1. The Forbidden City (故宫)

  • Why visit: Explore 600 years of imperial history in the world’s largest palace complex, now featuring nighttime treasure exhibitions (book in advance).
  • Highlight: Don’t miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the rooftop views from Corner Tower Café.
Forbidden City
Vast imperial palace complex showcasing Ming-Qing architectural grandeur and centuries of cultural treasures.

2. The Great Wall at Mutianyu (慕田峪长城)

  • Best for: Scenic hikes with fewer crowds. The “Night Wall” light show (Fridays/Saturdays) uses holograms to recreate ancient beacon fires.
  • Pro tip: Take the cable car for panoramic views of Jiankou’s wild sections.

3. Summer Palace (颐和园)

  • Must-do: Cruise Kunming Lake on a dragon boat or try the “Empress Dowager’s afternoon tea” on a replica imperial vessel.
  • Hidden gem: The West Causeway blooms with cherry blossoms in spring.
Kunming Lake
Located in Beijing’s Summer Palace, this stunning lake offers serene boat rides, iconic bridges, and lush scenery, blending nature and history for a peaceful, picturesque escape.

4. Temple of Heaven (天坛)

  • Cultural insight: Witness locals practicing tai chi and traditional music at this Ming-era sacrificial altar.
  • Architecture: The Echo Wall demonstrates ancient acoustic engineering.
Temple Of Heaven
Emperor's sacred altar for sky worship, rain, and harvest prayers. Marvel at ancient architecture, echo walls, and spring's lush wildflowers. Explore inner and outer sections from south to north.

5. Hutongs & Courtyard Houses (胡同四合院)

  • Experience: Ride a rickshaw through Nanluoguxiang, then join a calligraphy workshop in a 200-year-old siheyuan.
  • Food stop: Try Beijing yogurt from street vendors.

6. 798 Art Zone (798艺术区)

  • Contemporary vibe: Galleries and graffiti murals in a repurposed industrial complex.
  • Event: Check for 2025 digital art exhibitions featuring AI-interactive installations.
798 Art Zone
A creative hub in Beijing, it’s a former factory turned art district with cool industrial vibes, galleries, trendy cafes, and unique shops—perfect for art lovers and explorers! 🎨🏭☕

7. Lama Temple (雍和宫)

  • Unique feature: A 26m-tall sandaloak Buddha statue in Tibetan Buddhism’s holiest Beijing site.
  • Etiquette: Spin prayer wheels clockwise for blessings.

8. Beijing Universal Resort (北京环球度假区)

  • New in 2025: “Mythology Island” with Journey to the West-themed rides and deity meet-and-greets.
  • Thrill-seekers: Ride Decepticoaster, Asia’s longest roller coaster.

9. National Museum of China (中国国家博物馆)

  • Not to miss: The “Ancient China” exhibit with AR glasses to visualize Bronze Age rituals.
  • Free entry: Bring your passport for ticket collection.
National Museum Of China
Location and Transportation The National Museum of China is located in the heart of Beijing, right on Tiananmen Square. It‘s one of the most central spots in the city, making it easy to reach

10. Jingshan Park (景山公园)

  • Viewpoint: Climb to Wanchun Pavilion for a bird’s-eye view of the Forbidden City.
  • Best time: Sunset for golden-hour photography.
Jingshan Park
Jingshan Park is located right in the heart of Beijing, just north of the famous Forbidden City. If you’re visiting the Forbidden City, you can easily walk to Jingshan

Quick Comparison

Attraction Type Ticket (¥) Time Needed
Forbidden City Historical 60 Half-day
Mutianyu Great Wall Outdoor 45+120 (cable) Full-day
798 Art Zone Cultural Free 2–3 hours
Universal Resort Theme Park 528+ Full-day
Forbidden City
Vast imperial palace complex showcasing Ming-Qing architectural grandeur and centuries of cultural treasures.