Beijing

Explore the Charm of Beijing

Beijing, China's capital for over 800 years, stands as a magnificent testament to imperial grandeur and contemporary dynamism. This sprawling metropolis of 21 million people serves as the political, cultural, and educational heart of the nation, where ancient palaces and temples coexist with futuristic skyscrapers and avant-garde architecture. As the seat of the Ming and Qing dynasties, Beijing preserves the world's largest collection of imperial architecture, including the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace. The city's distinctive layout follows strict cosmological principles, with the Forbidden City at its center and concentric ring roads expanding outward. Beyond its historical treasures, Beijing has transformed into a global city hosting international events like the 2008 Olympics and 2022 Winter Olympics, showcasing China's rapid modernization while honoring its profound cultural heritage.

Our Beijing Travel Guides

Things to Do

  • Explore the Forbidden Citys 980 buildings and 8
  • 886 rooms that housed Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years
  • Walk along the Great Wall at Mutianyu or Badaling sections experiencing this ancient defensive marvel
  • Visit the Temple of Heaven where emperors performed annual ceremonies for good harvests
  • Stroll through the Summer Palace to admire imperial gardens and Kunming Lake
  • Experience traditional hutong neighborhoods by rickshaw discovering courtyard homes and local life
  • Sample Beijing Roast Duck at historic Quanjude or Da Dong restaurants
  • Browse Panjiayuan Antique Market for traditional crafts and cultural artifacts
  • Attend a Peking Opera performance at Liyuan Theater with its distinctive makeup and singing
  • Climb Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the Forbidden Citys golden roofs
  • Explore the 798 Art District in converted factory buildings showcasing contemporary Chinese art

Popular Attractions

Opera Museum

Opera Museum

The Beijing Opera Museum, also known as the Peking Opera Museum, is a specialized cultural institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of Chinese opera, particularly Peking Opera which is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Housed within the historic Huguang Guild Hall, a beautifully preserved Qing Dynasty architectural complex dating back to 1807, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive journey through the evolution of Chinese opera arts. The museum complex itself is an architectural masterpiece featuring traditional courtyard layouts, intricate wood carvings, and classic Chinese garden elements that provide an authentic historical atmosphere for experiencing this traditional art form. The exhibitions cover various aspects of opera including costumes, makeup, musical instruments, scripts, and stage props, with detailed explanations of the symbolic meanings behind different colors, patterns, and designs used in traditional Chinese opera performances. Visitors can explore the original theater stage where famous opera masters once performed, and learn about the four main role types in Peking Opera: Sheng (male roles), Dan (female roles), Jing (painted face roles), and Chou (clown roles). The museum also hosts regular live performances, workshops, and demonstrations where visitors can witness the intricate process of applying traditional opera makeup and see authentic costumes up close. This immersive experience provides deep insights into one of China's most cherished cultural traditions and its enduring influence on Chinese performing arts.