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Beijing, China has a number of sites from historical palaces and market shopping to dining and the Arts, that are a must-see for any traveler to this ancient Asian city. Whether spending a week in Beijing or just a few days, these are the ten best sites that are essential to any trip to this ancient Chinese city.

Visiting Beijing: Top things to do

Beijing is the capital of the People’s Republic of China. It is the world’s most populous national capital city, with over 21 million residents within an administrative area of 16,410.5 km² (6336 sq. mi.). Nevertheless, its built-up area, the third largest in China after Guangzhou and Shanghai, is slightly bigger, including 3 districts in Hebei being conurbated but with Miyun and Pinggu Districts in Beijing not agglomerated yet.

It is located in Northern China, and is governed as a municipality under the direct administration of the State Council with 16 urban, suburban, and rural districts. Beijing is mostly surrounded by Hebei Province with the exception of neighbouring Tianjin to the southeast; together, the three divisions form the Jingjinji megalopolis and the national capital region of China.

The Forbidden City: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is the world’s largest surviving palace complex, dating back to 1406 when construction began. Impossible to see all 980 buildings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in a single day, the Forbidden City should be the first stop on any trip to Beijing. Join a guided tour, follow along with an audio guide, or wander the complex with a guide map.

The Great Wall of China

The three sections of the Great Wall closest to Beijing can be found at Badaling, Jinshanling, and Mutiyanu which are a tour bus or taxi ride away. Each section offers the chance to climb up the Wall for spectacular views of the surrounding land. Badaling is the most crowded with tourists while the less-visited Mutiyanu and Jinshanling offer views of the wild wall not open to the public. Visit Mutiyanu for a thrilling ride down the wall on a steel toboggan track.

Panjaiyuan Market: Shop for Antiques and Crafts in Beijing

Also referred to as the Dirt Market, Panjaiyuan Market is where the locals shop for antiques. Divided into zones for books, artwork, ceramics, and more, it is worth a visit whether or not you are a collector. The book market on weekends has a variety of books and postcards in many languages.

Hutongs: Imperial Beijing’s Back Alleys and Courtyards

These alleyways formed by traditional courtyard houses offer a glimpse into Imperial Beijing life. Best toured on foot or by peddicab, the hutongs offer many local-frequented shops, markets, and restaurants. The best-preserved hutongs can be found north of the Forbidden City to the Hou Hai. The hutongs are bustling with local residents from early morning market shoppers to late-night revellers.

The Hou Hai or Back Lakes of Beijing

Peaceful area by day and lively hotspot at night, the Back Lakes or Hou Hai are an ideal way to cap off a day of sightseeing. For anyone not into the bar scene, there are lots of shops and cafes lining the recreated hutong alleyways behind the lakes.

Snack Street: Chinese Delicacies, Fruits, and Snacks

Off of Wangfujing Street, the Wengsheng Fu Snack Street offers the chance to eat everything from fresh fruit kebabs and noodles to the more exotic starfish-on-a-stick and fried scorpions. Some of the freshest food you will find in the city as it’s cooked to order.

The Temple of Heaven and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

Restored in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the Temple of Heaven is comprised of three large Taoist structures amid Tiantan Park where will be able to observe locals practising everything from ballroom dancing to badminton. An easy half-day visit, the park’s most famous site is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.

Silk Market: Shopping for Silk Products and Souvenirs

Not for the faint of heart, the Silk Market is a no holds barred bartering system with merchants hawking their goods- luggage, clothing, purses, and silks- on 5 floors of this crowded complex. Protect your valuables in the crowds and avoid if you are claustrophobic, but shopaholics will rejoice.

Tiananmen Square & Mao’s Mausoleum

Site of many cultural events and protests, Tiananmen Square lies to the south of the Forbidden City and is home to the Mao Zedong Mausoleum where visitors can queue up to see the embalmed body of the former Communist leader.

Beijing Acrobats at Chaoyang Theatre and Lao She Tea House

Famous the world over, there are several theatres and tea houses to see these skilled performers. Chaoyang Theatre and the Lao She Tea House are the most highly recommended and feature nightly performances. Contact the theatre directly for showtimes and prices or arrange tickets through your hotel reception.

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