Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions In Beijing For International Tourists (2025)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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