The two central districts are located within or just beyond the 2nd Ring Road. This is the location of the old walled city of Beijing and is where you will find most of the sights and also a good deal of sleeping, eating and drinking and entertainment options. The districts are:

$1°$2′$3″N $4°$5′$6″E

Central districts and inner suburbs

The next four districts are also fairly close to the centre, and highly urbanized. They are often referred to as the inner suburbs. Here you will find universities, Olympic venues, business and embassy areas, entertainment and bars, art districts, and parts of the Western Hills. The districts are:

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Rural Beijing and outer suburbs

The remaining ten districts are far from the centre.

Beijing (formerly transliterated "Peking") literally means Northern Capital, a role it has played many times in China's long history. Beijing's history dates back several thousand years but it first became notable in Chinese history after it was made the capital of the State of Yan under the name Yanjing. Yan was one of the major kingdoms of the Warring States Period, some 2,000 years ago. After the fall of Yan, during the later Han and Tang dynasties, the Beijing-area was a major prefecture of northern China.

In 938, Beijing was conquered by the Khitans and declared the capital of the Liao Dynasty. The Mongols seized the city in 1215. From 1264 Beijing served as the capital of a united China under Kublai Khan. His victorious Mongol forces renamed the city, Great Capital (大都). From there, Kublai and his descendants ruled their empire from a northern location closer to the Mongol homelands. During this period, the walled city was enlarged and many palaces and temples were built.

After the fall of the Mongol-founded Yuan dynasty in 1368, the capital was initially moved to Nanjing. However, in 1403 the 3rd Ming emperor, Zhu Di, also known as Emperor Yongle, moved it back to Beijing and gave the city its present name. The Ming period was Beijing's golden era. The Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and many other Beijing landmarks were built in this period. The capital developed into a huge city becoming the religious and cultural center of Asia.

In 1644, the Ming Dynasty was overthrown by the rebel leader Li Zicheng, though his rule would be short lived as he was quickly overthrown by the Manchus, who established China's last imperial line - the Qing. Despite the changing political climate, Beijing remained the capital. The Manchu imperial family moved into the Forbidden City and remained there until 1911. The Qing built both the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace. These served as summer retreats for the emperors and their entourages. During the 19th century, Western countries established foreign legations in the Qianmen area south of the Forbidden City. These came under siege during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900.

The Qing dynasty fell in 1911 and was replaced by the Republic of China, with Sun Yat-sen as its first president. In the chaotic first years of Republican China, Beijing was beset by fighting warlords. Following the Northern Expedition, the Kuomintang moved the capital to Nanjing in 1928, and renamed Beijing as Beiping (北平, literally "Northern Peace") to emphasize that it was no longer the capital. Beijing remained a center for education and culture throughout the Republican Era. The Kuomintang lost the city to the Communists in January 1949. After 6 months, the new government proclaimed a People's Republic with its capital at Beijing.

After over 20 years of isolation from Western countries, the visit of US President Richard Nixon in 1972 marked a significant turning point for China. Following this visit, Beijing experienced a spurt of international visitors, leading to the addition of Block D to the historic Beijing Hotel in 1974. By the end of 1978, the era of reform and opening-up had begun, transforming the city into a thriving economic hub. In the early 1980s, Beijing welcomed hundreds of thousands of foreign tourists annually, prompting the construction of the 1,000-room luxury Great Wall Hotel, completed in 1983-84, to accommodate the growing influx.

The 1980s introduced new modes of thought and lifestyle, with the emergence of supermarkets, fast food outlets, high-rise apartments and offices, as well as numerous luxury hotels. By the 2000s, Beijing had transformed into a global city with a stunning skyline of contemporary architectural wonders, further highlighted by its hosting of the 2008 Summer Olympics. Notably, Beijing remains the only city in the world to have hosted both the Summer Olympics (in 2008) and the Winter Olympics (in 2022).

In the post-pandemic era, China has shifted its focus from Western countries to strengthening relationships with the Global South. However, effort is still made to attract European tourism, introducing short-term visa-free policies in 2024 for several European and Southeast Asian countries.

Beijing is one of China's four municipalities (直辖市), cities that are not part of any province, and whose governments instead report directly to the central government. It is a vast city spanning 16,800 km² and divided into 16 districts, with significant distances between them. The city is bordered by Hebei province to the north, west, and south, and by Tianjin to the east. Beijing is a central part of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (Jing-Jin-Ji) regional development strategy, launched in 2014, which aims to create a mega region with enhanced connectivity. High-speed rail now allows travelers to reach Tianjin from Beijing in just 30 minutes, and the newly developed Xiong'an New Area in Hebei in 20 minutes. Xiong'an is envisioned as a techno and eco-utopia, designed to relieve some of Beijing's non-capital functions, though only time will prove whether Xiong'an will prosper or not.

The city used to be almost entirely made up of hutongs with narrow lanes and single story buildings. Now, many of the hutongs have given way to broad boulevards and modern buildings, contributing to an airy, sprawling feel, in sharp contrast to cities like Hong Kong and Shanghai. Beijing is the political centre of the country, with official buildings and embassy areas dominating the city and many historical buildings and sites especially within the 2nd Ring Road.

Beijingers take great pride in being citizens of the capital, given the city's historical, cultural, and political significance. This pride is sometimes described as 大北京主义 or "Great Beijing-ism," reflecting their distinct attitude toward people from other regions of China. Compared to people elsewhere in the country, Beijingers are often more interested in politics and more willing to discuss current events. They also tend to be mindful of maintaining face and frequently use humor to navigate social situations. Despite this, many Chinese from other provinces find Beijingers to be friendly and straightforward, especially when compared to people from Shanghai. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a fast-growing, developing metropolis with occasional horse-drawn wagons on city streets in the 2000s, into an affluent, middle-class society marked by rampant consumerism and trendy hangout spots by the 2020s.

Beijing has a monsoon-influenced continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The best time to visit is in September and October, during the "Golden Autumn" (金秋). Spring is the season for dust storms and is otherwise warm and dry. Summer can be oppressively hot and the tourist crowds tend to be the largest as well. Winter is cold and dry, with infrequent, but beautiful, snow. Temperatures can easily fall below −10 °C in winter and or just as readily rise above 35 °C in summer as well.

As of 2022, Beijing's permanent resident population stood at 21.84 million, with a registered population of 14.28 million. This difference is largely due to the difficulty many residents face in obtaining hukou, the household registration that grants access to better education and welfare services in the city. Beijing has been actively managing its population growth. The city has seen a continued decline in birth rates among its permanent residents in line with a wider national trend.

Explore books by foreigners who have experienced life in Beijing. This tradition started as early as the 13th century with the Travels of Marco Polo, where he gives an account of the layout of the city and its people during the time of Kublai Khan.

In the 1990s, two Peace Corps volunteers went on to write books about Beijing. The Last Days of Old Beijing: Life in the Vanishing Backstreets of a City Transformed by Michael Meyer (2008) offers an account of life in one of Beijing's remaining hutong neighborhoods, blending personal experiences with the city's modern architectural history. Peter Hessler, a writer for the New Yorker in Beijing during the 2000s, wrote Oracle Bones (2006), exploring the lives of ordinary people in China while documenting the country's transformation.

For a historical perspective, Peking Picnic by Ann Bridge, a bestseller from the 1930s, provides a glimpse into the city and expat life through the eyes of a British diplomat's wife. Other significant works include Sir Harold Acton’s Peonies and Ponies (1941), Sir Reginald Fleming Johnston’s Twilight in the Forbidden City (1934), and Juliet Bredon’s Peking - A Historical and Intimate Description of Its Chief Places of Interest (1922), written by an Englishwoman who grew up and lived in Beijing until 1924.

See also: China#Get in

Some nationalities may enter China visa-free for specific durations. In 2024, new visa rules extended visa-free entry to citizens from a large number of countries for stays up to 15 days. Certain cities also allow transit without a visa for up to 144 hours, with specific onward travel requirements. Beijing participates in this program, enabling visitors to explore nearby areas like Tianjin and Hebei within the 144-hour limit. Travelers from 53 countries transiting to a third country may obtain a 144-hour visa waiver to visit Beijing, neighboring Tianjin, and Hebei. Entry and departure must be through Beijing, Tianjin, or Shijiazhuang airports, or via Tianjin and Qinhuangdao sea ports. At immigration, visitors must present an onward ticket to a country other than the one they arrived from, with Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan considered separate countries for this scheme.

Beijing (BJS  ^IATA for all airports) is served by two major international airports; Beijing Capital International Airport is older and larger of the two, while Beijing Daxing International Airport is a newer airport opened in September 2019. Eventually, the plan is for Star Alliance carriers to serve Capital, and for Skyteam and OneWorld carriers to serve Daxing. Nanyuan Airport, which used to serve China United Airlines, has been closed to civilian air traffic, with all its civilian flights having been taken over by Daxing.

• 40.08116.5844441 Beijing Capital International Airport (北京首都国际机场 Běijīng Shǒudū Guójì Jīchǎng PEK ^IATA). Beijing's main airport is located 26 km northeast of the city center. It serves numerous domestic and international destinations and is the primary hub for Air China. The most convenient way to reach downtown is by taking the Airport Express subway line with a fare of ¥25. Trains operate every 10-15 minutes between 06:30 and 23:00, departing from Terminal 2 and stopping at Sanyuanqiao on Subway Line  10 , Dongzhimen on Line  2 , and Beixinqiao on Line  5  (the Beixinqiao section opened on 31 Dec 2021, and some maps may not yet reflect this). The journey to the city takes 25 minutes, after which you'll need to purchase a separate ticket for the Subway. Outbound trains reach Terminal 3 in 25 minutes, and Terminal 2 ten minutes after that. From Terminal 1, it's an 8-minute walk to Terminal 2. (updated Feb 2022)

• 39.509167116.4105562 Beijing Daxing International Airport (北京大兴国际机场 Běijīng Dàxīng Guójì Jīchǎng, PKX ^IATA), ☏ +86-010-96158. Shaped like a phoenix—or perhaps a starfish—this airport aims to handle 100 million passengers annually as a major international hub. Designed for efficiency, it features automated check-in with facial recognition, and travelers can walk from security to the farthest gates within eight minutes. The airport is accessible via the Daxing Airport Express, which connects to the Beijing Subway's outer loop line  10  at Caoqiao. Tickets cost ¥35, and machines require ID (non-Chinese passports are not accepted), so purchasing a ticket from a human cashier is the easiest option for new arrivals. The Beijing–Xiong'an high-speed intercity railway links Daxing Airport to Beijing West Railway Station, which offers additional subway connections and serves as a gateway to the high-speed rail network. By the end of 2024, the Huairou–Daxing Airport intercity railway will open, providing another high-speed rail connection, eventually extending to Capital Airport. (updated Sep 2023)

See also: Trans-Siberian Railway

The principal stations of Beijing are Central, West and South.

• 39.902222116.4211113 Beijing Railway Station (北京站 Běijīng Zhàn). In the heart of the city, served by Subway Line  2 . Destinations include Changchun, Chengde, Dalian, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Harbin, Hefei, Jilin, Nanjing, Qiqihar, Shanghai, Shenyang, Suzhou, Tianjin, and Yangzhou. High speed trains to the Northeast leave from this station, plus conventional trains to Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, to Russia and to North Korea.  

Public transport at this station:

• Subway line  2 . The subway entrance can be seen as soon as you get out of the mainline station.
• Taxis may be expensive and slow.
• Buses: many run to or alongside the station. The bus stops are Beijing Railway Station East (北京站东 Beijingzhandong) and Beijing Railway Station (北京站 Beijingzhan). Don't get off at Beijing Railway Station Crossing West or East (北京站口东/西), which are some distance from the station.

• 39.89347116.315254 Beijing West Railway Station (北京西站 Běijīng Xīzhàn). This is nowadays the main station for high speed trains across China, and also has conventional trains. Destinations include Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Datong, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Guilin, Guiyang, Hefei, Hohhot, Hong Kong (West Kowloon station), Kunming, Lanzhou, Lhasa, Nanning, Ningbo, Qinhuangdao, Sanya, Shenzhen, Taiyuan, Urumqi, Wuhan, Xi'an, and Xiamen. The twice-weekly through-carriage from Hanoi in Vietnam arrives here, though it's quicker to change in Nanning; high speed trains don't yet cross any international borders. (updated Dec 2019)

Public transport at West station:

• Subway lines  7  and  9 .
• Taxis: there is an underground taxi rank, which usually has at least a ten minute queue. Taxis may be expensive, especially if you have that tourist stench about you. Inevitably a tout will offer to take you out of the queue for an agreed price, but this will result in a significantly higher fare.
• Buses: There is an immense amount of packed public buses that reach most destinations around downtown Beijing - however this can be difficult to navigate. These leave from several locations including the south square of the train station, west of the train station (there is a largish bus station here) and north of the station on Lianhuachi E. Road. If you are desperate to get on the public bus, there is a large sign indicating the routes close to the bus stops on the south side (the side closer to the station) of Lianhuachi E. Road.

• 39.86342116.372815 Beijing South Railway Station (北京南站 Běijīng Nánzhàn). This station is used only by high-speed trains. It offers 70 high-speed services every day to Tianjin, Tanggu, Jinan, Qingdao, Shanghai, Hangzhou and Fuzhou. There are also a few services from Beijing South to northeastern China as well as Xiamen. Served by subway Lines  4  and  14  and public buses. (updated Mar 2018)

Beijing has several lesser-known high-speed rail stations that are less crowded and are connected to limited destinations.

In Haidian District, Beijing North Railway Station (北京北站) serves the Beijing-Zhangjiakou High-Speed Railway, with routes to Hohhot, Baotou, and Datong. The station is also the starting point for the  BCR Huaimi  Line and is conveniently located adjacent to Xizhimen subway station. Further north, Qinghe Railway Station (清河站) handles some high-speed trains to Chongli and Hohhot. It also stops at the Badaling section of the Great Wall. The station connects to subway lines  13  and  Changping , as well as the  BCR Huaimi  Line. The west square of the station is accessible via several bus routes, including No. 521, No. 623, and No. 专139.

In Chaoyang District, Beijing East Railway Station (北京东站) primarily serves Chengde, Handan, and Ji County. The  BCR Sub-Central  line provides connecting services to Beijing and Beijing West Railway Station, as well as suburban areas like Tongzhou and Fangshan. Beijing Chaoyang Railway Station (北京朝阳站) caters to northeast-bound trains, with subway access planned for September 2024 and nearby bus connections. Nearby bus routes include No.413, which connects to  14  Dongfeng Beiqiao and  10  Liangma Qiao, as well as No.911, which connects to  6  Qingnian Lu.

In the northern suburb of Shunyi, Shunyi West Railway Station (顺义西站) is a small, less crowded station on the Beijing-Shenyang high-speed route, primarily accessible by taxi due to its distance from the city center.

Foreigners are allowed to rent vehicles while in China, although they will require a driving license issued by the People's Republic of China.

Also, you will need special permission (进京证) for driving a non-Beijing license vehicle into Beijing (anywhere within 6th Ring Road), which is valid for at most 7 days, and can be applied for at most 12 times. You can apply for the permit electronically, or at the checkpoints. It will be checked in security checkpoints along the city border, and you should place the permit at the lower-left corner of the front windshield of your vehicle. Expect some queues and jams at these checkpoints.

Non-Beijing licensed motorcycles are totally forbidden from entering any roads within the 6th Ring Road.

As a tourist, you're unlikely to use inter-province buses since China's extensive and affordable high-speed rail system covers most destinations. Cost differences won't matter even to backpackers on a budget. However, there are still some places where a long-distance bus is necessary to travel between Beijing and other regions. For instance, the Eastern Qing Tombs near the small city of Zunhua lack a high-speed rail station, and the grasslands in far northern Hebei have no train stations, making buses the only option.

There are nine inter-province bus stations listed by Beijing Tourism. Two of these are located at the airports. Daxing Airport Station (大兴机场长途汽车站) primarily serves routes to Tianjin, Baoding, Tangshan, and Langfang. Similarly, Capital Airport Station (首都机场长途汽车站) offers routes to Tianjin, Tanggu, Qinhuangdao, Baoding, Tangshan, Langfang, and Cangzhou.

Other bus stations are spread across different parts of the city. The Liuliqiao Passenger Transport Hub (六里桥长途客运站) is a major transportation center in Beijing, facilitating bus services to various provinces and serving as the main hub for long-distance buses, including those to the grasslands of Hebei. Bawangfen Long-distance Passenger Terminal (八王坟长途客运站) is another key hub, with buses traveling to destinations such as Tianjin, Hebei, Shandong, Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Jiangsu, and Inner Mongolia. Lianhuachi Station (莲花池长途客运站) connects travelers to several provinces, including Shandong, Henan, Hebei, Jiangsu, Shanxi, Shaanxi, and Hubei, offering a wide range of long-distance bus services. Sihui Station (四惠长途汽车站) primarily offers bus services to Northeast China, Hebei, Tianjin, and parts of southern China, including the Eastern Qing Tombs. Xinfadi Station (新发地长途客运站) provides connections to Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Anhui, Jiangsu, Hubei, and Inner Mongolia. Yongdingmen Station (永定门长途汽车站) covers a wide range of destinations, including Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Tianjin, Shandong, Shanxi, Henan, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui, and Shaanxi. Finally, the Zhaogongkou Passenger Terminal (赵公口长途客运站) offers routes to Tianjin, Shanghai, Shandong, and Shanxi.

See also: Cycling in China

Long-distance cyclist-tourists will find National Road 109 is a pleasant way to enter or leave Beijing, though lots of work. It immediately enters steep hills on the edge of the city, but sees little traffic, is well maintained and passes though lovely landscape of farmland and forests. It's remarkable how close to Beijing you are, and how far it feels.

The Beijing Subway is an extensive and efficient way to travel across Beijing with 27 lines and 490 stations covering an impressive 836 km (519 mi). In December 2023, it surpassed the Shanghai Metro to become the world's longest metro system, spanning 12 districts of Beijing and extending into Langfang in Hebei province. The network’s grid-like design and bilingual signage make it surprisingly easy to navigate, especially given its size. Operating hours are from around 05:00 to 22:30, with specific times posted at station entrances.

Subway entrances are easy to spot, marked with a large blue "G" and smaller "B" inside it. Fares range from ¥3 to ¥10, with the Capital Airport Express costing ¥25 and the Daxing Airport Express between ¥10 and ¥35. Tickets are valid only on the day of purchase from the station where they were issued, so keep your ticket handy for both entry and exit.

Most stations have ticket machines with English instructions, though some stations, like Tian’anmen East, require a Chinese ID or a Foreigner's Permanent Resident ID Card for machine transactions. Other travelers can buy tickets at manned counters found at each station, though not every entrance/exit is staffed. Alternatively, you can purchase tickets using the smartphone app for the Beijing Transportation Card. Frequent travelers may find a Beijing Transportation Card more convenient; it allows quick tap access at turnstiles and can be refunded at major stations like Xizhimen and Haidianhuangzhuang.

Due to Beijing’s high population, rush hours can be crowded, especially on lines 1, 4, 10, and 13. Avoid peak times if possible, and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Each station has X-ray security checks for bags, and passengers carrying liquids may be asked to drink a sip in front of security staff.

Key subway lines:

•  1  – The innaugral line going east-west, passing through popular sites like the Forbidden City, Tian'anmen Square, Wangfujing, and Universal Resort.
•  2  – The loop line following the walls of the Ming Dynasty Inner City with stops at Yonghegong (Lama Temple) and Beijing Railway Station.
•  4  – A north-south route to the west of the Central Axis, linking the Old Summer Palace, Peking University, Renmin University, Beijing Zoo and Beijing South Railway Station.
•  5  – A north–south line located east of the Central Axis, with stops at Yonghegong (Lama Temple), the Temple of Heaven, and hutong areas in between.
•  6  – A west–east line through the city center, passing through the hutong pedestrian street of Nanluoguxiang and ending at the municipal administration center in Tongzhou.
•  8  – A north-south line through the city center, connecting attractions like the Olympic Stadium, Drum Tower, Nanluoguxiang, Wangfujing, Qianmen and Yongdingmen.
•  10  – A full circular line that loops around the city, providing easy access to various districts.

Airport and suburban lines:

• Capital Airport Express – Links the city center to Capital Airport.
• Daxing Airport Express – Links rest of subway system to Daxing Airport.
•  9  – Serves Fengtai district including Beijing West Railway Station.
•  13  – An elevated line serving the northern suburbs, popular with students and tech professionals in Wudaokou.

Transfers are mostly seamless, except for airport express lines, which require separate tickets.

See also: Cycling in China

Once known as a nation of bicycles, China saw private cars dominate the roads from the 1990s until the 2010s. However, the arrival of several dockless ridesharing bike companies, each with a distinctive color, has transformed Beijing back into a city of bikes. These bikes are now crowded everywhere and waiting at every subway station exit. The infrastructure from Beijing's days as the capital of the "Bicycle Kingdom" makes exploring the city by bike excellent. The city is flat, and all major streets have bike lanes. Bicycling is often faster than traveling by car, taxi, or bus due to traffic congestion in the motorized lanes.

Four-wheeled motorized traffic in Beijing usually observes traffic signals with the exception of making turns at red lights which is often done without slowing or deferring to pedestrians or bicyclists. Pedestrians, bicycles and all other vehicles (for example, motorized bicycles, mopeds and tricycles) generally do not observe traffic signals. Also, cars, trucks and buses do not defer to cyclists on the road so it is common for a vehicle to make a right turn from an inside lane across a bike lane with no concern for cyclists traveling in the bike lane. Sometimes a right-turning vehicle crossing a bike lane will sound its horn as a warning, but not always. Cyclists also need to be on the lookout for wrong-way traffic in the bike lanes, usually bicycles and tricycles but sometimes motor vehicles, too. Wrong-way traffic usually stays close to the curb so you move to the left to get by them, but not always. Bicycling Beijingers tend not to wear helmets, nor do they use lights at night. Few bikes even have rear reflectors. The moderate pace and sheer numbers of bicyclists in Beijing appear to make bike travel safer than it would be otherwise.

While you will see cyclists use many creative paths across wide, busy intersections in Beijing, the safest way for cyclists is to observe the traffic signals (there are often special signals for cyclists) and to make left turns in two steps as a pedestrian would. But if you spend any significant amount of time cycling in Beijing, you will probably start adopting more creative approaches. These can be learned by finding a local cyclist going your way and following him or her across the intersection.

Several professional bike rental companies, as well as major hotels and some hostels, rent bikes on an hourly basis. For those who need the security of a guide, a bike touring company like Baja Bikes Beijing would be a great way to go.

Beijing's bus system is especially convenient for short trips, particularly when your starting point or destination is not within walking distance of a subway station. Subway stations can often be over 1 km away from your desired location, and navigating the subway system can be time-consuming, especially when factoring in entering and exiting stations. Riding the bus also gives you the opportunity to view the city as you travel, unlike the subway, which keeps you underground.

Buses are also an economical choice, particularly for those on a tight budget. While typical subway fares range from ¥3 to ¥7, bus fares start at ¥2, with distance-based pricing. You can receive a 50% discount on bus fares if you use the Beijing Transportation Card instead of paying with cash. Note that tour lines and direct express lines have their own fare systems. When using the card, remember to touch in and out on most bus lines to ensure the correct fare is charged.

Beijing buses are equipped with air conditioning, heating during winter, TVs, scrolling screens displaying stops in Chinese (often with English), and broadcast systems announcing stops in both Chinese and English. However, bus staff typically speak little English, and bus stop signs are usually in Chinese. If you need assistance, you can call the English-speaking operators at the Beijing Public Transport Customer Helpline (96166).

Minibuses are very common in the countryside outside the urban areas. Privately operated, most trips cost less than ¥10 per short journey and only a little more for longer journeys.

Official taxis in Beijing are reliable and relatively inexpensive. If you don't speak Mandarin, it's advisable to have the Chinese characters for your destination ready in advance. Most people use ride-hailing apps like DiDi, accessible through the DiDi miniapp within Alipay, the preferred payment app for visitors, to call both official taxis and ridesharing services. You will likely only need to get into an official taxi directly from the airport or railway station taxi lines. While ridesharing taxis are available at these busy locations, it is often easier to wait in line for an official taxi due to the hectic nature of finding a ridesharing vehicle.

Avoiding scams and fakes

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To avoid being taken advantage of, it is a good idea to know the rough direction, cost, and distance of your destination. If the cab goes in the wrong direction for a long distance, verify the location with the taxi driver. For scamming drivers, that is usually enough for them to go back on the right track (without ever acknowledging that they were trying to cheat you). Honest drivers will explain why they are going that way. In addition, sometimes a cab driver might tell you an extravagant price to get somewhere and tell you the meter is broken.

Dishonest drivers may attempt to hand back counterfeit bills as change. When receiving large bills like ¥50 or ¥100, check the paper quality, watermark, and the imprint's clarity to ensure they're genuine. If a bill seems suspect, it's acceptable to refuse it and ask for another. Sometimes, taxi drivers may claim that your genuine bill is fake and discreetly swap it with a counterfeit one. Always keep an eye on your money, especially when handling larger denominations. To minimize your chances of being scammed, use a ride hailing app like DiDi to call a taxi.

There are several "makeshift taxis" running around Beijing including a seat fixed up to the back of an electric scooter. These guys will scam you big time if you don't negotiate a clear fare beforehand. Upon arriving your destination, for a 2-minute ride, the driver will demand ¥300 and will be very belligerent if you don't pay it.

Unofficial cabs hang out around tourist sights like the Great Wall and the Summer Palace. Pirate cabs will charge you a higher fee for the journey, unless you are a good bargainer, know where you are going, and know what the right fare should be.

See also: Driving in China

Driving in Beijing can be quite complicated with seemingly perpetual traffic jams. Many hotels rent cars that come with drivers for up to ¥1,000 per day. Public transport or taxis will get you to most of the main tourist sites and therefore renting a car is not often required at all.

Short visa holders (less than 3 months) can get a provisional driver's license at Beijing Capital International Airport or the transportation police stations in the city within minutes. You need to provide your passport as well as your foreign driver's license and do a small examination to confirm you don't have a physical or visual disability that affects driving. With a provisional license you can legally drive cars in China. Ask any information desk at the airport for directions.

You can find the counters of many car rental companies in the arrival hall of Terminal 2 in Beijing Capital Airport, although English is not usually spoken.

Car rental companies serving the Beijing Capital Airport include:

• China Auto Rental, Tel: +86 400 616 6666
• Avis also operates a car-rental service in Beijing

The daily rate of smaller, economical cars is about ¥200-300. You need to deposit around ¥3000 (possible by using CUP/VISA/MasterCard credit card).

20% of cars have to be off city centre roads on weekdays — you are affected on different days depending on the last digit of your number plate. These alternate every 13 weeks. The police have a right to fine you repeatedly if you are caught on the road when you should have left your car at home. If travelling to Tianjin by car, remember they operate the same system in tandem with Beijing's road rationing schedules. On weekends no such limits apply in either cities, which may give rise to worse jams during peak travel hours.

Vehicles without a licence registered in Beijing are subject to severe restrictions in the capital — most need a special permit to enter the part of town inside the 6th Ring Road, and for those which are granted this licence, it must be renewed nearly every week. You must have your passport / Chinese ID, driving licence and vehicle licence ("blue book", not larger registration certificate) with you at all times, especially when leaving or entering Beijing, as you will be checked by the police.

The Beijing City Rail is a suburban railway system for commuters and not the typical way by tourists to get around except for the S2 in spring. The gate closes 5 minutes before departure, so be prompt. You can't book tickets in advance for the S2, so purchase them at the station. Use the Beijing Transportation Card mobile app for other lines.

The lines are as follows:

 BCR S2 : The S2 line runs from Huangtudian station (near Huoying subway station on lines 8 and 13) to Yanqing. This line is an excellent option for reaching the northern suburbs, particularly during the morning and evening rush hours when the freeways are highly congested. All trains stop at Badaling station, where a free shuttle bus is available to take you to the Badaling Great Wall. Some trains also stop at Nankou station, located between Badaling and Huangtudian. This line is especially scenic during spring, making it a worthwhile choice for visiting the Great Wall. On Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, service extends to Kangzhuang or Shacheng. Fares range from ¥5 for one station to ¥6 for more than one on the main line, and ¥16 from Huangtudian to Kangzhuang or Shacheng. The S2 line is the only suburban railway where you can use a standard Beijing Transportation Card, which should have a minimum balance of ¥16. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds and secure a good seat. Trains can be crowded during the evening rush from the city or the morning rush into the city. The S2 line features a first-class car, a dining car with large windows, and standard class cars.

 BCR Sub-Central : This line runs from Liangxiang railway station (in Fangshan) to Qiaozhuang East railway station (in Tongzhou). All trains stop at Beijing West Railway Station, Beijing Railway Station, and Beijing East Station. While the line has fewer trains, it can be a smart way to travel through the city center, especially during peak hours when roads are busy, and buses and the metro are crowded. The trains are generally less crowded except for the section from Liangxiang to Beijing West.

 BCR Huaimi : The line runs from Beijing North station to Gubeikou in the northeastern suburbs, passing through Huairou town and Changping North station. All trains stop at Changping North Railway Station. However, only two pairs of trains operate to/from Gubeikou per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. An additional four pairs of trains are available between Beijing North and Huairou North. Fares are ¥9 to Huairou North and ¥12 to Gubeikou.

 BCR Tongmi : The Tongmi line starts at Tongzhou West railway station and has two branches. One branch goes to Miyun North railway station, with just one pair of trains: inbound (from Miyun) in the morning and outbound (to Miyun) in the evening. The other branch goes to Huairou North railway station, with one outbound train in the morning and one inbound in the afternoon. Maximum fares for either branch are ¥8.

The Beijing Transportation Card, commonly known as the Yikatong card, is a convenient way to pay for public transport in Beijing. The card can be obtained at subway stations in physical form or mobile version. When acquiring a physical card, a deposit of ¥20 is required. You can charge the card at subway stations, transit hubs, or service centers. It is worth noting that visitors with non-Chinese phone numbers have reported difficulties in getting the mini-app for the card to work within the Alipay payment app.

The card can be used mainly for:

• All buses operated by Beijing Public Transport, Bafangda buses, and Yvntong bus lines, with a 50% discount on fares.
• All subway lines, including the Xijiao tram line.
• Suburban railway line S2.

The Great Wall of China (长城 Chángchéng) is the must-see on any trip to Beijing and a destination worth visiting multiple times due to its vastness and the variety of views, landscapes, and hikes it offers. The Wall is located about an hour by train or 1½ hours by bus from the city (be aware of bus scams, as mentioned in the "Stay Safe" section below). For general information on the Great Wall, see Great Wall, and for details on specific sections, refer to Northeastern Beijing, Yanqing District, Huairou District, and Northern Suburbs.

The Badaling section is the most famous but also heavily restored and crowded. For a more enjoyable tourist experience, Mutianyu is recommended over Badaling; it offers similar restoration but with fewer crowds. Closer to the city center, about 60 km away in Changping District, is Juyongguan Pass, a well-known section of the Great Wall located in a deep gorge of the Taihang Mountains north of Beijing.

For those seeking less crowded areas, Jinshanling and Huanghuacheng are more challenging to reach by public transportation but offer stunning views of the wall away from the crowds. The distant Simatai section in the northeast can be combined with a night visit or an overnight stay at Gubei Watertown, a recreated historical village beside the wall.

The heart of Beijing is defined by the Central Axis, a historic north-south line that runs through the city's core, showcasing its rich heritage and urban planning. Originating during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) when Beijing, then known as Dadu, became the capital, the Central Axis was further developed in the Ming (1368–1644) and refined in the Qing Dynasty (1636–1912). The urban layout reflects the ideal capital city as prescribed in the ancient text Book of Diverse Crafts. In 2024, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site World Heritage Site under the title "Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital."

At the northern end of the Central Axis in the Gulou neighborhood stand the iconic Drum and Bell Towers, remnants of the medieval city that served as timekeeping centers during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.

Proceeding south along the axis, you reach the Forbidden City (故宫博物院), the most significant landmark along the Central Axis. This vast imperial palace complex served as the residence of emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture. Remarkably, it remained largely untouched during the Cultural Revolution, thanks to Premier Zhou Enlai's intervention.

Just south of the Forbidden City lies Tiananmen Square, located in the Dongcheng District. As the world's largest public square, it is a must-see destination surrounded by monumental buildings, including the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. The square also features the Monument to the People's Heroes and provides a grand entrance to the Forbidden City through the Tiananmen Gate.

Continuing further south is Qianmen, marking the boundary of the Ming Dynasty Inner City. Here, visitors can explore the bustling pedestrian areas of Qianmen Street and Dashilar Commercial Street (see the Do section below for more details). To the east of Qianmen, and not directly on the Central Axis, lies a 1.5-kilometer preserved section of the Ming Dynasty Inner City wall, now serving as a park. The axis then leads to the Temple of Heaven (天坛), an iconic symbol of Beijing. This magnificent temple complex, surrounded by a lively park, was where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer for a good harvest. Today, the park is a popular gathering place for locals who enjoy activities like tai chi, calligraphy, and tea drinking.

At the southern end of the Central Axis stands the Yongdingmen Gate, reconstructed in 2005. This gate once marked the boundary of the Ming Dynasty's Outer City.

Beijing's hutongs, its ancient alleyways, offer a glimpse into traditional architecture dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1266-1368). These narrow lanes are lined with buildings typically constructed in the traditional courtyard style known as (四合院 sìhéyuàn). Originally, many of these courtyard homes were occupied by aristocrats, but after the Communist takeover in 1949, they were displaced, and poorer families moved in.

Today, hutongs can still be found throughout the area within the 2nd Ring Road, though many had been demolished to make way for new buildings and wider roads. Despite this, some hutong areas, particularly near Qianmen and Houhai, remain popular with tourists. One of the most visited sections is Nanluoguxiang (南锣鼓巷), a historic lane from the Yuan Dynasty that stretches 786 meters long and 8 meters wide, which can become very crowded at peak times.

Beijing is home to numerous green oases that offer a refreshing escape from the city's bustling boulevards and narrow hutongs. These parks and natural spaces are beloved by locals for relaxation, sports, dancing, singing, and general recreation. Some of the best places to experience daily life in Beijing include the expansive Chaoyang Park (朝阳公园) and the more centrally located, compact Ritan Park (日坛公园), both in in the Chaoyang District.

In the central districts of Beijing are the most notable temple and park sites in the city. In the Dongcheng District, you’ll find the Yonghegong (Lama Temple) (雍和宫), one of China's most significant and beautiful temples, along with the nearby Confucius Temple (孔庙). Over in the Xicheng District, Zhongshan Park (中山公园) and Beihai Park (北海公园) are popular green spaces and part of the Central Axis, while the Beijing Zoo (北京动物园) is famous for its traditional landscaping and giant pandas.

The suburbs also offer attractions worth exploring. In the Haidian District, highlights include the majestic Summer Palace (颐和园), the ruins of the Old Summer Palace (圆明园), the scenic Fragrant Hills (香山), and the lush Beijing Botanical Garden (北京植物园). These sites are close to one another, making them convenient to visit in a single trip.

Further afield, Beijing has two lesser-visited UNESCO World Heritage sites that may not be particularly captivating. The Ming Tombs in Changping District feature three open tombs, but excavations have ceased since 1989 due to previous botched attempts. In Fangshan District, the Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian is notable for its archaeological discoveries, including early Homo erectus specimens; however, much of the original material was lost during the Japanese occupation in 1941, leaving only replicas on display. For a more interesting experience, consider visiting the Eastern Qing Tombs, which offer superior landscaping, although they are more challenging to access, as they are located in Zunhua in the neighboring province of Hebei.

For those spending an extended time in Beijing, consider popular day trips favored by locals. In rural Yanqing District, you can explore the often-overlooked Guyaju Caves, a fascinating complex of rock-carved dwellings believed to date back to the Tang Dynasty. Nearby, Longqing Gorge, known as the "Little Three Gorges" for its resemblance to the famous Three Gorges near Yichang, offers scenic views. In Fangshan District, you'll discover stunning natural caves formed by the region's karst landscape, some of which feature short boat trips through shallow waters inside the caves.

The museums in Beijing are generally not yet up to the standard seen in cities such as Paris, Rome, New York or even Taipei. However the city contains one of the largest and most well known museums in Asia, the Palace Museum also known as the Forbidden City. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. China's government is determined to change the backward perception of its museums and has invested heavily in their development. It has also made most of them (not the Forbidden City) free to visit. However, for some museums, tickets must be reserved three days in advance.

One of the most well-known museums in Beijing is the National Museum (国家博物馆) in Dongcheng District, which was renovated in 2011. The Military Museum (军事博物馆) in Haidian District has long been a favorite with domestic and foreign tourists. The Capital Museum (首都博物馆) in Xicheng District is a new high-profile museum with historical and art exhibitions. The China Aviation Museum (中国民航博物馆) located in the Beijing/Northern Suburbs is surprisingly good and hosts 200+ rare and unique Chinese (mostly Russian) aircraft. Finally, a number of restored former residences of famous Beijingers, especially in Xicheng District, give a good insight into daily life in former times.

The contemporary art scene in Beijing is thriving, with numerous artists showcasing and selling their work in galleries throughout the city. The most established and easily accessible area is the 798 Art District in Chaoyang District anchored by the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art. This district has a commerical atmosphere of mainstream galleries and luxury billboards dotting the area. Other notable art districts include the Caochangdi Art District in Chaoyang District and the Songzhuang Art Community in Tongzhou District. Yanjiao, outside of Beijing, is home to studios of young artists who had sought lower rents in Hebei province.

In contrast to the historical landmarks, Chaoyang District offers contemporary symbols of modern Beijing. The National Stadium (commonly known as the Bird's Nest) stands as an enduring symbol of the 2008 Olympic Games. Nearby, the striking CCTV Headquarters has become an icon of contemporary Beijing, surrounded by the city's skyline, which includes supertall structures like the China World Trade Center Tower 3, Tower 3B, and the China Zun.

The National Centre for the Performing Arts in Xicheng District offers a variety of performances including opera, music, and theatre. Even if you don't attend a performance, the egg shaped building itself is worth a visit. The exterior is made from a steel oval structure that includes over 18,000 titanium plates and 1,000 sheets of ultra-white glass.

The Beijing Opera is considered the most famous of all the traditional opera performed around China. This kind of opera is nothing like western opera with costumes, singing style, music and spectator reactions being distinctly Chinese. The plot is usually quite simple, so you might be able to understand some of what happens even if you do not understand the language. Some of the best places to watch Beijing Opera are found in Xicheng District including Huguang Huguang Theatre and Lao She Teahouse. There are also a number in Dongcheng District including Chang'an Grand Theatre.

Acrobatics shows are also worth a visit if you want to see some traditional Chinese entertainment. Some of the best shows are found in Tianqiao Acrobatics Theatre in Xicheng District and in Chaoyang Theatre in Chaoyang District.

Drama plays have had a slow start in Beijing and are still not as widespread as you might expect for a city like Beijing, and you will most likely not be able to find many Western plays. However, some good places for contemporary Chinese plays do exist including Capital Theatre in Dongcheng District and Century Theater in Chaoyang District.

Classical music has got a much stronger foothold in Beijing than drama plays. Some of the best places to go are the National Centre for the Performing Arts and the Century Theater both mentioned above as well as Beijing Concert Hall in Xicheng District.

Beijing offers many schools that provide Mandarin lessons for foreigners:

• LTL Mandarin School: Specializes in teaching Chinese through various programs, including small group classes, individual classes, and immersion. Students have the opportunity to live with Chinese homestay families, participate in full immersion trips to smaller cities around China, and study in small groups or one-on-one in the Central Business District.
• Hutong School Beijing: Located in Sanlitun, this school offers a wide range of Chinese courses, including intensive programs, HSK preparation, business Chinese, and classes for children. Both group and private classes are available, taught by experienced native teachers.
• That's Mandarin: Established in 2005, this school offers both short-term Chinese courses (starting from 2 weeks) and long-term courses, which are eligible for student visas.

Beijing is an excellent destination for gourmet tours and exploring the culture and traditions through food. Not only can you enjoy the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine, but you also have the opportunity to acquire new culinary skills, bringing home a piece of Chinese culture.

• Black Sesame Kitchen, 3 Black Sesame Hutong, Dongcheng District, blacksesamekitchenteam@gmail.com. Try your hand at creating a variety of Chinese dishes, from cold starters to famous noodles and dumplings. Classes are conducted in English, and you can also enjoy a fancy dinner with explanations of major flavors and the significance of different ingredients. Reservations are required. 
• Beijing Cookery, info@beijingcookingschool.com. Join a cooking class focused on Hutong cuisine, offering hands-on experiences in preparing traditional dishes. An optional market tour is available for an additional fee. 
• The Hutong, 1 Jiu Dao Wan Zhong Xiang Hutong, Dongcheng District (东城区九道湾中巷1号), info@thehutong.com. Located in a traditional courtyard home in downtown Beijing, The Hutong offers a variety of Chinese cultural programs. Visitors can attend market tours, cooking classes (both Chinese and international), tea tastings, and traditional Chinese medicine sessions. You can also enjoy private meals, events, or simply relax on the rooftop terrace with a view of authentic hutong culture. Chefs, guides, and teachers speak English, Chinese, Spanish, Dutch, and more by request. 

Beijing is the main centre of higher learning in China. Peking and Tsinghua Universities are the most prestigious universities in China, and also ranked among the best in the world. They attract top students from across China and globally as well. Most of the universities are clustered in Haidian District in the northwestern part of the city and nearly all of the universities in Beijing accept foreign students.

• Peking University (北京大学 Běijīng Dàxué). China's most prestigious general university. Colloquially known by its shortened name 北大 (Běidà). It hosts the Yenching Academy, which offers a highly competitive scholarship for international students to pursue a master's program in China Studies. 
• Tsinghua University (清华大学 Qīnghuá Dàxué). China's most prestigious university for technical subjects. It offers the Schwarzman Scholars program, a highly competitive scholarship for international students to study a one-year master's in Global Affairs, similar to Yenching but with greater global name recognition. 
• Peking Union College of Medicine. China's most prestigious medical school. 
• Renmin University of China. China's top university for humanities and social sciences including the nation's most prestigious law school. 
• China Agricultural University. Renowned for agricultural research. CAU offers Chinese government scholarships to citizens of African countries for the "Science and Technology Backyard", "Rural Vitalization," and "Simple Technology, Big Harvest" master's programs, focusing on agronomy and technology. 

One of Beijing's most famous streets for food is undoubtedly Guijie (簋街/鬼街). This vibrant street, located in the Dongcheng District, is a true haven for food lovers, offering a wide array of excellent cuisines. Stretching over a kilometer, Guijie is home to more than 150 eateries, with around 90% of its commercial spaces dedicated to dining.

As a global city, Beijing offers a rich variety of international restaurants, particularly in the Chaoyang District. The dining scene is centered around Sanlitun and stretches west to the Worker's Stadium, north to the diplomatic area, and south to the Central Business District. In this vibrant area, you can find a wide range of international options, including gourmet burger joints, sandwich shops, and taquerias. Beijing’s strong diplomatic ties to the Global South also bring unique offerings, such as chicken jollof rice from Ghana and BBQ from Pakistan. Within the Sanlitun subdistrict, Xingfucun Zhonglu, a small side street, and a short section of Xindong Lu, a larger main street perpendicular to Xingfucun, is home to the city's most westernized section of dining. Here, you'll find steakhouses, craft beer, bakeries, and coffee shops located close together. April Gourmet, a small grocery store selling imported Western foods, is also nearby. For a quick, cheap bite, Greek Freak, at the corner of Xingfucun and Xindong Lu, serves Greek gyros (36 yuan) and Hungarian goulash (42 yuan).

For a distinct international dining experience, visit Shenlu Jie, located north of Ritan Park, also in the Chaoyang District. This neighborhood, marked by Cyrillic signs, is lined with restaurants serving Central and West Asian cuisines and even features a Russian grocery store. One standout spot is Kavkaz, run by an Azerbaijani entrepreneur, which offers dishes from across the former Soviet Union and boasts the best sheesha in Beijing.

Peking duck (北京烤鸭 Bĕijīng kăoyā) is a famous Beijing speciality served at many restaurants, but there are quite a few restaurants dedicated to the art of roasting the perfect duck. Peking duck is served with thin pancakes, plum sauce (甜面酱 tiánmiàn jiàng), and slivers of scallions and cucumbers. You dip the duck in the sauce and roll it up in the pancake with a few slivers of scallions and/or cucumbers. The end result is a mouthwatering combination of the cool crunchiness of the cucumber, the sharpness of the scallions, and the rich flavours of the duck.The two best known restaurants are Dadong or Quanjude.

Beijing is also known for its mutton hotpot (涮羊肉 shuàn yáng ròu), which originally came from the Manchu people and emphasizes mutton over other meats. Like variations of hotpot (general name 火锅 huŏ guō) from elsewhere in China and Japan, hotpot is a cook-it-yourself affair in a steaming pot in the center of the table. Unlike Sichuan hotpot, mutton hotpot features a savory, non-spicy broth. If that's not exciting enough for you, you can also request a spicy broth (one that is flaming red, filled with peppers, and not for the weak!) To play it safe and satisfy everyone, you can request a yuan-yang (鸳鸯 yuānyáng) pot divided down the middle, with spicy broth on one side and regular broth on the other. Raw ingredients are purchased by the plate, including other types of meat and seafood, vegetables, mushrooms, noodles, and tofu, so it's also perfectly possible to have vegetarian hotpot. A dipping sauce, usually sesame, is served as well; you can add chilis, garlic, cilantro, etc., to customize your own sauce. While "raw" sounds dangerous, boiling the meat yourself is the best way to ensure that more risky meats like pork are fully cooked and free of germs. In the city center, hotpot can run as much as ¥40-50 per person, but on the outskirts it can be found for as little as ¥10-25. Low-budget types may reuse the spices or cooking broth from previous guests, although it has been boiling for several hours.

For those who have a sweet tooth or enjoys snacks, Beijing is a city with a lot more choices. Traditional snacks like "Lvdagun" (驴打滚 means "Donkey rolling in the muddle", made from rice and red beans) "Wandouhuang" (豌豆黄 means the yellow peas, made from yellow peas, soft) "Fulingbing" (茯苓饼 means poria cocos pancake or a fuling pancake, usually made from a mixture of the herbal plant and flour and stuffings) and so many other kinds.

Some of the cheapest and most delicious meals can be had on the streets. For a tourist street food experience, start at Wangfujing has a "snack street" selling such mundane fare like lamb, chicken, and beef as well as multiple styles of noodle dishes, such as Sichuan style rice noodles, but the brave can also sample silkworm, scorpion, and various organs all skewered on a stick and grilled to order.

Savory pancakes (煎饼果子 Jiānbĭng guŏzi) are one of the most popular street snacks, eaten from morning till night with most carts operating during the morning commute and then opening again at night for the after-club crowds and night-owls. This delicious pancake is cooked with an egg on a griddle, a fried dough crisp is added, and the whole thing is drizzled in scallions and a savory sauce. Hot sauce is optional. Diehard fans often go on a quest for the best cart in the city. Lamb kebabs (羊肉串儿 yángròu chuànr) and other kebabs are grilled on makeshift stands all around Beijing, from the late afternoon to late at night. A winter speciality, candied haw berries (冰糖葫芦 bīngtáng húlu) are dipped in molten sugar which is left to harden in the cold and sold on a stick. You can also find variations with oranges, grapes, strawberries, and bananas, or dipped in crumbled peanuts as well as sugar. This sweet snack can also sometimes be found in the spring and the summer, but the haw berries are often from last season's crop.

Beijing is not known for vegetarian fare, though there are vegetarian restaurants scattered across the city catering to devout Buddhists. The most renowned vegetarian restaurant is King's Joy (京兆尹), a fine dining experience of vegetarian dishes made with green, seasonal produce sourced from local organic farms. The restaurant is located at Wudaoying Hutong in the Dongcheng District. A budget veggie option with rave reviews is the 廷香小馆 (Lotus Restaurant), which is located in a hard to find building south of Sanlitun in Chaoyang District.

Tea, tea, and more tea! Beijing offers a variety of tea experiences, from simple shops in malls to stand-alone establishments. Whether you're in a bustling commercial center or a quieter neighborhood, always ask the price before ordering, or you might end up paying a premium for what could be the most expensive egg-sized cup of tea in the world. In particular, the Qianmen area south of Tiananmen Square is known for its tea houses, where you can experience different styles of tea ceremonies and tastings. However, be mindful that the quality and price can vary significantly. Some tea houses are genuine cultural experiences, while others are little more than tourist traps designed to milk you of your money (see the warning below about tea tasting scams).

There are teahouses around the historic Qianhai Hutong, offering a serene ambiance reminiscent of old wooden houses, with tea cups and bowls adorning the interior. You can enjoy a wide variety of teas, though be prepared for some steep prices—some teas can cost CNY200 or more. Ideal for couples and families.

Excellent coffee can be found in independent cafés scattered throughout the city.

Within the Second Ring Road in central Beijing, you'll find numerous hutong cafés tucked away in the alleyways. A notable area in the Dongcheng District is Dongsi North Road, a wide street lined with cafés. If you venture into the alleys branching off from the main road, you’ll discover hidden gems for coffee. As you walk north toward the Second Ring Road, you’ll come across Wudaoying Hutong, a long and narrow pedestrian street filled with small cafés dedicated to high-quality coffee, alongside trendy shops and restaurants. It's also the most relaxed pedestrian street in Beijing.

For a more scenic coffee experience, visit the hutongs surrounding Miaoying Temple in the Xicheng District. These cafés often have rooftop terraces offering stunning views of the 13th-century pagoda designed by a Nepalese architect. Strolling or circumabulating around the temple and through the winding hutong neighborhood paths, you’ll stumble upon charming spots for a coffee or a beer.

Baijiu (白酒 báijiǔ) is the quintessential Chinese spirit, typically distilled from grains such as sorghum. While there are many affordable options available, Maotai (茅台 Máotái) is considered the national liquor and is highly regarded. Prices for Maotai start at around ¥1,500. For a premium selection, visit the Maotai store at the Westin Beijing Financial Street, facing Wudinghou Street on the first floor. The store offers an extensive variety of Maotai, including the rare 6-liter Methuselah bottle of Maotai, priced at ¥48,800. Another top-tier baijiu is Wuliangye (五粮液), priced around ¥1,000, known for its smoother taste that might be more approachable for newcomers. For a taste of the typical swill, there is Erguotou (二锅头 Èrguōtóu), a strong and inexpensive baijiu, can be found at any convenience store in 500ml bottles with the red star brand.

When it comes to beer, popular choices include Tsingtao (青岛 Qīngdǎo) and Yanjing (燕京 Yànjīng), with the latter being Beijing’s own local mass produced brew. For craft beer enthusiasts, Great Leap Brewing (大跃) and Slowboat are notable local microbreweries. Great Leap has a unique location nestled in the hutongs near Gulou.

Most of Beijing's bars are located in one of the bar clusters around the city. In the beginning there was only one was Sanlitun, but many areas have emerged.

• Sanlitun in Chaoyang District historically and presently the centre of nightlife in Beijing.
• Workers Stadium in Chaoyang District and adjacent to Sanlitun; clubs line the east side of the stadium complex.
• Nanluoguxiang and surrounding hutongs in Dongcheng District located in the middle of the hutongs in the Gulou neighborhood, east of the Drum and Bell Towers; finding hard to locate bars in a maze of hutong alleys is one of the unique pleasures of nightlife in Beijing.
• Houhai in Xicheng District is a bar area located on Houhai Lake, west of the Bell and Drum Towers; once thriving but popularity has faded since the 2000s.
• West Gate of Chaoyang Park in Chaoyang District is a small bar area.
• Ladies' Street in Chaoyang District is a small bar area near the third embassy area.
• Wudaokou in Haidian District is the hangout spot for foreign and local university students; the bar street is anchored by a 7-11 where drinkers mill about outside.
• Dashanzi in Chaoyang District, Beijing's trendy art zone; this old warehouse and factory district has been taken over by art galleries, art shops and bars.

Free emergency telephone numbers:

• Police: 110.
• Fire alarm: 119.
• Medical care: 120.

Remember these three telephone numbers; they are valid in almost every part of China.

Beijing, despite its size, is a very safe city, with violent crime being incredibly rare. It is generally safe for women to walk alone at night, and there is a significant police presence in the city center.

Tourists visiting Beijing should be vigilant about scams and petty crime, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Tiananmen Square and routes to the Great Wall. Pickpocketing can happen in crowded places, so it is important to keep your belongings secure and within sight at all times. Taxi-related scams are particularly prevalent, so refer to the "Avoiding scams and fakes" section under the taxi heading for detailed advice on how to navigate this issue safely.

While many Beijing locals are genuinely curious about foreigners and may simply wish to chat or take a photo, it's important to remain cautious and stick to your original plans. If you are approached with an invitation to go somewhere unexpected, it's wise to politely decline and continue with your plans. Be wary of locals—often posing as students or artists—who invite tourists to exhibitions or tea tastings, which can lead to pressure to make expensive purchases.

Traffic can be crazy in Beijing, and reckless driving is fairly normal. People honk all the time. Honking is not usually considered rude. It is simply another way to indicate that the driver is there. Be prepared for drivers to violate traffic laws even to the extent of going in reverse on highways to back up to a missed exit or driving on a sidewalk. Also expect occasional road debris (a piece of wood or torn out tire) to be laying in the roadway. Pedestrians should be very careful crossing the street: People will generally stop for you, but they will honk. Keep an eye on the locals and cross with them — there is strength in numbers. Cars don't need to stop at a red light when they are turning right. Although the traffic law gives the first priority to pedestrians, not every driver obeys the rule.

In Beijing and the rest of mainland China, digital payments are essential for travelers, as Visa and Mastercard are rarely accepted. To ensure smooth transactions, set up WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) or Alipay before your trip or upon arrival. Both platforms now support linking foreign bank cards like Visa and Mastercard using your home mobile number. If you plan to use a temporary SIM card, wait until you arrive to link your card.

It's advisable to link both WeChat Pay and Alipay, since most vendors accept one or both platforms. Additionally, Alipay+ allows payments via home e-wallets from other Asian countries, supporting apps like AlipayHK (Hong Kong SAR, China), Kaspi.kz (Kazakhstan), MPay (Macao SAR, China), Touch 'n Go eWallet (Malaysia), Hipay (Mongolia), NayaPay (Pakistan), Changi Pay (Singapore), OCBC Digital (Singapore), Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, Toss Pay (South Korea), and TrueMoney (Thailand).

The Beijinger provides an illustrated guide for setting up these services.

As a backup, carry sufficient Chinese currency in cash. Foreign currencies like USD or EUR are of little use, and exchanging them at banks can be time-consuming, sometimes taking up to two hours. However, you can withdraw cash from most ATMs.

The Great Firewall of China blocks popular web services including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Google, WhatsUp, Telegram and many others including Wikipedia. To bypass internet restrictions and access popular websites, travelers often use VPN services. As of September 2024, reports from users consider Mullvad and Astrill to be reliable. Popular VPN choices like Express and Nord are not considered relabile. During significant events, VPN services may experience disruptions. Be sure to install the VPN before arriving in China; attempting to do so after landing can be problematic as the service might already be blocked.

For domestic and international express deliveries, SF Express is the most popular courier service in China. Sending an express mail envelope across the country typically costs ¥23. For express deliveries to less popular international destinations, DHL Express is recommended due to its extensive global network.

For Muslim worshippers, a visit to the Niujie Mosque in the Xicheng District is highly recommended. As the oldest mosque in Beijing, it is not only a place for prayer but also a cornerstone of the city's Islamic heritage. The surrounding Niujie Street (Ox Street) is the lively heart of Beijing's Muslim community, offering halal dining options and an immersive cultural experience.

The Archbishop of Beijing, like all bishops in China, is in communion with the Pope. The Diocese of Beijing is home to several historic churches where Sunday Masses are offered in Chinese, Latin, French, and Italian. You can check the schedule on this website.

For parishioners of the Russian Orthodox Church, the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos Church is the primary place of worship in Beijing. Located within the Russian Embassy in Dongcheng District, it is the only Orthodox parish in the Chinese capital. Regular services are held on Saturdays, Sundays, and feast days. The church also offers a Sunday Catechetic School for English-speaking parishioners, which takes place every Sunday at 12:00 in the church library. Visitors have to plan their visit accordingly.

In Fangshan District, lies the site of the city's earliest known church, Shizisi (Temple of the Cross). Dating back possibly to the 7th century, this Nestorian Christian church has a fascinating history reflecting the presence of the Assyrian Church of the East in China. Little of the original structure remains, but the site is marked by two ancient stone inscriptions.

Beijing is a good place to obtain visas, being home to an exceptionally large number of diplomatic missions.