What to Do When Traveling to Beijing: A Local’s Guide

Ah, Beijing—the sprawling capital of China that boasts a magnificent blend of ancient history and ultramodern flair. If you’re like me, the moment you step into this city, it’s as if you’re embarking on a vibrant journey through time. With its rich tapestry of culture, breathtaking sights, and mouthwatering cuisine, spending time in Beijing is a feast for the senses. So grab your passport, put on those walking shoes, and let’s explore what you should do when traveling to this captivating metropolis!

Getting the Lay of the Land

Before diving into the intricacies of Beijing’s offerings, let’s take a moment to get acquainted with the city layout. Beijing is a massive city divided into various districts. The heart of the city is often considered the Dongcheng District, where you can find attractions like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the National Museum of China. In the northwest lies the Haidian District, home to the beautiful Summer Palace. The distinct blend of modern and traditional architecture will catch your eye as you navigate through its many avenues.

Local Tip: Navigating the Subway

Beijing’s subway system is an efficient lifeline that can whisk you across the city in no time. It’s affordable, relatively easy to navigate, and the signs are available in English, which makes it traveler-friendly. Grab a Beijing Transportation Smart Card (Yikatong) upon arrival. This nifty card can be used on subways, buses, and even in some convenience stores—a great way to save time without fumbling for change!

Must-See Attractions

1. The Forbidden City

Let’s begin with the jewel of Beijing—The Forbidden City! This UNESCO World Heritage site served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. As you stroll through its magnificent gates, prepare to be mesmerized by the sprawling courtyards, intricate architecture, and rich history that almost whispers stories of the past.

Don’t Miss: The Palace Museum, which houses a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts. If you can, arrange a guided tour to get the insider scoop on key historical events and intriguing tidbits about the emperors. And don’t forget to bring your camera—it’s Instagram heaven!

2. Tiananmen Square

Just a stone’s throw away from The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square is another must-visit. This vast public space is surrounded by historical sites, including the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall and the National Museum. Spend some time here to absorb the atmosphere and people-watch—there’s always something happening!

Cultural Insight: Be respectful when visiting the square, especially when it comes to government buildings and monuments. Remember, this site holds significant political importance, and locals typically maintain a serious demeanor when discussing it.

3. The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu Section)

No visit to Beijing is complete without conquering a section of the Great Wall of China. For a more serene experience, head to the Mutianyu section, which combines stunning scenery with fewer crowds than the more popular Badaling section. The hike up may take some effort, but the breathtaking views make it more than worth it.

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain can be uneven in places. If you want a unique experience, consider tobogganing down the wall once you’ve soaked in the sights! It’s a thrilling way to end your trek.

4. The Summer Palace

If you’re seeking tranquility, The Summer Palace is where you’ll find it. With its expansive gardens, lakes, and palatial halls, it’s an ideal escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Take a leisurely boat ride on Kunming Lake, and don’t miss the iconic Long Corridor, adorned with more than 14,000 beautiful paintings.

Local Recommendation: Visit in the early morning to experience the park practicing Tai Chi; you’ll witness locals rejuvenating their spirits as the sun begins to rise.

Immersing Yourself in Local Culture

5. Explore the Hutongs

Getting lost in Beijing’s hutongs—the narrow alleys that wind through the city’s traditional neighborhoods—is like stepping back into time. These thriving communities are filled with history, local shops, and family-run eateries. A stroll through hutongs such as Nanluoguxiang will offer glimpses of traditional courtyard homes beautifully juxtaposed with modern cafes and quirky boutiques.

Culinary Insight: Stop by a small vendor and try a “jiaozi” (dumpling). Nothing beats the flavor of freshly made dumplings combined with a bite-sized snapshot of local life.

6. Beijing Opera

Experience the thrilling art of Beijing Opera for a journey into the cultural depths of China. Known for its elaborate costumes and intense performances, catching a show at the Liyuan Theatre will leave you spellbound.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to witness the performers putting on their makeup and costumes. It’s an intriguing part of the art form that gives insight into the dedication that goes into each performance.

Culinary Adventures

If you fancy yourself a foodie, Beijing is your playground! From street snacks to fine dining, the culinary choices are as diverse as the city itself.

7. Peking Duck

You simply can’t leave Beijing without indulging in its iconic dish—Peking Duck. Head to Quanjude or Da Dong for an authentic dining experience. The crispy skin and succulent meat are served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. It’s a dish that exemplifies culinary excellence and reflects the city’s long-standing culinary traditions.

8. Street Food Heaven

If you’re daring enough, wander into any of the street food markets (Wangfujing Snack Street, anyone?). Here, you’ll find an array of delicacies ranging from candied apples to scorpions on a stick. If you’re feeling adventurous, give one of those protein-packed critters a try!

Travel Tip: Always keep an eye on cleanliness, and follow the locals’ lead on where to indulge. If there’s a long queue, it usually means the food is worth the wait.

Festivals and Traditions

Researching local festivals can enhance your trip, allowing you to immerse yourself deeper into Chinese culture.

9. Chinese New Year (Spring Festival)

If you have the chance to travel during the Chinese New Year, grab it! The entire city transforms with colorful decorations, lion dances, and firecrackers. You can witness the excitement in every neighborhood. Beeld apart, the Temple of Heaven is known to be buzzing with traditional performances and local festivities.

Cultural Insight: This festival is all about family reunions, paying respects to ancestors, and hoping for a prosperous year ahead. Engaging in local traditions will deepen your appreciation of the culture.

Nature Escapes

Beijing isn’t entirely urban—there are places where you can connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful retreat.

10. The Fragrant Hills Park

If you’re in the mood for a hike, head to the Fragrant Hills Park. This oasis on the outskirts of the city offers numerous trails, especially lovely in autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and yellow. The view from the top of the hill, overlooking the cityscape below, is a must-see.

Travel Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic spots. It’s lovely to sit back and take in the surrounding beauty while munching on local treats.

Shopping Delights

No trip is complete without a little retail therapy, and Beijing has an array of shopping options that cater to every budget.

11. Silk Market and Pearl Market

Shopaholics shouldn’t miss the Silk Market and the Pearl Market, where you can browse through stunning silk garments, cashmere, and an assortment of pearls and jewelry. Remember, haggling is expected! Don’t be shy—start lower than what you’re willing to pay and have fun with it.

12. Wangfujing Street

If you’re in the mood for some high-street shopping, Wangfujing Street is the place to be. With its glamorous malls and a pedestrian street bustling with both shops and food stands, it’s one of Beijing’s most famous shopping destinations.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Once the sun sets, the city comes alive with vibrant nightlife. Whether you prefer cozy pubs or extravagant clubs, Beijing has it all.

13. Sanlitun Bar Street

Sanlitun is the epicenter of nightlife in Beijing. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and clubs. I found the atmosphere to be welcoming, with plenty of international options for those who crave familiarity.

Local Recommendation: Try out the vibrant “Xiu” club for a unique blend of music and energy, or sip cocktails at “Jiang Xin,” known for its sophisticated ambiance.

Practical Tips for Traveling in Beijing

Before you set out, here are some useful tips:

• Language: While you can get by with English in tourist areas, learning a few basic Chinese phrases will endear you to locals. Simple greetings like “Ni hao” (hello) and “Xie xie” (thank you) go a long way!

• Cash is King: Although mobile payments (WeChat and Alipay) are hugely popular in China, not all establishments accept international cards. Always keep some cash on hand for smaller vendors and markets.

• Be Mindful of Etiquette: When dining, avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in rice (as it resembles funeral rituals). It’s considered bad manners, and sticking to general etiquette will ensure positive interactions.

• Traffic Etiquette: Crosswalks are your friends, and do pay attention to the traffic rules—vehicles have the right of way, so be cautious while navigating busy streets.

Final Thoughts

Traveling in Beijing is an adventure through a vibrant historical tapestry, delicious cuisine, and remarkable cultural experiences. Whether you’re roaming the stunning pathways of the Forbidden City, indulging in the cuisine that ticks every box, or making friends among the lively hutongs, every moment spent in Beijing will leave you yearning for more.

Don’t rush—take time to immerse yourself in the warmth of the locals, let serendipity guide your exploration, and embrace the new experiences that await you in this enchanting city. Safe travels!