Beijing offers visitors a wealth of ancient culture, modern city life and breathtaking scenery. A visit to Tiananmen Square or Forbidden City alone could keep visitors busy for days!
If possible, visit one of the less visited sections of the Great Wall; these tend to be less crowded. Bring cash with you, as tips are not usually included. Access is simple though since Cathay Pacific lets you easily get from Hanoi to Beijing.
Get a local SIM card
One of the best ways to ensure a successful Beijing visit is obtaining a local SIM card prior to arrival. Order one online, have it delivered directly to your hotel or airport for a small shipping fee, and save yourself both money and hassle when arriving there. Some providers even include VPN protection within this package which saves even more money while providing more privacy and security.
If you plan on using your smartphone during your Beijing trip, make sure that it works in China. A prepaid SIM card will make using GPS, voice translation apps, booking trains or buses, or making other arrangements much simpler – and help avoid expensive data overage charges that can quickly mount when streaming videos or using video chat apps.
Beijing is a massive city and can become quite congested, so be prepared to be jostled around during your travels. Be mindful not to take anything personally; this is simply part of Chinese culture! For an easier trip, visit during spring or fall when temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller, and smog levels are at their lowest levels.
Learn a few words in Mandarin
Beijing residents speak minimal English, so before traveling here it would be beneficial to learn some Mandarin words and phrases. While translation apps and resources exist online, knowing a few phrases from everyday Mandarin conversations will make your trip both simpler and more exciting.
Keep in mind that cities can be overcrowded. Expect to be jostled and jostled off of when wandering the streets; and getting hit by cars on occasion. Additionally, people often spit in public spaces such as sidewalks which might initially seem disconcerting; though you’ll get used to it over time if you stay put for some time.
If you plan on visiting outdoor sites such as the Great Wall of China or other outdoor spots, such as hiking, be mindful of weather. Air quality can become poor at certain times of the year – hiking is best left for days that do not feature severe smog conditions.
If you plan on taking public transit, ensure you download a map app to navigate the subway system. As its signage is written in Chinese and it can be easy to get lost without proper directions, be sure to bring cash as many restaurants don’t accept credit cards. Finally, when taking taxis make sure your destination address written out in Chinese on your phone.
Carry some cash
Traveling to Beijing will require having some cash on hand as credit cards are less popular here than elsewhere. Expect to use cash for paying subway fares and admission fees, in addition to any smaller purchases you make along the way.
Always carry some extra cash with you for taxi cabs or taxis during rush hour when traffic can become particularly congested; an expected 30-minute journey could easily turn into one that lasts an hour or more! Furthermore, extra funds may come in handy should you need to tip drivers or tour guides; having this cash handy may make this easier for everyone involved.
Additional funds may be necessary due to scammers preying on tourists in Beijing, who try to take advantage of them with rides or offers of products for sale; it is wise to be wary in these instances, always asking before agreeing on anything or agreeing on anything from anyone.
Also, many Western websites and apps such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok are restricted in China – therefore it would be prudent to carry a VPN when traveling to Beijing so you can stay in contact with family and friends back home.
Don’t be afraid to spit or slurp
Beijing is an incredibly dense city, meaning personal space can often be scarce. Because of this, you may encounter more pushback or bumping when walking than usual; don’t take this personally–it’s part of Chinese culture! Over time you will become used to it.
As part of your China trip, be prepared for security checks at attractions and subway entrances – this is standard practice here, and nothing to be alarmed about. If traveling with children, a kid-friendly passport could speed entry into attractions faster.
As part of your sightseeing expedition, start at Tiananmen Square – one of the largest public squares worldwide. Next, discover Forbidden City (UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence to 24 Ming and Qing Emperors). Finally, climb Coal Hill for breathtaking views of Beijing!
Head out into Sanlitun or Houhai by nightfall for an immersive bar scene and karaoke culture experience in this lively capital city. When ordering beer or baijiu (rice wine), practice proper drinking etiquette by saying “ganbei!” before each round is served!
Don’t miss the Hutongs
Beijing’s hutongs (narrow alleyways lined by rows of traditional courtyard residences known as siheyuan) are an integral part of its history and culture, so taking a tour through one is highly recommended if visiting Beijing.
As you stroll the alleys of the capital city, you will gain insight into its former life. Neighbors engaging in loud chatter and games; mahjong tables set up with chairs awaiting their guests; electricity wires all around; open doors that offer glimpses into traditional residences – these sights and sounds will all come together during your stroll through these alleyways.
Not all hutongs have become tourist traps; others still retain more authentic atmospheres, like Wudaoying Hutong in Nanluoguxiang for instance. But others like Wudaoying are less touristy while offering great bars, cafes and tasty street food vendors like Nanluoguxiang do.
Consider when visiting a hutong: you won’t have much personal space! Expect to bump into many people while exploring, as well as share sidewalk space with bikes, carts and cars. Also bring cash as credit cards may not be widely accepted in China – credit cards won’t get you far if you want to stay connected online (we recommend WeChat or Xiao Hong Shu). Popular social networks such as Facebook, Google Plus, Instagram and Snapchat may all be blocked within China itself.
Check the weather
Beijing weather can vary considerably throughout the year, so it’s wise to consult the forecast before planning your visit. This way, you know exactly what awaits you during your adventure!
Spring (April to June) and autumn are ideal times for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists present. Springtime in particular is the ideal time to experience the Forbidden City with its gorgeous cherry blossom blooming amidst an electric atmosphere; and Summer Palace offers visitors a splendid historical tour through its gardens, buildings, and royal heritage museum; you could also hike along Mutianyu Great Wall; one of its most beloved sections!
Winter (December to February) can be cold in China, but it still makes for great sightseeing opportunities. Visit the Temple of Heaven – an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site which was used during Ming and Qing Dynasties sacrifice ceremonies; explore hutongs – ancient neighborhoods filled with local homes and shops; or take an exciting rickshaw ride through Hutongs (ancient neighborhoods with narrow alleyways that provide easy access to sites such as the Temple of Heaven).
Bring along some warm clothing if visiting the Great Wall during winter, as internet access may be restricted in China. Download an offline map app or carry physical maps for better navigation of this incredible structure.