Beijing, the lively capital of China, is a must-visit place for travelers. It offers rich history, beautiful buildings, and a lively culture.
This city has something for everyone. You can explore ancient palaces.
You can walk by one of the Seven Wonders. You can also visit local neighborhoods. Let’s dive into all the incredible things you can see and do during your Beijing city tour.
Exploring the Iconic Forbidden City in Beijing
No visit to Beijing is complete without stepping into the heart of Chinese history—the Forbidden City. This grand palace was home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. One of the largest and best-preserved wooden structures in the world.
Why Do They Call It the Forbidden City?
The term "Forbidden City" indicates that officials strictly controlled entry into the palace. Only the emperor, his family, and a select group of servants could enter. Authorities forbade ordinary citizens from entering, which is why people referred to it as "forbidden."
What is the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City is a sprawling complex of nearly 1,000 buildings, located in the center of Beijing. The imperial palace served as such for nearly 500 years. Now, it is home to the Palace Museum, which displays treasures from China’s imperial history.
How Big is the Forbidden City?
Covering over 180 acres, the Forbidden City is huge. It consists of 980 buildings and over 8,000 rooms, making it one of the largest palace complexes in the world. Walking through its gates feels like stepping into a world of imperial grandeur and ancient secrets.
Experience the Charm of Beijing’s Hutongs
The hutongs of Beijing are narrow, traditional alleyways that offer a glimpse into the city’s old-world charm. These ancient neighborhoods, with their courtyards and communal living spaces, date back to the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties.
Hutong Tour Beijing: A Unique Journey Through History
Taking a Hutong tour in Beijing is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture. A local guide will take you through these winding alleys. They will show you traditional homes, old temples, and small local shops. You’ll experience the Beijing that few modern visitors get to see.
The Great Wall of China: A Must-See Attraction
No trip to Beijing would be complete without visiting the Great Wall of China. Stretching over 13,000 miles, builders constructed this ancient wonder to protect China from invasions. Today, it is one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
Great Wall of China Beijing Tour: A Historical Exploration
When in Beijing, you can visit some of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall, such as Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling. These areas provide stunning views of the nearby mountains and the famous wall. A must-see for history lovers and adventurers.
Why Was the Great Wall of China Built?
How Long to Build the Great Wall of China
Construction of the Great Wall took more than 2,000 years, with different sections built by various Chinese dynasties. The builders completed the most famous sections during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), taking about 200 years.
Where is the Great Wall of China?
The Great Wall spans northern China, but tourists find the most popular and accessible sections near Beijing. Whether you’re visiting the Wall at Badaling or Mutianyu, you're in for a treat.
How Long to Walk the Great Wall of China?
Walking the Great Wall is an unforgettable experience, but it’s not a quick one! The length of time it takes depends on which section you visit. A short walk at Badaling takes about an hour. If you plan to hike the longer sections, you may walk for several hours.
Where Does the Great Wall of China End?
The Great Wall starts in the east at the Bohai Sea and stretches all the way to the Gobi Desert in the west. The areas near Beijing are some of the most famous and easy to reach. However, the Wall goes across a large part of northern China.
Other Unmissable Attractions in Beijing
Beyond the Forbidden City and Great Wall, Beijing is packed with other incredible sights. If you have the time, make sure to visit these iconic locations:
- Summer Palace: Get away from the busy city at the Summer Palace. A large garden and lake area exists just outside the city center.
- Temple of Heaven: This stunning temple, where emperors once prayed for good harvests, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Tiananmen Square is important in history. This large public square has been the site of many key events in China’s modern history.
How to Plan Your Beijing City Tour
Now that you know the must-see sights in Beijing, it’s time to plan your visit.
Best Time to Visit Beijing
The best times to visit Beijing are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and you can avoid the intense summer heat and the cold winter temperatures.
Duration of Stay: How Long Should You Spend in Beijing?
To explore the major attractions, 4 to 5 days is ideal. You can explore the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Summer Palace, and more at a relaxed pace because you have enough time.
Transportation Tips for Getting Around Beijing
Beijing’s public transportation system, including buses, subways, and taxis, is easy to navigate. To have more flexibility, think about hiring a local guide for your tours. This is especially helpful if you visit places like the Great Wall or the Hutongs.
Beijing’s Culinary Delights
After a day of sightseeing, treat your taste buds to Beijing’s famous cuisine.
Peking Duck: A Culinary Experience
Peking Duck is a must-try dish when in Beijing. This dish often features crispy skin and tender meat, and people serve it with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and fresh vegetables. A true Beijing delicacy exists.
Local Street Food and Snacks You Must Try
Beijing’s street food scene is bustling with flavors. Don’t miss out on snacks like jianbing (savory crepes), baozi (steamed buns), and tanghulu (candied fruit skewers).
