Beijing may not be the largest or most densely populated city in China, but it is undeniably one of the most enticing for tourists. The city center is divided into four districts, each offering something unique to see and explore. In the northwest Xicheng district, you'll find attractions like the zoo, the National Concert Hall, and Beihai Park. To witness the iconic residence of the emperors, known as the "Forbidden City," a visit to Dongcheng in the northeast is a must. The Chongwen district in the southeast is home to the majestic Temple of Heaven.
Beijing serves as the headquarters of the Chinese Communist Party, so it's not uncommon to see modern, faceless concrete buildings juxtaposed with ancient pagodas in the cityscape.
Make sure to allocate time for a stroll through the historic "hutongs," ancient neighborhoods of Beijing. Other notable attractions include the expansive Tiananmen Square, the serene Temple of Heaven ("Tiantan"), and the grand "front gate" Jiangmen. Additionally, the world-famous Great Wall of China, stretching a staggering 8,851.9 km when including all branches, is not far from Beijing.
For food enthusiasts, be sure to savor the renowned Peking duck, various types of noodles, fried eggplant with hot peppers, and dishes featuring tofu cheese, such as yellow tofu fried in oil.
