Forbidden City
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- Character of the city
The residents of Beijing speak a dialect of Mandarin Chinese that forms the basis of Modern Standard Chinese (Guoyu), or putonghua (“common language”), which is commonly taught throughout the country.
What UNESCO World Heritage site is found at the heart of Beijing?
The Forbidden City is an imperial palace complex at the heart of Beijing, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987 in recognition of its importance not only as the centre of Chinese power for five centuries but also for its unparalleled architecture and adherence to the practice of feng shui.
What is the former name of Beijing?
The former name of Beijing is Beiping (Pei-p’ing; “Northern Peace”). The third Ming emperor gave it the new name of Beijing (“Northern Capital”) during the 15th century.
How long has Beijing been the capital of China?
Although much of Beijing’s older and more picturesque character has been destroyed in the drive since 1949 to modernize and industrialize, some parts of the city are still redolent of the past. Many fine monumental buildings, old restaurants, and centres of traditional Chinese arts and crafts remain, and the central government has taken measures to prevent the city core from being further industrialized. Broad new boulevards, replete with even newer commercial ventures, have displaced the colourful stalls and markets for which the city was once famous, but the neighbourhood life of old Beijing can still be glimpsed in the narrow hutongs (residential alleys), with their tiny potted-plant gardens, enclosed courtyards, and (decreasingly) coal-burning stoves—some of which are still guarded by carved stone lions at their gates.
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People in Beijing commute by subway, bus, automobile, or bicycle and on hot summer evenings sit outside their apartment blocks to catch cooling breezes and to chat. The citizenry has a wide range of leisure pursuits, particularly those considered good for health. The ancient art of tai chi chuan (taijuquan; Chinese boxing) is widely practiced, singly or in groups, along roadsides and in parks. Locals as well as tourists are attracted to the many nearby historical sites, such as the Summer Palace, the tombs of the Ming emperors, and the Great Wall. Older people, especially the men, like to huddle in tiny restaurants and tea shops. Young people are drawn to the city’s many cafés and nightclubs, where the entertainment can range from DJ-run dance music to Chinese rock bands.
For all the vicissitudes of its history, Beijing continues to be a source of great pride for its inhabitants. Their obsessions are, as they have been for centuries, food and knowledge: they eat heartily when they have the means and read voraciously. Food stalls on the streets, selling a variety of cooked treats, are well patronized, as are newspaper and magazine kiosks. The ambition of most families is to provide their offspring with a higher education or, if not that, a good job.
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Learn about Beijing, the capital of China and a metropolis with a history of more than 3,000 years. Explore its cultural and historical attractions, such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Hutong and the 798 Art District, as well as its modern and diverse attractions, such as the 798 Art District, the International Music Festival and the airport.
Explore Beijing's ancient and modern attractions, from the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven to Tian'anmen Square and 798 Art District. Find tips on the best things to do, day trips, food, culture and more in this comprehensive guide.
- The Forbidden City. Panorama of The Forbidden City. Open: 8:30am–5:00pm Apr.– Oct.; 8:30am–4:30pm Nov.– Mar.; closed on Mondays. Recommended visit: 2 hours. Entry: CN¥60 (US$9)
- The Great Wall of China. Jinshanling Great Wall section. Open: 8:30am–5:00pm. Recommended visit: 2 hours for sightseeing, half a day for hiking. Entry: Prices vary for different Great Wall sections.
- The Temple of Heaven. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Open: 6:00am–5:30pm Apr.– Oct.; 6:30am–5:00pm Nov.– Mar. Recommended visit: 2 hours. Entry: CN¥34 (US$5)
- The Summer Palace. Seventeen-Arch Bridge. Open: 6:30am–6:00pm Apr.– Oct.; 8:30am–5:00pm Nov.– Mar. Recommended visit: 1½ hours. Entry: CN¥30 (US$5) The Summer Palace is 15 kilometers (9 miles) from downtown Beijing.
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Learn everything you need to know about Beijing, the capital of China and one of the world's great ancient capitals. Find out the top attractions, how to plan a trip, the best times to visit, and the real reviews of travelers.
Feb 9, 2022 · Discover the best attractions and activities in China's capital, from historic hutong alleyways and the Great Wall to Peking duck and jianbing pancakes. Learn about Beijing's culture, history and cuisine with Lonely Planet's tips and insights.
