Top Beijing Destinations Reviewed

Beijing, China’s vibrant capital, is a city where history and modernity coexist in harmony. From ancient palaces to bustling streets and cultural performances, there’s something for every traveler. In this guide, we review the top Beijing destinations, providing insider tips to help you plan a perfect visit.

The Forbidden City

Overview:
The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, served as the home of Chinese emperors for almost 500 years. Its vast courtyards, ornate halls, and intricate decorations make it a must-see.

Highlights:

Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest hall for imperial ceremonies
Imperial gardens with seasonal flowers and historic pavilions
Palace Museum exhibitions showcasing ancient art and artifacts

Tips:

Allocate at least 3–4 hours to explore thoroughly
Buy tickets online to avoid long queues
Consider a guided tour to understand the history behind each building

The Great Wall of China

Overview:
No trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall. Sections like Mutianyu and Badaling offer breathtaking views and different experiences.

Highlights:

Mutianyu: Fewer crowds, cable car access, and scenic hiking
Badaling: Well-preserved, easy access, family-friendly
Jinshanling: Ideal for hikers seeking a more rugged adventure

Tips:

Wear comfortable shoes; some sections are steep
Bring water and snacks for longer hikes
Sunrise or sunset visits provide stunning photo opportunities

Summer Palace

Overview:
The Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape architecture, featuring lakes, gardens, and temples. It served as a summer retreat for emperors and their families.

Highlights:

Kunming Lake: Take a boat ride for picturesque views
Long Corridor: Famous for its painted scenes
Marble Boat and Tower of Buddhist Incense: Iconic photo spots

Tips:

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for visiting
Spend at least 2–3 hours exploring the gardens and pavilions
Combine with a visit to nearby Beijing Zoo or Olympic Park

Temple of Heaven

Overview:
The Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is where emperors prayed for good harvests. It’s also a popular park for locals practicing tai chi and dancing.

Highlights:

Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests: Iconic triple-gabled structure
Circular Mound Altar: Unique acoustic design
Imperial Vault of Heaven: Peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture

Tips:

Early morning visits allow you to see locals exercising
Bring a camera for stunning architectural shots
Guided tours provide historical context about ceremonial practices

Hutongs and Courtyard Homes

Overview:
Beijing’s hutongs are narrow alleys lined with traditional courtyard homes. They offer a glimpse of old Beijing and local life.

Highlights:

Nanluoguxiang: Vibrant shops, cafes, and street performances
Shichahai: Scenic lakes and evening boat rides
Traditional courtyard homes: Experience tea ceremonies or local crafts

Tips:

Walking tours are the best way to explore
Respect private properties while wandering
Try local snacks and shop for unique souvenirs

Cultural Shows and Theatres

Overview:
Beijing is famous for its acrobatic shows, Peking opera, and kungfu performances. Attending a show adds a cultural dimension to your trip.

Highlights:

Chaoyang Theatre: Spectacular acrobatics and stunts
Liyuan Theatre: Authentic Peking opera experience
Red Theatre: Kungfu shows blending martial arts and storytelling

Tips:

Book tickets in advance for popular shows
Arrive early to get the best seats
Consider combining a show with dinner for a full cultural evening

Modern Attractions and Shopping

Overview:
Beijing isn’t just about history. The city also boasts modern architecture, shopping districts, and entertainment hubs.

Highlights:

Wangfujing Street: Famous for shopping and street food
798 Art District: Contemporary art galleries and cafes
Olympic Park: Iconic Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube

Tips:

Explore both day and night for different experiences
Try local street food like jianbing or skewers
Take plenty of photos—modern Beijing is very photogenic

Conclusion

Beijing offers a unique combination of history, culture, and modern attractions. Whether you’re hiking the Great Wall, exploring ancient palaces, strolling hutongs, or enjoying a live performance, there’s no shortage of experiences to make your trip unforgettable. By visiting these top destinations and following our insider tips, you can ensure a smooth, enriching, and memorable journey through China’s capital.

Top Beijing Destinations Reviewed