Precautions for first-time Beijing tourism
Beijing, China's capital, seamlessly blends millennia of history with modern dynamism. As home to iconic landmarks like the forbidden city, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven, it preserves traditional charm through Hutongs, gardens, and museums. Meanwhile, towering skyscrapers, efficient infrastructure, and vibrant arts scenes highlight its contemporary energy. With a 3,000-year history spanning dynasties and a population exceeding 21 million today, Beijing stands as a global metropolis and China's political, cultural, and educational hub.
IntoTravelChina's latest Beijing guide delivers essential insights: top attractions, local hotspots, featured activities, optimal travel times, transport tips, and nearby travel recommendations. Paired with carefully designed itineraries, it helps travelers efficiently experience Beijing's royal grandeur, urban vitality, and Hutong life, offering practical advice for an unforgettable journey.
Precautions for traveling to Beijing
Planning a trip to Beijing? A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. To help you get ready, we’ve compiled a series of practical guides covering essential topics—from transportation tips and optimal travel times to must-see attractions and local activities. These resources will equip you with valuable insights to navigate the city with ease!
Beijing's top attractions include the iconic Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square,Temple of Heaven Park, Yonghegong, Beihai Park, and the National Museum of China, showcasing the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Unlock Beijing’s wildest side: chug stinky Douzhi soup, bike through labyrinthine hutongs, and party like a 1920s flapper. From night-hiking the Great Wall to eating lamb brain hotpot, this guide dives into the capital’s quirkiest adventures. Survive the chaos, snap Instagram gold, and leave with stories your friends won’t believe.
the authentic Chinese style life in the hutongs and courtyards
These niche places are unknown to tourists from other places!
Niujie Mosque is the largest and oldest mosque in Beijing and one of the world's most famous mosques, covering an area of about 6,000 square meters, combining the style of an ancient Chinese palace with an Arabic mosque.
Houhai Bar Street vs Qianhai Lotus Banquet
Unlocking the Slow Life of Old Beijing
why isn't there a tree in the Hall of Supreme Harmony?
The most popular attractions in Beijing
Beijing, a city where ancient history meets modern innovation, offers a captivating blend of timeless wonders and dynamic attractions. From the majestic Great Wall and imperial Forbidden City to the life atmosphere Hutongs and futuristic Olympic Park, its most popular sites embody China's rich heritage and contemporary spirit.
The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace Museum, is the largest and best-preserved wooden ancient palace complex globally. Built between 1406 and 1420 under Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty, it served as the imperial residence for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties until 1912. Covering 720,000 square meters with 8,707 rooms, the palace complex symbolizes China’s imperial grandeur and architectural mastery. Its yellow-glazed roof tiles, red walls, and symmetrical layout reflect Confucian ideals and cosmic order. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it now houses over 1.8 million cultural relics, offering a glimpse into China’s imperial past.
The Great Wall, a colossal fortification and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world’s longest defensive barrier, stretching over 21,196 kilometers across northern China. Built incrementally from the 7th century BCE to the 17th century CE, it symbolizes China’s resilience, strategic ingenuity, and imperial ambition. Originally constructed to protect against nomadic invasions, the Wall evolved into a cultural icon, blending military architecture with natural landscapes. Today, it stands as a testament to human endurance, with sections like Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling offering breathtaking vistas and historical insights.
The Summer Palace (Yíhéyuán) is China’s grandest imperial garden, blending natural landscapes with architectural artistry. Built between 1750 and 1764 under Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, it served as a royal retreat for emperors and empresses to escape Beijing’s summer heat. Destroyed by Anglo-French forces in 1860 and rebuilt in 1886, it became Empress Dowager Cixi’s opulent escape, draining the navy’s budget for renovations. Spanning 2.9 square kilometers, the garden features Kunming Lake (75% water) and Longevity Hill (25% land), with over 3,000 ancient pavilions, corridors, and temples. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998, it epitomizes Chinese garden philosophy—harmonizing humanity with nature.
The Temple of Heaven (Tiāntán), a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, is China’s most sacred imperial sacrificial complex. Built in 1420 under Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty, it served as the ritual ground for emperors to pray for good harvests and communicate with heaven for 500 years. Covering 2.73 million square meters—four times larger than the Forbidden City—its circular mounds, blue-tiled roofs, and acoustically engineered structures symbolize the ancient Chinese belief in the "Mandate of Heaven." Unlike earthly palaces, its design emphasizes humility, with no residential buildings, reflecting imperial submission to cosmic order.
The Lama Temple, or Yonghe Lamasery (Yǒnghé Gōng), is Beijing’s most revered Tibetan Buddhist sanctum, blending imperial grandeur with mystical spirituality. Built in 1694 as the residence of Emperor Yongzheng (then Prince Yong), it transformed into a lamasery in 1744 under Qianlong, becoming China’s foremost center for Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) Buddhism. Crowned with golden pinnacles and adorned with 10,000 deities, its five courtyards—from the Hall of Harmony and Peace to the Wheel of Law Hall—unfold like a celestial scroll. Destroyed by fire in 1796 and rebuilt, it survived the 1966–76 Cultural Revolution as a "factory" before reopening in 1981. Today, it attracts 4 million pilgrims annually, its incense-wreathed halls echoing with chants and the clink of offering bowls.
Gubei Water Town, a meticulously reconstructed Ming-Qing-style village nestled at the foot of the Simatai Great Wall in Beijing’s Miyun District, is a fusion of history, culture, and idyllic waterfront charm. Opened in 2010, it replicates the architectural essence of ancient Chinese border towns, featuring cobblestone streets, canals, and traditional courtyard homes. Spanning 9 square kilometers, the town serves as a gateway to the UNESCO-listed Simatai Great Wall and offers visitors a nostalgic journey through China’s past with lantern-lit evenings, folk performances, and historic workshops.
The Prince Gong's Mansion (Gong Wang Fu), a masterpiece of Qing Dynasty aristocratic architecture, is one of China’s best-preserved historical residences. Built between 1776 and 1785 under Emperor Qianlong, it originally served as the private estate of He Shen, one of China’s most infamous officials, before becoming the home of Prince Gong (Yixin) in 1851. Spanning 60,000 square meters, the mansion blends Han Chinese and Manchu architectural styles, featuring 30 exquisite buildings, tranquil gardens, and symbolic decorations that reflect imperial aesthetics and Confucian ideals. Designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit in 1982, it now offers visitors a vivid glimpse into 19th-century Qing nobility life.
Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest urban public plaza (440,000 m²), is the beating heart of China’s political and cultural identity. Built in 1417 as the ceremonial gateway to the Imperial City during the Ming Dynasty, it was renamed "Gate of Heavenly Peace" (Tiān’ānmén) in 1651. Redesigned in 1958 as a "People’s Square," it has witnessed emperors, revolutions, and modern triumphs—from Mao Zedong’s 1949 proclamation of the People’s Republic to annual National Day parades. Flanked by the Forbidden City, Monument to the People’s Heroes, and Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, it symbolizes China’s journey from imperial feudalism to socialist modernity.
Top 10 travel guides in Beijing
Discover Beijing’s essence through our curated collection of top 10 guides, designed to highlight the capital’s most iconic experiences and hidden treasures. From must-see landmarks and authentic cuisine to cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path adventures, these rankings help you effortlessly tailor your journey to match your interests and travel style.
-
Beijing's Top 10 Must-Try Experiences: Dive into the Heart of China's Capital 10 ways to experience every aspect of Beijing! -
Top 10 Must-See Sights in Beijing: Essential Attractions for Every Visitor Beijing's top attractions include the iconic Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square,Temple of Heaven Park, Yonghegong, Beihai Park, and the National Museum of China, showcasing the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
-
Top 10 Cultural Treasures at Yonghe Temple (with Bracelet Blessing Guide) Discover the top 10 cultural treasures of Yonghe Temple—must-sees for any Beijing trip. Includes bracelet blessing tips, purchase guide, rituals, and hidden gems to help you plan efficiently and return full of good fortune.
-
Top 10 Cafes in Hutongs & Artsy Quarters This article introduces the top 10 coffee shops in Beijing's hutongs and cultural districts, integrating Beijing's tourism and cultural elements, and providing detailed store exploration guides. Whether you're looking for a quiet corner or experiencing the fusion of tradition and modernity, these cafes are must visit places to check in.
-
Beijing's Top 10 Food Streets: Culinary Hotspots Beijing tourism is not to be missed! This article recommends top 10 food streets, covering authentic Beijing snacks such as spicy crayfish, halal snacks, and old Beijing flavors, allowing you to fully enjoy Beijing's food culture.
-
Top 10 Beijing Hutongs to Explore Explore the top 10 characteristic hutongs in Beijing, experience the collision of old Beijing's charm and modern art, and gain a deeper understanding of local culture in Beijing. Whether it's the hustle and bustle of Nanluoguxiang or the simplicity of Caochang Hutong, they are treasures among Beijing's tourist attractions, not to be missed!
Best Things to Do in Beijing
Beijing, a city where time-honored traditions thrive alongside modern marvels, invites travelers to savor its vibrant soul through unforgettable experiences. From tantalizing your taste buds with crispy Peking duck and crafting Tanghulu in bustling hutongs, to immersing in the artistry of Peking Opera, the capital offers a dynamic blend of cultural treasures and hands-on adventures that capture China’s essence.
Specific guide for visiting Beijing
Beijing, a city where ancient history meets modern innovation, offers a captivating blend of timeless wonders and dynamic attractions. From the majestic Great Wall and imperial Forbidden City to the vibrant 798 Art District and futuristic Olympic Park, its most popular sites embody China's rich heritage and contemporary spirit.
Tian'anmen Square | Forbidden City | Jingshan Park | Summer Palace | Great Wall | Bird Nest | The Ming Tombs | Temple of Heaven | Hutongs | Yonghegong Temple
Tian'anmen Square | Forbidden City | Jingshan Park | Summer Palace | Great Wall | Bird Nest | Temple of Heaven | Hutongs
Tian'anmen Square | Forbidden City | Jingshan Park | Great Wall | Bird Nest | Temple of Heaven | Hutongs
Tian'anmen Square | Forbidden City | Temple of Heaven | Jingshan Park | Hutongs
Beijing Travel Itineraries
Beijing's diverse travel itineraries cater to every interest, blending ancient wonders and modern marvels into unforgettable journeys. Whether exploring imperial history through the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, savoring culinary delights in hutong courtyards, or diving into avant-garde art in 798 District, tailored routes let you craft a Beijing adventure that mirrors your passions—from cultural immersion to urban exploration.
What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
