10 Apr Beijing
Welcome to Beijing
As a traveller who has explored the wonders of Beijing, I can confidently say that this bustling metropolis is a true gem of China. Beijing’s enchanting sights and sounds will mesmerize you, with a city perfectly blending ancient history and modern innovation with towering skyscrapers alongside ancient temples and historical landmarks.
During my visit, Beijing’s vibrant culture and rich history left a lasting impression on me. Exploring the Forbidden City, walking along the Great Wall of China, and admiring the intricate architecture of the Temple of Heaven are just a few of the unforgettable experiences I had while in Beijing. But there’s more to the city than its historical landmarks – Beijing is also home to incredible cuisine, bustling markets, and world-class museums.
Although the city can be overwhelming at times with its sheer size and constant activity, the warm hospitality of the locals will make you feel right at home. Beijing truly offers something for everyone.
How To Get There
Beijing is a central transportation hub and can be reached by air, train, or bus.
Air: Serving numerous international and domestic destinations, the Beijing Capital International Airport stands out as one of the busiest airports in the world. Many major airlines operate flights to Beijing, making it easy to find a direct or connecting flight from most major cities worldwide. From the airport, you can take a taxi, subway, or bus to your destination in the city.
Train: Beijing’s comprehensive rail network connects it to other major cities in China. The Beijing Railway Station and the Beijing West Railway Station are two major train stations in the city. High-speed trains are also available, taking you to destinations like Shanghai and Guangzhou in hours.
Bus: An affordable and convenient way to travel to Beijing from nearby cities. Long-distance buses operate from major cities in China and neighbouring countries like Mongolia and Russia. However, bus travel can take longer than other modes of transport due to traffic congestion.
Places Of Interest
Stretching over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall is one of the world’s most impressive feats of ingenuity. Several wall sections are easily accessible from Beijing, including the popular Badaling and Mutianyu sections. These sections offer stunning views of the wall as it snakes its way across the mountains. Take a hike along the wall for a truly unforgettable experience. Book tickets here.
I Climbed the Great Wall of China !!
The Summer Palace in Beijing is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built during the Qing Dynasty. It’s a stunning example of traditional Chinese garden design, with beautiful gardens, pavilions, bridges, and temples scattered throughout the complex. The centrepiece of the palace is the lovely Kunming Lake, which visitors can explore by boat. The palace is also famous for its Long Corridor, a covered walkway decorated with over 14,000 paintings. The Summer Palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of China’s imperial rulers. Book tickets here.
My visit to the Summer Palace
This vast complex was once the home of China’s emperors and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With over 9,000 rooms, it’s easy to get lost in the labyrinthine palace, but it’s worth exploring the ornate buildings, beautiful gardens, and intricate artwork that fills the space. Book tickets here.
Tiananmen Square is a large public square in the centre of Beijing, China. It’s one of the largest city squares in the world and has significant political and historical importance. The square has several landmarks, including the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, and the National Museum of China. It’s also the site of important events in Chinese history, including the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989. Book tickets here.
Also known as the Palace Museum Garden, located in the centre of the Forbidden City, is a classic example of a traditional Chinese garden designed during the Ming Dynasty. The garden covers an area of over 12,000 square meters and features a central axis with pavilions, courtyards, rockeries, and a large artificial hill. The garden is famous for its intricate architecture and beautiful landscapes, with trees, flowers, and ponds that are carefully arranged to create a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. Book tickets here.
My visit to the Imperial Garden
The Beijing Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in China, covering an area of over 220 acres. It’s home to over 14,500 animals from around 450 species, including pandas, tigers, elephants, and more. The zoo is famous for its Giant Panda House, where visitors can see these beloved animals up close. It also has various other attractions, including an aquarium, a butterfly garden, and a children’s zoo. Book tickets here.
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, The Temple of Heaven in Beijing, is a famous landmark built during the Ming Dynasty for emperors to pray for good harvests. Its most iconic building is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, surrounded by a circular wall and gates. The temple is designed to reflect Chinese cosmology, with a layout representing the connection between heaven and earth. Book tickets here.
The National Museum of China in Beijing is one of the largest museums worldwide, with a vast collection of cultural and historical artefacts. It is divided into two main sections of the Museum: the Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution. The exhibits cover various topics, from the earliest days of Chinese civilization to modern times, famous for collecting ancient artefacts, including bronze vessels, jade carvings, and ceramics. Book tickets here.
Hutongs are a type of narrow alleyway or lane that is found in traditional neighbourhoods in Beijing. These alleyways are lined with traditional courtyard houses, many dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. They offer an insight into the everyday lives of ordinary Chinese people, with local markets, shops, and restaurants tucked away down their narrow streets. They are a unique and charming part of Beijing’s cultural heritage and a popular destination for tourists to explore and experience traditional Chinese life. Book tickets here.
Where To Stay
Luxury Hotels
This hotel offers elegant rooms with stunning city views near the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, making it a perfect base for exploring Beijing’s historic landmarks.
Mid-Range Hotels
A mid-range hotel with spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace offering stunning city views. It is located near Wangfujing shopping street and the Forbidden City.
Budget Hotels
InterContinental Beijing Beichen, an IHG Hotel
InterContinental Beijing Beichen is a luxurious hotel located in the Olympic Business District of Beijing, offering stunning views of the city and world-class amenities to its guests.
Where To Eat
Beijing is famous for its delicious cuisine, and the city has many great places to eat. Here are some of the best:
Noodle Loft: It is a restaurant in Beijing specializing in hand-pulled noodles located in the famous food district of Gulou.
Mr Shi’s Dumplings: It is a restaurant in Beijing Dongcheng district specializing in various dumplings, including pork, chicken, and vegetable fillings.
Quanjude Roast Duck: It is a famous restaurant in Beijing with multiple locations, specializing in crispy and delicious roasted duck, a must-try dish when visiting the city.
King’s Joy: This vegetarian restaurant in Beijing’s Xicheng district offers delicious and creative plant-based dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend this city as a must-visit destination. From the stunning views of the Great Wall to the mouth-watering local cuisine and bustling nightlife, Beijing has something for everyone. Whether you’re a luxury traveller, a budget-conscious backpacker, or a foodie looking to indulge, Beijing will not disappoint. The city’s charm, a unique blend of ancient and modern, and friendly locals make it an unforgettable experience. A visit to Beijing is not just a trip but a lifetime journey.
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