Beijing Travel Guide - Introduction

Historically, the city is thousands of years old with civilisations known to have settled there as far back as the 4th century BC. In rising to its current status, Beijjing has been considered an integral part of the lands established by every major dynasty to have ruled the area. This long and rich history can be appreciated by visitors via a variety of fascinating buildings and places of interest.

On a sightseeing agenda, the Great Wall of China is possibly at the top of most people’s lists although the Forbidden City vies for the top and perhaps comes a close second. Also high up on the list are the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square and the Mausoleum of Chairman Mao. Also worthy of mention are the Lama Temple (Yonghegong), Ban Bi Dian Forest Park, Purple Bamboo Garden (Zizhuyuan Park), the Ming Tombs and the Five Pagoda Temple. Some 120 museums and 100 public gardens also greatly enrich the city’s attractiveness as a visitor destination.

Beijing can be reached by air from 54 cities in 39 different countries and so is exceedingly accessible. Trains from other Chinese destinations as well as connections with selected major international cities are also possible, increasing the accessibility. The city has a good public transport system but foreigners as a rule tend to take taxis to most places or pay for private tours in order to see the most popular sights.