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.

Xiang Shan Park

An hour’s drive northwest of the center but worth it for thickly wooded slopes dotted with pavilions (see Xiang Shan Park).
Xin Bar

This little gem has colorful Yunnan decorations, leafy foliage, and a roof terrace overlooking the surrounding hutongs. As well as cheap beer there are ten types of tea.
Xindadu Youth Hostel

One of the newest of the YHA hostels. Dorm beds (200 in total) are the only option, but rooms are pristine. Convenient for access to Beijing West Railway Station.
Xu Beihong Memorial Museum

Set back from the road with a sign on top in green characters, and opposite a branch of KFC, this museum is dedicated to the man regarded as the founder of modern Chinese painting. It exhibits a collection of the lively watercolors of horses, which made Xu Beihong (1885–1953) internationally famous.
Yang Ge

Dancing accessorized with brightly-colored, silk fans (an art known as yang ge) is popular with middle-aged ladies. It incorporates stylized movements derived from folk dancing.
Yaxiu Market

At the center of the embassy district of Sanlitun, Yaxiu (or Yashow) offers more of the same as the Silk Market: four floors of clothing, bags, shoes, and sportswear, plus some jewelry, nail salons, and a bunch of tailors on the top floor who can run up a gent’s suit for around ¥350 (see also Yaxiu Market).

Beaded purse
Yaxiu Market

Similar to the Silk Market, but significantly less crowded (see Yaxiu Market).
Yellow Earth

(Chen Kaige; 1984) A Red Army soldier is posted to a desolate province to collect folk songs and finds misery.
You tiao

Deep-fried dough sticks, often dipped in warm congee (a rice porridge).
Yuanlong Silk Company

Hugely popular multi-story emporium specializing in all things silken.

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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