Beijing
Population: 21.540.000
Since: Founded around 1045 BC
Ville capitale
Introduction
Beijing is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern life, where traditional hutongs coexist with towering skyscrapers. Visitors are often struck by the city's rich cultural heritage, from the Forbidden City to the Great Wall, offering a glimpse into China's imperial past.
However, the city's vastness can be overwhelming. Traffic congestion is common, and navigating public transport may require patience. The air quality can also be a concern, especially during winter months, so plan accordingly.
En images
Sightseeing
Forbidden City: the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties
Great Wall of China: a monumental feat of ancient engineering
Temple of Heaven: a stunning example of Ming architecture
Tiananmen Square: a historically significant public space
Summer Palace: a beautiful imperial garden and retreat
Beijing National Stadium: known as the Bird's Nest, a modern architectural marvel
Lama Temple: a serene Tibetan Buddhist temple
Hutongs: traditional alleyways that showcase local life
Things to do
Explore the Great Wall: hike different sections for varied experiences
Visit a tea house: enjoy traditional tea ceremonies
Take a rickshaw ride: experience the charm of hutongs
Attend a Peking opera: immerse yourself in local performing arts
Principales attractions
Forbidden City
The largest ancient palatial structure in the world
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Since 1420
Great Wall of China
A UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of China
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM Since 7th century BC
Summer Palace
A stunning imperial garden with beautiful lakes
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Since 1750
Temple of Heaven
A masterpiece of Chinese architecture and landscape design
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Since 1420
À savoir
Beware of tourist traps near major attractions, such as overpriced souvenirs
Public transport can be crowded, especially during rush hours
Air quality can affect outdoor activities, check forecasts
Language barriers may complicate navigation and dining
À faire et à éviter
Try local street food for an authentic taste
Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance interactions
Respect local customs, especially in temples
Bargain politely at markets for better prices
Don't engage with aggressive street vendors
Don't expect all signs to be in English
Don't take photos in restricted areas, especially military sites
Don't assume taxis will have GPS; have your destination written down
Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons