Beijing, China: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ready to explore Beijing? It's a grand mix of old and new. You'll be amazed by its Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China. These sites are the heart of China's culture and history.

Beijing is a city of many faces, home to 21.5 million people. It changes from ancient to modern in a heartbeat. As you roam its palaces and sacred temples, you'll be in awe. This guide will show you the top 15 sights to see. Including not just the classics but also unique spots.

Revel in Beijing's deep history and vibrant culture. Let its beauty and energy take your breath away.

Key Takeaways

• Beijing is a city of contrasts, blending ancient history and modern marvels.
• The city is home to iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and Great Wall of China.
• Visitors can explore historic palaces, royal gardens, solemn temples, and bustling markets.
• The article recommends the top 15 things to do and see in Beijing, from traditional favorites to unique alternative sights.
• Prepare to be captivated by Beijing's rich cultural heritage and diverse array of attractions.

Explore the Iconic Forbidden City

In Beijing, you'll find the grand Forbidden City. It's a huge complex that used to be only for the Ming and Qing emperors. This site, from 1406, shows top-notch Chinese design and skill. You can see huge, well-designed buildings and detailed artwork.

The Palace Museum

Inside the Forbidden City, there's the Palace Museum. It has over 1 million treasures, like art, ceramics, and precious stones. Visit to understand more about China's rich culture and the luxury of its past rulers.

Jingshan Park and Beihai Park

Around the Forbidden City, there are beautiful places like Jingshan Park and Beihai Park. From Jingshan, you can see the whole city. Beihai Park has peaceful gardens and a lake. These spots are great for a break from exploring.

Conquer the Great Wall of China

There's a landmark well-known worldwide, the Great Wall of China. It dates back to the 7th century BC. Most of it was built during the Ming dynasty, from 1368 to 1644. You can see famous sections at places like Badaling, Jiayu Pass, and Shanhai Pass. Each spot gives a special look at this huge structure.

If you're into adventures, try the Simatai part of the wall. It's loved for its tough, beautiful land. Covering 21,196 kilometers (13,171 miles), the wall was a barrier protecting China's north against nomads from the Eurasian Steppe. Climbing the Great Wall not only treats your eyes but also gives you a stronger bond with China's past and smart people.

Retreat to the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is called Yiheyuan in Chinese. It's a vast garden complex with many palaces, lakes, and temples. This retreat was built slowly over hundreds of years, starting way back in 1153. It was first known as Gardens of Clear Ripples because of its many water features.

Now, it's mostly called Yiheyuan after a big renovation in 1888. This renovation was done for the 60th anniversary celebration of Empress Dowager Cixi. The place covers an area of 290 hectares (716 acres), with three-fourths of it being water. This makes the entire complex very serene.

The Imperial Gardens

The garden at the Summer Palace is a perfect example of traditional Chinese design. It has hills, forests, and a big lake. Also, there are many beautiful buildings and pavilions. Walking through here lets you see how rich and powerful people lived in China's past.

Kunming Lake

Kunming Lake takes up most of the Summer Palace's space. It's very calm and pretty, with many small islands. People enjoy rowing boats and walking around it. The Marble Boat is a famous sight here, known for its unique design. It's a must-see spot.

Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace)

Besides the Summer Palace, visitors can see the Old Summer Palace. It's called Yuanmingyuan and was also a big garden. Unfortunately, it was badly damaged in the 19th century. But even its ruins show us what China's past was like. It's an interesting place that contrasts with the still beautiful Summer Palace.

Experience Tiananmen Square

In the middle of Beijing is Tiananmen Square, China's political heart. This public area is filled with famous spots that show China's strength and history. The grand Tiananmen Tower stands at the entrance, welcoming visitors.

Tiananmen Tower

The Tiananmen Tower, or the Gate of Heavenly Peace, shows off Chinese design perfectly. Visitors can go up for a great view of Tiananmen Square. Daily, the national flag is raised and dropped here, showing a proud tradition.

Great Hall of the People

Opposite the Tiananmen Tower is the Great Hall of the People. It's where China's leaders meet for important discussions. The building's size and style represent China's political power. Inside, visitors can see the beautiful rooms where leaders meet.

Monument to the People's Heroes

In the square's middle is the Monument to the People's Heroes. It's a tall obelisk that remembers those who fought in China's revolution. This monument reminds visitors of China's hard path to where it is today. Its simple yet powerful design tells a story of China's past struggles.

Seeing Tiananmen Square and its landmarks is to explore China's political and cultural core. The square's events and its grand buildings show China's journey. From its beginning to today, this site reflects China's story and spirit.

Discover Ancient Tombs at the Ming Tombs

Explore the Ming Tombs, where Chinese emperors were buried hundreds of years ago. This place offers a look at China's rich history. The Sacred Way is at the center, a path leading to the tombs. You'll see grand statues and archways that highlight the Ming dynasty's power and beauty.

Dingling, Changling, and Zhaoling Tombs

There are three main tombs at the Ming Tombs: Dingling, Changling, and Zhaoling. They show the detailed burial rituals of ancient Chinese rulers. You can view the beautiful architecture, sculptures, and ancient items in these amazingly preserved tombs. It's a chance to learn more about the ancient Chinese tombs and the Ming dynasty.

Embrace Cultural Heritage

Beijing has many amazing temples and religious spots. They show China's deep cultural past. Among these is the

Temple of Confucius

, the

Temple of Heaven

, and the

Yonghe Temple (Lama Temple)

The Temple of Confucius celebrates Confucius, a key figure in Chinese thought and ethics. It highlights his ongoing influence on China. Here, you can walk through beautiful halls and gardens from the 11th century.

The Temple of Heaven is a place for traditional religious ceremonies. It includes temples, altars, and gardens. Kings from past dynasties visited to pray for good harvests and their country's safety.

Then, we have the Yonghe Temple, also called the Lama Temple. It’s a working Buddhist monastery built in the 18th century. The mix of Tibetan, Manchu, and Chinese styles creates a unique spiritual experience. It’s a special place to learn about Chinese Daoism, plus Tibetan Buddhism.

These sites let you dive into China’s rich mix of philosophies and faiths. They are a window into China’s deep-seated traditions.

Wander Through Historic Hutongs

Walking through the hutongs is a great way to see old Beijing's charm. Hutongs are narrow alleys with courtyard housing complexes. Most of them are gone now, thanks to the city growing. But, near Houhai Lake and Gulou Dajie, some special hutongs are still there. Nanluoguxiang street is very popular for its unique shops and cafes, and you can also see the ancient Drum and Bell Towers.

Strolling down Beijing's historic alleys and seeing the traditional courtyard housing takes you back in time. From the vibrant Nanluoguxiang to the quiet lakeside hutongs, each place has its own story. These old areas are a peaceful break from the city's rush.

Beijing, China: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Beijing has a lot to see aside from its famous spots. The Bell and Drum Towers were key time markers in the past. Today, they welcome visitors and offer drum shows. Prince Gong's Mansion is a beautiful Qing dynasty palace. The Shichahai Area is a mix of three scenic lakes and old hutongs. It's great for seeing historic architecture.

Bell and Drum Towers

The Bell Tower and Drum Tower are iconic in Beijing. They used to tell time. Now, you can go up and see drum shows, showing off the city's culture.

Prince Gong's Mansion

Prince Gong's Mansion is in Beijing's center. It's a Qing dynasty palace and gardens. It shows how China's elite used to live. Visitors can walk in its beautiful areas and see the amazing historic architecture.

Shichahai Area

The Shichahai Area has three beautiful lakes. It's perfect for exploring old Beijing. You can walk in the historic hutongs and see places like Skewed Tobacco Pouch Street. This area shows both the historic architecture and local culture well.

Explore Modern Marvels

Beijing mixes old stories with new ideas, making it a very interesting place to see. The Olympic Park is a great example. It shows how Beijing has grown fast and become a big city globally.

Olympic Park

In the Olympic Park, you will find the famous Bird's Nest stadium and Water Cube center. They were built for the 2008 Summer Olympics. Top architects from around the world created these amazing buildings. They stand for Beijing's change into a current city. You can see the amazing designs, walk around, and feel the Olympic spirit here.

798 Art Zone

Go beyond the Olympic sites to find another cool part of Beijing - the 798 Art Zone. This area, also called the Dashanzi Art District, is full of contemporary art spaces. It's in old factory buildings. Step into the art galleries and watch art from Chinese and world-famous artists. You will feel the creative energy everywhere.

Being caught up in the Olympic Park's amazing design or the 798 Art Zone's lively art, Beijing's modern spots show a new side to its old stories and rich culture.

Escape to Nature

In Beijing, amid busy streets and high buildings, many tranquil places let you enjoy nature. Places like Fragrant Hills Park, Jingshan Park, and Jingdong Grand Canyon offer different natural scenes to escape the city.

Fragrant Hills Park

Fragrant Hills Park is 25 kilometers from Beijing's center. It's very popular, especially in autumn when its red leaves shine. Walk through its lush natural scenery to see beautiful views. Its trails are great for hiking and getting close to nature.

Jingshan Park

Jingshan Park is closer to central Beijing. It offers amazing views of the Forbidden City. Climbing to the top gives you a great view of Beijing's rich history and culture.

Jingdong Grand Canyon

For a wild, remote trip, visit the Jingdong Grand Canyon, 80 kilometers outside the city. It has impressive hills, rich valleys, and stunning waterfalls. You'll be amazed by its unique karst landscapes.

Immerse in History at the National Museum

The National Museum of China sits in Beijing on Tiananmen Square. Here, over a million cultural relics tell the story of China's history. You can see exhibits on ancient China and special shows of cherished artifacts.

Its vast galleries let you explore thousands of years of cultural heritage. From the past to the present, you'll find ancient pottery, jade, and more. These items show a glimpse of China's long and colorful history.

The museum also brings different special exhibitions throughout the year. They focus on unique parts of Chinese culture and history. These shows feature rare cultural relics, letting visitors connect with China's most significant artifacts.

For history lovers or those curious about China, a trip to the National Museum of China is a highlight. It will fascinate you with its collection of historical treasures. This visit is a great way to dive into the story of Chinese civilization.

Conclusion

Beijing, the mysterious capital of China, is full of amazing places to see. It highlights the country's deep history, lively culture, and fast modernization. The famous Forbidden City and Great Wall are just the start. Visitors also love the peaceful Summer Palace and the active hutongs.

Here, you can dive into the city's cultural heritage at popular temples. You can see the latest in contemporary art too. And if you want a break, head to the nearby hills and canyons. With all this, Beijing is a top pick for anyone who wants to feel China's true spirit.

Love historical sites or modern marvels? Want to feel deep cultural heritage? Beijing welcomes all types of visitors with open arms. Enjoy this lively city and find the many amazing experiences it offers.