Beijing is the cultural and historic heart of China, a mix of Imperial, Communist and modern day influences.
Beijing is the natural starting point for our first-time visitors to the People's Republic. It is here that you will explore centuries of extraordinary history and observe modern life in a thriving 21st century China. In the sprawling 15th century Forbidden City, on the sacred steps of the Temple of Heaven and in the landscaped gardens of the Summer Palace, you can relive the might and power of the Dynastic years, when all-powerful emperors ruled over China. Better yet, we'll arrive before the crowds to observe the elderly locals who rise early to take communal exercises in the park and gather to sing their red songs.
In the vast Tiananmen Square, the uncompromising communism of the Chairman Mao era is embodied in the brutal Soviet style buildings which line this immense public space. Venture into the ancient hutong alleyways to find pockets of life largely untouched by the explosive capitalism of recent years. The younger generation might be moving to the outskirts, but these streets are still home to many Mao-era Beijingers.
But Beijing is not all about the past; micro-breweries, contemporary hotels and the flourishing 798 Art District lend the city a young, creative and dynamic edge. Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism thrive and coexist harmoniously, celebrated and worshipped in magnificent temples.
Beijing is also the place to access the mythical Great Wall of China, both reconstructed and easily-accessed areas around an hour from the city, to our favourite wilder and atmospheric sections slightly further afield.
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Specialist Insights
Beijing & Great Wall
Special in-depth Beijing tour
Gain an in-depth perspective on Beijing's past and present with our specially designed tour of the capital.
Beijing & Great Wall
Forbidden City
Explore the ancient complex, home to 24 Chinese emperors to immerse yourself in China’s Dynastic past.
Beijing & Great Wall
Summer Palace & Old Palace
Tour the magnificent lakeside summer residence of emperors, cross the lake by boat and see the Old Palace ruins.
Beijing & Great Wall
Temple of Heaven Park
Climb the sacred steps to one of China’s finest temples and observe locals taking their morning exercises.
Beijing & Great Wall
Hike the Great Wall of China
A range of options to hike along a wild and atmospheric part of the Great Wall of China, just north of Beijing.
Beijing & Great Wall
Mutianyu Great Wall & Ming tombs
Ride the cable cars to a picturesque restored section of the Great Wall and visit the impressive Ming tombs.
Beijing & Great Wall
Hutongs: Behind the Scenes
Traverse the alleyways of a traditional hutong to gain an insight into life here and partake in cultural activities.
Beijing & Great Wall
Beijing off the beaten track
Delve into Beijing's lesser visited places to gain a different perspective on life here, away from the crowds.
Beijing & Great Wall
Three temples tour
Visit three beautiful temples to learn how Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism remain relevant today.
Beijing & Great Wall
798 Art Zone
Wander the bohemian streets of Beijing’s art district to see the creative side of the city, full of surprises.
Beijing & Great Wall
Opera, Kung Fu & Acrobatics
Enjoy the world famous Peking Opera, a breathtaking acrobatics performance or some high flying Kung Fu.
Beijing & Great Wall
Museums of Beijing
Discover more about Beijing’s captivating history, culture and art at some of the city’s specialist museums.
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Conrad Hotel
Beijing & Great Wall
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Beijing & Great Wall
Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town
Beijing & Great Wall
Double Happiness Courtyard Hotel
Beijing & Great Wall
Hotel Cote Cour
Beijing & Great Wall
Penta Hotel
Beijing & Great Wall
Regent Hotel
Beijing & Great Wall
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