Things to do in Beijing-the ultimate guide

Beijing’s Must-See Landmarks: Discover the awe-inspiring Great Wall, explore the Forbidden City, and wander through the Temple of Heaven.
Cultural Experiences: Enjoy world-famous Peking Opera, thrilling acrobatic shows, and immerse in traditional Chinese tea ceremonies.
Food Lovers’ Paradise: Savor iconic Peking Duck, street food snacks, and hotpot at local restaurants.
ナイトライフ: Experience the city’s dynamic nightlife with trendy bars, lively night shows, and the sparkling lights of Beijing by night.

北京

Beijing, the capital of China, is a city where the past meets the future. From the ancient imperial palaces to the bustling modern districts, Beijing offers a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re an adventurer, history buff, or foodie, Beijing has something to captivate every visitor. This travel guide provides essential information on the city’s top landmarks, vibrant culture, local eateries, and shopping venues to help you explore like a local.

1. Scenic Spots & Historic Landmarks

Great Wall of China

Badaling: The most famous and well-preserved section of the Wall. It’s the most accessible, with cable cars available, making it a great option for first-time visitors.
慕田峪: Known for its scenic views and fewer crowds. It offers a quieter experience with stunning photo opportunities. The cable car here provides an aerial view of the Wall’s rugged beauty.
Simatai: For those seeking adventure, Simatai offers a more rugged experience, with steep sections and some areas that are perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Forbidden City (Palace Museum)

Once home to the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City is one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing. This vast complex contains over 9,000 rooms, showcasing a wealth of imperial treasures and Chinese history. The massive courtyards, majestic halls, and ornate imperial gardens make it an essential visit. Don’t miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony、その Imperial Garden、そして Clock Gallery for a deep dive into the opulence of ancient China.

天壇

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Ming dynasty architecture. The Temple of Heaven was where emperors conducted annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests. The most famous building is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, which stands as a symbol of Beijing. The surrounding gardens and parks offer a peaceful environment for visitors to stroll, practice Tai Chi, or take in the beauty of the ancient trees.

Summer Palace

A tranquil retreat for the emperors, the Summer Palace is a sprawling imperial garden complete with scenic lakes, hills, and historic pavilions. Visitors can take a boat ride on Kunming Lake, walk along the Long Corridor, and admire the Marble Boat. The Tower of Buddhist Incense atop Longevity Hill offers panoramic views of the entire palace grounds.

天安門広場

One of the largest public squares in the world, Tiananmen Square is an essential stop for any traveler. This historic site holds great significance, being the location of several important events in Chinese history, including the founding ceremony of the People’s Republic of China. It is also the gateway to the 紫禁城. Key sites in the square include the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, The Monument to the People’s Heroes、そして The Great Hall of the People.

Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)

A masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist architecture, the ラマ寺院 is one of Beijing’s most revered temples. It is home to the giant Maitreya Buddha statue made from sandalwood. The temple is renowned for its beautiful murals, intricate carvings, and serene atmosphere, attracting both worshippers and visitors alike.

Ming Tombs

Located in the northern suburbs, the Ming Tombs are the burial site of 13 Ming dynasty emperors. The most famous tomb, Changling, is open to visitors and offers a fascinating look at ancient Chinese burial customs. The Sacred Way, lined with statues of animals and officials, is the main entrance to the tomb complex.

Beihai Park

A peaceful retreat just north of the Forbidden City, Beihai Park is one of the oldest imperial gardens in China. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on Beihai Lake, explore the white-topped Baita (White Pagoda), or walk through lush gardens and ancient temples.

The Bell and Drum Towers

Located near Houhai Lake, these towers were once used to mark the time during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Climbing to the top of the Drum Tower offers stunning views of the old city, and you can watch a live drum performance.

Nanluoguxiang

A charming, narrow alley filled with traditional Beijing architecture, cafes, shops, and bars. A great place to explore old Beijing, taste local snacks, and buy unique souvenirs. It’s a perfect blend of history and modernity, with a youthful vibe.

Xiangshan (Fragrant Hills Park)

A beautiful park located on the outskirts of Beijing, famous for its vibrant fall foliage and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike up to the top of Fragrant Hills and visit the Temple of Azure Clouds, a serene Buddhist temple located on the hilltop.

2. Night Shows & Cultural Experiences

Peking Opera

A must-see for any cultural enthusiast, Peking Opera combines elaborate costumes, stylized performances, and unique vocal techniques to tell traditional Chinese stories. The Liyuan Theatre is one of the best places to watch this world-famous art form.

Acrobatic Shows

For a truly breathtaking experience, Beijing’s Chaoyang Theatre offers stunning acrobatic performances that blend traditional Chinese skills with modern techniques. From human pyramids to mind-boggling aerial performances, these shows will leave you amazed.

Kung Fu Shows

Watch the iconic Shaolin Kung Fu at the Red Theatre in Beijing. These shows feature incredible displays of martial arts, acrobatics, and dance that tell a story through physical movement.

Traditional Tea Ceremonies

A visit to a traditional teahouse offers an immersive cultural experience. You can learn about the centuries-old Chinese tea-drinking customs and enjoy a variety of locally sourced teas.

3. Delicious Eateries & Dining Experiences

Peking Duck

The crown jewel of Beijing’s culinary scene, Peking Duck is a must-try. The duck is roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender, then served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. Quanjude そして Da Dong are two of the most famous restaurants serving this iconic dish.

Street Food Markets

Wangfujing Snack Street is a bustling market where visitors can sample a variety of street food, including skewered meats, dumplings, and exotic snacks like scorpions on sticks. The Nanluoguxiang area also offers traditional snacks like jianbing (Chinese pancake) and baozi (steamed buns).

Hotpot & Dumplings

For those who love hotpot, Hai Di Lao offers an interactive dining experience with a variety of broths and ingredients. Dumplings are another Beijing favorite, and Jing Cai Tang そして Dadong serve some of the best dumplings in the city, from steamed to fried varieties.

4. Shopping & Local Markets

Silk Market

その Silk Market is one of Beijing’s most famous shopping destinations. It’s a multi-story market where you can find everything from silk garments and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. Don’t forget to haggle for the best deals.

Panjiayuan Antique Market

A treasure trove of Chinese antiques, Panjiayuan is the place to find everything from ancient pottery to old paintings, calligraphy, and other collectibles. This market is perfect for those seeking unique and traditional souvenirs.

Wangfujing Street

A bustling shopping street offering both luxury brands and local goods. The area is also known for its snack street, where visitors can taste everything from local delicacies to international treats.

5. Relaxation & Leisure

Beihai Park そして Ritan Park provide peaceful spots for visitors to relax, have a picnic, or take part in local activities like Tai Chi or traditional dance. Tea houses in the city offer an escape from the hustle and bustle, with the opportunity to enjoy authentic Chinese tea and experience a traditional tea ceremony.

Beijing is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering a wealth of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences. Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks, indulging in local cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, Beijing promises to be an unforgettable destination. Don’t miss out on exploring this dynamic city with us. Book your tour today and experience the best of Beijing!