China's Crosswalk Roulette: Traffic Lights Just a Suggestion? #WTFRoads #SurvivalGuide
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Alright, let me explain this matter to you thoroughly! If you say that Beijing doesn't have much fun stuff, I kind of can empathize with you, especially if you are expecting a lighthearted and easygoing journey where you can just stroll around and enjoy yourself. Beijing might indeed confuse you somewhat due to the following reasons:
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It's just too big!
- You have to spend quite some time getting from one attraction to the other by subway or taxi, unlike small cities where a few steps will get you there.
- For many first-time foreign visitors to China, they may not have a sense of how vast Chinese cities are. Beijing's "big" may totally catch them off guard.
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People everywhere!
- Especially in famous attractions like the Palace Museum and the Great Wall, there are people everywhere! (People mountain people sea)
- This intense crowding does significantly reduce the enjoyment experience for those who don't appreciate being in a crush of people.
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The necessity to study cultural differences and historical legacies in advance
- Much pleasure in Beijing is attributed to its history and culture. If you lack understanding about Chinese history, for example, knowing little about the historical function of the Forbidden City as the ancient residence and workspace for emperors or the Temple of Heaven as the place where emperors offered tribute to heaven, you would probably think these places are "just some old buildings".
- These landmarks carry hundreds years' worth of stories, one must read up on the background so they can have a better understanding of their worth.
So then, why do so many people come?
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Top-notch on the "must-go" list !
- Beijing, the capital of China. Just like how Paris is considered a must when visiting France, and London for UK , there are just far too many symbolic sites.
- The Forbidden City, which was once an imperial palace, is the world's largest complex of imperial architecture. Not seeing it will feel like something is missing.
- The Great Wall, known worldwide for being a wonder, the saying "It's no true man without climbing the Great Wall" isn't unique to locals, but also familiar to foreigners.
- Tiananmen Square, the heart of China, it's vastness is captivating. Many go just to admire the uplifting flag-raising ceremony and experience the majestic atmosphere it evokes.
- Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, these are also UNESCO World Heritage sites, embodying the pinnacle of traditional Chinese landscape design and sacrificial culture.
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Experiencing the distinctive "Beijing flavor" culture
- Although major attractions are crowded, perusing Hutongs—unique narrow alleys within the traditional districts offers a glimpse into the life of old Peking.
- Savoring Peking roast duck, listening to Peking opera (you might not understand what's being said, but just basking in the performance is still enjoyable), all present distinctive cultural experiences.
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The collision between modernity and history.
- Besides the ancient architecture, Beijing also boasts avant-garde venues such as Nest, Water Cube, as well as high-rise buildings; the combination of new and old is rather peculiar.
️ A tip for friends who plan on traveling to Beijing (especially foreign ones: ️-
Plan in advance! Plan in advance! Plan in advance!
- How: Be sure to check the places you want to visit in advance and plan your route accordingly since Beijing is huge and spots are widely scattered.
- Why: Lack of planning wastes much time on commuting. Also, popular tourist sites such as the Forbidden City now require advance online ticket purchases. No reservation almost certainly means you won't be able to enter on the day itself, especially on holidays!
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Mentally adjust to large crowds
- How: If possible, try avoiding these times: national holidays (October 1st-7th) and the summer break (July-August). Relax if visiting during these times can't be avoided.
- Why: Crowd numbers are extremely large during these periods, causing a reduction in experience satisfaction.
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Understand modes of transportation
- How: Beijing has a highly developed metro system that makes getting to major attractions very convenient. An English supported Beijing metro app is recommended. If hailing a car, remember that peak hours might cause congestion.
- Why: Knowing exactly what you're doing can save you much hassle.
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Mobile payment methods
- How: Mobile payments (Ant Financial/WeChat) are widely used in China, many small businesses only accept them. Foreign travelers can bind international credit cards to Ant Financial/WeChat for use, or prepare some cash to avoid unforeseen circumstances.
- Why: Avoid the issue of having problems paying.
Therefore, whether Beijing is fun depends partly on individual interest and travel purpose. If your trip is aimed at absorbing history and ticking off classic spots, Beijing is definitely worth a visit! However, if you just wish for a relaxing holiday, you may need to lower your expectations or consider choosing less mainstream activities.
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Just the Tiananmen flag-raising ceremony alone is pretty much a once-in-a-lifetime must-see for every Chinese person, wouldn't you agree? And then there's the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Imperial Ancestral Temple, National Museum, Great Hall of the People, Fragrant Hills, Summer Palace, and Old Summer Palace – all essential visits, right? Plus, places like Beihai Park, Houhai, Taoranting Park, Lama Temple, Confucius Temple, Imperial College, Qianmen, and Dashilanr are definitely worth a look if you have the chance.
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And don't forget other spots like the Forbidden City (you could spend days exploring different parts!), the Military Museum, Happy Valley, Universal Studios, and the Great Wall – each of those can easily fill an entire day.
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Oh, your little hole in the ground must be so much fun. Why don't you just crawl back in, cover yourself with dirt, and definitely stay away from our grand Beijing?