Beijing
A World of Ancient Wonders
The true heart of China: potically, spiritually and historically, Beijing is a fascinating mix of brash modernity and ancient dynastic cultures. High-rise skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, and beautifully preserved architectural structures highlight the city's place in China's Imperial history
Politically, spiritually and historically, Beijing is a fascinating mix of brash modernity and ancient dynastic cultures. High-rise skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, and beautifully preserved architectural structures highlight the city’s place in China’s Imperial history.
A bustling metropolis, wander the streets to uncover some of the country’s most iconic images: from the sprawling concrete mass of Tiananmen Square to the majestic Temple of Heaven and elegant Summer Palace. Futuristic shopping malls, vibrant contemporary art districts, traditional teahouses, European-style cafes and bars, and lush gardens blend to create a unique destination.
At Beijing’s centre, the Forbidden City is an extraordinary complex of more than 800 buildings, pavilions and ancient palace halls. For more than five centuries, the City was out-of-bounds to ordinary Chinese. Ensure you set aside time to set foot on the awe-inspiring Great Wall, just north of Beijing. This super-structure was almost 2000 years in the making and in 1987 was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for cultural significance.
Insiders' Tips
- Walk the Great Wall: Live and breathe centuries of history along China's great dividing line.
- Admire the Temple of Heaven: The temple was built for the emperor to worship Heaven and to pray for good harvest.
- Tour the Forbidden City: Witness an extraordinary complex of more than 800 buildings
- Visit the Summer Palace, a 294ha park that was a summer resort for the emperors
More Information
For maps, days tours and accommodation options, visit the Beijing chapter in our online Asia Cities brochure. Click here.
