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A magnificent ancient capital and gateway to China”
As the Chinese capital for more than 800 years, Beijing is one of the world’s oldest cities, with a rich history dating back three millennia. Formerly known as Peking, Beijing was the majestic home of the last three imperial dynasties of ancient China and as an integral component of China’s history, today boasts some of the finest remnants of the nation’s imperial past. Beijing is renowned for its traditional architecture and ancient heritage sites, including palaces, temples, parks, mausoleums and star of the show, the Great Wall, one of the world’s most impressive architectural feats in history. It seems there is scarcely a major building that doesn’t have at least some national historical significance and reminder of Beijing’s bygone times.
But this sprawling megacity located in northern China is also the world’s third most populous city proper and the nation’s cultural and political hub. Alongside Beijing’s wealth of ancient treasures are stunning modern developments, cityscapes and architectural designs that showcase the ultra-new face of the capital and full-speed tilt to the future. Highlights include the Bird’s Nest (Olympic National Stadium), the world’s largest steel structure ever constructed and 109-storey, CITIC Tower, the city’s tallest skyscraper.
Beijing is also gateway to the rest of this astounding country.
WHY WE THINK YOU’LL LOVE IT
A legacy of its splendid culture and ancient history, Beijing boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, most of which are China’s major tourist attractions
With its amazing cultural opportunities, the capital is an ideal place to enjoy Chinese performance arts and shows, from Peking Opera to Kung Fu and acrobatics shows
Whether watching dawn exercises at the Temple of Heaven, or sipping at traditional teahouses, Beijing offers numerous opportunities to soak-up daily local life
A delicious melting pot of regional cuisines from across China, along with Imperial dishes and celebrated local snacks, provides an unbridled culinary adventure
Beside historic sights, there are plenty of other capital experiences, including famed antiques markets, a dedicated art district and panda watching at the zoo
Within Easy Reach Of...
Shanghai
Flight: 2hrs 10mins - Bullet Train: 4hrs 30mins
Xian
Flight: 2hrs 20mins - Bullet Train: 6hrs
Guilin
Flight: 2hrs 15mins - Bullet Train: 11hrs
Travel Tips
Hike the iconic Great Wall of China, constructed more than 2,300 years ago and one of the ‘Eight Wonders of the World’ – head out to the quieter Mutianyu section
Explore the breathtaking Forbidden City, the world’s largest ancient palatial structure, combined with a visit to the iconic Tiananmen Square positioned next door
Stroll through the imperial gardens of the Summer Palace, a magnificent retreat for emperors and if weather permits, board the dragon boat on Kunming Lake
Take a cycle or rickshaw ride through the old-school Hutong neighbourhoods and get a fascinating glimpse into traditional local life of ordinary Beijingers
Feast on delicious Peking Duck, the world-famous Imperial court cuisine dish and top Beijing culinary speciality, roasted to succulent perfection
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In-Depth Knowledge with Local Insight