Beijing, China — Things to Do
Sightseeing in Beijing
Previously in Beijing, the city's most interesting attractions related to the spectacular history of China's capital city. These wonderful examples of ancient innovations and well-preserved glimpses into millennia of Chinese history are still there, but the city is no longer only viewed as a virtual museum.
Now eye-catching structures and modern architectural wonders are among the city's most visited attractions including the National Stadium, better known as the Bird's Nest, and the National Grand Theater, known as the Eggshell. It is no surprise many believe the modern attractions detract from the city's old, but many enjoy the stark contrast.
Yet, of course, the iconic historic Beijing sites remain the most popular. The Great Wall of China is the city's most famous attraction, only rivalled by the well-preserved Forbidden City at the heart of Beijing. More recent history can be seen at the infamous Tiananmen Square or the Chairman Mao Mausoleum. A walk through some of the world's most ancient to most modern attractions makes Beijing eternally captivating.
Shopping in Beijing
Shopping in Beijing to find bargains and haggle for the best prices is an essential part of the experience of visiting the city.
Walking and bargaining in the countless markets in Xiu Shui Jie Shopping Mall or the Xiu Shui Market will no doubt build up an appetite, but luckily there is plenty of food at these stalls for shoppers to refuel. Popular buys include fake designer labels, clothing and bags. Bargaining is an essential skill and an expected part of the transaction, but remember to keep a smile.
The main shopping area is around Wangfujing Dajie, where a number of department stores can be found, including the Beijing Department Store. The Xidan area offers wonderful big department stores selling fixed-price goods including electronic equipment. The Hong Qiao Market is a popular indoor market in the south central area of Beijing where bargaining is expected. Here buyers can haggle for goods such as cheap no-name or fake brand electronics, sunglasses, batteries, watches and jewelry.
Panjiayuan Collectors Market is an outdoor market with a good array of arts and crafts from all over China, including popular Beijing souvenirs like jade bracelets, cloisonné and lacquerware, silk, calligraphy, porcelain, and vintage Cultural Revolution books and posters. Beijing Tea Street is the best place to find anything associated with tea, including tables, tea sets, and a wide variety of teas.
Liulichang in the south of Beijing is a great place for Chinese antiques. Buyers should be aware that authentic antiques over 100 years old display a red wax seal. An export license must be issued in order to take these out of the country.
Avoid shopping trips on evenings and weekends, as the crowds can be overwhelming. Shops in Beijing are open daily from 9am to 8pm and there is no sales tax.
Beijing Nightlife
Neon lights are a staple of Beijing nightlife, with a predictable swarm of DJ dance clubs and karaoke bars lighting up most corners of the downtown districts. This is encouraging as not too long ago there wasn't much nightlife in Beijing at all. The city is just beginning to create modern discos and chic bars more favored by foreigners. Beijing's nightlife still doesn't compare to cities like Hong Kong and Shanghai for pure debauchery, but its cultural offerings and diversity of entertainment are unrivalled.
Except for novelty fun, most hotel venues and their cookie cutter disco decorations and beats should be avoided. Some unique areas popular with expats are Hou Hai Bar Area, a picturesque lakeside nightlife hub, and Sanlitun Pub Street in the Embassy Area of Chaoyang District, an favorite for western music like rock, hip hop and jazz.
There still isn't too much crossover between western and Chinese clientèle but it can be interesting to soak in some Chinese karaoke and liquor at local haunts. Most venues stay open until the early morning, although most people in Beijing go to sleep before many of them open.
There are a host of Chinese art shows to enjoy if late night booze joints don't sound enticing. These include Chinese opera, dancing and theater most nights of the week. Many visitors enjoy seeing kung-fu demonstrations and acrobatic shows. The Laoshe Tea House and the Tianqiao (Overbridge) Area are great places to explore traditional Chinese performances.
A note of caution: it is advisable to research and plan your night out rather than leave matters to spontaneous choice as one might do in other cities. Be very cautious of allowing taxi drivers or helpful locals guiding you to an off-the-beaten track bar or club - these are often designed to fleece visitors of money.
Grab a copy of Timeout Beijing for updated event listings and gig guides.
Attractions for Kids
Steeped in a mystical and fascinating history, Beijing may not, at first glance, seem suitable for travel with children. But look past the ancient buildings and temples, and you'll find more than enough activities and attractions while on vacation with kids in Beijing.
The Summer Palace is a good place to start sightseeing with the kids. With magnificent gardens open to visitors, children will have plenty of space to run around. The Happy Valley Amusement Park never fails to entertain and thrill the whole family as moms can wander around the shopping center while the kids are at play. Milu Park ranks as one of the best places to enjoy a picnic outdoors and do a little milu deer spotting, while spectacular sealife awaits at Beijing Aquarium.
On rainy or very hot and humid days, take the kids to Le Cool, an indoor ice skating rink, or to one of the many indoor playgrounds around the city, such as Fundazzle. It's a great way to tire them out so you can either pop them in their stroller and carry on with your own sightseeing, or, amidst all the excitement of being in a new city, put them to bed.
