Just back from Beijing... and my heart is shattered 💔

[Jeannie Parisian]

Hi there, friends who plan to visit Beijing during the summer vacation or in the near future! Don't let those complicated online guides and negative reviews overwhelm you. I'll share some practical tips that will hopefully help you out.

• Travel Suggestions:
  • Many places may be closed on Mondays!
    • Museums, like the Forbidden City (the former imperial palace), National Museum of China, the Chinese Art Museum, and Beijing Astronomical Observatory usually have a day off every Monday. (However, the Forbidden City might open on Mondays during statutory holidays and summer vacations. Check their official website for details.)
    • Guozijian (the highest education institution in ancient times) is also closed on Mondays.
    • The Qiniandian Hall inside Tian'anmen Park (a famous architectural landmark with the iconic three-story blue roof) is not open on Mondays either.
  • Want to see dawn ceremony on Tian'anmen Square?
    • Pre-book your visit through "Tian'anmen Square Appointment Visit" in WeChat at least one to nine days before your intended visit. The general steps are: individual reservation > scheduled visit > select date > choose flag-raising ceremony > submit.
    • ️ Notice: It is important to bring an ID card for Chinese residents and a passport for foreigners to view the ceremony, try to avoid carrying backpacks as it will slow down security checks. Moreover, it’s best to avoid driving due to extremely far parking lots.
  • Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan):
    • To spot the picturesque Western-style buildings (those stone ruins) near Dongmen, make sure to purchase a combination ticket.
  • Summer Palace (Yiheyuan):
    • With its vast size, it’s impossible to cover your entire visit in one day! Hence there’s no need to purchase a comprehensive ticket; just select a few must-see locations.
  • Temple of Heaven (Tiantan Park):
    • Purchase a combination ticket to gain access to the complex, especially for visiting the core landmark – Qiniandian Hall (the iconic three-story blue round hall).
  • Inside the Forbidden City, some special exhibition rooms require separate tickets, such as the Clock Room and the Treasure Palace, which normally costs about 50 RMB each.
    • These halls contain plenty of precious historical artifacts well worth a visit!
  • Travel Hints:
    • It’s recommended to prepare food and water beforehand since refreshment prices at scenic spots are quite steep; buying them will feel like a loss, nor not would you want to starve either!
  • ️ Notice: You are not allowed to eat or drink inside the National Museum, so refrain from bringing refreshments with you.
  • Qiniandian Hall in Tiantan Park closes for visitors at 4 PM every day and finally closes at 5:30 PM.
    • Please remember, non-holiday Mondays remain closed! Ensure to check opening times before heading out.
  • Yonghe Temple (Lama Temple):
    • This is Beijing’s largest Tibetan Buddhist Temple. Upon entry, please refrain from wearing sunglasses and taking photos of the Buddha statues.
    • Free incense can be picked up beside the first gate (Zhaotai Gate).
  • Badaling Great Wall:
    • It is suggested to climb only the most representative parts (e.g., parts 4 through 8), as climbing the entire wall could exhaust you!
    • ️ Notice: Always pay attention to safety, wear slip-resistant shoes.
  • Prince Gong’s Mansion:
    • This historical residence was home to He Shen, a notable governmental official during Qing dynasty. A rich experience awaits those who opt for a guided tour; it offers a different taste of Qing Dynasty!
  • ️ Warning:
    • It is now necessary to make reservations well ahead of time for all tourist attractions in Beijing! Do not expect to purchase tickets last-minute – risk a missed trip and remorse!
    • Toufu (a distinct fermented soy beverage indigenous to Beijing): Despite its fame, it carries a taste peculiarly polarizing.
  • Accommodation Suggestions:
    • Avoid staying too far away to save on expenses since it may end up costing more than you bargain for. Stay centrally within areas such as the Second Ring Road and the Third Ring Road. Try choosing a location near subway stations to facilitate transportation.