Few notice, but all remember. Step off the obvious path to discover
the quiet gems Beijing
has to offer
Originally built with assistance from the Soviet Union, specifically from East Germany, the site was home to the Beijing North China Radio Equipment Joint Factory, known as the 718 Joint Factory. Factory 798 was one of several factories that made up the 718 Joint Factory. In 2002, the area began its transformation into an art district.
Today, the 798 Art District hosts galleries, design studios, and art exhibition spaces. It has also become a symbol of China’s openness to the West.
Originally part of the Imperial City, is considered the oldest and most well-preserved ancient imperial garden in China. Its origins date back to the Jin dynasty (1115–1234). During the Yuan dynasty, it was enclosed within the Imperial City walls. The iconic white pagoda on Flower Island was built later to honor the visit of the 5th Dalai Lama. The park served not only as a recreational area but also as a residence for members of the Imperial Family.
Also known as the Imperial Path, the Beijing Central Axis stretches 7.8 kilometers from Yongding Gate to the Bell Tower. Originating from the layout of ancient Beijing in the 13th century, all significant imperial buildings were positioned along or near this axis. Even in modern times, structures like the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum are located just a few meters away from this historic line.
The axis was almost exclusively reserved for the emperor, running north to south, from his throne in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Emperor could maintain an unbroken line of sight to the southernmost gate.
Beijing is home to a remarkable array of contemporary buildings. From the National Centre for the Performing Arts near Tian’anmen Square, to the Bird’s Nest and Terminal 3 at the Capital Airport, both constructed for the Summer Olympics, to iconic structures designed by world-renowned architects such as Wangjing SOHO, Chaoyang Park Plaza, and the Central TV Station Headquarters.
Many of these buildings are located in bustling areas and are easily accessible for visitors.
Located in Beijing’s most iconic area, right next to the Great Hall of the People, this “half-egg-shaped” structure serves as the most exclusive venue for performing arts in China. Performances run constantly at this location, and with advance booking, it is entirely feasible to enjoy any of the shows.
Visiting the interior of the building is highly recommended, as 60% of it is underground due to urban planning regulations that prevented it from being taller than the Great Hall of the People. The Centre also boasts many other fascinating features, such as the water body that surrounds it, which does not freeze in winter due to a continuous water flow system.
Probably the simplest and most rewarding activity is walking or biking through the streets of Beijing’s Old Inner City. From exploring the hutongs to strolling along Chang’an Street, visiting community parks, and discovering hidden gems, this is undoubtedly the best way to connect with the city and its people.
In China, studying at this university is a significant accomplishment, bringing pride and honor to one’s family. As the country’s most renowned university, it has a relatively short history since its founding in 1898 but holds great importance within Chinese society. The current campus was originally occupied by Yanjing University, while Beijing University was previously located near the Forbidden City.
The university’s gardens are also well worth a visit, especially those on the old campus. For those interested in university life, this visit is a must. However, Chinese universities are not open to the general public, and entrance is regulated, typically requiring an invitation.
The Confucius Temple was established during the Yuan Dynasty, has a history spanning over 700 years (longer than the Forbidden City), and is the second largest in the world. The Imperial College, built a few years later, was regarded as the highest educational institution during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, where only top scholars were admitted.
These two historic venues represent aspects in the development of Chinese culture and society that have had an everlasting impact on it. Confucian principles remain ubiquitous across Chinese society, while the educational legacy of the Imperial College has shaped Chinese academia and had a great impact on society.
Not far from the Summer Palace, you’ll find an ideal spot for a mountain excursion. The best seasons to visit are spring, during the blossom, and autumn, when you can enjoy the vibrant colors. The area is dotted with temples and amenities, including food vendors and tea shops, where you can sit and relax. For those who prefer not to hike to the top, a chairlift is available.
The Fragrant Hills are accessible by subway. Near the north gate, you’ll find the Emerald Cloud Temple and the Sleeping Buddha Temple.
It is the most important Lamaist temple outside Tibet and undoubtedly one of the most fascinating places of worship in Beijing. The last pavilion houses an 18-meter-tall Buddha statue carved from a single piece of white sandalwood brought from Nepal. It is the city’s most significant active monastery, where tourists and devotees mingle alike.
Originally catering to Mongols and located within the Inner City, it is now an ideal destination to gain a deeper understanding of the role of Buddhism in Chinese society and to experience the common practices associated with temple visits.
Beijing’s old diplomatic area appeared after the Second Opium War (1856–60). This foreign element had a very significant impact on the development of the city and introduced changes in the landscape and culture. The area was rebuilt after the Boxer Rebellion and became even more European. It enjoyed a status of extraterritoriality and had its own laws and tax system.
The area still preserves a significant collection of Western-style buildings. The old Beijing Train Station and St. Michael’s Church are some examples of buildings from that time that are still standing.
The oldest temple in Beijing, established by the first dynasty that inhabited Beijing, the Jing (265-420). Nestled between the mountain’s cliff and trees, this is our favorite temple in the city. However, it is not very easy to reach. Walking past the main hall, there are two thousand-year-old ginkgo trees standing on both sides of the central axis.
Both magnolia and ginkgo trees add a special appeal to this place. The magnolias bloom beautifully in late April, while the ginkgo trees turn a mesmerizing golden yellow in late autumn. Besides the temple, there is an area nearby called the Pagoda Forest, where more than 70 pagodas are gathered.
The Temple of the Sun was a site where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties performed rituals to worship the Sun, particularly during the spring equinox. During the mid-19th century, the site fell into disuse.
However, in recent years, it has undergone revitalization and has become a popular destination for enjoying leisurely strolls in a classic Chinese-style park setting.
During the 20th century, the park was gradually absorbed by the expanding city. As a result, its surroundings are now filled with restaurants, shopping malls, and other urban amenities.
Tianning Temple is considered the oldest temple in Beijing, with its origins dating back to the Liao Dynasty. The temple’s original form was constructed between 1119 and 1120. The place emanates a serene and tranquil atmosphere, attracting locals who come to pray and meditate.
Near the pagoda, there is a smoke tower that once belonged to a now-closed factory. Together, these structures beautifully reflect the coexistence of Beijing’s ancient heritage and its modern history.
One of the few remnants of Kublai Khan’s capital, it is the oldest Buddhist temple in Beijing (1279). The monastery houses an incredible collection of copper Buddha statues from various origins, periods, and styles. It was, and still is, the symbol of old Dadu.
Enjoying a coffee nearby while listening to the pagoda bell and watching the pigeons fly can make for the perfect afternoon. Just be sure not to confuse this pagoda with its smaller twin located in Beihai Park.
Named in honor of Sun Yat-sen (1866–1925), a renowned Chinese politician who was buried here, the park is adjacent to the Forbidden City. At its center lies an altar containing five-colored soil collected from across the country. This park exemplifies the characteristics of an imperial garden and has become a hot spot for photography enthusiasts, especially during the spring and autumn seasons.