Beijing Travel Guide: Your Smooth & Unforgettable Trip to the Ancient Capital
Welcome to Beijing, a city where ancient history collides with a dynamic modern future. Navigating this megacity can seem daunting, but with our insider tips, you’ll travel with confidence and ease. This guide is designed to help you, the international traveler, master Beijing’s essentials for a truly seamless adventure.
Before You Fly: Essential Pre-Trip Checklist
- Visa: Most foreign travelers need a visa to enter China. Apply at your nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate well in advance—at least one month before your trip. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Crucial! Popular Western websites and apps like Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube are blocked in China. Download and install a reliable VPN on your phone and laptop before you arrive.
- Money Matters: While Alipay and WeChat Pay are dominant, international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are increasingly accepted in hotels and large stores. However, always carry some Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB) in cash. Smaller shops, markets, and taxis may not accept cards. Exchange currency at the airport, banks, or your hotel.
- Essential Apps:
- Navigation: Baidu Maps or Amap. Google Maps does not work reliably.
- Translation: Pleco (excellent dictionary) or Google Translate (download the Chinese language pack for offline use).
- Ride-Hailing: Didi Chuxing. It’s China’s Uber and has an English-language interface. You can link an international credit card.
- Communication: We recommend using your VPN to access WhatsApp. Otherwise, download WeChat, the all-in-one Chinese super-app.
Getting Around Beijing: Transportation Made Easy
Beijing is vast, but its public transport is efficient and affordable.
- The Beijing Subway: This is your best friend! It’s clean, fast, and most signs are in both Chinese and English.
- Get a Card: Purchase a rechargeable Yikatong (IC Card) at any subway station. You can use it on the subway, buses, and even in some taxis. It saves you the hassle of buying single-journey tickets.
- Taxis: Readily available. Always have your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are often easier as they eliminate the language barrier.
- Buses: Cheaper and offer great street views, but can be challenging without Chinese language skills. Best for more adventurous travelers.
- Bicycle Sharing: A fantastic way to explore the city’s hutongs (alleyways). Apps like Mobike or HelloBike are easy to use with an international number.
Must-See Sights & Pro-Tips
- Best Sections for You: Avoid the overcrowded Badaling. For a more authentic experience, go to Mutianyu (easier to access, has a cable car and toboggan slide) or Jinshanling (for serious hikers).
- Tip: Book a day tour or hire a private driver. Public transport can be time-consuming.
2. The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
- Booking is Mandatory: You MUST book your tickets online in advance through their official website. They often sell out, especially during holidays.
- Tip: Enter from the Meridian Gate (South Gate) and exit at the Gate of Divine Prowess (North Gate), which leads directly to Jingshan Park for a stunning panoramic view of the palace.
3. Temple of Heaven
- Visit in the Morning: This is when you’ll see local Beijingers dancing, practicing Tai Chi, and playing music. It’s a vibrant cultural experience.
- Tip: The park is large and beautiful. Don’t just see the main hall; stroll through the surrounding gardens.
- Plan a Full Half-Day: This is a massive imperial garden with a lake. Rent a boat in summer or walk on the frozen lake in winter.
- Tip: Follow the Long Corridor, a covered walkway decorated with thousands of intricate paintings.
Cultural Know-How & Etiquette
- Dining: Don’t be shy to slurp your noodles! It’s a sign you enjoy the food. It’s common to share dishes family-style.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary or expected in China. It is not practiced in taxis, restaurants, or hotels. High-end hotels frequented by tourists may be an exception, but it’s still not the norm.
- Bargaining: Expected at markets like the Silk Market or Panjiayuan Antique Market. Start at about 30-50% of the asking price and negotiate with a smile. Do not bargain in fixed-price shops or malls.
- Greetings: A simple nod or smile is fine. The traditional handshake is also acceptable.
Handy Mandarin Phrases
You’ll get far with just a few words and a friendly attitude.
- Hello: Nǐ hǎo (Nee how)
- Thank you: Xièxie (Shyeh-shyeh)
- How much?: Duōshǎo qián? (Dwor-shhow chyen?)
- Too expensive: Tài guì le (Tie gway luh)
- I don’t understand: Wǒ tīng bù dǒng (Woh ting boo dong)
- Check, please: Mǎi dān (My dahn)
- Delicious: Hǎo chī (How chr)
Final Quick Tips
- Carry Toilet Paper & Hand Sanitizer: Many public restrooms, especially in older areas, may not provide toilet paper or soap.
- Stay Hydrated: The air can be dry. Buy bottled water easily from any convenience store.
- Be Patient & Flexible: Things may not always go as planned. Embrace the unexpected—it’s all part of the adventure in China!
Beijing is a city that will captivate you with its layers of history, incredible food, and the warm spirit of its people. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to explore with ease. Have a magnificent journey!
Happy travels! (Lǚtú yúkuài!)