Top 15 Places to Visit in Beijing: Must-See Tourist Attractions

There’s no denying that Beijing is the capital of China and where ancient innovations meet the kingdom’s ageless history and art. Centrally located in China, Beijing is a mesmerizing metropolis that boasts an irresistible fusion of cultural abodes, historical sites, and fast-paced city life, making China a magnet for countless tourists. In this article, we will explore some of the vital tourist attractions in the city. This guide has everything from the breathtaking Great Wall to The Ming Dynasty’s Forbidden City. For history enthusiasts, culture lovers, or someone just wanting to marvel at beautiful places, this guide helps you orient yourself in Beijing. Now, let’s delve into the fascinating wonders that Beijing has to offer.

What Are the Top Attractions in Beijing?

What Are the Top Attractions in Beijing

The Frontier City

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forbidden City is a highly reputable Chinese imperial palace and a meticulously structured castle that has existed for nearly 500 years. Its architectural details and historical importance make it ideal for a vacation spot.

The Great Wall of China

One of the most important landmarks in the world, the Great Wall, has astonishing views and illustrates China’s ancient martial arts. In particular, The Mutianyu and Badaling sections boast more visitors who are interested in these sections.

Tiananmen Square

Located at the epicenter of Beijing, modern-day China has designated this square as its icon. Alongside the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong is also a cultural landmark that people frequent.

Temple of Heaven

What used to be ancient worship temples dedicated to emperors are now integrated into this complex, which incorporates ancient Chinese structures and landscapes to provide good harvests. This is ideal for history lovers as it is a key growth point for traditional architecture.

Summer Palace

While still an imperial palace, the stunning lakes, pavilions, and bridges, along with the traditional Chinese landscaping, represent the crown of artistry during the blooming period of the Qing dynasty.

These are glimpses of Beijing’s focal points in terms of rich history, festivals, and scenic beauty.

Why Visit the Forbidden City?

The Splendid Palace, also known as the Forbidden City, is a stunning piece of Chinese history. It served as an imperial palace for nearly five centuries, while its layout symbolizes the rigorous traditional Chinese building structures. Its meticulous construction makes it stand out as the world’s largest palace structure, further complemented by its 980 buildings and 8700 rooms, making it approximately 180 acres wide. Tourists and visitors around the globe are attracted to its supreme hall and iconic Meridian Gate. In addition to the breathtaking architecture, the golden city houses many historical artifacts. Items such as paintings, ceramics, and other imperial treasures the Golden City holds are splendid pieces of Chinese craftsmanship completed over centuries. This site, which is noted as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is outstanding in showcasing the remains and lavish aspects of Imperial China aside from being a cultural and architectural masterpiece.

What Makes the Great Wall of China a Must-See?

The Great Wall of China is an excellent example of a symbol of China’s fortitude, architectural mastery, and traditions. Serving an original intent of shielding the Chinese states and empires from malicious attacks, this ancient marvel stretches over 13,000 miles (21,196 kilometers) across mountains, plains, deserts, and rugged terrains. It has now been categorized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also goes beyond being just a defensive structure since it showcases the extensive works of various dynasties, primarily the Qin (221–206 BCE) and Ming (1368–1644 CE) dynasties.

Some important features that add to the Great Wall’s charm include spectacular views and architectural diversity. It contains sections constructed from different materials like tamped earth, stone, and bricks, which give it a unique adaption that depends on the region’s geography. The closely located Badaling and Mutianyu sections near Beijing are known for being the most stunning and easily accessible sections of the wall. Moreover, iconic structures, such as beacon towers and watchtowers, beautifully blend the wall’s strategic purpose and intricate design details.

As much cultural wonder as a place has, so does the Great Wall. The construction has walls approximately 20-23 feet tall (6-7 meters) and 21 feet (6.5) wide at the base. It is a remarkable construction in terms of precision and durability. The Great Wall is worth visiting as it provides a once-in-a-lifetime historical experience. It blends with nature beautifully, and it’s a sight everyone needs to see.

How Does the Temple of Heaven Reflect Chinese Culture?

With its deep spirit, symbolic motives, fabulous architecture, and historical value, the Temple of Heaven reveals the culture of China. Constructed in the Ming Dynasty, where emperors worshiped in the hope of a good harvest, it showcases the intertwining of agriculture with spirituality. Its circular and square shapes represent heaven and earth, which, to ancient Chinese cosmology, are believed to be unified. Essential attributes include the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a wooden building that stands 36 meters tall and is famed for its impressive construction, as it was built without using nails. The Echo Wall, which amplifies sound, further boasts remarkable craftsmanship.

How to Plan a Trip to Beijing?

How to Plan a Trip to Beijing

Thorough research is paramount to ensure a memorable trip to Beijing. Visiting in the spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) is highly recommended due to the moderate weather and less crowded locations. Travelers are advised to get a valid Chinese visa in advance, as it is required for most international travelers. Major attractions that should be part of any itinerary and are recommended include the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven. Finding rooms in central locations such as Dongcheng and Chaoyang is recommended. As a bonus, the many transportation options, including the efficient Beijing subways and taxis, allow flexible booking. Therefore, guides can be hired to provide personal tours around the city. Finally, comfortable shoes and clothes that work for varied weather should be packed for an easy and enjoyable time in this fascinating ancient city.

What to Know Before You Travel to Beijing?

1. Visa Requirements

Travelers should note that everyone requires a visa to enter China. Apply for a tourist visa (L type) at your local Chinese embassy or consulate. The processing time averages between four and ten working days but may vary.

2. Currency and Payment Methods

In China, payment methods include mobile platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Payment and the Chinese Yuan (CNY), the main currency. It is recommended that you use cash and international credit or debit cards.

3. Language

Learning the local language would make a trip much more uncomplicated. Knowing basic phrases or having a translation app is particularly helpful in Mandarin.

4. Health and Safety

Beijing is a generally safe place with a few things to note. Always be aware of your possessions in public spaces and check the vaccination for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Having a travel insurance plan is always good as well.

5. Climate and Best Time to Visit

For the seasons, April/May and September/October are preferable for travel. Beijings summers are also pretty hot, averaging around 86 degrees fahrenheit, while winters can get down to 14 degrees fahrenheit.

6. Internet Access

In China, international apps such as Facebook are blocked without a VPN. To continue uninterrupted use of apps and sites, purchase a reliable VPN before entering China.

7. Emergency Contacts

• • • Police: 110
    • Fire Department: 119
    • Ambulance: 120

If the trip details are prepared with points covered in the article, typing “Beijing” on the map would be an incredible experience.

How Can You Make the Most of Your Day Trip in Beijing?

To enjoy a day trip to Beijing, start as early as possible to maximize time and plan an itinerary based on the city’s highlights.

1. Explore the Forbidden City

The day should start at the breathtaking Forbidden City. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an impressive example of imperial architecture. Allocate 2-3 hours to explore its massive halls, gardens, and other intricate details. Tickets cost around 60 Yuan (~8 Dollars) during the peak season, and due to its popularity, it is better to book online beforehand.

2. Visit Tiananmen Square

Just outside of the Forbidden City lies Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world. Spend around 30 minutes here, where you can visit the surroundings and learn about the history by visiting landmarks like the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

3. Climb the Great Wall of China (Mutianyu Section)

The Mutianyu ‘section’ of the Great Wall is recommended for seeing fewer people with equally breathtaking views. It is around 1.5 hours from central Beijing, so plan to spend half a day there, including travel time. A cable car can ascend (120 Yuen or 16 Dollars round trip), and you can walk back or enjoy an incredible toboggan ride down.

4. Savor Local Cuisine

A must-do in Beijing is to try Peking Duck and eat from local food stalls. Book a table at Da Dong Roast Duck for a sit-down meal, or head to Wangfujing Snack Street for a quick snack. Remember to set aside 1-2 hours to enjoy your meal properly.

5. Relax at the Summer Palace

If time allows, end your day at the tranquil Summer Palace, where stunning gardens and lakes await. Take a leisurely 1-2 hour walk along the Long Corridor, or enjoy a boat ride on the peaceful Kunming Lake. Admission is ¥30-¥60 ($4-8) depending on the time of year.

If these locations are at the top of your list and you manage your time wisely, your day trip to Beijing should be enjoyable and easy. If you wish to travel between different suburbs, try using the very efficient subway system (fares range from ¥3-¥10/$0.40-$1.40) or hire a car for more comfort.

What Are the Best Times to Visit Beijing?

The ideal time to visit Beijing is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During those seasons, visitors appreciate pleasant weather with mild temperatures, clear skies, and low pollution levels, making outdoor activities much more enjoyable. In spring, the average temperature falls between 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F), while autumn offers a similar average between 10°C to 24°C (50°F to 75°F). Beijing tends to have scorching summers with temperatures exceeding 32°C (90°F) and freezing winters that often reach below zero, making these periods more optimal. If you want to avoid peak crowding, consider visiting late March or Late October when the number of tourists tends to be lower.

What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in Beijing?

What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in Beijing

Every traveler has a wish list of places and landmarks they want to explore and enjoy. These include areas with respectable and scenic history and places that offer something cultural. Sections like the Mutianyu Wall provide an eye-catching view of ancient Chinese engineering, whereas the summer palace offers a beautiful garden and Christmas hall. The terminal square and other historical places hold high cultural poles, which are magnified by the elegant architecture of the case. If you want to appreciate culture and art, the 798 Art District is the place to be, as it exhibits modern art and bohemian culture.

Why Is the Summer Palace a Top Attraction?

The Summer Palace is famous for its unique combination of nature, traditional Chinese buildings, and history. It is approximately 742.8 acres or 3 square kilometers in size and contains the stunning Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, which have breathtaking scenic views. The Summer Palace was once used as a royal retreat. It is an ideal Chinese garden featuring countless natural elements integrated with pavilions, bridges, and walkways. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a treasured cultural document featuring thousands of years of art and craftsmanship. Many people describe The Summer Palace as peaceful and tranquil, making it a perfect getaway from the fast-paced life of Beijing.

What Can You Explore at Tiananmen Square?

Tiananmen Square is located at the center of Beijing and is one of the longest public squares, with 109 acres. The Square contains many important historical and cultural landmarks. These include the deep south Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, where his preserved body is displayed, which means south visitors can seek out the Tiananmen Gate, which rests north of the square and serves as the entrance to the Forbidden City and Great Hall of the People situated west, which is used as an assemble hall for the national legislature. The central point of the square is guarded by a large granite monument encompassing the great struggles in the history of China.

On the square’s east side, the National Museum of China houses various artifacts and implements showcasing China’s history and art. At the same time, the area surrounding the museum has been known to have political importance. Due to the landmark’s significance, the square witnesses tremendous flag-hoisting and lowering ceremonies every day at sunrise and sunset. This astonishing square with a rich history captures millions of visitors annually, leaving them stunned and with a deeper understanding of China’s history and today’s changes.

What to Expect at the National Museum of China?

Like any other tourist attraction, I must prepare myself to be overwhelmed by the crowds when I visit the National Museum of China. My first impression is admitting to myself and others that I do not know where to begin exploring what is hailed as one of the world’s most complete and significant museums. They proudly claim that their collection of over 1.4 million artifacts is interlaced with thousands of years of history and culture of China. An illustrative example is a Simuwu Ding, the most significant ancient bronze vessel ever made, and the famous Han Dynasty jade suits. With so many exhibits, from prehistoric periods to modern jade relics and bronze works, intricate porcelain pieces, and famous paintings, this museum has something for everyone. They have made different halls for various topics like timelines, art, and critical political events, which help organize the collection.

Key Details:

• Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (closed on Mondays, the last admission at 4 PM)
• Location: No.16 East Chang’an Avenue, Dongcheng District, Beijing
• Admission: Free entry, but online reservation is required
• Visitor Tips: Plan bare minimum 2-3 hours, wear comfy shoes, and be prepared to navigate because some parts may have special exhibitions that require extra tickets.

The National Museum of China is one of, if not the most important, sites in understanding China and its fascinating civilization.

What Are the Unique Experiences Around Beijing?

What Are the Unique Experiences Around Beijing

When it comes to dining, it’s hard to beat the flavorful delights of Beijing, where one can feast on a hearty plate of Peking duck. As for nature lovers, the summer palace offers peaceful walks around the lakes and impressive gardens. For history lovers, both Badaling and Mutianyu are great choices if one seeks to witness the awe-inspiring wall of China. Being one of the most modern marveled places on earth, the 798 art district speaks for itself when it comes to modern-day art, but if one wishes to witness the local culture, one should stroll through the outskirts of Hutongs.

Why Should You Explore Beijing Hutong?

Bejing’s hutongs serve as a juxtaposition to the modernized parts of the city, and they explain the history and culture of the city. These alleys surrounding the siheyuan or courtyard houses are reminiscent of the olden times of Beijing and allow a glimpse into how the locals lived for hundreds of years. Walking through the hutongs is more than a mere tourism activity; instead, it is an opportunity to view how lifestyles are preserved in a city that is changing at a supersonic pace. Hutongs were constructed during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties and represent a perfect example of communal living as there is an emphasis on the need for functionality within the architectural design. Iconic hutongs, such as Yandaixiejie or Nanluoguxiang, mix vibrant local stores, charming cafes, and local history to enjoy modernized and ancient cultures.

What Wildlife Can You See at the Beijing Zoo?

Beijing Zoo has wildlife exhibitions with more than 450 animal species and houses over 5,000 individual animals. One of the most famous residents is the giant panda, a symbol of wildlife conservation efforts in China. Other breathtaking creatures include Siberian tigers, golden monkeys, red-crowned cranes, and the critically endangered South China tiger. The zoo also has an aquarium displaying beluga whales and sea turtles. The zoo has set aside 89 acres to create a natural setting for the animals’ health and visitors’ experience.

How Is the Beijing Olympic Park a Modern Marvel?

A true wonder of the world, The Beijing Olympic Park combines modern architecture and functional designs that aid sustainability and culture. Such remarkable innovation and engineering are evident from the detailed structures like the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). The Bird’s Nest uses over 42,000 tons of steel for its lattice structure, making it visually stunning without compromising function. The Water Cube is also lovely with its energy-efficient design using ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) for its facade, allowing sunlight to enter while conserving energy. Spanning a vast area of 1,135 hectares, the park also supports green spaces, public art, and advanced infrastructure such as renewable energy systems, showcasing a strong commitment to environmentally sustainable practices. The seamless combination of technology, art, and eco-friendly planning creates a masterpiece, making the Beijing Olympic Park an awe-inspiring symbol of modern engineering.

How can you experience the history and culture of Beijing?

How can you experience the history and culture of Beijing

To deepen your understanding of Beijing’s vibrant culture and history, start with the Forbidden City. It was formerly known as The Palace Museum and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing China’s imperial history. Walking on Hutongs, the traditional narrow streets, offers an unparalleled window to local life and a glimpse of architecture unique to Beijing. The Temple of Heaven is an ancient Chinese structure and cultural symbol of China. It gives information about ancient religious activities and is a famous landmark. In Beijing, it is a few hours’ drive to the Great Wall of China, where you can see one of the world’s great wonders. Between the historical explorations, one should eat authentic Peking duck or watch a traditional Peking opera performance to immerse themselves in the essence of the city’s culture. The capital of China, Beijing, has many historical and travel sites that help tourists and visitors learn about China’s rich and diverse heritage through its culture and traditions.

How Did the Ming and Qing Dynasties Shape Old Beijing?

The Ming and Qing dynasties notably marked Beijing’s architectural and cultural development. With the initiation of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), Beijing was named the imperial capital, which led to urban planning developments. The city walls, gates, and the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven were built during this era. The advancements were centered around a rich temple design area and town construction walls along with gates, which followed the Confucian principles of balance, symmetry, and a hierarchical organization of space.

The city continued performing as the capital under the Qing dynasty (1644-1912), adding changes and improvements to the town. With the introduction of the Manchu culture, many Ming architectural buildings, such as the Summer Palace, were preserved. During this time, the city became popular with traditional Hutong neighborhoods and the Siheyuan courtyard, which enhanced community life. Both dynasties emphasized the town being a capital of political and socio-cultural activities, making the city historically significant. The meticulous approach of the two dynasties is highlighted through the elaborative symmetrical city urban planning, axial alignment, and local grey bricks.

What Role Does the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests Play in Chinese Tradition?

Found in Beijing, The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests in the Temple of Heaven serves a special significance for the Chinese people for worship and agriculture. Built-in 1420 during the Ming dynasty, it was the center of China’s agricultural life. During ceremonial prayers, emperors prayed for balance between nature and peace and a bountiful harvest. The imperial architecture features essential meanings for the Chinese. An example of this is that its circular roof represents heaven, while the square pillars serving as the base represent earth. This symbolic idea is reflected in ancient Chinese cosmology.

Supporting these characteristics, the Hall is constructed of wood and no nails, which adds to its cultural value. Its intricate carvings of flora depict the blooming seasons every Lunar New Year. The blue glazed tiles on the roof are a magnificent representation of the sky. Domestically and externally, dragons and phoenixes are integrated into the decor, which serves as a means for the rulers’ claim over the people. In this modern age, the Hall serves as a reminder of The Chinese dominance in architecture and agriculture.

Why Is the Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Beijing Significant?