Beijing, Northern China
Beijing, the capital city of China, is a fascinating blend of ancient culture and modern development. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, vibrant food scene, and lively nightlife, Beijing offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
Tourist Attractions in Beijing
The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
- Description: One of the most iconic sites in Beijing, the Forbidden City served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its stunning architecture and vast grounds make it a must-visit.
- Highlights: Golden-roofed palaces, intricate courtyards, and imperial treasures.
- Entrance Fee: ¥60 (April to October); ¥40 (November to March).
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (April to October); 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (November to March). Closed on Mondays.
- How to Get There: Take Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West Station. The entrance is at the northern end of Tiananmen Square.
The Great Wall (Mutianyu Section)
- Description: One of the most famous wonders of the world, the Great Wall spans thousands of kilometers. The Mutianyu section is well-preserved and less crowded, offering panoramic views.
- Highlights: Majestic mountain scenery, ancient watchtowers.
- Entrance Fee: ¥40 for adults, ¥20 for children. The cable car costs an additional ¥100 (round trip).
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- How to Get There: Take a bus from Dongzhimen Station or hire a private driver for convenience (approximately 1.5 hours from downtown Beijing).
Tiananmen Square
- Description: The largest public square in the world, Tiananmen Square is a symbol of China’s national pride. It’s surrounded by significant buildings, including the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China.
- Highlights: Monument to the People’s Heroes, Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum.
- Entrance Fee: Free (entry to Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum: free but ID is required).
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM, closed on Mondays).
- How to Get There: Subway Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West Station.
Temple of Heaven
- Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this temple was used by emperors to pray for good harvests. The park surrounding the temple is a beautiful place to explore.
- Highlights: The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, Echo Wall, and Circular Mound Altar.
- Entrance Fee: ¥35 (April to October); ¥30 (November to March).
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM (park); 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (main buildings).
- How to Get There: Subway Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station.
Summer Palace
- Description: The Summer Palace is an opulent royal retreat with a stunning lake, pavilions, and bridges. It’s a great spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Highlights: Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill, the Marble Boat.
- Entrance Fee: ¥30 (April to October); ¥20 (November to March).
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM (April to October); 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November to March).
- How to Get There: Subway Line 4 to Beigongmen Station.
How to Get Around Beijing
- Subway: The Beijing Subway system is extensive, affordable, and the best way to get around the city. Most tourist attractions are easily accessible via subway.
- Buses: Beijing has an extensive bus network, though it can be challenging for non-Chinese speakers. Use apps like Baidu Maps for real-time information.
- Taxis and Ride-hailing: Taxis are plentiful but ensure the driver uses the meter. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi are popular alternatives.
- Bicycles and E-bikes: Bike-sharing services such as Mobike and Ofo are popular and convenient for short distances.
Popular Local Food in Beijing
- Peking Duck: Beijing’s signature dish, famous for its crispy skin and succulent meat, often served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. Recommended Spot: Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant.
- Zhajiangmian (Noodles with Fried Bean Sauce): A savory noodle dish topped with minced pork and fermented soybean paste.
- Jianbing (Chinese Crepes): A popular breakfast street food, jianbing is made with eggs, flour, and various fillings.
- Lamb Hotpot: A Beijing winter favorite, featuring thin slices of lamb cooked in a communal hotpot with vegetables.
Top Nightlife Spots in Beijing
Sanlitun Bar Street
- Description: One of the most vibrant nightlife districts in Beijing, Sanlitun offers an array of bars, nightclubs, and lounges. Popular with both locals and expats.
- Popular Spots: Mix, Elements, and the Salsa Caribe.
- How to Get There: Subway Line 10 to Tuanjiehu Station.
- Entrance Fee: Free to enter the area, but club entrance fees range from ¥50 to ¥100 depending on the venue.
- Happy Hours: Most bars offer happy hours from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM with deals like ¥30 beers and cocktails.
Houhai Bar Street
- Description: Located around the scenic Houhai Lake, this area is more laid-back than Sanlitun. You’ll find a variety of lakefront bars with live music and outdoor seating.
- Popular Spots: No Name Bar, the Drum & Bell.
- How to Get There: Subway Line 8 to Shichahai Station.
- Entrance Fee: Free to walk around, bar prices vary.
- Happy Hours: Most bars have happy hour deals from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, offering discounted drinks starting from ¥25.
Gulou (Drum Tower) Area
- Description: A trendy area filled with hipster cafés, speakeasy-style bars, and indie music venues. It’s ideal for those looking for a more alternative vibe.
- Popular Spots: Modernista, Temple Bar.
- How to Get There: Subway Line 2 to Guloudajie Station.
- Entrance Fee: Free entry to most bars, with drinks starting from ¥40.
- Happy Hours: Happy hours typically run from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Wudaokou Student Nightlife
- Description: Known for its younger crowd, Wudaokou is the center of nightlife for university students and young professionals, offering affordable drinks and lively nightclubs.
- Popular Spots: Propaganda, La Bamba.
- How to Get There: Subway Line 13 to Wudaokou Station.
- Entrance Fee: Usually no cover charge; drinks are reasonably priced.
- Happy Hours: Many bars offer happy hours from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM, with drink specials starting at ¥20.
Beijing is a bustling city with historical treasures, modern infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scenes. From exploring iconic landmarks to enjoying the rich flavors of local cuisine and lively nightlife, there’s no shortage of things to do and discover in this capital city.