Beijing
The Chinese say one is not a man until he has walked the Great Wall. We agree! There are some things all visitors must see when coming to China, and Beijing is home to many of them; the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven and other historic attractions. Yet Beijing isn't just about history. It is alive and thriving today. The beautiful Houhai Lake District is a great place to take a break from your sightseeing and Wanfujing Street will fulfill all of your shopping needs.
Beside the many major attractions there are many smaller places of interest throughout the city that are must-see destinations for those of you interested in the city's history and culture. These destinations are scattered throughout and easily reached by subway, bicycle or taxi. From the quiet hutongs to the city center, you will glimpse into authentic Beijing culture.
With so much to see and explore, we are providing some basic information here to help you make informed choices and use your time wisely. We have focused on tourist sites here, but don't forget that many of the most exciting and rewarding experiences in China come from getting off of the tourist route and enjoying everyday life. Eat a meal in a local restaurant, take a walk through the residential neighborhoods, or have a cup of tea in the shade of a willow tree along Houhai lake.
This list is not all-inclusive. There are many other wonderful spots in the city to investigate! We hope that you find your passion and seek out those spots that meet your needs. If there are other destinations that you would like to see listed, please let us know and we will be happy to include them in out list.
Beijing Resources
- Beijing City Government Website - Much enhanced information since the 2008 Olympics
- Beijing City Weekend Magazine Online - Regularly published city guide
- Beijing Olympics Website
General Travel Tips
