Beijing in a Few Days: History, Architecture & Epic Views

Beijing is a city where ancient history meets modern skyscrapers, and we got to experience both. From walking the Great Wall to exploring imperial palaces and futuristic buildings, here’s how our trip went:

Jinshanling Great Wall – The Ultimate Hike

We visited the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, and it was 100% worth it. Compared to the more touristy Badaling section, Jinshanling is quieter, with breathtaking views and less crowds. The hike was challenging, with steep steps, but walking along the unrestored parts of the Wall made it feel even more special.

Imperial China: Palaces & Temples

✔️ Forbidden City – An absolute must-see! The size and grandeur of this ancient palace were insane. It’s best to book tickets in advance and go early to avoid crowds.
✔️ Summer Palace – A beautiful escape from the city, with stunning lakes, temples, and gardens. We walked along the Long Corridor and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere.
✔️ Temple of Heaven – One of the most iconic temples in China, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests was our favorite spot.
✔️ Winter Palace (Beihai Park) – A lesser-known but beautiful imperial retreat with a huge lake and a white pagoda on an island.

Modern Beijing: Skyscrapers & Olympic Legacy

✔️ Bird’s Nest Stadium – The architecture of this stadium from the 2008 Olympics was impressive, especially when lit up at night.
✔️ CBD Skyline & Beijing’s Tallest Building – We explored the Central Business District (CBD) and saw the China Zun Tower (CITIC Tower), the tallest building in Beijing. The futuristic skyline was a stark contrast to the historical sites we visited.

Tips for Visiting Beijing:

✔️ Use Didi or the subway – Traffic is crazy, but the metro system is efficient.
✔️ Book tickets in advance – The Forbidden City and some other attractions require early reservations.
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll walk a LOT, especially at the Great Wall.
✔️ Try Peking Duck – You can’t leave Beijing without tasting this famous dish!

Beijing is a city that blends imperial history with modern innovation, making every day an adventure. Would you visit? #beijingtrip #greatwall #forbiddencity