Few cities on earth are changing as fast as Beijing, capital city of the People’s Republic of China. New hotels, shopping malls, commercial plazas, sports stadiums and training facilities are appearing at a rapid rate.
Beijing’s high-speed physical makeover moves hand-in-hand with a firmly retained grip on China’s rich cultural heritage and strict communist social order. Beijing’s soaring modern architecture and vast international hotels are side by side with grandiose socialist municipal buildings and are connected by an often confusing system of broad boulevards and ring roads around the city.
Travel to Beijing offers an extensive choice of tourism attractions, including the fast-disappearing hutong, parks, architectural and cultural treasures and exquisite temples. Beijing serves as a base to visit the Great Wall of China.
A focal point of Beijing attractions is Tiananmen Square, where Mao Zedong declared the foundation of the People’s Republic. The world’s largest public square is an impressive tourism centrepiece. To stand and see the imposing majesty of the Forbidden City to the north and the vast portrait of Mao Zedong on the Tiananmen Gate is to appreciate the undeniable centrality of the capital to all aspects of the Chinese psyche.
When to travel to Beijing
Beijing travel is at its best in late spring and early autumn. The searing heat of summer and the biting winds in winter can be extreme. Summer is the peak season for visitors, so the city’s main attractions are certain to be milling with tourists.
Advisor tips for Beijing
Hotels
St Regis Beijing
The St Regis Beijing is located in the Embassy area about 10 mins drive from Tiananmen Square. It is a beautiful 5 star hotel with grand opulence. The hotel offers 24 hour Butler service to all rooms – after a hard days sightseeing and shopping – tea and scones are only a phone call away! You feel very spoilt and service is impeccable – nothing is ever a problem. – Trina
Shangri-la World Trade Centre – Beijing
Great location for shops and restaurants. The rooms are large overlooking the commercial part of the city. Being a Shangri-la it has the beautiful and elegant foyer with grand piano playing – which makes for a welcoming atmosphere. – John
Must do Experiences Beijing
Great Wall – Juyongguan Pass
This is one of the highlight of my visit to Beijing– I was overwhelmed just think of the people building it and the size of the project. The walk is very steep and luckily I trained before going so that I could enjoy the experience. It is a must for all to experience such a magic place. - Trina
Riding a pushbike in Beijing
We had the opportunity to hire bikes from our hotel. It was great fun seeing the city at that pace – getting lost and playing charades to try and get directions. We laughed a lot. - Trina
