In addition to the world-renowned Great Wall, the city of Beijing boasts numerous other remarkable landmarks, some of which are seldom mentioned on the internet. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to many of the city’s most notable attractions, offering readers both general overviews and detailed information to enhance their understanding of Beijing’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
What are the tourist attractions in Beijing?
Our team has carefully selected the attractions in Beijing that are truly worth visiting, while excluding those that may not merit your time. The following table provides a clear overview of the city’s recommended sites, allowing you to quickly see which places are worth exploring.
| No. | Attraction Name | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Palace Museum (Forbidden City) | Imperial palace of Ming and Qing dynasties, a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| 2 | The Great Wall (Badaling, Mutianyu) | Famous ancient Chinese defensive architecture |
| 3 | Tiananmen Square | The largest city center square in the world |
| 4 | Summer Palace | Renowned imperial garden with beautiful lakes and landscapes |
| 5 | Temple of Heaven Park | Ancient site where emperors performed heaven worship ceremonies, featuring grand architecture |
| 6 | Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) Ruins | Former imperial garden ruins with rich historical background |
| 7 | Beihai Park | Historic imperial garden and popular public leisure area |
| 8 | Hutongs and Siheyuan | Traditional residential neighborhoods offering an authentic Old Beijing experience |
| 9 | Olympic Park | Includes modern landmarks such as the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube |
| 10 | National Centre for the Performing Arts | Architecturally unique modern arts venue |
Don’t rush; next, we will take a closer look at the key highlights and experiences that make these classic attractions truly worth your attention.
The Palace Museum (Forbidden City)
The Palace Museum in Beijing, also known as the Forbidden City, served as the starting point for the story depicted in the film The Last Emperor many years ago.
This film not only presents the story from Puyi’s perspective but also portrays the helplessness China faced during the internal and external crises of the Qing Dynasty. Like Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, it has become a symbol of China. Beyond its historical significance, the site also features some remarkable architectural designs that inspire awe.
For example, the drainage system of the Nine-Dragon Wall in the Forbidden City is ingeniously designed. If you visit the Forbidden City on a rainy day, you will witness this clever water drainage in action.
Of course, the uniqueness of the Forbidden City extends far beyond what has been mentioned. To fully appreciate its detailed attractions, one must visit Beijing in person. For now, we will keep some of the mystery intact as we move on to the practical application section.
Transportation and Ticket Prices for the Forbidden City
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | No.4, Jingshanqian Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing |
| Opening Hours | Daily 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:10 PM) |
| Ticket Price | Peak Season (April 1 – October 31): 60 RMB |
| Off-Season (November 1 – March 31): 40 RMB | |
| Additional fees apply for special exhibitions | |
| Ticket Purchase | It is recommended to book tickets in advance via the official website or authorized platforms (e.g., the Palace Museum WeChat account) |
| Subway Routes | Line 1: Get off at Tian’anmen East or Tian’anmen West Station, then walk about 10–15 minutes to the Meridian Gate (South Gate) |
| Line 2: Get off at Qianmen Station, then walk about 15–20 minutes to the Shenyang Gate (West Gate) |
It is worth mentioning that mobile technology is highly integrated into daily life in China, with most services requiring online reservations.
Since the Forbidden City does not support on-site ticket purchases, visitors are required to make reservations online in advance.
Reservation website: The Palace Museum (Forbidden City)
After entering the website, you will be guided on how to proceed. For assistance, please use the “Contact Us” section below.
Recommended Local Snacks Near the Forbidden City
Assuming you set out early in the morning to visit the Forbidden City, you’ll definitely need to find a place to eat by midday. So, what are some good food stalls and restaurants near the Forbidden City?
After verification, we found that the following eateries nearby have a good reputation.
| Restaurant / Location | Signature Dishes | Location Description | Recommendation Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siji Minfu Roast Duck | Peking Duck | Near Dongdan Station, about 15 minutes walk from the Forbidden City | Traditional flavor, crispy skin, tender meat—classic Peking duck |
| Bianyifang Roast Duck | Historic Roast Duck | About 2 km from the south gate of the Forbidden City, accessible by bus or subway | Long-established, authentic taste, elegant environment |
| Donglaishun (Wangfujing) | Lamb Hot Pot | Near Wangfujing, about 20 minutes walk from the Forbidden City | Traditional Beijing-style hot pot, perfect for warming up in winter |
| Old Beijing Zhajiangmian Shop | Zhajiangmian (fried sauce noodles), Douzhi (fermented mung bean juice), Jiaoqian (fried dough rings) | In the alleys east of the Forbidden City | Authentic Beijing flavors, affordable, great for a quick meal |
| Wangfujing Snack Street | Candied Hawthorn, Lu Dou Gun, Fried Liver, etc. | About 10-15 minutes walk from the east gate of the Forbidden City | Wide variety of Beijing snacks, great for experiencing local flavors |
We have also written an article about Beijing cuisine, where you can find photos and detailed information about these delicious foods.
Best Food in Beijing: Top Traditional Dishes You Must Try
Recommendation for Siji Minfu Roast Duck
Beijing roast duck is well-known to most people, and the Four Seasons Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant near the Forbidden City is especially popular in that area. Here is a signature dish of theirs:
The overall interior design of the restaurant features a traditional Chinese style.
What you should know is that the founder of this restaurant is originally from Anhui and moved to Beijing. Nowadays, Four Seasons Minfu also offers some Anhui specialty dishes. Without a doubt, it remains the best value for money in the area.
The Great Wall
The construction of the Great Wall began as early as the 7th century BC, although many people mistakenly believe it started during the Qin Dynasty. This is incorrect. The Great Wall is truly a remarkable marvel.
According to the latest survey conducted by China’s State Administration of Cultural Heritage in 2012, the total length of the Great Wall is approximately 21,196 kilometers. It was originally built to prevent enemy invasions.
Of course, you may also have seen a movie called The Great Wall.
The Great Wall consists of many sections, such as the Badaling Great Wall and the Huangyaguan Great Wall. I have previously written a detailed guide about visiting the Great Wall.
Ultimate Great Wall of China Trip Planner (2025 Edition)
If you are planning to go, this guide will be essential for you, as it explains everything you need to know and what to pay attention to.
Ticket Prices and Public Transportation to the Great Wall
Below is the ticket information and locations for different sections of the Great Wall. It’s important to understand that the Great Wall is a collective name for many separate sections, not just one single site. Each section has its own distinct location and address.
| Scenic Area | Address | Transportation Summary | Ticket Price (RMB) | Opening Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badaling Great Wall | Jundu Mountain, Gangu Village, Yanqing District, Beijing | – Take S2 train from Beijing North Station (~1 hr), 10 min walk from Badaling Station – Bus 877 from Deshengmen (~2 hrs) – Self-drive via G6 Expressway Yanqing exit | Adult: 40 RMB Discount: 20 RMB Children under 1.2m free | Mar 1–Nov 30: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM Dec 1–Feb end: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM | Well-developed facilities, ideal for first-time visitors |
| Mutianyu Great Wall | Mutianyu Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District, Beijing | – Bus 916 Express from Dongzhimen (~1.5 hrs) – Self-drive via Jingcheng Expressway Huairou exit; parking available | Adult: 45 RMB Discount: 25 RMB Cable car one way: 30 RMB, round trip ~60 RMB | Summer: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM Winter: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM | Cable car available; less crowded than Badaling |
| Simatai Great Wall | Simatai Town, Miyun District, Beijing | – Bus 919 from Dongzhimen to Miyun North Station, transfer to shuttle bus – Self-drive via Jingcheng Expressway Miyun exit | Adult: 40 RMB Discount: 20 RMB Night tour ticket separate | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (night tours vary) | Steep sections, great for adventure and photography |
| Huangyaguan Great Wall | Huangyaguan, Shanhaiguan District, Qinhuangdao, Hebei | – High-speed train from Beijing to Qinhuangdao (~2.5 hrs), then bus or taxi (~40 mins) – Self-drive via Jingha Expressway Qinhuangdao exit | Adult: 60 RMB (peak season) Discount: 30 RMB | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Coastal Great Wall with unique sea views |
| Juyongguan Great Wall | Juyongguan Town, Changping District, Beijing | – Bus 919 direct from central Beijing – Self-drive via Jingzang Expressway Changping exit | Adult: 40 RMB Discount: 20 RMB | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Strategically important pass, known as “First and Greatest Pass under Heaven” |
The reservation websites for each section of the Great Wall are different as well. Unfortunately, this iconic site also requires advance online ticket booking. The specific reservation information is as follows:
| Great Wall Section | Official Reservation Website | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Badaling Great Wall | https://ticket.badaling.cn | Also supports WeChat mini-program “Badaling Tickets” |
| Mutianyu Great Wall | https://en.mutianyugreatwall.com/reservation-center/tickets | English and Chinese supported |
| Jinshanling Great Wall | https://www.jslccg.com | Partial English support |
| Simatai Great Wall | Requires booking via Gubei Water Town official website | https://www.gubeiwater.com |
If you don’t want to spend time researching, we can help you purchase tickets on your behalf.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square is undeniably the political heart of Beijing. It not only symbolizes the solemnity and dignity of the nation but also carries the history and collective emotions of the Chinese people.
Originally built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the square took on its current form in the 1950s. Covering 440,000 square meters, it is one of the largest city-center squares in the world.
Surrounded by prominent landmarks such as the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, the Great Hall of the People, and the National Museum of China, it serves as a central site for important political ceremonies.
Almost every visitor to Beijing makes a point of witnessing the flag-raising ceremony here. Each morning, as the national anthem plays and the Five-Star Red Flag rises slowly, the atmosphere is solemn and deeply moving—an experience that stays with you for life.
Important Notes:
The flag-raising time varies daily depending on sunrise. Check the “Tiananmen Square Reservation Platform” for the latest schedule. Real-name reservations are required, and security checks are strict. Enter from the east side of the square. For the best photo angle, stand diagonally in front, aiming at the intersection line between the flagpole and the Tiananmen Gate Tower.
Access: Subway Line 1, get off at either “Tiananmen East” or “Tiananmen West” Station
Admission: Free, but reservation is required
Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, located in Beijing’s Haidian District, is one of the largest and best-preserved imperial gardens in China. Often hailed as the “Museum of Royal Gardens,” it offers not just scenic beauty, but a vivid reading of how imperial power and aesthetics intertwined.
Originally known as Qingyi Garden, it was built during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing dynasty. Later, it was burned down by Anglo-French forces during the Second Opium War in the 1860s. In the late 19th century, Empress Dowager Cixi famously diverted naval funds to rebuild it, renaming it the Summer Palace. It then served as a summer retreat and a place to handle state affairs.
Listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 2007, the palace covers an area of 290 hectares, with about three-quarters of it being water. Highlights include the Long Corridor, Tower of Buddhist Incense (Foxiang Pavilion), and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge—each showcasing the refined elegance and artistic taste of Chinese royal landscaping.
Recommended Route: Enter through the East Palace Gate, visit Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, stroll along the Long Corridor, climb the Tower of Buddhist Incense, then take a boat across Kunming Lake to the Seventeen-Arch Bridge area. The full tour takes approximately 2–3 hours on foot.
Transportation: Take Subway Line 4, get off at Beigongmen Station, Exit A
Admission: 60 RMB in peak season, 40 RMB in off-season; combo tickets for special areas require additional purchase
Temple of Heaven Park
If you’re interested in the concepts of “imperial power” and “cosmology,” then the Temple of Heaven offers the most vivid and tangible representation of ancient Chinese views of the universe. Through its architecture, rituals, and the symbolic design of circles and squares, it fully embodies the traditional Chinese cosmological beliefs.
Constructed in 1420 during the reign of Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty, the site was originally known as the “Temple of Heaven and Earth.” It wasn’t until the Jiajing era that the Temple of Heaven and the Temple of Earth were separated into two distinct sites. Today, the Temple of Heaven remains the world’s largest ancient ceremonial complex dedicated to heaven worship. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 for its architectural symbolism representing the ancient Chinese philosophy of “round heaven and square earth”, as well as the yin-yang and Five Elements (Wuxing) theories.
The most iconic structures include the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar.
Recommended Route: Enter from the East Gate, and walk north to south through the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, Imperial Vault of Heaven, and end at the Circular Mound Altar. At the center of the Mound, try speaking aloud—your voice will bounce back in a fascinating way due to the famous “echo effect.”
Metro: Line 5, Tiantan Dongmen Station (Temple of Heaven East Gate)
Admission: Park entry ¥15; Combo ticket including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests ¥35
The Old Summer Palace Ruins (Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park)
It’s not about “beauty”—it’s about remembrance. The Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) is a haunting witness to the destruction of a civilization. Amid its broken walls and ruins lingers the painful echo of an irreplaceable beauty that was completely plundered.
Located just west of Tsinghua University and Peking University, Yuanmingyuan was built over the reigns of Qing emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong. It was one of the most important imperial residences of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its exquisite Chinese-style gardens and unique Western-style architecture. Once hailed as the “Garden of All Gardens,” it was looted and burned down by British and French troops in 1860 during the Second Opium War.
Today, all that remains are ruins—fragments like the Western-style stone structures and the Grand Fountain (Dashuifa)—serving as solemn reminders for reflection and historical learning. The park now also features a VR digital exhibition hall, allowing visitors to experience a vivid recreation of the palace’s former splendor.
Recommended Visit: Enter through the South Gate, head directly to the Western Ruins, and walk clockwise through notable sites like Xieqiqu (Harmonious Wonder) and the Grand Fountain. If time permits, visit the digital exhibition for immersive restoration footage.
Metro: Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit B
Admission: Entry ticket ¥10; combo ticket (including special exhibition areas) ¥25
Beihai Park
Beihai Park, located in the heart of Beijing, is a historic garden that seamlessly blends imperial grandeur with the charm of local urban life. Visitors can go boating, take leisurely walks, and enjoy the traditional landscape architecture—all while experiencing both the solemn atmosphere of ancient royalty and the relaxed rhythm of modern city living.
It’s an ideal place to explore Beijing’s cultural heritage and unwind.
First built in 1166, Beihai Park was expanded and renovated throughout the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Its layout and features have been remarkably well preserved to this day.
The park’s most iconic landmark is the White Dagoba on Qionghua Island, located at the center of the lake. Climbing the island offers sweeping views of Beijing’s skyline.
Other historically significant spots include Yong’an Temple, Xiaoxitian (Little Western Paradise), and the famous Nine-Dragon Screen.
Recommended Visit: Enter through the South Gate, rent a boat to cross the lake to Qionghua Island, and enjoy a relaxing tour around the park.
The full visit takes about 2 hours, with spring and autumn being the best seasons to go.
Metro: Line 6 to Beihai North Station
Admission: ¥10 in peak season (combo ticket ¥20); ¥5 in off-season (combo ticket ¥15)
Hutongs and Siheyuan
Hutongs and siheyuan are the roots of Beijing’s culture: if you come to Beijing without visiting them, your trip will be incomplete. These narrow alleys and traditional courtyard homes bear witness to centuries of everyday life in the city and offer the most direct window into understanding “Old Beijing.”
The word “hutong” originates from the Mongolian term “hottog” during the Yuan dynasty. Siheyuan, a traditional courtyard residence style, dates back to the Western Zhou period and has flourished in Beijing for over 800 years. At one time, Beijing had more than 6,000 hutongs, many of which are now protected as historic cultural districts.
My top recommendation is an in-depth tour of the Shichahai area, where you can wander through Yandai Xiejie (Smokestack Alley) and Mao’er Hutong, entering siheyuan neighborhoods still inhabited by local residents. Some special courtyards require a small admission fee and offer cultural activities that can be booked via platforms like Dianping.
Admission: Free to roam the hutongs; cultural experience venues charge between ¥20 and ¥50. It’s best to make reservations through Dianping or Wenbotong. Exploring by bike or on foot is recommended for the best experience.
Transportation: Take Metro Line 6 to Nanluoguxiang Station, then walk into the hutong area.
Olympic Park
Located in northern Beijing, Olympic Park gained worldwide fame during the 2008 Beijing Olympics and has since become one of the iconic symbols of modern Beijing for visitors from around the globe.
The park’s most famous landmarks are the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These two structures have become new city landmarks and popular destinations for locals to relax, exercise, and enjoy family activities.
The best time to visit is at dusk, when the sunset’s warm glow blends beautifully with the gradually lit-up buildings. Strolling along the wide central axis, visitors can admire the spectacular night views of the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube illuminated by lights. Especially notable is the Bird’s Nest, whose architectural design draws inspiration from the shape of a traditional Chinese woven bird’s nest.
It was designed by the internationally renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, with every structural detail perfectly embodying a blend of aesthetic beauty and functionality.
The park itself is open to the public free of charge, but entry inside the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube requires separate tickets. Visitors can also enjoy various outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, and photography, fully experiencing the vibrant modern urban life of Beijing.
Transportation: Subway Line 8, Olympic Park Station
Admission: Standard ticket to Bird’s Nest 50 RMB; Skywalk ticket 80–110 RMB
Alternate access: Line 8, Forest Park South Gate Station (Exit C Southeast)
Recommended gear: Comfortable sports shoes, lightweight jacket, and sun protection
National Centre for the Performing Arts
The National Centre for the Performing Arts is more than just a theater—it resembles a “hemispherical art box” floating gracefully on the water. Its unique and elegant exterior stands out vividly among Beijing’s traditional architectural landscape.
Inside, the design perfectly combines modern stage technology with architectural aesthetics. The opera house, concert hall, and drama theater each embody refined and innovative design concepts, making the centre an ideal destination for both culture lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
Located on the west side of Chang’an Avenue and adjacent to Tiananmen Square, the National Centre for the Performing Arts was begun in 2001 and officially completed in 2007. It was designed through a collaboration between the renowned French architect Paul Andreu and the architectural team from Tsinghua University. The project was awarded the prestigious “Luban Prize,” the highest honor in Chinese architecture.
The best time to visit is at dusk or early evening. Walking through the underwater corridor leading to the domed main hall, visitors can enjoy the mesmerizing sight of shimmering water illuminated by soft lighting, creating a dreamlike visual effect.
Recommended experience: It’s advisable to purchase tickets for a performance in advance or join the approximately one-hour guided architectural tour, which offers in-depth insights into backstage areas and stage technology for a fuller visit.
Tips: Ticket prices vary depending on the performance; guided tour tickets cost about ¥50.
Transportation: Metro Line 1, get off at Tiananmen West Station, Exit C (Southwest).
In conclusion
If you explore all the attractions mentioned above during your visit to Beijing, your trip will be truly fulfilling and well-rounded. These sites collectively showcase the rich history, vibrant culture, and modern spirit of the city, giving you a deep and memorable experience of Beijing’s unique charm.
