Beautiful Must-Sees in Beijing (Part One)

Beijing is a city in the People’s Republic of China. One question that attracts the attention of travellers is whether to call it Beijing or Peking. The truth is that both are correct. Beijing is the English adaptation of the official Latin form, while Peking corresponds to the official Hanyu pinyin transcription system.

Whether you decide to call it Beijing or Peking, in this article we want you to come with us to discover what you should see in this beautiful city.

It is one of the most populated cities in China, with around 21,710,000 inhabitants. It is also believed to have been inhabited since at least 1000 BC, giving it a great cultural and historical charge. There is so much to see in Beijing! Over 200 tourist attractions and 7 World Heritage sites! Want to join us on a tour of the 10 most important sites? Then read on!

Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is an iconic and important building in China, visited by millions of tourists every year. It dates back to 1420 and is one of the best sightseeing destinations in Beijing. It has also been a World Heritage Site since 1998. Without a doubt, this place brings together everything you could want to see in a city like Beijing.

It is a three-storey circular building with a blue roof and a beautiful marble base. To the north is the prayer hall for a good harvest, to the south is the circular altar and the imperial vault of heaven. In the past, it was visited by emperors who came to pray for a good harvest. But now you can visit it. So you should know that the Temple of Heaven is located to the south-east of the Forbidden City, in Tiantan Gongyuan Park.

We’re sure you’ll want to visit it so you don’t miss any of the details. Even better, it is connected to several subway and bus lines. So it will be very easy to get there. Want your prayers to reach heaven? Visit this temple!

The Forbidden City

Another must-see when in Beijing is the Forbidden City: a palace complex that houses the Palace Museum. It is a tourist attraction full of history and culture. When visiting this extraordinary place, you can walk through the vast courtyards that lead to the pavilions where the emperor’s official ceremonies were held.

It is the largest palace complex in the world, covering 72 hectares. It is also divided into two parts, the outer and inner courtyards. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1989. It is one of the most visited places in China! This is because it is considered to be one of the best works of Chinese architecture.

The Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is considered to be the most important imperial garden in China, which is why it is one of the places to see in Beijing. It occupies an area of about 300 hectares, with various buildings scattered around the whole area. But what will surely catch your attention is the Kunming Lake, an artificial lake that borders the palace.

This lake will allow you to relax and enjoy this magnificent place. You can walk along its shores and we assure you it will be a transformative experience. You can also take the opportunity to visit the gardens. It is not for nothing that it is called “The Garden of Relaxing Peace”. The opening hours of the Summer Palace vary according to the season, so make sure you plan ahead to enjoy this beautiful palace.

Tiananmen Square

Considered one of the most important squares in all of China, Tiananmen Square is the largest in the world. It measures 880 by 500 metres. It was built in 1949. But don’t be intimidated by its size or history! This square should be on your list of things to see in Beijing.

As you walk around, you will come across the Gate of Heavenly Peace, located on the north side of the square, which provides access to the Forbidden City. On the other hand, in the southern part, you can admire the Qianmen Tower, which houses the Beijing History Museum.

To the east and west are the National Museum of China and the Great Hall of the People (seat of government). Finally, in the centre is the 38-metre-tall Monument to the People’s Heroes. Tiananmen Square has sights from every angle. Do you dare to visit it?

What are your thoughts on the city so far? Let us know in the comments below. And if you want to know about more must-sees, come back to check the second part of our article.