What to see in Beijing
Beijing Attractions
Previously in Beijing, the city's most interesting attractions related to the spectacular history of China's capital city. These wonderful examples of ancient innovations and well-preserved glimpses into millennia of Chinese history are still there, but the city is no longer only viewed as a virtual museum. Now eye-catching structures and modern architectural wonders are among the city's most visited attractions. These include the National Stadium, better known as the Bird's Nest, and the National Grand Theatre, known as the Eggshell. It is no surprise that many believe the modern attractions detract from the city's ancient treasures, but many more enjoy the stark contrast.
Yet, of course, the iconic historic Beijing sites remain the most popular. The Great Wall of China is the city's most famous attraction, only rivaled by the well-preserved Forbidden City at the heart of Beijing. Beihai Park and the Summer Palace are also very popular places to explore. For truly ancient history, visit the Zhoukoudian Cave, which boasts the largest collection of Homo erectus fossils in the world. More recent history can be seen at the infamous Tiananmen Square or the Chairman Mao Mausoleum. Being able to walk through some of the world's most ancient and most modern attractions in one day makes Beijing eternally captivating.
798 Space
Beijing's prominent art district is home to 798 Space, an art gallery housed in a former electronics factory that built…
Beihai Park
A place of tranquility and grand imperial beauty, the Beihai Park is one of the great attractions of Beijing. The park…
Beijing Aquarium
Located within the Beijing Zoo, the Beijing Aquarium is the world's largest inland aquarium. It's an absolute must see…
Chairman Mao Mausoleum
Although Chairman Mao Zedong requested to be cremated, it was decided hours after his death in 1976, that he would be…
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is possibly the foremost attraction of Beijing. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been declared…
Great Bell Temple
The Qing Temple is home to the Ancient Bell Museum (Gu Zhong Bowuguan) and is a must see for travellers en route to the…
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a perennial favorite among tourists and with very good reason.…
Summer Palace
The magnificent Summer Palace at Kunming Lake, in northwest Beijing, was built in 1750 by the Emperor Qianlong, and continued…
The Beijing National Stadium
The Beijing National Stadium, also known as The Bird's Nest due to its appearance, was the hub of the 2008 Summer Olympic…
Tiananmen Square
The famous square at the heart of Beijing, recently renovated, is still not much to look at, but it attracts curious…
Zhoukoudian Cave
About 25 miles (40km) south of Beijing, in the Fangshan District, is the Zhoukoudian Cave, source of the largest collection…
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