DK Travel : Beijing

At the heart of Beijing is tradition, given physical form in the mighty Forbidden City, from where successive imperial dynasties have ruled since the 15th century. Neighboring Tian’an Men Square is the China of recent history, of red-flag socialism and Mao. But this is also a city on the move, as an all-pervading spirit of change makes Beijing the most 21st-century of capitals.

Purple Vine

Lovely place located just outside the west gate of the Forbidden City.
Qian Men Jianguo Hotel

The hotel itself isn’t much to look at but rooms are decent. The Li Yun Theater, with nightly shows of Beijing Opera, is on the hotel grounds. The Temple of Heaven is a short walk away.
Qian Men Quanjude

The most famous of the Quanjude restaurants and the worse for it. But call by for take-away duck pancakes.
Qigong

Qigong combines breathing exercises, movement and meditation to positively channel body energy, or qi. Its adherents claim that regular practice can prevent illness and reduce stress.
Qomolangma Hotel

A few minutes’ walk from the Drum and Bell Towers and located in a former Buddhist temple, this courtyard hotel is full of character. Simple, cosy rooms have Ming-style furniture.
Quanjude

Beijing’s most famous duck restaurant has several branches but this is the most convenient, just a few steps off southern Wangfujing.
Raise the Red Lantern

(Zhang Yimou; 1991) Intrigue between the multiple wives of a wealthy overlord.
Raj

Cheap and authentic south Indian cusine. The décor is kitsch but there’s a pleasant outdoor terrace.
RBL

An ultra-stylish diner offering contemporary fusion food built around a sushi bar. Attached bar, Icehouse, doubles as a blues club, and is intriguing for its setting in a former imperial cold storage room (see RBL).
RBL

Classy, modern sushi bar (see RBL) with attached blues bar, Icehouse.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under ¥200
- ¥200–¥400
- ¥400–¥800
- ¥800–¥1400
- over ¥1400
Restaurant price categories

For the equivalent of a meal for two made up of a range of dishes, served with tea, and including service.
- under ¥100
- ¥100–¥250
- ¥250–¥500
- over ¥500