Introduction Located just south of the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower is similar in size and architectural style. A steep, narrow staircase brings you up to the top floor, where 25 drums are on display – including one original. These include one large drum, representing the year, and 24 smaller Read more…
Introduction Originally built in 1272 and used for communicating city curfew times, the bell tower was a focal point for ancient Beijing until it last rang in 1924. It has been rebuilt several times over the ages, most recently in 1747 – although significant restoration was undertaken int he 1980s. Read more…
Introduction To get an idea of the “real Beijing” as it would have been in ancient times, head to the hutong districts. These former slum areas still retain their traditional architecture and atmosphere, with local family restaurants and community areas. However, the government has spent considerable money upgrading the facilities and improving access, making Read more…
Introduction The centre of Tibetan Buddhism in Beijing, the Lama Temple makes for a fascinating visit. Soak up the atmosphere as you pass through a series of halls and courtyards full of incense burners. Built in 1694 (Qing dynasty) for the Prince Yongzheng, it was originally a residential palace before Read more…
Introduction The Temple of Heaven in Beijing sits in the centre of a beautiful park in the Southeast of the city and makes for a lovely afternoon stroll. You can enjoy the peaceful surroundings as well as admire beautiful examples of traditional Chinese architecture. Don’t miss Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests Read more…
Introduction A great option for those wanting to avoid the tourist crowds, Mutianyu has been more sympathetically restored than Badaling yet is still reachable by public transport. The wall weaves gently along the hills through green trees and beautiful scenery. You can choose either the manageable half-hour hike up to Read more…
Introduction The best preserved (or perhaps most rebuilt, depending on your point of view…) section of the wall, Badaling is particularly popular with local tour groups. Although it can be very busy at weekends and national holidays, it is a good option for first-time DIY travellers due to the convenient Read more…
Introduction The Summer Palace in Beijing was built as a royal garden for the Qing dynasty emperors and their families to relax, entertain and escape the city during the hottest months of the year. It has in fact been rebuilt several times due to damage by wars and fires, but the architectural Read more…
Introduction As the ancient imperial palace of the Ming and Qing emperors (as well as their many concubines and children), the Forbidden City is one of the must-see sights of Beijing. The sprawling complex consists of almost 1000 buildings and is located conveniently at the heart of modern Beijing. Each building or hall has Read more…
Introduction Tiananmen Square, named after the Gate of Heavenly Peace, which stands between it and the Forbidden City, is one of the largest city squares in the world. It is most well-known for the Tiananmen Square Student Massacre of 1989 – although it has also been the site of many other significant events and Read more…