Beijing Travel Guide
Preface:
Beijing, the capital of China, seamlessly blends ancient history with modernity. Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offers a deep dive into Chinese culture, history, and urban life.
Seasonal Travel Highlights:
• Spring (4-5): Mild weather, blooming flowers, and perfect for outdoor activities like visiting the parks and the Great Wall.
• Summer (6-8): Warm and lively, ideal for exploring palaces and enjoying seasonal fruits.
• Autumn (9-10): Cool, clear days with stunning fall foliage, making it the best season to visit Beijing.
• Winter (11-2): Quiet and less crowded; enjoy snow-covered landmarks and traditional hotpot meals.
About transportation, attractions and food.
1. By Air
① Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK):
• Metro: Take the Airport Express to Sanyuanqiao or Dongzhimen (approx. 30 minutes, ¥25).
• Airport Shuttle Buses: Connect to key areas like Wangfujing and Beijing West Railway Station (approx. 60–90 minutes, ¥25).
• Taxi: Travel to the city center takes around 45 minutes and costs ¥100–150, depending on traffic.
② Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX):
• High-Speed Train: From Daxing Airport Railway Station to Beijing West Station (approx. 25 minutes, ¥30).
• Airport Shuttle Buses: Operate to Wangfujing and CBD areas (approx. 70 minutes, ¥40).
• Taxi: Around 50–70 minutes, costing ¥200.
2. By Train
① Beijing Railway Station: Connected to Metro Line 2, it takes about 10–20 minutes to reach the city center by metro (¥3–5).
② Beijing South Railway Station: Served by Metro Line 4, reaching the city center takes about 30 minutes (¥5).
③ Beijing West Railway Station: Accessible via Metro Line 7 or 9, taking about 40 minutes to the city center (¥5).
3. City Transportation
① Metro: Beijing’s metro system is extensive, efficient, and affordable (¥2–10 based on distance).
② Bus: Good for short trips or suburban areas; fares start at ¥2.
③ Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Use apps like Didi for convenience; fares are generally ¥13 for the first 3 km.
④ Shared Bicycles: Perfect for exploring hutongs and parks, costing around ¥1.5 per ride.
1. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum):
• Description: Once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, this vast complex showcases China’s imperial history.
• Address: No. 4 Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng District.
• Tickets: ¥60; online reservation required.
• Highlights: Marvel at the imperial architecture, including the Hall of Supreme Harmony and Imperial Garden.
• Transportation:
• Metro: Line 1, Tiananmen East or West Station; 5-minute walk.
• Taxi: Approx. 20–30 minutes from most city-center locations; ¥30–¥50.
2. Tiananmen Square:
• Description: The world’s largest city square and a symbol of modern China, hosting national ceremonies and surrounded by iconic landmarks.
• Address: Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• Tickets: Free entry; nearby attractions like the National Museum may charge fees.
• Highlights: The Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People, and the daily flag-raising ceremony.
• Transportation: Metro Line 1 to Tiananmen East or Tiananmen West Station.
3. Temple of Heaven:
• Description: An ancient sacrificial site where emperors prayed for good harvests.
• Address: Tiantan Road, Dongcheng District.
• Tickets: ¥15 for the park; ¥30 for full access.
• Highlights: The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the Echo Wall.
• Transportation: Metro Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station, then a 5-minute walk.
4. The Summer Palace:
• Description: A majestic imperial garden with lakes, temples, and pavilions.
• Address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District.
• Tickets: ¥30 for entrance; combo tickets available for ¥60.
• Highlights: Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill, and the Marble Boat.
• Transportation: Metro Line 4 to Beigongmen Station, then a short walk.
5. The Great Wall (Badaling/Mutianyu):
① Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient defensive structure offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
• Mutianyu: A quieter, well-preserved section ideal for scenic photography.
• Badaling: The most popular section, offering easier access and facilities.
• Address: Mutianyu (Huairou District), Badaling (Yanqing District).
• Tickets: Mutianyu ¥40; Badaling ¥40; additional fees for cable cars.
• Highlights: Panoramic views, ancient watchtowers, and hiking trails.
②Transportation:
• Mutianyu: Tourist buses or private transfers (approx. 90 minutes from downtown).
• Badaling: Accessible by high-speed train from Beijing North Railway Station (approx. 60 minutes).
6. Qianmen Street & Dashilar:
• Description: A historic shopping and entertainment street combining traditional and modern culture.
• Address: Qianmen Street, Dongcheng District.
• Tickets: Free entry; individual shops may have charges.
• Highlights: Traditional architecture, specialty shops, and authentic local snacks.
• Transportation: Metro Line 2 to Qianmen Station.
① Peking Duck: A world-famous Beijing delicacy featuring crispy roasted duck skin, tender meat, and served with thin pancakes, sweet bean sauce, and fresh condiments.
② Fried Sauce Noodles: A classic Beijing noodle dish topped with savory fermented soybean paste, diced pork or beef, and fresh vegetables, offering a rich and hearty flavor.
③ Old Beijing Hot Pot: A traditional hotpot featuring thinly sliced lamb cooked in a copper pot with charcoal fire, accompanied by a light broth and flavorful dipping sauces.
④ Rolling Donkey ( Lvdagun ): A sweet traditional dessert made with glutinous rice and bean paste.
⑤ Candy Haws : A traditional snack of skewered hawthorn berries coated in a glossy, sweet caramelized sugar shell, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
