Traditional Chinese music – long play

Welcome to Beijing! Discover the vibrant capital city of China, where ancient history meets modernity. Beijing, with its rich heritage, iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and bustling streets, promises an unforgettable journey. About Beijing Beijing, also known as Peking, is the political, cultural, and educational center of China. As one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations, Beijing has been the heart of Chinese history for centuries. Key features of Beijing include its historic hutongs (narrow alleys), ancient palaces, and temples alongside modern skyscrapers and shopping malls. The city is renowned for its role in Chinese history, serving as the capital of several dynasties. Top Attractions Forbidden City (Palace Museum): Explore the largest imperial palace complex in the world, with over 9,000 rooms filled with treasures and historical artifacts. Great Wall of China: Visit iconic sections like Badaling, Mutianyu, or Jinshanling for stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Tiananmen Square: Discover the heart of Beijing and witness the monumental Tiananmen Gate, Chairman Mao's Mausoleum, and the National Museum of China. Temple of Heaven: Experience the spiritual ambiance of this ancient temple complex where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Summer Palace: Wander through lush gardens, pavilions, and Kunming Lake at this UNESCO-listed royal retreat. Hutong Tour: Take a rickshaw ride through traditional hutongs to see local life and visit courtyard homes. 798 Art District: Explore Beijing's contemporary art scene in a former factory complex filled with galleries, studios, and cafes. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple): Admire the impressive Tibetan-style architecture and giant Buddha statue at this active Buddhist temple. National Museum of China: Learn about Chinese history, art, and culture through extensive exhibitions. Culture and History Beijing is steeped in cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into China's ancient traditions and customs. Peking Opera: Attend a live performance of this traditional art form known for its colorful costumes, music, and storytelling. Chinese Tea Culture: Visit tea houses to sample different teas and participate in tea ceremonies. Imperial Architecture: Marvel at the architectural marvels of the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Temple of Heaven. Traditional Festivals: Experience festive celebrations during Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival. Beijing Cuisine: Indulge in local specialties such as Peking duck, hotpot, dumplings, and street food delicacies. Dining in Beijing Beijing offers a diverse culinary landscape, from gourmet dining to street-side snacks. Peking Duck: Savor the crispy-skinned duck at renowned restaurants like Quanjude or Da Dong. Street Food: Explore Wangfujing Snack Street for a variety of local snacks, skewers, and sweets. Hutong Restaurants: Dine in historic courtyard homes serving homestyle Beijing cuisine. Hotpot: Enjoy interactive dining with a bubbling pot of broth and fresh ingredients. Dumplings and Noodles: Try handmade jiaozi (dumplings) and la mian (hand-pulled noodles) in bustling noodle shops. Teahouses: Relax in traditional teahouses and sample regional teas paired with snacks. Shopping in Beijing Discover unique souvenirs, antiques, and modern goods in Beijing's vibrant shopping districts. Silk Market: Bargain for silk products, clothing, and accessories at this bustling market. Wangfujing Street: Shop for international brands, local goods, and Beijing-style snacks. Panjiayuan Antique Market: Browse through a vast array of antiques, ceramics, and curios. Hongqiao Pearl Market: Find pearls, jewelry, and electronics at competitive prices. Dashilar Street: Explore historic Dashilar alley for traditional handicrafts and nostalgic items. Practical Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases; use translation apps for communication. Currency: Use Chinese Yuan (CNY); major credit cards accepted in tourist areas. Transportation: Navigate the city with the extensive subway system, buses, taxis, and ridesharing apps. Accommodation: Choose from luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, or budget-friendly hostels. Etiquette: Respect local customs, such as using both hands to receive items and addressing people with courtesy. Safety: Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas; keep valuables secure. Internet Access: Purchase a local SIM card for mobile data; free Wi-Fi available in many public places. Health and Hygiene: Carry bottled water and practice good hygiene; be aware of air quality during winter. Enjoy Your Journey in Beijing! Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, rich history, and captivating experiences that Beijing has to offer. Whether you're exploring ancient landmarks or indulging in local cuisine, Beijing promises an unforgettable journey that will leave lasting memories.

With Ben Norton and Li JingJing ...

With Wei's Travel ...

AnHui province.

Explore the local sights and dishes with four lively Chinese girls from Singapore ...

With Heretic1988 ... On the ongoing restoration efforts ... We do not recommend trying to hike here, because of the significant dangers involved, but enjoy the beautiful aerial film, and here's some information about the location. From the filmmaker : "Aerial photography of JianKou Great Wall, West Line-East Line (from Jiuyan Building in the west to Zhenbei Building in the east) is a complete record of all important nodes. It was like witnessing a miracle for the first time. The slender white lines of the white boulders whispered silently on the top of the towering peak, looking up at the huge city wall in front of them, and overlooking the steep curve that leaped up the ridge and spread endlessly, and the wind blew through the masonry. Passing through the gate of the enemy building, a piece of history pushes the dust under your feet to the legend of the ghostly craftsmanship on the mountain at the end of the line of sight, staggering forward, unable to tolerate half a moment of hesitation, faith is as strong as a rock, and it grows wildly between the cliffs, using humble courage to tighten Every stone crevice climbed cautiously, listening to a soul-stirring long song with a startled mind." Visitor Guide to JianKou Wild Great Wall of China, BeiJing Getting There Location: JianKou is a section of the Great Wall of China located in the Huairou District, about 73 kilometers north of BeiJing. By Public Transport: Take bus 916 or 936 from Dongzhimen Bus Station in BeiJing to Huairou, then transfer to a local minibus or hire a private car to Xizhazi Village, the starting point for hiking JianKou. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or hire a private car service from BeiJing. The drive takes about 2 hours. Hiking and Safety Tips Difficulty: The JianKou section is known for its steep and rugged terrain, making it suitable for experienced hikers. It is not recommended for beginners or those afraid of heights. Safety Gear: Wear sturdy hiking boots, and consider bringing gloves for climbing steep sections. A hiking stick can also be helpful. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip. Avoid hiking during rainy or snowy conditions, as the wall can become slippery and dangerous. Guides: Hiring a local guide is recommended for first-time visitors. Guides can provide valuable information about the trail and ensure your safety. Emergency Supplies: Carry plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged mobile phone. There are no facilities along the trail. Main Attractions Notable Sections and Towers The "Zhengbeilou" Watchtower: One of the highest points on the JianKou section, offering panoramic views of the Great Wall snaking through the mountains. This is a popular spot for photography. The "Ox Horn Edge" (Niujiaobian): A dramatic and steep section of the wall that looks like the shape of an ox horn. It is challenging to climb but rewards hikers with spectacular views. The "Sky Stairs" (Tianti): A nearly vertical section of steps that test the courage and stamina of hikers. This is one of the most thrilling parts of the JianKou hike. Natural Scenery Mountain Views: The JianKou section offers stunning views of lush mountains and valleys, especially during spring and autumn when the foliage is at its most vibrant. Wildflowers: In spring, the hillsides are covered with wildflowers, adding a burst of color to the rugged landscape. Photography: JianKou is a favorite spot for photographers due to its dramatic scenery and the wild, unrestored state of the wall. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful times for capturing photos. Nearby Attractions Mutianyu Great Wall: Located close to JianKou, the Mutianyu section is more restored and accessible, making it a good option for those who want a less strenuous hike. Beijing Huairou Scenic Area: Explore the scenic beauty of Huairou District, including rivers, mountains, and other historical sites. Dining and Accommodation While there are no dining facilities on the JianKou Great Wall itself, nearby villages and towns offer a variety of options: Local Restaurants: Enjoy traditional Chinese meals in local restaurants in Xizhazi Village and Huairou town. Dishes often feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Farm Stays: Experience rural life by staying in a local farmhouse. Many farm stays offer home-cooked meals and comfortable accommodations. Guesthouses: There are several guesthouses in the area, providing basic but comfortable lodging. Book in advance, especially during peak hiking seasons. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to hike JianKou are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Permits and Restrictions: Check for any necessary permits or restrictions before your visit. Some areas of the wall may be closed for conservation or safety reasons. Leave No Trace: Help preserve the natural beauty and historical significance of JianKou by carrying out all your trash and minimizing your impact on the environment. Conclusion The JianKou Wild Great Wall of China offers an unforgettable hiking experience with its breathtaking scenery, challenging trails, and rich history. Whether you're an avid hiker or a history enthusiast, JianKou provides a unique and rewarding adventure in BeiJing. Plan your visit carefully, respect the natural and historical sites, and enjoy the beauty of this wild and stunning section of the Great Wall.

RiYue Bay, WanNing, 2012.