Ducks, Drums & Dynasty Tombs: A Guide To Beijing

• Beyond the Wall: While the Great Wall is a must, we explore the other essential stops, including the Sacred Way and the Temple of Heaven.

• Real Beijing: Discover the "Hutongs" - the ancient alleyways that offer a glimpse into traditional life away from the skyscrapers.

• Food & Drink: Where to find the best Peking Duck and the coolest cocktail bars in the capital.

To look at Beijing from the sky is to see a city of ever-growing circles, expanding outwards like ripples in a pond.

To look at its skyline is to see impossibly tall buildings shaped like Tetris blocks.

The capital of China is vast, frantic, and home to an estimated 20 million people. For a visitor, it can be overwhelming.

We all know about Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall, but what else is there to do in this sprawling metropolis?

Whether you are docking in Tianjin for a long excursion or enjoying a pre-cruise stay, here is our guide to making the most of the "Northern Capital."

Cultural Sights, Sounds & Statues

In Beijing, the question isn't what to see, but how much time you have. If you have already ticked off the Forbidden City, here are the next best stops.

The Ming Tombs & The Sacred Way

First, head to the Sacred Way. This ancient path is flanked by pairs of massive stone statues -

from soldiers to camels to mythical beasts - standing guard over the Emperor's road to heaven. It is a surprisingly peaceful walk compared to the city centre.

• Top Tip: Once at the end of the walkway, make sure you rub the head of the giant stone turtle. It is said to bring good luck!

• The Tombs: While you can descend into the underground palace of the Dingling Tomb, many visitors find the Sacred Way itself more atmospheric (and less claustrophobic!).

The Temple of Heaven

This is more than just a temple; it is a massive park where local life unfolds. You will see locals practicing Tai Chi, playing cards, or writing calligraphy with water on the pavement.

The complex includes the iconic Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Altar.

• Why go? It gives you a great insight into ancient philosophy and is one of the best spots in the city for people-watching.

The Summer Palace

Situated in the northwest of the city, this was the Emperor's escape from the stifling heat of the Forbidden City. Overlooking Kunming Lake, it is said to be the best-preserved imperial garden in the world.

• Top Tip: Arrive early (before 10 am) to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakeshore.

Explore the "Real" Beijing: The Hutongs

Beijing isn’t just about grand palaces. To see how ordinary people live, you must visit the Hutongs.

These ancient alleyways and single-story courtyard houses have survived centuries of development.

They are the soul of the city. Jump in a rickshaw or wander on foot to see a slower pace of life, buy local wares, and perhaps visit a local family home.

The Drum and Bell Towers

Hidden nearby is the Drum Tower, where drums still pound at half-past the hour.

• The Tea Ceremony: Visit the Bell Tower to experience a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony. Your tea master will talk you through the different varieties - a perfect cultural break (and a great place to buy gifts for friends back home).

Taste the Tradition: Peking Duck

You cannot visit Beijing without eating Peking Duck (Peking being the old Romanisation of Beijing). The crispy skin, the thin pancakes, the plum sauce - it is a culinary rite of passage.

Where to Eat

• The Famous One: Quanjude. They have been roasting ducks since 1864 and are the most famous brand in China.

• The Local Favourite: Siji Minfu (Dongcheng district). It is often quieter, cheaper, and arguably just as tasty.

Cocktails & Chill

Despite being a communist country, Beijing knows how to party.

• Blue Stream: A great spot in the Xicheng district with views of the Drum Tower.

• Face Bar: Located in a tranquil bamboo garden in the Chaoyang district. It’s the perfect escape from the city noise on a warm summer evening.

A Shopaholic’s Dream

Shanghai might be the fashion capital, but Beijing is a bargain hunter's paradise.

The Markets

• HongQiao Pearl Market: Don't let the name fool you. While it sells pearls, its five floors are packed with handbags, shoes, electronics, and silk.

• The Rule: Haggle! The first price they give you is never the real price. Be polite but firm.

The Malls

If haggling isn't your thing, head to Seasons Place or Sun Dong An Plaza for a western-style shopping experience with fixed prices.

Alternatives to the Big Landmarks

Mao’s Mausoleum

Located in Tiananmen Square, this is where the embalmed body of Chairman Mao lies in state. It attracts huge crowds of domestic tourists. It is certainly an experience, though perhaps not for the faint-hearted.

Jingshan Park (The Best View)

If you visit the Forbidden City, do not put your camera away when you leave the north gate. Instead, cross the road and climb the hill in Jingshan Park.

• The View: This artificial hill (made from the earth dug out to create the Forbidden City's moat) offers the absolute best view of the palace complex, allowing you to see the scale of the golden roofs stretching out below.

And One Last Word of Advice…

Thinking of booking tickets to the Peking Opera? You might want to think twice. It is a highly acquired taste, involving high-pitched singing and shrill music that many Western visitors find difficult to endure for two hours!

• Our Tip: Watch a clip on YouTube first. If you still want to go, enjoy the spectacular costumes, but maybe don't commit to a full-length performance!

So now you know exactly how to fill your time in the Northern Capital. This city, steeped in history and pulsing with modern energy, deserves at least one visit to appreciate the sheer scale of imperial and communist China.