Beijing, the vibrant capital of China, is a harmonious blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. With a history that spans over three millennia, it stands as a testament to China’s rich cultural heritage and its pivotal role in shaping the nation’s destiny.
Quick facts
– Population: Approximately 21.5 million (as of 2022)
– Area: 16,410.54 km² (slightly larger than the country of Qatar!)
– Language Spoken: Mandarin, Standard Chinese
Most important spots to visit & how long to stay
– Major historical sites: The Forbidden City, The Great Wall of China, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple), Confucius Temple.
– Other sites/ areas to visit: 798 Art District, Wangfujing Street, 2008 Olympic sites (Bird’s Nest and Water Cube), Houhai Lake, Sanlitun area.
– Recommended duration for exploration: you can easily spend 5 to 7 days exploring the most important places. A minimum of 3 to 4 days is necessary to do the basics.
Where to stay
For luxury travelers, Beijing is one of the best places in China. Besides the luxury hotels such as Aman Summer Palace, The BVLGARI Hotel, The Peninsula, Rosewood, Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, etc., there are many luxury boutique hotels, such as The Opposite House, Puxuan Hotel, and the Chao Hotel. necessary to do the basics.
Unique and exclusive experiences
– Private lunch on a part of the Great Wall with nobody else.
Culinary Delights
– Peking Duck: A renowned dish characterized by its thin, crisp skin and tender meat, typically served with pancakes, sweet bean sauce, and spring onions.
– Jiaozi (Dumplings): Traditional Chinese dumplings often filled with meat or vegetables.
– Beijing Hot Pot: A communal dish where ingredients are boiled in a flavorful broth and enjoyed with various dipping sauces.
– Zhajiangmian: Noodles topped with a thick sauce made of stir-fried pork in soybean paste.
– Lamb Skewers: Grilled skewers of spiced mutton, commonly found in street stalls.
Local Tips & Recommendations
– Best modes of transport within the city: While Beijing boasts an extensive subway system and numerous bus lines, due to the vast distances and spread-out nature of attractions, having a car and a driver is the most optimal way to navigate the city efficiently.
– Cultural norms or etiquettes to be aware of: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics. When visiting temples or sacred places, dress modestly.
– Weather: Beijing experiences four distinct seasons, with cold, dry winters seeing temperatures ranging from -10°C to 4°C (14°F to 39°F) and hot, humid summers with temperatures between 25°C to 38°C (77°F to 100°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and are often considered the best times to visit.
A few curiosities most people don’t know about the city
– Despite Beijing’s image as a modern metropolis, it houses a unique network of ancient man-made underground tunnels and chambers called “Dixia Cheng” or the Underground City.
– Beijing is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Only a handful of cities around the world can boast such a significant number of Heritage Sites.
– Nine Million Bikes: even though it’s impossible to determine an exact number, most conservative estimates suggest that at least nine million bikes exist in the city.
Final thoughts & conclusion
Any journey to China would be incomplete without setting foot in Beijing. While it might not be on the list for repeat visits, its role as the epicenter of the nation’s political life and the repository of breathtaking historical sites makes it unparalleled. Distinctly different from the vibrant southern cities or the serene countryside, Beijing offers a unique tapestry of experiences. With an endless array of activities catering to every age and interest, the city promises an unforgettable immersion into the heart of China.
