Beijing, the bustling capital of China, is a city that blends its rich imperial history with modern sophistication. From world-famous landmarks like the Great Wall to serene temples and vibrant markets, Beijing offers countless attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Here’s a detailed guide to the first five of Beijing’s top 20 attractions, including everything you need to plan your visit.
1. The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu Section)
Description: One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and well-preserved structure. This section is less crowded compared to Badaling, making it ideal for a more peaceful exploration.
History: Originally built during the Northern Qi Dynasty (550–577 AD) and restored during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 AD), Mutianyu served as a key defense point against invasions.
Google Maps Link: Great Wall – Mutianyu
Official Website: Mutianyu Great Wall Official Site
Ticket Prices: Entry – ¥40; Cable car round trip – ¥120.
Opening Hours: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm (summer); 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (winter).
Travel Options:
– By bus: Take bus 916 Express from Dongzhimen Station to Huairou, then transfer to a local shuttle.
– By car: Approximately 1.5 hours from Beijing city center.
Nearby Restaurants:
– The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu – Offers farm-to-table Western dishes with a view of the wall.
– Xin Shuang Quan Restaurant – Known for hearty local specialties like rainbow trout and dumplings.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool weather.
2. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
Description: The largest imperial palace in the world, the Forbidden City served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. Today, it houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
History: Built between 1406 and 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, the palace complex spans over 180 acres and consists of nearly 1,000 buildings.
Google Maps Link: Forbidden City
Official Website: Palace Museum Official Site
Ticket Prices: ¥60 (April–October), ¥40 (November–March).
Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm). Closed Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Take Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West Station.
– By taxi: Approximately 30 minutes from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– TRB Forbidden City – Offers contemporary European cuisine with views of the palace walls.
– Beijing Pie – Famous for meat-filled pastries and local comfort food.
Additional Tips: Book tickets online in advance. Allocate at least 3 hours to explore the palace.
3. Tiananmen Square
Description: The largest public square in the world, Tiananmen Square is a historic and cultural landmark surrounded by key attractions, including the Forbidden City, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.
History: Originally built in 1415 and expanded in the 1950s, the square has witnessed pivotal events in Chinese history, including the proclamation of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
Google Maps Link: Tiananmen Square
Ticket Prices: Free entry; nearby attractions have separate fees.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; the flag-raising ceremony occurs at sunrise.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West Station.
– By taxi: Accessible from anywhere in Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant – A must-visit for Beijing’s famous Peking Duck.
– Na Jia Xiao Guan – Serves traditional Manchu cuisine.
Additional Tips: Arrive early for the flag-raising ceremony, and be mindful of security checks.
4. Temple of Heaven (Tiantan Park)
Description: A sprawling imperial complex where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties prayed for good harvests. The Temple of Heaven is known for its circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a masterpiece of Ming architecture.
History: Built in 1420, the temple reflects ancient Chinese cosmology, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth.
Google Maps Link: Temple of Heaven
Ticket Prices: ¥15 for the park; ¥35 for access to the main halls.
Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm (park); 8:00 am – 5:30 pm (main halls).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station.
– By taxi: A 20-minute ride from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Xian Lao Man – Famous for a variety of traditional dumplings.
– Dali Courtyard – Known for its authentic Yunnan-style dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit in the morning to see locals practicing tai chi and playing traditional instruments.
5. The Summer Palace (Yiheyuan)
Description: A stunning imperial garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Summer Palace features scenic lakes, pavilions, and the iconic Longevity Hill. It’s a serene escape from the bustling city.
History: Built in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty, the Summer Palace was used as a royal retreat. It was reconstructed in 1888 after being damaged during the Second Opium War.
Google Maps Link: Summer Palace
Official Website: Summer Palace Official Site
Ticket Prices: ¥30 (off-season), ¥60 (peak season). Combo tickets for additional areas are available for ¥50–¥80.
Opening Hours: 6:30 am – 8:00 pm (April–October); 7:00 am – 7:00 pm (November–March).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 4 to Beigongmen Station.
– By taxi: Approximately 40 minutes from downtown Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Lotus in Moonlight – Serves refined Chinese cuisine in a peaceful lakeside setting.
– Tongheju – Known for traditional dishes like braised pork and mapo tofu.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and allocate at least half a day to explore the vast grounds.
Travel Tips:
SEO Optimization: Use keywords like “Top attractions in Beijing,” “Things to do in Beijing,” and “Beijing travel guide.” Include alt text for images with descriptive phrases like “Great Wall of China at Mutianyu” and “Forbidden City aerial view.”
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer pleasant weather.
Local Cuisine to Try: Peking Duck, jianbing (savory Chinese crepes), and zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste).
6. The National Museum of China
Description: One of the world’s largest museums, the National Museum of China showcases the country’s rich history, culture, and art through its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
History: Established in 2003 by merging the Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution, this museum spans over 5,000 years of Chinese civilization.
Google Maps Link: National Museum of China
Official Website: National Museum of China
Ticket Prices: Free entry, but advance booking is required.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm); closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 1 to Tiananmen East Station.
– By taxi: Located near Tiananmen Square, easily accessible.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Capital M – Offers upscale dining with European-inspired dishes and views of Tiananmen Square.
– Made in China – Known for its Peking Duck and dumplings.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore. Bring your passport for entry, as it’s required for ticket booking.
7. Beihai Park
Description: A tranquil imperial garden with a history spanning over 1,000 years, Beihai Park features a serene lake, pavilions, and the iconic White Dagoba perched on Qionghua Island.
History: Originally built during the Liao Dynasty (916–1125 AD), the park served as a royal retreat and showcases classic Chinese garden design.
Google Maps Link: Beihai Park
Ticket Prices: ¥5 for entry; additional fees for attractions within the park.
Opening Hours: 6:30 am – 8:00 pm (April–October); 6:30 am – 7:00 pm (November–March).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 6 to Beihai North Station.
– By taxi: A 15-minute ride from Tiananmen Square.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Li Qun Roast Duck Restaurant – Known for its authentic Peking Duck.
– TRB Hutong – Offers fine dining with a blend of European and Chinese flavors.
Additional Tips: Rent a paddleboat to explore the lake and visit during spring for blooming lotus flowers.
8. The Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple)
Description: A Tibetan Buddhist temple renowned for its exquisite architecture, vibrant colors, and the impressive 26-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue carved from a single piece of sandalwood.
History: Built in 1694 during the Qing Dynasty, the Lama Temple served as the residence of a prince before being converted into a monastery in 1744.
Google Maps Link: Lama Temple
Ticket Prices: ¥25 for entry.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 2 or Line 5 to Yonghegong Lama Temple Station.
– By taxi: About 20 minutes from downtown Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– King’s Joy – A Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in vegetarian cuisine.
– Xinjiang Red Rose Restaurant – Offers flavorful lamb skewers and naan bread.
Additional Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
9. The Hutongs of Beijing
Description: The Hutongs are narrow alleys and traditional courtyard homes that offer a glimpse into old Beijing’s way of life. Popular hutong areas include Nanluoguxiang and Dongcheng District.
History: Dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), the hutongs were once residential areas for imperial officials and merchants. Today, many have been preserved and modernized as cultural hubs.
Google Maps Link: Nanluoguxiang Hutong
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; some tours may have fees.
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but shops and cafes operate from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 6 to Nanluoguxiang Station.
– By bike: Rent a bike for a more immersive experience.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mr. Shi’s Dumplings – Famous for handmade dumplings with various fillings.
– Wenyu Cheese Shop – A local favorite for Beijing-style milk cakes.
Additional Tips: Take a guided rickshaw tour to learn about the history and stories of the hutongs.
10. The Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb)
Description: The final resting place of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty, the Ming Tombs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for their grand architecture and historical significance. The Changling Tomb, the most visited, is the burial site of Emperor Yongle.
History: Construction of the tombs began in 1409, reflecting traditional Feng Shui principles and imperial grandeur.
Google Maps Link: Ming Tombs
Ticket Prices: ¥45 for Changling Tomb; combo tickets for multiple tombs available.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm.
Travel Options:
– By bus: Take Bus 872 from Deshengmen to the tombs.
– By taxi: Approximately 1 hour from downtown Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Jinyuan Restaurant – Offers local Beijing dishes like zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste).
– Xibei Youmiancun – Known for hearty northwestern Chinese cuisine.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to the Great Wall (Mutianyu section) for a full day of exploration.
Travel Tips:
Best Times to Visit: The Lama Temple and Beihai Park are best visited in the morning for a quieter experience, while the hutongs come alive in the evening.
Transportation: Use Beijing’s efficient metro system or taxis for convenience. Guided tours are recommended for the Ming Tombs.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample dumplings, noodles, and Beijing-style snacks near these attractions for a flavorful culinary experience.
11. 798 Art District
Description: A vibrant hub for contemporary art, 798 Art District is filled with galleries, cafes, and shops housed in a former industrial complex. It’s a favorite spot for art enthusiasts and photographers.
History: The area was originally a factory complex built in the 1950s with East German design. In the early 2000s, it was transformed into an art district, now representing Beijing’s modern creative culture.
Google Maps Link: 798 Art District
Ticket Prices: Free entry to the district; some galleries charge a small fee.
Opening Hours: Generally open from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, but individual galleries may vary.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 14 to Jiangtai Station, then a short taxi ride or walk.
– By taxi: Approximately 30 minutes from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Timezone 8 – Offers Western-style comfort food and coffee.
– At Café – Known for its light meals and desserts, set in a cozy atmosphere.
Additional Tips: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and check out temporary exhibits in smaller galleries.
12. Zhongshan Park
Description: A serene park adjacent to the Forbidden City, Zhongshan Park is known for its ancient cypress trees, beautiful gardens, and the historic Altar of Earth and Harvests.
History: Originally an imperial garden during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, it was converted into a public park in 1914 and named after Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan), a prominent revolutionary leader.
Google Maps Link: Zhongshan Park
Ticket Prices: ¥3 for park entry; ¥10 for special exhibitions.
Opening Hours: 6:30 am – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 1 to Tiananmen West Station.
– By taxi: A short ride from downtown Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– TRB Forbidden City – Offers gourmet European dining with scenic views.
– Old Beijing Zhajiangmian – Serves Beijing’s signature zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste).
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with a trip to Tiananmen Square or the Forbidden City.
13. The National Stadium (Bird’s Nest)
Description: This architectural marvel, known as the Bird’s Nest, was the main stadium for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. It is now a popular landmark and hosts events, concerts, and exhibitions.
History: Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, the stadium symbolizes China’s entry into the global stage of modern architecture and sports.
Google Maps Link: National Stadium
Ticket Prices: ¥50 for an interior tour; fees vary for events.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (tour hours).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 8 to Olympic Sports Center Station.
– By taxi: About 30 minutes from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– The Georg – Offers Nordic-inspired fine dining near the Olympic Park.
– Haidilao Hot Pot – Known for its interactive dining experience and delicious hot pot.
Additional Tips: Visit at night to see the stadium beautifully illuminated.
14. The Summer Palace (Kunming Lake Boating)
Description: The Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but one of its highlights is boating on Kunming Lake, offering a tranquil way to explore this imperial retreat.
History: Built during the Qing Dynasty, the Summer Palace served as a luxurious escape for emperors. Kunming Lake was designed to mimic West Lake in Hangzhou.
Google Maps Link: Summer Palace – Kunming Lake
Ticket Prices: Boating costs ¥40-¥120, depending on the type of boat.
Opening Hours: 6:30 am – 8:00 pm (April–October); 7:00 am – 7:00 pm (November–March).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 4 to Beigongmen Station.
– By taxi: About 40 minutes from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Zijinge – Offers traditional Chinese dishes in an elegant setting.
– Lotus in Moonlight – Known for its lakeside dining and Chinese tea.
Additional Tips: Visit in the afternoon for a relaxing boat ride and sunset views.
15. Jingshan Park
Description: Located directly north of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park is famous for its hilltop pavilion offering one of the best panoramic views of Beijing.
History: The artificial hill in the park was created using soil excavated from the construction of the Forbidden City’s moat during the Ming Dynasty. It was an imperial garden for centuries.
Google Maps Link: Jingshan Park
Ticket Prices: ¥2 for entry.
Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 6 to Beihai North Station.
– By taxi: A short ride from the Forbidden City.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Fangshan Restaurant – Serves imperial-style Chinese cuisine.
– Beiping Lou – Known for its traditional Beijing hotpot.
Additional Tips: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and to see locals practicing tai chi.
Travel Tips:
Best Times to Visit: Morning for Jingshan Park and Zhongshan Park; late afternoon or evening for the Bird’s Nest and 798 Art District.
Transportation: Use Beijing’s metro for cost-effective travel. Combine nearby attractions like Jingshan Park and the Forbidden City for an efficient itinerary.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample hot pot, zhajiangmian, and Beijing-style desserts near these locations for a full culinary experience.
16. Wangfujing Street
Description: A bustling shopping street in central Beijing, Wangfujing is famous for its blend of luxury malls, local shops, and the vibrant Night Market offering a wide range of street food delicacies.
History: Wangfujing has been a commercial hub for over a century, dating back to the Qing Dynasty, and remains a favorite destination for locals and tourists.
Google Maps Link: Wangfujing Street
Ticket Prices: Free to explore; food and shopping prices vary.
Opening Hours: Shops: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm; Night Market: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 1 to Wangfujing Station.
– By taxi: Located in central Beijing, easily accessible.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant – Famous for its traditional Peking Duck.
– Dong Lai Shun – Known for its hot pot with mutton.
Additional Tips: Bring cash for street food vendors, and visit in the evening for the lively atmosphere.
17. Temple of Confucius (Kong Miao)
Description: The second largest Confucian temple in China, the Temple of Confucius is a tranquil place where scholars once paid tribute to Confucius. It features beautiful courtyards and ancient steles.
History: Built in 1302 during the Yuan Dynasty, the temple has been a center of Confucian culture for centuries.
Google Maps Link: Temple of Confucius
Ticket Prices: ¥30 for entry.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (closed on Mondays).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 2 or Line 5 to Yonghegong Lama Temple Station.
– By taxi: About 20 minutes from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– King’s Joy – A Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant offering refined Chinese dishes.
– Hani Gejiu – Serves authentic Yunnan cuisine, including dishes like crossing-the-bridge noodles.
Additional Tips: Pair your visit with the nearby Lama Temple for a cultural day trip.
18. Beijing Zoo
Description: Home to over 450 species, including the famous giant pandas, Beijing Zoo offers an opportunity to see wildlife from China and around the world. The zoo’s gardens and historic pavilions add to its charm.
History: Founded in 1906, the zoo is one of the oldest in China and features traditional Chinese landscaping alongside animal exhibits.
Google Maps Link: Beijing Zoo
Ticket Prices: ¥15 for entry; ¥20 for Panda House.
Opening Hours: 7:30 am – 5:00 pm (summer); 7:30 am – 4:30 pm (winter).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 4 to Beijing Zoo Station.
– By taxi: A 20-minute ride from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Zhou Mama Hotpot – Known for its flavorful hot pot.
– Yuxin Sichuan Dish – Offers spicy Sichuan specialties.
Additional Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds, especially at the Panda House.
19. Capital Museum
Description: A modern museum showcasing Beijing’s history, culture, and art through interactive exhibits and extensive collections of ancient artifacts.
History: Opened in 1981, the museum highlights Beijing’s cultural evolution, with artifacts spanning over 3,000 years.
Google Maps Link: Capital Museum
Official Website: Capital Museum
Ticket Prices: Free entry, but advance reservations are required.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm); closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 1 or Line 16 to Muxidi Station.
– By taxi: Located near the city center, easily accessible.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Jindingxuan – Known for its dim sum and Cantonese cuisine.
– Huguosi Snacks – Offers Beijing-style street food and small plates.
Additional Tips: Allocate 2–3 hours for your visit. Bring your passport for entry.
20. The Drum and Bell Towers
Description: Located in a historic square, the Drum and Bell Towers were once used to keep time in ancient Beijing. Visitors can climb the towers for panoramic views of the surrounding hutongs.
History: Built during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), the towers played an essential role in Beijing’s daily life until the advent of modern timekeeping.
Google Maps Link: Drum and Bell Towers
Ticket Prices: ¥20 for entry to each tower.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Line 8 to Shichahai Station.
– By taxi: A short ride from central Beijing.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Mr. Shi’s Dumplings – Offers handmade dumplings with various fillings.
– Cafe Zarah – Known for its coffee and light snacks in a relaxed atmosphere.
Additional Tips: Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby hutongs for a full historical experience.
Travel Tips:
Best Times to Visit: Visit Wangfujing Street in the evening for the vibrant Night Market, and explore the Temple of Confucius in the morning for a peaceful experience.
Transportation: Beijing’s metro system is efficient for these attractions, but taxis are convenient for shorter distances.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample Peking Duck, hot pot, and Beijing-style snacks like candied hawthorn skewers near these locations.
