Visiting Beijing China? Don’t miss these things to do.
Caroline and I (Erin) were recently on a press trip in Beijing with Ctrip and Juicertrip to learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It was an awesome experience learning about acupuncture, cupping, Tui Na (massage), moxibustion and even Tai Chi! We were also lucky enough to be able to fit in some local eats while exploring the city. It was our first time visiting China and already we are eager to go back. The following list is a compilation of our must do adventures in Beijing.
This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.
Last Updated: June 15, 2024
11 Unique Things to Do in Beijing China
1. Visit the Forbidden City →
The Forbidden City is almost 500 years old and is located in the center of Beijing, across from Tiananmen Square. This city within a city was the home for emperors and covers more than 7.8 million square feet.
Pin
Pin2. Participate in Tai Chi
Throngs of locals gather at the Temple of Heaven to practice tai chi, sing, dance, practice calligraphy, and play chess.
Local Tip: Get there by 8am before the park gets too crowded.
3. Visit Jingshan Park →
Climb this artificial hill for an amazing view of Beijing and the Forbidden City. Be sure to visit the pavilions in the park for a close-up at Chinese architecture.
4. Hike a Section of the Great Wall →
The Great Wall at Badaling is about an hour outside of Beijing and is one of the greatest tourist attractions near the city. It’s very busy year-round but also is great for those who don’t want to do a lot of hiking since it offers a gondola ride to the top.
Local Tip: Want a less touristy section of the Great Wall? Head to Mutianyu.
5. Imperial Cuisine Museum
If you choose to go to dinner at the Imperial Cuisine Museum, you’ll also be treated to a show that includes dancing, singing, and acrobatics. The costumes and story-telling are first-rate and include a huge screen with English subtitles at the bottom to help guests follow along.
6. Eat Peking Duck at Quanjude
Quanjude serves up over 2 million roast ducks a year! It is prepared on an open oven and sliced and served right in front of you. The taste is often described as golden, crisp and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
7. Relax in a Hot Spring
The Beijing Jinyufengshan Spa Resort, north of Beijing, has both indoor and outdoor hot springs to choose from. There are several temperatures to choose from and the landscaping is such that your experience can feel private even when the spa is busy.
8. Explore acupuncture at the Beijing Hospital of TCM
This hospital does a variety of things such as TCM medical practice, teaching, scientific research and disease prevention. There are more than 70 specialized TCM clinics at this location.
9. Learn About Chinese Herbs at the Museum of Chinese Medicine
We visited the Museum of Chinese Medicine at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, and they instructed us to make a Chinese Herbal sachet to prevent the flu. An impressive 1,000 medicinal objects and 200 ancient medical books on display. The Museum is open to the public and offers free introductions every Saturday.
10. Get a Massage (Tui Na)
Tui Na is Chinese Medical Massage method used to improve the flow of life force, or energy, in the body. It is also used to treat the muscles and joints. You can receive Tui Na and Chinese Reflexology (foot massage) at Donzghimen Hospital.
11. Ride in a Tuk-Tuk (or Rickshaw)
These compact vehicles are really just a cart on a motorcycle. Some are completely enclosed, others are open air and are great fun to ride in. We had a hilarious time taking photos on our ride but they are a little more expensive than cabs and most can only fit 2 passengers. You can find them congregating at street corners for hire.
Where to Stay in Beijing
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Beijing hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a Beijing travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
Have you been to Beijing? What were your favorite things to do there? If not, which of these would be on your must-do list?
SEE More International City Guides
⟡⟡⟡⟡⟡
“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.
