Fun things to do in Bejing

No trip to Beijing or indeed China would be complete without a tour of its most iconic cultural highlights. Occupying pride of place in the heart of the city a day spent exploring the scenic confines of the Forbidden City are a must-have experience for first time visitors. Littered with courtyard the venue is synonymous with Imperial China. The next stopover is the Summer Palace where a boat cruise on Kunming Lake is an absolute must. The Temple of Heaven complete the three main imperial sights in the city where the renowned religious institutions plays hosts to traditional folk items such as fan dances.

Known as one of the most eco-friendly ways to get around and explore the hidden treasures that lie within Beijing city limits a biking tour of Beijing is another favorite activity among seasoned visitors. Cycle China is the prime guided tour operator for biking fanatics in search of a different perspective of the global metropolis. Travellers based in a Beijing service apartment complex such as the Ascott Raffles City Beijing can book a biking tour of the city through the apart hotel.

Renowned as one of Beijing's best kept secrets the Panjiayuan antiques market is one of the best venues in the capital to browse and purchase exquisite Chinese antiques at unbelievable prices. Whether it's calligraphy, books, Buddha sculptures, bed heads or examples of Red Art this one-stop Mecca for antiques stocks them all. Visitors can also dig in to sandwiches and coffee while perusing this colorful local marketplace.

Featuring elaborate costumes, dramatic make up and songs sung in high pitched tones the Beijing opera is a cultural institution that is revered in the global performance art sphere. With elements of awe-inspiring acrobatic feats thrown in for good measure this one of a kind theatrical experience one is unlikely to forget for a long time after.

As the portion of the Great Wall of China that is located closest to Beijing, Badaling offers those who visit the Chinese capital a chance to trek part of the only world wonder which is visible from the moon. As China's most famous attraction and an engineering marvel for the ages a tour of this historic point of interest on foot is a must-have experience for first time visitors.

Perfect for weary travellers exhausted by hiking, eating and shopping their way through Beijing a traditional Thai massage is the best way to revitalize both body and spirit. Littered with TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) spas, clinics and massage centres Beijing travellers will have a plethora of options on offer when it comes to planning a traditional Chinese spa day.

Open to visitors from 7am to 8 in the evening Jingshan Park is a picturesque public space which affords the best views of the Forbidden City from its vaulted vantage point. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty this sprawling parkland with a hill was originally built to shade the Forbidden City from cold northern breezes. A climb up to its highest point is a must as the views from atop the scenic hill are simply spectacular.