Today Beijing is a sprawling metropolis, boasting modern skyscrapers, shopping centres, highways, and an underground train network with a whopping 27 lines! And of course, it has been the capital of the Chinese civilisation for most of its long history. As such, it houses an invaluable heritage that spans multiple stages of China’s history. Without further adieu, let’s explore the best places to visit in Beijing.
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The Forbidden City
Built in the early 15th century during the Ming dynasty, the Forbidden City served as the imperial palace until the end of the empire. As the modern name suggests, entry to the complex was strictly prohibited without prior permission from the Emperor. After the end of the empire, the complex was established as a museum but later suffered troubled times. It was occupied by the Japanese and later damaged in the Cultural Revolution. However, a restoration project has been underway to bring the forbidden City back to its original opulent splendour. Most of it is now complete and open to the public, but a few areas are still undergoing restoration.
If you are spending some time in Beijing, the Forbidden City is a location that can’t be missed. I would recommend visiting with a guided tour if possible. With a guide, you will learn so many facts and curiosities about the complex and the hidden meanings behind the architectural features. It’s only by learning as much as possible that you’ll truly immerse yourself in the long history of the complex, and its immense significance in Chinese culture.
The Lama Temple
The Lama Temple is a major attraction in Beijing that sees plenty of local and international visitors. It is still, however, an active temple and monastery of Tibetan Buddhism. The temple complex dates back to the late 17th century and holds notable historical significance. It has served as the epicentre of Tibetan Buddhism in China for centuries.
Several guided tours are available on Viator, many of which include visits to nearby attractions. They may be a good option if you’re interested in learning more about the former imperial city. However, you can also visit the temple independently: the queues at the entrance will not be too long and it won’t get as crowded as other attractions like the Forbidden City. Therefore, you can have an enjoyable and quiet visit, escaping the hustle and bustle of the busy city. If you’re lucky, you may get to experience a Buddhist ritual in one of the chambers.
If visiting independently, the Temple is also very easy to reach via the underground system. You can also explore other attractions in the area, which I’ll get into in the next section.
The Hutongs and the old Towers
Hutongs may easily be what you imagine when thinking of ancient Chinese buildings. They are groups of alleys with rows of small, traditional residential buildings. They used to be common throughout northern China, but many were destroyed during the 20th century to make space for modern buildings. In Beijing, however, some of the most ancient hutongs were spared and eventually became protected areas to safeguard the city’s ancient heritage.
Now, they are rarely used as residential areas. They instead feel like a European town centre: they are mostly pedestrianised and mainly have restaurants, cafes and shops. They have become a place for locals and visitors to meet up and spend quality time having a meal together, or simply strolling through the traditional alleys and parks.
The hutongs are mostly located in the area around the Lama Temple. If you go for a stroll, make sure not to miss the Drum and Bell Towers, some of the few surviving towers in Beijing. Local authorities used them to announce the time, but nowadays you can climb to the top for a view. This is the best place to reach higher ground and have a wide view of the city.
Overall, the ancient hutongs are pleasant, rich in activities and historically significant. For these reasons, they are certainly among the best places to visit in Beijing.
Beihai Park
Located near the Forbidden City, Beihai Park is a large park and garden that formed part of the imperial city. It is considered one of the largest and finest of traditional Chinese gardens. The park was first built as early as the 12th century, but underwent several changes and additions throughout the centuries. Nowadays, it contains beautiful gardens, temples and traditional pavilions, all centred around a large lake.
There is perhaps no better place in Beijing to really soak in the atmosphere of the ancient imperial city. The park is often not crowded, so a stroll among the temples should be on your bucket list when visiting Beijing.
With its location in the ancient part of Beijing, the neighbouring areas are also worth exploring, with traditional hutongs, lakes and other parks.
The Summer Palace
Often considered the ‘playground’ of Chinese Emperors, the Summer Palace is another complex of Palaces and gardens that dates back to the 12th century. However, it went through several large-scale changes over the years. Its current layout was constructed under Emperor Qianlong in the 18th century. He designed the new layout to stay cool during the hot summer days in Beijing. The lake was made larger to create more breeze and a long, shaded corridor was built around one side of the lake.
The Summer Palace offers truly stunning views and the buildings feature beautiful statues and paintings. The atmosphere is quite peaceful despite the crowds, and you are bound to enjoy your visit.
The Great Wall of China
Beijing is one of the best places to visit the Great Wall of China. The wall, in fact, runs close to the city and there are several locations where you can visit it.
Some locations, like Badaling and Mutianyu have been completely restored. They also have infrastructure to welcome large numbers of visitors. These sections are easy to get to and very accessible. They have well maintained stairs and handrails, which can be useful when visiting as most of the wall is very steep. They also have shops and food outlets. These popular sections are a great option if you want to see the picturesque views without sacrificing tourist conveniences. Bear in mind, though, that they often get crowded and may feel less authentic due to the polished look.
Other locations, like Gubeikou, are more remote and would be a preferable option if you’re after a more raw experience. You can hike around the hills without large crowds and get to see the wall in a less polished way. The downsides are, of course, the lack of convenience and accessibility.
If you’d like to travel in a group and have an English-speaking guide, a guided tour to one of the more popular locations would be the best option. Make sure to have a look at Viator for the best options.
The Temple of Heaven Park
This was probably my favourite place in all of Beijing. The Temple of Heaven Park, or Tian Tian Park, is a large landscaped garden with a number of temples. The emperor used to visit the main temple, the ‘Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests’, every year to pray for bountiful crops the following season.
Like many other imperial complexes in Beijing, the Temple of Heaven underwent several changes to its layout and buildings since its original creation in the 15th century. It also needed extensive restoration work following the turmoil that Beijing experienced in the 20th century.
Now back to its former glory, the park is truly stunning to visit with its impressive landscaping and rich symbolism. Also, the main hall is in a raised position, which allows for far-reaching views across the city. If you are visiting Beijing, this is certainly one of the best places to visit.
Tiananmen Square
Definitely Beijing’s most controversial landmark, Tiananmen Square is nonetheless an important sight in China’s modern history. It is a large, Soviet-style rectangular square located just south of the Forbidden City. If visiting, don’t expect your typical European square: you will go through a security check to gain access and you will see heavy military presence in the square itself.
The main landmarks of the square itself are the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. On the sides, you can admire the south gate of the Forbidden city, the imposing National Museum and the Great Hall of the People.
Longqing Gorge
If you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of the huge city, Longqing Gorge (also known as Longqingxia Ravine) is one of the best places to visit around Beijing. It is a beautiful, deep gorge with an artificial lake running through it. You can get there by public transport, although the route is long and many changes are needed. For convenience, an organised tour may be the best option.
Once on site, the main activity is a boat ride that leaves from the main area. The boat can also drop you off in a remote part of the gorge, where you can explore the paths and reach a small Buddhist temple.
