Explore Ancient Complexes and Modern Marvels
China’s sprawling capital city has a long history spanning more than 3 millennia. The city is modern on the surface but ancient sites are still found throughout the city. When it comes to what to do in Beijing, we have all the best mix of modern and ancient for you to explore.
Forbidden City Complex
A trip to Beijing wouldn’t be complete without a tour of the iconic Forbidden City complex. This massive complex is the largest ancient palace complex in the entire world.
It is also the most well-preserved imperial palace in the country. It is the heart of the city both literally and figuratively as it is centrally located and represents the most significant cultural icon in Beijing.
The palace was home to 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties, spanning several centuries. It occupies 74 hectares, has nearly 9,000 rooms, and is surrounded by a moat and 10-meter-high walls.
The palace was once closed to anyone who didn’t have special permission from the emperor to enter, but today it is open to tourists and sees many visitors each year who come to experience this royal architectural treasure.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square is a name known all around the world for the Tiananmen Square protests and subsequent massacre in 1989 when student protests were forcibly suppressed by the military. The square is a popular tourist destination for many reasons beyond this sobering historic event.
The square is located right in the center of the capital, adjacent to the Forbidden City. It is massive, with a lot of open space and flanked with popular attractions on every side. Popular Tiananmen Square attractions include The Gate of Heavenly Peace, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and possibly the most popular attraction, the mausoleum of Chairman Mao Zedong.
Come early for the daily flag raising ceremony at the crack of dawn. It is a truly interesting cultural experience.
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Great Wall of China
Beijing is the jumping-off point for many foreign visitors who come to see the Great Wall, undoubtedly China’s most famous tourist attraction. A number of the most famous sections of the wall are near Beijing.
Mutianyu, Badaling, Simatai and Jinshanling are all located in Beijing’s suburbs and are accessible by the city’s public transport network. These sections near the capital are relatively well-preserved and visiting the wall is a must-do on any trip to China.
Add it to your itinerary and take a glimpse into ancient history.
Beijing World Park
Beijing World Park is a theme park that gives guests an opportunity to experience key sights around the world without ever leaving Beijing. The park has approximately 100 different cultural attractions and natural features from around 50 different countries throughout the world.
As you walk through 17 different sections all focused on different themes such as North America, Africa, East Asia and more you will see iconic buildings from around the world such as the Statue of Liberty, the Pyramids of Giza, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Grand Canyon and many more.
A daily world folklore parade, dance shows and exotic international cuisine will give you even more ways to experience different cultures during your visit.
Beijing Zoo
The Beijing Zoo has been welcoming tourists and locals since 1906 when it opened with just a few animals. From these humble beginnings it has grown to house more than 5,000 animals from 450 or more species.
Highlights of your visit will certainly be the Giant Panda House, which is one of only a few places in the world where you can view giant pandas in captivity. Additional highlights include Manchurian tigers, Indian elephants, giraffes from Africa and a long list of other animals.
The Beijing Aquarium is located at the zoo as well and is the largest inland aquarium anywhere in the world. Visitors of all ages are sure to enjoy getting up close with impressive species at the Beijing Zoo and hopefully learning a little more about the animals that inhabit the world around us.
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Shopping in Wangfujing
Even though many of the top attractions in Beijing are ancient, commercial streets in the city are even more present and pay evidence to the country’s development into a modern commercial power.
Wangfujing is one of the most well-known and popular streets for shopping. Dozens of name brands stand alongside smaller shops, boutiques and of course traditional Chinese shops. If you are hoping to experience upscale shopping in Beijing, this should be on the top of your list. Some of the highlights are the Beijing Department Store, the Foreign Languages Bookstore and many other shops.
The street is virtually always busy. In warmer months, cafes line the sidewalks and exhibitions often take place in the center. A huge Catholic church, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, stands at one end and is a nice place to relax and take in the sights and sounds around you.
In the evening there is a food market with a plethora of food stalls selling everything from pork kebobs and dumplings to more exotic fare such as snake and fried scorpion.