At the core of China, Beijing boasts a history that extends back over three millennia. It's a city where ancient emperors and dynasties have left their mark, evident in its architecture. Stroll through the narrow hutongs and alleyways to catch glimpses of historical residential life. Notably, a visit to Beijing offers the chance to explore the Great Wall of China, a significant wonder that stretches across the city's northern landscape.
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The Forbidden City
Known as the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City earned its name because common people were not allowed to enter without proper authorization. It's a complex of opulent palaces, halls, and courtyards enclosed by grand walls and guarded by watchtowers. It served as the exclusive residence of over 24 Chinese emperors for nearly five centuries.
Take note of the design as it reflects traditional Chinese cosmology, with its alignment, color scheme, and layout. Red symbolizes good fortune and happiness, while yellow symbolizes power.
Tips:
Passport is required for entry.
Jingshan Park provides a hilltop view of the whole complex.
Tiananmen Square
Adjacent to the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square ironically meaning "Gate of Heavenly Peace," is the world's largest public square and holds immense historical and political significance. It played a central role in the founding of the People's Republic of China through in1949 and later became a focal point during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. Surrounded by significant monuments and government structures, the square features the Monument to the People's Heroes, dedicated to those who lost their lives in revolutionary struggles.
Temple of Heaven
Built during the Ming Dynasty, this temple served as a sacred site for emperors to perform annual rituals, specifically the "Heavenly Sacrifice," to ensure a good harvest. The complex features the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a sacred space for prayer to the gods, and the Circular Mound Altar, where crucial sacrificial ceremonies took place. The temple's design incorporates symbols of yin and yang to represent balance, squares to represent Earth, and circles representing heaven.
The Lama Temple
Visit this Tibetan Buddhist temple, also known as the Yonghe Temple, home to an impressive 18-meter-tall Buddha statue carved from a single sandalwood tree. Visiting offers a cultural immersion by learning about Tibetan Buddhist rituals, teachings, and the daily lives of resident monks.
Summer Palace
An expansive imperial garden that served as a retreat for Chinese emperors during the Qing Dynasty. Walk through the temples and pagodas of Longevity Hill, take a traditional boat ride on Kunming Lake, or ascend to the Tower of Buddhist Incense for views of the surrounding area.
Wangfujing Street
Taste a variety of local street foods and snacks along this bustling strip in central Beijing. The main street features larger department stores, while markets are located on the side streets. Explore nearby alleys to find local restaurants serving authentic Beijing cuisine, like the famous Peking duck. The Wangfujing Night Market, also known as Donghuamen Snack Street to locals, is open daily from 6 PM to 9 PM, offering a diverse selection from over 100 food stalls.
Beihai Park
Relax in this historic imperial garden, featuring ancient temples, pavilions, and the iconic White Dagoba. Visit the Nine-Dragon Screen and the Five-Dragon Pavilions, reflecting traditional Chinese art and symbolism or relax at one of the traditional teahouses within the park
The Great Wall
Discover one of the world's renowned landmarks, recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Spanning over thirteen thousand miles, each section of the wall provides a unique experience, from panoramic views to navigating varying terrains or observing its nightly illumination:
Badaling- Most popular due to its accessibility, well-preserved fortifications, and stunning views.
Mutianyu- A balance of natural beauty and historical significance as it served as a military stronghold.
Jingshanling- Offers a more challenging hike because the wall is not completely intact.
Simatai- The only section where you can witness The Great Wall illuminated at night.
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