Beijing

Beijing is one of the most historically significant cities in the world. With its iconic landmarks, including the Great Wall and Forbidden City, it reflects the grandeur of ancient China while embracing modernity in architecture, cuisine, and culture.

🇨🇳

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY) ¥

Best Time

Sept-Nov

Population

21.5 million

Weather °C

0-26

"Beijing—where imperial palaces meet China’s vibrant cultural legacy."

Off the beaten path places in

Beijing

"Step into Beijing, the city where the past and future meet in grand imperial harmony."

Imperial, Modern

Famous for the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, its imperial palaces, and rich cultural heritage.

Home to the Great Wall of China

Beijing, China’s bustling capital, offers a stunning juxtaposition of ancient history and modern innovation. Home to landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace, the city is rich in cultural significance. As China’s political and cultural heart, Beijing is an incredible city to explore, blending centuries of history with cutting-edge development and a vibrant local culture.

The Summer Palace in Beijing features vast imperial gardens and stunning lakes, providing visitors with a tranquil retreat amidst the city’s bustling pace.

State

Beijing Municipality

Year

~1045 BC

Airport

Beijing Capital Int'l

Cost of Living (10)

$$

Places to See

4 Jiuxianqiao Road
4.5
$$
10 AM - 6 PM
Leading contemporary art institution
Vibe:
Artistic
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Art Lovers
A hub for modern art and exhibitions
📜
The Prince Gong Mansion
Historical Site
17 Qianhai West Street
4.7
Free
9 AM - 5 PM
Former residence of a royal prince
Vibe:
Cultural
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
History Buffs
Explore imperial history
🎨
798 Art District
Art District
4 Jiuxianqiao Road
4.6
Free
Open all day
Hub for contemporary art and galleries
Vibe:
Vibrant
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Art Enthusiasts
A creative space filled with modern art
🕌
The Tanzhe Temple
Historic Temple
Tanzhe Temple Road
4.5
Free
8 AM - 5 PM
One of the oldest temples in Beijing
Vibe:
Peaceful
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
History Buffs
A serene place for reflection and worship
🏞️
Jiankou Great Wall
Lesser-Known Wall
Jiankou Village
4.7
Free
Open all day
Untamed section of the Great Wall
Vibe:
Scenic
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Nature Enthusiasts
A less crowded section of the Great Wall
🌳
Yuyuantan Park
Hidden Park
Yuyuantan Road
4.6
Free
6 AM - 9 PM
Picturesque park with a beautiful lake
Vibe:
Tranquil
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Nature Lovers
Perfect for a peaceful retreat
Must Visit:

Chinese New Year, Beijing Opera

Places to Eat

1 Donghuamen Street
4.4
$$
5 PM - 12 AM
Vibrant night market for street eats
Vibe:
Lively
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Food Lovers
A culinary adventure after dark
🍲
Bian Yi Fang
Unique Cuisine
43 Qianmen Street
4.6
$$
11 AM - 10 PM
Specializes in Beijing-style roast duck
Vibe:
Rustic
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Food Adventurers
Traditional flavors in a casual setting
Wangfujing Street
4.5
$$
10 AM - 11 PM
Popular street food destination
Vibe:
Casual
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Snack Lovers
A must-visit for foodies
🍜
Da Dong Roast Duck
Local Cuisine
1-2 Dongsi Liutiao Street
4.7
$$$
11 AM - 10 PM
Famous for its Peking duck
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Food Lovers
Iconic dish in a stylish setting
Must Try:

Peking Duck, Jiaozi, Hot Pot

Places to Drink

🍸
The Hidden Hut
Hidden Bar
21 Fangzhuang Road
4.7
$$$
6 PM - 2 AM
Speakeasy-style bar with creative cocktails
Vibe:
Intimate
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Night Owls
A secret spot for craft cocktails
Maan Coffee
Artisan Café
118 Nanluoguxiang
4.5
$$
8 AM - 10 PM
Offers a variety of artisan coffees
Vibe:
Cozy
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Coffee Lovers
A haven for coffee enthusiasts
🍺
Jing-A Brewing Co.
Craft Brewery
44 Dongzhimen Inner St.
4.5
$$
12 PM - 10 PM
Local craft brewery with a range of beers
Vibe:
Laid-back
Get To:
Yes, taxi access
Tip:
Beer Enthusiasts
A hub for craft beer lovers
🍹
The Lounge at the One
Rooftop Bar
1 Jian Guo Men Wai Avenue
4.6
$$$
5 PM - 1 AM
Rooftop views of the city skyline
Vibe:
Trendy
Get To:
Yes, nearby
Tip:
Nightlife Enthusiasts
Chic lounge with stunning city views
Music / Dance:

Traditional Chinese opera, Peking opera

Places to Network

We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

Technology, Manufacturing

Places to Shop

🎁
The Silk Market
Local Handicrafts
8 Dongzhimen Outer St.
4.4
$$
9 AM - 9 PM
Famous for silk products and traditional crafts
Vibe:
Charming
Get To:
Yes, subway access
Tip:
Cultural Enthusiasts
A shopper's paradise for textiles
🌙
Sanlitun Night Market
Night Market
Sanlitun Road
4.6
Free
5 PM - 1 AM
Lively night market with street food and shops
Vibe:
Bustling
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Shopaholics
An energetic market after sunset
🛍️
Panjiayuan Antique Market
Vintage Market
1 Panjiayuan Road
4.6
Free
8 AM - 6 PM
Massive market for antiques and collectibles
Vibe:
Eclectic
Get To:
Yes, bus access
Tip:
Shopaholics
A treasure trove of vintage finds

Luxury

For More Places Visit

Watch Out

Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip Super Touristic Places

Transportation

Metro, buses, bicycles

City Overview

Beijing, the capital of China, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. It blends ancient traditions with modern development.

3 Day City Itinerary Guide

- Day 1: Morning: Visit the Forbidden City. Afternoon: Explore Tiananmen Square. Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Afternoon: Explore the Summer Palace. Evening: Attend a traditional Peking opera performance. - Day 3: Morning: Visit the Temple of Heaven. Afternoon: Explore the hutongs (traditional alleyways). Evening: Enjoy a night out in Wangfujing.

Current Trends

- Culinary trends: Rising interest in fusion cuisine and local food experiences. - Cultural events: Growing focus on traditional arts and crafts. - Tech innovations: Use of digital platforms for local event promotion.

Local Events Guide

- Beijing International Film Festival (April): Showcasing local and international films. - Chinese New Year Celebrations (January/February): Celebrating the Lunar New Year with festivities. - Beijing Design Week (September): Featuring local designers and artists.

Local Insider Tips

- Explore historical sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. - Enjoy the local food scene, including Peking duck and street food. - Visit contemporary art spaces like 798 Art District.

Sustainable Travel

- Sustainable initiatives: Focus on urban green spaces and eco-friendly transportation. - Community engagement: Supporting local artists and cultural initiatives. - Eco-friendly practices: Increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism.

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:

Ready to see through a local’s eyes? Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides. Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots. Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travellers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

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Unlock the Hidden Side:

Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets. From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface. Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals. For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.