Top Things to Do in Beijing: Frommer's Recommendations

Beijing, China's capital city, is a bustling metropolis rich in history, culture, and modern advancements. As one of the world's most popular travel destinations, Beijing offers visitors a blend of ancient landmarks, modern architecture, and vibrant culture. Here are some top things to do in Beijing, curated from Frommer's expert recommendations.

1. Visit the Great Wall of China The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Built over 2,000 years ago to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire, the wall stretches more than 13,000 miles. The Mutianyu section is highly recommended for its well-preserved architecture and stunning scenery. Visitors can hike the wall, take a cable car, or even ride a toboggan down. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Beijing, providing a great sense of the historical significance of the wall as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Explore the Forbidden City The Forbidden City was the imperial palace of China's emperors for over 500 years. As the largest ancient palatial structure in the world, it boasts remarkable architecture and thousands of historical artifacts. The palace has over 9,000 rooms, with stunning details in each hall and courtyard. Visitors can immerse themselves in Chinese history, art, and culture as they wander through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tip: Plan at least half a day to explore, as the palace grounds are extensive.

3. Walk Through Tiananmen Square Just across from the Forbidden City is Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. This site holds significant historical and political importance, serving as the location of numerous events, including the famous 1989 student protests. The square is surrounded by key landmarks, including the Monument to the People's Heroes, Mao Zedong's Mausoleum, and the Great Hall of the People. It's a great starting point for a day of sightseeing in Beijing, allowing visitors to absorb the weight of China's modern history.

4. Relax at the Summer Palace The Summer Palace is an extraordinary example of Chinese landscape gardening, blending natural beauty with man-made structures. Located on the outskirts of Beijing, this palace was the retreat for the emperors during the hot summer months. Its serene setting by Kunming Lake, with bridges, temples, and pavilions, makes it a perfect place for a relaxing day trip. Visitors can take a boat ride, walk along the Long Corridor, and visit the Tower of Buddhist Incense for panoramic views of the entire complex.

5. Discover the Temple of Heaven The Temple of Heaven is a grand complex that was used by emperors for religious ceremonies to pray for good harvests. Built in the 15th century, the temple is a prime example of traditional Chinese architecture. Visitors can admire the stunning Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, with its striking blue roof and intricate carvings. Surrounding the temple are beautifully landscaped gardens, which are popular spots for locals practicing tai chi and flying kites.

6. Walk through the Hutongs Beijing’s hutongs, or narrow alleys, provide a glimpse into the city’s traditional way of life. These winding streets are lined with siheyuan, traditional courtyard houses. Visitors can take a rickshaw tour through the hutongs, visit local markets, and even stop at a tea house for a traditional tea ceremony. The hutongs offer a stark contrast to Beijing’s modern skyscrapers, showcasing the city’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. Exploring these alleys is an immersive experience that brings to life the rhythm of daily life in Beijing’s older neighborhoods.

7. Experience Peking Opera No trip to Beijing is complete without experiencing Peking Opera, one of China’s most famous cultural performances. Combining singing, dancing, acrobatics, and elaborate costumes, Peking Opera tells stories of Chinese folklore, history, and mythology. The performances are rich in symbolism, with each gesture and expression holding significance. The Liyuan Theatre is a popular venue where visitors can enjoy this traditional art form. Tip: English subtitles are often provided to help visitors understand the storyline.

8. Climb Jingshan Park for Panoramic Views For those looking to capture stunning views of the Forbidden City and the rest of Beijing, Jingshan Park is the ideal spot. This man-made hill sits just north of the Forbidden City and offers a panoramic view of the palace grounds, particularly stunning at sunset. The park is also a serene place to stroll, with pavilions and ancient trees scattered throughout. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Beijing and a great location for photographers.

9. Shop at Wangfujing Street If you’re interested in shopping, Wangfujing Street is the place to go. This bustling pedestrian street is lined with both modern shopping malls and traditional stores selling everything from silk to jade. Wangfujing is also famous for its night market, where adventurous foodies can try a variety of street food, including skewered scorpions and fried insects. For those looking for more conventional fare, there are plenty of restaurants offering delicious Peking duck and other traditional dishes.

10. Tour the National Museum of China History buffs will enjoy a visit to the National Museum of China, located near Tiananmen Square. This massive museum houses millions of artifacts, covering Chinese history from prehistoric times to the modern era. Exhibits include ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and revolutionary memorabilia. The museum provides an excellent overview of China’s long and complex history, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the country.

Tips for Visiting Beijing:

• The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
• Be sure to use public transportation, especially the subway, to get around efficiently.
• English signage is common in tourist areas, but it's helpful to have a translation app on hand for more local experiences.

Visiting Beijing is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique mix of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern wonders. Whether you're exploring the Great Wall or walking through centuries-old hutongs, there is no shortage of things to do in this dynamic city.