Beijing: Living Guide
History lovers, you are going to be in your element! This city is thriving in historical artifacts and natural beauty. If that’s not your forte, it’s still a hugely populated city with loads of expats. There are buzzing pubs and clubs - and some of the best restaurants in China!
The Basics
Beijing is the capital city of China with a population of over 21 million. It is located in Hebei Province, North China - around 50km from Langfang, 110km from Tianjin and 140km from Baoding.
Due to being so far north and bordering Mongolia and Russia, Beijing is predominantly a rather chilly city. Ranging from -8 to 10° between October to March however, it can be as hot as 30° within the summer months especially with the humidity. Make sure to pack scarves and bikinis.
The three main forms of transport within the city are subways, buses and taxis. The subway system is well-developed with 22 lines, it’s very fast and cheap costing about 3-10 yuan per trip.
City Highlights
Great Wall of China
What list of must-sees in this part of China could not include the Great Wall?! It has been restored over the years and is such a vast wall lasting 21,000 km. There are several different places to visit and you can even camp overnight! Do some research to find the ideal part of the wall for you. With so much historic value behind this landmark it’s a must see for anyone within their lifetime!
Beijing Bikini
This is a well-known trend among Chinese men, involving rolled-up shirts exposing their stomachs when they are too hot. Many teachers find it amusing and others revolting, so we thought we’d let you know before you go! However, it has recently been banned in order to improve public hygiene amid coronavirus fears. Woohoo!
Forbidden City
An imperial palace complex that was originally ‘forbidden’ for anyone to enter other than the Emperor and his political associates in the 1400s. It is enclosed by 3.5km of citadel walls, with 90 palace buildings meaning it’s a long day out! Several of the buildings containing fabulous artwork which amazes visitors and acts as a time capsule for China’s past.
Sanlitun
An area of modern nightlife next to Beijing’s embassy district meaning tons of expats love a drink and a bite to eat here. Filled with posh restaurants, cocktail bars and up-beat clubs. It’s a great area to relax for the evening and bust some dance moves after a long day of work! Only a 7-minute metro ride from the forbidden city meaning you can go to two top attractions in one day.
Tiananmen Square
Another historical adventure that’s very close to the Forbidden City. To gain the full experience you can time it at sunrise or sunset to view the National Flag ceremony. Also, if you go during national holiday’s they decorate the flower beds giving an opportunity for a beautiful photo! It’s free to enter but there are more exclusive parts to view for as little as 20rmb.
Wangfujing
This hosts one of the busiest shopping streets near the city centre in Dongcheng District. It is 1 mile long accommodating 600,000 to 1 million people per day at its peak. The shops vary from high-end brands such as Gucci and Prada to traditional shops containing crafty items - meaning you can find anything here! It is easily accessible via Subway line 1.
Houhai Bar Street
A lovely area along the bank of Houhai filled with fun and friendly bars! Live performances occur and always attract big crowds. Behind the bars you can find a more relaxed environment holding ancient alleys and restaurants.
Surrounding Areas
Langfang
A lively little city hosting an award-winning acrobatic night show consisting of death-defying displays. Instead, if you are a football fan, you can visit Langfang Stadium which holds 30,000 people and watch Hebei China Fortune FC play a match. If you want a relaxing experience you can always visit the nature parks and view the beautiful scenery.
Tianjin
The Ancient Culture Street is a must-see in the city as it displays classical Chinese culture with all items being reasonably priced and friendly shop owners. The Tianjin Eye is one of the biggest Ferris Wheels in the world, and has a unique view spanning over the Haihe River.
Baoding
This city hosts scenic beauty in many areas such as the Lotus Flower Pond Resort, where you can view wildlife accompanied by classical bridges and huts. Stone Mountain Park’s nature is endless and provides for a great hiking trip and breath-taking photos to be taken.