Tiananmen Square : As the heart of Beijing, it is a place where you can feel the grandeur and solemnity of the country. Here, you can watch the flag – raising ceremony, visit the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall.
The Forbidden City (Palace Museum) : The imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, it is one of the largest and most well – preserved wooden – structure ancient buildings in the world. You can appreciate the magnificent architecture, exquisite carvings, and rich cultural relics here.
The Great Wall (Badaling Section) : A symbol of China, the Great Wall is a must – visit for many tourists. The Badaling section is the most famous and well – preserved part, where you can climb the Great Wall and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
The Summer Palace : The largest and best – preserved imperial garden in China, it combines the natural beauty of lakes, mountains, and gardens with the artistic charm of architecture, such as the Long Corridor, the Tower of Buddhist Incense, and the Seventeen – Arch Bridge.
The Temple of Heaven : An important place for the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to offer sacrifices to heaven and pray for good harvests. Its unique architectural style and profound cultural connotations attract a large number of tourists.
Modern Landmarks and Entertainment
The National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) : The main stadium of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, with its unique steel structure and grand appearance, it has become a new landmark of Beijing. You can visit the stadium, watch sports events or concerts here.
The National Aquatics Center (Water Cube) : Adjacent to the Bird’s Nest, it was the main swimming pool of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Now it has been transformed into a large – scale water park, where you can experience various water entertainment projects.
798 Art District : A gathering place for artists and art galleries, here you can appreciate various forms of contemporary art, experience the unique artistic atmosphere, and visit some creative shops and cafes.
Other Attractions
Hutongs and Alleys : Such as Nanluoguxiang and Shichahai, where you can feel the unique charm of old Beijing, experience the local life, and taste various Beijing snacks.
Beijing Zoo : One of the largest zoos in China, with a rich collection of rare animals such as giant pandas, golden monkeys, etc.
Transportation
External Transportation
By Air : Beijing has two major international airports – Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport, with numerous domestic and international flights.
By Train : Beijing has several railway stations, including Beijing Station, Beijing West Station, Beijing South Station, and Beijing North Station, with convenient train services to various parts of the country.
Internal Transportation
Subway : Beijing’s subway network is very developed, covering almost all major attractions and commercial areas. It is the most convenient and fast way to travel.
Bus : There are many bus routes in Beijing, which can reach some areas not covered by the subway, but the bus may be relatively crowded and slow.
Taxi/ Ride – hailing : Taxis and ride – hailing services are convenient and suitable for traveling with more people, carrying luggage, or going to remote areas.
Shared Bicycles : Suitable for short – distance travel, especially for shuttling in hutongs or going to attractions near the subway station.
Accommodation
Downtown and Wangfujing Area : There are many high – end hotels such as Beijing Peninsula Hotel and Beijing Oriental Grand Hyatt Hotel, which are convenient for travel and surrounded by rich food and shopping options.
Near Qianmen : Hotels such as Beijing Qianmen Jianguo Hotel and Orange Crystal Qianmen Hotel are close to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, making it convenient to visit historical sites.
Near Transportation Hubs : Such as hotels around Beijing South Station and Beijing West Station, which are more convenient for travelers who arrive or leave by train.
Itinerary Recommendation
Day 1 : Arrive in Beijing in the morning, go to Tiananmen Square to watch the flag – raising ceremony, then visit the Forbidden City, and in the afternoon, go to Jingshan Park to overlook the panoramic view of the Forbidden City. In the evening, you can walk on Wangfujing Street and taste Beijing snacks.
Day 2 : Go to the Great Wall (Badaling section) in the morning, and return to the city in the afternoon to visit the Olympic Park, where you can visit the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.
Day 3 : Visit the Summer Palace in the morning, and in the afternoon, go to Nanluoguxiang to experience the胡同 culture of old Beijing. In the evening, you can stroll around Shichahai and enjoy the night view of Beijing.
Day 4 : Visit the Temple of Heaven in the morning, and in the afternoon, you can choose to go to the 798 Art District or Beijing环球度假区 according to your interests. In the evening, taste the famous Beijing Zhajiangmian and other特色美食.
Day 5 : Depending on your interests, you can choose to visit the Beijing Zoo or the China Science and Technology Museum in the morning, and in the afternoon, go to the Sanlitun commercial area for shopping and leisure, ending the Beijing trip.
Food Recommendations
Beijing Roast Duck : A must – try dish in Beijing, with crispy skin and tender meat, usually served with pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce.
Zhajiangmian : A traditional Beijing noodle dish with a rich and thick sauce made of soybean paste, minced meat, and various vegetables.
Douzhi and Jianbing : Douzhi is a traditional Beijing drink made of fermented millet, with a unique taste. Jianbing is a kind of pancake filled with eggs, crispy
