5 Historical Landmarks to See in Beijing - For the history buffs!

Well, how many movies have referred to the Forbidden City? Wondered what it looked like? Then, when in Beijing make your way towards the ancient imperial palace. Located right at the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City has been serving as a residence to the emperors of China since the fifteenth century! Even if you're travelling during the winter season, don't you worry, you'll be rewarded with a heavenly sight of the palace covered in white blankets of snow. Besides, when booking for accommodation always look into centrally located hotels. There are many alternative family hotels in Beijing close to many tourist attractions. You can check out properties like Ascott Raffles City Beijing for a start.

The Tiantan park also referred to as the temple of heaven, used to be a place of religious significance where the Qing and Ming dynasty emperor used to come to pray. You need to at least keep aside an hour to fully explore the park. There is a fascinating green lawn which takes after a chessboard. The Hall of Prayers is perfect to head to, to relax and enjoy the aura of the place.

These tombs which serve as an important historical landmark is located at the foothills of the Tianshou Hill located in the Changping District. The tombs here are the final resting place for thirteen of China's emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Aside from the emperor, twenty-three empresses, thirty concubines and two princes are buried here. This is listed as a part of the heritage sites that are well known around the world to be one of the most preserved mausoleums.

The magnificence of the Great Wall of China is lost to no one. And when in Beijing, you have to visit one of the most beautiful wonders of the world. The series of brick and stone fortifications were constructed from east to the west on the borders of the country to defend it from invaders and other dangers. Although the construction began in the seventh century, the wall that we witness today was expanded drastically during the time of the Mings. There is no way you can consider your trip to Beijing complete, without having visited this beautiful stretch of wall. The views too are truly magnificent. Do not miss out on it for the world!

There are thousands and thousands of these hutongs in the old town in Beijing. But only a few made it in the popular list, and we call them the Eight Hutongs now. This actually used to be the infamous red-light area of the old town during the period of the Qing Dynasty and also the Chinese Republic. Today, this area isn't anything like it used to be. However, you can still find remnants of its past.