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Originally built in the days of Kublai Khan, this park was used for recreation by the emperors of post-Kublai Khan dynasties. The famous White Pagoda standing above the Jade Islet creates an exotic scene. It memorializes a visit by the Dalai Lama in 1651. Other famous features include the Nine-Dragon Screen, built to ward off evil spirits, and the Five-Dragon Pavilion. The park is enjoyable in every season, especially in summer when graceful lotus blooms cover the surface of the lake.

Located in Beijing's art haven, the Dashanzi Art district, 798, is a main attraction representing all that is innovative, hip, and avant-garde in Beijing's art world. Housed in an old factory once used to make weapons, the atmosphere is a mixture of the old and the new. With the ability to hold over 1,000 guests, expect plenty of room to waltz around the galleries, stop by the book store, or sit down and talk about the art you have just seen.

The Simatai Great Wall, two hours drive from Beijing in northeastern Miyun County, is renowned for its precipitous topography. Built by the Ming Dynasty general Qi Ji Guang, it is one of the few stretches of the Wall that still preserve the original construction features of that period. It not only incorporates differing characteristics from other Wall sections, but also displays some features not found elsewhere. To the west 20 watchtowers look out over gently sloping hills. To the east are 15 watchtowers atop peaks up to 1,000 meters high. The views are unparalleled.