Beijing Travel Guide
So you are planning a trip to Beijing but can't work out the nitty gritty details of exactly which destinations and attractions to visit? Let me make your job easier for you... in this article I am going to list and briefly explain a few of the very best and more interesting attractions in Beijing. This is just the tip of the ice berg but I do recommend visiting each of these sites.
Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, like many places in Beijing at the moment, is currently being renovated for the Olympics. However you can still visit and enjoy this wonderful attraction. Experience Imperial Chinese in these spectacular courtyards. You'll feel like you are taking a trip back into the past in the Forbidden City. The gates open at 8.30am.
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square has much historic significance due to the events which have taken place there. There are many old government buildings and monuments here which are of interest. This was of course the location of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre and 4 lions at the front gates with bullet holes in them represent this event. This place is a must visit for anyone in Beijing.
Temple of Heaven
There are many temples in Beijing but this is one of my favorites. It is a spectacular building and is surrounded by beautiful green parkland.
Yonghegong
Yonghegong is another temple in Beijing which still houses monks. There is an 18 meter statue of Maitreya Buddha made from one piece of sandalwood. It is quite spectacular.
Beijing Botanical Gardens
You'll see many acres of beautiful flowers and gardens here. It is a wonderful outlet from the smog and noise of the city! Spring time is obviously the best time to visit the Gardens as many flowers are blossoming at this time.
Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution
You'll see many military vehicles and planes on display here as well as historic accounts of military history and events.
The Museum of History and the Museum of the Revolution are two other museums worth visiting in Beijing for those interested in history and particularly military history.
These attractions are a must visit on your trip to Beijing. I can not recommend them highly enough as they give you a taste of history, culture, architecture and everything that is Beijing.