Top Reasons to Visit Beijing

Beijing, China's capital city, is a vibrant mix of history and modernity. Having served as the capital of the country for more than 800 years, it is home to some of the finest remnants of China's imperial past. Beijing is brightened by its glorious past, but is by no means struck in the past. Behind its rich and complex historical tapestries, everyday life unfolds with bewildering variety. From the commanding austerity of the Forbidden City to the hectic bar street at Sanlitun, Beijing is overflowing with a unique charm, beckoning visitors from around the world to lose themselves in the furious pace. You may list hundreds of reasons to visit Beijing, but the following reasons should be on the top of the list. You can also check out recommended top things to do, attractions and destinations to visit in China

1. Numerous Historical Monuments

Temple of Heaven in BeijingBeijing boasts a history of more than 3,000 years, of which more than 800 years were as the national capital. It has many places of historic interest, including: the Temple of Heaven, where ancient emperors performed solemn rituals for bountiful harvests; the Summer Palace, ancient emperors summer retreat; and the Ming Tombs, the mausoleum of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty.

2. World's Grandest Tourist Sights

The Great Wall of ChinaBeijing holds many magnificent sights that set national or even world records, including: Tian'anmen Square, the largest city square in the world; the Forbidden City, the largest and best preserved ancient architectural complex in the world; and the Great Wall, the longest man-made structure in the world.

3. Post-Olympic Atomosphere

Bird's NestBeijing magnificently hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics. The city as well as the whole nation geared up enthusiastically for the Games. The city has become even more beautiful and the air cleaner as a result. A visit to the Olympic site will offer you an aftertaste of the glorious moments of this magnificent event, and a chance to view a couple of architectural marvels holding state-of-the-art sports facilities.

4. Unique Local Culture

Hutongs in BeijingOne of the major attractions in Beijing are the zigzagging Hutongs, an integral part of Beijings local culture. Created in the 13th Century, the Hutongs are actually small public alleys with private courtyard residences. It is the way Old Beijing used to be. Hutongs are like folk-custom museums, presenting a window into a traditional way of life intertwined with the old architecture and maze of narrow streets.

5. Lively Outdoor Market

Panjiayuan Antique MarketBeijing has several shopping districts offering a mind-boggling variety of goods. Besides the traditional shopping districts, including Wangfujing Street and Qianmen Street, the lively outdoor markets should not be missed by foreign travelers. Check out Panjiayuan "Antiques" Market and Xiushui Street for local specialties such as fresh-water pearls, antiques, silk, and much more.

6. Colorful Nightlife

Performance in Laoshi Tea HouseAs the capital city of China, Beijing attracts people from all over the country and the world. The diversity and vitality of the city has endowed Beijing with a varied and colorful nightlife. Lots of people choose to relax themselves in the bars. The numerous shows and performances, including Peking Opera and acrobatics, are attractive to lovers of live entertainment.

7. Accommodation of All Levels

Beijing Hotels

Beijing has great appeal to both domestic and international travelers. To cater for the booming tourist industry, Beijing provides accommodation that can meet all budget levels, including boutique hotels, star-rated hotels, hostels and inns.

8. Convenient Transportation

Beijing International Airport

As the nation's capital, Beijing is the center of domestic transportation. It also has many international direct flights to major cities of the world. Air and rail connections link Beijing to virtually every point in China, and fleets of buses head to destinations around Beijing.

How to Plan a Beijing Tour

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Hi, I'm Candice Song
I updated this article on April 25, 2013
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Q: Tawna Swift Asked on 2012-03-16 Reply
What is the best way to get around Bejing on a budget as a tourist?
Dear Tawna, The budget way for visiting Beijing could goes to stay at tourist class (3-stat) hotel and join group tours in Beijing. I send your a detailed quotaiton based on this. Please check your mail box and feel free contact me for any question. Sincerely yours, Nancy Nancy Deng Replied on 2012-03-17
Q: Mirza Waqar Baig Asked on 2011-05-18 Reply
Hi kindly inform how i manage my tour as i arrived Bejing from where i start & finish . Waqar
Mirza, have you booked your China trip with China Highlights? If so, please contact your travel advisor for details. If you have not booked anything yet, you could forward your request and questions to me (karen@chinahighlights.com) or reach me via 86-773-2810927 (8:00-16:00 from Mon. to Fri.) Karen Karen Yang Replied on 2011-05-19