Beijing


West side of the Forbidden City in Beijing
Photo by: Francisco Diez, Creative Commons

As China’s capital, Beijing is the center of culture, government, economy, and business. It is also the most important entry point and transportation center in China with its impressive roads, railways, and skyways that make the city very accessible.

Beijing is one of the six oldest cities in China and one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Over four million foreigners and 140 million local tourists visit this city every year. Beijing is the home of one of the wonders of the world and the only landmark visible from the moon, the Great Wall of China. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this ancient structure—the experience of seeing it yourself and walking along its bricks is a lot different than seeing it in magazine photos.

In the heart of Beijing is Tiananmen Square, a tourist destination that houses numerous historic attractions and landmarks. Thousands of tourists visit this place to see the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, Tiananmen Tower, Great Hall of the People, National Museum of China, and Monument to the People’s Heroes. The National Museum of China is an important destination since it gives visitors a glimpse on how the modern China developed through the years.

Just past the Tiananmen gate, the Forbidden City will welcome you. This 72-hectare tourist spot is the world’s biggest ancient palace as well as the best preserved in China. It holds the distinction of being one of the most significant palaces in the world, along with the White House in the United States, Buckingham Palace in the United Kingdom, Kremlin in Russia, and Palace of Versailles in France. This Chinese architectural wonder, which used to be the residence of the 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, currently houses the historical and cultural artifacts of China.

Beijing is the best place to experience some of the Chinese cuisines that the world raves about. High-end restaurants that abound the city serve the famous Beijing roast duck and other gourmet Chinese dishes.

Shopping is a worthwhile activity for visitors in Beijing, as the city offers a wide range of malls selling traditional Chinese products as well as those from the famous brands in the world.

Beijing has a very interesting nightlife. Experience Chinese folk culture in the Laoshe Tea house and Tianqiao Area. Watch the colorful performances such as martial arts, concerts, acrobatics, and the Beijing Opera. Beijing’s nightlife can make your visit an experience you’ll never forget.

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