Beijing, a city with a long history and rich culture, attracts countless tourists to visit. To fully explore Beijing, it is not only necessary to plan a reasonable itinerary, but also to understand the unique features of each attraction. Here are some classic routes recommended for you to experience the essence of Beijing tourism. 

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1. Palace Museum - Tiananmen Square - Shichahai: A Royal Journey Through Ancient and Modern Times

The Forbidden City, as a royal palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, is one of the largest and most well preserved wooden ancient architectural complexes in the world. The museum opens at 8:30 am. It is recommended to visit at this time as there are fewer people and better lighting, making it easier to take photos. Visiting the Forbidden City, one can appreciate the grandeur and magnificence of the three major halls of the former dynasty, namely the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony, and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, while also experiencing the unique charm of ancient palace culture. Entering the Forbidden City from Tiananmen Square, you can also visit the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (pay attention to appearance and keep quiet).

In the afternoon, you can go to Shichahai, which is a representative of the old Beijing style. Strolling through the hutongs, one can feel the unique atmosphere of the interweaving of tradition and modernity. There are many special shops and delicacies around Shichahai, such as Zhajiangmian, fermented sour milk made from ground mung bean wow gold coke rings, etc.

2. Badaling Great Wall - Thirteen Tombs: Experience the weight of history

The Badaling Great Wall is an important component of the Great Wall and one of the most frequently visited sections by tourists. It is recommended to take the tourist shuttle bus to go there, which is worry free and effortless. Standing on the Great Wall, gazing at the rolling mountains in the distance and the towering city walls up close, one can instantly experience the heroic spirit of 'not a hero without the Great Wall'.

After visiting the Great Wall, you can go to the Thirteen Tombs, which are the tombs of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Among them, Dingling Mausoleum is one of the tombs open to visitors, through which visitors can learn about the imperial tomb system and funeral culture of the Ming Dynasty.

3. Summer Palace - Yuanmingyuan - Peking University: Royal Gardens and Academic Journey

The Summer Palace is the largest existing royal garden in China, located in the western suburbs of Beijing. It is built on the basis of Kunming Lake and Wanshou Mountain, drawing on the design techniques of Jiangnan gardens. It is a large natural landscape garden. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of gardens like a water town in Jiangnan, and feel the grandeur of royal gardens.

In the afternoon, you can go to Yuanmingyuan, which used to be the garden of the Qing Dynasty royal family and has now become a ruins park. Strolling among the ruins of Yuanmingyuan, one can feel the vicissitudes and changes of history.

Finally, why not go to Peking University, which is one of the most famous higher education institutions in China. Strolling along the tree lined streets of the campus, one can feel the strong academic atmosphere and youthful spirit.

4. Nanluoguxiang Gongwang Mansion Houhai: Cultural Tour of Hutongs in Old Beijing

Nanluoguxiang is one of the busiest hutongs in Beijing, with many specialty shops and delicious food, making it a favorite among artistic youth. Strolling through Nanluogu Lane, one can feel the fireworks atmosphere and unique hutong culture of old Beijing.

The Prince Gong's Mansion is the former residence of He Yue in the Qing Dynasty and one of the largest surviving royal mansions in Beijing. The luxurious architectural style and exquisite garden design here make it a great place to learn about the architectural style and historical culture of Qing dynasty royal residences.

At night, you can go to Houhai, which is one of the representatives of Beijing's nightlife. You can sit on the elegant seat by the water, taste delicious dishes, and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery as well as the dazzling night view.

Beijing travel advice and tips

1. Transportation: Beijing's public transportation is very developed, with options such as subway, bus, taxi, etc. for you to choose from. It is recommended to purchase a Beijing transportation card, which offers discounts on both subway and bus rides.

2. Accommodation: It is recommended to choose accommodation in the city center or areas close to major attractions, which can save transportation time and costs.

3. Food: There are many kinds of snacks in Beijing, such as Zhajiangmian with soy sauce, fermented sour milk made from ground mung bean wow gold coke rings, braised and roasted.

4. Shopping: Wangfujing Pedestrian Street, Nanluoguxiang and other places are good places for shopping, where you can buy souvenirs with Beijing characteristics.

Through the above classic routes, we believe you can deeply appreciate the essence and charm of Beijing tourism. Whether it's historical relics, natural scenery, or cultural landscapes, Beijing offers you a wide range of choices. Come and plan your trip to Beijing!