Beijing travel guide

Beijing Changdian Cultural Temple Fair

Visiting Chian Dian during Chinese New Year is an old Beijing tradition. The temple fair began in the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty. During the festival, the streets come alive with excitement. Main attractions include lion dances, traditional flower fairs, folk arts and crafts exhibitions.

Location: Main streets are South Xinhua Street and East & West Liulichang. It stretches north from Hepingmen intersection to south of Hufang Bridge intersection.

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 16th day of the first lunar month.

The Chian Dian Temple Fair offers a glimpse into ancient local culture. Marvel at dazzling lion dancers. Browse colorful flower displays and handmade crafts. As you soak up the festive atmosphere, you'll see why this lively festival has endured for centuries, giving locals and visitors alike a taste of historic Beijing.

Baiyun Temple Fair

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Daguanyuan Spring Festival Reception

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Great Prayer Society

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Pop Music Festival

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Beijing International Music Festival

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Beijing University Film Festival

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Beijing Chrysanthemum (City Flower) Exhibition

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Xiangshan Red Leaf Festival

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Yanqing Ice and Snow Tourism Festival

The Baiyun Guan Temple Fair is famous for its bustling crowds and long duration. Many old Beijing customs are on display, like touching the stone monkeys and crossing the Fengqiao Bridge to toss coins for good luck. You'll also find traditional snacks, handicrafts, and exhibits of folk culture paintings. 

Location: Baiyun Guan Temple

Time: From Lunar New Year's Day to the 19th day of the first lunar month

With impressive incense offerings and crowds, Baiyun Guan's extended temple fair offers a deep immersion into Beijing's living folk culture. Marvel at traditional arts and try tasty snacks as you take part in centuries-old traditions. By engaging in these unique local customs, you'll gain a better appreciation of historic Beijing.

Would you also like to try Er Hua Yin?

Immerse yourself in Beijing's culture by learning a bit of the local dialect. As the bells on a bicycle ring through the hutongs (alleys), you may hear the melodic greeting "Chi le ma, nin-er?" (Have you eaten, sir/ma'am?). Beijingers often attach an "er" to words out of habit and respect. The lilting tones and clipped sounds of the dialect immediately convey the city's humorous, down-to-earth character. From the thick accents, you'll gain insight into Beijing's heritage. Try your hand at the retroflex "er" to sound like a true Beijinger! Let the bike bells and chatter in the hutongs transport you to an earlier era in China's captivating capital.

Wen Qing's Favorite - Nanluogu Lane

Nanluoguxiang is one of Beijing's hippest and liveliest hutong areas. Along less than half a mile of alleyways, endless bars, cafes, and creative shops tempt travelers. Buying a "Plastered T-shirt", eating a bowl of Yuanwailao cheese, and relaxing at a retro coffee shop has become the ultimate hipster lifestyle. If it all gets too noisy, duck into one of the small side alleys to experience old Beijing life. This is a haven for the artsy crowd. Capture the perfect Instagram in a curated shop filled with traditional wares and accessories. Chat with locals while sipping on craft beer at a tiny hole-in-the-wall bar. With its blend of old and new, Nanluoguxiang reflects Beijing's complex personality. Wander this maze of lanes to uncover the capital's creative side.

Beijing's time-honored brand is waiting for you to come and eat

Beijing roast duck is surely the city's most famous dish, with Quanjude in Qianmen and Wangfujing the best known. But the capital offers endless tasty snacks like jiaozi dumplings, soy milk, miancha tea, chao ganr stir-fried liver, stewed meat, and more - baodu exploding tripe, guanchang sausage, lvdabo spicy rice rolls, wandouhuang pea cakes...Head to Houhai's Jiumen Xiaochi, Fuchengmen's Huguo Si Xiaochi, Yaoji Fried Liver at the Gulou curve, or Qianmen Fresh Fish Alley to sample authentic local flavors. Beijing's time-honored eateries await! Savor the city's food culture by sampling specialty dishes like ma doufu spicy fried beancurd at 100-year-old Doufunao, or experience the bustling atmosphere at 1950s lamb hotpot favorite Bianyifang. Sip millet porridge for breakfast at a hole-in-the-wall joint. Savor the diverse flavors to taste the essence of this historic capital.

The most beautiful autumn is here

Autumn cloaks Beijing in brilliant golden hues. Every fall, the sycamore-lined Sanlihe Road near Di'anmen is a top spot for photographers seeking to capture the city's "Golden Tree Avenue". The canopy of shimmering yellow leaves creates a romantic tunnel where only your loved one's smiling face remains visible. Fragrant Hills Park is another prime destination to soak in autumn's allure, with crimson foliage enveloping the mountains. Beijing's most spectacular seasonal display unfolds in October as trees transform into blazing shades of amber, orange, and burgundy. Grab your camera and stroll hand-in-hand through a kaleidoscope of color. Pause under the ancient gnarled branches of a fiery tree and steal a kiss. Leaf-peeping at scenic parks and hutongs during Beijing's gorgeous autumn days allows you to rediscover the simple joys of natural beauty.

798- Art Everywhere

Beijing's 798 Art District has emerged as one of the city's hippest creative hubs. Once a complex of Bauhaus-style former electronics factories in suburban Dashanzi, 798 was "occupied" by artists drawn to its unique architectural style. Today, converted workshops house galleries, exhibitions, studios, and more. Bars, bookstores, and cafes have also sprung up, enhancing 798's artsy vibe. Venture northeast to explore Beijing's Caochangdi and Heiqiao neighborhoods for a similar scene. Wandering the graffiti-covered lanes of 798 feels worlds away from the capital's hustle and bustle. Pop into galleries to view provocative works by China's leading contemporary artists and designers. Strike a pose next to an abstract sculpture or colorful mural for an edgy Instagram snap. As China embraces new forms of artistic expression, 798 remains at the innovative forefront. From avant-garde to nostalgic, this creative cluster captures the country's complexity.

Beijing, a diverse city of literature and art

Beijing's vibrant performing arts landscape fosters a dynamic cultural milieu unmatched in many cities. Attend a world-class production at the majestic National Centre for the Performing Arts, then catch a hilarious original xiangsheng (crosstalk) show in local Beijing dialect at the Teahouse Theater. For indie bands or electronic sets in an underground ambiance, head to Yugong Yishan bar or the Temple Bar. Or share the perfect night out with artsy locals at one of Sanlitun's bars, where the international crowds and languages make you feel transported abroad. Beijing has it all. Spend an evening at a tea house listening to traditional Peking opera. Bar-hop in Nanluoguxiang's hutongs. Experience the capital's anything-goes arts scene. This multilayered city allows you to immerse in imperial culture and history, while exploring creative frontiers. Whether you prefer the grandeur of imperial theaters or the grit of avant-garde galleries, Beijing flourishes as a diverse cultural metropolis.

Best Travel Time

Spring and autumn are the most suitable seasons for traveling to Beijing. Spring (March May): The temperature in Beijing is suitable in spring, with flowers blooming. In the urban area, you can go boating on the lake in Beihai Park, go hiking, climb the Great Wall in the suburbs, and visit ancient temples. Autumn (September October): Although autumn in Beijing is very short, it is high and refreshing, with suitable temperatures. The annual activities of admiring red leaves and ginkgo biloba are particularly precious. The Ginkgo Avenue in Diaoyutai and the Fragrant Mountain with red leaves are both places that photography enthusiasts must visit.

Dressing Guidelines

In spring (March-May), the temperature is moderate with windy, sandy weather, so wear light jackets and face masks. In summer (June-August), temperatures are often above 30°C (86°F), with intense sunlight, so sun protection is essential. Some indoor air conditioning is very strong, so carrying a light jacket can be beneficial. In fall (September-October), sandstorms are common, so in addition to a heavy coat, face masks are necessary. In winter (November-February), temperatures can drop to -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F), so down jackets are a must and ladies should wear snow boots too. Also, northern winters are extremely dry, so southern ladies new to the area should always carry hand cream.

In spring, wear light jackets and face masks due to windy, sandy weather. In summer, temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F) with intense sunlight, so sun protection is vital. Carry a light jacket for strong indoor air conditioning. In fall, heavy coats and face masks are needed for sandstorms. In winter, temperatures can reach -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F), so down jackets and snow boots are essential. Northern winters are very dry, so southern ladies should carry hand cream.

Self driving

Twelve national highways radiate from Beijing like spokes, connecting to major cities including Shenyang, Tanggu, Harbin, Guangzhou, Zhuhai, Nanjing, Fuzhou, and Kunming.

G101 Jing-Shen Expressway: Beijing–Chengde–Shenyang, 858 km

G102 Jing-Ha Expressway: Beijing–Shenyang–Changchun–Harbin, 1231 km

G103 Jing-Tang Expressway: Beijing–Tianjin–Tanggu, 142 km 

G104 Jing-Fu Expressway: Beijing–Nanjing–Hangzhou–Fuzhou, 2248 km

G105 Jing-Zhu Expressway: Beijing–Nanchang–Guangzhou–Zhuhai, 2361 km

G106 Jing-Guang Expressway: Beijing–Lankao–Huanggang–Guangzhou, 2497 km

G107 Jing-Shen Expressway: Beijing–Wuhan–Guangzhou–Shenzhen, 2449 km

G108 Jing-Kun Expressway: Beijing–Xi'an–Chengdu–Kunming, 3356 km

G109 Jing-Lasa Expressway: Beijing–Yinchuan–Xining–Lhasa, 3763 km

G110 Jing-Yin Expressway: Beijing–Hohhot–Yinchuan, 1063 km

G111 Jing-Ji-Ga Expressway: Beijing–Ulanhot–Jagdaqi, 2034 km

G112 Jing Ring Expressway: Beijing Ring Expressway, 942 km

With highways spanning the country, road tripping from Beijing provides access to diverse landscapes and far-flung destinations.

Network

Here is a suggested paragraph about internet access in Beijing for an English travel website:Getting Online in BeijingFree Wi-Fi is widely available at many public places across Beijing, including libraries, museums, shopping malls, cafés, and restaurants. If you need internet access on the go, try visiting one of these spots to connect for free.Major hotel chains often provide free Wi-Fi in the lobby or business centers even for non-guests. McDonald's and Starbucks are reliable options that offer free Wi-Fi without any purchase required. Coworking spaces provide Wi-Fi along with seating and desks for a small fee. For unlimited data when touring Beijing, get a local SIM card or rent a pocket Wi-Fi device at the airport upon arrival. This will allow internet access from your own smartphone or laptop anywhere in the city. Be sure to compare plans ahead of time to get the best deal on data.With abundant free networks and affordable SIM card options, staying connected online in Beijing is convenient for travelers.

Emergency call

Here is a suggested paragraph about safety tips in Changhua, Taiwan for an English travel website:Staying Safe in Changhua, TaiwanChanghua is generally very safe, but you should take some basic precautions. Keep valuables secured and be alert in public areas to prevent petty theft. A special note for Southern Taiwan including Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Kenting - avoid discussing politics as tensions can run high in this region. However, southerners are usually still very warm and friendly, even towards mainland Chinese tourists.Use common sense, take care of belongings, and avoid political conversations in the south. Following basic safety measures will allow you to fully enjoy your travels in Changhua and the rest of Taiwan.

Medical treatment

Here is a suggested paragraph about safety tips in Changhua, Taiwan for an English travel website:Staying Safe in Changhua, TaiwanChanghua is generally very safe, but you should take some basic precautions. Keep valuables secured and be alert in public areas to prevent petty theft. A special note for Southern Taiwan including Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Kenting - avoid discussing politics as tensions can run high in this region. However, southerners are usually still very warm and friendly, even towards mainland Chinese tourists.Use common sense, take care of belongings, and avoid political conversations in the south. Following basic safety measures will allow you to fully enjoy your travels in Changhua and the rest of Taiwan.

Embassy and consulate

The embassy district in Beijing is located around the Sanlitun area. This neighborhood is a flourishing commercial hub with a large foreign population. Many embassies, high commissions, and consulates are situated along the streets surrounding Sanlitun. Some of the major ones include the US Embassy on Tianze Lu, the UK Embassy on Guanghua Lu, the Australian Embassy on Sanlitun Dong Er Jie, and the Canadian Embassy on Dongzhimenwai Dajie. The area has excellent international schools and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Western cafes, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers cater to expatriates living in the district. Visitors can easily walk around the embassy quarter and experience diverse global cultures blended into modern Beijing. With many multilingual signposts and English speakers, it provides a comfortable environment for foreign tourists staying nearby.

Safety considerations

When at crowded places like train stations, bus terminals, and metro stations, keep a close eye on your belongings to prevent theft. Areas with high tourist traffic like Tiananmen Square also attract scammers, so tourists should be wary of unlicensed guides demanding money upfront. Avoid handing over any cash to solicitations on the street. Use registered taxi companies like the red Beijing taxis whenever possible. Keep valuables secured and hidden, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be alert in public transportation hubs and tourist sites. When needing assistance, go to authorized help points like the Beijing Tourist Information booths rather than individuals roaming the streets. Beijing is a generally safe city if simple precautions are taken. Report any incidents or suspicious activities immediately to the nearest police officer. They can also provide directions and other help. Enjoy sightseeing, but remain aware of the surroundings.