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.

Beijing Exhibition Hall

A monument to the one-time ideological union between China and the USSR, the hall is a Muscovite-styled period piece (built 1954) fronted by a red-star-topped spire. Although not generally open to the public you can usually access the entrance lobby, which is festooned with massive crystal chandeliers.
Beijing Hilton

A recent refurb has transformed the Hilton into a stylish hotel with large rooms sporting designer flourishes and huge bathrooms. Good value option close to the embassies, shopping, and nightlife centers of Nuren Jie and Sanlitun.
Beijing Hotel

Beijing’s oldest hotel reopened in summer 2006 after a massive refit as part of the famed Raffles group. Excellent location at the bottom of Wangfujing, a short walk from Tian’an Men Square.
Beijing International Theater Festival

A month of musicals, operas, puppet shows and dramas.
Beijing Music Festival

Month-long extravaganza of local and international soloists and orchestras.
Beijing Opera

With its incomprehensible plots, unfamiliar sounds, and performances lasting up to three hours, Beijing Opera is a hard-to-acquire taste. However, everyone should try it at least once (see Beijing Opera).
Beijing Police Museum

Housed in the 19th-century former City Bank of New York in the old Legation Quarter, this surprisingly fun museum boasts displays on themes such as the suppression of counter- revolutionaries and drug dealers. Famed police dog Feisheng is here – stuffed and mounted – and there are live transmissions from a roadside traffic camera. An interactive screen poses legal questions and correct answers win prizes: it doesn’t say what the punishment is for those who answer wrongly.
Beijing Pop Festival

International name acts supported by local talent.
Beijing Railway Station

Prime illustration of 1959’s prevailing “size is everything” approach to architecture.
Beijing Silk Store

Venerable store said to date back to 1840. Prices for quality tailoring, ready-made clothes, and fine cloths are reasonable.

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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