As China continues to open itself up to the western tourism trade, so more and more people are discovering the delights of this oriental nation. Since its triumphant hosting of the Olympics in 2008, the city of Beijing has risen to the top of many a tourist’s must-see list, with its improved infrastructure and accommodations making it an even more appealing destination for people from all walks of life.

The city and surrounds offer a wealth of entertainments and attractions – meaning there is something for everyone in the area.

Days Out in Beijing

There are plenty of exciting ways to while away a day in the Chinese capital, each of which offers a unique opportunity to uncover a little of city’s culture and identity. Choose from:

• The Forbidden City: This former imperial palace sits at the heart of the modern day capital offering an intriguing window into the country’s past. Datin from the 15^th Century, this labyrinthine complex now houses the palace museum which showcases some choice treasures from China’s dynastic history.
• The Summer Palace: Another remnant of the country’s imperial past, the Summer Palace occupies a 10 square mile plot in the city’s suburbs and is the most complete example of an imperial Chinese garden in existence today and offers a combination of breathtaking traditional architecture and stunning landscaping – making for a truly memorable day out.
• The Great Wall: Arguably the most recognisable symbol of China, the Great Wall has earned its place in human fascination with the myth that it is the only manmade landmark visible from space – a claim denied by NASA! It is, however, visible on the outskirts of Beijing and can be easily accessed by those who choose to rent a car or by hopping on one of the local bus services. Choose to walk a section or simply come and admire this feat of ancient architecture.

Nights Out in Beijing

To truly uncover Beijing’s identity you need to see it after sundown, with a wide range of entertainment options on offer after dark. Popular choices include:

• The Peking/Beijing Opera: Whatever name you know it by, the opera is an established cultural event on the Beijing social calendar. The show, which is staged at a number of venues across the city including the Huguang Huiguan Ancient Opera Building and Chang’an Grand Theatre, springs from a 200 year old tradition. The shows showcase a spectrum of Chinese tradition from music and movement to costume and make up telling the tales of the countries dynasties across the ages amongst other things.
• Experience True Chinese Cuisine: Chinese food is a favourite across the globe, but nowhere is it more authentic than on the tables of Beijing’s eateries. Travellers will be able to find an establishment to fit every budget from no frills good food to oriental fine dining. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some local delicacies.
• Sanlitun District: If your entertainment taste is less cultural and more contemporary then head for the Sanlitun District of Beijing to join to movers and shakers of the city’s nightlife scene. Here you can find a great selection of after hours establishments from ex-pat hangouts to karaoke and cocktails bars – Sanlitun has it in spades!