Joanna James
A cutting-edge imperial megalopolis offering enriching glimpses into history and tradition while stunning visitors with its futuristic glamour, Beijing is full of irresistible contrasts. Here's all you simply cannot leave without experiencing in China's eclectic multi-faceted Capital.
If you are inspired by ancient grandeur seamlessly harmonising with sweeping nature, the Great Wall adorning the northern mountains of Beijing isn't the only marvel of culture and landscape that the city has to offer. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hosting China's largest and most pristine imperial garden, the Summer Palace is straight out of an oriental fantasy, its very beams decorated with painted tales. Despite being the seat of dynastic power plays and imperial dramas, the halls, bridges, gardens, and pools of the artistic structure convey a sense of tranquil elegance among endless fascinations, such as the quaint riverside shops for the emperor's concubines, the exquisitely detailed Marble Boat, and iconic 17-holed Bridge gracing the Kunming Lake.
To get well and truly immersed in the authentic sensations of Beijing, grab your wallet and most walkable shoes and head out for a ramble through the vibrant and stimulating maze that is China's most happening vintage-themed market. Featuring over antique 3000 antique dealers of every calibre, selling a diversity of collectables and curios from ivory crafts, bamboo carvings, and calligraphy brushes to ancient heirlooms, lacquered tea services, and all manner of jade and jewel ornamentations, everything your will purchase comes with a rich story that magnifies its value as a souvenir.
If you're up for a brisk walk after all the decadent street food and gourmet dumpling trials, Beijing's Hutongs are an idyllic blend of old-world charm and modern audacity with odes to nature that makes for a delightful ramble. From the high-end boutiques, quaint thrift shops, and picturesque cafés of Nanluoguxiang to the courtyards, reading nooks, and patisseries of Wudaoying Hutong, the modern amenities innovatively packaged in repurposed traditional neighbourhoods are an alluring contrast for locals and tourists alike. If you're looking for top-notch Beijing short-term rentals proffering prime access to the Capital's postcard-perfect attractions, venture no further than Citadines Ritan Beijing.
As thrilling as its name, this portal to a past of proud dynasties and vaulted mysteries is now free for all to explore after having barred laymen out for five centuries. You don't have to be a history buff to appreciate the majestic Palace complex of 980 distinctive structures, also home to a world-renowned museum featuring more than one million relics and works of art.
A dreamy enclave of ancient Chinese dwellings nestled beneath the Simatai portion of the Great Wall, this village of glistening waterways and mountain scenery with its nature-kissed courtyards, ethereal lights, and pastel hues is well worth going off the beaten path. From Great Wall night tours to rejuvenating dips in mineral springs, this village offers an unsurpassed glimpse into a more tranquil and exhilarating facet of Beijing.
After all the exploring due in this entertaining city, refuel at this delectable warren of stalls and eateries hawking delicacies from every corner of China, from deep-fried potato spirals and candied hawthorns to the Empress Dowager's favourite golden pea cake.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
