5 Popular Tourist Routes In Beijing (2025)

1. Imperial Heritage Route

Route: Tiananmen Square → Forbidden City → Jingshan Park → Beihai Park.
Key Experiences:
- Sunrise flag-raising at Tiananmen (arrive by 4:30 AM).
- Hidden photography spots in Forbidden City (e.g., Corner Towers at golden hour).
- Panoramic city views from Jingshan’s Wanchun Pavilion.
Pro Tip: Enter Forbidden City via Donghuamen Gate to avoid crowds.

2. Great Wall Adventure

Top Sections:
- Mutianyu: Less crowded, cable car available (¥120 round-trip).
- Jiankou: Wild, unrestored trails for hikers (bring supplies).
Transport: High-speed train from Beijing North Station (¥30, 1hr).

3. Hutong & Local Culture

Route: Nanluoguxiang → Shichahai → Drum Tower → Houhai Lake.
Must-Do:
- Breakfast at Huguosi Snack Street (try douzhi fermented drink).
- Rickshaw tour through Yandai Xiejie tobacco-pipe alley.
Nightlife: Bar hopping at Houhai with lakeside views.

4. Modern Beijing & Art

Highlights:
- 798 Art Zone: Free exhibitions and industrial-chic cafes.
- Sanlitun: Boutique shopping and international dining.
New in 2025: Daxing Art District’s immersive digital exhibitions.

5. Day Trips from Beijing

Chengde Summer Resort: UNESCO imperial retreat (2.5hr by train).
Tianjin: Blend of colonial architecture and seafood (30min by高铁).

Comparison Chart: Routes by Interest

Route Type	Best For	Time Needed	Budget (¥/day)
Imperial Heritage	History lovers	1 day	200-400
Great Wall	Outdoor enthusiasts	Half-day/full-day	300-600
Hutong Culture	Foodies/photo seekers	Half-day	150-300
Modern & Art	Young travelers	Half-day	250-500
Day Trips	Repeat visitors	Full-day	400-800

Pro Tips:

Book Forbidden City tickets 7 days ahead via official WeChat mini-program.
Use “Beijing Culture Pass” for discounted metro/attraction combos (¥150/week).

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