Beijing China

Overview

Beijing, China's capital, carries thousands of years of imperial heritage in the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and its hutong lanes. Modern skyscrapers, art districts and famous Peking duck sit on one route. The finest sections of the Great Wall are an easy day trip away.

Getting around

The metro is fast and cheap and can be used with QR codes via Alipay or WeChat. The Airport Express connects Capital Airport to the metro. Use taxis or Didi for longer hops; the Great Wall needs a tour or private car.

Where to stay

• Dongcheng (Hutongs) – The historic core near the Forbidden City, full of hutong lanes, temples and cafés.
• Xicheng (Houhai) – Strolls around the Houhai lakes, bars and traditional courtyard homes.
• Qianmen & Dashilar – Old shopping lanes, roast duck restaurants and traditional shops.
• Chaoyang & Sanlitun – Hub of modern shopping, nightlife and international dining.
• 798 Art Zone – Galleries and contemporary art in converted factories.

Guide topics

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  Food & Drink

  Beijing cuisine blends imperial palace dishes, northern Chinese noodles and dumplings, and hutong street snacks. Peking duck is a must, alongside noodles, pastries and spicy northern fare.

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  Museums

  Beijing's museums trace Chinese history from the Forbidden City to modern art. Many are free or cheap, but a passport and advance booking are usually required.

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  Hiking

  In the mountains north of Beijing, restored and wild sections of the Great Wall invite hikers. In the city, parks such as Jingshan, Beihai and the Summer Palace offer easy, scenic walks.

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  Extreme Sports

  Around Beijing you can scramble wild Great Wall, ride toboggans, bungee jump and ice skate. Always use licensed operators and check the weather.

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  Culture

  Beijing has been an imperial capital for over 800 years, and its temples, palaces and hutongs keep that legacy alive. Peking opera, tea culture and the Spring Festival set the city's rhythm.