A Lineup of World-Famous Landmarks! 37 Recommended Tourist Spots in Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China and one of the world’s leading international cities, offers a variety of tourist attractions. While the Great Wall of China and Tiananmen Square, both World Heritage sites, might immediately come to mind, Beijing also has many other spots where you can learn about China’s history, places that are essential for understanding the relationship between China and Japan, and venues where you can appreciate China’s unique artistic culture. The city boasts a wide range of tourist attractions across various genres.

If you travel to Beijing, here are 37 must-visit recommended tourist spots!

1. Tiananmen Square

Located in the center of Beijing, the gate that used to be the main entrance to the "Forbidden City (Imperial Palace)," a World Heritage Site, is called "Tiananmen." Known for the portrait of Mao Zedong in the center, its red walls, and orange roof, this gate is one of the world's top tourist attractions. The vast Tiananmen Square to the south of the gate is also always bustling with tourists.

The main highlight of Tiananmen Square is the flag-raising platform. The flag is raised every morning at sunrise and lowered at sunset. A ceremony is performed during the flag-raising and lowering, so be sure to witness it when you visit Beijing.

Other highlights include the Monument to the People's Heroes in the center of the square and the beautifully illuminated Tiananmen Gate at night.

Tiananmen Square is a classic tourist destination in Beijing. Why not visit and feel the history of China? Also, since the Forbidden City (Imperial Palace) is located right next to Tiananmen Square, it's recommended to visit both together.

2. Forbidden City (Imperial Palace)

The "Forbidden City," registered as a World Heritage Site, is one of the world's largest wooden palaces. Also known as "Zǐjìnchéng" (The Purple Forbidden City), it is one of the most iconic tourist spots in Beijing. For hundreds of years, only the emperor and his family were allowed to enter the Forbidden City, where visitors can now admire its grand exterior and beautiful gardens.

Today, you can enter the interior, which functions as a museum, making it a must-visit during your trip. The Forbidden City is vast, so it's recommended to rent an audio guide or join a guided tour. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, be sure to pick up a map at the ticket booth.

The Forbidden City is packed with attractions, so take your time to explore it thoroughly. Researching Chinese history, traditions, and feng shui beforehand can make your visit even more enjoyable.

Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is easily accessible on foot, a convenience that tourists appreciate. During your trip to Beijing, be sure to visit the Forbidden City and explore the world’s largest palace.

3. Temple of Heaven

Situated in the southern part of Beijing, the "Temple of Heaven" boasts a vast area even larger than the Forbidden City. It is a historical site filled with ancient buildings and is also registered as a World Heritage Site. The Temple of Heaven was a sacred place where emperors performed rituals to pray for abundant harvests, with the Circular Mound Altar being a popular attraction as the actual site where these rituals took place.

Another highlight is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, known for its unique circular shape. You can enter the hall and enjoy viewing the emperor's throne and lavish decorations.

When visiting Beijing, don't miss the Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing's iconic attractions and a World Heritage Site, where you can appreciate the enduring stage of Chinese history.

Audio guides in Japanese are available at the Temple of Heaven. Since the grounds are vast, renting one can be very convenient.

4. Summer Palace

The "Summer Palace" spans an area of 290 hectares, with approximately 75% of it covered by water, making it Beijing's largest royal garden. Known as the "Imperial Gardens of Beijing - Summer Palace," it is also a World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic tourist spots in Beijing, alongside the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City. The Summer Palace was used as a summer retreat by the imperial family during the Qing dynasty and is famous as the residence of Empress Dowager Cixi.

The most notable feature of the Summer Palace is its immense size—about 62 times the size of the Tokyo Dome! One of its symbols is the Tower of Buddhist Incense, located halfway up Longevity Hill within the gardens. Inside the three-story tower is a golden statue of the Thousand-Handed, Thousand-Eyed Guanyin Bodhisattva, so be sure to visit.

Additionally, the Long Corridor, stretching 728 meters along the northern shore of Kunming Lake, features over 14,000 paintings, making it well worth a look.
At the Summer Palace, a classic tourist spot in Beijing, you can also enjoy nature, and having a picnic within the grounds is highly recommended!

5. Beijing Museum of Natural History

The "Beijing Museum of Natural History" is a popular tourist spot in Beijing where you can view more than 200,000 exhibits, including dinosaur models and ancient reptile skeletons. The museum offers a variety of exhibits across different genres, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.

In the dinosaur section, there is an attraction where children can race a bicycle to see if they are faster than a dinosaur, which is especially popular with the little ones! Other exhibits include the "Ancient Mammals Exhibit" where you can see ancient elephants, the "Plant World Exhibit" that teaches about the origin of plants, and the "Animal Secrets Exhibit" displaying animal taxidermy. Why not visit and explore these exciting exhibits?

The Beijing Museum of Natural History is a popular attraction not only for tourists but also for locals. Although all explanations are in Chinese, the exhibits are enjoyable even without reading the descriptions, so feel free to take a look.

6. Beijing Zhengyangmen

Located in the heart of Beijing, "Beijing Zhengyangmen" was once part of the city walls surrounding Beijing and is now a famous tourist attraction. Its grand and imposing appearance remains unchanged from the past, and its towering presence is awe-inspiring. Visitors can also climb to the rooftop of Zhengyangmen, where they can enjoy the views, which is one of its appealing features.

Since the buildings around Zhengyangmen are not very tall, you can enjoy a view of the Beijing cityscape from here. At night, both Zhengyangmen and Jianlou are illuminated, creating a different atmosphere compared to the daytime, so be sure to experience both.

Zhengyangmen is located just south of Tiananmen Square, within walking distance of the Forbidden City, so it's recommended to visit these spots together.

7. Beihai Park

"Beihai Park" in Beijing is one of the oldest royal gardens in the world, built over 1,000 years ago. Surrounded by a vast lake, it is a popular tourist destination where visitors can enjoy boating in the summer and skating in the winter. It is a place frequented not only by tourists but also by local Beijing families.

The main attraction in Beihai Park is the White Pagoda located on Qiónghuá Island. It is a Tibetan-style pagoda, and visitors are encouraged to take a closer look. From the White Pagoda, you can also get views of the Beijing cityscape, including other tourist spots like the Forbidden City! In addition, Yong'an Temple, a Tibetan Buddhist temple located on the south side of Qiónghuá Island, is another recommended spot to visit.

Beihai Park also offers guided tours, which are recommended for those who want more detailed explanations. Additionally, you can rent bicycles to explore the vast grounds, making your visit more enjoyable.

8. Yonghe Temple

Located in the center of Beijing, "Yonghe Temple" is the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in the city and is always bustling with visitors. Covering an area of approximately 66,000 square meters, the Yonghe Temple combines various architectural styles, including Han, Manchu, Mongolian, and Tibetan, giving it a unique and exotic appearance that is worth exploring.

Yonghe Temple also has three must-see attractions known as the "Three Great Treasures." The first is the Maitreya statue in Wanfu Pavilion, which is said to have been presented by the 7th Dalai Lama. The second is the Five Hundred Arhat Hill in the Hall of Dharma Wheel, and the third is the Buddha niche carved from sandalwood.

In addition to these highlights, Yonghe Temple also features frescoes and beautiful Chinese decorations, making it a must-visit during your trip to Beijing. Since Yonghe Temple is still a sacred space used for religious purposes, please be mindful of the rules, such as not taking photographs or making too much noise during your visit.

9. Lugou Bridge

"Lugou Bridge" is a bridge built over the Yongding River, which flows from the mountains to the sea in the northern region of China. It is said that Marco Polo, who visited Beijing, praised it as the most beautiful bridge in the world. This is why it is also known as the "Marco Polo Bridge."

The bridge spans approximately 266 meters and is known for its stone lions lined along the railings. Each lion is different, and they are so intricately carved that there's even a legend that they come to life at night. The bridge has an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere, so take your time to observe each statue as you cross.

The Lugou Bridge is also historically significant as the site of the clash between Japanese and Chinese forces that triggered the Second Sino-Japanese War, known as the "Marco Polo Bridge Incident." Many may know of Lugou Bridge because of this event. Visiting Lugou Bridge may give you a new appreciation for Sino-Japanese friendship.

Lugou Bridge is also famous for its scenic views. Be sure to enjoy the peaceful nature surrounding the bridge. Located about 16 km from Tiananmen Square in Beijing, it is recommended to visit by public transportation, such as buses.

10. Yuanmingyuan

"Yuanmingyuan" is a vast garden spanning 348 hectares, where visitors can enjoy various landscapes such as ponds, bridges, islands, and corridors. It is a popular tourist destination in Beijing. The most notable feature of Yuanmingyuan is the ruins of the destroyed buildings. During the Second Opium War, the British and French armies targeted this garden, looting many artworks and destroying the beautiful structures once known as the "Versailles of the East."

There is still an ongoing debate on whether to preserve the ruins as a reminder of history or to restore the garden to its former beauty. If you are interested, now is a great time to visit and see it as it stands today. Additionally, if you want to see how Yuanmingyuan once looked, there is an exhibition displaying a recreated model of the garden.

Yuanmingyuan is located less than 10 km from the center of Beijing, making it easily accessible by bus or train. When you visit Beijing, be sure to explore Yuanmingyuan and experience the turbulent history it represents.

11. Jingshan Park

Once a royal garden, "Jingshan Park" was created by landscaping the hill located north of the Forbidden City. The park contains many historical sites, such as the Shouhuang Hall, which houses the statues of past emperors, and the Guande Hall, where the coffins of the emperor and empress were once kept. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a deep dive into history, Jingshan Park is a tourist spot that everyone can enjoy.

Jingshan Park is famous for its beautiful, expansive views. From the park, you can see the endless rooftops of the Forbidden City, the White Pagoda of Beihai Park, and the stunning views of the Beijing cityscape. At sunset, the Forbidden City is bathed in golden light, and at night, the park offers spectacular views of the illuminated city, making it a popular night-time destination.

Jingshan Park is also bustling with local Beijingers. You can watch people practicing tai chi or take a peaceful walk among the over 200 types of peonies and other plants. It's a great spot for those who want to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Jingshan Park is located directly north of the Forbidden City and right next to Beihai Park, making it an easy stop during your sightseeing tour of Beijing.

12. Beijing 798 Art District

The "Beijing 798 Art District" has become a hotspot for tourists due to its transformation from a Communist factory complex into a concentration of artists' studios and galleries. It is the largest art district not only in Beijing but in all of China, and it serves as a hub for contemporary Chinese art, attracting art lovers from around the world.

Here, visitors can enjoy outdoor sculptures and painting exhibits or explore various indoor galleries with changing exhibitions of paintings, performances, and other forms of art. The 798 Art District lacks the formal atmosphere of a museum, with no information desks or guide maps, making it a welcoming place for those unfamiliar with art to explore at their leisure.

The district also offers art-related gift shops, restaurants, and bars, so you can buy souvenirs or take a break while exploring. When visiting Beijing, don't miss the opportunity to experience cutting-edge Chinese art in the unique atmosphere of the 798 Art District.

13. National Museum of China

The "National Museum of China" is one of the largest comprehensive museums in the world, with a floor area of approximately 200,000 square kilometers. Its permanent exhibitions offer visitors the chance to learn about China's 5,000-year history, from the Neolithic period onward.

The most remarkable feature of this tourist spot is its immense scale. It is said that the museum contains over 1 million items, making it difficult to see everything in a single day. Therefore, it's recommended to choose specific genres of interest and prioritize them during your visit.

The museum also features special exhibitions that change periodically, some of which are paid, showcasing artworks from around the world. With such a wide variety of exhibits, it offers something for everyone at any time.

14. Wangfujing Street

Wangfujing Street (Wangfujing Dajie), which stretches approximately 1,600 meters, is a pedestrian-only street known as Beijing’s most bustling shopping district. It is a popular tourist destination where you can find everything from the latest fashion to Beijing’s specialty foods and souvenirs.

One of the defining features of the Wangfujing area is the presence of snack stalls that offer not only Beijing cuisine but also traditional Chinese food. You can try authentic Chinese dishes as well as unusual foods such as insects and snakes, which you won't typically find in Japan. The street is filled with shops offering products from all over the world, making it popular with both tourists and locals from Beijing.

The charm of Wangfujing Street doesn’t stop there. It is also home to Wangfujing Cathedral, which is worth visiting. It is especially beautiful when illuminated at night, so make sure to stop by. Wangfujing Street is conveniently located to the east of the Forbidden City, making it easily accessible.

15. Central Radio and TV Tower

Standing at 405 meters tall, the "Central Radio and TV Tower" is the sixth tallest in the world and is considered one of the top ten buildings of the 20th century, making it an iconic tourist destination in Beijing. Its main attraction is the observation deck.

The observation deck rotates and is equipped with an outdoor balcony, providing a thrilling experience that you can't find anywhere else! From this deck, you can view not only the Beijing cityscape but also major tourist sites such as the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace using a telescope.

The tower also includes a cultural center where you can learn about its history, a revolving restaurant that takes about 80 minutes to complete a 360-degree rotation, and an aquarium. There’s something for everyone to enjoy from various perspectives.

16. Beijing National Aquatics Center (Water Cube)

The "Beijing National Aquatics Center," commonly known as the "Water Cube," is a water park geared toward tourists and the wealthy. The main feature of the Water Cube is its whimsical and fantasy-like atmosphere. The roof, ceiling, and walls are intricately designed, creating the feeling of being underwater!

In addition to the decor, the water slides and play areas are cute and particularly popular with children and women. Moreover, there is a viewing area, so you can visit and enjoy the site even without entering the pool.

The Beijing National Aquatics Center was the swimming venue for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where Japanese swimmer Kosuke Kitajima won his gold medals. As a result, many tourists from Japan visit this site. When sightseeing in Beijing, why not visit the Water Cube and enjoy its charming and fantasy-like atmosphere?

17. Gubei Water Town

Gubei Water Town is a theme park located at the foot of Simatai Great Wall, one of the iconic sections of the Great Wall of China, and it was developed over three and a half years by restoring old villages. This expansive park, covering an area equivalent to about nine Tokyo Domes, incorporates canals utilizing the natural dammed terrain of the area.

The most notable feature of Gubei Water Town is the opportunity to enjoy nature’s changing beauty throughout the seasons. In spring, you can see the lush greenery and flowers; in summer, you can tour the town on hand-rowed boats; and in winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland. Gubei Water Town is also famous for its beautiful night views. The clean air in this region of China creates a stunning sight as the old town is illuminated in a magical way. Additionally, the cable car provides easy access to the Simatai Great Wall, which is another great advantage.

Seeing the Great Wall from the cable car offers a different perspective compared to viewing it from the ground, so it’s highly recommended! Gubei Water Town is an excellent spot to enjoy both the natural surroundings and the atmosphere of old villages while also having convenient access to the Great Wall, making it a must-visit destination in Beijing.

18. Peking University

"Peking University" is one of the top national universities in China, but it is also a popular tourist destination. The main reason for this is the lake within the campus. Peking University, already vast in size, is home to a lake called Weiming Lake.

Surrounded by greenery, it’s a great place for those who want to enjoy nature. In winter, the lake freezes and transforms into an ice-skating rink, which is another charming feature. Weiming Lake is popular not only with students but also with tourists and locals who come to admire it.

Additionally, Peking University is home to the largest library in any Asian university and a magnificent tower called the Boya Pagoda. The campus’s grand scale, unique atmosphere, and vibrant student life make it a great destination, especially for students attending universities in Japan who want to experience something different.

19. Beijing Zoo

When you think of China, pandas probably come to mind, right? The best place to enjoy these popular pandas is at the "Beijing Zoo," which is the oldest and largest zoo in China. The zoo houses about 600 species of animals, so you can see creatures from all over the world.

The pandas are the most popular attraction and constantly draw tourists' attention. The zoo even has a dedicated "Panda House" where only pandas are housed.

There are two areas: an outdoor exhibit for adult pandas and an indoor exhibit for panda cubs, so take note of the difference. The pandas can be seen up close through the glass walls of the exhibit rooms, so don’t forget to bring your camera when visiting. For the best viewing experience, it's recommended to see the pandas in the morning when they are most active.

Beijing Zoo offers more than just animal exhibits. You can also explore the former residences and architecture of noble families. If you have time, it’s worth taking a more in-depth look.

20. Beijing Aquarium

Adjacent to the Beijing Zoo is the "Beijing Aquarium," one of the largest inland aquariums in the world, both in terms of size and the number of species it houses. The aquarium is home to more than 1,000 species of marine life and over 30,000 fish.

Beijing Aquarium is divided into six themed areas, with the most popular being the "Ocean Theater," where marine animal shows take place. The sea lion, seal, dolphin, and whale shows range from thrilling performances to ones that will make you laugh, providing top-notch entertainment. The dolphin show is especially popular, so be sure to catch it if you have time.

The Beijing Aquarium is a leisure facility next to the Beijing Zoo. After seeing pandas and other animals from around the world, why not head over to the aquarium to enjoy marine life as well?

21. Ming Tombs

Located on the outskirts of Beijing, the "Ming Tombs" are the resting place of 13 emperors and empresses from the Ming dynasty. It is the largest existing imperial mausoleum complex in China and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Out of the 13 tombs, three—Changling, Dingling, and Zhaoling—are currently open to the public.

The main highlight of this tourist spot is the "Sacred Way" (Shendao), the path leading to the Ming Tombs. This long pathway, which serves as the entrance to the tombs, is lined with stone statues of elephants, dragons, and other creatures. One of the public tombs, Dingling, also contains an underground palace, which is said to have once held many treasures.

Since the Ming Tombs complex is vast, it’s more efficient to plan your visit and choose specific destinations to explore. When touring Beijing, don’t miss the chance to visit these UNESCO World Heritage-listed tombs of the Ming emperors.

22. Happy Valley Beijing

Located at Siyuan Bridge on the Fourth Ring Road in the southeast of Beijing, "Happy Valley Beijing" is one of the largest theme parks in China. It’s a hugely popular spot, not only among tourists but also with locals.

Happy Valley Beijing is divided into six themed areas, with approximately 120 interactive attractions throughout the park. From thrilling rides for adrenaline junkies to attractions suitable for families with young children, there’s something for visitors of all ages.

Besides the rides, water shows and other performances are held. A visit to Happy Valley Beijing, with its large scale unlike anything in Japan, guarantees a full day of fun. The park also has restaurants, so there’s no need to worry about food and rest during your visit.

23. Beijing National Botanical Garden

The "Beijing National Botanical Garden" is a large-scale botanical garden located in the western suburbs of Beijing. It was established by merging the Beijing Botanical Garden and the Chinese Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden and opened on April 18, 2022.

The garden spans approximately 400 hectares and displays thousands of plant species from both domestic and international locations. It features themed areas such as a rose garden, greenhouse, and medicinal plant area, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of different plants throughout the seasons.

The Beijing National Botanical Garden is an ideal place for strolling, picnicking, and photography. In spring, cherry blossoms and plum trees bloom, attracting many tourists and locals alike.

24. Shichahai

Shichahai (Shichahai) refers to three interconnected lakes (Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai) located north of the Forbidden City. It is a popular tourist destination where visitors can enjoy the old Beijing atmosphere.

In 2000, it was designated a "Historical and Cultural Preservation Area" due to the many cultural relics that remain, and its scenic beauty is a must-see. You can enjoy the old town by taking a boat ride across the lake. In winter, the lakes freeze over and transform into ice skating rinks. Around the lakes, there are stylish cafes and bars, making it convenient for meals or rest.

If you visit Beijing, don’t just experience modern Beijing, but also enjoy Shichahai, a place considered the birthplace of the city, where you can experience old Beijing's charm.

25. Beijing Olympic Park

The "Beijing Olympic Park," which was the venue for the 2008 Olympics, remains a popular tourist attraction. The main highlight is the Beijing National Stadium, known as the "Bird’s Nest," where the opening ceremony was held.

Just seeing its unique structure is enjoyable, but it is particularly beautiful when illuminated at night! The red glow from inside creates a stunning light display that captivates tourists. It’s one of Beijing’s top night-view spots, so be sure to visit in the evening.

Other attractions such as the Water Cube, which hosted the swimming competitions, and the Olympic Tower, designed with stacked triangular shapes, are also illuminated at night. You can even go inside these facilities.

When visiting Beijing, take a trip down memory lane and relive the excitement of the 2008 Olympics while enjoying the enchanting night views at the Beijing Olympic Park.

26. Southeast Corner Tower of Beijing City Wall

The "Southeast Corner Tower of Beijing City Wall," located just south of Beijing Railway Station, is a tourist spot where you can still see the remaining city walls from the Ming dynasty. These walls were originally built to protect the Forbidden City and once encircled all of Beijing. However, most of the walls have since been demolished, making the Southeast Corner Tower and the city walls very valuable historical structures.

The inside of the corner tower, which was built on the wall, now serves as a history museum, so don’t forget to explore it. On the southern side of the wall, you can still see traces of the railway and signals that were in use until about 60 years ago. The area has been developed into the Ming City Wall Relics Park, making it a nice place to stroll while sightseeing in Beijing.

27. Zhoukoudian Peking Man Site (Zhoukoudian Site Museum)

The Zhoukoudian Peking Man Site, located about 5 km southwest of Beijing, is a famous tourist spot where a skull, estimated to be between 200,000 and 700,000 years old, was discovered in the 1920s. This skull was named the "Peking Man." This site has also revealed other important information, such as evidence that the Peking Man used fire, lived in groups, and utilized tools, making it a significant archaeological site.

The "Zhoukoudian Site Museum" at the Peking Man Site displays replicas of the Peking Man skull and other important finds that led to the discovery of this early human species. Visitors can also explore excavation sites and caves. As a key to understanding human evolution, this site is a must-see and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

28. The Great Wall of China

The most famous and iconic tourist destination in Beijing is the "Great Wall of China." The Great Wall stretches over 2,000 kilometers and is the longest man-made structure in the world. In 1987, it became China’s first World Heritage site.

The Great Wall was originally built by connecting and repairing earth walls and ramparts to prevent invasions by foreign tribes. The first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, initiated the construction of the Great Wall. As China's territory expanded, the wall was extended throughout history.

The current structure of the Great Wall dates back to the Ming dynasty. Due to its immense length, it is impossible to walk the entire wall in a single visit. The most popular sections of the Great Wall for tourists are the "Badaling Great Wall" and the "Mutianyu Great Wall."

When visiting Beijing, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Great Wall, one of the most famous tourist attractions not just in Beijing but in all of China. It’s the perfect place to experience China’s 4,000-year history.

29. Badaling Great Wall

The "Badaling Great Wall" is the most famous and heavily visited section of the Great Wall. It is well-preserved and popular among tourists due to its proximity to Beijing, making it easily accessible.

The northern side of Badaling Great Wall is known as the "Men’s Path" due to its steep incline, while the southern side, which has a gentler slope, is called the "Women’s Path."
For those concerned about the steepness of the path, there is a cable car available at Badaling Great Wall. Additionally, at the foot of the wall, there is a museum displaying artifacts and information about the Great Wall.

When visiting Beijing, be sure to explore the Badaling Great Wall, close to the city, where you can walk along the "Dragon’s Back" and experience the atmosphere of this iconic landmark.

30. Mutianyu Great Wall

The "Mutianyu Great Wall" is another well-preserved section of the Great Wall, similar to the Badaling Great Wall, and is also conveniently located near Beijing, making it a popular tourist destination.

One of the attractions of Mutianyu Great Wall is that you can choose your route. The eastern path is steeper, but the views are stunning, making it a popular choice. For visitors who may find the steep climb challenging, a cable car is available for the ascent, and a toboggan is offered for the descent, allowing you to enjoy the views without too much exertion.

In contrast, the western route is less steep and easier to walk. Compared to the Badaling Great Wall, Mutianyu has fewer tourists, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy the scenery at a more leisurely pace. Day tours from Beijing to Mutianyu Great Wall are also available.

31. Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall

Located about 60 kilometers north of central Beijing, "Huanghuacheng Great Wall" is a famous tourist spot known as the "Water Great Wall." The wall appears as if it’s submerged in water, hence its nickname "Water Great Wall." However, it wasn’t originally underwater; the current scenery resulted from the construction of a dam, which divided the wall.

What makes Huanghuacheng Great Wall unique is that it has remained untouched, unlike Badaling and Mutianyu. The wall retains its original form, and visitors can also see ancient watchtowers and checkpoints preserved in their original state!

Another highlight of Huanghuacheng Great Wall is the Ming Dynasty chestnut orchards. Because the area hasn’t been heavily commercialized, it’s a hidden gem. Huanghuacheng offers a rare connection between mountains and water, and visiting this part of the Great Wall may become one of your most memorable experiences in Beijing.

32. Juyongguan Great Wall

Located relatively close to Beijing, the "Juyongguan Great Wall" is a tourist spot situated in a gorge along the way to the more popular Badaling section. The Juyongguan Great Wall was first built during the Spring and Autumn period and was later renovated during the Ming Dynasty. Known for its strong fortifications, Juyongguan was considered an impregnable fortress and the last defense line to protect Beijing.

Passing through the gate, you’ll find the ruins of a white marble Lama tower called "Yuntai." There were once multiple pagodas here, but now only the base remains. From the top of the incline, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, and you can also explore nearby residential areas and temples.

The Juyongguan Great Wall is one of the more popular sections of the Great Wall, located close to Beijing and on the way to Badaling. It was constructed during the Spring and Autumn period and later renovated during the Ming Dynasty. Its robust defenses earned it the reputation of being an impregnable fortress, serving as the last line of defense for Beijing.

After passing through the gate, you’ll find the ruins of a white marble Lama tower called "Yuntai." While several pagodas once stood here, only the base remains today.
Climbing up the hill rewards visitors with beautiful views, and you can explore nearby villages and temples, making it a great spot to experience both history and nature.

33. Panjiayuan Antique Market (Panjiayuan Flea Market)

The Panjiayuan Antique Market (Panjiayuan Flea Market) is one of the largest antique markets not only in Beijing but also in all of China. It is a famous tourist destination, covering an area of about 50,000 square meters with over 4,000 stalls. The market is always bustling with tourists and locals alike.

Originally a flea market where nearby residents would sell unwanted goods, Panjiayuan has grown to its current size. Here, you can find local handicrafts and rare folk art from various ethnic minorities, making it a must-visit spot for collectors.

Panjiayuan Antique Market offers a wide variety of unique antiques, making it the perfect place to buy unusual Beijing souvenirs. The market is open year-round, so you can visit whenever it fits into your schedule.

34. Chairman Mao Memorial Hall

"Chairman Mao Memorial Hall" was built in 1977, a year after the death of Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern China, under the direction of his successor, Hua Guofeng. The hall, which enshrines Mao, is a massive structure covering an area of about 57,000 square meters and standing 33.6 meters tall. It is one of the most famous tourist spots in Beijing.

The main feature of Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is its strict security and limited visiting time. Visitors must leave all belongings except their wallet and passport, and there are two security checks. Even inside, stopping or slowing down while viewing is strictly prohibited.

Not only locals from Beijing but also tourists from all over China come to visit, making it a place that always has long lines. It's recommended to visit in the morning and allow plenty of time.

35. Silk Street (Xiushui Street)

"Silk Street," known as "Xiushui Street" in Chinese, is one of the most famous markets in Beijing and all of China. It has over 400 shops selling everything from fashion and jewelry to accessories, making it a popular tourist spot.

Silk Street is always bustling with tourists, and basic communication in Japanese or English is possible, which is a plus for foreign visitors. The market also sells art, folk crafts, and other goods, making it a great place to buy Beijing souvenirs. Since it’s located inside a large shopping mall-like building, shopping is comfortable even on rainy days. Silk Street is open year-round, so you can visit anytime.

Within walking distance of Silk Street is Ritan Park, one of Beijing’s five ancient altar sites, which is also worth visiting. In addition to its beautiful landscape, the park offers attractions for children, making it a popular spot for families.

36. Beijing Grand View Garden

The "Beijing Grand View Garden" is a popular tourist spot for fans of "Dream of the Red Chamber", one of China's four great classical novels. This garden was designed to replicate the fictional Chinese garden featured in the novel. Moreover, the Grand View Garden has served as a filming location for various dramas and movies based on "Dream of the Red Chamber," drawing significant attention.

What makes the Grand View Garden truly special is its meticulous recreation of the buildings, furniture, decorations, and plant arrangements described in the novel. One of the most popular attractions is the luxurious Yihongyuan residence, the home of the novel's protagonist, which has been faithfully reproduced.

Interestingly, the Grand View Garden has been selected as one of the "New Sixteen Scenic Spots of Beijing" and among the "Top Ten Buildings of the Capital in the 1980s." If you plan to visit, reading "Dream of the Red Chamber" beforehand will make your experience at the Grand View Garden even more enjoyable.

37. Capital Museum

The "Capital Museum" in Beijing, which opened in 2006, is a large museum with a total area of approximately 200,000 square meters. It houses over 250,000 cultural relics, including bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and stone carvings, making it a popular tourist destination in Beijing.

The museum's main attractions are its vast size and the sheer number of exhibits, which can take more than half a day to fully explore. The quality and quantity of exhibits related to old Beijing and folk crafts are among the best in the city. Visitors can marvel at the treasures representing 4,000 years of Chinese history and culture. There is even a stage for Beijing opera performances on the top floor.

Additionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions from time to time. It is recommended to check the website for schedules before your visit. Since the museum sometimes enforces entry restrictions due to crowding, making a reservation in advance is advisable for a smooth experience.

◎Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, offers a wide array of fascinating tourist spots. Whether you are interested in history, art, or nature, Beijing has something for everyone. The scale of Beijing's attractions is grand, and visitors are sure to be overwhelmed by their magnificence. If you plan to travel to Beijing in the future, consider these tourist spots to help create a schedule that fits your interests and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

A Lineup of World-Famous Landmarks! 37 Recommended Tourist Spots in Beijing