Hidden Gems in Beijing China

Hidden Gems in Beijing, China

Beijing, the capital city of China, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. While many tourists flock to the famous landmarks like the Great Wall and Forbidden City, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are some of the best-kept secrets in Beijing that you won’t want to miss:

Hutongs: The Old Alleys of Beijing

  • Location: Throughout the city, but particularly in the Dongcheng and Xicheng districts
  • What to Expect: Wander through the narrow, winding alleys of old Beijing, discovering hidden temples, courtyard houses, and local shops selling everything from handmade crafts to traditional snacks.

Lama Temple’s Street Food Night Market

  • Location: Wudaokou, Haidian District
  • What to Expect: This bustling night market offers a wide variety of street food, from traditional Beijing dishes like jiaozi (dumplings) and zhajiangmian (noodles with fermented soybean sauce) to modern twists like Korean BBQ tacos. Come hungry and be prepared to try new things!

The Summer Palace’s Hidden Pavilions

  • Location: Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District
  • What to Expect: While many visitors flock to the Summer Palace’s main attractions, there are several hidden pavilions and gardens that offer a peaceful retreat from the crowds. Look for the Baoyun Pavilion, the Wenchang Pavilion, and the Suzhou Street area.

The Museum of Urban Planning

  • Location: 23 Qianmen East Street, Chongwen District
  • What to Expect: This quirky museum showcases Beijing’s urban planning history, with exhibits on everything from ancient city walls to modern skyscrapers. The building itself is a beautiful example of modern Chinese architecture.

The Liulichang Cultural Street

  • Location: 9 Liulichang East Street, Xuanwu District
  • What to Expect: This charming street is lined with traditional courtyard houses, antique shops, and teahouses. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or simply soak up the atmosphere.

The Beijing Botanical Garden

  • Location: 10 W Beishuan Road, Haidian District
  • What to Expect: This peaceful oasis in the heart of the city is home to over 3,000 species of plants and flowers. Take a stroll through the gardens, visit the beautiful glass conservatory, or attend one of the many cultural events held here throughout the year.

The Drum Tower’s Sunset Views

  • Location: 9 Gulou East Street, Dongcheng District
  • What to Expect: For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Drum Tower just before sunset. The tower itself is a beautiful example of traditional Chinese architecture, and the views from the top are simply stunning.

The Wudaokou Lakeside

  • Location: Wudaokou, Haidian District
  • What to Expect: This scenic lakeside area is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Take a stroll around the lake, rent a bike or boat, or simply sit back and enjoy the views.

Getting Around Beijing

While many of these hidden gems are accessible by public transportation, consider hiring a private car or driver for the day to make the most of your time in Beijing. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing to get around the city.

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: While many Beijingers speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic Chinese phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xiè xiè), and “excuse me” (duì bù qǐ).
  • Currency: The Chinese yuan (RMB) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices, or use ATMs to withdraw cash.
  • Weather: Beijing’s climate is notoriously dry, so be sure to pack moisturizer and stay hydrated. Summer can be very hot, while winter can be extremely cold.

With these hidden gems on your radar, you’re ready to experience the real Beijing – beyond the tourist traps and into the heart of this vibrant, fascinating city. Happy travels!