Best Options For Your Stopover in Beijing
Beijing is much more than just a place to refuel and stretch your legs during a layover. There are many fantastic activities you can do during a stopover in Beijing. If you can, it’s worth leaving the airport, and taking a day or two to see the classic tourist attractions.
Whether you’re traveling on your own, with friends, or with family members, these are top 8 things you should put on your list.
1. Walk Mutianyu Great Wall
If you want an activity you can reach easily, consider visiting the Mutianyu Great Wall. You can access this straight from the airport. Reaching this portion of the Great Wall will take about an hour each way, so if you have a longer stopover, this can be a lovely way to see some of Beijing up close and personal.
2. Stroll through the Imperial Garden
For history lovers, a visit to the imperial garden in the Forbidden City is a “must.” View the lovely plants and flowers, explore the buildings, and even observe lovely statues that fill this space. Each corner of the garden houses a small pavilion. These pavilions represent the four seasons of the year. Make sure you visit each one on your visit to the garden. You may notice that some of the footpaths boast colorful rocks and pebbles. This is a purposeful representation of good luck!
3. Walk Around Tiananmen Square
Don’t forget to explore Tiananmen Square during your stopover in Beijing. This is located just 40 minutes from the airport and is the perfect way to spend an afternoon enjoying Chinese culture and history. View Tiananmen Tower, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, or even the Memorial Hall of Chairman Mao on your visit.
4. Explore Hutong–Nanluoguxiang Area
Nanluoguxiang is known for being a lovely historical part of Beijing. When you visit, you’ll find shops and bars located in beautiful historical buildings. What better place to experience a bit of Chinese culture than by walking around, shopping, eating, and exploring? Enjoy new foods or even shop for souvenirs.
5. Soak Up Some Culture at 798 Art District
If you like nothing better than seeing lovely sculptures, paintings, and other creations by local artist, you must visit 798 Art District on your stopover. Spend a few hours walking around and exploring the different art displays you’ll see.
6. Grab Some Food at Wangfujing Snack Street
If you love to eat, you absolutely must visit Wangfujing Snack Street during your stopover in Beijing. Whether you want western food, like KFC, or you’re more interested in local street vendors, you’ll find everything your stomach desires.
7. Pick Up Some Ssouvenirs at the Silk Market
No great vacation is complete without shopping for souvenirs, and your trip to Beijing should be no exception. Visit the Silk Market to explore clothing, watches, jewelry, and more. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one, you’ll be delighted to discover just how many fantastic items are available for purchase.
8. Eat Roast Duck at Quanjude Restaurant
Each year, Quanjude serves over two million roast ducks to customers. Make sure you visit during your stopover to enjoy one of the most famous restaurants in China. You’ll be able to order one of the most delicious meals you’ve ever experienced. This reflects perfectly with the name, “Quanjude,” which means perfection and unity.
Beijing is a city full of rich cultural history, beautiful buildings, and lovely shops. During your next stopover, make sure you take the time to fully visit beautiful Beijing and explore some of these fantastic attractions.
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