Beijing, a metropolis where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge innovation, offers experiences found nowhere else on earth.
From wandering historical alleyways to savoring the world's best roast duck, this city invites you to discover its unique blend of old and new.
Hutong Hikes
Alleyway Adventures
Explore the enchanting hutong alleyways of Beijing, a shrinking but still vibrant network of residential lanes. Stroll through Xisi, listen to the local Beijinghua dialect, and admire the White Dagoba Temple. Walking through these historic streets at night offers a unique glimpse into the city's past. Access to the hutongs is free, and they are accessible by public transit.
Breakfast Bliss
Jianbing Journey
Start your day with a delicious jianbing, a crepe-like pancake filled with eggs, fermented bean curd, chili sauce, cilantro, and scallions. Found throughout Beijing, this street food delight costs around $1. While originating in Tianjin, Beijing's version is a local favorite.
Wall Wonders
Wild Great Wall
Experience the Great Wall in its natural, unrestored state. Hiking sections of the wild Great Wall offers stunning views and a sense of adventure. Beijing Hikers offers guided day hikes, handling logistics and providing expert knowledge. Day hikes are typically $80-$100 per person, including transportation.
Forbidden Secrets
Palace Exploration
Delve deeper into the Forbidden City, beyond the main halls. Explore the Palace of Prolonging Happiness, an unfinished Western-style building, and the Belvedere of Pleasant Sounds, a three-story opera house. Entrance to the Forbidden City is approximately $8-$10, varying seasonally.
Historical Runs
Jogging Through History
Combine fitness with history on a themed run through Beijing. Beijing Postcards offers 10km runs through hutongs, canals, and parks, with stops for historical insights. Runs conclude with drinks and snacks at their hutong headquarters. Runs are typically $30-$40 per person.
Summer Grandeur
Yiheyuan's Splendor
Explore the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), a former royal playground. Admire Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, featuring halls, towers, and pavilions. Entrance to the Summer Palace is around $5-$8, depending on the season.
Duck Delights
Peking Perfection
Savor the world's best Peking duck at Sìjì Mínfú. The meticulous preparation and roasting process result in a culinary masterpiece. A full Peking duck meal is approximately $40-$60, serving 2-3 people.
Tower Time
Drum and Bell Towers
Climb the Drum and Bell Towers, former timekeepers of Beijing. Enjoy panoramic views and an hourly drumming performance. Entrance to both towers is about $5-$8.
Market Treasures
Panjiayuan Finds
Explore the vast Panjiayuan Market, offering antiques, handicrafts, and replica artifacts. While most antiques are replicas, the market provides a unique shopping experience. Weekends are the busiest, with early morning being the best time to find unique items. Access to the market is free.
Your Beijing Awaits
Beijing is more than a destination—it's an experience layered with flavors, stories, and sights that stay with you long after you leave. Whether you're savoring a jianbing at sunrise, tracing the stone steps of the Wild Wall, or getting lost in the whispers of a hutong at dusk, the city invites you to write your own chapter in its ever-evolving story.
Beijing is waiting—ancient and modern, bold and serene. All it needs now is you.
9 BEST THINGS TO DO IN BEIJING
Video by Creative Travel Guide
