Beijing Between Imperial History and Modern Life

Beijing is a city of striking contrasts: centuries-old palace complexes, temples, and hutongs meet wide boulevards, modern architecture, and the fast pace of big-city life. Visiting the Chinese capital also means moving through the country’s history, from the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven to the Summer Palace. At the same time, it is worth looking beyond the major sights: in small street food stalls, quiet parks, and the narrow lanes of old residential neighborhoods, Beijing reveals a much more intimate side.

Late March to late May is one of the best times to travel to Beijing: the intense summer heat is still far off, the winter cold is fading, and the city is easy to explore on foot in mostly mild spring weather. This is a particularly good time to spend long days between the Imperial Palace, the hutongs, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall, as many of the city’s sights are outdoors and look especially impressive in the clear spring light. It is worth keeping an eye on the calendar, though: on May 1, one of China’s three Golden Weeks begins with Labor Day. Many people then travel within China, which means popular sights, trains, and hotels can become noticeably busier.

To get to know Beijing at a relaxed pace, you should plan to stay at least 4 to 5 days. That gives you enough time for the main attractions such as the Forbidden City, Tian’anmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace, as well as strolls through the hutongs, an evening in a traditional restaurant, or a trip to the Great Wall. Those who want to dive deeper should stay 6 to 7 days and will then have time for museums, markets, modern districts such as Sanlitun, or another day trip in the surrounding area.

For those looking to explore beyond the city, these three destinations are worth considering:

• Mutianyu – the Great Wall with sweeping views
  Around one and a half to two hours north of the city center lies Mutianyu, one of the most popular sections of the Great Wall near Beijing. The site is well restored, boasts impressive scenery, and is ideal for a day trip.
• Ming Tombs – imperial calm at the foot of the mountains
  North of Beijing lie the Ming Tombs, the burial site of several emperors of the Ming dynasty. The Sacred Way, lined with stone animals and guardian figures, is especially striking.
• Gubei Water Town and Simatai – Great Wall views by night
  Around two hours northeast of Beijing, Gubei Water Town lies at the foot of the Simatai section of the Great Wall. The town is touristy, but atmospheric, especially when the lights come on and a visit to the Wall can be combined with an evening stroll.

Would you like to discover Beijing? Find your flight now and experience the cultural heart of China!