Culturally Beijing

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:

This massive mausoleum and memorial hall was built right in the center of Tiananmen Square—the center of Beijing and metaphorically of the whole of China; shortly after Mao's death in 1976. For nearly thirty years he was the center of the Chinese universe, and however the future judges him he is certainly still revered today. The queues that file into the building and pass his glass sarcophagus are long but fast moving, and visitors often get the feeling they are being whisked away before they can get a good look at the mummified corpse. Admission is free.

Description:

When you go shopping in the Qian Men commercial area, two majestic towers greet your eyes. They are the Gate of True Sun and Arrow Tower, dubbed as Qian Men (front gate), which stand on the south side of Tiananmen Square. Originally built in 1419, the gate was the south entrance of the Beijing inner city during the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911). It is the largest well-preserved city gate in Beijing. The gate has become a museum of local customs, and visitors can see Beijing's old city wall, streets, markets and houses through historical photos and relics.

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:

Thanks to the contemporary urban rat race, many young Beijingers find themselves too busy to date. Concerned parents (and eager future grandparents) gather here on Saturday morning to play matchmaker. Bring a headshot and line up a date.

Description:

This park used to be an altar for the gods of earth and grain. Visitors can still see a five-coloured earth altar, symbolizing the rule of the Emperor over the state. The woodlands in the park offer a place to relax among the precious ancient trees. Another option is to rent a small boat and row in the moat around the Forbidden City – there are good views of the turrets on the wall.

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:

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:

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:

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.

Description:

Beijing's Chaoyang Theater is the place to visit if you want to soak in some Chinese culture and thoroughly enjoy yourself along the way. The theater regularly hosts the Chinese Opera. This is a place to visit for traditional Chinese acrobatic shows, and local comedy dramas. It is a truly rewarding experience to watch the Beijing opera with its colorful costumes and lively musicians.

Description:

This well-established Belgian-managed bar caters to all nationalities. With an interesting range of Belgian beers, this local spot is sure to have the brew you're looking for. Indoors, get cozy with the warm atmosphere and watch out for the giant tree in the middle of the room. Part of the Belgian Brown Cafe, the Tree features a wood fired pizza oven and lots of bar space for groups and parties.

Description:

The Kerry Centre is our top choice for a hotel in the Central Business District. Where nearby China World (also a Shangri-La hotel) plays instrumental versions of Carpenters classics, Kerry Centre has hip lounge music in public areas. Standard rooms are decorated in textured, solid colors of gold and dark green, with maroon accent pillows. Bathrooms are small and rather awkwardly laid out, with tubs jammed into the corner and toilets tucked behind the door. Executive floors have far roomier bathrooms and added luxuries like free broadband or Wi-Fi Internet, Bose CD players, huge plasma TVs, and DVD players. They also have the best health club in town, including a spacious gym with the latest equipment, a 35m (115-ft.) indoor lap pool and two Jacuzzis, two indoor tennis courts, and even a short outdoor jogging path. Their restaurant Horizon is popular for its scrumptious ¥168 ($22/£11) dim sum lunch buffet for two, and Centro is a popular gathering spot for proper cocktails and a night of people watching.

Facilities: 2 restaurants; bar; indoor pool; indoor basketball/tennis/badminton courts; fitness center; children's play area; concierge; tour desk; business center; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; same-day dry-cleaning/laundry service; executive-level rooms; 5 nonsmoking floors; currency exchange; roof-top track for running and in-line skating; sun deck

Our Local Expert Says:

Most of the goods in Panjiayuan are of excellent quality, although as with most of these markets bargaining is essential to achieve a good price.

Description:

This classic flea market in the south-eastern part of Beijing has thousands of individual shops and offers a brilliant selection of antiques for all budgets. Along with the Great Wall, Forbidden City and Roast Duck, Panjiayuan is one of the most popular destinations tourists in Beijing. Whether looking for a simple gift for family or a rare and expensive treasure, Panjiayuan is a lively and exciting market to visit. The market is divided into four zones for ease of shopping - the handicrafts zone, the ancient and old furniture zone, the zone of ancient and old calligraphic works, paintings, books and periodicals, and the zone of ancient architecture.

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

In addition to the ribs, don't miss the mango salad, fruit tea, coconut fish, or beef wrapped mushrooms.

Description:

Classy and affordable fusion dining features hints of Sichuanese spice to enliven the tasty repertoire. Whether for a business lunch or a family dinner, you'll get plenty of tasty food for the buck. Sip refreshing iced drinks while feasting on the signature dish, guoqiao paigu, a slab of spiced ribs over melt-in-your-mouth potatoes.

Description:

Guangji Temple is the site of the Buddhist Association of China as well as the spiritual home for Chinese Buddhists. The temple was built midway through the Qing Dynasty. The front yard is for receiving worshippers, while the back area has a beautiful garden adjoining an antique building. Visitors can buy Buddhist scriptures and discuss philosophical and spiritual matters with the monks. Buddhist ceremonies are conducted every afternoon. Special ceremonies are held on the first day and the 15th day of each lunar month.

Description:

Acting as a memorial to one of the most influential thinkers of the May Fourth Movement, the Lu Xun Museum offers a chance to see where Lu Xun lived, wrote and inspired many young students with his progressive ideas on government and society. A long-time professor of Beijing University, Lu Xun wrote numerous documents from 1912 to 1936, detailing his ideas of a new China. A detailed explanation of the history of the May Fourth Movement and Lu Xun's role in it can be found, along with his writing desk and utensils, manuscripts, diaries and works of calligraphy.

Description:

Ranking among the world's ten major military museums, the Museum of Revolutionary Military shows the 5,000-year history of the military in China. Exhibits are separated into five halls. The museum includes items from the Red Army's The Long March in the 1930s, as well as exhibits related to the war against Japan in the 1930s. The museum also houses a large collection of weapons dating from ancient China (such as stone axes and knives, and bronze swords) up through the modern era (guns, tanks, and bomber plans).

Description:

This somewhat garishly decorated teahouse is named for one of the most famous plays by celebrated Chinese writer Lao She. Performances change nightly but always include opera and acrobatics. It pays to buy the more expensive tickets, as views from the rear seats are frequently obscured. Nightly shows at 7:50pm.

Our Local Expert Says:

Repeatedly named the best sushi restaurant in town, Hatsune is one of few restaurants in Beijing that require a reservation. If you forget, there is a great Japanese BBQ place downstairs where you can also order Hatsune's signature rolls.

Description:

A hip, yet relaxed, atmosphere and constant innovation (especially in advertising) make Hatsune a Beijing legend. The fresh sashimi plates and scrumptious rolls are the order of the evening, especially the spicy "119 roll." Sit back, relax and take in the best sushi you'll get this side of Tokyo.

Our Local Expert Says:

Live music on top of the expertly mixed cocktails make Centro deserving of its "it" status.

Description:

Dress to impress, because this upscale lounge is not a t-shirt and jeans joint. Some swear Centro is the "it" place in Beijing to sip champagne. Poshly decorated in golden yellows with bartenders who know how to mix a mean cocktail, Centro books live jazz and regularly attracts a celebrity crowd. Perfect for a classy flute of chilled champagne.

Description:

The Kerry Centre is our top choice for a hotel in the Central Business District. Where nearby China World (also a Shangri-La hotel) plays instrumental versions of Carpenters classics, Kerry Centre has hip lounge music in public areas. Standard rooms are decorated in textured, solid colors of gold and dark green, with maroon accent pillows. Bathrooms are small and rather awkwardly laid out, with tubs jammed into the corner and toilets tucked behind the door. Executive floors have far roomier bathrooms and added luxuries like free broadband or Wi-Fi Internet, Bose CD players, huge plasma TVs, and DVD players. They also have the best health club in town, including a spacious gym with the latest equipment, a 35m (115-ft.) indoor lap pool and two Jacuzzis, two indoor tennis courts, and even a short outdoor jogging path. Their restaurant Horizon is popular for its scrumptious ¥168 ($22/£11) dim sum lunch buffet for two, and Centro is a popular gathering spot for proper cocktails and a night of people watching.

Facilities: 2 restaurants; bar; indoor pool; indoor basketball/tennis/badminton courts; fitness center; children's play area; concierge; tour desk; business center; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; same-day dry-cleaning/laundry service; executive-level rooms; 5 nonsmoking floors; currency exchange; roof-top track for running and in-line skating; sun deck

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.

Description:

Da Zha Lan (pronounced Da Sha Lanr by Beijing Locals) is one of the few remnants of the city's original system of hutongs, narrow alleys and lanes of either residential or commercial purpose. This narrow Qing Dynasty(1644-1911) street, which resembles a Western city's China town, plays host to a clutch of Beijing's most famous shops and traditional industries: Tong Ren Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Shop, Zhang Yi Yuan Tea Shop, and the Rui Fu Xiang Silk Shop. There are also trinket shops, back-street cinemas, leather and fur stores and a branch of Tianjin's famous Gou Bu Li fast food restaurant.

Description:

Liu Li Chang is located in Qian Men, the oldest neighborhood in the city, where tradition seems to have been retained. Here you will find old coins, scrolls, Tibetan and Mongolian antiques, calligraphy materials and stamps. Even if you are not interested in these kinds of purchases you should visit this street for a glimpse of an older style of Beijing. The buildings have painted wooden beams and roofs topped with curved Chinese tiles.

Description:

Firmly established on the tourist trail, this backstreet courtyard restaurant packs in those on the hunt for Beijing's best bird. The duck is roasted in front of your eyes and is well worth the hassle of trying to find the place. Unfortunately, the rest of the menu is merely adequate and Li Qun's popularity often equates to lackadaisical service. The photos of visiting dignitaries equates to tourist prices.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beautiful courtyard restaurant. Kitschy decorations and "imperial" portions may be too much for everyday, but the restaurant is great for out of town guests.

Description:

This is an eatery designed to inspire patrons with visions of China's past—even the rest-rooms feature historical relics. Wining and dining here is like participating in a secret ruling-class gathering of 40 years ago. The café is in one room of an old courtyard-style four-roomed house. Wooden doors and dark latticed wood window frames shelter couches and easy chairs. Coffee is made from beans grown in China's Yunan province, while the restaurant's menu offers dishes said to be favorites of China's early communist leaders.

Description:

A 32-kilometer city lies beneath Beijing. Built between 1969-1979, during a period of Sino-Soviet tension, it was intended to house the area's population in case of enemy air raids. The complex even included daily necessities such as hairdressers and grocery stores. Visits are guided, but could be improved if the operators made re-creations of what underground life might have been like. What you do see is blocked-off tunnels and signs giving directions to Tiananmen Square, The Summer Palace and other locations. It is worth a visit as long as you use your imagination.

Our Local Expert Says:

Larger sized rooms are nice for a group foot massage after a long day of touring.

Description:

A range of decadent Thai and Chinese-style massages in a soothing, modern setting. One of the best in Beijing.

Our Local Expert Says:

A winner of numerous awards. Exquisite presentation takes precedence over the actual cuisine.

Description:

A combination of beautifully presented mouth-watering food, chic décor and impeccable service, Green T. House kicks up the standard a couple of notches. International master chefs prepare innovative fusion cuisine blurring the line between food and art.

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.

Description:

Don't be put off by the drab interior of the hotel that houses Q Bar. The bar, located on the top floor, is an oasis of style, with dim lighting, lounge music, and a long bar nestled against a window with panoramic views. Here you will find the best martinis in town. Unfortunately, the love and devotion owners George and Echo pour into those drinks often translate into slow service. The expansive rooftop seating is fantastic and DJs spin lounge and house music on weekends. Open 6pm to 2am.

Description:

The Kerry Centre is our top choice for a hotel in the Central Business District. Where nearby China World (also a Shangri-La hotel) plays instrumental versions of Carpenters classics, Kerry Centre has hip lounge music in public areas. Standard rooms are decorated in textured, solid colors of gold and dark green, with maroon accent pillows. Bathrooms are small and rather awkwardly laid out, with tubs jammed into the corner and toilets tucked behind the door. Executive floors have far roomier bathrooms and added luxuries like free broadband or Wi-Fi Internet, Bose CD players, huge plasma TVs, and DVD players. They also have the best health club in town, including a spacious gym with the latest equipment, a 35m (115-ft.) indoor lap pool and two Jacuzzis, two indoor tennis courts, and even a short outdoor jogging path. Their restaurant Horizon is popular for its scrumptious ¥168 ($22/£11) dim sum lunch buffet for two, and Centro is a popular gathering spot for proper cocktails and a night of people watching.

Facilities: 2 restaurants; bar; indoor pool; indoor basketball/tennis/badminton courts; fitness center; children's play area; concierge; tour desk; business center; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; same-day dry-cleaning/laundry service; executive-level rooms; 5 nonsmoking floors; currency exchange; roof-top track for running and in-line skating; sun deck

Description:

An awe-inspiring 15th century watchtower is the setting for this delightful gallery. Cutting edge works of modern Chinese art play off the cavernous interior and classical columns and beams of Ming dynasty architecture. Oils, inks, acrylics, sculptures, photography, printmaking and performance art by some of today's best-known artists are displayed. Redgate has gained an international reputation for showcasing the work of new and emerging Chinese artists and introducing them to the world. The staff is considered a fountain of information about what is happening in Chinese and international art circles. Exhibitions vary monthly. Call for details.

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.

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 of worship, as there are now many Chinese devotees of Tibetan Buddhism.

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.

Our Local Expert Says:

Try the sweet almond tofu dessert.

Description:

This lovely little café is more upmarket and expensive than its Nanguoluxiang neighbors, but taste the blanc mange and you'll not begrudge it. Perfect for sweet snacks on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Our Local Expert Says:

Explore the less crowded and more peaceful reaches of Houhai.

Description:

On the north bank of the beautiful Hou Hai area lies a prince's mansion circa the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The former residence of Soong Ching Ling lies at the garden of this mansion. Madam Soong, wife of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China, was the late honorary chairperson of the new China. After she passed away on 1981, her residence was turned into a museum dedicated to the memory of her and her husband. The house is kept as it was when she was alive.

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.

Description:

Boasting dark wood paneling and floor to ceiling windows offering an eyeful of Houhai, this small jazz dive defines rugged sophistication. Started by Liu Yue, Cui Jian's former saxophonist, it's the most authentic jazz joint in town, featuring top acts from Thursday to Sunday. Perfect for those tired of glitz but hungry for jazz.

Description:

The Kerry Centre is our top choice for a hotel in the Central Business District. Where nearby China World (also a Shangri-La hotel) plays instrumental versions of Carpenters classics, Kerry Centre has hip lounge music in public areas. Standard rooms are decorated in textured, solid colors of gold and dark green, with maroon accent pillows. Bathrooms are small and rather awkwardly laid out, with tubs jammed into the corner and toilets tucked behind the door. Executive floors have far roomier bathrooms and added luxuries like free broadband or Wi-Fi Internet, Bose CD players, huge plasma TVs, and DVD players. They also have the best health club in town, including a spacious gym with the latest equipment, a 35m (115-ft.) indoor lap pool and two Jacuzzis, two indoor tennis courts, and even a short outdoor jogging path. Their restaurant Horizon is popular for its scrumptious ¥168 ($22/£11) dim sum lunch buffet for two, and Centro is a popular gathering spot for proper cocktails and a night of people watching.

Facilities: 2 restaurants; bar; indoor pool; indoor basketball/tennis/badminton courts; fitness center; children's play area; concierge; tour desk; business center; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; same-day dry-cleaning/laundry service; executive-level rooms; 5 nonsmoking floors; currency exchange; roof-top track for running and in-line skating; sun deck

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.

Description:

This site consists mainly of broken columns and marble facades. The original palace was destroyed by Anglo-French troops who set fire to it after the Taiping Rebellion in 1860. Few relics survived the three-day-and-night fire, but traces of the palace's architectural beauty can still be seen. The site, including a vast lake, is far larger than the new Summer Palace. It is popular with people seeking a quieter and more secluded alternative to the overcrowded excesses of the Summer Palace and other major tourist spots.

Description:

Located in the beautiful Wan Shou Temple, the Beijing Art Museum displays 50,000 pieces of Chinese paintings, seal cuttings, jade carvings, porcelain and pottery wares, handicrafts, furniture and ancient coins. The temple itself is rarely visited and acts as a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of Beijing. Built by Empress Dowager Li in 1578, it once acted as a resting place for royalty making their way from the Forbidden City to the Summer Palace. The buildings and gardens that make up the complex are worth a visit in their own right.

Description:

A new edition to Beijing's art scene, the Beijing Design Museum is located within the university district of Hai Dian, thus catering to the hip student crowd. In fact, it could be said that this is one of the 'hipper' spaces in town, exhibiting everything from twentieth century film posters to philosophically warped oils to interactive mixed media projects. Definitely worth a visit as there is always something interesting and perhaps a little bit strange going on. Call ahead for a detailed listing of exhibitions and performances.

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 CourtYard Gallery draws on a talented pool of young, avant-garde Chinese artists and hosts among the most exiting exhibitions in the capital, including shows by some of the best-known names in the contemporary Beijing art scene. Housed in the basement of the renowned CourtYard Restaurant, works include oils, inks, engravings, lithography and sculpture. The gallery is not large, and provides an ideal distraction for diners upstairs or anyone passing by. Most works are for sale. Check the snazzy website for details of current exhibitions.

Admission: Free

Description:

If you read the food magazines, this may be the one Beijing restaurant you know. Owned by a Chinese-American lawyer with family roots in Beijing, the CourtYard serves admirable fare but wins the most accolades for its setting, in a restored courtyard-style house next to the Forbidden City. The house's gray brick exterior still blends with its old Beijing surroundings, but inside is a different world: modernist white and glass, with tall art-hung walls and a beckoning staircase that leads to a contemporary art gallery in the basement. The fare isn't genuine fusion; dishes are recognizably Occidental or Oriental with only token mixing of styles, but they're delectable nonetheless. Foie gras brûlée, cashew-crusted lamb chop, and black cod with tomato marmalade are longtime favorites. The tender grilled chicken breast in lemon grass and coconut curry is superb, justifying rave reviews almost by itself. The wine list is more comprehensive and well thought out than anything this side of Hong Kong, with a surprisingly large number available by the glass. An intimate cigar lounge upstairs, furnished with leather couches, looks out across the Forbidden City's eastern moat.

Our Local Expert Says:

The coolest place in Beijing to be seen rubbing elbows with young starlets and newly minted business successes. Don't forget to check out the bathrooms.

Description:

French interior designer Philippe Starck has dolloped the Twin Towers with glamour, making eye candy the real main course at this restaurant and bar. So sip a lychee martini, revel in the exotic detail and be sure to check out the private mirrored bathrooms. At night, high-end partiers pile in to sip bubbly while house DJs spin. This place is not cheap, but what were you expecting, dahling? Perfect for the glitterati.

Description:

The Kerry Centre is our top choice for a hotel in the Central Business District. Where nearby China World (also a Shangri-La hotel) plays instrumental versions of Carpenters classics, Kerry Centre has hip lounge music in public areas. Standard rooms are decorated in textured, solid colors of gold and dark green, with maroon accent pillows. Bathrooms are small and rather awkwardly laid out, with tubs jammed into the corner and toilets tucked behind the door. Executive floors have far roomier bathrooms and added luxuries like free broadband or Wi-Fi Internet, Bose CD players, huge plasma TVs, and DVD players. They also have the best health club in town, including a spacious gym with the latest equipment, a 35m (115-ft.) indoor lap pool and two Jacuzzis, two indoor tennis courts, and even a short outdoor jogging path. Their restaurant Horizon is popular for its scrumptious ¥168 ($22/£11) dim sum lunch buffet for two, and Centro is a popular gathering spot for proper cocktails and a night of people watching.

Facilities: 2 restaurants; bar; indoor pool; indoor basketball/tennis/badminton courts; fitness center; children's play area; concierge; tour desk; business center; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; same-day dry-cleaning/laundry service; executive-level rooms; 5 nonsmoking floors; currency exchange; roof-top track for running and in-line skating; sun deck

Our Local Expert Says:

Don't leave without checking out the restrooms.

Description:

This hip nightspot has succeeded in differentiating itself from the rank and file of hotel bars. With a regular slate of top-notch live acts and DJs coming through, and great bartenders serving killer martinis, Zeta attracts a well-heeled crowd not averse to getting down. Try the VIP throne room for something truly different.

Description:

Put a Japanese restaurant, a sexy cocktail bar and a dimly-lit comfy lounge together in Beijing and what do you get? RBL! Chef Dan believes that food is an art as much as a science—marvel at his precisely-cut sushi and well-presented Dalian scallop sashimi. But the Nagasaki suckling pig in kumquat sauce and the Shandong eel soaked in oils and spices is to die for. Fresh ingredients are added into these dishes, which is evident by the taste. For dessert, relax over a green tea cheesecake or the miso crème brûlée before you head over to the laidback lounge section for a chat with pals.

Our Local Expert Says:

Delicious food with great ambiance

Description:

At the edge of Wangfujing's snack street you'll find contemporary Latin American cuisine served in a striking restaurant featuring vaulted ceilings and a dining area surrounded by Renaissance art panels. The chef's Miami (South Beach) pedigree means meals that are "muy delicioso" (their cerviche is justifiably famous). The impressive wine list and great-value set menus draw in a regular crowd. Perfect for an upbeat Latin get together.

Description:

The huge range of tapas, large wine list, and comfortable dining room make us regulars at this elegant restaurant, decorated to look like a lovely Spanish living room. We love the chicken croquettes, mushroom risotto, and deep-fried baby squid. The chocolate molten cake, flanked by small scoops of hazelnut and vanilla ice cream, is our favorite dessert in town.

Description:

Sambal embraces and surpasses all the clichés of a chic Beijing eatery. It's a cozy courtyard house decorated with antique and modern furnishings, relaxed service, and a well-balanced wine list. And then there's the food, prepared by a charming chef from Kuala Lumpur. You'll need to call a day in advance for the superb double-braised Australian lobster in nyonya sauce, or the incredibly fresh chile curry crab, served on a bed of curry leaves, dried shrimp, and chile paste. Try the fried four-sided bean with cashew nut sauce, or the yogurt-based mutton curry. Don't miss the signature dish, Kapitan chicken, a mildly spicy dish with a nutty aftertaste, said to have been invented when Chinese migrants reached Penang during the Ming dynasty. The kuih dadar, shredded coconut fried with palm sugar and wrapped in a padang leaf roll, is delectable.

Description:

Just minutes away from the Forbidden City, the Wan Fung Art Gallery is located in buildings that once housed China's imperial archives. These are now used to showcase the works of contemporary Chinese artists, with long-term displays by contract artists and regular special exhibitions, both domestic and foreign. There is usually an interesting mix of traditional and modern styles and media. All works are for sale, but for those with a limited budget a small shop sells prints of the more popular works on display.

Description:

Built during the early 1950s, this main hall of the China National Museum of Fine Arts was a Communist monolith, displaying Red Guard-influenced pieces. Now, it holds temporary and permanent exhibitions of modern Chinese painting, calligraphy, prints and sculpture. Recently, foreign artists have been invited to hold exhibitions of their work. A well-stocked print and art supplies shop is located within the gallery.

Call for information on what is currently being shown. Admission prices vary with each show.

Description:

Covering an area of more than 20,000 square meters, this is the country's second largest Confucian temple, smaller only than the one in Confucius' hometown of Qu Fu, Shan Dong Province. Built in 1306, it consists of four courtyards and houses 198 stone tablets that bear the names of more than 50,000 scholars who passed the imperial exams in the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. A ceremony in honor of Confucius, China's great sage and philosopher, is held on September 28 annually.

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.

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.