Beijing, a well-known tourist destination with a rich history, expertly balances classical elegance with modern vigor. As China’s capital, it serves as both a political and cultural gathering place. The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace, all recognized names, are landmarks in Beijing and throughout China. Don’t miss the best 5 things to do in Beijing on your first-time Beijing tours.
Content
1. The Palace Museum
Since its opening on October 10, 1925, the Palace Museum, also named Forbidden City, has been referred to as “the largest museum of ancient art in China”. the top thing to do in Beijing, it is recognized as the head of the world’s five greatest imperial palaces. Entering the Forbidden City is like entering a “time machine”: bronze, jade, pottery, calligraphy and painting, furniture…—all types of “gems” dazzle you.
2. Temple of Heaven
This was the place where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties “offered sacrifices to heaven” and “prayed for grain”. The building is a collection of architectural skills of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and is the world’s largest temple complex. Every Friday, Saturday and the evening of major holidays, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest is lit up, which looks like a palace in the sky from a distance.
3. Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is one of the four famous gardens in China (the other three are Chengde Summer Resort, the Humble Administrator’s Garden in Suzhou and the Lingering Garden in Suzhou). It is the most complete royal residence and garden in China and is known as the Museum of Royal Gardens, and one of the best things to do in Beijing.
4. Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square, the “heart” of Beijing, is located on East Chang’an Avenue in Dongcheng District and can seat one million people. It is a “holy land” in the hearts of the Chinese, as it has numerous major architectures and is located near to the Forbidden City.
5. Beijing Zoo
4. Beijing Zoo
Beijing Zoo is a famous park in the capital with a history of 100 years. It is composed of three parts: zoo, botanical garden and agricultural experiment. Here lives Menglan, one of China’s most famous giant pandas
6. Beihai Park
Beihai Park, the “royal Secret Place” in Beijing’s Xicheng district, is located at No. 1 Wenjin Street, near Jingshan Park, Zhongnanhai, and the Forbidden City. It is considered one of the “most complete” royal gardens in China, a “outstanding representative” of Chinese classical garden art, and the “soul” of Beijing’s urban culture.
7. Shichahai
Shichahai Scenic Area consists of Qianhai, Houhai, and the West Sea lakes. The gorgeous areas and historic houses along the lakes, as well as the vibrant folk life, create a beautiful picture. There are several historical hutongs and many historic sites, including as the Bell and Drum Tower, Deshengmen Archery Tower, Gong Palace, Soong Ching Ling’s former residence, and Guo Moruo Memorial Hall.
Hello, I’m Rex Crist. My goal is to show that traveling can be affordable and fun! I love to explore new places and experience different cultures. I also like iced coffee, iced tea, and ice cream (in that order).
