ABOUT Beijing

Introduction to Beijing:
Beijing, the capital of China, is a city where ancient history and modern development exist in perfect harmony. With a history spanning over 3,000 years and serving as the capital for several dynasties, Beijing houses an unparalleled treasure trove of cultural and historical sites, including six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the magnificent Forbidden City and the winding Great Wall to serene imperial gardens and bustling traditional hutongs, Beijing offers visitors a journey through China's imperial past while showcasing its emergence as a global power. This carefully crafted 7-day itinerary allows you to experience Beijing's iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and authentic local life at a comfortable pace, providing insights into both traditional Chinese culture and the city's rapid modernization.

7-Day Beijing Itinerary:

DAY 1: 

Arrival in Beijing and transfer to hotel.

• Airport/train station pickup and transfer to your accommodation.
• Free time to rest and recover from travel.
• Optional activities: Depending on arrival time, take a leisurely walk around your hotel area or enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Beijing's famous Peking duck.

DAY 2: 

Beijing's imperial heart.

• Tiananmen Square: Start your day at the world's largest public square, the political heart of China, flanked by important buildings including the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum of China.
• Forbidden City (Palace Museum): Explore this enormous imperial palace complex, home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Marvel at the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world and the exquisite treasures housed within its 9,999 rooms.
• Jingshan Park: Climb this artificial hill created from the soil excavated to build the Forbidden City's moat. From the pavilion at the summit, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City and the entire central axis of Beijing.

DAY 3: 

The Great Wall and modern Beijing.

• Mutianyu Great Wall: Visit this well-preserved, less crowded section of the Great Wall located about 70km from Beijing. The section features 23 watchtowers and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can ascend by cable car or on foot, and descend by toboggan for a thrilling experience.
• Olympic Park: Explore the main venue area of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, featuring impressive modern architecture.
• Bird's Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (National Aquatics Center): Admire the exterior of these iconic Olympic venues known for their innovative designs. The Bird's Nest is famous for its distinctive steel structure resembling a bird's nest, while the Water Cube features a unique bubble-like facade.

DAY 4: 

Imperial gardens and temples.

• Summer Palace: Spend the morning at this vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces that served as the imperial retreat. Wander through the Long Corridor, admire Kunming Lake, and explore the various pavilions and temples within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Tsinghua University (exterior view): Drive by one of China's most prestigious universities to admire its beautiful campus that incorporates both traditional Chinese architecture and Western influences.
• Temple of Heaven: Visit this imperial complex where emperors performed important ceremonies to pray for good harvests. Admire the magnificent Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests with its unique triple-gabled circular architecture, and explore the surrounding park where locals gather for traditional activities.

DAY 5: 

Traditional Beijing life and culture.

• Prince Gong's Mansion: Visit the best-preserved imperial mansion in Beijing, once home to a powerful Qing Dynasty official. The complex features beautiful traditional architecture, gardens, and exhibits on aristocratic life in imperial China.
• Hutong Rickshaw Tour: Experience old Beijing's charm with a traditional rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys of Shichahai area. Visit a local family home to gain insight into traditional courtyard living and the transformation of these historic neighborhoods.
• Beihai Park: Explore one of China's oldest and largest imperial gardens, featuring a large lake, ancient temples, and the distinctive White Dagoba on Jade Flower Island. This former imperial garden offers beautiful landscapes and historic pavilions dating back to the 10th century.

DAY 6: 

Religious and scholarly heritage.

• Lama Temple (Yonghe Gong): Visit Beijing's most magnificent Tibetan Buddhist temple, featuring five halls of beautiful statuary, including an 18-meter-tall Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood.
• Nanluoguxiang Alley: Wander through this popular 800-year-old narrow alleyway lined with traditional courtyard homes, now housing boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants that blend traditional architecture with modern businesses.
• Imperial Academy (Guozijian): Explore China's highest educational institution during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, where scholars prepared for imperial examinations. Adjacent to the Confucius Temple, this historic site offers insight into traditional Chinese education and Confucian values.

DAY 7: 

Departure from Beijing.

• Morning at leisure for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation.
• Airport/train station transfer according to your departure schedule.

Travel Tips for Beijing:

• Beijing's weather varies dramatically by season. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather.
• Major attractions like the Forbidden City and Great Wall can be crowded, especially during national holidays.
• Beijing subway is an efficient way to avoid traffic congestion for destinations within the city.
• Always carry bottled water, especially when visiting outdoor attractions like the Great Wall.
• Air quality can vary, so checking pollution levels daily is advisable.