Beijing is the capital of China and is home to 21.33 million people. This city is full of great culture, history, architecture, food, and people. This can make it really hard to decide what to do while you are there. So, I have put together a list of the top 5 things you HAVE to do on your next trip to Beijing. This list includes some of the big ticket items, but also some hidden gems you may not have heard of…
1. Visit The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China needs little introduction. I am sure if you are planning to visit China you have thought about paying this wonder of the world a visit. From Beijing, the Mutianyu section of The Great Wall is the most popular among tourists as it is the longest and most restored section. In this section you can see 23-original watch towers and fantastic scenery. Making it a great choice to visit if you have the 3-4 hours to spare for the round trip.
2. The Ming Tombs
The Ming Tombs, also known as The Thirteen Tombs, is another must do on your Beijing bucket-list. This destination is listed as a World Heritage Site and is the resting place of 13 out of the 16 Emperors that reigned during the Ming Dynasty. However, you don’t have to know much about the history of Imperial China in order to appreciate these tombs. On your visit here, you will be able to see beautiful buildings, magnificent statues, see artifacts from Ancient China, and more.
3. Blend with the Locals
When you are in a city with as many sights to see as Beijing, it is very easy to get caught up in doing only the ‘touristy’ things. However, I can say from experience that blending with the locals is one of the richest experiences you can have in this city. One of my nights in Beijing ended with myself and a friend watching the soccer with some locals at an outdoor pub. We were sitting on milk cartons, drinking beer, and even though I didn’t speak a word of Chinese, I had a blast. It is one of my fondest memories of my time here, so seek out opportunities to experience Beijing like the locals do – you will not be disappointed!
4. The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is a complex of imperial palaces, located in the heart of Beijing – making it super convenient to visit. Also listed as a World Heritage Site, The Forbidden City is not only renowned for its significance to Chinese history and politics, but also its incredible architecture. Now, The Forbidden City is actually a museum which displayed valuable artefacts and artwork from Chinese history. It is a great place to indulge yourself with the history and culture of Beijing, and hopefully you will learn a few things along the way.
5. Houhai Lake
Houhai Lake area is a hidden gem located in the centre of Beijing and should definitely be on your list of things to do. The Houhai Lake offers one of the most versatile experiences here in Beijing. The lake offers beautiful scenery, laced with fantastic Chinese architecture. You can rent paddle boats to go on the lake, or just watch the traditional Chinese boats going up and down the canal. Either side of the canal are some of the best restaurants and bars Beijing has to offer. I had my favourite meal on my whole China trip right here. At night, the whole area is lit up with lights and lanterns of all different colours- it is absolutely stunning. I would suggest coming here, finding a restaurant to have a great meal and some drinks at, while sitting back and waiting for the sun to set. As it does, this place will turn into one of your favourite spots on your trip to Beijing.
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