Beijing, the hub of communist political rule in China reflects the nations historical changes. Rapid modernisation sits alongside communist style monuments and gleaming towers showing the country’s progress at the expense of it’s historical past. Beijing’s famous Hutongs, the narrow alleys where people’s daily lives and businesses thrived are sadly disappearing rapidly. Beijing is an intriguing places to visit with a constantly changing skyline. Here are our highlights of Beijing:

1. Forbidden City and Imperial Palace

The Forbidden City is a massive complex of over 9000 rooms and the size can be daunting for the visitor. The Forbidden City does get extremely crowded with visitors and not all of the rooms have anything worth seeing inside, but it is certainly worth a day of your time in Beijing.

2. Tiananmen Square

This is one of the most important sites in recent Chinese history and was where Chairman Mao held his impressive rallies and shows of strength. It was also the scene of the pro-democracy protests of the late 1980s.

3. Temple of Heaven

The temple dates from the 15th century and is the largest religious building in the whole of China. The grounds are as much of an attraction as the buildings and make a great place to relax and take in the scenery and atmosphere.

4. Great Wall

The iconic image of China is the Great Wall, and although not in the city itself, there are stretches of the wall within 40 miles of the city. Take advantage of one of the many organised trips to the Wall rather than trying to make the arrangements yourself.

5. Summer Palace

The Summer Palace has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is a park of almost 300 acres containing mansions, temples and a large lake. Despite the crowds, it is a tranquil and relaxing place.

6. Olympic Site

The Beijing Olympics of 2008 were a huge success, and all sports fans will find a visit to the site of the Games both interesting and educational. You can climb to the top of the Bird’s Nest stadium, and also see the Water Cube where the swimming events were held.

7. Beihai Park

Beihai Park is where the Chinese go to relax and while visiting this large open space you will see dancers, musicians and painters, making the most of the beautiful surroundings.

Photo by Haemengine