Choose from 72 Fun Things to Do in Beijing
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 72 listings.
Beijing National Stadium
Niaochao, more commonly referred to as the Beijing National Stadium or the Bird’s Nest, was designed and constructed for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and has since become a major landmark in China’s capital. Chinese artist Ai Weiwei consulted on the Swiss-designed project, and the result cost $423 million to complete.
Since the Olympics ended, the stadium has served as a tourist attraction and a venue for both international and domestic sporting competitions, including the Supercoppa Italiana and the China Cup. The stadium is set to host the 2015 World Championships in Athletics as well.
Niaochao is most impressive from the outside, where it’s bird’s nest shape is apparent. Situated on the Beijing Olympic Green, Niaochao is free to enjoy from the outside, but you’ll have to pay a fee if you want to enter the stadium. The Water Cube, the second prominent structure from the 2008 Olympics, sits adjacent to Niaochao and is also worth a visit.
Since the Olympics ended, the stadium has served as a tourist attraction and a venue for both international and domestic sporting competitions, including the Supercoppa Italiana and the China Cup. The stadium is set to host the 2015 World Championships in Athletics as well.
Niaochao is most impressive from the outside, where it’s bird’s nest shape is apparent. Situated on the Beijing Olympic Green, Niaochao is free to enjoy from the outside, but you’ll have to pay a fee if you want to enter the stadium. The Water Cube, the second prominent structure from the 2008 Olympics, sits adjacent to Niaochao and is also worth a visit.
Address: Bird's Nest, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Mar - Oct: 9am - 6pm, Nov - Feb 9am - 5:30pm.
Admission: Tours: Adult: CNY 50, Senior: CNY 25. Event Prices Vary
From $ 16
Back Lakes (Hou Hai)
Beijing has modernized so rapidly that it’s hard to imagine what it must have been like in decades past. One neighborhood, however, has managed to hold on to its old-style hutong architecture: the Back Lakes (Hou Hai or Houhai). Named after the three Shichahai lakes in the area, the Back Lakes neighborhood is one of the last remaining places in Beijing where you can see traditional courtyard-style houses.
While wandering the hutongs allows visitors to see Beijing as it once was, the streets surrounding the lakes, particularly Hou Hai (the largest of the three) show you a modern, hip and multicultural side of Beijing. The banks are lined with shop, stalls, restaurants, bars and hookah dens catering to tourists, locals and the city’s sizable expatriate population alike, making it a fun and bustling place to browse for souvenirs. The breeze from the lake offers a respite from the heat, and boating activities are also available on the lake itself.
The best way to enjoy the Back Lakes area is to take a pedicab tour of the old hutong neighborhoods in the afternoon. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the lake before settling in to a table at a restaurant or bar balcony for dinner and drinks as you watch the world go by.
While wandering the hutongs allows visitors to see Beijing as it once was, the streets surrounding the lakes, particularly Hou Hai (the largest of the three) show you a modern, hip and multicultural side of Beijing. The banks are lined with shop, stalls, restaurants, bars and hookah dens catering to tourists, locals and the city’s sizable expatriate population alike, making it a fun and bustling place to browse for souvenirs. The breeze from the lake offers a respite from the heat, and boating activities are also available on the lake itself.
The best way to enjoy the Back Lakes area is to take a pedicab tour of the old hutong neighborhoods in the afternoon. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the lake before settling in to a table at a restaurant or bar balcony for dinner and drinks as you watch the world go by.
Practical Info
Houhai is located in the Xicheng District of central Beijing. The nearest subway station is Beihai North on Line 6, and there are a number of bus routes also serving the area.
Address: Houhai, Xicheng, Beijing, China
From $ 14
798 Art Zone
Located in northwest Beijing, 798 Art Zone occupies a decommissioned military factory from the 1950s that now houses an edgy artistic community. The Communist-era factories and warehouses of the complex have all been converted into galleries, studios, boutique shops and cafes whose modern and sometimes whimsical contents sit in stark contrast to the austere Bauhaus architecture.
Give yourself at least half a day to explore the 798 Art Zone. Start with the eclectic collection of sculptures, photographs and paintings at the Long March Space, one of the best collections in the area. Other notable galleries include the Chinese Contemporary with its politically minded collection, the 798 Photo Gallery and 798 Space, one of the largest galleries in the area.
Read up on art history at the well-stocked Time Zone 8 bookstore before stopping in at one of the cafes and restaurants in the district for lunch or a cup of coffee. If possible, time your visit to the 798 Art Festival in spring or the 798 Creative Art Festival in fall.
Give yourself at least half a day to explore the 798 Art Zone. Start with the eclectic collection of sculptures, photographs and paintings at the Long March Space, one of the best collections in the area. Other notable galleries include the Chinese Contemporary with its politically minded collection, the 798 Photo Gallery and 798 Space, one of the largest galleries in the area.
Read up on art history at the well-stocked Time Zone 8 bookstore before stopping in at one of the cafes and restaurants in the district for lunch or a cup of coffee. If possible, time your visit to the 798 Art Festival in spring or the 798 Creative Art Festival in fall.
Address: 798 Art Zone, No.4 Jiuxianqiao Rd., Chaoyang, Beijing, China
Hours: Open Daily: 10am - 5pm.
From $ 27
Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tiananmen Tower)
The Gate of Heavenly Peace, or Tiananmen Tower, is featured on the officially emblem of the People's Republic of China. Situated on the northern edge of Tiananmen Square, it served as the principal entry to the Imperial Palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
The Gate of Heavenly Peace is also the name of a documentary film about the protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989. The protests sparked the largest nonviolent political protest in the country’s history.
The structure itself is made up of a tower situated on top of a platform. It’s one of the most imposing monumental gates in the world, notable for its sheer size and ornate features, including its columns. Stone lions and white marble bridges guard the entrance to the tower and viewing stands flank both sides, which are opened up for visitors on the first day of each month.
Practical Info
To reach the Gate of Heavenly Peace, alight at Tiananmen East station or Tiananmen West and walk south. Alternatively alight at Qianmen and head north. The tower is open to visitors from 8:30am until 5pm and there is a small entrance fee. Visitors wishing to use the viewing stands need to book via a local travel agent in advance.
Address: Tiananmen, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Daily 8:30am-5pm
Admission: Adult CNY 15, student & seniors 70+ CNY 5
From $ 24
Dingling Underground Palace
The Dingling Underground Palace was the first of the 13 Ming royal tombs to be officially opened to the public. Located on the southern slopes of Tianshou Mountain in Changping County, Beijing, Dingling is the tomb of Emperor Zhu Yijun and his two empresses, Xiaoduan and Xiaojing. The ancient palace is accessed via a 40-meter underground tunnel.
Zhu Yijun was the thirteenth emperor and occupier of the throne for 48 years, the longest of all the Ming Dynasty emperors. Built over six years between 1584 and 1590, the tomb is gigantic and extravagant, with five halls connected by giant marble archways, and floors paved with gilded bricks. The central hall is home to three imperial thrones, while the rear hall is the most important and where the three coffins of the emperor and his empresses can be found. These are surrounded by red-lacquer chests filled with precious items.
There is also a museum at the Dingling Underground Palace, where 3000 objects excavated from the site are displayed. These artifacts include royal robes, the emperor's crown and the empresses' tiaras, plus a number of other jewels and ceramic items.
Practical Info
To reach the Dingling Underground Palace from Beijing, take Subway Line 2 to Jishuitan Station and walk to Deshengmen Bus Station. Take the 872 bus from here to the Ming Tombs.
Address: Changchi Road, Beijing, Changping District 102213, China
Hours: 8:30am-6pm
Admission: April-October: CNY 65 / November-March: CNY 45
From $ 39
Cuandixia Village
Travel back in time on a visit to the historic village of Cuandixia, which dates back to the famed Ming Dynasty. More than 500 well-preserved homes that date back thousands of years dot the landscape of this popular destination. Visitors looking to experience a taste of early life can opt to stay in one of these historic homes, since many of them now serve as travel lodges.
After wandering the cobblestone streets of the historic village, which include challenging outdoor staircases and quiet back alleys—head to the hillside where a network of scenic trails offers up epic views of Cuandixia Village that’s perfect for hikers looking to spend a day outdoors.
Practical Info
The village is located about 90 kilometers northwest of Central Beijing in the Jingxi Mountains. Visitors traveling by private car can access Cuandixia using National Road 109, or take bus 929 from Pingguoyuan subway station.
Address: Cuandixia, China
From $ 65
Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan)
Part of the Forbidden City during the Qing Dynasty, this 10th-century park is one of China’s oldest, largest, and most important ancient imperial gardens. Situated in the center of Beijing, the 171-acre (69-hectare) garden features a temple, bell and drum towers, a white pagoda, pavilions, lakes, and the intricate Nine-Dragon Wall.
The Basics
Visiting Beihai Park is akin to taking a crash course in Imperial Chinese history and culture, and with its central location in the city’s Xicheng District, it’s easy to visit. Though the park is no longer part of the Imperial City, a boat ride here is often included in tours of the Palace Museum. Combine your visit to the park with a tour of the Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple, or Jingshan Park, or capture a memorable photo by donning a traditional Hanfu costume during a guided walk through the gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Beihai Park is a must-visit for history buffs, gardeners, and families.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Nearly all of Beihai Park is wheelchair accessible, with the exception of the hill.
- Give yourself about two hours to tour the park’s gardens and attractions.
How to Get There
Beihai Park is located next to the Forbidden City and is easily accessible by public transportation. Take one of several public buses to Beihai or Beihai Beimen, or take subway Line 6 to Beihai Bei and leave through Exit B.
When to Get There
The park is open daily throughout the year, with slightly shorter hours during the winter (November to March). Plan to visit on a weekday morning, when the gardens and attractions are less crowded, and avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays.
The White Dagoba
One of the park’s many unique features is a Tibetan dagoba, or shrine, built in 1651 by the first emperor of the Qing Dynasty to demonstrate a desire for unification among China’s many ethnic groups. The shrine has since been twice destroyed and rebuilt. Perched atop the highest point in the park, it offers some of the best panoramic views of the surroundings.
Address: Northwest of the Forbidden City, Beijing, China
From $ 16
Beijing Aquarium (Beijing Haiyangguan)
Situated within the Beijing Zoo, the Beijing Aquarium (Beijing Haiyangguan) is the largest inland aquarium in China and home to an impressive range of aquatic animals. The complex houses an Amazon rainforest pavilion where you can see live piranha and 100 other species of fish, a coral reef, a shark aquarium and a few marine mammal areas complete with sea lion and dolphin shows daily.
The 39-yard-long (36-meter) touch pool contains a variety of urchins and starfish, and 32 other tanks throughout the aquarium house sharks, sea turtles, jelly fish and other colorful sea creatures.
You can purchase tickets for the Beijing Aquarium at the zoo’s ticket counter. If you don’t mind missing the dolphin show, use that time to explore the museum when some 3,000 other visitors are crowded into the stadium.
The 39-yard-long (36-meter) touch pool contains a variety of urchins and starfish, and 32 other tanks throughout the aquarium house sharks, sea turtles, jelly fish and other colorful sea creatures.
You can purchase tickets for the Beijing Aquarium at the zoo’s ticket counter. If you don’t mind missing the dolphin show, use that time to explore the museum when some 3,000 other visitors are crowded into the stadium.
Address: Beijing Aquarium, Haidian, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Apr-Oct 9am - 5:30pm (last ticket at 5pm), Nov-Mar 10am - 4:30pm (last ticket at 4pm) .
Admission: Adult: CNT 130, Childen (1.2 meters/3.9 ft): Free. Aquarium Admission for Zoo and Panda Hall.
From $ 68
Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (Maozhuxi Jiniantang)
The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall houses the remains of one of China’s most influential men, Mao Zedong, who was chairman of the Communist Party from its inception in 1943 until his death in 1973. Located to the east of Tiananmen Square near the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is an important part of Beijing’s must-see tourist attractions.
The building itself is grandiose and imposing, featuring 44 granite posts and a yellow-glazed, double-eave roof. Inside, the body of the chairman lies draped in a Communist flag within a crystal cabinet, which is flanked by guards who keep the crowds moving. Security here is tight and bags and cameras will need to be dropped off to the east of the building before entry.
Practical Info
To Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is open from 7:30am until 1pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Guests should have a few spare Yen for baggage and camera storage and remember to take their passports.
Address: Tiananmen, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Tue-Sun 7:30am-1pm
From $ 29
Forbidden City (Imperial Palace)
The Forbidden City, or Imperial Palace, is the world’s largest palace complex, with more than 800 buildings and some 8,000 rooms set in the heart of Beijing. Deemed off-limits to visitors for some five centuries, today this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the city’s most popular attractions.
The Basics
With so much to see at this Beijing landmark—everything from the living quarters of emperors to ceremonial rooms and galleries lined with Imperial artifacts—many visitors opt to visit with a guide who can navigate the vast complex from the Ming and Qing dynasties and point out its most interesting features. Those short on time in the Chinese capital can opt for a day tour that combines a Forbidden City visit with time at other Beijing attractions, such as Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and the Great Wall. As well, number of gardens, museums, pagodas, and pavilions dot the area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Choose between a standard entrance ticket and a city tour that includes access to the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace.
- For a more personal experience of the Forbidden City and other Beijing highlights, choose a private tour.
- As many as 80,000 people visit the Forbidden City daily, so it’s best to book ahead or book a tour that includes skip-the-line access.
- The Forbidden City offers little shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water if visiting on a warm day.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking.
How to Get There
Arriving by public transport or walking is preferred over taxi, as taxis are not allowed to stop nearby. Take the subway Line 1 to Tiananmen West or Tiananmen East, or catch one of the many buses going to Gugong.
When to Get There
To avoid crowds at this popular Beijing attraction, it’s best to visit first thing in the morning when the ticket office opens. Avoid weekends and Chinese national holidays.
Best View of the Forbidden City
Before or after touring the Forbidden City, it’s nice to get a sense of its size by seeing it from above. Jingshan Park, located just across from the palace’s north gate, is home to the highest point in Beijing and affords the best panoramic, bird’s-eye view of the Forbidden City.
Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Beijing, Northern China 100009, China
Hours: Apr - Oct: 8:30am - 5pm, Nov - March: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Admission: ¥40–60
From $ 9
Donghuamen Night Market
Follow the sizzle of wok frying and the shouts of vendors to this quintessential after-dark hotspot in Beijing. The pedestrianized Donghuamen Night Market teems with locals and tourists who come for the adventurous street food, including skewers of scorpion, snake, starfish, or lamb testicles (as well as tamer options).
The Basics
Chinese and international visitors alike flock to Donghuamen Night Market for one reason: to eat. Many of the Chinese street food offerings come skewered and fried, making them easy to eat as you wander the length of Wangfujing Street. Those with an adventurous appetite will have plenty to choose from, but even more timid eaters can opt for Chinese stir-fried noodles, skewers of fresh fruit (sometimes dipped in liquid sugar), or a custard bun.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This night market is a must-visit for foodies.
- Bring some cash in small denominations so you can sample from multiple vendors.
- While labeled as a night market, Donghuamen has some food vendors that operate throughout the day.
How to Get There
Donghuamen Night Market is located north of Donganmen Street in Beijing’s Dongcheng District. Several public bus routes stop nearby, or you can take the subway to the Wanfujing stop.
When to Get There
While some vendors serve food earlier in the day, the bulk of the food stalls set up shop between 6pm and 9pm daily.
Other Snack Streets in Beijing
No matter the hour, there’s always something to eat in Beijing. While Donghuamen is the most famous of the city’s snack streets, other options include the 24-hour restaurants of Guijie Street (known for spicy lobster), Guanganmen Snack Street (known for Sichuan specialities), and Niu Jie Muslim Snack Street (known for ethnic minority cuisine).
Address: Wangfujing Street, Beijing, China
Admission: Free
From $ 14
CCTV Headquarters
The China Central Television (or CCTV) Headquarters is situated within an unusually-shaped skyscraper in Beijing’s central business district. This seemingly gravity-defying structure was designed by the Dutch architect, Rem Koolhaas, and is made up of two leaning towers joined at the top and bottom, creating an irregular grid with an open center. The building’s distinct shaped has earned it the nickname, ‘Big Underpants’ among Beijing locals.
While visitors are not allowed access to the CCTV Headquarters, the outside of the building is an attraction in itself. Security remains tight, particularly after fireworks during the Chinese New Year festivities of 2009 caused a fire in the Television Cultural Center, which sits adjacent to the main building.
Practical Info
The CCTV Headquarters are located at 32 Dongsanhuan Middle Road in Beijing’s CBD. The nearest subway station is Jintaixizhao.
Address: 32 E 3rd Ring Rd Middle, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
From $ 36
Beijing Capital Museum
The Beijing Capital Museum, opened in 1981 and moved to its current location in 2006, houses a sizable collection of imperial Chinese art and artifacts, as well as Buddhist relics from several Asian countries. Five aboveground and two basement floors house more than 200,000 specimens, including over 5,000 pieces in the main exhibition hall alone. You’ll find bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, old coins, jade sculptures, Buddhist statues and textiles, with the oldest pieces dating back to the New Stone Age.
Be sure to visit the second floor History and Culture of Beijing gallery that traces the history of the city from its first primitive residents to a modern capital. Learn more about the culture in Old Beijing in the fifth floor Folk Customs of Old Beijing exhibit. The jade exhibit, also on the fifth floor, contains nearly 200 intricately carved jade pieces with magnifying glasses to allow you to see the detail.
Be sure to visit the second floor History and Culture of Beijing gallery that traces the history of the city from its first primitive residents to a modern capital. Learn more about the culture in Old Beijing in the fifth floor Folk Customs of Old Beijing exhibit. The jade exhibit, also on the fifth floor, contains nearly 200 intricately carved jade pieces with magnifying glasses to allow you to see the detail.
Address: No. 16 Fuxingmen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Tue-Sun: 9am - 5pm (No entry after 4pm); Closed Mondays (Except certain holidays).
Admission: Free tickets with Online reservation.
From $ 37
Confucius Temple
The Confucius Temple, located in the heart of Qufu city, is the oldest and largest temple of its kind within China. Along with the Cemetery of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion, the temple forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site collectively known as San Kong (meaning ‘The Three Confucian Sites’).
Built in 479 BC, shortly after Confucius’ death, the temple features an impressive 466 halls, pavilions, and other rooms that are surprisingly still intact. Over the years, alterations and expansions on the temple building have transformed it into a sprawling complex with nine rows of courtyards leading up to a statue of Confucius before the temple entrance.
The Great Accomplishment Hall forms the main basis of the building, which features another statue of Confucius and a stone inscription of the Ming Dynasty, with various images depicting the story of Confucius.
Practical Info
The Confucius Temple and the other Confucius sites are situated in the city of Qufu in the southwest of Shandong Province. The Confucius Temple and the Kong Family Mansion are situated in one area, with the cemetery just a short taxi ride away.
Address: Banbi St, Qufu, Jining, Shandong, China, China
From $ 73
Gong Wang Fu
Gong Wang Fu, or Prince Gong’s Mansion, or Prince Kung's Mansion, was a Qing Dynasty imperial residence that has since been converted into an excellent museum. Built in 1777, the mansion belonged to several members of the imperial family over the years, but it got its current name from the sixth son of the Guangxu emperor, Prince Gong.
Gong Wang Fu is one of the best preserved imperial mansions in Beijing, and about half of it is open to the public. Of particular interest are the 7-acre (28,000-square-meter) traditional Chinese ornamental gardens, filled with pavilions, ponds and winding paths. A stage in the middle of the garden hosts Beijing opera and orchestral performances throughout the day.
For anyone interested in Qing architecture, a stop at Gong Wang Fu is a necessity. Since it’s a wildly popular attraction for domestic tourists, try to plan your visit first thing in the morning when the ticket office opens so you’ll have a chance to enjoy the gardens in peace before the buses pull up.
Gong Wang Fu is one of the best preserved imperial mansions in Beijing, and about half of it is open to the public. Of particular interest are the 7-acre (28,000-square-meter) traditional Chinese ornamental gardens, filled with pavilions, ponds and winding paths. A stage in the middle of the garden hosts Beijing opera and orchestral performances throughout the day.
For anyone interested in Qing architecture, a stop at Gong Wang Fu is a necessity. Since it’s a wildly popular attraction for domestic tourists, try to plan your visit first thing in the morning when the ticket office opens so you’ll have a chance to enjoy the gardens in peace before the buses pull up.
Address: No. 17 Qianhai West St, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: According to Website: Summer ('Busy' Season): 7:30am - 4:30pm. Winter ('Slack' Season) 8am - 4pm.
Admission: Adult: CNY 40, Small Children Free. Through Ticket: CNY 70
From $ 55
Beijing Bullet Train
China is home to the world’s largest network of high-speed rails, which connects Beijing with other notable destinations in the country. Quiet, fast, and efficient, bullet trains reach a top speed of 220 miles (354 kilometers) per hour. The longest route covers more than 1,200 miles (2,000 kilometers) from Beijing south to Guangzhou.
The Basics
Riding the high-speed railway from Beijing allows you to see Chinese countryside rarely glimpsed by visitors who opt to fly. What was once a minimum 9-hour trip between Beijing and Shanghai now takes just over five hours on the bullet train. The 5.5-hour train ride to Xian from Beijing is more economical than flying and just as fast once you factor in check-in and security lines. Many multi-day tours from Beijing to destinations such as Shandong, Shanghai, Pingyao, and Datong include at least one journey by bullet train.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The bullet train is a must for those who like to see some scenery while they travel.
- Confirm which station your train is departing from, as Beijing has more than one railway station.
- Choose business-class, first-class, or second-class seats.
- Most bullet trains offer electrical sockets and Wi-Fi.
- Most high-speed trains in China and the train stations where they stop are wheelchair accessible, including elevators to platform level.
How to Get There
Beijing bullet trains typically depart from Beijing South Railway Station. The easiest way to get there is to take Line 4 of the subway. There’s also an airport shuttle that connects Beijing Capital International Airport to the train station.
When to Get There
Bullet trains depart Beijing several times throughout the day to cities including Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, Kunming, and Chengdu. It’s a good idea to book ahead of time, particularly on weekends and Chinese national holidays, to ensure you get the departure you want.
Rail Line by the Numbers
China’s high-speed train network connects more than 200 cities in 32 of China’s 34 provinces. Tracks cover some 15,500 miles (25,000 kilometers), accounting for two-thirds of the world’s high-speed train tracks. The network is expected to reach 23,600 miles (38,000 kilometers) by 2025, linking all Chinese cities with a population over 500,000, including Hong Kong.
Address: Beijinh Railway, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Admission: Prices vary per train
From $ 474
Cemetery of Confucius
The Cemetery of Confucius contains the tomb erected in memory of Confucius, along with the remains of more than 100,000 of his descendants. Situated just north of the sage’s birthplace of Qufu in Shandong Province, the cemetery sits around two kilometers from the Confucius Temple and the Kong Family Mansion, which together make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The oldest graves at the cemetery date back to the Zhou Dynasty. Confucius’ tomb has gone through a few changes over the years, with the present-day tomb being in the form of a cone-shaped hill.
Practical Info
The Cemetery of Confucius and the other Confucius sites are situated in the city of Qufu in the southwest of Shandong Province. The Cemetery of Confucius is a short taxi ride from the other sites.
Address: Lindao Rd, Qufu, Jining, Shandong, China, China
From $ 73
Antiquarium of the Palace Museum
Inside the walls of the Forbidden City complex—a vast museum in its own right—sits the Antiquarium of the Palace Museum. This collection is divided into galleries based on art form and features artifacts such as including paintings, clocks, pottery, furniture, and figures made of jade and bronze, some dating back to the days when Qing emperors roamed the halls and gardens of the Forbidden City. A look at the possessions of these Chinese emperors is a great way to get an idea of their enormous wealth and status.
Among the many notable artifacts is the Nine Dragon Screen, a colorful glazed brick wall—one of three of similar styles in China (the other two are in Beihai Park and Datong). Other exhibits worth a visit are the Treasure Gallery (inside the Palace of Tranquil Longevity) and the Clock Exhibition Hall (inside the Hall for Ancestry Worship).
Practical Info
The Antiquarium of the Palace Museum is located along the eastern side of the Forbidden City. The galleries are housed in the buildings to the east and west of the Meridian Gate entrance. Additional fees may apply for some exhibits.
Did You Know? Many of the ornate clocks on display in the Antiquarium were actually made in Great Britain.
Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Beijing, Northern China 100009, China
Hours: 8:30am–5pm
Admission: 10 RMB
From $ 69
Dongyue Temple
Founded in 1317, Dongyue Temple is dedicated to Tai Shan, one of the five great mountains of Taoism. Still an active temple, it’s one of the largest Taoist temples in north China at 11.7 acres (4.7 hectares). It’s also one of Beijing’s more unusual temples, with 76 small rooms representing the “departments” of the Taoist underworld.
The Basics
The temple features three main halls and courtyards, plus more than 350 rooms. In addition to numerous ancient carved stone statues of Taoist deities and figures, there are nearly 100 inscribed stone tablets in the main courtyard. What makes the temple stand out most, however, are the 76 rooms representing the “departments” of the afterlife, as well as the various figures and displays that accompany them. There’s also a Folk Museum, which features more than 1,600 artifacts from all over China, and numerous exhibits on ancient and folk traditions.
Dongyue can be explored on its own, or you can see it on a tour that visits multiple Taoist temples. Other tours include it on along with stops at Buddhist and Confucian temples for a broader picture of Chinese culture.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is an active temple and visitors should be respectful of worshippers.
- Admission is free during national holidays.
- There are some macabre displays, which may not be appropriate for young kids.
- Although the temple grounds appear small, there’s a lot to see. Plan on at least 90 minutes, especially if you plan to visit the Folk Museum as well.
How to Get There
The temple is located in the Chaoyang District. By subway, take Line 6 and get off at Dongdaqiao Station (Exit A) and walk east, or Line 2 and get off at Chaoyangmen Station (Exit A) and walk east. Or take the 75, 101, 109, 139, or 615 bus and get off at Shenlu Jie Station.
When to Get There
The temple is at its most vibrant (and crowded) during holidays like the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, when a big temple fair and other activities are held.
Departments of Dongyue
The 76 Taoist departments cover a wide range of topics, ranging from the Department of Punishment to the Department for Accumulating Wealth to more esoteric departments like the Department of Flying Birds. Plaster statues depict each department’s topic, and there are donation boxes where worshippers—in appeals to departments for retribution, absolution, or good fortune—can leave red envelopes containing cash, burn incense, or hang a fortune card.
Address: China
From $ 70
Drum and Bell Tower
Back when Beijing consisted of single-story courtyard houses organized into hutongs, the Drum and Bell Towers in central Beijing dominated the landscape. While both structures have been rebuilt, they both date back hundreds of years.
The Drum Tower, built in 1272 during the Yuan Dynasty, originally housed 25 drums; today, only one remains. The Bell Tower was added in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, and together, the two structures were used as a method of official timekeeping until 1924, when the last Emperor was forced out of the Imperial Palace (Forbidden City).
While you’re touring Beijing’s Imperial sites, keep you ears open and you might hear the drum performances staged daily, even if you’re not at the towers. It’s also possible to climb into both towers. After ascending the steep staircases, you’ll be rewarded with excellent views over the surrounding hutongs.
The Drum Tower, built in 1272 during the Yuan Dynasty, originally housed 25 drums; today, only one remains. The Bell Tower was added in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, and together, the two structures were used as a method of official timekeeping until 1924, when the last Emperor was forced out of the Imperial Palace (Forbidden City).
While you’re touring Beijing’s Imperial sites, keep you ears open and you might hear the drum performances staged daily, even if you’re not at the towers. It’s also possible to climb into both towers. After ascending the steep staircases, you’ll be rewarded with excellent views over the surrounding hutongs.
Address: Di'anmen Outer Street, Xicheng, Beijing, China
From $ 15