Beijing 北京
Imperial landmarks, the Great Wall, and living hutong neighborhoods.
Why visit
Beijing is the clearest first stop for understanding China’s imperial story, monumental scale, and everyday neighborhood life.
How to plan your time
Give the Forbidden City and the Great Wall separate days. Add the Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, museums, or a hutong walk according to your interests and mobility.
Good route pairings
Continue by high-speed rail to Xi’an or Pingyao, add nearby Tianjin, or finish a classic first trip in Shanghai.
How to Get There
Beijing Capital and Beijing Daxing airports handle international arrivals. High-speed rail connects Beijing with most major cities.
Don't Miss
- Forbidden City
- Great Wall
- Temple of Heaven & hutongs
Must-See Attractions
Forbidden City
China’s best-known imperial palace complex.
Tip: Timed entry and passport details are normally required.
Great Wall
Mountain ridgelines and restored watchtowers outside the city.
Tip: Choose the section according to walking ability and crowds.
Temple of Heaven & hutongs
Ceremonial architecture and lived-in old neighborhoods.
Tip: Start early for local morning activity.
Where to Eat
Peking duck
Book a respected roast-duck restaurant.
Jianbing
A crisp savory crepe made to order.
Where to Stay
Dongcheng
Central for imperial sights and hutong walks.
Sanlitun / CBD
Dining, nightlife, and international hotels.
Tips & Practical Information
Getting around
Use metro or rail inside major cities and a private car for outlying heritage or nature sites. Keep station names and addresses saved in Chinese.
Book ahead
Reserve headline attractions and intercity trains early, especially for weekends, school holidays, and the May and October holiday periods.
Avoid the traps
Avoid overloading arrival and departure days. Allow time for security checks, station transfers, weather changes, and the walking level of your group.
What to pack
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a portable battery, a light rain layer, and clothing suited to the season and local elevation.