Beijing Family Vacation

Our Local Expert Says:

Beginning with the massive water fountain and flag display out front, the Hyatt is the most impressive hotel in Beijing with service to match. The Red Moon bar is popular not just with hotel guests, as is Made in China, the in house restaurant. Don't forget to pack your suit. The indoor pool looks like a lush tropical lagoon.

Description:

Another one from the Hyatt stable, this hotel will offer you luxury beyond imagination. Steeped in Oriental traditions, yet very modern in design and amenities, the Grand Hyatt ensures a comfortable stay. Apart from the regular luxury features present in all the 825 rooms and suites, this hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center and a business center. It even provides limousine services, sight seeing tours, secretarial services and more.

Our Local Expert Says:

Massive crowds attend the daily raising and lowering, at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., respectively, of China's national flag at the north end of Tiananmen Square. Jostle with locals for some elbow room and catch a glimpse.

Description:

The Chang An Avenue, stretching 38 kilometers and running east-westward through the Beijing city proper, is known as the first street and façade of the capital. It is definitely a must-see for first-time visitors. Both sides are lined with famous high-rise buildings. The avenue offers a rare opportunity to reflect on the city's past, present and future. The Tiananmen Square, located in the middle reach of the street, is filled with historic relics and legends, and the flag raising and lowering ceremonies there often attracts a large crowd of observers.

Our Local Expert Says:

Tiananmen Square is quietest early in the morning before the crowds gather, although it is easily accessible throughout the day. Getting there by subway is the most convenient option, as the wide roads and official buildings in the area make it hard for taxis to stop. Tiananmen Square is the best place to experience the look and feel of Communist China.

Description:

The centre of both glory and controversy in China's modern history, Tiananmen Square is a vast space located next to Forbidden City. Although the square was originally constructed in 1651, it was not until 1958 that it was significantly enlarged and concrete laid down that it became the square seen today. The site of a number of political battles over the last fifty years, Tiananmen Square is also home to the tomb of Chairman Mao. A sprawling and spacious area, Tiananmen Square perfectly highlights the divide between Imperial and Communist China.

Description:

Standing on the rostrum of the Gate of Heavenly Peace, visitors have a panoramic view over Tiananmen Square. Built in 1417, the 33.7 meter high gate consists of a terrace and a tower. The site was used for grand ceremonies in the Ming and Qing dynasties. It has been renovated four times in the past 50 years and was opened to the public on July 1, 1988. Tiananmen, the front gate of the Forbidden City, is considered the center of Beijing.

Our Local Expert Says:

The main draw of Forbidden City is the impressive Imperial architecture and the sheer scale of the palace. Visiting on a clear day in winter offers the best chance for photographs of this historic site with a clear blue sky in the background. Take a day to visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square together, as they are right next to each other.

Description:

Located in the heart of Beijing near Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City is the most vivid reminder of China's Imperial past. Constructed from 1406 to 1420 and serving as the Imperial palace from the Ming to Qing Dynasties, Forbidden City is the largest palace in the world. There are nearly 1,000 surviving buildings in total, and many of these have been carefully restored to their former glory. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forbidden City contains artefacts from China's Imperial past and is a must-see attraction when visiting Beijing.

Our Local Expert Says:

Chinese shopping malls are somewhat different to those in the West, and there are often really great places to eat inside the many malls at Wangfujing. Take some time to look around these seemingly generic and modern spaces and you can find some tasty treats from all over the world.

Description:

As one of the oldest and most famous commercial streets in China, it is no wonder that Wangfujing is now the modern shopping centre of Beijing. A wide collection of pedestrian streets and modern shopping malls mixed with the traditional snack stalls and architecture of old China, Wangfujing shows how the ancient and modern can blend to great effect. Alongside today's fashion brands such as French Connection and Nike lay traditional Chinese shops such as Shengxifu Hat Store, Tongshenghe Shoe Store and the Wuyutai Tea House. A great place to enjoy modern China whilst still taking in the history of Beijing.

Description:

This night market has to be seen to be believed. Eager crowds jostle alongside red and white stalls, responding to the calls of vendors or the sight of something delicious or extraordinary to behold. Food comes on skewers, in soup bowls, wrapped in tortillas, or even in half a pineapple, and includes familiar fried and roasted meat, fish, seafood, vegetables and fruit, alongside hearts, brains, stomach and other innards. Try baby sparrows, scorpions, crickets and silkworm grubs. Glutinous and sticky, savory and sweet rice dishes are filling and cheap. Vegetarians can eat corn, broccoli, mushrooms and noodles.

Description:

If you want a clear aerial view of the Forbidden City, you'll find it here. The park's central hill was created using earth left over from the digging of the imperial moat and was the highest point in the city during the Ming dynasty. It was designed to enhance the fengshui of the Forbidden City, by blocking the harsh northern wind and by burying a Mongol Yuan dynasty pavilion, the Yanchun Ge. In something of a riposte to the Chinese Ming dynasty, the Manchu Qianlong emperor built a tower by the same name (albeit in a very different style) in the Jianfu Gong Huayuan, within the Forbidden City. A tree on the east side of the hill marks the spot where the last Ming emperor, Chongzhen, supposedly hanged himself in 1644, just before Manchu and rebel armies overran the city. The original tree, derided as the "guilty sophora" during the Qing, was hacked down by Red Guards who failed to recognize a fellow anti-imperialist.

Description:

This is Beijing's most famous Peking Duck restaurant, and also one of the oldest, having been established in 1864. The huge, plush dining hall is filled with diners eager to try this dish in its most authentic setting. A basic duck starts at CNY108, but the pancakes, scallions and sauces are extra. For CNY168 you can choose your bird before it is roasted, and get all the trimmings "for free". The menu also has dishes made from every other part of the duck, save the quack. Beers, spirits and soft drinks are served, and there is a separate fast-food section.

Description:

One of a growing number of restaurants in the capital to offer authentic, good value Sichuan food in a upscale environment, South Beauty has proven extremely popular with locals and visitors alike. With a glass front, immaculate mirrored bar and comfortable booth seating, the atmosphere here is ideal for dates or business meals, and the food never disappoints. All the spicy Sichuan favorites are present.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Summer Palace is extremely large and to see all of its beauty will take at least one day. It is stunning at all times of the year as the seasons change the natural landscape. Highlights of the palace include the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, the Cloud Dispelling Hall and the Temple of Buddhist Virtue.

Description:

Dominated by the 60-metre high Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, this palace is located in the North of Beijing and was originally constructed in 1750. The palace has been ransacked and destroyed on a number of occasions throughout history, with its current incarnation being finished in 1902 after the Boxer Rebellion. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, the Summer Palace is a perfect example of Chinese palatial garden design. With its lakes, maze-like collection of buildings and beautiful pagodas, this landmark is the most beautiful and peaceful attraction to visit in Beijing.

Our Local Expert Says:

Worth it to see the pandas. On weekends, a whole sale clothing market sets up shop outside the front gate.

Description:

This is the biggest zoo in China, with more than 3,500 species from almost every corner of the world. Besides featuring China's famous 'mascot', the adorable panda, the zoo has an assortment of elephants, monkeys, tigers, bears, zebras, and many exotic birds. This fantastic collection attracts hundreds of thousands of kids and adults every year. Visitors can also pick up some zoological knowledge by visiting the various theme areas, such as those housing pandas and amphibians.

Our Local Expert Says:

Nice to combine with a trip to the zoo.

Description:

This world-class aquarium of oceanic proportions features dolphin shows, a man-made rainforest, touch pools and junior-sized sharks. Fish tanks - lots of them - are everywhere. The aquarium used to have a bad reputation for not supervising children, who would bang on the glass and scare the fish, literally, to death. However, it is now a very well organized and enjoyable facility to visit. It is particularly convenient for visitors staying in western Beijing, especially those around the university area.

Our Local Expert Says:

Most reliable place for duck in Beijing in the most pleasant setting. Comprehensive menu with illustrations runs over 100 pages.

Description:

Da Dong's duck is as meltingly succulent as any; it claims to be lower in calories, but it sure doesn't taste like it. We know it's tough, but don't stuff yourself on the main event and overlook other dishes-the fried oysters in Sichuan pepper-salt are a must. Perfect for fans of traditional style duck dining.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beginning with the massive water fountain and flag display out front, the Hyatt is the most impressive hotel in Beijing with service to match. The Red Moon bar is popular not just with hotel guests, as is Made in China, the in house restaurant. Don't forget to pack your suit. The indoor pool looks like a lush tropical lagoon.

Description:

Another one from the Hyatt stable, this hotel will offer you luxury beyond imagination. Steeped in Oriental traditions, yet very modern in design and amenities, the Grand Hyatt ensures a comfortable stay. Apart from the regular luxury features present in all the 825 rooms and suites, this hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center and a business center. It even provides limousine services, sight seeing tours, secretarial services and more.

Our Local Expert Says:

Mutianyu is the quietest section of the Great Wall, but it still pays to get there early in the morning. There you can fully experience the peacefulness of the area and the stunning scenery. The hike can be strenuous but it is worth it, although there is a cable car for those who want to avoid the steep climb.

Description:

Mutianyu Great Wall section is about 70km from Beijing and is the most challenging section of the wall accessible to tourists. Mutianyu is closer to Beijing than Simatai, but is further from the road and can be a fairly demanding hike. This part of the wall has not been restored and so there are steep and uneven stairs to negotiate. This is one of the oldest parts of the Wall, and was built in the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) on top of the original wall that was constructed in the Northern Qi Dynasty (550-557). Mutianyu is the quietest part of the wall, and with over 60% of the area covered in forest it offers the most stunning scenery of any section of the Great Wall near Beijing.

Our Local Expert Says:

Order the xiaolongbao and the chicken soup.

Description:

Selected by the New York Times as one of the world's best restaurants 20 years ago, this Taiwanese dumpling chain has been riding the publicity ever since. Now with branches all over the world, this restaurant developed a faithful following with its dumplings, lovely service and sleek modern design. A playroom for the kids makes it a family favorite. Perfect for world famous dumplings.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beginning with the massive water fountain and flag display out front, the Hyatt is the most impressive hotel in Beijing with service to match. The Red Moon bar is popular not just with hotel guests, as is Made in China, the in house restaurant. Don't forget to pack your suit. The indoor pool looks like a lush tropical lagoon.

Description:

Another one from the Hyatt stable, this hotel will offer you luxury beyond imagination. Steeped in Oriental traditions, yet very modern in design and amenities, the Grand Hyatt ensures a comfortable stay. Apart from the regular luxury features present in all the 825 rooms and suites, this hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center and a business center. It even provides limousine services, sight seeing tours, secretarial services and more.

Description:

tThe Beijing oupost of this grand Asian chain offers elaborate Cantonese and Chaozhou fare to those brandishing large expense accounts. The luxurious, imperial style décor and fine service may make you feel like a little prince, though not everyone may relish or appreciate highly prized ingredients like sea cucumber, shark's fin and abalone. Perfect if you're not paying.

Our Local Expert Says:

Incredible 3-D model of Beijing is worth the visit alone.

Description:

The city's historical and cultural protection plan, business district plan, Olympic plan and Beijing's future city layout are featured in the four-storey museum. IMAX theater features a short 3D movie on Beijing's development.

Our Local Expert Says:

The best place to attempt a run outdoors in Beijing. Enter at the west gate and follow a local expat along the winding pathways. Currently undergoing expansion to the north, there is a decent driving range and 9 hole golf course on the southeast corner of the park.

Description:

This recently developed activity park has been touted as the 'Summer Palace of western Beijing', and while it offers little comparable in the way of history or culture, it is nonetheless a fun place to spend a summer's day. Activities for kids (large and small) include bumper cars, fairground rides and two large outdoor swimming pools. A 75 meter bungee tower over the lake caters to thrill seekers, while more sedate visitors can relax in a hired boat with an ice-cream or soft drink from one of the many vendors.

Our Local Expert Says:

Delivers to your door free of charge.

Description:

This small Italian bistro offers outstanding food and service at highly competitive prices. The interior is simply yet warmly decorated in earthy shades of red, orange and yellow. The waiters are attentive and speak good English, and the menu is also in English. The pizzas here are definitely among Beijing's finest, and the pastas dishes are also excellent, particularly the Carbonara. Kids can make their very own mini-pizzas to be cooked by Annie's chef.

Our Local Expert Says:

A really great place to take the kids. Also features bumper cars and mini golf.

Description:

Tuan Jie Hu Park is located in the southwest part of the Tuan Jie Hu area, Chao Yang District. It covers an area of 13.8 hectares with a water surface of 5.4 hectares. The park features a southern Chinese garden-style layout. In summer, the lake in the center of the park is open. A large swimming pool with a yellow sand beach has become a major draw card for summer swimmers, especially with the addition of a wave machine. Beach bums may find a volleyball competition in progress.

Our Local Expert Says:

Popular bar and pizza joint. Fills up quickly on weekends, so grab a table and stay for live music.

Description:

A regular stop for Beijing's European community, this genial tavern in Sanlitun is rightfully known for its Belgian whites and assorted pizzas baked on the premises in a stone oven. Casually done up like a Belgian inn, it's a favorite of families who come early in the evening, as well as solitary drinkers who congregate along the welcoming brick-built bar.

Description:

Acrobatics has a long and proud history that stretches back well into Imperial China. This tourist-friendly version is guaranteed to boggle the mind with the performers' amazing human flexibility and dexterity. They jump, they tumble, and they do things that make the audience hold its collective breath in excitement. In one act, performers spin delicate plates on poles. Maybe a quick peek as the curtain closes will reveal how the plate spinners hold those things up there.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beginning with the massive water fountain and flag display out front, the Hyatt is the most impressive hotel in Beijing with service to match. The Red Moon bar is popular not just with hotel guests, as is Made in China, the in house restaurant. Don't forget to pack your suit. The indoor pool looks like a lush tropical lagoon.

Description:

Another one from the Hyatt stable, this hotel will offer you luxury beyond imagination. Steeped in Oriental traditions, yet very modern in design and amenities, the Grand Hyatt ensures a comfortable stay. Apart from the regular luxury features present in all the 825 rooms and suites, this hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center and a business center. It even provides limousine services, sight seeing tours, secretarial services and more.

Description:

If you only visit one temple after the Temple of Heaven, this should be it. A complex of progressively larger buildings topped with ornate yellow-tiled roofs, Yonghe Gong was built in 1694 and originally belonged to the Qing prince who would become the Yongzheng emperor. As was the custom, the complex was converted to a temple after Yongzheng's move to the Forbidden City in 1744. The temple is home to several rather beautiful incense burners, including a particularly ornate one in the second courtyard that dates back to 1746. The Falun Dian (Hall of the Wheel of Law), second to last of the major buildings, contains a 6m (20-ft.) bronze statue of Tsongkapa (1357-1419), the founder of the reformist Yellow Hat (Geluk) sect of Tibetan Buddhism, which is now the dominant school of Tibetan Buddhism. He's easily recognized by his pointed cap with long earflaps. The last of the five central halls, the Wanfu Ge (Tower of Ten Thousand Happinesses), houses the temple's prize possession -- an ominous Tibetan-style statue of Maitreya (the future Buddha), 18m (59 ft.) tall, carved from a single piece of white sandalwood. Once something of a circus, Yonghe Gong is slowly starting to feel like a place...

Description:

This is one of our favorite new neighborhood haunts -- the sunny outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy lunch or Sunday brunch. Their pizza is top notch, and if you're looking for a healthy breakfast, try the granola and fresh yogurt. The cafe also boasts wireless Internet access and a good wine selection. Service takes a sharp nose-dive when the restaurant gets busy, and you may find yourself repeatedly flagging down staff to get your food.

Our Local Expert Says:

Nanluoguxiang is a great place to chill out and enjoy the surrounding architecture. It has plenty of choices for eating and drinking without the all-out party atmosphere associated with Sanlitun bar area.

Description:

Nanluoguxiang is one of the best preserved historical areas of downtown Beijing, as well as being one of the most chic and trendy places to hang out in the afternoons and evenings. The 768-metre-long south-north central lane, with 16 hutong branching off the central lane, is full of interesting craft shops, relaxing cafes and trendy bars. The area has a history of over 700 years and is one of the oldest hutong neighborhoods in the city. Nanluoguxiang has been fully restored to its former glory, and is surrounding by other historic sites such as Houhai Lake and the Drum and Bell Towers.

Description:

An imperial playground dating back to the Tartar Jin dynasty (1115-1234), Bei Hai lies to the north of Zhong Hai and Nan Hai, which were also opened to the public in 1925. In the best tradition of Animal Farm, the Communist leaders created a new Forbidden City and named it Zhong Nan Hai. Bei Hai was left to the masses. Although it's a convenient way to combine a morning visit to the Forbidden City with a more relaxing afternoon in the Back Lakes area, most visitors have a quick peek at the southern half and then disappear. Unfortunately, they miss the north side of the park, which is more interesting.

Entering from the south, you come to Tuan Cheng (Round City), a small citadel on a raised platform whose most notable structure, Chengguang Dian, houses a 1.5m-tall (5-ft.) statue of a feminine-looking Buddha, crafted from Burmese white jade. Crossing the Yong'an Bridge to Qiong Dao (Qiong Islet), you soon reach Yong'an Si, where the founder of the prominent Geluk sect, Tsongkapa, was the focus of devotion. He is now portrayed as a Chinese reformer of corrupt Tibetan Buddhism, on the grounds that he was born in Qinghai rather than "autonomous" Tibet. From here, boats run to the north side...

Our Local Expert Says:

Be sure to order a pitcher of the milky, white fermented rice wine.

Description:

Arty, minimalist and hip, it's hard not to feel a bit like a bon vivant here, eating fashionably small portions of flavorful, spicy, Yunnan cuisine. Try the tree bark-yes, tree bark-salad with its delectable dressing. The food is a joy to look at and eat.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beginning with the massive water fountain and flag display out front, the Hyatt is the most impressive hotel in Beijing with service to match. The Red Moon bar is popular not just with hotel guests, as is Made in China, the in house restaurant. Don't forget to pack your suit. The indoor pool looks like a lush tropical lagoon.

Description:

Another one from the Hyatt stable, this hotel will offer you luxury beyond imagination. Steeped in Oriental traditions, yet very modern in design and amenities, the Grand Hyatt ensures a comfortable stay. Apart from the regular luxury features present in all the 825 rooms and suites, this hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center and a business center. It even provides limousine services, sight seeing tours, secretarial services and more.

Our Local Expert Says:

"Tiantan" is dripping in history and imperial significance. Grab a friend and share a secret across the Echo Wall at the Imperial Vault of Heaven. Crowd into the middle of Circular Altar, which the Chinese believe to be the point at the center of the universe.

Description:

Located in the South-eastern area of Beijing, the Temple of Heaven is a stunning set of buildings completed in 1420 for prayer and worship. The Temple covers 2.73 square km of gardens and buildings, built to strict philosophical requirements. The centrepiece of Tian Tan is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. This 38-metre high tower is intricately decorated both inside and out, and is one of the most famous landmarks within the city. Extensive renovation of the site took place in 2006, with the Temple of Heaven recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.

Our Local Expert Says:

For guaranteed quality (and a more relaxed shopping experience), visit the stores on the top floor. Despite the surroundings there, bargaining is still expected.

Description:

A huge range of pearls is available at all price points. Knowing a bit in advance can help determine the real from the fake pearls. You'll also be able to find a sundry of other items at the market, but due to the high volume of tourists, prices are becoming a bit inflated.

Description:

It's a sign of the times that Mao's best-known slogan can be used so frivolously by this chic Thai eatery. In the heart of the San Li Tun diplomatic quarter, you'll find Beijing's finest Thai food at very reasonable prices. The grilled beef salad and green chicken curry are highly recommended, and the pad thai (rice noodles with seafood in peanut sauce) is done to perfection. The small but interesting wine list has a limited by-the-glass selection. The temptation to use inappropriate local ingredients (such as cabbage!) plagues other Thai restaurants in the capital, but here the people are given their due.

Our Local Expert Says:

Typically very crowded -- for a reason. Covered outdoor seating with views of the park is available rain or shine.

Description:

With mouth-watering German sausages and sauerkraut, this classic German establishment will satisfy any craving with hearty portions of traditional German fare in a comfortable environment. Perfect for an entertaining dinner out to satisfy major hunger pains.

Description:

The Temple of the Sun (Ri Tan) served as an altar where the emperor conducted annual rites. Built in 1530, Ri Tan is a pleasant park with a delightful outdoor teahouse and a rock-climbing wall at its heart. Fishponds, a pedal-powered monorail, kites, and a bonsai market also keep the locals amused.

The other imperial altars are located in similar city parks, roughly marking the five points of the Chinese compass. To the north is Di Tan Gongyuan (Temple of Earth), just north of the Lama Temple; to the west is Yue Tan Gongyuan (Temple of the Moon); the much grander Tian Tan Gongyuan (Temple of Heaven) marks the southern point. She Ji Tan (Altar of Land and Grain) in Zhongshan Gongyuan southwest of the Forbidden City, pre-dates them all by several centuries, and marks that peculiarly Chinese compass point, the center.

Our Local Expert Says:

Some of the best deals to be found are on tailored clothing, where a whole men’s suit can be tailored and handmade for under $150.

Description:

XiuShui market is a mecca for original and fake goods in Beijing. Moved from its original outdoor home in 2005, the indoor Silk Market consists of five floors of clothing, accessories, electronics, souvenirs and arts and crafts. This is a great place to find a deal and pick up gifts for friends as well as cheap but fairly decent quality fake versions of top fashion brands. XiuShui Silk Market can get a bit stressful and crowded, but it is an interesting experience and there are bargains to be had if you look around carefully. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby to relieve stress after a few hours of shopping.

Description:

The chef-owner behind this popular courtyard restaurant claims to have created a new Chinese supercuisine, assembled from the best of the country's regional cooking styles. Whether Huacai (his name for the cuisine) will ever spread beyond Beijing remains to be seen, but his long menu is one of the city's most impressive. The new restaurant is slightly less raucous than the recently demolished original, but locals still crowd around tables at night to devour heaped plates of spicy crayfish (mala longxia) and drink green "good for health" beer. Try the larou douya juanbing, a mix of spicy bacon and bean sprouts rolled in pancakes roast duck-style.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beginning with the massive water fountain and flag display out front, the Hyatt is the most impressive hotel in Beijing with service to match. The Red Moon bar is popular not just with hotel guests, as is Made in China, the in house restaurant. Don't forget to pack your suit. The indoor pool looks like a lush tropical lagoon.

Description:

Another one from the Hyatt stable, this hotel will offer you luxury beyond imagination. Steeped in Oriental traditions, yet very modern in design and amenities, the Grand Hyatt ensures a comfortable stay. Apart from the regular luxury features present in all the 825 rooms and suites, this hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center and a business center. It even provides limousine services, sight seeing tours, secretarial services and more.

Our Local Expert Says:

Nothing tops off a greasy Sunday brunch like one of Grandma's milkshakes

Description:

Complete with checkered tablecloths and friendly, English-speaking wait staff, this eatery attracts homesick American families who scoff down fluffy pancakes, steak sandwiches, hamburgers and fries and hunks of the best cheesecake in town by the plateful, all washed down by cups of black coffee.

Description:

For those seeking a breath of fresh air and a break from the urban hustle and bustle of big city life, the botanical garden makes an excellent day outing. The flowers and plants are in bloom from early spring to late fall every year. Visitors also have a chance to visit the Wufuo Temple here.

Description:

The Western Hills landscape has served as both a religious place and a scenic spot for local people. Eight Sites Park is known for the eight temples and pagodas that mark an ascending path to the summit of a hill within the park. Several temples are worth visiting due to the impressive statues and wall paintings, regardless of their faint color. The park is also an ideal spot for watching the beautifully colored maple leaves fall from the trees in autumn. Those who enjoy horseback riding can follow a meandering trail to the nearby Fragrant Hills Park.

Description:

Constructed in 1984, this was the first large modern amusement park in Beijing. Surrounded by a scenic lake, this park is fun for the whole family. Adults and children alike can indulge themselves by rolling on the 'Super Train' ride or by taking a ride in the 'Water Car'. Sometimes circuses and stuntmen give fantastic shows in the park. Beijing's equivalent to Disneyland.

Our Local Expert Says:

For dinner, don't miss the three cup chicken or the kung pao shrimp. For dessert, don't pass on the mango desserts or red bean ice mountains.

Description:

This buzzy and fun destination is where the cool kids go for beef noodle soup after a night out at the clubs. With huge windows and comfortable chairs, you can snack away in style. Try their leaning towers of shaved ice smothered with sweet toppings. Perfect for hungry fashionistas.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beginning with the massive water fountain and flag display out front, the Hyatt is the most impressive hotel in Beijing with service to match. The Red Moon bar is popular not just with hotel guests, as is Made in China, the in house restaurant. Don't forget to pack your suit. The indoor pool looks like a lush tropical lagoon.

Description:

Another one from the Hyatt stable, this hotel will offer you luxury beyond imagination. Steeped in Oriental traditions, yet very modern in design and amenities, the Grand Hyatt ensures a comfortable stay. Apart from the regular luxury features present in all the 825 rooms and suites, this hotel also has a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center and a business center. It even provides limousine services, sight seeing tours, secretarial services and more.

Our Local Expert Says:

Voted Beijing's Best Pizza

Description:

This hard-to-find pizzeria occupies the site of a former Buddhist nunnery and features untouched murals in the loft. There's no religious theme to the handmade thin-crust pizzas, but if you've arrived from the wilds of China, you may experience something akin to a spiritual experience. The only jarring touch is the presence of green pepper and black olives on an otherwise sublime three-cheese pizza.

Our Local Expert Says:

Extremely popular with foreign visitors because of the vast array of Western dining options and amenities available in the area.

Description:

The five-star Kempinski Hotel offers business travelers every amenity in Chaoyang, Beijing's business district close to the diplomatic quarter. With 529 well appointed rooms and suites, regional and international cuisines at its nine restaurants and bars, function rooms and conference centers, the Kempinski is a top choice for international business travel. Facilities include two health centers, an exhaustively complete business center, and car and driver services. If your stay is an extended one, the Kempinski also has apartments for short term rent.