City Guides | Beijing
Beijing Travel Guide
For Australians
Beijing (北京, Běijīng) is the Capital of China and centre of political and economic decisions. Beijing is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, with over 140 million Chinese tourists and 4+ million foreign visitors each year. Surrounded by Hebei Province and neighbours Tianjin to the southeast, together, the three divisions form the ‘Jing-Jin-Ji’ cluster of 110 million people. Let's explore the top attractions, activities, food and hotels in Beijing.
Dynamic, Ancient, Power.
Welcome to Beijing
Population
21 million
Location
North East
Known for
The Capital of China
Top Attractions in Beijing
The Great Wall of China 长城,
Visible from space, The Great Wall is one of the world's most iconic structures, and a must-visit when in China. The Mutianyu section is a well-preserved section of the Great Wall of China, built in 1368. It’s about 90 minutes from Beijing and offers scenic views in any season. P.S. The Mutianya section is usually less crowded than Badaling.
Forbidden City 故宫
Built in the early-15th century as the palace of the Ming emperors of China, the Forbidden City is an imperial palace complex, now known as the Palace Museum, housing centuries of Chinese history. It's the world's largest palace complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s easy to find, located right in the center of Beijing.
Temple of Heaven 天坛
A masterpiece of Chinese architecture, the Temple of Heaven is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. The ancient complex was where emperors performed rituals for good harvests. The park surrounding it is popular for tai chi and other activities.
ACTIVITIES in Beijing
Walk through the Hutongs
To experience the real local life and culture of Beijing, head to the hutongs. Hutongs are narrow lanes or traditional alleyways between rows of single-storey Siheyuan homes. Pack good walking shoes and explore on foot the hidden courtyards and local eateries. P.S. You’ll find some great hidden breweries!
Explore Jingshan Park
Located on the highest point in Beijing City, Jingshan park (景山公园, Jǐngshān Gōngyuán) gives you sweeping panoramic views of the Forbidden City located below. Covering 23 hectares, this beautiful imperial park features five pavilions atop Jingshan Hill, surrounded by green cypresses. The park also features historical structures including the Qiwang Pavilion and Shouhuang Hall.
Visit The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace (颐和园, Yíhéyuán) is Beijing's largest imperial garden, a masterpiece in Chinese landscaping with classical architecture and a beautiful lake. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into China's imperial past with its ornate pavilions, bridges, and the famous Marble Boat.
WHAT TO EAT in Beijing
Beijing's cuisine is famous for its imperial influences and hearty flavors.
Don't miss these local specialties:
Peking Duck – the city's most famous dish, featuring crispy-skinned roast duck.
Jianbing – a popular breakfast crepe filled with egg, scallions, and crispy wonton.
Zhajiangmian – hand-pulled noodles with a rich soybean paste sauce. So yum!
Where to Eat:
Popular eateries for an authentic taste of Beijing:
Da Dong – Renowned for its lean and crispy Peking duck.
Huguosi Snack Street – offers a variety of traditional Beijing snacks.
Bei 27 Hao - for a comforting bowl of lao lao jia saozi mian (noodles).
P.S. We recommend the Beijing Hutong Evening Food Tour!
GETTING AROUND beijing
Beijing Subway
The extensive and efficient subway system is the fastest way to navigate the city. Signs and announcements are in English.
Didi and Taxis
Ride-hailing apps like Didi are easy to use and have an English interface. You can hail a Didi from within the Alipay app. Taxis are plentiful in Beijing, but it's helpful to have your destination written in Chinese.
Buses
An extensive bus network covers the city, though it can be challenging for non-Chinese speakers.
POPULAR HOTELS IN Beijing
Beijing Hotel Nuo Forbidden City
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9.0 Rating on Expedia (Wonderful)
Grand Millennium Beijing
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8.8 Rating on Expedia (Excellent)
Hilton Beijing
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8.2 Rating on Expedia (Very Good)
Tangfu Nanluoguxiang Wang Fu Jing Forbidden City Boutique Hotel
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9.6 Rating on Expedia (Exceptional)
Beijing Travel Tips:
The best time to visit Beijing is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and the views are spectacular.
Be prepared for crowds during national holidays, especially the first week of October.
Planning on visiting china soon?
IMPORTANT: The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For the latest travel advice from the DFAT including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information check smarttraveller.gov.au