gorge. You’ll be treated to astounding views of rugged cliffs and cascading waterfalls. 

And if it’s a cultural activity you’re after, you’ll absolutely love Dongba Culture Museum, where you can learn about the unique customs of the Naxi people.

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Castle of Ice Harbin

Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. Harbin, the adventure capital of China, invites you to an unforgettable experience in a mesmerizing winter wonderland.

The area has a long, well-deserved history as a tourist hotbed and has drawn visitors since the early 20th century with its stunning landscapes and invigorating atmosphere. Today, Harbin attracts thrillseekers from all over the globe with the array of exhilarating adventure sports it offers. 

Whether you’re looking to skydive over the majestic mountains, bungee jump, or indulge in a bit of canyoning through gorges, this place has got you covered. That said, the excitement definitely doesn’t end there; Harbin’s streets come alive at night thanks to its incredible nightlife scene. 

As the icing on the cake, Harbin is also renowned for its astonishing hiking trails, gorgeous architecture, and magnificent ice sculptures on display at Harbin Ice and Snow World. Of course, strolling along the frozen Songhua River isn’t too bad either.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

The spellbindingly beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site, Jiuzhaigou Valley in the endearing Sichuan Province should be on every traveller’s radar.

It’s historically rich and steeped in Tibetan and Qiang culture. Its name translates to “Nine Village Valley,” referring to the nine Tibetan villages scattered throughout.

Just try to visit during the shoulder seasons, like spring or autumn, to bypass the big crowds and higher prices. Still, exploring Jiuzhaigou on a budget is definitely possible, since the park entrance fee is reasonable. Adding to this, there are many budget-friendly accommodations and eateries nearby as well as free shuttle buses and camping sites available.

Once there, you’ll be able to marvel at the unforgettable turquoise lakes, bewitching waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks as you hike along the trails. My fondest memory in Jiuzhaigou Valley is definitely trekking to the highest points of the breathtaking Zharu Temple and revelling in the valley’s exquisite surroundings though. 

As a delightful bonus, the valley hosts several museums, including the Jiuzhaigou Nature Museum, where you can delve into the region’s ecological wonders. 

Crescent Moon Lake at Singing Sands Dune Dunhuang

Travel off the beaten path to the oasis town of Dunhuang, located on the ancient Silk Road, which has a long history as a vital trade hub. 

Among many other things, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the extraordinary Mogao Caves, an intricate Buddhist cave complex, and the Singing Sand Dunes. Both offer affordable entrance fees and have reasonably priced hotels nearby. You could also experience a camel ride along the picturesque Crescent Lake.

Zhangye Danxia Landform

Witness the surreal colours of Zhangye Danxia Landform, a geological and budget-friendly marvel resembling a painted palette. Explore the Rainbow Mountains, which were formed by geological movements over millions of years, hike along the vibrant rock formations and capture ethereal photographs.

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We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Dali Yunnan China

Lose yourself in the diverse landscapes of Yunnan Province, a budget-friendly haven for backpackers. 

It offers affordable accommodations and delicious Chinese street food in spades and you can look forward to exploring fascinating and picturesque ancient cities like Dali and Shangri-La. It’s also a great place to explore unique ethnic traditions and local markets.

Potala palace Tibet

Venture out on a rewarding, spiritual journey to the roof of the world, Tibet. Take it from me, experiencing Tibetan culture and witnessing traditional ceremonies firsthand are truly life-changing experiences. 

If you want to save costs, try to opt for local guesthouses and group tours. My personal highlights include the ancient city of Lhasa, the iconic Potala Palace, and the incomparable sacred atmosphere of Jokhang Temple. 

Architectural scenery of volcanic island in Zhangzhou

Escape the crowds and head out to the remote village of Zhangzhou in southwestern China, known for its beautiful coastline, historical sites, and authentic local cuisine. 

With a history dating back over 1,300 years, you won’t have any shortage of things to do or see there. Personally, I loved getting to know the traditional cultures of ethnic minorities, witnessing ancient tea cultivations, and hiking through the scenic plantations of Puerh.

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We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…

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An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

China offers a wide range of transportation options for travellers that cater to a variety of budgets. Their public transportation system, which includes trains, buses, and subways, is the most cost-effective way to get around major cities and regions without a doubt. 

On average, their prices vary from ¥2 to ¥10 per ride. Budget buses, like long-distance coaches and intercity express buses, are a great option for travel between cities as well, with fares ranging from ¥50 to ¥300. 

If it’s flexibility you’re after, renting a car costs around ¥300 to ¥600 per day, excluding fuel and insurance, and carpooling apps like DiDi provide cheaper ride-sharing options in cities.

Travel Insurance is ESSENTIAL

Make sure you have some travel insurance sorted BEFORE you visit China. Most of the best travel insurance companies include China in their policies but always make sure to double-check.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Here are some answers to a selection of the most frequently asked questions about China’s beautiful places.

What are the most beautiful natural places in China?

For me, it’s the Karst Mountains of Yangshuo. Also, shoutout to Jiuzhaigou Valley and the Zhangye Danxia Landform. China really has no shortage of beautiful natural sites. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so there’s no perfect answer to this question.

What is the most beautiful city in China?

Beijing and Shanghai are the obvious answers. I think an underrated city in China is Chengdu. It’s not necessarily known for its beauty, but I found it to be one of the most stunning cities in my recent China visit.

What is the most beautiful ancient place in China?

The Terracotta Army in Xi’an for me. This place is simply an ancient artefact and anyone who has the opportunity to visit it is extremely lucky. Truly one of the most intriguing ancient sites in. the world. The Great Wall of China, of course, also carries with it great ancient significance.

China is a backpacker’s dream which offers a truly memorable blend of adventure, nature, and culture. This diverse country is a treasure trove of terrific travel experiences, with something to offer every explorer.

Don’t waste another minute. Make your bookings, pack your bags, and get ready for an extraordinary journey that will leave you with fond, lifelong memories in the Middle Kingdom.

If you ask me, the culturally rich, Xi’an makes for an excellent starting point. But any China trip is obviously incomplete without seeing Beijing and one of the wonders of the world, The Great Wall of China.

Terracotta Warriors

  • Check out the best hostels in Beijing to kickstart your Chinese adventure.
  • Know where to stay in Shanghai BEFORE you get there… trust me on this one.
  • With the best sim card for China you can stay connected, always.
  • Experience the very best China has to offer at one of China’s best festivals .
  • Explore some of the best national parks in China to reconnect with nature.
  • Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking Vietnam guide .

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sasha

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These Are The Most Beautiful City Squares In The World

T he planet is full of beautiful cities, some of which are among the most trending destinations in the world and come with a lot to offer tourists. Almost every city boasts a square, usually a large open spot that occupies the heart of a town.

Traditionally, city squares were common gathering and meeting places among the locals. Many of these squares are rectangular and feature either statues, monuments, or fountains in the middle. Surrounded by delicious restaurants, hotels, shops, and city halls, some of the city squares around the globe have been there for many centuries and are the places to see unique monumental architecture.

From Europe to Asia to South America, these are the most beautiful city squares in the world to visit and enjoy urban charm, fun activities, gorgeous architecture, and historical allure.

Related: 10 Of The World's Oldest Continuously Inhabited Cities

Piazza Navona, Rome

Dating back to 1 AD , Piazza Navona is one of the most famous and beautiful city squares in the world. It was originally built as the Stadium of Domitian or Circus Agonalis and used to host various contests and performances. The Stadium of Domitian was the first venue for competitive athletics in Rome, and vacationers can see the ancient ruins of the famed stadium.

Affected by various political and economic difficulties, the stadium eventually fell into disuse, with its arcades providing shelter to people experiencing homelessness. The arena later became a common gathering spot among the locals.

In the late 15th century, it became a public square, and immediately, the construction of beautiful buildings and fountains, including the Fontana de Quattro and Fontana del Nettuno, followed. These are perfect examples of baroque architecture and contribute to the gorgeous scenery of this square.

Piazza Navona's surroundings boast some of the oldest buildings in Rome and stunning shops. And delicious restaurants – and is among the must-visit places in Italy’s capital.

  • Dating back to: 1 AD

Plaza Mayor, Madrid, Spain

Pondering the best things to do in Madrid that will make one fall in love with the heart of Spain? Well, exploring Plaza Mayor in Madrid is definitely among the top things one can enjoy in the city, and usually one of the main stops for many vacationers.

Dating back to the 17th century, the city square was the center of Old Madrid at some point. It boasts a bustling atmosphere, impressive architecture, and plenty of delicious restaurants and nightlife spots that guarantee memorable experiences.

  • Dating back to: the 17th century

Red Square, Moscow, Russia

Situated in the city center, Red Square is Moscow's main square and one of the world's most beautiful city squares. It is home to numerous monuments, ancient churches, museums, and art galleries, each offering unique experiences.

One of the largest public squares on the globe, the Red Square was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. Top attractions to see here include the Moscow Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, the State Historical Museum, and the Church of the Virgin of Kazan.

  • Dating back to: the late 15th century

Plaza De Espana, Seville, Spain

Plaza de Espana is among the most breathtaking and famous places in Seville, one of the most amazing cities to visit in the region of Andalusia, Spain .

Designed for the 1929 Ibero-America Exposition, a special event that was to unite Spain and its former Latin American colonies, this plaza has been in existence for less than 100 years. Plaza de Espana played a very crucial role in symbolizing the beauty of Seville and Spain at large during the exhibition.

When it comes to architecture and design, Seville’s city square is one of the most spectacular in Europe.

  • Dating back to: Construction of the plaza began in 1914

During a visit to this plaza, tourists shouldn't miss out on boating along the beautiful canal that surrounds it. One can simply rent a boat and enjoy the gorgeous views of the square from the water.

Related: 9 Things To Do In Seville: Complete Guide To The Capital Of Andalusia

Meidan Emam, Esfahan, Iran

Meidan Emam is one of the world's largest city squares and is among the most spectacular, as it's surrounded by ancient buildings that date back to the Safavid era. Also known as Nagsh-e Jahan Square , the plaza is located in Naqsh-e Jahan, and its construction was commissioned by Shah Abbas I.

Of all the squares built in the Isfahani architectural design, this is the second-largest. Dating back to the 17th century, Meidan Emam is home to iconic buildings and landmarks, including the Mosque of Sheykh Lotfollah, the Royal Mosque, and the 15th-century Timurid Palace.

Tiananmen Square, Beijing, China

Located in one of the most beautiful cities in China, Tiananmen Square is among the most beautiful city plazas in the world and a must-visit for history buffs. Situated in the city's downtown area, this city square is brimming with fascinating historic buildings, fountains, billboards, and incredibly spectacular flower displays.

To enjoy the square at its most impressive, tourists should plan to visit either at sunrise or sunset during the Flag Raising and Lowering Ceremonies. Also, holidays like National Day offer incredible photo opportunities for those interested in capturing the beautiful memories of the place.

  • Dating back to: 1651

While Tiananmen Square in Beijing is generally a safe place for vacationers, one should definitely beware of their surroundings and abide by the rules and regulations of the place.

Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium

While not the most beautiful capital in Europe, its square is incredibly stunning - earning it a place among the most beautiful plazas in the world. Boasting impressive 15th and 16th-centuries architecture, strolling along Grand Place in Brussels, Belgium feels like a fairy tale and guarantees unforgettable historic experiences.

As a prestigious plaza, surrounded by guild buildings, the City Hall, and La Maison du Roi, a neo-Gothic building dating back to the 19th century, it hosts numerous concerts, fairs, and festive events, including the Christmas tree and light shows.

  • Dating back to: Construction began in the 11th century

St. Mark’s Square, Venice

Strolling through St. Mark's Square, one of the most famous, largest, and most beautiful city squares in the world, is one of the best things to do in Venice . The piazza started as a small square with not much to see but quickly developed into a popular gathering spot for the locals.

In 1267, the square was expanded and paved with bricks. Since its popularity continued, the pizza was later redesigned, with the initial bricks being replaced with natural stone. It is home to some of the most iconic government buildings and important landmarks, including St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the National Archaeological Museum of Venice.

  • Dating back to: the 9th century

Dam Square, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam, one of the most expensive cities in the world , is known for being incredibly bike-friendly and for offering some of the most striking attractions around the globe. Its Dam Square, which dates back to the 13th century, is among the most beautiful city piazzas in the world and occupies the heart of the city, near Amsterdam Central Station.

It is brimming with delicious restaurants, museums, and colorful shops. It is also an entertainment hub with plenty of options to choose from, including live music, comedy, dance performances, fire shows, and more. Some of the top attractions to explore include Royal Palace, Nieuwe Kerk, and Madame Tussauds Museum.

  • Dating back to: the 13th century

Related: These Picturesque Beaches In Amsterdam Guarantee An Epic Vacay

Cathedral Square, Havana, Cuba

Havana's Cathedral Square is one of its oldest and most iconic tourist spots. Initially, it was known as Plaza de la Cienaga , which translates to “Swamp Square,” and became one of the most important squares in the city immediately after being renovated in the 18th century. The Havana Cathedral, which was completed in 1777, dominates the plaza.

Boasting two incredible bell towers, the cathedral was constructed in the Baroque style and has numerous gorgeous paintings and sculptures on the inside. One of the best things to do in Havana is explore the Cathedral Square and the surrounding square.

  • Dating back to: the 18th century

These Are The Most Beautiful City Squares In The World

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  1. 9 Places You Need To Visit In Beijing, China

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  2. 9 Places You Need To Visit In Beijing, China

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  3. 11 Best Things To Do In Beijing, China

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  4. Top 10 Attractions in Beijing China

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  5. 7 Must See Places in Beijing

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  6. Best Things to See and Do in Beijing

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  1. 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Beijing

    4. Beihai Park Beihai Park. 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.

  2. The Top 12 Must-See Attractions in Beijing

    Top historical sights: the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Summer Palace, Lama Temple, the Temple of Heaven, the Ming Tombs, and Jinshan Park. Top cultural sights: the hutongs, Tian'anmen Square, Gubei Water Town. Top modern sights: Beijing Olympic Park, 798 Art Zone. 1. The Forbidden City.

  3. Top 14 Beijing Tourist Attractions, Beijing Sightseeing 2024

    From the continuous line of the Wall, there are some famous sections for visitors to go near Beijing city, including the most famous Badaling Great Wall, the less crowded Mutianyu Section and Simatai section, the beautiful Jinshanling, steep Jiankou, war-striken Gubeikou, strategic Juyongguan, unique Huanghuacheng, etc.

  4. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Beijing (Updated 2024)

    See ways to experience (646) 8. Jingshan Park (Jingshan Gongyuan) 2,953. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Located on the highest point in Beijing City, this park was built in 1179 during the Jin Dynasty and today provides visitors with sweeping views of the Forbidden City located below. See full details.

  5. Must-see attractions Beijing, China

    Southeast Corner Watchtower. Temple of Heaven Park & Dongcheng South. This immense fortress, part of the Ming City Wall Ruins Park, guarded the southeast corner of Beijing's city walls. Originally built in 1439 but repaired….

  6. 10 BEST Places to Visit in Beijing (2024)

    Enjoy a cultural tradition of watching a Beiing Opera performance at the Mei Lan Fang Grand Theatre. Visit a reconstruction of one of the original paifangs in the middle of the Xidan Culture Square. Gaze on the Miaoying Temple Whita Dagoba from the rooftop terrace at Bear Brew.

  7. 20 Best Things To Do In Beijing, According To Locals

    Beijing, China's capital city, can overwhelm on a first visit. Occupied by 22 million people across 10,000 sq km, the city can be challenging to explore. So, we curated a list of Beijing's top attractions to capture the essence of the mega-city. Beijing is home to a wealth of historical sites and a unique architecture and art collection.

  8. The Most Scenic Spots in Beijing

    It turns into one of the capital's most scenic spots every October, when bushes full of ginkgo leaves glow gold in the sunlight. 18. Beijing Stone Carvings Art Museum. This Ming Dynasty-era Buddhist temple on the edge of Beijing Zoo now houses a collection of antique stone carvings sourced from all over the country.

  9. The best things to do in Beijing

    13. Ride a bullet train to the Great Wall. At the turn of the 20th century, travelers in Beijing went to the Great Wall by mule litter, a kind of sedan chair lashed between two donkeys. The reward for this grueling, two-day trek was Badaling, an astounding sprawl of brick battlements and watchtowers in the Jundu Mountains.

  10. 20 Ultimate Things to Do in Beijing

    Here we describe for you the top 20 things to do in Beijing, a wide variety of experiences to cherish forever, including something for everyone. 1. Admire the Majestic Great Wall. Recommended stay: 1-3 days. Different Sections of the Great Wall. The Great Wall of China extends 4,000 miles.

  11. 17 Best Things to Do in Beijing [2023]

    3.Take a Boat Cruise. Boat rides at the Summer Palace in Beijing. Beijing has several inner rivers and lake parks, such as Shichahai, Summer Palace, Yuanmingyuan, and Houhai etc. In ancient times, royal family members often traveled by boat, touring various attractions. Now you can also have an imperial experience.

  12. Top 10 Places to Visit in Beijing

    Beijing is a mixture of both modern delights and traditional legacies of China. As a 3,000-year-old city, it retains so many historical places to visit such as the world-famous Great Wall, the grand imperial palaces and gardens. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Beijing to give a fast reference for your tour.

  13. 26 AWESOME Things to Do in Beijing, China (2024 Guide)

    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.

  14. 24 of the Best Things to do in Beijing, China

    There are several different sections of the Great Wall to visit in China, but the Badaling Great Wall is the closest to Beijing at only 70 km. This section of the wall is where the majority of Chinese tourists visit the Great Wall.. The Badaling Great Wall is beautiful and impressive, but expect large crowds (mostly locals and Chinese tourists though so it is a very authentic experience).

  15. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Beijing (UPDATED February 2024)

    8. Jingshan Park (Jingshan Gongyuan) 2,953. Points of Interest & Landmarks. Located on the highest point in Beijing City, this park was built in 1179 during the Jin Dynasty and today provides visitors with sweeping views of the Forbidden City located below. See full details.

  16. Where to visit in Beijing?

    In 1998, the Temple of Heaven was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The Temple of Heaven is a famous beautiful tourist destination in Beijing and is also the largest of the four remaining platforms: Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Earth, and Temple of the Moon. ... must see places in beijing ...

  17. Top 10 Landmarks in Beijing

    Follow us to learn about the top 10. 1. The Great Wall. The Great Wall at Mutianyu. There is no doubt that the Great Wall comes first among the landmarks of Beijing. It is the longest wall in the world, at a length of 21,196 km (13,170 miles). Its construction started during the Warring States Period (770-221 BC) and lasted over 2,300 years.

  18. The 10 Most Beautiful Parks & Gardens in Beijing

    The towering bamboo forest is a perfect place for you to find peace in the secular world, not to mention snap a beautiful photo. Fun fact, there's an old saying in Beijing about Zizhuyuan Park: "Couples who go to the Taoranting Park will get married; couples who go to Zizhuyuan Park will break up."

  19. Best of Beijing: The Most Beautiful Places to See this Spring!

    The Summer Palace 颐和园. This is a beautiful spot with exuberant trees and grass at the foot of the Western Hills in the western outskirts of Beijing. As the biggest imperial garden in the world, it is definitely worth visiting. Even though it's famous for ancient architecture combined with natural scenery, it's also a great place to ...

  20. 8 Most Beautiful Places in Beijing in Autumn

    There are ten best places to view such beautiful scenery: Yuhuaxiu, Kanyunqi Pavilion, Senyuhu Pavilion, Shuangqing Villa, Chanchu Peak, Jingcui Lake, Xianglu Peak, Xiangwu Cave, Heshun Gate and Xunlupo. Other famous spots dotted in the mountains worth visiting include Biyun Temple, Zhao Temple, Tranquil Heart Studio and Qinzheng Palace.

  21. Discover the 10 Must-Visit Streets in Beijing

    It's a place where the past coexists with the present, offering a unique experience that is quintessentially Beijing. 4. Shichahai Bar Street. Shichahai Bar Street, nestled in the heart of Beijing, offers one of the city's most picturesque landscapes, serving as a serene oasis amidst the bustling metropolis.

  22. 15 MOST Beautiful Places to Visit in China (2024)

    15. Zhangzhou. Escape the crowds and head out to the remote village of Zhangzhou in southwestern China, known for its beautiful coastline, historical sites, and authentic local cuisine. With a history dating back over 1,300 years, you won't have any shortage of things to do or see there.

  23. 24 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Beijing

    The World Park. Beijing's World Park offers the excitement of international sites without the travel. See All24Things To Do in Beijing. Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Beijing. Button. Button ...

  24. These Are The Most Beautiful City Squares In The World

    Plaza De Espana, Seville, Spain . Plaza de Espana is among the most breathtaking and famous places in Seville, one of the most amazing cities to visit in the region of Andalusia, Spain.. Designed ...