Beijing Travel Guides

Reference WW39787

Beijing is city awash with lively neighbourhoods, there’s plenty for overseas visitors to enjoy. Whether you’d like to unwind and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of day-to-day life, or head to the landmark attractions - Beijing won’t disappoint. Have your camera ready for the awe-inspiring religious sites of Beijing. The tranquil site of the Confucius Temple is a must-see, wander the Hall of Great Accomplishment a dedicated shrine to the great Chinese teacher, Confucius, himself. Other highlights are the 18th-century Buddhist Big Bell Temple, home to 400 historic bells and gongs, and the unusual, circular Temple of Heavens.

Shopping in Beijing

Shopping is a delight in Beijing, and the haggling and bargain-hunting is a cultural experience.

Walking and bargaining in the countless markets in Xiu Shui Jie Shopping Mall or the Xiu Shui Market will no doubt build up an appetite but luckily there are plenty of food stalls where shoppers can refuel. Bargaining is an essential skill and an expected part of the transaction but remember to keep smiling.

The main shopping area is around Wangfujing Dajie, where a number of department stores can be found, including the Beijing Department Store. The Xidan area offers wonderful big department stores selling fixed-price goods including electronic equipment. The Hong Qiao Market is a popular indoor market in the south-central area of Beijing, where bargaining is expected.

Panjiayuan Collectors Market is an outdoor market with a good array of arts and crafts from all over China, including popular Beijing souvenirs like jade bracelets, cloisonné and lacquerware, silk, calligraphy, porcelain and vintage Cultural Revolution books and posters. The Maliandao Tea Street is the best place to find anything associated with tea, including tables, tea sets and a wide variety of teas; it can be found in the southwestern Xuanwu District, near the Beijing West Railway Station.

Must see attractions in Beijing

Beijing's most interesting attractions previously only related to the spectacular history of China's capital city: these wonderful examples of ancient innovations and well-preserved glimpses into millennia of Chinese history are still here, but the city is no longer only viewed as a large-scale museum. Currently, eye-catching structures and modern architectural wonders are among the city's most visited attractions. These include the National Stadium, better known as the Bird's Nest, and the National Grand Theatre, known as the Eggshell. It is no surprise that some traditionalists believe the modern attractions detract from the city's ancient treasures, but many more enjoy the stark contrast.

Still, the iconic historic Beijing sites remain the most popular. The Great Wall of China and the mysterious Forbidden City at the heart of Beijing compete for the title of the city's most visited attraction. Beihai Park and the Summer Palace are also immensely popular. For truly ancient history, visit the Zhoukoudian Cave, which boasts the largest collection of Homo Erectus fossils in the world. More recent history can be explored at the infamous Tiananmen Square or the Chairman Mao Mausoleum.

Being able to walk through some of the world's most ancient and modern attractions in a single day makes Beijing eternally captivating.