|
|
 |
|
Beijing's Must-See Sights
|
| Summer Palace |
If you are a first-time visitor to Beijing, we highly recommend the following
places that you should not miss.
|
|
|
Temple of Heaven: First built in 1420, this imperial temple is where the emperors of Ming and Qing Dynasties went
to pray for a good harvest. This is the best place for you to learn about the life of regular Chinese people. If you go there
in the morning, you will meet people from all walks of life. See them ballroom dancing, doing their morning exercises, practicing
tai chi, flying kites, and singing Beijing opera. Join in, if you
like! This is absolutely a must-see place that cannot be missed.
|
|
|
Tiananmen Gate and Tiananmen
Square: Located in the center of Beijing, Tiananmen
Gate or Heavenly Peace Gate, is a national symbol. Built in the 15th century, it is the outer gate
of the Imperial Palace. Tiananmen Square is the world's largest square, and can hold up to half a million people. Chinese
people from all walks of life gather here for many large celebrations. On a daily
basis, you will find many people flying kites or exercising in the Square. The Great Hall of People, China National History
Museum, and Chairman Mao Memorial Hall can also be found here.
Forbidden
City: Within
walking distance of Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City was shelter to two dynasties of emperors (1420-1911). Built
in 1420, the Forbidden City is an amazing group of imperial palaces and courtyards that is so much a part of the history and culture of China. This vast palace
complex, China's largest and best preserved cluster of ancient buildings, has many must-see sights. Take
your time and try to wander away from the crowds to get a real feel for this magnificent place.
|
|
|
Great Wall: The most famous feature, and the symbol
of the Chinese nation to Chinese and foreigners alike, is the Great Wall. The Great Wall was first built in the Qin Dynasty,
over 2000 years ago. Called by the Chinese the 10,000 Li Wall, it is over 6700 kilometers and was built to defend China from
invasion from the north. It, however, did not keep the enemy out, but served to keep the
Chinese people in for thousands of years. All of the Chinese people know a very famous saying from Chairman Mao. "You
cannot make a true hero unless you climb the Great Wall."
Ming Tombs: About 75 kilometers to the north
of the Beijing, and built at the foot of the beautiful Tianshoushan Mountains, the Ming Tombs are the burial site of
the emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Altogether, 13 emperors, 23 empresses, and over one hundred concubines are buried here.
Dingling Tomb, the tomb of the 13th emperor was opened up in 1956. Over 3000 pieces of treasure were unearthed from the
tomb, and now some of them are displayed in Changling Tomb.
|
|
|
Summer Palace: One of the many
summer homes for the imperial family in the Qing dynasty, it is now one of the most beautiful
places in Beijing. First built in 1750 for the last Chinese dynasty, it is now enjoyed by the
local people of Beijing. Two sites that you must see are Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. Take
your time here. Perhaps take a boat ride. A slow pace lets you fully appreciate the gorgeous view and the history.
|
|
|
Hutong: Hutong
is a Mongolian term, which means water well. Now it refers to the narrow alleys and courtyard
homes of old Beijing. Taking a Hutong tour, gives you the opportunity to learn about old Beijing; when Chinese traveled in
rickshaws, and lived in courtyards, with multiple generations living under the same roof in harmony. You will have the opportunity
to visit a local family and get a close-up look at the local people's everyday lives. Consider also just "hanging
around" here in the evening. The Hutong has become a very popular place for foreigners and Chinese to visit; to go boating,
listen to music, eat, and enjoy the beautiful view.
Beijing
Journey Travel Agency
China Tour Operator
No.45, Fuxingmennei St., Xicheng District,
Beijing, China
Telephone: 0086-10-87323052
or 0086-13701172059 |
|
|
|
