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.

Bei Hai Park

The most beautiful of Beijing’s many city parks is laid out around a central lake, first dug out in the 12th century, with the excavated earth used to create a central island. The famed Kublai Khan ruled his empire from a palace here (see Bei Hai Park).
Bei Hai Park

Classic ornamental gardens with a large lake for boating (see Bei Hai Park).
Beijing Amusement Park

An old-style fairground with a Ferris wheel, teacup merry-go-round, mini rollercoaster, and go-kart track set lakeside in grassy Long Tan Park. Avoid at weekends and on public holidays, when the place gets uncomfortably crowded.
Beijing Aquarium

Located in the northeastern corner of the zoo is this new and very impressive addition. It’s reputedly the largest inland aquarium in the world, with massive tanks containing thousands of weird and wonderful fish, plus a shark tank, coral reefs and an “Amazon rainforest.” There are also several dolphin and seal shows held throughout the day.

Beijing Aquarium
Beijing Aquarium

Located in the northeastern corner of the zoo, this is a new and very impressive attraction, which will keep children happy for hours, especially the dolphin shows (see Beijing Aquarium).
Beijing Art Fair

Almost 100 galleries from around the globe in Beijing to sell, sell, sell.
Beijing Art Now

Exciting art space in the grounds of the Workers’ Stadium. www.artnow.cn
Beijing Arts & Crafts Central Store

Possibly the best souvenir store in town, filled with silks ceramics, jade, calligraphy, and paintings (see Beijing Arts & Crafts Central Store).
Beijing Arts & Crafts Central Store

A vast, multi-story emporium of all kinds of Chinese handicrafts, from cloisonné vases and jade, to wood-carvings, lacquer ware, and silks.
Beijing Bicycle

(Wang Xiaoshuai; 2001) A young bike messenger has his ride stolen and attempts to get it back.