Plan your trip to Beijing, China
Guide Hotels Attractions Restaurants Shops
Regional Population: 7,480,601
Elevation: 180 meters
Time Zone: Asia/Harbin
Local Currency: CNY
Latitude: 39.9288889
Longitude: 116.3883333
Nearby Airports: PEK
Beijing is the capital of the most populous country in the world, the People’s Republic of China. It was also the seat of the Ming and Qing dynasty emperors until the formation of a republic in 1911. As such it is rich in historical sites and important government institutions.
Beijing hosted the Summer Olympics in 2008. Much of the city was in upheaval as infrastructure was being frenetically constructed and sights were being renovated for the Games. Post-Olympics visitors can look forward to some modern additions to the city’s attractions, including the “Water Cube” and the “Bird’s Nest.”
The Forbidden City is the spot to appreciate the might and grandeur of the Imperial Chinese court during the height of its power in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Despite the transformation of the city around it, the Forbidden City remains mercifully relatively untouched.
Hutongs are Beijing’s ancient alleyways, where you can find traditional Beijing architecture. Rent a bicycle and traverse some of the remaining hutongs. Visit the Temple of Heaven early in the morning to see thousands of people starting the day with tai chi. Or see a Beijing opera at the Laoshe Tea House near Qianmen station. There are always short shows in the afternoon. Admission is free, but you should buy a cup of tea.
Top Trips: road trips to Beijing
How Far Is It: distance to Beijing
Discover the best of China’s capital while staying off the tourist-trodden path.
Beijing sights offer cultural insights from old to new, from historical sites to futuristic Olympics venues.
Landed in Beijing and not sure how to get around? Follow these tips to ensure an enjoyable and relaxing vacation.
Finding a hotel room during the 2008 Olympics is easier than you might think, but act fast.
There are plenty of additional historic and cultural attractions worth your while, but if visiting Beijing for the first time, here are 10 must-see sights to get you on your way.
Before you sprint to the finish line at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, review these potential travel risks and recommendations.
TravelMuse writers offer tips to help travelers stay balanced when facing potential cultural challenges on a first visit to China.
If you think that travel in China isn’t family-friendly, think again. Just remember that you need a little bit of cultural understanding.
Walk along the world’s longest wall on a day trip from Beijing.
Explore everything from the evolution of the universe to 85 million-year-old dinosaur skeletons at exhibits offered at these natural history museums around the globe.
One teen hikes the Great Wall on her family vacation and takes a memorable zip-line flight off its edge.
This week's specials range from an Orlando single-parent family deal to a package for the Beijing Olympics.
Old meets new, East meets West in this ancient city that has been transforming itself for the XXIX Olympiad, just a week away.
