Beijing, beyond the Great Wall
Beijing is one of those cities where history is difficult to separate from everyday life.
From imperial palaces to modern skyscrapers, the city has layers of history that can take weeks to explore. But if you’re visiting for the first time, a little planning can make a big difference.
Here are a few things I’d recommend considering before your trip.
1. Give the Forbidden City an entire morning
The Forbidden City is enormous. It’s not the kind of attraction I’d squeeze between two other major sightseeing spots.
If you’re interested in Chinese history, take your time exploring the palace complex. There’s a lot more to appreciate than the architecture alone.
I’d recommend booking tickets in advance and checking the official entry requirements before your visit.
And don’t forget comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking quite a bit.
2. Visit the Great Wall, but choose your section carefully
The Great Wall is one of the main reasons many people visit Beijing.
Two popular options are Badaling and Mutianyu.
Badaling is more accessible and has extensive visitor facilities. Mutianyu is known for its mountain scenery and offers a different experience.
If you prefer a more scenic visit, I’d consider Mutianyu. Just remember to account for transportation time, especially if you’re planning to return to Beijing on the same day.
3. Don’t underestimate the distances
Beijing is huge.
Two attractions may look close on a map but take much longer to reach than expected.
I’d group attractions by area rather than trying to visit places on opposite sides of the city in one day.
The subway is convenient for many journeys, but you’ll still need to factor in walking time and security checks at some stations.
4. Prepare your phone before arriving
This is one of the most practical things to do before travelling to China.
Make sure you have access to mobile internet and check which apps and services you’ll need.
I’d prepare:
- A navigation app that works in China.
- A translation app with offline language support.
- A mobile payment option that works with your account.
- Your hotel address written in Chinese.
Having your hotel address in Chinese can be particularly useful when communicating with taxi drivers.
5. Leave some time for the less famous places
It’s tempting to fill every day with famous landmarks.
But Beijing also has hutongs, traditional neighbourhoods, local restaurants, and quieter corners that can offer a different perspective on the city.
I’d leave at least one afternoon without a rigid schedule.
Sometimes, exploring a neighbourhood and finding somewhere interesting to eat can be just as rewarding as visiting another famous attraction.
One last thing
Beijing is a city that deserves time.
You can see the major landmarks in a few days, but understanding the city is a different matter.
If it’s your first visit, don’t worry about seeing everything. Pick the places that interest you most and give yourself enough time to enjoy them.