If you’re planning a trip to Beijing, there are plenty of must-see tourist attractions that you won’t want to miss. As the capital of China, Beijing is home to a rich cultural heritage that includes some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. From the Great Wall of China to the Forbidden City, there’s no shortage of sights to see in this vibrant city.
At the top of our list of must-see tourist attractions in Beijing is the Forbidden City. This sprawling palace complex was once the home of China’s emperors and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and rich history, the Forbidden City is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Chinese culture and history.
Another must-see attraction in Beijing is the Great Wall of China. This iconic landmark stretches for over 13,000 miles and is one of the most impressive feats of engineering in human history. Whether you hike along the wall, take a cable car ride, or simply admire the view, the Great Wall is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Top 5 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a city that is rich in history and culture. With so many attractions to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 5 must-see tourist attractions in Beijing.
1. Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is the largest ancient palatial structure in the world. It was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties and is now a museum that showcases Chinese art and culture. The Meridian Gate, Hall of Supreme Harmony, Hall of Central Harmony, and Hall of Preserving Harmony are some of the must-see attractions in the Forbidden City.
2. Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous attractions in the world. It is a series of walls and fortifications that were built to protect China from invaders. The Mutianyu, Simatai, Jinshanling, and Jiankou sections of the Great Wall are the most popular for hiking and sightseeing.
3. Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a stunning imperial garden that was built during the Qing dynasty. It features Kunming Lake, Seventeen-Arch Bridge, Long Corridor, and many other scenic spots. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the lake or watch a traditional Chinese performance.
4. Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings that were used by emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven for good harvest. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar are some of the must-see attractions in the Temple of Heaven.
5. Lama Temple
The Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe Temple, is a Tibetan Buddhist temple that was built during the Qing dynasty. It features stunning architecture and houses many valuable artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and jade pieces. Visitors can also learn about calligraphy and other cultural experiences in the temple.
These top 5 must-see things in Beijing offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, cultural experiences, or modern attractions, Beijing has something for everyone.
Forbidden City
Beijing is home to numerous historical landmarks, but none of them can match the grandeur and scale of the Forbidden City. Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is the world’s largest imperial palace and a must-visit tourist attraction for anyone visiting the city.
1.1 Imperial Palace
The Forbidden City is also known as the Imperial Palace, and it served as the home of the emperors of China for almost 500 years. The palace complex covers an area of over 180 acres and consists of more than 980 buildings. The Imperial Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important cultural treasures in China.
1.2 Meridian Gate
The Meridian Gate is the main entrance to the Forbidden City and is one of the most iconic landmarks in China. The gate is also known as the “Five-Phoenix Tower” and features five towers that represent the five elements of Chinese philosophy: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. The Meridian Gate is a perfect example of traditional Chinese architecture and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Forbidden City.
Visiting the Forbidden City can be overwhelming, so it’s important to plan your trip in advance. We recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to give yourself plenty of time to explore the palace complex. We also suggest hiring a guide or using an audio guide to help you navigate the complex and to learn more about the history and significance of the Forbidden City.
Overall, the Forbidden City is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Beijing. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance, the Imperial Palace and Meridian Gate are sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.
Great Wall of China
One of the most iconic landmarks in China, the Great Wall of China is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Beijing. Spanning over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall is a testament to the ancient engineering prowess of the Chinese people. There are several sections of the wall that are accessible to tourists, each with its own unique features and attractions.
2.1 Mutianyu
Mutianyu is one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall and is known for its scenic beauty. The wall here is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike along the wall and take in the breathtaking scenery. For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, there is a cable car that takes visitors up to the wall.
2.2 Simatai
Simatai is a section of the Great Wall that is known for its steep inclines and rugged terrain. It is a popular destination for hikers and adventurers who are looking for a challenge. The wall here is also known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for sightseeing.
2.3 Jinshanling
Jinshanling is another section of the Great Wall that is popular with hikers. The wall here is less crowded than other sections, making it a great spot for those who want a more peaceful experience. Visitors can hike along the wall and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
2.4 Jiankou
Jiankou is a section of the Great Wall that is known for its rugged terrain and steep inclines. It is a popular destination for adventurous hikers who are looking for a challenge. The wall here is also known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great spot for sightseeing.
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is one of the most beautiful and serene places in Beijing. It was built in the 18th century as a royal retreat for emperors to escape the heat of the city. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction for tourists visiting Beijing.
3.1 Kunming Lake
Kunming Lake is the centerpiece of the Summer Palace. It is a man-made lake that covers over 2.2 square kilometers and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and pavilions. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the palace.
3.2 Long Corridor
The Long Corridor is a covered walkway that stretches for over 700 meters along the northern shore of Kunming Lake. It is decorated with over 14,000 paintings and is the longest covered walkway in the world. Walking along the corridor is a peaceful and relaxing experience.
3.3 Seventeen-Arch Bridge
The Seventeen-Arch Bridge is a beautiful stone bridge that spans across Kunming Lake. It was built in the 18th century and is one of the most iconic structures in the Summer Palace. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the palace and the lake.
The Summer Palace is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of nature. Its gardens, pavilions, and lakes are a testament to the exquisite taste of the emperors who built it. We highly recommend visiting this amazing attraction when in Beijing.
Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven is a cultural landmark that is a must-see for anyone visiting Beijing. Located in the southeastern part of the city, this temple was built in the 15th century and was used by emperors for annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests. The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.
One of the most impressive buildings in the temple complex is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, which is a triple-gabled circular pavilion that is 38 meters high. This magnificent building was used by emperors to pray for good harvests and is a prime example of ancient Chinese architecture.
The temple complex is also home to the Echo Wall, which is a circular wall that surrounds the Imperial Vault of Heaven. The wall is known for its unique acoustic properties, which allow a whisper to be heard clearly on the opposite side of the wall.
The temple grounds are also a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The park is well-maintained and features many trees, gardens, and pavilions. Visitors can also watch locals practicing tai chi or playing traditional Chinese instruments.
Visitors should plan to spend at least two hours exploring the temple complex and the surrounding park. The temple is open from 6 am to 10 pm, and admission costs 35 yuan (about $5 USD) per person.
Lama Temple
One of the most impressive religious sites in Beijing is the Lama Temple, also known as the Yonghe Temple. This Buddhist temple is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. The temple has a rich history dating back to the Qing Dynasty and features a combination of Han and Tibetan architectural styles.
As we enter the temple, we are greeted by a large courtyard filled with incense burners and prayer wheels. The main attraction of the temple is the Falun Hall, the largest hall in the temple. Here, we can find a 6.1-meter-high bronze statue of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of Gelug Tibetan Buddhism. The hall also features intricate carvings, calligraphy, and paintings.
One of the unique features of the Lama Temple is the collection of jade pieces on display. The temple has a vast collection of jade artifacts, including Buddha statues and other religious items. The jade pieces are intricately carved and are a testament to the skill of ancient craftsmen.
For those interested in calligraphy, the temple also features a calligraphy gallery. The gallery displays a collection of calligraphy works from famous Chinese calligraphers. Visitors can admire the beautiful brushwork and learn about the history and techniques of Chinese calligraphy.
The Lama Temple is a peaceful and serene place to visit, and we highly recommend it to anyone visiting Beijing. It offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Buddhism in China.
Recommended Hotels
When visiting Beijing, it’s important to choose the right hotel to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of our top picks for hotels in Beijing:
| Hotel Name | Location | Rating | Price Range | Booking.com Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Opposite House | Sanlitun | 5 stars | $$$$ | More Information |
| Novotel Beijing Peace | Dongcheng | 4 stars | $$ | More Information |
| Hotel Eclat | Chaoyang | 5 stars | $$$$ | More Information |
| Double Happiness Beijing Courtyard Hotel | Xicheng | 3 stars | $$ | More Information |
| Sofitel Beijing Central | Xicheng | 5 stars | $$$ | More Information |
The Opposite House is our top pick for luxury hotels in Beijing. It’s located in the trendy Sanlitun neighborhood and features a beautiful contemporary design. Hotel Eclat is another great luxury option, with unique and stylish rooms.
For families, we recommend the Novotel Beijing Peace. It’s located in the Dongcheng district, close to many of Beijing’s top attractions, and has family-friendly amenities like a pool and play area.
If you’re on a budget, the Double Happiness Beijing Courtyard Hotel is a great option. It’s a traditional Chinese courtyard hotel located in the Xicheng district, with affordable prices and a charming atmosphere.
Finally, for those looking for a hotel with great nightlife options, we recommend the Sofitel Beijing Central. It’s located in the Xicheng district, close to many bars and clubs, and features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
If you are going to spend more time in China check out our 10 day itinerary here.
