Visit Beijing in China | Best Tours, Attractions & Things To Do

Beijing, China

Beijing, China

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About Beijing

About Beijing

Beijing is the economic, social, and technological heart of China. As China's capital city, Beijing provides a vast and remarkable experience for visitors from all over the world.

With a population of 21.5 million people, it is the nation's second-largest city after Shanghai. Beijing literally means Northern Capital, reflecting the role it has played many times in China's long history. The city first became notable after it was made the capital of the State of Yan. It then carried the name "Yanjing" and was one of the major kingdoms of the Warring States Period about 2,000 years ago. What is more, Beijing was also the seat of the Ming and Qing dynasty emperors until the formation of a republic in 1911.

Reasons to travel to Beijing

Beijing is a wonderful mix of China's numerous cultures and historical periods. Tourists can view China's Imperial past in perfectly preserved buildings, courts, and parks. The city is characterized by its vastness and large distances between locations. Until recently Beijing was almost entirely made up of hutongs with narrow lanes and single-story buildings. Now, many of the hutongs have given way to broad boulevards and modern buildings, contributing to an airy, sprawling feel, in sharp contrast to cities like Hong Kong and Shanghai. Among the main sites to put on your Beijing itinerary is the Forbidden City, like its configuration Beijing has concentric "ring roads", which are actually rectangular, that go around the metropolis. Beyond the ring roads are the most-visited parts of the Great Wall of China, an absolute must-do during Beijing travel.

While Beijing is building skyscrapers at a rapid pace, many relics of its past are still standing and are ready to be explored. This can be done in the daytime for a truly enlightening experience. There are many local shops where one can buy handmade gifts or clothing. Fresh markets are abundant and local delicacies can be tried at a very good price. At night, Beijing glows in a colorful array of skyscrapers, cars, and neon-lit clubs. The nightlife in Beijing is very eclectic, ranging from English-style pubs to dance clubs and much more. As with all major international cities, Beijing's nightlife continues until sunrise.

One of the most enjoyable activities for any visitor is the wide selection of food that fits into any price range. From fast-food carts to luxurious restaurants, there is delectable food available for any occasion. With such historic sites as the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Great Wall located nearby, Beijing is an essential stop for any worldly traveler.

Best Things to Do in Beijing

  • Touch history when visiting Beijing's Forbidden City
  • Stop by the noted Beijing attraction, the Summer Palace
  • Travel to the city outskirts to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China
  • Get a taste of authentic China in one of the local restaurants or get acquainted with the street food culture
Best Tours to Beijing
Top Attractions in Beijing

Top Attractions in Beijing

Forbidden City, Beijing

Beijing’s Forbidden City is the perfectly preserved royal residence of 24 Chinese emperors.

Ming Tombs, China

The Ming Tombs are a well-preserved imperial burial complex northwest of Beijing.

The Great Wall of China, Beijing

The Great Wall of China is the longest wall on Earth and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

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All Attractions in Beijing

All Attractions in Beijing

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