Beijing City Guide

Beijing is a city where imperial history meets modern dynamism. The Forbidden City remains the soul of the capital, a sprawling complex of wooden palaces that once housed generations of emperors. Just steps away, Tiananmen Square offers a vast space for reflection on China's modern history. For a glimpse into ancient spiritual life, the Temple of Heaven is a masterpiece of Ming architecture, where locals still gather at dawn to practice tai chi.

Beyond the majestic walls of the center, the winding lanes of the hutongs provide a window into the Beijing of old. These historic courtyard neighborhoods, particularly around Nanluoguxiang, are perfect for exploring on foot. No visit is complete without an excursion to the Great Wall; the Mutianyu section offers breathtaking views and a well-preserved stretch of the world's most famous fortification.

The city's contemporary side is just as compelling. The 798 Art District showcases Beijing's creative energy within repurposed industrial warehouses, while the Summer Palace offers a serene lakeside retreat. From savoring authentic Peking duck to navigating the bustling markets, Beijing is a city that rewards deep exploration.

Beyond the grand scale of the Forbidden City, Beijing reveals its charm in quieter, more intimate corners. Fayuan Temple, located in the historic Xicheng District, is the oldest Buddhist temple in the city. It remains a tranquil sanctuary focused on academic study rather than tourism. In the spring, the courtyards are famous for their blooming lilacs, offering a scent-filled retreat that feels worlds away from the urban bustle.

For a glimpse into modern local life, head to the Liangma River. Recently transformed into a scenic waterfront, this area has become the city’s favorite outdoor lounge. On any given evening, residents gather here to paddleboard, enjoy a drink by the water, or walk along the illuminated banks. It reflects a relaxed, contemporary side of Beijing that is rarely captured in traditional itineraries.

To witness the city's living heritage, visit the Baigongfang Museum of Handicrafts. Unlike traditional museums, this is a collection of active workshops where masters practice ancient arts like snuff bottle painting and jade carving. It provides a rare, hands-on look at the intricate craftsmanship that has defined the capital for centuries.

Beijing's subway system is vast, efficient, and the premier way to bypass the city's notorious traffic. With over 20 lines covering nearly every major landmark, navigation is straightforward thanks to bilingual signage and color-coded maps. Fares are distance-based, typically starting at ¥3. For surface travel, buses offer even more extensive reach at a lower cost, though they are subject to road congestion. Utilizing a mobile payment app like Alipay or WeChat Pay is highly recommended for seamless entry across all public transit.

For direct door-to-door service, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are indispensable. While traditional taxis are plentiful, Didi provides the advantage of upfront pricing and in-app translation for non-Chinese speakers. Walking is an excellent way to soak in the atmosphere of historic hutongs or the grandeur of central plazas, but be mindful of the city's massive scale. Shared bicycles are also ubiquitous, offering a flexible and cheap way to cover short distances for just a few yuan.

Travelers arriving at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) can take the Airport Express train for ¥25, while a taxi to the city center usually ranges from ¥100 to ¥150. From the newer Daxing International Airport (PKX), the high-speed rail costs about ¥30. A typical subway ride from the Forbidden City to the Summer Palace costs approximately ¥6, and short taxi hops within the central districts generally total between ¥20 and ¥40.

Beijing offers a shopping experience that bridges the gap between ancient traditions and ultra-modern luxury. For high-end fashion and international brands, head to the sleek boutiques of Sanlitun or the prestigious SKP Beijing, often ranked among the most profitable malls in the world. Wangfujing remains the city's iconic pedestrian street, blending massive department stores with historic shops that have stood for generations.

Budget-conscious travelers and treasure hunters should explore the city’s vibrant markets. The Panjiayuan Antique Market is a sprawling maze of curios, traditional art, and vintage finds, while the Hongqiao Pearl Market is the go-to spot for pearls and electronics. For a more local feel, the hutongs around Nanluoguxiang offer charming boutiques filled with artisanal crafts and unique souvenirs.

When shopping in Beijing, look for renowned local specialties such as fine silk, delicate cloisonné, and premium loose-leaf tea. Remember that while prices in malls are fixed, bargaining is a standard and expected practice in the traditional markets. Approach the process with a smile, and you’ll likely walk away with both a bargain and a memorable story.

In Beijing, tipping is generally not expected and is not a traditional part of the local culture. Most restaurants, bars, and taxis do not require a gratuity, and your gesture might even be politely declined. In high-end hotels or upscale international dining establishments, a service charge of 10% to 15% is often automatically added to the bill, making additional tips unnecessary.

For exceptional service from private tour guides or drivers, a small tip is a kind gesture but remains entirely at your discretion. All payments are made in Chinese Yuan (CNY), also referred to as the Renminbi (RMB); for reference, 1 US Dollar is currently worth approximately 7.20 CNY. In most daily interactions, a warm smile and a sincere thank you are the best ways to express your appreciation.

Autumn, specifically September and October, is widely considered the golden window to visit Beijing. During this time, the city enjoys crisp air, clear blue skies, and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the Great Wall or the Forbidden City. Spring follows closely as a runner-up, offering beautiful blossoms and moderate weather, though travelers should be mindful of occasional dust storms and the peak travel rush during the Labor Day holiday in early May.

Those seeking budget-friendly options might consider the cold, dry winter months when hotel prices drop and the crowds thin significantly. However, visitors should avoid major public holidays like Chinese New Year or the October Golden Week, as domestic tourism surges, leading to high prices and intense crowds. Summer brings heat and heavy rainfall, though the long daylight hours provide ample time for sightseeing if you do not mind the humidity.