1. Best Time to Visit
- Recommended: April-May (spring) & September-October (autumn) for mild weather.
- Avoid: July-August (peak heat + crowds).
2. Must-See Attractions
- Top 3:
- Great Wall (Mutianyu/Jiankou sections for fewer tourists).
- Forbidden City (Book tickets 7 days in advance).
- Temple of Heaven (Visit early to see locals practicing tai chi).
3. Transportation Tips
- From airports:
- PEK: Take Airport Express (¥25, 30min to downtown).
- PKX: High-speed rail to Beijing South Station (¥35).
- In-city: Use subway (¥3-7/ride) or shared bikes (¥1.5/30min).
4. Budget-Friendly Eats
- Street food: Try jianbing (¥8-15) or zhajiangmian (¥15-30).
- Local markets: Niujie Muslim Market for halal snacks under ¥20.
5. Language Barriers
- Key phrases:
- “Nǐ hǎo” (Hello), “Xièxiè” (Thank you).
- Most tourist areas have English signs.
6. Safety & Etiquette
- Scams to avoid: Overpriced rickshaw rides near hutongs.
- Cultural note: Don’t touch artifacts in temples.
Quick Comparison: Attraction Crowds
Attraction | Least Crowded Time | Peak Hours |
---|---|---|
Forbidden City | 8:00 AM opening | 10:00 AM-2:00 PM |
Great Wall (Mutianyu) | Weekdays | Weekends |
Summer Palace | Early morning | Afternoons |
Pro Tip: Download “Beijing Metro” app for real-time transport updates.