beijing popular tourist attractions

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, 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

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.

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

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 (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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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/

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

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.

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.

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.

More on China

20 Ultimate Things to Do in Beijing

Having served as the capital of China for more than 800 years, Beijing is best known for having the finest remnants of China's imperial past and being a China culture hub.

The most popular thing to do in Beijing is to visit the Forbidden City , the Great Walls , and other famous attractions, in addition, many experiences in Beijing are worth your time.

Our local experts have journeyed to every corner of the city and uncovered the most enjoyable and discovery-filled 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

The Great Wall of China extends 4,000 miles. Visiting the Great Wall is one of the top things to do in Beijing. There are several Great Wall sections around Beijing to choose from, both restored sections and rugged sections. Choose your way to enjoy a Great Wall trip.

• Take the cable car and enjoy an easy walk at Mutianyu . It is the most popular section among our customers and is perfect for ordinary travelers and children.
• Enjoy night views at the Simatai Great Wall, the only section open at night, with tasteful lighting allowing you a romantic or pleasantly different evening tour.
• If you are interested in hiking , the Jinshanling Great Wall is considered the best section. It's half restored and half-wild. It is also a good place for photography . >> Check more on Great Wall Hiking
• If you are an adventurous traveler, go to the awesome wild wall of Jiankou . It is the most precipitous section of the Great Wall, where you can enjoy some serious hiking.
• If you are a marathon runner , why not try it on the Great Wall? Every year a marathon race is held on the Great Wall, usually on the Huangyaguan or Jinshanling section.

Travel Tips: When you visit sections of the Great Wall with fewer tourists such as Simatai and Jinshanling , having a picnic seems a cool thing to do. There is the little option of restaurants near the Great Wall.

Touring with China Highlights, our tour guide will help prepare food and drinks and carry them for you to a perfect spot on the Great Wall.

Best times to visit the Great Wall : April to May, September to October

>>Check out more on Sections of the Great Wall in Beijing .

• 1-Day Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking Tour
• 1-Day Jiankou to Mutianyu Great Wall Hiking Tour

2. Discover Traditional Beijing Life

Recommended stay: 1–2 hours

The Beijing Hutongs are mazes of narrow alleyways linking old single-story traditional courtyard houses. Hutongs give a wonderful glimpse into the world of yesterday in Beijing.

Find your own way to discover more of your interesting things to do in the Hutongs with China Highlights . We can provide you with an authentic and customized Hutong experience.

• Your kids can be like Chinese children living in a hutong as they experience how they study and play and taste the snacks they love. Learn something about Chinese calligraphy. Try to write some simple characters with a brush. Play with a Chinese yo-yo made of wood or bamboo in the courtyard.
• Take a rickshaw through the Hutongs and visit a hutong family living in a traditional quadrangle dwelling. It is an authentic way to discover traditional Beijing life.
• Or you can check out our Hutong walking routes to help you discover the most interesting hutong lanes. >> See our Beijing-Life Discovery Walk Tour
• Taste fine rice wine in a hidden Hutong. In a traditional Chinese alleyway, Nuoyan Rice Wine House offers a pleasant atmosphere where travelers can taste traditional rice wine.

Best time to go : each season has its good points.

>> Also to find our Things to Do in Beijing Hutong

3. Hunt Old Beijing Food

Recommended stay: 3 hours with walking

If you like delicious food, a food hunt is one of the particularly enjoyable things do to in Beijing. Beijing is famous for many character-filled foods such as fried dough rings, doornail pasties, sugarcoated haws, and 'rolling donkeys'.

You can taste these famous Beijing snacks in Nanluoguxiang , Ghost Street, and Wangfujing Snack Street . Some authentic snacks are tucked away in the Hutongs .

Touring with China Highlights , we select small restaurants loved by locals and restaurants with time-honored reputations, where you can admire traditional cooking skills, rather than a night market or a snack market full of tourists.

Your guide will walk with you and tell you the stories behind the food. >> Read more about The Top 5 Beijing Snack Streets

Best times to go: April to May, September to November

>>See our Beijing Foodie tour .

• 5-Day Beijing Family Tour
• 6-Day Beijing Winter Tour with Skiing in a 2022 Olympic Winter Games Venue

4. Feast on Peking Duck

Recommended stay: 2 hours

A saying that is often heard is: "There are two things you must do in Beijing: eat Beijing Roast Duck and see the Great Wall ."Beijing roast duck is the epitome of Beijing cuisine . The dish is mostly prized for its thin, crispy skin, with authentic versions of the dish serving mostly the skin and little meat.

Your Beijing trip is not complete if you have not enjoyed an authentic Beijing roast duck dinner in a time-honored brand restaurant. The famous roast duck chains of restaurants are Quanjude (全聚德) and Dadong (大董).

Best time to eat: it's great all year round!

>>Find out more about The Best 10 Roast Duck Restaurants in Beijing >>>

5. Discover the Forbidden City Like an Emperor

Recommended stay :4 hours with walking

No one should leave Beijing without visiting the Forbidden City. Walking through the Forbidden City is atop your buck list of things to do in Beijing. The Forbidden City is the best-preserved imperial palace in China and the largest ancient palatial structure in the world.

Travel with an experienced guide to avoid the crowds and explore the hidden treasures of the palace. Discover the history and culture behind it, spanning the emperors' personal lives, imperial examinations, and heaven worship.

China Highlights' tour guide will help you explore 12 carefully selected places in the Forbidden City, while group tours routinely visit only 6–8 spots briefly.

Travel Tips: Entrance tickets have only been available online. You can book tickets on the official website of the Palace Museum, but only in Chinese. You are suggested to book via a travel agency like China Highlights.

Best times to go: All year round is good, except for China's golden week (Oct 1–7), which is most crowded.

• 6-Day Beijing Chinese New Year Tour

6. Admire the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube in Beijing Olympic Park

Recommended stay: 1 hour

Beijing Olympic Park , also known as the Olympic Green , will host the 2022 Winter Olympics. The Bird's Nest is the world's largest (non-linear) steel structure and the most complex stadium ever constructed.

The Water Cube was built to a unique and inspired design, based on the way soap bubbles come together in a 12-or-14-sided cell structure.

Travel Tips: The best view of the Beijing Water Cube and Bird Nest can be seen in the evening. If you wish to take the best photos, make sure you go there at night.

7. Stroll in the Restored Summer Palace

The Summer Palace , also called Yiheyuan, is the best-preserved imperial garden in the world, and the largest of its kind still in existence in modern China.

The most notable sight in the summer palace is its 'long corridor', a decorative walkway that is 728 meters (796 yards) long with 548 columns. There are more than 14,000 colorful paintings on each beam in the corridor, which are bright and magnificent.

With us, you can walk along the long corridor and listen to tales described by the paintings. Relaxing on a boat on Kunming Lake is a highly recommended way to continue your tour.

Best time to go: April to October

8. Explore the Old Summer Palace

The Old Summer Palace was the resort for emperors in the Qing Dynasty. It was the grandest imperial garden until it was destroyed in 1860 by French and English troops. You will have a different experience when visiting the Old Summer Palace.

There used to be thousands of palaces, most of them made of wood. These were burned to the ground and now only European-style stone structures remain.

Travel Tips: The Summer Palace and the Old Summer Palace are 3 kilometers from each other. You can visit both in one day. They are two different gardens, but both are worthy of your time.

9. Discover the Temple of Heaven along with a Tai Chi Experience

The Temple of Heaven , the royal altar where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped heaven, is seen as the holiest of Beijing's imperial temples. It has been described as "a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design".

Temple of Heaven Park is a great place to see the locals doing their morning activities such as practicing tai chi. It is really one of the fun things to do in Beijing!

To give more people access to authentic tai chi and the underlying culture, our partnered professional tai chi master shave carefully designed a culture communication program for Westerners at the Temple of Heaven, where you can approach the locals and experience their quintessentially Chinese exercises .

Travel Tips: Qianmen Street is about a 20-minute walk from the Temple of Heaven. You can take some photos of the awe-inspiring architecture here to fill any Instagram in style

10. Attend a Flag Raising Ceremony on Tian'anmen Square

Tian'anmen Square is the world's largest famous square and can accommodate a million people. Like Times Square in New York and Red Square in Moscow, Tian'anmen Square is a must-visit place for travelers to Beijing.

Different from an ordinary visit to the square, we recommend attending a flag-raising ceremony, held every dawn on the famous Tian'anmen Square. The flag's guard of soldiers marches out at a slow and stately pace.

Everybody starts to sing when the Chinese national anthem plays. The short yet touching ceremony gives you an insight into the country and its people.

Travel Tips: The time for the flag-rising is determined according to the sunrise and sunset time in Beijing. The specific time is specially calculated by astronomers. You had better know the exact time of the rising flag in advance. Please contact us to check it.

Best time to go : July to August

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11. Hunt for Treasure in the National Museum of China

The National Museum of China is a merger of two museums: the Museum of the Chinese Revolution and the National Museum of Chinese History. It contains over 600 million historical and cultural items, many of which are rare and precious.

Travel with China Highlights , and your personal guide will help you trace China's history and present you with an easy-to-access outline of Chinese civilization's development. Have a clear idea of the history of China in just half an hour!

In the exhibition hall for ancient China, you could go on a treasure hunt prepared by your guide (particularly recommended for kids). Find the 10 celebrated objects described on the task list that unlock the "code" for their splendid dynasties.

Travel Tips: Photography is allowed inside. Personal items, tripods, and equipment may have to be left at the entryway.

Best time to go : great all year round

12. Enjoy an Evening Show in Beijing

Recommended duration: 1½ hours

It is one of the fun things to do in Beijing. Several evening shows in Beijing are recommended depending on your interests.

Beijing opera is regarded as a Chinese cultural treasure. The make-up, the face masks, the gorgeous costumes, the unique vocal style, and the demanding choreography make Beijing opera a high-class performance entertainment. The best place to enjoy Beijing opera is Li Yuan Theater.

Watching a Kung Fu show is an exciting way to spend a night. The Legend of Kung Fu Show is the best one. It is visually stunning with a fast-paced plot and impressive martial arts skills. Children might like it.

The acrobatic show in Chaoyang Theatre is another breathtaking display of agility and flexibility.

Travel Tips: You can book tickets on the official website of Theaters, but only in Chinese. You are suggested to book via a travel agency, like China Highlights , which can also provide a private transfer.

Best time to go : All year round they're great!

13. Cycle along the Central Axis of Beijing

Recommended duration: 1 day

Really one of the cool things to do in Beijing! Many important buildings are located on the central north-south axis. With the Forbidden City at the center, the central axis extends to the Bell and Drum Tower in the north and Yongdingmen in the south, with a straight-line distance of about 7.8 km (4.8 miles).

On this central axis, you will not only visit the historical sights, including Yongdingmen, the Temple of Heaven , Qianmen , the Forbidden City , and Jingshan Park , but you can also admire outstanding architectural patterns and the overall layout.

>> See more on the Best Beijing Cycling Routes

Best time to cycle: September and October

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14. Take a Cooking Class in a Courtyard

Recommended duration: 3 hours

If you want to make your tour more impressive, don't miss the chance to take a cooking class with a local family. Experiencing the local lifestyle will increase the joy of your tour.

Visit a local family living in a Hutong , learn to cook traditional Beijing dishes, and talk with the local people. We believe you can have a cool experience that you can't get simply from visiting architectural structures.

Best time to cook: recommended all year round

15. Enjoy Nightlife in Sanlitun

Recommended stay: 2–3 hours

It is really safe at night in Beijing. Sanlitun is the best place where Beijing people usually walk for fun . It is also the most popular place for foreigners and young Chinese people, as it is lined with countless clubs, bars, and shopping malls.

You can relax by dancing in a party bar or finding a quiet bar where you can have a cocktail and listen to music.

>>Find out more on Things to Do at Night in Beijing

16. Discover Beijing's Time-Honored Brands

Recommended duration: 3 hours including walking

Beijing, the capital of seven dynasties, was for centuries the center of politics, the economy, and culture in medieval China. The time-honored brands of Beijing witnessed the glory days of the city. They bear the marks of the history, culture, and folk customs of Beijing.

There are three famous places in Beijing that have time-honored-brand shops :

Liulichang Street , Dashila'r Street, and Qianmen Avenue . A visit will enrich your understanding of China's literature and art, traditional Chinese medicine, clothing, and food.

>>Find out more Things to Do to Seek Out Old Beijing

• 4-Day Beijing Private Tour to Visit the Great Wall at Night

17. Shop for the Best Souvenir Deals in Local Markets

Recommended duration: as long as you like

Shopping is one of the foreign nationals' favorite things to do in Beijing. Beijing's outdoor markets sell a great variety of souvenirs and old arts and crafts. They are living museums of folk artwork, old articles for daily use, and antiques (though some of them are fake).

Panjiayuan Antique Market is the largest antique market in China, which is known for local specialties. The best souvenirs to bring back home are cloisonné, ivory carvings, jade pieces, lacquer carvings, antiques, and freshwater pearls.

Xiushui Street , also called Silk Market, is one of the major commercial streets in Beijing. You can find a variety of goods, such as clothes, bags, and suitcases, shoes and hats, pearls, and decorations.

Liulichang Street , there are many famous old stores at Liulichang selling books and ink, paper, and inkstones, including Huaiyinshan House, the Old Art House, Ruicheng House, Cuiwen Garret, Yide Garret, LiFishou Pen Store, as well as China Book Store —the largest old book store in China.

Best time to shop: all year round if fine

>> You may also be interested in knowing about The Best Souvenirs and Places to Shop or the Top 10 Shopping Areas in Beijing .

18. Relax in Romantic Landiao Lavender Garden

Recommended stay: half a day

One of the romantic things to do in Beijing! Landiao Lavender Gardens is known as a 'blues dreamland' in Beijing. It is in Chaoyang District, near many of Beijing's main attractions, and is one of the most romantic gardens in Beijing, covering twenty hectares (49 acres) with hot springs, a wedding hall, and a lavender farm.

The manor was designed by a French architect and the buildings have completely inherited the style of French farms. It would be a romantic experience to walk in the garden with your lover.

You will find many newly-married couples there taking wedding photos, and you may come across a wedding ceremony there.

Best time to go: July and August

• One Day Beijing Highlights Private Tour

19. Go Skiing at Nanshan Skiing Resort

Recommended stay: 1 day

"Skiing is one of the best things to do in winter," some would say. Beijing has become a popular place for skiing enthusiasts, due to the number of high-quality ski resorts in the area, especially after Beijing was selected to host the 2022 Winter Olympics.

Nanshan Ski Resort is one of the best skiing resorts in Beijing and also the largest ski resort of its kind in northern China.

It is located in Miyun County, only 1½ hours' drive from Beijing. It is family-friendly with a mini-park containing a kids' ski learning area and practice trail plus a children's playground. It is good for advanced skiers and beginners.

Best time to go: December, January

>> You may be also interested in knowing about other skiing resorts in Beijing .

20. Celebrate a Chinese New Year the Beijing Way

Recommended stay : 1 day

Chinese New Year, also called the Spring Festival , is the biggest holiday of the year in Beijing, which falls in January or February . Join in a local family for a Chinese New Year would be one of the greatest things to do in Beijing if your travel time is right during the Spring Festival period.

Most Beijing residents will make a traditional New Year's Eve family dinner . Touring with China Highlights we will enable you to experience this special date with a Beijing family.

Join your host family to prepare for the coming of the New Year. Learn how to write Chinese lucky phrases in Chinese calligraphy and join in preparations for the New Year's Eve dinner by making dumplings.

>> Read more about How Beijingers Celebrate Chinese New Year

Best time to go: Chinese Spring Festival (1st February 2022)

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. what are things to do in beijing during winter.

Wall section, at the Badaling Ski Resort and at the Forbidden City where you especially admire the beautiful snowy landscapes at the Meridian Gate Square and the Southeast Corner Tower out from Donghuamen (东华门).

See The Best Places to Enjoy Snow in Beijing.

2. What are romantic things to do in Beijing?

Take a boat on Shichahai Lake and enjoy the rich cultural landscapes and folklife on both sides.

Stroll around in the 798 Art District , a place where celebrities of art and culture in fashion gather.

Taste Red Wine at Chateau Changyu AFIP Global, the picturesque style of the castle makes you feel as if you have entered a fairyland.

Celebrate a Chinese Valentine's Day if you are traveling to Beijing in August. Also called Double Seventh Festival , it falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month Festival.

3. What are unusual things to do in Beijing?

Study the Universities

Stroll around Beijing's Best Art Galleries

Great Wall Marathon at Huangyaguan

Great Wall Camping at Huanghuacheng

4. When is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best times to visit Beijing are spring (April, May) and fall (September, October) when the weather is most pleasant, and the views are most spectacular, on average. >> Read more about the Best time to visit Beijing

You Might Like to Read

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Now you should know what things to do in Beijing. Traveling with a local expert opens up so many more possibilities than trying to figure it out for yourself.

Tell us your interests, and one of our specialists will help you to maximize your travel experience by suggesting the optimal trip for the time you have and the things you love to do.

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Top 15 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

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Our Guests Visiting Beijing Great Wall

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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 and How to Book Forbidden City (Palace Museum) Tickets from Official Website 2024

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.

Generally speaking, Mutianyu is the best option if you travel with kids, or want to enjoy a leisure and scenic hike. If you are a hiker, choose 1 or 2 sections among Jinshanling, Simatai and Gubekou to hike 1 or 2 days. If you are the second-timer, maybe Huanghuacheng section will be very attractive to you. Its lakeside walls are very stunning. Read more about What Are the Best Sections of the Great Wall to Visit from Beijing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

No.13: Universal Studios Beijing

Type: Amusement Parks, Resorts

Recommended Length of Visit: 1-2 days

Universal Studios Beijing, the fifth Universal Studios theme park in the world and the second world-class amusement park in inland China after Shanghai Disneyland, has recently become a must-hit destination for Chinese and foreign tourists visiting Beijing. Featuring themes from Hollywood blockbusters, each zone unlocks a new world for adventurers filled with joy, magic, sci-fi, excitement, and awe. More about Universal Studios Beijing

No.14: 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

No.15: 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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16 Best Things To Do in Beijing

Updated February 11, 2021

The close proximity of Beijing's top attractions makes touring this massive city very manageable. First, your impulse will be to head to Tiananmen Square , which hosts the Forbidden City , the National Museum of China  and several other monuments. From

• All Things To Do

The Great Wall of China The Great Wall of China

Just north of Beijing, you'll find one of the most famous monuments in the world: the Great Wall of China. Although it's unlikely you'll see the whole thing, you should aim to experience a portion of it. That begs the question: Which section?

Only an hour's drive northwest of Beijing, the Badaling section is convenient, hosts a large souvenir market, and has a gondola to whisk visitors up and down the wall. Sounds perfect, right? Well, and that's why thousands of tourists decide to venture here. This can create mob-like scenes that can spoil the trip, but it's unpredictable. Plenty of visitors rave about this section of the wall and say a visit is a must. Entrance to the Badaling section of wall (not including the gondola ride) costs 40 yuan (about $6) in the winter and spring and 45 yuan (about $6.60 ) in the summer and fall. You can start hiking the Badaling portion at 6:40 a.m., and you must be down by 6:30 p.m. every day.

Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)

When the bustle of Beijing becomes too much for you, do as the emperors would do and retreat to the Summer Palace. Located in the northwest suburbs, this oasis – literally, an oasis with serene Kunming Lake – is home to several attractions. Nearly every gate, pavilion, hall and tower has a unique history and merits a photo. Despite the palace's historic appeal, most tourists are charmed by what's outside: The Summer Palace possesses the largest imperial garden in China. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge stretches into Kunming Lake, providing excellent views of the east bank and South Lake Island. And at an impressive 2,388 feet in length, the Long Corridor garners lots of attention.

Travelers are rarely disappointed by the wonders of the Summer Palace. Many advise visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, but regardless, most call the palace amazing. Reviewers suggested setting aside at least half a day to wander the grounds. Visitors also recommended seeing the site with the help of a guide, who can help you understand its vast history.  

Forbidden City (Imperial Palace) Forbidden City (Imperial Palace)

Operating under the official title of "The Palace Museum," the Forbidden City (also known as the Imperial Palace) has been a place of wonder and mystery for more than 500 years. This massive complex sits on the northern edge of Tiananmen Square at the epicenter of Beijing. Beyond its towering fortifications, you'll find an intricate labyrinth of squares, halls, gates, pavilions, sleeping quarters and temples. In some of the structures, curated art and historic relics have been placed; however, the greatest achievement is the compound itself. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the Meridian Gate, the Turret, the Antiquarium and the Imperial Garden.

Recent visitors, who called the park fascinating, suggest giving yourself plenty of time to tour and buying tickets in advance if you can. Others were disappointed by the sheer volume of tourists and recommend avoiding a weekend visit if possible. You'll also want to wear a hat and sunscreen as there is little shade. Several reviewers also suggested hiring a guide to help you navigate the site and better understand its history, or at the very least, purchasing a map which doubles as a souvenir. Audio guide rentals are another option.

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Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan) Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan)

After the concrete jungles of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City , head to nearby Beihai Park for a breath of fresh air. Whether you're under a tree overlooking the lake or in an ancient pagoda, you'll see why this former imperial garden has been a preserved sanctuary since its creation in A.D. 1166. Over time, the park has acquired more and more monuments. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the Temple of Everlasting Peace, White Dagoba and the Circular City.

Visitors love its peaceful setting, saying even with lots of people around, you can still find a quiet place to reflect. Some reviewers recommend riding a boat on the lake to reach different attractions, while others suggest setting aside several hours to walk its grounds (it is massive, spanning more than 170 acres).

Nanluoguxiang Nanluoguxiang free

North of the Forbidden City , this neighborhood packs so much character into its narrow streets (hutongs). Nanlouguxiang continually surprises you with exciting discoveries in boutique shops and tantalizing flavors from unassuming vendors. When you need a shopping break, visit the Bell and Drum Towers that also reside here. While this bohemian district has witnessed an increase in tourist volume, it has avoided the commercialization and urban renovations that characterize other Beijing areas.

Many visitors appreciate the blend of new and old and enjoy spending time browsing around. Reviewers said this is a great place to browse for souvenirs.

Tiananmen Square Tiananmen Square free

Up there with Times Square , Red Square and St. Peter's Square , Tiananmen Square is among the world's most famous public spaces. Almost anyone can recognize the Gate of Heavenly Peace emblazoned with a portrait of Chairman Mao as a symbol of Beijing. The square is the geographic, political and tourist center of the city, which makes it unavoidable. Although Tiananmen Square looks like a field of concrete (which it is), you'll want to see it for the surrounding attractions: The Great Hall of the People, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, the National Museum of China and the Forbidden City sit on the edges.

Recent visitors warned the area is usually crowded, with lots of guards, which some found disconcerting. Nonetheless, most visitors said it's a must-see landmark. Plus, taking a picture here is almost required to prove you've been to Beijing.

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Dashanzi Art District and 798 Space Dashanzi Art District and 798 Space free

Fact: The arts are booming in Beijing. You only need to tour the Dashanzi Art District to witness this creative surge. The epicenter of this artistic explosion is 798 Space (also known as Factory 798), an old electronics manufacturing site and warehouse. Originally designed by East Germans in the 1950s, the stern architecture beautifully juxtaposes the richly colorful contents of artist studios. The 2-million-square-foot venue boasts galleries, eateries and bars, making it a one-stop-shop for hip locals and curious tourists.

Recent visitors said the neighborhood appeals to nearly everyone because of the diverse offerings found here and recommend giving yourself plenty of time to simply wander around. Reviewers said you'll want to take a bevy of pictures thanks to the colorful atmosphere. Many others suggested purchasing souvenirs here as the offerings are quite unique. If you're an art lover, heed the advice of past travelers and plan to make multiple visits.

National Centre for the Performing Arts National Centre for the Performing Arts

Sometimes called the "Giant Egg" due to its unique shape, the National Centre for the Performing Arts is actually home to three different venues: the Opera House, the Concert Hall and the Theatre. Everything from ballets to dramas are staged here. The unusual property also has an artificial lake and lots of green space surrounding, it making it a magnet for locals and visitors alike. The exterior of the building is a unique titanium glass oval shell and all the passages and entrances into it are built underwater, which lends a surreal aspect as you enter.

Recent visitors were wowed by the architecture and highly recommend checking it out. It's free to wander outside, but there is a small fee to enter the building. English language tours are also offered for a fee.

4-Hour Small Group Tour to Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City

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from $ 58.88

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Lama Temple (Yonghegong) Lama Temple (Yonghegong)

You'll immediately notice the rigid symmetry of the complex, which derives from the imperial architectural style. As the seat of Tibetan Buddhism in Beijing, you'll see this temple of prayer is still used by religious followers, so be respectful. Throughout its halls, you'll see Buddha temples, statues, murals and carvings.

The humble grandeur of the Lama Temple and its accompanying buildings impresses many visitors, who find the temple a pleasant surprise in the bustling city. Meanwhile, others delighted in the peaceful, incense-filled air.

National Museum of China National Museum of China free

For a survey of Chinese history, head to the National Museum of China. Positioned on the eastern edge of Tiananmen Square , the exhibits in this museum neatly outline the nation's past for visitors, both native and foreign. After a massive renovation, the facility reopened in the spring of 2011 with updated displays and an interior facelift. Among the many treasures (more than one million), you'll find entire rooms dedicated to jade, porcelain and bronze artifacts.

When looking at the collection, travelers are generally impressed, with many saying you need at least two to three hours to even begin to see all the treasures it holds. Visitors also appreciate it is free to visit. If you plan to visit, keep these tips from reviewers in mind: stop by the museum at the start of your trip to Beijing to better understand the city and Chinese culture overall; the museum is better suited to visitors interested in history and archaeology than art; English translation is lacking in certain areas.

Bell and Drum Towers (Hutong) Bell and Drum Towers (Hutong)

Once used as musical instruments and later as the official government time piece, the Bell and Drum Towers crown the charming Nanluoguxiang district. Amid the maze of alleys, you'll appreciate having these two historical pillars to guide your exploration of the neighborhood. You'll immediately notice the 150-foot Drum Tower from its vibrant red walls, turquoise roof and decorative symbols. The Bell Tower is the more subdued gray sister, standing nearby. These ancient landmarks (the original structures date back to 1272) offer exceptional views of Beijing, but you'll have to take a hike to reach their peaks. Most visitors agree climbing the steep stairs is worth it for the views.

If you wish to climb the stairs, you'll have to fork over 15 yuan (about $2) for the Bell Tower and 20 yuan (about $3) for the Drum Tower or 30 yuan ($4.40) for both. The towers open daily around 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. every day. The closest subway stop is Guloudajie on lines 2 and 8.

Olympic Park Olympic Park free

Deemed China's coming-out party, the 2008 Summer Olympics placed Beijing in the world spotlight. Beijing carved out huge tracts of land to construct this international stage. The excitement has since passed, and the park and some of its facilities have been repurposed for public use. The surviving structures include the National Stadium (or the "Bird's Nest"), the National Aquatics Center (or the "Water Cube") and the Olympic Forest Park. New buildings, like the China National Convention Center, have changed the park's landscape.

The majority of past travelers still enjoyed making the pilgrimage to Olympic Park and recent visitors expressed their amazement at its architecture, especially at night when some of the structures are illuminated. During the day, you'll frequently find locals flying kites. However, some reviewers were underwhelmed with the complex and advise against making a special trip to see it.

Temple of Heaven Park (Tiatan Park) Temple of Heaven Park (Tiatan Park)

To reach the Temple of Heaven, you don't have to have an untimely passing. Just get off the subway at Tiantan Dongmen. As you'd expect, this green space is a peaceful asylum, immune to the urban bustle. In the Confucian spirit, the park offers respite among ancient cypress trees alongside remarkable structures. You shouldn't miss the Zhaoheng Gate, the Animal Killing Pavilion (no longer functioning as such) and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.

Travelers are regularly floored by the beauty (and people-watching) in the park and say it's a highlight of any visit. Others were relieved to find the site wasn't as crowded as the Forbidden City . As with many of the other top sights in Beijing, travelers recommend you hire a guide to get the most out of your visit. Though there is an audio guide available for rent, some visitors were disappointed with its breadth.  

Forbidden City Admission Tickets Tiananmen square Pre-Booking

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Ritan Park Ritan Park free

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Panjiayuan Antique Market Panjiayuan Antique Market free

Ming Tombs Ming Tombs

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Must-see attractions in Beijing

Forbidden City

Forbidden City & Dongcheng Central

Enclosed by 3.5km of citadel walls at the very heart of Beijing, the Unesco-listed Forbidden City is China’s largest and best-preserved collection of…

Temple of Heaven Park

Temple of Heaven Park & Dongcheng South

An oasis of methodical Confucian design, the 267-hectare Temple of Heaven Park is unique. It originally served as a vast stage for solemn rites performed…

Summer Palace

A marvel of Chinese garden design and one of Beijing's must-see attractions, the Summer Palace was the royal retreat for emperors fleeing the suffocating…

Tian'anmen Square

Flanked by triumphalist Soviet-style buildings, Tian'anmen Sq is an immense void of paved stone (440,000 sq metres, to be precise) at the symbolic centre…

Beihai Park

Beihai Park, inside the old Imperial City, looks much as it would have done in the 18th century when it served as Emperor Qianlong's private gardens. The…

Southeast Corner Watchtower

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…

Gate of Heavenly Peace

Instantly recognisable by its giant framed portrait of Mao, and guarded by two pairs of Ming dynasty stone lions, the double-eaved Gate of Heavenly Peace …

798 Art District

Contemporary art meets communist history at this thrilling enclave of international galleries installed within China's model factory complex of the 1950s…

Lama Temple

Converted from a princely residence to a lamasery in the 18th century, the Lama Temple extends through a crescendo of ever more divine halls in a whirl of…

Chairman Mao Memorial Hall

One of Beijing's more surreal spectacles is the sight of Mao Zedong's embalmed corpse on public display within his mausoleum. The Soviet-inspired memorial…

Venerable bastions of time-keeping, the Drum Tower and its counterpart the Bell Tower were for centuries the tallest buildings in Beijing, lording it over…

Zhihua Temple

Lost in a tumbledown hutong neighbourhood, this Buddhist temple is one of Beijing's best-preserved Ming dynasty structures. It was built in 1444 to honour…

Jingshan Park

Beijing's finest park is also one of the only hills in the inner city, a mound that was created from the loess (sediment) excavated to make the Forbidden…

Azure Clouds Temple

Though it dates back to the Yuan dynasty, this enchanting Buddhist temple complex was enlarged to its current splendor by Emperor Qianlong in 1748, adding…

Wuta Temple

If any Beijing sight can vanquish the dreaded 'temple fatigue', it's Wuta Si. This little-known gem is eminently worthy of a pilgrimage, not just for its…

Workers' Cultural Palace

One of Beijing's best-kept secrets – despite being next to the Gate of Heavenly Peace – the Workers' Cultural Palace was gifted to the masses by Mao in…

White Dagoba Temple

Originally built in 1271 under the reign of Kublai Khan, the serene Miaoying Temple slumbers beneath its astonishing high dagoba, the tallest in China. A…

A highlight of a visit to the Ming Tombs is to walk the Shen Dao, or Spirit Way, a funerary avenue that plots a sombre course to Cháng Líng, the earliest…

Remodelled in 2019, UCCA remains the finest contemporary-art gallery in 798, and a contender for the best in the country. Many global art superstars have…

Houhai Lake Scenic Area

A grand sweep of willow-lined waterways enclosed by invitingly maze-like hutong lanes, this trio of lakes is one of Beijing's best-loved outdoor spots,…

Ancient Observatory

Astronomers have been studying the mysteries of the cosmos here since 1442. Crowning the 18m-high brick tower – an earlier version of which would have…

Established according to feng shui in the cradle of Tianshou Mountain (天寿山, Tiānshòu Shān), this auspicious swath of nature was walled off by the Ming to…

Fragrant Hills Park

A great swath of Beijing's Western Hills (Xīshān) was once an imperial pleasure resort, acres of undulating pine-cypress forest peppered with temples,…

Treasure Gallery

In the northeastern corner of the complex is the Treasure Gallery (or Complete Palace of Peace and Longevity, 宁寿全宫, Níng Shǒu Quán Gōng), a…

Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

The crowning glory of the Temple of Heaven is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, its triple-eaved roof canopy of glazed blue tiles reflecting its…

Round Altar

The present build dating to around 1540, this is the business end of the Temple of Heaven. Here on this open-air, raised platform (a circle within a…

Poly Art Museum

A thrilling discovery, this exquisite collection of treasures is hidden halfway up an office building! China's state-owned Poly Group has funnelled a…

Confucius Temple & Imperial College

An incense stick’s toss away from the Lama Temple, China’s second-largest Confucian temple is a haven of scholarly calm and contemplation. Come to wander…

Long Corridor

Stretching for 728m along the north shore of Kunming Lake, the open-air Long Corridor is one of the premier sights of the Summer Palace. One can imagine…

Hall of Central Harmony

Behind the Hall of Supreme Harmony is the Hall of Central Harmony, which was used as the emperor’s transit lounge. Here he would make last-minute…

Imperial Vault of Heaven

Inside the Echo Wall, this ornate building was merely a storeroom, used to keep the spirit tablets of the gods and other materials used for the ceremonies…

It's no coincidence that the most magnificent of the Ming tombs bears more than a passing resemblance to the Forbidden City. It was commissioned by the…

Hall of Supreme Harmony

One of the Three Great Halls, this is the most important and largest structure in the Forbidden City. Built in the 15th century and restored in the 17th…

Gallery of Clocks

The Gallery of Clocks is one of the unmissable highlights of the Forbidden City. Relocated from the Hall for Ancestral Worship in 2018 (in order that the…

Sacrificial Hall

The main attraction within the Workers' Cultural Palace is the monumental Sacrificial Hall, as exquisite as any temple you'll find in Beijing. Built in…

Divine Merit Stele Pavilion

Along the Spirit Way before you reach the pairs of stone guardians, this glorious pavilion contains a stele thought to be the largest in China, mounted on…

17-Arch Bridge

Connecting the eastern shore of Kunming Lake to South Lake Island, this is the largest bridge in the Summer Palace at 150m long. It was built during the…

White Dagoba

Topping Jade Islet (琼岛; Qióngdǎo), the 36m-high Tibetan-style White Dagoba was built in 1651 by the first Qing emperor to honour a visit by the Dalai Lama…

Faurschou Foundation

Although this privately owned Danish gallery is a relative newcomer, it has racked up an enviable showreel of exhibitions and retrospectives since 2011,…

Nine Dragon Screen

To the west of Western Elysium, set back from the lakeshore, is this 5m-high, 27m-long spirit wall emblazoned with writing and coiled dragons, picked out…

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16 Must-Visit Attractions in Beijing

Travel Expert

China’s bustling capital of 21.5 million people is constantly contradicting itself. Ancient and modern, busy and serene, grey and green. You may get lost and you may get tired during a sightseeing trip to Beijing, but you will certainly not get bored.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Beijing, China’s enigmatic capital city, is packed to bursting with world-class attractions, be they historic palaces , beautiful royal gardens, solemn temples, bustling markets or modern art enclaves. Here, we recommend the top 15 things to do and see in Beijing, from traditional tourist favourites to quirky alternative sights.

1. The Great Wall

Architectural Landmark

One of the most instantly recognisable landmarks in the world, the Great Wall is believed to have been built as early as the seventh century BC, although the majority of the existing wall was constructed during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The most famous part was built by Qin Shi Huang (the first emperor of the Qin dynasty) from 220 to 206 BC. The whole wall is 21,196 kilometres (13,171 miles) long and covers the ancient northern borders of China. It was built to protect the country against invasions from the northern nomadic groups of the Eurasian Steppe. The most popular sections to visit include Badaling, Jiayu Pass and Shanhai Pass, but if you want more excitement, the rugged and breathtaking Simatai section of the wall is definitely the one to head for.

2. Panjiayuan Antique Market

3. 798 art district.

Art Gallery, Building, Museum, Store

Saturated with local and international galleries, arts centres and countless cool restaurants, shops and bars, 798 Art Zone is arguably China’s most famous contemporary art district. It began life as a sprawling factory complex that made military equipment and components for the Communist cause. Most of the original buildings remain, giving this modern cultural zone – one of Beijing’s trendiest areas – a distinctly dystopian edge.

4. Yiheyuan (Summer Palace)

Historical Landmark

5. The Hutongs

An afternoon wandering around the hutongs (narrow alleys that snake between historic courtyard housing complexes) is the best way to appreciate the beauty of old Beijing. Hutongs once dominated Beijing, but owing to aggressive urban development initiatives most have been removed. A good handful still remain around Houhai Lake and Gulou Dajie (Drum Tower Street). An afternoon would be well spent walking or cycling through the unique collection of cafes, restaurants and shops, especially around the kooky Nanluoguxiang shopping street. Be sure to stop and appreciate the ancient drum and bell towers, Gulou and Zhonglou.

6. The Forbidden City and Palace Museum

Without doubt Beijing’s most famous attraction, the Forbidden City – which presides over the notorious Tiananmen Square – is a sprawling palace complex that was home to the emperors of China’s Ming and Qing dynasties until imperialism was abolished in 1912. The great palace, dating back to 1406, exemplifies traditional Chinese architectural styles. Some of the palatial buildings now serve as the Palace Museum, which is worth ducking into to browse more than 1 million valuable Chinese art pieces, such as paintings, ceramics, jewellery and jade. Be sure to bring your passport when you visit as foreigners won’t get in without one.

7. Wangfujing Snack Street

Market, Chinese

8. Tian Tan (Temple of Heaven)

Park, Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Constructed between 1406 and 1420, Tian Tan , otherwise known as the Temple of Heaven, is a complex of impressive palatial temples where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties once prayed for a good harvest. The grand and solemn buildings that make up the complex – namely the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar – can all be toured, giving visitors an insight into the ancient religious ceremonies of Daoism. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, commissioned by the same emperor responsible for Beijing’s Forbidden City, is bursting with colourful and symbolic imagery. Go check it out. Your camera will thank you.

9. Red Gate Gallery

Art Gallery

10. Dine in Quan Ju De

Restaurant, Chinese

Established in 1864, Quan Ju De has a reputation for serving the best peking roast duck in China. It monitors the breeding method of the ducks very closely and adheres to traditional cooking processes to guarantee quality and taste – only using ducks which are fewer than 100 days old and weigh more than five kilograms (11 pounds). The ducks are roasted as they have been for decades in a big doorless oven fuelled by the wood of fruit trees, turning out impeccably caramelised and crisp – those with superior palates may be able to taste a subtle fruity flavour in the meat.

11. Yonghe (Lama) Temple

Buddhist Temple, Monastery

12. Houhai Lake

Natural Feature

Part of a complex of the three northernmost ornamental lakes in Beijing known as Schichahai, Houhai was built for the pleasures of the royal Yuan family (1271-1368). Today, it is buzzing with activity from early morning to midnight, with street-side haircuts, cheap pencil portraits, al-fresco jam sessions and electric boat rides offered during the day, evolving into loud karaoke bars, fragrant street snacks and neon headgear at night. The streets around the adjoining Qianhai Lake get particularly packed on evenings and weekends, so approach with caution if you’re not a fan of crowds. Explore the majestic Gulou (drum tower) and Zhonglou (bell tower), just a few steps east, while you’re in the neighbourhood.

13. Jingshan Park

Situated at the geographical centre of Beijing, Jingshan Park served as a royal garden and hunting ground during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, complete with fruit trees, pretty pavilions and ornate palaces. It was opened to the public in 1928, providing 57 acres (23 hectares) of landscaped gardens and traditional Chinese architecture, but its unrivalled views are the real reason to visit. Take the short climb up Jingshan Hill and find yourself at the highest point in otherwise flat Beijing, a unique vantage point which looks out over the north gate of the Forbidden City.

14. Parkview Green

Shopping Mall

Parkview Green is a Chinese mall like no other. The winner of multiple green architecture awards, this forward-thinking lifestyle complex sits beside historic Ritan Park and Beijing’s tree-lined diplomatic zone, and it’s packed with shopping, dining and contemporary art. Peruse boutiques and look for touchable sculptures in between exploring the art gallery, art museum and in-mall interactive offerings. Those who really can’t get enough should consider staying at the super-chic on-site boutique art hotel.

15. Hongqiao (Pearl Market)

16. tiananmen square.

Park, Building

Tiananmen Square is located right beside the Forbidden City, known for its incredible political significance. This huge space is home to the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, which houses the former leader’s embalmed body in its crystal coffin. Admission is free (though bear in mind no bags or cameras are permitted inside), but long queues form very quickly each day, so aim to get there early. Recommended by Taylor J. Castelo Brancochang

This article is an updated version of a story created by Katherine Lee.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Beijing: The Top 20 Must-See Attractions & Things To Do

What are the must-see attractions in Beijing? You’ve probably seen my mega-list of attractions in the ancient capital, and I can’t blame you if you’re in a flat spin trying to work out the best sites to visit in Beijing because there are so many! So, here are the top 20 must-see attractions on a trip to Beijing.

In the list, I have included open hours, the Chinese name for the taxi, ticket costs, and roughly how long you may spend at each one, and a map. Enjoy!

Beijing Attractions Map

Dongcheng Qu, China

Beijing, Pinggu, Xia Yu Lu, 山东庄镇鱼子山村京东大峡谷

Xicheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100006

Beijing, Haidian, 买卖街40号香山公园 Fragrant Hills Park （East Gate 2）

Chaoyang Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100096

Chaoyang Qu, Beijing Shi, China

ShiChaHai, Xicheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100009

北京市东城区钟楼湾临字9号

Dongcheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100009

Xicheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China

Dongcheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China

DongDan, Dongcheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100006

Dongcheng Qu, China, 100007

Dongcheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100007

Changping Qu, China

Haidian Qu, China

Haidian Qu, China, 100000

MiyunNo. 18 Dongdui Main Street, Gubeikou Village, Gubeikou Town, Miyun 邮政编码: 100000

Beijing, China

Changping Qu, Beijing Shi, China

Beijing, Miyun, Sishui Rd, 古北口镇司马台村北 Simatai Great Wall Tourist Area

Luanping Xian, Chengde Shi, Hebei Sheng, China

Dongcheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100006

The Top 20 Attractions and Things to Do in Beijing

Forbidden city.

The Forbidden City , aka Palace Museum, is the no.1 highlight of Beijing, step into the past and the inner sanctuary of ancient Chinese emperors. Jingshan Park and/or Beihai Park are the perfect goto places after leaving.

Time to Spend: 2-4 hours Ticket:  April to October: 60 RMB November to March: 40 RMB Chinese Name:   Palace Museum 故宫博物院   Hours:  April to October – 8:30-17:00 November to March – 8:30-16:30

Great Wall in Beijing

Within one to two hours travel from downtown Beijing you can find numerous different sections of the Great Wall to visit inc.  Badaling (the most popular and best restored), Mutianyu, Juyonguan, Jinshanling, Simatai, Jiankou, and Gubeikou.

Time to Spend: 4 hours (not inc travel time) Ticket:  Badaling – Apr. 1 to Oct.31: 40 RMB; Nov.1 to Mar.31: 35 RMB Chinese Name:   Badaling section 八达岭   Hours: Apr. 1 to Oct.31: 06:30-19:00; Nov.1 to Mar.31: 07:00-18:00

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace was the retreat for ancient emperors, spread over a large area with a lake, and numerous stunning buildings, it’s a must-visit. Also, don’t miss the nearby Old Summer Palace, aka Yuanmingyuan.

Time to Spend: 4 hours plus  Ticket: Combo Ticket (all access) Apr to Oct – 60 RMB Nov to Mar – 50 RMB Chinese Name:   Yuanmingyuan 颐和园   Hours: Apr. 1 to Oct.31: 06:30 – 18:00; Nov.1 to Mar.31: 07:00 – 17:00

Tiananmen Square

Including Tiananmen Tower (above Tiananmen Gate, entry: 15 RMB),  Great Hall of the People (entry 30 RMB),  Memorial Hall of Chairman Mao (Free),  Monument to the People’s Heroes (Free), and National Museum (Free). A popular event is the ceremonial flag raising held every morning, and it’s lowering every night.

Time to Spend: 2 hours Ticket:  Tiananmen Square – Free. Chinese Name:   Tian’anmen Guangchang 天安门广场   Hours: see here for the flag raising and lowering times.

Ming Tombs includes the Sacred Way, Dingling Tomb, Changling Tomb, and Zhaoling Tomb.

Time to Spend: 2 hours (not inc travel time) Ticket: Combo Ticket  – Apr. 1 to Oct.31: 130 RMB; Nov.1 to Mar.31: 100 RMB Chinese Name:   Míng Shísān 明十三陵   Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 (may close a little earlier Nov to Mar)

Temple of Confucius

Beautiful traditional architecture at a site that dates back to the Yuan Dynasty.

Time to Spend: one hour  Ticket:   30 RMB Chinese Name: Kǒngmiào 孔庙   Hours: May to Oct: 08:30 – 18:00; Nov to Apr: 08:30 – 17:00

Temple of Heaven

A great place to visit early as elderly locals will gather for socializing, it’s a great insight into local culture. The site itself includes gardens and numerous ceremonial buildings at a very important site that dates back to the Ming Dynasty.

Time to Spend: 2 hours  Ticket: Combo Ticket  – Apr to Oct: 34 RMB; Nov to Mar: 28 RMB Chinese Name:   Tiāntán 天坛   Hours: Apr to Oct: 08:00 – 17:30; Nov to Mar: 08:00 – 17:00

Yonghe Temple

Also known as the Lama Temple, it is a functioning monastery for Tibetan Buddhism that dates back to 1694.

Time to Spend: 2 hours  Ticket:  25 RMB Chinese Name:   Yōnghé gōng 雍和宫   Hours: Apr. 1 to Oct.31: 9:00 to 16:30; Nov.1 to Mar.31: 9:00 to 16:00

Hutongs & Courtyards

Hutongs (胡同), are the often narrow traditional laneways that date back to the Yuan Dynasty and provide an insight into the everyday life, culture, and architecture. Courtyards are like private squares where families would gather and enjoy privacy and time together among the garden open space, you’ll see many as you stroll the Hutongs. Popular ones include Nanluogu Xiang, Skewed Tobacco Pouch Street, Mao’er Hutong, Guozijian Street, Liulichang Cultural Street, Jinyu Hutong, Dongjiaomin Lane, Xijiaomin Lane, Ju’er Hutong, and Bada Hutong which is a cluster of eight Hutongs. More about Hutong tours .

Bell & Drum Towers

The bell rang in the morning and the drum at dusk, it was the way of telling the time right up until the last emperor left the forbidden city. You can catch a drum performance at 09:30, 10:00, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:45

Time to Spend: one hour  Ticket: Combo ticket: 30 RMB Chinese Name:   钟鼓楼文化广场   Hours: 09:00 to 17:00

Prince Gong’s Mansion

Also referred to as Prince Kung’s Mansion, the area dates back to the Qing Dynasty and served as a home to a prince. Beautiful traditional gardens and architecture await.

Time to Spend: 2 hours  Ticket: 40 RMB Chinese Name:   恭王府   Hours: Apr. 1 to Oct.31:8:00 – 17:00; Nov.1 to Mar.31:9:00 – 16:00

This refers to a large scenic area whose highlights are Prince Gong’s Mansion, numerous Hutongs, such as Skewed Tobacco Pouch Street, Jin Si Tao, and Nanluogu Xiang, plus three lakes being Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai. You may just visit one section that interests you, or do a tour of the whole area spending several hours. More about Shichahai including travel routes, sights, and top restaurants.

Chinese Name: 什刹海

Olympic Park

The Olympics were some time ago but the National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) and National Aquatics Center (Water Cube) are still breathtaking. You can just pass by and grab a view of the two buildings, or spend some time here strolling the Olympic Park and Olympic Forest Park. More about Olympic Park .

Time to Spend: 10 mins to an hour  Ticket:  Olympic Park is free, entry to the stadiums is not. Chinese Name:   北京奥林匹克公园   Hours: Apr. 1 to Oct.31: 6:00-21:00; Nov.1 to Mar.31: 07:00-19:00

798 Art Zone

Also known as Dashanzi Art District, it’s rather large featuring numerous galleries and halls. A mix of Chinese cultural art, modern art, and overseas artists. Visit the official website 798district

Time to Spend:  one hour  Ticket:  free Chinese Name:   北京798艺术区   Hours: 10:00 to 18:00

Fragrant Hills Park

A massive natural scenic area some 25 km outside of Beijing. It was popular dating all the way back to the Jin Dynasty. It’s quite popular in Autumn when a mass of red leaves are on display, but worthy to visit all year round. Time spent there would depend whether you use the cable car or hike. They have an official website here xiangshanpark.com.

Time to Spend:  2-4 hours   Ticket:  Combo ticket 15 RMB Chinese Name:   香山公园   Hours:  06:00 to 18:00

Jingshan Park

Right in the center of Beijing and providing an amazing view of the Forbidden City from its tallest point. It’s an Imperial garden that dates back to the Yuan Dynasty.

Time to Spend: one hour  Ticket:  2 RMB Chinese Name:   景山公园   Hours: Apr. 1 to Oct.31:  06:00 – 21:00; Nov.1 to Mar.31: 06:30 – 20:00

Jingdong Grand Canyon

A massive natural scenic area located over 80 km from Beijing, it features hills, valleys, karst caves, waterfalls and more.

Time to Spend: several hours (not inc travel time) Ticket:  78 RMB Chinese Name:   京东大峡谷   Hours: 08:00 – 18:30

National Museum of China

China’s most treasured relics and memories from history can be found here. See their official website for upcoming special exhibitions chnmuseum.cn

Time to Spend: 2 hours  Ticket:  free Chinese Name:   国家博物馆   Hours: 9:00 to 17:00, closed on Monday

Beijing is a shoppers heaven from traditional ancient market streets through to modern mega-malls, it’s all here. Here are a few highlights  Wangfujing Street , Panjiyuan Market , Galaxy SOHO, Oriental Malls , Xidan area, Silk Street , Hongqiao Market and the list goes on. You can also read T op 15 Markets in Beijing and the 9 must-visit shopping streets .

Where to Stay in Beijing?

These are my four picks, based on great value, consistently good reviews, foreigner-friendly, and closeness to the subway. The four-star Novotel Xinqiao  or the three-star  Beijing Chong Wen Men Hotel  which are both near Chongwenmen Station (line 2 and line 5) and near to Beijing Railway Station, or the four-star  Ji Hotel  which is steps away from Xuanwumen Station (line 2 and line 4), or the four-star  Sofu Hotel  is a very short walk to Ping’anli Station (line 4 and 6).

See  more hotel picks here  including my picks for the  top 5-Star hotels in Beijing .

Hotels in Beijing

• Central Beijing 5-Star Hotels
• Hotels near the Temple of Heaven
• Hotels near Beijing Capital Airport
• Beijing’s Top Spa Hotels
• Hostels near Wangfujing Street
• Hotels near Beijing Railway Station
• Hotels near Beijing South Railway Station
• Hotels near Beijing West Railway Station
• Hotels near the New China Int. Exhibition Center

Recent Posts

• China Nationalities Museum
• Chinese Aviation Museum
• Tulip Hot Spring Garden Resort
• Cuandixia Village
• Legoland Discovery Center Beijing
• Arts & Art Galleries
• Attractions & Sights
• Historical Sites
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• Restaurants & Dining
• Shopping Mall
• Shopping Streets

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

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

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. 

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

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

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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

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 !

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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 . 

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. 

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The Palace Museum in Beijing, China, is a former imperial palace also known as the Forbidden City.

Discover the Best of Beijing

Experience China's massive capital city with these top 10 tips.

Beijing’s rich culture and powerful atmosphere offer travelers a sensory feast.

Archaeological Site

A must-see for history buffs, the Ming Tombs scenic area contains the mausoleums of 13 of the 16 emperors who ruled China during the Ming Dynasty from 1368 to 1644. Three of the 13 mausoleums are open for visitors and offer an intriguing glimpse into Chinese history, grand Chinese architecture, and the cultural importance of ancestor worship. The Ming Tombs are located close to some entry points to the Great Wall, which makes it easy to combine the two sites during the same day trip.

UNESCO Site

The Forbidden City, today also known as the Palace Museum , was the home of Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors for 500 years until 1911. Located in the very heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is a remarkable portrayal of Chinese history, culture, civilization, and architecture. The Palace Museum is the world’s largest palace complex and is said to have almost 1,000 buildings and 9,999 rooms.

Cultural Experience

To get a glimpse of a Beijing before its magnificent glass buildings and skyscrapers, head to Gulou Street to explore one of the city’s remaining traditional neighborhoods, the hutong s . Hutongs are areas with narrow lanes and single story courtyard houses, but the city’s rapid modernization has left only a few of these historic neighborhoods standing. Go back in time and explore the hutongs around the Drum and Bell Towers, two landmark buildings that were used for telling time since the 13th century.

Best Day Trip

Even though the Summer Palace is located just 15 kilometers outside of central Beijing, a visit there is like entering another world. Consisting of palaces, lakes, and gardens, the Summer Palace was an imperial garden built by the Qing Dynasty for royal families to rest and entertain. It is the largest and best preserved imperial garden still in existence in China.

Most Iconic Place

The Great Wall of China is certainly not to be missed during your visit to Beijing. More than 27,000 people visit on an average day, which is an excellent reason for considering the less famous entry points, such as Jinshanling and Simatai . Some sections offer unique hiking opportunities with breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding mountains with the deserted wall snaking mysteriously into the horizon. For an experience you’ll never forget, consider camping out for a night at one of the watchtowers.

For an endless choice of restaurants and bars, visit Sanlitun in Beijing’s modern Chaoyang District. Beijing’s first bar community, Sanlitun Bar Street , is located in Sanlitun, which over the years led the area to become the city’s center for shopping, food, and nightlife. Sanlitun is particularly enjoyable in the warmer months with its numerous rooftop restaurants.

Historic Site

The Temple of Heaven is a collection of stunning ancient sacrificial buildings where emperors came to worship heaven and pray for good harvest. It is considered the most holy of Beijing’s imperial temples, but today welcomes visitors to enjoy the vast green grounds covering an area larger than the Forbidden City. The best time to visit is early morning as the park fills with locals socializing and doing morning exercises.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Local Quirk

Take an early morning stroll in one of Beijing’s many public parks, and you’ll get a glimpse of the healthy morning routines of China’s senior citizens. Witness everything from people practicing tai chi, playing badminton, walking backwards, and flying kites to dancing, singing, clapping, and exercising on gym equipment fixed to the park grounds. Many locals also have pet birds that they bring along in cages to socialize. The best park to get inspiration for healthy morning habits is the Temple of Heaven.

Neighborhood to Explore

Shichahai is a famous scenic area just north of the Forbidden City consisting of three lakes and loads of entertainment. It used to be the imperial back garden as well as the center of Beijing’s most important commercial activities, but is today a charming area surrounded with historic sites, hutongs (traditional Beijing alleys and residences), temples, restaurants, and bars.

Know Before You Go

The biggest challenge international travelers face in Beijing is the language barrier. English isn’t widely spoken, so it might be helpful to write down a few basic words and phrases to carry with you in your pocketbook or smartphone. When taking a taxi, make sure to have the names and addresses of your hotel and destinations written in Mandarin to show the driver. Beijing is generally a very safe city, but as you would anywhere, be mindful of valuables and pick-pockets in crowded areas. And do note that many international websites including social media sites are not accessible in China.

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17 Best Things to Do in Beijing [2023]

China Travel Experts

Hey fam! Just a heads up, some of the links I share may be affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through those links, I might earn a small commission. ☕️ Don't worry though, it won't cost you anything extra! Thanks for being a rockstar and helping me keep the content flowing! 😊

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.

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 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.

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(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'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Beijing

Beijing is a bustling city teeming with people and sounds. The Chinese capital is a fascinating city that is quickly modernizing but keeping some aspects of its glorious past. It is a good city to explore on foot, tucking into hutongs, enjoying delicacies at a night food market or visiting some of the top tourist attractions in Beijing .

10. Gulou and Zhonglou [SEE MAP]

Gulou and Zhonglou, known as the Drum and Bell Towers in English, used to be Beijing’s official timekeepers during the Yuan and Ming dynasties. Today, they are tourist attractions that provide insight into traditional Chinese architecture. Gulou, the Drum Tower, standing at the intersection of Gulou and Di’anmen streets, was constructed in 1272 by Kublai Khan. Visitors who are able to climb the steep stairs will be rewarded with great views of Beijing. Zhonglou, the Bell Tower, is located a short walk behind the Drum Tower. Both are located in one of Beijing’s few remaining hutong areas.

9. 798 Art District [SEE MAP]

Even people who don’t like art will come away with an appreciation for the topic after a visit to the 798 Art District, Beijing’s avant garde art district. Located in what once was an old electrical power plant, the 798 Art District is a beehive of artistic activity. Visitors can see artists at work in their studios, purchase art and art-related souvenirs, relax their tired feet at a sidewalk café, and admire the hundreds of statues that can be found outdoors on any street. To fully appreciate the 798 Art District, visitors might want to spend at least a whole day here as there is too much to see in just a few hours.

8. Nanluoguxiang [SEE MAP]

Nanluoguxiang is Beijing’s yuppie street. The nightlife in its trendy restaurants and bars draw young people like a magnet; sometimes the activity spills into the narrow street. It’s quieter during the day as shoppers seek out the latest fashions in its boutiques. Located just off Guloudongdajie (East Gulou Street), Nanluoguxiang is a short walk from the Drum Tower, making it a perfect place to explore the hutongs, as the narrow lanes lined with traditional housing are known. The Gulou area is one of the few areas left in Beijing that still has hutongs, though many of these quadrangle homes with red door are being modernized, too.

7. Lama Temple [SEE MAP]

The Yonghe Lama Temple (Palace of Peace and Harmony), located in the northeastern part of Beijing, is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world. The temple was built by Chinese emperors who harbored a deep fascination for the Tibetan version of Buddhism. Over the years, many Tibetan and Mongolian monks lived and taught here, and there are still monks in residence today. The temple contains a 26 meter (85 foot) tall statue of Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of white sandalwood.

6. Beihai Park [SEE MAP]

Beihai Park, in central Beijing, is a delight to visit any time of the year. As Beijing’s most popular park, people ice skate on the lake in winter and stroll around it in the spring when the trees are in blossom. Its Tibetan-style White Dagoba Temple on Qionghua Island is a landmark in Beijing. Because it’s so close to the Forbidden City, the park was once a royal playground. Weekend mornings are a good time to visit, as the Chinese turn out to dance, sing karaoke or Peking opera, play badminton or perform in string quartets. It is a veritable smorgasbord of entertainment.

5. Tiananmen Square [SEE MAP]

Surrounded by Soviet-style monuments and government buildings, Tiananmen Square is the largest city square in the world. It remains an astounding place and a spot to linger and see visitors from all over China, many visiting their capital for the first time. There is a flag raising and lowering ceremony at dawn and dusk at the north end of the square. There are 4 marble lions in front of the Tiananmen gate, the northwest one has a bullet hole on its stomach from the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre.

4. Summer Palace [SEE MAP]

The Summer Palace is located 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from central Beijing and is mainly dominated by the Longevity Hill and the Kunming Lake. As its name implies, the Summer Palace was used as a summer residence by China’s imperial rulers – as a retreat from the Forbidden City. The gardens were substantially extended in 1750, reproducing the styles of various palaces and gardens from around China. Kunming Lake was extended to imitate the West Lake in HangZhou.

3. Temple of Heaven [SEE MAP]

The Temple of Heaven is regarded as a Taoist Temple although Chinese Heaven worship pre-dates Taoism. The temple was constructed from 1406 to 1420 during the reign of the Yongle Emperor, who was also responsible for the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing. Not only a beautiful sight, the temple is also surrounded by a vast public park popular with local residents practicing tai chi in the mornings and on weekends.

2. Badaling [SEE MAP]

Badaling is the easiest site to access the Great Wall from Beijing, making it one of the most crowded. (Hint: To avoid crowds, go on a midweek afternoon or turn left at the main gate.) Reachable by public bus from Deshengmen on Beijing’s Second Ring Road, Badaling is the place where the Chinese government takes its official visitors. The views of the Great Wall – the world’s longest outdoor museum – snaking through the mountains are awesome. Badaling, which has wheelchair access to some sections, also is home to the fabulous Great Wall Museum, with its dioramas of building and defending the wall.

1. Forbidden City [SEE MAP]

Attracting 8 million visitors annually, the Forbidden City is the world’s largest palace complex. Situated in the heart of Beijing near the Tiananmen Square, this enormous palace was constructed in the 15th century during the Ming Dynasty and served until 1911 as the imperial residence of emperors and their families as well as the center of Chinese political and ceremonial functions. In total, 24 emperors reigned over the country for almost 5 centuries from the Forbidden City until the abdication of Puyi, the last Emperor of China.

Known today as the Palace Museum, the palace was formerly named the Forbidden City because entrance to it was strictly prohibited unless approved by the emperor due to its religious significance as the Heavenly Emperor’s earthly residence.

Surrounded by a 26-foot (8 meter) high wall with several gates, a wide moat and royal gardens, the complex covers a huge rectangle and consists of 90 palaces and halls with courtyards, nearly 1,000 other buildings and 8,700 rooms.

The complex is a magnificent treasure trove housing centuries worth of valuable Chinese artifacts and art works including paintings, ceramics, porcelains, musical instruments, textiles, martial weapons and items used by the imperial family on a daily basis. Visitors will also find a few restaurants and souvenirs shops scattered throughout the complex.

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Reader interactions.

May 13, 2015 at 7:59 am

Ahhh great list, but Badaling? It’s such a shame that people go there. So overly restored and touristy.

You guys should check out some of the unrestored wall where you can camp overnight.

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What to See

The Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, the Silk Market... Make the most of your trip to the Chinese capital by visiting the 10 must-see places in Beijing.

Beijing's top 10 tourist attractions

The forbidden city, the summer palace, the temple of heaven, the great wall of china, tian'anmen square, jingshan park, wangfujing street market, drum and bell towers, beijing olympic village, you may also be interested in.

Beijing is a huge city with hundreds of tourist attractions. Find out the most important points of interest around Beijing.

The Forbidden City is the architectural complex where the 24 Chinese emperors governed for more than 500 years from the start of the 15th century.

Top 10 Beijing Tourist Attractions | Best Places to Visit in Beijing

Beijing , the capital city of China , is one of the oldest cities in the world with a history dating back 3,000 years. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations worldwide. Occupied by 22 million people across 10,000 sq km, the city is home to numerous attractions that cater to a wide variety of interests.

Beijing of China offers a plethora of attractions to see and explore. Whether you're interested in Chinese history, traditional Chinese architecture, modern architecture, the magnificence of Chinese culture, the nostalgia of old Beijing with its Hutongs, luxurious imperial palaces, the natural beauty of Beijing's parks, historic temples, or the delicious Beijing duck, the city boasts a perfect blend of ancient and contemporary wonders to discover. So, what are the best places to visit in Beijing ? Check out our Top 10 Beijing tourist attractions  to get inspired!

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What are the Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Beijing?

While there are hundreds of popular places worth visiting in Beijing , it's not feasible to tour all of them in one go. What are the top attractions to visit in Beijing ? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top 10 tourist attractions in Beijing . This includes four world heritage sites in Beijing that are listed in many travelers' bucket list, namely the Great Wall , Forbidden City (Palace Museum), Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), and Temple of Heaven (Tiantan). To get the maximum experience of ancient Beijing , it is essential to pay a visit to Lama Temple (Yonghegong), Confucius Temple and Imperial College Museum (Guozijian), and Hutongs (narrow alleys). To discover more about modern Beijing , you won't want to miss a visit to Tian'anmen Square (The Largest Square in The World), Jingshan Park (Meet Modern Beijingers in the Former Royal Garden), and Beijing Olympic Park (Bird's Nest & Water Cube).

If you're planning a trip to Beijing and want to experience the city's authentic culture and way of life, we've compiled a list of the top 10 Beijing tourist attractions for you. These attractions offer a glimpse into Beijing's past and present, and provide opportunities to learn more about Chinese history and culture.

No.1: The Great Wall of China (World Heritage)

No visit to Beijing would be complete without a trip to the Great Wall of China . The Great Wall is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Beijing , offering an unforgettable experience that showcases the ancient and enduring spirit of China. This UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987 has been considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World and has been featured in countless works of literature, film, and art. Not only is it an iconic symbol of Chinese history and culture, but it is also one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in the world.

The Great Wall of China is one of the largest and longest structures ever built by humans. It was built over 2,000 years ago during the Warring States period to protect China's northern borders from invasion by nomadic tribes. The most well-known section of the wall is the Ming Dynasty wall (1368 to 1644), which stretches over 8,850 kilometers.

There is a famous saying, “ One who fails to reach the Great Wall is not a hero (不到长城非好汉)”. The Great Wall is a major tourist attraction in Beijing , drawing millions of visitors every year from all over the world. The most popular sections of the Great Wall are located in the mountains north of Beijing, including Badaling, Mutianyu, Simatai, and Jinshanling . You can hike along the wall, take scenic cable car rides, and marvel at the remarkable engineering expertise of ancient China and the breathtaking natural landscapes surrounding the wall, including mountains, forests, and rivers.

1)Badaling Great Wall

Badaling Great Wall (八达岭长城) was the first section of the Great Wall to be restored and opened to tourists in 1957. It is also the most representative and magnificent section of the Ming Great Wall, which was built in 1504. Located only about 60 km (1.5 hours' drive) northwest of central Beijing, Badaling Great Wall is easily accessible and has easy walking conditions. It is one of the best-preserved and most popular sections of the Great Wall, having been visited by many Chinese tourist groups and over 500 state leaders and VIPs, including Queen Elizabeth II of the UK, UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and US Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Carter, Ronald Reagan, and Richard Nixon, as well as South Africa’s former president Nelson Mandela and former leader of the Soviet Union Mikhail Gorbachev. One of the highlights of Badaling is the stone engraved with " He Who Has Never Been to the Great Wall Is Not a True Man 不到长城非好汉", a famous line from one of Mao Zedong's poems. You can take a half day to explore the Badaling Section of the Great Wall (about 7.6 kilometers long).

Notes about Badaling Great Wall Tour :

2)Mutianyu Great Wall

The Mutianyu Great Wall (慕田峪长城) is renowned as the " No. 1 Great Wall in China " and " the most beautiful Great Wall " both domestically and internationally. With over 96% of the surrounding area covered in green pine and cypress trees, the scenery is beautiful year-round. Due to its less crowded conditions and child-friendly facilities, Mutianyu Great Wall is the most popular Great Wall section among foreigners looking to escape the intense crowds at Badaling. Former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump, as well as former First Ladies Michelle Obama and Melania Trump, former British Prime Minister John Major, and other international dignitaries, have all designated a visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall when visiting China.

Built during the mid-6th century in the Northern Qi Dynasty (550-557), Mutianyu Great Wall is over 1,400 years old, making it older than the Badaling Great Wall. It has the largest construction scale and best quality among all sections of the Great Wall, with a total length of 5,400 meters. Of this, 2,250 meters of repaired parts (including 22 dense watchtowers) are open to tourists, making it the longest fully-restored Great Wall section open to tourists. You can see a rare triangular formation of three interlinked watchtowers at Mutianyu .

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is located about 73 kilometers (a 2-hour drive) northeast of central Beijing and is connected to the Jiankou Great Wall in the west and the Jinshanling Great Wall/Gubeikou Great Wall in the east. You can take cable cars up and down, and the "toboggan" ride down is great fun and suitable for both adults and children. A tour of Mutianyu would not be complete without hiking on the wall. While hiking, you can have a chance to see the local surrounding villages, as well as walk through hilly orchards and mountainsides. It offers a spectacular landscape like a traditional Chinese painting scroll.

3)Simatai Great Wall

The Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城), famous for its "wildness," is the perfect section to experience a night tour of the Great Wall. It is the only Great Wall section in China that has preserved the complete ancient style of the Ming Dynasty. Luo Zhewen, a Chinese expert on the Great Wall of China , once said, " The Great Wall is the best heritage of China, and the Simatai Great Wall is the best of the best! " The Simatai Great Wall consists of 35 watchtowers and was once known for its steep and dangerous climbs, although the most dangerous parts are no longer open to visitors. Simatai is still a great choice for those who prefer more adventure. Due to its special geographical conditions, the intensiveness and variety of towers, and the fantastic scenery, the Simatai Great Wall is a remarkable place for sightseeing, hiking, and exploration.

The Simatai Great Wall is located in Gubei Water Town , which is 120 km northeast of Beijing (a 2-hour drive). It was first built in 1368, during the reign of Emperor Hongwu of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). It is 5.4 kilometers long and is separated into eastern and western parts by the Mandarin Duck Lake (Yuan Yang Lake), which is fed by two springs, one warm and the other cold. The western part, which is connected to Jinshanling Great Wall, is gently sloped and has 20 well-preserved watchtowers. The eastern part is much steeper and demands a higher level of fitness to climb. Currently, only the section between Tower 2 and Tower 7 of the eastern part is officially open to visitors.

Simatai also offers a unique night tour experience, as the wall is beautifully lit up at night and the section between Towers 5 and 6 is open for tourists in the evening. It is advisable to arrive before sunset to enjoy views of the sunset before taking a short walk on the illuminated Great Wall at night. The whole night walking tour can be done comfortably in 1.5-2 hours. Witness the transformation of this ancient edifice under the night sky, bathed in the subtle glow of twilight. Immerse yourself in the moon's ethereal glow and uncover the secrets and legends embedded within this majestic structure. After the night tour, take a cable car down the wall and check into your hotel in Gubei Water Town.

4)Jinshanling Great Wall

Jinshanling Great Wall (金山岭长城) is most popular for hiking and photography. Located around 160km northeast of Beijing (a 2.5-hour drive), it happens to mark the boundary between Beijing and Hebei Province. It is less crowded than closer sections like Badaling and Mutianyu, and the winding Great Wall on steep mountain ridges attracts many photographers, especially during sunset and sunrise. With well-preserved watchtowers standing sentinel over undulating landscapes, each view is a postcard-worthy snapshot. Weather permitting, capturing the silhouettes of the watchtowers from multiple angles is one of the great joys of Jinshanling. It's no wonder that many iconic Great Wall images are captured here. Additionally, the Jinshanling section is popular with hikers due to its combination with other sections such as the Simatai Great Wall in the east and Gubeikou Great Wall in the west.

The Great Wall at Jinshanling was built 650 years ago during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) and rebuilt under the direction of General Qi Jiguang (1528–1588) in the 1570s. The statue of General Qi Jiguang can be found in front of the entrance to Jinshanling. This section is around 10.5 km long, including 5 passes, 67 towers, and three beacon towers. Part of the wall has been restored, but some of it remains unrestored, offering visitors the opportunity to appreciate both the original appearance and the wild side of the Great Wall. The open part is about 5-6km long, and the full-length Jinshanling Great Wall hike is also very popular among hikers. Unlike Simatai and Jiankou, hiking at Jinshanling is of medium difficulty and is appropriate for anyone who is physically fit, including families with older children. The whole hike takes 3 to 5 hours depending on your pace. For regular visitors, a cable car can effectively cut the hiking time, taking only 20 minutes to ascend.

2 Days Beijing Great Wall Day & Night Tour to Mutianyu & Simatai 2 Days Wild Beijing Great Wall Hiking Tour: Gubeikou, Jinshanling, Simatai West 3 Days In-depth Beijing Great Wall Hiking Tour: Jiankou to Mutianyu & Gubeikou-Jianshanling-Simatai 4 Days Beijing Tour: City Highlights, Great Wall Night Views & Gubei Water Tour 5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum

No.2: Forbidden City (World Heritage)

The Forbidden City (紫禁城/故宫), also named the Palace Museum , located in the heart of Beijing to the north of the Tiananmen Square, was the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing Dynasties (over 600 years old). It was listed as a World Cultural Heritage Building in 1987. Considered a divine place, it was forbidden to ordinary people, and that's why it is called the Forbidden City. With 9,999 rooms, the Forbidden City is the largest palace complex in the world, three times larger than the Louvre Palace in France. As the largest and best-preserved ancient wooden structures in the world, it took 14 years to build and was constructed by over 1,000,000 workers, including more than 100,000 craftsmen.

Completed in 1420, the Forbidden City was home to 24 emperors of China , their families, and servants - 14 from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) and 10 from the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911). You can take a walk through the impressive central axis of the Forbidden City, marveling at the palace complex, traditional Chinese architecture, and royal gardens while listening to legendary stories about the emperors and their imperial concubines in different dynasties. The Forbidden City was damaged by three fires, and so most of the present palaces were rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty. Puyi, the last emperor (1906–1967), lived in the Forbidden City until he was expelled in 1925, when the precinct was transformed into the Palace Museum. Today, the Palace Museum in the Forbidden City is one of the world's largest cultural museums, attracting 14 million visitors each year. Enter through the Meridian Gate and visit along the central axis to ensure you won't miss any highlighted palaces.

1 Day Beijing Essential Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 2 Days Beijing World Heritage Tour with Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall 3 Days Beijing Highlights Tour 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall

No.3: Summer Palace (World Heritage)

The Summer Palace (颐和园), located 15km northwest of the Forbidden City, is a grand collection of stunningly beautiful gardens and pavilions. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is considered "the world's finest example of a Chinese imperial garden" and "a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design". It combines political and administrative, residential, spiritual, and recreational functions within a landscape of lakes and mountains, in accordance with Chinese philosophy's ethos of balancing the works of man with nature. For centuries, emperors and empresses spent their leisure time there, adding to its great aesthetic value today. The Summer Palace has also greatly influenced Chinese horticulture and landscape gardening.

Emperor Qianlong first built the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) in 1750 (completed in 1764) to celebrate his mother's sixtieth birthday. It was four times the size of the Forbidden City, roughly the same size as Central Park in New York or twice the size of Hyde Park in London. At that time, it was called Qingyiyuan (Clear Ripples Garden). Though largely destroyed in the Second Opium War of the 1850s, it was reconstructed by Emperor Guangxu for use by Empress Dowager Cixi, who renamed it the Summer Palace. Dowager Empress Cixi took up permanent residence there to live a peaceful life in her old age. Although damaged again during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, it was restored and has been a public park since 1924. You are highly recommended to spend at least half a day there, enjoying activities such as boating on Kunming Lake, walking the Long Corridor, and watching traditional Chinese performances in the ancient theater.

3 Days Beijing Highlights Tour 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum

No.4: Temple of Heaven (World Heritage)

The Temple of Heaven (天坛) is an imperial sacrificial altar located in Beijing . It is the most complete existing imperial sacrificial building complex in China and the world's largest existing building complex for offering sacrifice to heaven. The Temple of Heaven is larger than the Forbidden City but smaller than the Summer Palace, roughly the same size as Central Park in New York or twice the size of Hyde Park. From 1420 to 1900, 22 Chinese Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped the god of heaven and prayed for good harvests there twice a year. To earn the respect of the people, Chinese emperors called themselves the " sons of Heaven ". The annual sacrificial ceremonies at the Temple of Heaven were the emperors' most important religious and political activities.

Completed together with the Forbidden City in 1420, the Temple of Heaven is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. Within the complex, there are a total of 92 ancient buildings with 600 rooms. The design of the main buildings is a combination of circles and squares, symbolizing the belief that Heaven is round and Earth is square. The symbolic layout and design of the Temple of Heaven had a profound influence on architecture and planning in the Far East for many centuries.

The Circular Mound Altar and The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests are the must-see highlights. You can learn about the culture of heaven worship, architectural geomancy, and medieval China's sacrificial rites. Don't forget to visit the Echo Wall to experience its magic. If you say something at one end of the wall, the message can be heard even if standing 100–150 meters away. Today, the Temple of Heaven is a morning exercise haven for locals. You can see Beijingers dancing, practicing Tai chi, and taking leisurely walks in the Temple of Heaven park. It is a perfect place to observe the retired life of Chinese people, and you are welcome to join them.

5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 3 Days Beijing Highlights Tour

No.5: Tian'anmen Square (The Largest Square in The World)

Tiananmen Square (天安门广场) is the world's largest public square and a symbol of modern China . It has witnessed many significant events in China over the past decades, such as the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, grand ceremonies, National Day anniversary parades, and many domestic and foreign affairs. A vast expanse of pavement, Tiananmen Square covers more than 400,000 square meters and can hold about 1 million people for public celebrations or gatherings.

Located in the center of Beijing to the south of the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square is very symbolic for Chinese people, and taking good pictures of Tiananmen Gate, which is shown on CCTV News every day, is a popular activity. Each morning, the flag-raising ceremony is held at sunrise and is open to the public most of the time, serving as a popular and patriotic event for many Chinese people.

Tiananmen Square lies at the center of Beijing's historical north-south axis that runs through the Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City. The square is in front of the Forbidden City and has several notable sights, including the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China , and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Thousands of people visit the Square every day. The square's historical, cultural, and political significance makes it a must-visit attraction in Beijing .

1 Day Beijing Essential Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 2 Days Beijing World Heritage Tour with Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall 3 Days Beijing Highlights Tour 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 5 Days Beijing Hutong Tour - From Ancient Beijing to Modern Beijing

No.6: Jingshan Park (Best View Point for The Forbidden City)

Jingshan Park , located in the center of Beijing, is a beautiful royal landscape garden that is over 600 years old and the highest point of Beijing's Old Imperial City . It is one of the must-visit parks in Beijing and offers a fantastic panoramic view of the Forbidden City as well as modern Beijing. Jingshan Park was a part of the Forbidden City until the early 1900s, and now its front gate faces the north gate of the Forbidden City.

During the Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644), and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, Jingshan Park served as an imperial garden and was properly laid out under the Ming Dynasty. Many trees were planted on the hills, and the pavilions were used as holy places to offer sacrifices to imperial ancestors. As a result, the royal families always enjoyed amusements here, such as hunting in the hills.

Now, Jingshan Park is a peaceful public park where locals enjoy their leisure time every day. The park features superbly landscaped hills that can be ascended by steps, clear lakes, and dignified ancient buildings. On a clear day, the Wanchun Pavilion in Jingshan Park offers the best bird's eye view of the Central Axis of Beijing. This 7.8km north-south axis links the Forbidden City, the Drum Tower, the Bell Tower, and other historical landmarks!

2 Days Beijing World Heritage Tour with Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall 3 Days Beijing Highlights Tour 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum

No.7: Hutongs (Wudaoyin, Yandaixiejie, Nanluoguxiang)

With over 700 years of history, the Hutongs are traditional narrow alleyways lined with courtyard houses that offer a glimpse into old Beijing . You can take a rickshaw ride through the Hutongs to appreciate the well-preserved courtyard residences and their long histories. With a Hutong family visit , you can experience the traditional daily life of ordinary people in Beijing, which provides a stark contrast to the imperial culture of palaces like the Forbidden City. The Hutongs are also known for their traditional street food, with many vendors selling local favorites like Beijing-style noodles and grilled meat skewers. Of all the hundreds of hutongs in Beijing, Wudaoying Hutong (五道营胡同), Yandai Xiejie (烟袋斜街), and Nanluoguxiang Hutong (南锣鼓巷) are three of the most popular hutongs.

1)Wudaoyin Hutong

Wudaoying Hutong (五道营胡同), located just across from Yonghegong Temple, offers a great opportunity to explore ordinary local life in Beijing and experience a unique blend of East and West. It is one of the coolest non-touristy alleyways in all of Beijing. You can stroll through its narrow alleys and browse the many featured shops that line both sides, from coffee shops to fast food joints. You can try Old Beijing yogurt and dumpling for lunch here before the exciting Hutong Family Visit. During your visit, you can communicate with Beijingers who grew up in the Hutongs and listen to their stories about life in the Hutongs and the typical lifestyle of the Hutong residents. It is a great way to gain insight into the local culture.

2)Yandaixiejie Street

The Yandaixiejie Steet (烟袋斜街) is the oldest commercial street (about 800 years) and one of the oldest and top 10 popular hutongs in Beijing . Yandaixie Street, which means Skewed Tobacco Pouch Street in Chinese, is a 232-meter-long Hutong. During the Qing Dynasty, people were fond of smoking and carried tobacco pouches (Yandai) with them wherever they went. As a result, many tobacco shops (selling smoking sets) opened on this skewed (xie) street, giving rise to its name. Now you can still purchase tobacco pouches of various sizes and shapes there, including porcelain ones, jade ones, wooden ones, and bronze ones. Located close to the Shichahai Park and Nanluoguxiang Hutong, Yandaixiejie is also a cultural street, where many quadrangle dwellings (Si He Yuan) are dotted, attracting millions of visitors each year. Don't forget to try the Hutong food and take a Rickshaw Tour around the Hutongs and the Shichahai Area.

3)Nanluoguxiang Hutong

Nanluoguxiang Hutong (南锣鼓巷), also known as Southern Gong and Drum Lane , is one of the oldest streets in Beijing, with a history dating back about 800 years. It used to be home to famous and wealthy Manchu families who ruled the Qing Empire (1644-1911). In the early 20th century, it was a residential area for nationalist political leaders, artists, and literary figures. Despite the passing of many dynasties, this alley remains more complete than other historical heritage sites in Beijing.

Nanluoguxiang Hutong is 768 meters long and 8 meters wide, with eight parallel hutongs on each side of the old alley. Situated in the downtown area, it is easily accessible. Today, this street has become a favorite shopping, bar, and restaurant destination for both domestic and international tourists. The street is particularly popular among young people for its relaxed shopping and dining experience. Nanluoguxiang offers a feast for the eyes, stomach, and mind all at once.

4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum 5 Days Beijing Hutong Tour - From Ancient Beijing to Modern Beijing

No.8: Beijing Olympic Park (Bird's Nest & Water Cube)

Beijing Olympic Park , located at the north end of the central axis of Beijing, was where the 2008 Summer Olympic Games and the 2022 Winter Olympics took place. Today, it has become a comprehensive public activity center. Most visitors to the park usually make their way to its Central Section, which includes the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube . These magnificent structures offer a great way to witness the modern Beijing skyline and have become a landmark of Beijing .

1)Bird's Nest in Olympic Park

The Bird's Nest , also known as the Beijing National Stadium , is the largest stadium in Beijing and an important Olympic venue that hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2022 Winter Olympics. It is the only stadium in the world to host both summer and winter Olympic Games ceremonies . Its outer shell is the world's largest steel structure and forms part of the most complex Olympic stadium ever constructed. The Bird's Nest is not only a striking piece of architecture but also a masterpiece of Chinese design philosophy. Today, the Bird's Nest is a popular tourist attraction and a must-see for visitors to Beijing . It offers a unique glimpse into modern Chinese engineering and architecture. The stadium also hosts a range of events throughout the year, from concerts to sporting events, making it a vibrant hub of activity in Beijing.

2)Water Cube in Olympic Park

The Water Cube , or the Beijing National Aquatics Center , was built as the main natatorium (swimming pool venue) for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games and became known as one of the Games' iconic structures. Then it was turned into Ice Cube for the curling venue in the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. It got its name due to its huge blue cube structure with a soap bubble design. This seemingly simple "cube" was designed according to traditional Chinese culture as well as modern science and technology. Ancient Chinese believed that heaven was like a dome covering the square earth. At night, it turns into a glowing blue cube alongside the fiery red National Stadium. It is now a multi-functional center for sports, recreation, and fitness.

2 Days Beijing World Heritage Tour with Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall 3 Days Beijing Highlights Tour 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall

No.9: Lama Temple (Yonghe Palace)

The Lama Temple , also known as the Yonghe Temple or the Palace of Peace and Harmony , was originally a royal palace that was later converted into a temple. It was the birthplace of both the Yongzheng Emperor (1678-1735) and the Qianlong Emperor (1736-1796) of the Qing Dynasty. As the biggest temple of Tibetan Buddhism located in the heart of Beijing , it offers three treasures for visitors to explore: the largest sandalwood Buddha in the world, the bronze Buddhas of past, present, and future, and the 500-Arhat-Hill.

Today, the Lama Temple is not only a museum of Tibetan Buddhism but also a functioning temple where people come to pray. Visitors can learn about Tibetan Buddhism and engage with many monks and practitioners who are available to answer questions and offer insights into the religion. The temple provides a quiet and peaceful retreat from the noise and bustle of the city, making it a great place to relax and reflect.

5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum 5 Days Beijing Hutong Tour - From Ancient Beijing to Modern Beijing 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall

No.10: Confucius Temple and Imperial College Museum (Guozijian)

The Beijing Confucius Temple and Imperial College Museum (Guozijian), is consisting of two parts: Confucius Temple (Kongmiao) and Imperial College Museum (Guozijian). Kongmiao is the place where people paid homage to Confucius during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Confucius is the greatest thinker and educationalist in ancient China.

Guozijian (Imperial academy) is a kind of university/college in ancient China that can be traced back to the Sui Dynasty (581–618). Guozijian is also the place where the Emperor personally lectures. The college was constructed right next to the temple in accordance with Chinese tradition where a temple is always to the left of a school. This museum is a good place for you to learn more about ancient China's education system and ancient buildings.

How to Plan Your Beijing Tours with Top Attractions?

Beijing is a large city full of top attractions that you won't want to miss. Therefore, it's important to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time. The number of days you need for Beijing tours depends on your travel style and the attractions you want to visit. Generally, to visit the top attractions in Beijing, you will need at least 2 to 5 days. When planning your Beijing tours with top attractions, consider the following:

1 to 3 days: If you only have a few days in Beijing, focus on the must-see sights like the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.

1 Day Beijing Essential Tour with Forbidden City & Great Wall 2 Days Beijing World Heritage Tour with Forbidden City & Mutianyu Great Wall 3 Days Beijing Highlights Tour

4 to 5 days: With this amount of time, you can explore the top attractions in Beijing more thoroughly, and also have some time to experience the local culture and cuisine.

Discover Beijing Attractions with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)

Based in China with our office located in Beijing , our local team at Asia Odyssey Travel provides the best service to ensure an authentic and unforgettable experience for those who want to visit Beijing . We offer a variety of carefully designed Beijing tours, including Classic Beijing Tours , Great Wall Tours , Hutong Tours, Layover Tours, and Visa-free Tours, that cater to your needs and desires. Whether you prefer a private tour with a flexible itinerary or a budget-friendly group tour without compromising on quality, Asia Odyssey Travel has a tour to suit you, ensuring that your journey to Beijing is an enjoyable vacation.

lf you're looking to extend your Beijing trip into a longer vacation, Asia Odyssey Travel also offers a range of inspiring ideas through our China tours from Beijing . Our professional travel consultants are ready to help you customize a tailor-made Beijing Tour at the best local price. Don't hesitate to contact us to start planning your dream trip to Beijing today!

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