Beijing, China Things to Do and Attractions
On Fuxingmenwa Dajie, the western extension of Chang'an Street, sits the Capital Museum, a lofty architectural landmark the combines classical and modern influences. Inside the glistening, five-story glass building, visitors will find engaging
On Fuxingmenwa Dajie, the western extension of Chang'an Street, sits the Capital Museum, a lofty architectural landmark the combines classical and modern influences. Inside the glistening, five-story glass building, visitors will find engaging exhibits that focus on all things Beijing, from its fascinating cultural heritage to history, archeology and more. Ancient Capital: Urban Construction and Stories of the Capital City – Old Beijing Folk Customs are among the permanent exhibitions. Fine art is another important focus with works of ancient calligraphy and jade among those on view. Altogether, the museum is home to an impressive 5,622 items on display.
The Capital Museum offers planners several spaces for public and private group functions. Among the choices is the Reception Hall with an area of about 610 square meters, which is ideal for large scale events. The various exhibition halls, the Conference Hall, equipped with the latest technology and the Digital Movie Hall are also available.
The Capital Museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is CNY 20. Guided group tours are available in English.
When visitors first arrive to the massive marvel that is the Forbidden City, they are often struck by the sheer size of the 218,322-square-meter complex. Originally constructed between 1406 and 1420 under Ming Emperor Yongle, the Forbidden City was
When visitors first arrive to the massive marvel that is the Forbidden City, they are often struck by the sheer size of the 218,322-square-meter complex. Originally constructed between 1406 and 1420 under Ming Emperor Yongle, the Forbidden City was home to 23 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Navigating what is considered the largest and most well-preserved imperial residence in China is a rich history lesson in ancient Chinese civilization. Guests will find so many things to discover including the National Palace Museum with its vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts, exquisite textiles, furniture and more. Other points of interests include the Hall of Supreme Harmony, Palace of Heavenly Purity, Hall of Mental Cultivation, the Imperial Garden and the numerous courts, pavilions and gates.
The Forbidden City is open October 16 to April 15 from 8:30 AM to 4:20 PM. Hours are extended April 16 to October 15 until 5 PM. Fall and winter admission is CNY 40 from and spring and summer admission is CNY 60. Additional rates may apply to various attractions. Group tours in English are available.
The 14,484-kilometer-long Great Wall is evidence that wildly ambitious construction projects are nothing new in China. For every dynasty since the Qin, it served as protection against hostile neighbors to the north, spanning about 8,851 kilometers
The 14,484-kilometer-long Great Wall is evidence that wildly ambitious construction projects are nothing new in China. For every dynasty since the Qin, it served as protection against hostile neighbors to the north, spanning about 8,851 kilometers from the east to west of the nation.
There are three main sections near Beijing for visiting the Great Wall. Badaling is the closest, about an hour outside of the city, but gets the lowest marks for crowds and scenery. Another 30 minutes away is Mutianyu, a slightly less busy entry point that offers the option of taking a gondola up and a giant toboggan slide down. Simatai is the furthest of the three at about a three-hour drive from Beijing. A cable car and zip line are available here, but hikers can enjoy the four-hour walk from Simatai to Jinshanling.
For groups that want to dine together, meet or do some other activities on their trip to the wall, the Brickyard Inn at Mutiayu opened in 2010. The inn has meeting rooms up to 183 square meters in size.
Any hotel can help arrange transportation to the Great Wall, and a chartered van or bus is the best option for groups of 10 or more people. Badaling is open from 7 AM to 7 PM. Mutianyu is open from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Badaling admission is CNY 45. Mutianyu admission is CNY 40. Admission at Simatai is CNY 40.
Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998, the Summer Palace and its lush landscape continue to captivate visitors with its natural beauty and compelling history. Situated 14.9 kilometers from central Beijing, this popular park area,
Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998, the Summer Palace and its lush landscape continue to captivate visitors with its natural beauty and compelling history. Situated 14.9 kilometers from central Beijing, this popular park area, originally built in the 18th century by Emperor Qianlong for his mother, features several scenic spots such as Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake. Also on the grounds are several palaces, gardens and other structures, including the Pavilion of Bright Scenery, the Hall of Serenity and the Wenchang Galleries. During the warmer months, visitors can have a picnic or rent paddle boats on the lake.
The Summer Palace is open April 1 to October 31 from 6:30 AM to 6 PM and November 1 to March 31 from 7 AM to 5 PM. Admission from April 1 to October 31 is CNY 30. From November 1 to March 31, admission is CNY 20.
Built in 1420 A.D., the Temple of Heaven is a popular point of interest southeast of Beijing. Considered the most holy of Beijing's imperial temples, the Temple of Heaven is known as being the place where the emperors would come to pray for a
Built in 1420 A.D., the Temple of Heaven is a popular point of interest southeast of Beijing. Considered the most holy of Beijing's imperial temples, the Temple of Heaven is known as being the place where the emperors would come to pray for a bountiful harvest. Highlights within the temple area are the Circular Mound Altar, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest and Echo Wall.
The Temple of Heaven is open from 8 AM to 6 PM. Admission is CNY 10 from November 1 to March 31 and CNY 15 from April 1 to October 31.
In addition to being the site of one of the most gruesome moments of the 20th century, Tiananmen Square is the past and present center of politics in China. Located just south of the entrance to the Forbidden City, it sprawls over 109 acres from the
In addition to being the site of one of the most gruesome moments of the 20th century, Tiananmen Square is the past and present center of politics in China. Located just south of the entrance to the Forbidden City, it sprawls over 109 acres from the old city gate of Qianmen in the south to the Monument to the People's Heroes in the north. To the west is the Great Hall of the People, where China's national governing body meets each year. In the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, Mao Zedong lies embalmed in a dark room that tourists can visit for free, but are quickly shuffled through.
The Tiananmen area's most modern structure is the National Opera House. Built before the 2008 Olympics, the majestic house is shaped like a giant egg floating on a circular moat. Guests who visit at sunrise or sunset will see the daily flag raising or lowering.
Tiananmen Gate, where Mao's giant portrait hangs, is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Often compared to the trendy New York neighborhood of SoHo, the 798 Arts District is credited for transforming Dashanzi neighborhood from a once abandoned industrial area known for housing several state-owned factories to a thriving artist community
Often compared to the trendy New York neighborhood of SoHo, the 798 Arts District is credited for transforming Dashanzi neighborhood from a once abandoned industrial area known for housing several state-owned factories to a thriving artist community complete with culture, commerce, cafes, bars, galleries and residential loft living. Since first emerging on the scene in 2002, the area has hosted larger high-profile events, such as the first Beijing Biennale and the first Dashanzi International Art Fair.
Sitting at the center of the activity is 798 Space, a Bauhaus-style venue that can accommodate multimedia presentations, concerts, receptions, product launches, trade fairs and other group events. The 798 space, which spans 304.7 square meters, features an exhibition hall that can host 60 to 1,000 people and a small lounge ideal for meetings of 30 to 60 people. Also on the property are the Old Factory Pizza Bar and a contemporary art book shop.
High-end brands, amazing bargains, knock-offs and more are all available in the shops and on the streets of Beijing. The city is home to several well-known shopping districts catering to guests of all tastes and price points.
Just east of the
High-end brands, amazing bargains, knock-offs and more are all available in the shops and on the streets of Beijing. The city is home to several well-known shopping districts catering to guests of all tastes and price points.
Just east of the Forbidden City, visitors to Wangfujing Street will encounter a busy area complete with malls, department stores, designer boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Notable spots here include the New Dong'an Bazaar, Beijing Department Store and the Shengxifu Hat Store. Along with Xidan Commercial Street, shoppers will find eight large markets including the Xidan Shopping Center and the Zhongyou Department Store.
For quaint shops and authentic wares, guests should head to the Qianmen Shopping Street. Antique lovers will want to spend time on Liuilchang Culture Street, which is home to the famed Rong Bao Zhai, which has sold antiques and authentic art for over 300 years. Fashionable types always flock to Silk Alley, near the U.S. Embassy.
One of the most unique and exciting ways to see the charms of old world Beijing is on a guided rickshaw tour. Offered by Beijing Discovery Tours, trips last a full day and include a ride through the ancient alleyways of Beijing (known as hutongs), a
One of the most unique and exciting ways to see the charms of old world Beijing is on a guided rickshaw tour. Offered by Beijing Discovery Tours, trips last a full day and include a ride through the ancient alleyways of Beijing (known as hutongs), a stop for tea and a visit with a hutong-dwelling family. Tour guests will also have the chance to shop at the world famous Silk Market after lunch. Each trip is led by an English speaking guide.
Tours last from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The tour costs CNY 1,065 for one person and CNY 740 per person for two passengers.
Home of the Beijing Opera, the Liyuan Theatre is a window into the rich cultural heritage of Chinese performance art and Chinese Opera. An immersive experience from start to finish, guests of the venue have the option to step behind the scenes and
Home of the Beijing Opera, the Liyuan Theatre is a window into the rich cultural heritage of Chinese performance art and Chinese Opera. An immersive experience from start to finish, guests of the venue have the option to step behind the scenes and view cast preparations, including the intricate make up and costuming process, before the show. Plus, prior to the performance, waiters and waitress in traditional dress also serve tea through long-mouth tea pots while introducing Beijing Opera.
Following the show, the audience can browse items related to the Beijing Opera in Liyuan's gift shop or enjoy a meal at the adjoining restaurant.
The theater holds an audience of 1,000 people and is equipped with simultaneous translation equipment for English and Japanese. The theater also provides English subtitles for foreign visitors.
Performances at the Liyuan Theater begin at 7:30 PM. Ticket prices vary, but generally start at around CNY 120 for Peking Opera performances.
Food and fun mix perfectly at Lounge & Bar Loco. This new establishment is rapidly becoming one of Beijing’s hot spots thanks to its impressive variety of dining and drinks options. The restaurant at Loco is open every day for lunch and dinner,
Food and fun mix perfectly at Lounge & Bar Loco. This new establishment is rapidly becoming one of Beijing’s hot spots thanks to its impressive variety of dining and drinks options. The restaurant at Loco is open every day for lunch and dinner, serving a menu of Western and Asian dishes. The bar serves cocktails from around the world, from Guinness to Absinthe.
Lounge & Bar Loco is open Monday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 2 AM.
Mansion 8 combines the best of Chinese and Western culture to form the perfect entertainment experience. One of the most exclusive venues in the city, the club features more than 60 luxury VIP rooms as well as a Presidential Room. In addition to
Mansion 8 combines the best of Chinese and Western culture to form the perfect entertainment experience. One of the most exclusive venues in the city, the club features more than 60 luxury VIP rooms as well as a Presidential Room. In addition to drinks, Mansion 8 serves gourmet Cantonese cuisine restaurant along with some Japanese dishes.
Mansion 8 is open daily from 8 PM to 2 AM.
Tourists and locals mingle on this half-mile-long lane in Beijing's 800-year-old historic Dongcheng District that was once home to imperial officers, wealthy families, artists and more. The first cafe opened here in 1999 following a complete
Tourists and locals mingle on this half-mile-long lane in Beijing's 800-year-old historic Dongcheng District that was once home to imperial officers, wealthy families, artists and more. The first cafe opened here in 1999 following a complete refurbishment of the area. Within five years it had turned from a quiet residential area into a bustling entertainment district with over 30 eateries and 40 shops.
Restaurants offer food ranging from Tibetan to Japanese to Chinese interpretations of "Western" food like hot dogs, pizza, and churros and even fish and chips, served at the popular Fish Nation. Several bars are also becoming great party spots in the city, including the Pass By Bar, one of the first and now most popular establishments. Shops sell some of the best gifts and souvenirs you'll find in Beijing, notably clothing and handmade crafts.
Visitors can also stroll around Nanluoguxiang's surrounding hutongs, or lanes lined with traditional Chinese courtyard-style homes. Along the way are places of interest such as the Central Academy of Drama, where several Chinese television and film stars, including Zhang Ziyi of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, studied. Another option is to wander northwest to visit the lakes of Houhai and Qianhai and the drum and bell towers, which were used to indicated the time of day to citizens as early as the Han Dynasty.
Hours vary according to venue, but in general shops and cafes begin opening after 10 AM. Most shops stay open past 10 PM and many bars stay open to the early morning hours.
The National Centre for the Performing Arts was 60 years in the making. Originally envisioned in 1949 to salute the 10th Anniversary of the People's Republic, the proposed major cultural center finally received approval by the State Council in April
The National Centre for the Performing Arts was 60 years in the making. Originally envisioned in 1949 to salute the 10th Anniversary of the People's Republic, the proposed major cultural center finally received approval by the State Council in April 1998 and officially opened its doors in 2007. Considered a new architectural icon in old Beijing, the venue, or "The Egg" as it is fondly called by the Chinese because of its ellipsoid structure, serves as a grand stage for established and emerging performers from China and beyond in the worlds of classical music, dance, opera and drama.
Three main venues make up the National Centre for the Performing Arts: the 2,398-seat Opera House, the 2,019-seat Concert Hall and the 1,035-seat Theatre. The venue is also home to an area known as the Fifth Space, which includes an underwater corridor, an exhibition gallery, a resource center, souvenir shops and cafes.
Hours and admission for the National Centre for the Performing Arts vary based on event. Discounted ticket rates are available for groups.
Blending music, dance, storytelling and acrobatics, Chinese opera is rarely experienced in the Western world. One of China's oldest and best regarded companies is the Peking Opera. Visitors to Beijing can be fortunate enough to experience the majesty
Blending music, dance, storytelling and acrobatics, Chinese opera is rarely experienced in the Western world. One of China's oldest and best regarded companies is the Peking Opera. Visitors to Beijing can be fortunate enough to experience the majesty of the Peking Opera first-hand and with the expertise of an English-speaking guide aboard the Peking Opera Bus tour.
Tours originate at the guest's hotel and include transport aboard a luxury motor coach to the Beijing Liyuan Theater for a performance. Along the way, the guide will share expert knowledge about the history and significance of the company. Following the performance, groups can shop for items at the theater gift shop before the guide escorts them back to their hotel.
The bus departs at 6 PM. The cost of the trip is CNY 175 plus the cost of show tickets.
Peddlers at this sizable open-air market specialize in Chinese classics such as painted fans, calligraphy brushes, cloisonné and wooden furniture. Over 3,000 booths sell second-hand items, from Mao memorabilia to teapots and pocket knives, as well as
Peddlers at this sizable open-air market specialize in Chinese classics such as painted fans, calligraphy brushes, cloisonné and wooden furniture. Over 3,000 booths sell second-hand items, from Mao memorabilia to teapots and pocket knives, as well as authentic antiques and some affordable look-alikes. Guests should be sure to haggle over the price.
Bespectacled travelers with a few hours to spend in the neighborhood should cross over the Third Ring Road to Glasses City, where glasses can be made in an hour for a fraction of what they cost stateside.
The Panjiayuan Flea Market is open seven days a week, but it's at its most lively on weekends before 3 PM.
Situated next to the Sheraton Great Wall Hotel, Passion Club is one of the most luxurious and exciting clubs in Beijing. The club attracts international DJs who perform against a backdrop of intense color lasers, while the beats and beverages keep
Situated next to the Sheraton Great Wall Hotel, Passion Club is one of the most luxurious and exciting clubs in Beijing. The club attracts international DJs who perform against a backdrop of intense color lasers, while the beats and beverages keep patrons entertained. Passion Club's mod decor and elegant design create an elite atmosphere, attracting Beijing's wealthy, young and hip that congregate at the club to see and be seen.
Passion Club is open daily from 8 PM to 2 AM.
This stylish and chic club is a hit with tourists and locals alike. Named for its décor that resembles an opium den, The Den has been named one of the world's best bars for its pulsing rhythms, incredible food and people watching.
Young people
This stylish and chic club is a hit with tourists and locals alike. Named for its décor that resembles an opium den, The Den has been named one of the world's best bars for its pulsing rhythms, incredible food and people watching.
Young people flock to the two-story clubs top level to hear disco beats and experience Beijing's most exciting dance floor. The downstairs area provides a more cozy location for guests to dine on the menu of European and Asian cuisine. The Den is actually known for serving some of the finest pizza in Beijing.
The Den is open Friday and Saturday from 10:30 AM to 6 AM and Thursday and Sunday from 10:30 PM to 3 AM.
Those craving French fare will find it at Brasserie FLO, an authentic brasserie serving steak frites and other classic favorites. A five-time recipient of the Best French in Beijing nod from That's Beijing magazine, this popular establishment is
Those craving French fare will find it at Brasserie FLO, an authentic brasserie serving steak frites and other classic favorites. A five-time recipient of the Best French in Beijing nod from That's Beijing magazine, this popular establishment is authentic right down to its design, which was inspired by the Brasserie Terminus Nord in Paris. Stained glass windows, hand-crafted brass and paintings reminiscent of the Belle Epoque Era fill the dining room.
French Chef Bertrand Combe, a Marseille native, whips up house specials such as sauerkraut and goose liver, and Brittany oysters. In fact, Brasserie FLO was the first restaurant in Beijing to serve oysters fresh from France. A sweet treat created from in-house confectioners is the perfect ending to any meal.
The restaurant offers groups several private dining options. The main dining room can accommodate parties of 10 to 90 people for pre-theater dinner, a gala function and other events. The Terminus Nord Room is ideal for 40 people; the Julien Room for smaller parties of up to 20 people; and the Balzar Room for eight people.
Brasserie FLO Beijing serves lunch from 11 AM to 3PM and dinner from 6 to 11 PM. Guests can expect to pay approximately CNY 400 for a meal, though special lunch menus start at CNY 78.
Situated near the embassy district south of the Nanxicang International Building, Da Dong Duck Restaurant receives rave reviews from the regulars thanks to its savory, crispy signature dish, Peking Duck. Food critics from "The New York Times" and top
Situated near the embassy district south of the Nanxicang International Building, Da Dong Duck Restaurant receives rave reviews from the regulars thanks to its savory, crispy signature dish, Peking Duck. Food critics from "The New York Times" and top local blogs such as the Beijinger can't say enough positive things about this lively place and its 160-page menu, which also features favorites such as braised eggplant, curried scallops and venison with garlic and pineapple sauce. An efficient staff and spacious layout add to the restaurant's appeal for both locals and visitors alike.
Da Dong Duck Restaurant features several private dining rooms that can accommodate small group events. The restaurant is open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM. Average price of a meal is CNY 110.
Located in the Traders Upper East Hotel Beijing, Wu Li Xiang is an elegant choice for regional cuisine. Master Chef Kam, who brings 30 years of experience to the restaurant, oversees the Cantonese, Huaiyang, Hunan and Sichuan creations in the
Located in the Traders Upper East Hotel Beijing, Wu Li Xiang is an elegant choice for regional cuisine. Master Chef Kam, who brings 30 years of experience to the restaurant, oversees the Cantonese, Huaiyang, Hunan and Sichuan creations in the kitchen. Monk Jump Over the Wall, Princess Fried Rice and dishes with shark fin, abalone and lobster are among his gourmet specialties.
In addition to the main dining area, Wu Li Xiang features 11 private dining rooms for exclusive gatherings. The restaurant serves lunch from 11 AM to 2 PM and dinner from 5 to 10 PM. The average price range for a meal for two is CNY 100 to CNY 200.
Beijing's answer to Disneyland is the Beijing Amusement Park. Opened in 1984, the park provides fun for the entire family with rides such as the Super Train and the Water Car and two thrilling roller coasters.
In addition to rides, Beijing
Beijing's answer to Disneyland is the Beijing Amusement Park. Opened in 1984, the park provides fun for the entire family with rides such as the Super Train and the Water Car and two thrilling roller coasters.
In addition to rides, Beijing Amusement Park offers entertainment and live shows along with an aquarium on site. With a scenic lake encircling the park and a majestic castle at the entrance, the park leaves guests with the impression that they are entering a new and magical world.
Beijing Amusement Park is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM during the summer months. Admission is CNY 80 for children and CNY 120 for adults.
Situated in the Xicheng District near the Beijing Exhibition Hall, the Beijing Zoo has experienced several past lives – the Sanbeizi Gardens, the Garden of Ten Thousand Animals and West Suburban Park – before receiving its official and current name
Situated in the Xicheng District near the Beijing Exhibition Hall, the Beijing Zoo has experienced several past lives – the Sanbeizi Gardens, the Garden of Ten Thousand Animals and West Suburban Park – before receiving its official and current name in 1955. Animal’s native to China, such as the Giant panda and Golden monkey, reside here, as do some from foreign lands including kangaroos, zebras and more. Overall, the zoo has more than 14,000 animals from nearly 1,000 different species.
Within the zoo's 50,000 square meters are plenty of options for seeing wildlife up close, including more than 15 individual halls devoted to pandas, monkeys, lions, tigers, elephants and more. The Beijing Aquarium is the largest such attraction in China, offering a range of fish species and aquatic animal shows.
In addition to the animals, the zoo's grounds are beautifully landscaped with gorgeous trees, plants and pavilions to resemble classic Chinese gardens. Many of the buildings from the Qing Dynasty are still intact.
The Beijing Zoo is open April 1 to October 31 from 7:30 AM to 6 PM and November 1 to March 31 from 7:30 AM to 5 PM. The Beijing Aquarium is open from 9AM to 5 PM. Admission is CNY 15. Admission to the Panda Hall is an additional CNY 5.
With more than 20 courses near the city, Beijing offers golf aficionados the opportunity to play a round at a number of unique and challenging clubs. Many of the courses are located within an easy drive of the heart of the city. Highlights include
With more than 20 courses near the city, Beijing offers golf aficionados the opportunity to play a round at a number of unique and challenging clubs. Many of the courses are located within an easy drive of the heart of the city. Highlights include the Beijing Golf Club and its views of the Great Wall from the first tee. Also not to be missed is the Pine Valley Golf Resort and Country Club. The Jack Nicklaus-designed course at Pine Valley challenges and inspires golfers with its perfectly manicured fairways and awe-inspiring beauty.
Tee times and green fees vary based on course. Golfers should review each course's dress code and shoe type restrictions before playing.
An urban oasis, Tuanjiehu Park attracts locals and visitors alike with its incredible natural beauty and opportunities for summertime fun. The park features Chinese gardens, perfect for meditation and reflection, as well as a lake that is open for
An urban oasis, Tuanjiehu Park attracts locals and visitors alike with its incredible natural beauty and opportunities for summertime fun. The park features Chinese gardens, perfect for meditation and reflection, as well as a lake that is open for swimming and recreation in the summer. Guests can also beat the heat at the parks a large swimming pool, which even has a yellow sand beach and a wave machine.
The park is open seven days a week from 6:30 AM to 7 PM, though the swimming pool is open seasonally. Entry to the park is free, though admission to attractions varies.
