Beijing
The Imperial City Where 5,000 Years of History Lives.
Home to the Great Wall and the Forbidden City - China's magnificent capital.
Must-See Attractions
Essential places to visit on your first trip to Beijing
Forbidden City (故宫)
The world's largest palace complex. Home to 24 Ming and Qing emperors over 600 years, with 9,999 rooms spread across 180 acres.
Great Wall (Badaling) (八达岭)
The greatest architectural feat in human history. The Badaling section is the most popular - just 1.5 hours from central Beijing with cable car access.
Tiananmen Square
The world's largest public square and gateway to the Forbidden City. Watch the daily flag-raising ceremony at dawn, with the National Museum nearby.
Summer Palace (颐和园)
A magnificent imperial garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill create stunning scenery, with the famous Long Corridor featuring 14,000 paintings.
798 Art District
A contemporary art hub housed in former military factory buildings. Galleries, trendy cafes, and independent bookstores create Beijing's most creative neighborhood.
Shichahai (什刹海)
Traditional hutong alleys meet scenic lakeside charm. Take a rickshaw tour through winding alleyways, then enjoy drinks at a lakeside bar as the sun sets.
Getting Around Beijing
Beijing Subway
27 lines covering all major attractions
Pay with Alipay/WeChat QR codes
Base fare from 3 RMB
Runs 05:00-23:00 daily
Taxi / DiDi
Book easily through DiDi app
Base fare 13 RMB (3km)
Best for longer distances
Recommended for Great Wall trips
Airport Transfer
Capital (PEK) - Airport Express 25 RMB
Daxing (PKX) - Daxing Line 35 RMB
40 min - 1 hour to city center
Taxi: 100-150 RMB
Beijing Food Highlights
Must-try dishes when visiting Beijing
Peking Duck (北京烤鸭)
Beijing's most iconic dish.
Try Quanjude or Da Dong.
Crispy skin wrapped in thin pancakes.
Zhajiangmian (炸酱面)
Beijing's signature noodle dish.
Thick noodles with savory soybean paste sauce and fresh vegetable toppings.
Hot Pot (火锅)
Beijing-style lamb hot pot.
Traditional copper pot style.
Try Donglaishun for the classic experience.
Tanghulu (糖葫芦)
Candied fruit on a stick.
Traditional street snack.
Hawthorn berry is classic, strawberry is popular.
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Spring (Apr-May) - Mild weather, flowers blooming
Autumn (Sep-Oct) - Clear skies, ideal temperatures
Weather
Winter - Very cold and dry (-10°C / 14°F)
Summer - Hot and humid (35°C+ / 95°F+)
Four distinct seasons
Payment
Alipay/WeChat Pay essential
Cash rarely accepted
Foreign cards can top up
Air Quality & Tips
Bring a pollution mask
Check air quality apps
Pack warm layers for winter visits
Prepare for Your Beijing Trip
Essential preparation before your adventure in China's capital