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TOP 10 HIGHLIGHTS OF BEIJING
Like a giant dragon snaking its way 4000 miles across China’s northern borders, the Great Wall stands today as a bastion of culture in the hearts and minds of the Chinese people. Constructed in 220 BC, this sprawling defense system was originally built to protect against northern invaders, but stands today as one of the world’s greatest wonders. As you climb its ancient steps, pause to admire sweeping views of China’s ever-changing landscapes.
In the center of Beijing lies the Forbidden City, one of the most dazzling architectural masterpieces in the world. This sprawling complex contains more than 9,000 bays of rooms which were off limit to the public for over 500 years. Constructed in the 15th century as a replica of the Purple Palace in Heaven, the Forbidden City contains a staggering amount of ancient and rare artifacts in the on-site Palace Museum.
.Biggest Plaza in the world (Tian An Men Square)
A visit to Beijing would not be complete without visiting the world-famous and historic Tiananmen Square, or “Gate of Heavenly Peace”. Located in the heart of Beijing, Tiananmen Square was once the main gate to the Imperial Palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today it is home to the Monument to the People’s Heroes, Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, National Museum of China, and the Great Hall of the People. As the world’s largest public square, it covers a total area of 440 square meters and can hold up to one million people at a time
Meditate on the mystical Temple of Heaven where heaven and earth connect, and admire the architectural wonder inspired by ancient Chinese astrology. Also a World Cultural Heritage site, the Temple of Heaven was frequented by emperors for annual ceremonies of prayer. The architecture of the temple symbolizes the harmonious relationship between heaven and earth and is widely regarded as the noblest example of religious architecture in all of China.
Once used as a summer residence for emperors, the Summer Palace is the largest park on the outskirts of Beijing. It is known for its archetypal Chinese landscaping and marvelous vistas of elaborate bridges and pagodas, which overlook the sparkling Kunming Lake. This imperial garden was a welcome retreat for royal families looking for rest and entertainment.
Discover the untainted charm of old town Beijing on a rickshaw tour of the hutongs (narrow alleyways). Lined with wood carvings, ornate brick designs and traditional courtyard residences, the hutongs offer a glimpse into a world far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The Beijing National Stadium, also known as the “Bird’s Nest” is a stunning landmark created for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the Paralympics. The $423m stadium resembles a nest from the outside, symbolizing a cradle which holds the “hopes of mankind for the future”. As the iconic structure of the Beijing Olympic Games it has become a recognized landmark worldwide and is the world’s largest steel structure.
5 NEW LANDMARKS OF BEIJING
For Young AMERICANS
Visiting Beijing Capital Museum, you may enjoy the elaborate works in the world, experiences artistic leisure, recognize the Chinese broad and deep culture and long history.
TO BE A CHINESE IN SINGLE DAY
TAIJI Class—Have your Chinese Name—Hutong Tour—Made a Jiaozi—HuaNiaoShiChang—Cricket Fights—Tea House—TongRenTang—Noodles Made—Chinese Tailor
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