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.

Yuanming Yuan (Old Summer Palace)

The name Yuanming Yuan derives from a Buddhist term and can be translated as “Garden of Perfect Brightness”. This was the largest and most elaborate of all the summer palaces of the Qing era. It once contained private imperial residences, pleasure pavilions, Buddhist temples, a vast imperial ancestral shrine, pools for goldfish, and canals and lakes for pleasure boating. The Qianlong emperor even added a group of European-style palaces designed by Jesuit missionary-artists serving in the Qing court. Today, all that’s left are graceful, fragmentary ruins after the complex was razed to the ground during the Second Opium War (1856–1860). A small museum displays images and models of the place as it was.
Yugong Yishan

The city’s most satisfying music venue, with an eclectic but always laudable booking policy.
Zen Cat Gallery

Unique gallery on the shores of Hou Hai (14 Hou Hai Nanyan) that acts as a show space for the eye-catching creations of kooky artist Dong Zi.
Zha jiang mian

The name means “clanging dish noodles” – like hot pot, ingredients are added at the table to a central tureen of noodles, and the bowls are loudly clanged together as each dish goes in, hence the name.
Zhaolong International Youth Hostel

A quiet option despite the proximity to Sanlitun bar district. Dorms are decently tidy and guests have access to a self-catering dining room, games room, and bike rentals. The front door is locked at 1am nightly.
Zheng Yi Temple Theater

Daily two-hour performances.
Zhong Shan Park

Just outside the walls of the Forbidden City, Zhong Shan offers a respite from the crowds (see Zhong Shan Park).
Zhong Shan Park

Northwest of the Tian’an Men, Zong Shan (also known as Sun Yat Sen Park) offers respite from the crowds thronging the nearby sights. The park was once part of the grounds of a temple and the square Altar of Earth and Harvests remains. In the eastern section is the Forbidden City Concert Hall, Beijing’s premier venue for classical music.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
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