Choose from 76 Fun Things to Do in Northern China
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Chaoyang Park
Built in 1984 on the site of a former imperial palace, Beijing’s Chaoyang Park is the largest park in the city and a great place to spend a morning or afternoon relaxing or people watching. The 714-acre (289-hectare) space includes 20 designated scenic spots as well as the venue for the 2008 Beijing Olympics beach volleyball competition.
The park is divided into several themed areas. You’ll find a collection of European-style fountains and sculptures in Art Square, aquatic plants and trees in Ecological Valley and wild ducks on Binshui Island on Lotus Lake. The beach volleyball venue was converted into a bathing beach after the Olympics, complete with white sand imported from Hainan.
Besides the usual park activities, you can rent bicycles and a variety of boats for exploring the 168-acre (68-hectare) lake situated within the park. You’ll also find facilities for basketball and a few amusement park rides geared toward kids.
The park is divided into several themed areas. You’ll find a collection of European-style fountains and sculptures in Art Square, aquatic plants and trees in Ecological Valley and wild ducks on Binshui Island on Lotus Lake. The beach volleyball venue was converted into a bathing beach after the Olympics, complete with white sand imported from Hainan.
Besides the usual park activities, you can rent bicycles and a variety of boats for exploring the 168-acre (68-hectare) lake situated within the park. You’ll also find facilities for basketball and a few amusement park rides geared toward kids.
Address: Chaoyang Park, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Mar 15 - Nov 14: 6am - 10pm; Nov 15 - Mar 14: 6am - 9pm.
Admission: CNY 5, CNY 8 (Monthly), CNY 80 (Yearly)
From $ 65
Confucius Temple
The Confucius Temple, located in the heart of Qufu city, is the oldest and largest temple of its kind within China. Along with the Cemetery of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion, the temple forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site collectively known as San Kong (meaning ‘The Three Confucian Sites’).
Built in 479 BC, shortly after Confucius’ death, the temple features an impressive 466 halls, pavilions, and other rooms that are surprisingly still intact. Over the years, alterations and expansions on the temple building have transformed it into a sprawling complex with nine rows of courtyards leading up to a statue of Confucius before the temple entrance.
The Great Accomplishment Hall forms the main basis of the building, which features another statue of Confucius and a stone inscription of the Ming Dynasty, with various images depicting the story of Confucius.
Practical Info
The Confucius Temple and the other Confucius sites are situated in the city of Qufu in the southwest of Shandong Province. The Confucius Temple and the Kong Family Mansion are situated in one area, with the cemetery just a short taxi ride away.
Address: Banbi St, Qufu, Jining, Shandong, China, China
From $ 73
Antiquarium of the Palace Museum
Inside the walls of the Forbidden City complex—a vast museum in its own right—sits the Antiquarium of the Palace Museum. This collection is divided into galleries based on art form and features artifacts such as including paintings, clocks, pottery, furniture, and figures made of jade and bronze, some dating back to the days when Qing emperors roamed the halls and gardens of the Forbidden City. A look at the possessions of these Chinese emperors is a great way to get an idea of their enormous wealth and status.
Among the many notable artifacts is the Nine Dragon Screen, a colorful glazed brick wall—one of three of similar styles in China (the other two are in Beihai Park and Datong). Other exhibits worth a visit are the Treasure Gallery (inside the Palace of Tranquil Longevity) and the Clock Exhibition Hall (inside the Hall for Ancestry Worship).
Practical Info
The Antiquarium of the Palace Museum is located along the eastern side of the Forbidden City. The galleries are housed in the buildings to the east and west of the Meridian Gate entrance. Additional fees may apply for some exhibits.
Did You Know? Many of the ornate clocks on display in the Antiquarium were actually made in Great Britain.
Address: 4 Jingshan Front Street, Beijing, Northern China 100009, China
Hours: 8:30am–5pm
Admission: 10 RMB
From $ 69
China Aviation Museum
The China Aviation Museum is the largest of its kind in Asia. This huge facility, located in an old air force base, is an aircraft enthusiast’s dream, but is also fascinating for anyone with an interest in engineering or the military. The museum is also family-friendly, with various attractions and games for the kids.
Located around 50 kilometers north of central Beijing, close to several sections of the Great Wall, the China Aviation Museum makes for a great day trip from the city. There are hundreds of aircrafts and missile launchers of various makes to see, including various Russian and Chinese crafts, as well as two British Spitfires and a US Starfighter.
The museum features a large U-shaped underground hangar that used to shelter old warplanes, but is now filled with rows of planes and other exhibits. It was built with huge steel doors in case of nuclear attack.
Insider’s Tip: Battery-powered vehicles are available for those less able to walk around the museum’s vast site, while everyone else should be sure to wear comfortable shoes. To really appreciate the China Aviation Museum, it’s a good idea to read up on the history of aviation in China prior to your visit.
Practical Info
The China Aviation Museum is located at the foot of Xiao Tang Hill in Changping District, around an hour’s taxi ride from central Beijing. To reach the museum by public transport, take Line 5 of the subway to Tiantongyuan Station and then change to bus number 643.
Address: Xiaotangshan, Beijing, China
Hours: 8:30am-5:30pm Tuesday-Sunday
Admission: Outdoor exhibits: Free / Indoor exhibits: CNY50
From $ 52
Back Lakes (Hou Hai)
Beijing has modernized so rapidly that it’s hard to imagine what it must have been like in decades past. One neighborhood, however, has managed to hold on to its old-style hutong architecture: the Back Lakes (Hou Hai or Houhai). Named after the three Shichahai lakes in the area, the Back Lakes neighborhood is one of the last remaining places in Beijing where you can see traditional courtyard-style houses.
While wandering the hutongs allows visitors to see Beijing as it once was, the streets surrounding the lakes, particularly Hou Hai (the largest of the three) show you a modern, hip and multicultural side of Beijing. The banks are lined with shop, stalls, restaurants, bars and hookah dens catering to tourists, locals and the city’s sizable expatriate population alike, making it a fun and bustling place to browse for souvenirs. The breeze from the lake offers a respite from the heat, and boating activities are also available on the lake itself.
The best way to enjoy the Back Lakes area is to take a pedicab tour of the old hutong neighborhoods in the afternoon. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the lake before settling in to a table at a restaurant or bar balcony for dinner and drinks as you watch the world go by.
While wandering the hutongs allows visitors to see Beijing as it once was, the streets surrounding the lakes, particularly Hou Hai (the largest of the three) show you a modern, hip and multicultural side of Beijing. The banks are lined with shop, stalls, restaurants, bars and hookah dens catering to tourists, locals and the city’s sizable expatriate population alike, making it a fun and bustling place to browse for souvenirs. The breeze from the lake offers a respite from the heat, and boating activities are also available on the lake itself.
The best way to enjoy the Back Lakes area is to take a pedicab tour of the old hutong neighborhoods in the afternoon. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the lake before settling in to a table at a restaurant or bar balcony for dinner and drinks as you watch the world go by.
Practical Info
Houhai is located in the Xicheng District of central Beijing. The nearest subway station is Beihai North on Line 6, and there are a number of bus routes also serving the area.
Address: Houhai, Xicheng, Beijing, China
From $ 14
Beijing Opera
Beijing Opera (Peking Opera) has been around since the late 18th century and was originally performed for the imperial family of the Qing Dynasty. It has enjoyed something of a revival since the Cultural Revolution, with visitors from around the globe coming to see the highly stylized costumes, dances, and singing.
The Basics
While Beijing Opera—much like Western opera—is a bit of an acquired taste, it’s well-worth experiencing during your time in the Chinese capital. Beijing hosts several theaters and performance troops, including the newbie-friendly Liyuan Theatre at the Beijing Qianmen Hotel and the more traditional Huguang Guild Hall.
The most popular way to enjoy a performance is in combination with a Peking duck dinner. In addition to dining on one of the city’s most famous dishes, you can also combine your night at the opera with a nighttime walking tour of Nanluoguxiang Alley and historic Shichahai, or a full-day visit to sites, such as the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, or Summer Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Beijing Opera is a must-see for music lovers, couples, and first-time visitors.
- Performances can be quite loud, so bring a pair of earplugs if you’re sensitive.
- Beijing Opera performances are almost always in Mandarin Chinese, but the elaborate makeup, costumes, and gestures help add context for English speakers.
- Guided tours to an opera performance often include hotel pickup and drop-off.
How to Get There
There are several theaters hosting traditional Peking opera performances throughout the city. The easiest and most convenient option is to book a guided tour with round-trip transportation included.
When to Get There
Chinese opera performances typically take place in the evening around 7pm and last about 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the production. It’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to find your seat.
It’s All in the Beard
Beijing Opera can be a bit mystifying for the first-timer, but there are many visual cues to help you understand what’s going on onstage. For example, the type of a performer’s beard can indicate the temperament of the character—ghosts and those with hot tempers often have red beards, while villains sport curly beards. Short beards demonstrate selfishness, while long and thick beards are a sign of wealth and power.
Address: Beijing, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 59
Beijing National Stadium
Niaochao, more commonly referred to as the Beijing National Stadium or the Bird’s Nest, was designed and constructed for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and has since become a major landmark in China’s capital. Chinese artist Ai Weiwei consulted on the Swiss-designed project, and the result cost $423 million to complete.
Since the Olympics ended, the stadium has served as a tourist attraction and a venue for both international and domestic sporting competitions, including the Supercoppa Italiana and the China Cup. The stadium is set to host the 2015 World Championships in Athletics as well.
Niaochao is most impressive from the outside, where it’s bird’s nest shape is apparent. Situated on the Beijing Olympic Green, Niaochao is free to enjoy from the outside, but you’ll have to pay a fee if you want to enter the stadium. The Water Cube, the second prominent structure from the 2008 Olympics, sits adjacent to Niaochao and is also worth a visit.
Since the Olympics ended, the stadium has served as a tourist attraction and a venue for both international and domestic sporting competitions, including the Supercoppa Italiana and the China Cup. The stadium is set to host the 2015 World Championships in Athletics as well.
Niaochao is most impressive from the outside, where it’s bird’s nest shape is apparent. Situated on the Beijing Olympic Green, Niaochao is free to enjoy from the outside, but you’ll have to pay a fee if you want to enter the stadium. The Water Cube, the second prominent structure from the 2008 Olympics, sits adjacent to Niaochao and is also worth a visit.
Address: Bird's Nest, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Mar - Oct: 9am - 6pm, Nov - Feb 9am - 5:30pm.
Admission: Tours: Adult: CNY 50, Senior: CNY 25. Event Prices Vary
From $ 16
Beijing Bullet Train
China is home to the world’s largest network of high-speed rails, which connects Beijing with other notable destinations in the country. Quiet, fast, and efficient, bullet trains reach a top speed of 220 miles (354 kilometers) per hour. The longest route covers more than 1,200 miles (2,000 kilometers) from Beijing south to Guangzhou.
The Basics
Riding the high-speed railway from Beijing allows you to see Chinese countryside rarely glimpsed by visitors who opt to fly. What was once a minimum 9-hour trip between Beijing and Shanghai now takes just over five hours on the bullet train. The 5.5-hour train ride to Xian from Beijing is more economical than flying and just as fast once you factor in check-in and security lines. Many multi-day tours from Beijing to destinations such as Shandong, Shanghai, Pingyao, and Datong include at least one journey by bullet train.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The bullet train is a must for those who like to see some scenery while they travel.
- Confirm which station your train is departing from, as Beijing has more than one railway station.
- Choose business-class, first-class, or second-class seats.
- Most bullet trains offer electrical sockets and Wi-Fi.
- Most high-speed trains in China and the train stations where they stop are wheelchair accessible, including elevators to platform level.
How to Get There
Beijing bullet trains typically depart from Beijing South Railway Station. The easiest way to get there is to take Line 4 of the subway. There’s also an airport shuttle that connects Beijing Capital International Airport to the train station.
When to Get There
Bullet trains depart Beijing several times throughout the day to cities including Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, Kunming, and Chengdu. It’s a good idea to book ahead of time, particularly on weekends and Chinese national holidays, to ensure you get the departure you want.
Rail Line by the Numbers
China’s high-speed train network connects more than 200 cities in 32 of China’s 34 provinces. Tracks cover some 15,500 miles (25,000 kilometers), accounting for two-thirds of the world’s high-speed train tracks. The network is expected to reach 23,600 miles (38,000 kilometers) by 2025, linking all Chinese cities with a population over 500,000, including Hong Kong.
Address: Beijinh Railway, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Admission: Prices vary per train
From $ 474
Chang'an Street
Chang’an Street is a major thoroughfare to the north of Tiananmen Square in central Beijing. It stretches from West Chang'an Street to East Chang'an Street (although some refer to it as the entire route from the Shijingshan district through to Tongzhou district).
This huge, wide street is possibly the most famous in China, with many of Beijing’s most significant historical attractions located along it. The Great Hall of the People and Zhongnanhai, as well as central government buildings, are located around Chang’an Street, while the National Museum of China, National Center for the Performing Arts, and the Beijing Concert Hall are also close by.
Practical Info
Chang’an Street is centrally located and easily accessible, with subway and railway stations nearby. Line 1 of the Beijing Subway runs right beneath Chang’an Street, and there are also bus routes serving the roads that surround it.
Address: Chang’an Street, Beijing, China
From $ 16
Beijing Capital Museum
The Beijing Capital Museum, opened in 1981 and moved to its current location in 2006, houses a sizable collection of imperial Chinese art and artifacts, as well as Buddhist relics from several Asian countries. Five aboveground and two basement floors house more than 200,000 specimens, including over 5,000 pieces in the main exhibition hall alone. You’ll find bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, old coins, jade sculptures, Buddhist statues and textiles, with the oldest pieces dating back to the New Stone Age.
Be sure to visit the second floor History and Culture of Beijing gallery that traces the history of the city from its first primitive residents to a modern capital. Learn more about the culture in Old Beijing in the fifth floor Folk Customs of Old Beijing exhibit. The jade exhibit, also on the fifth floor, contains nearly 200 intricately carved jade pieces with magnifying glasses to allow you to see the detail.
Be sure to visit the second floor History and Culture of Beijing gallery that traces the history of the city from its first primitive residents to a modern capital. Learn more about the culture in Old Beijing in the fifth floor Folk Customs of Old Beijing exhibit. The jade exhibit, also on the fifth floor, contains nearly 200 intricately carved jade pieces with magnifying glasses to allow you to see the detail.
Address: No. 16 Fuxingmen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Tue-Sun: 9am - 5pm (No entry after 4pm); Closed Mondays (Except certain holidays).
Admission: Free tickets with Online reservation.
From $ 37
CCTV Headquarters
The China Central Television (or CCTV) Headquarters is situated within an unusually-shaped skyscraper in Beijing’s central business district. This seemingly gravity-defying structure was designed by the Dutch architect, Rem Koolhaas, and is made up of two leaning towers joined at the top and bottom, creating an irregular grid with an open center. The building’s distinct shaped has earned it the nickname, ‘Big Underpants’ among Beijing locals.
While visitors are not allowed access to the CCTV Headquarters, the outside of the building is an attraction in itself. Security remains tight, particularly after fireworks during the Chinese New Year festivities of 2009 caused a fire in the Television Cultural Center, which sits adjacent to the main building.
Practical Info
The CCTV Headquarters are located at 32 Dongsanhuan Middle Road in Beijing’s CBD. The nearest subway station is Jintaixizhao.
Address: 32 E 3rd Ring Rd Middle, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
From $ 36
Cemetery of Confucius
The Cemetery of Confucius contains the tomb erected in memory of Confucius, along with the remains of more than 100,000 of his descendants. Situated just north of the sage’s birthplace of Qufu in Shandong Province, the cemetery sits around two kilometers from the Confucius Temple and the Kong Family Mansion, which together make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The oldest graves at the cemetery date back to the Zhou Dynasty. Confucius’ tomb has gone through a few changes over the years, with the present-day tomb being in the form of a cone-shaped hill.
Practical Info
The Cemetery of Confucius and the other Confucius sites are situated in the city of Qufu in the southwest of Shandong Province. The Cemetery of Confucius is a short taxi ride from the other sites.
Address: Lindao Rd, Qufu, Jining, Shandong, China, China
From $ 73
Chaoyang Theatre
If you’re planning to see a Chinese acrobatics show while in China -- and you should, since the young acrobats here are wildly talented -- Beijing’s Chaoyang Theatre is one of the best places to do so. Young acrobats from across the country perform in the theater, spinning plates, balancing on precarious stacks of chairs, riding motorcycles upside down in a steel cage and performing other seemingly impossible feats of athleticism and strength.
More than 3 million foreign tourists have seen the performance over the course of its two-decade run in the Chaoyang Theatre. Performances last one hour and are typically held twice daily. Since the performances are largely visual, the language barrier isn’t an issue. Plan to take the metro to and from the show, as getting a taxi after a performance can be quite a feat.
More than 3 million foreign tourists have seen the performance over the course of its two-decade run in the Chaoyang Theatre. Performances last one hour and are typically held twice daily. Since the performances are largely visual, the language barrier isn’t an issue. Plan to take the metro to and from the show, as getting a taxi after a performance can be quite a feat.
Address: No. 36 E 3rd Ring Rd N, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
Hours: Daily: 5:15pm - 7:15pm.
Admission: Prices range per seat: CNY 120-775
From $ 34
Beijing Zoo
Some 500 different species of animals and more than 14,500 furry friends call the 220-acre Beijing Zoo home. This popular destination, which attracts roughly six million conservationists and nature-lovers alike is one of China’s oldest zoos and houses the largest collection of animals in the country.
Visitors can explore the expansive grounds and get up close to some of the nation’s rarest mammals, like the golden snub-nosed monkey or Siberian tigers. The zoo’s giant panda exhibit is without a doubt its most popular and the nearby aquarium draws travelers eager to check out wild life under the sea, too.
Practical Info
The Beijing Zoo is located in the Xicheng District and is accessible via a number of public bus lines. The zoo is open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. between April and October, and from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. between November and March.
Address: 137 Xizhimen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Daily April-Oct 7:30am-6pm & Nov-March 10am-5pm
Admission: 10-20 yuan (price varies per season)
From $ 30
Chairman Mao Memorial Hall (Maozhuxi Jiniantang)
The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall houses the remains of one of China’s most influential men, Mao Zedong, who was chairman of the Communist Party from its inception in 1943 until his death in 1973. Located to the east of Tiananmen Square near the Monument to the People's Heroes, the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is an important part of Beijing’s must-see tourist attractions.
The building itself is grandiose and imposing, featuring 44 granite posts and a yellow-glazed, double-eave roof. Inside, the body of the chairman lies draped in a Communist flag within a crystal cabinet, which is flanked by guards who keep the crowds moving. Security here is tight and bags and cameras will need to be dropped off to the east of the building before entry.
Practical Info
To Chairman Mao Memorial Hall is open from 7:30am until 1pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Guests should have a few spare Yen for baggage and camera storage and remember to take their passports.
Address: Tiananmen, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Tue-Sun 7:30am-1pm
From $ 29
Cuandixia Village
Travel back in time on a visit to the historic village of Cuandixia, which dates back to the famed Ming Dynasty. More than 500 well-preserved homes that date back thousands of years dot the landscape of this popular destination. Visitors looking to experience a taste of early life can opt to stay in one of these historic homes, since many of them now serve as travel lodges.
After wandering the cobblestone streets of the historic village, which include challenging outdoor staircases and quiet back alleys—head to the hillside where a network of scenic trails offers up epic views of Cuandixia Village that’s perfect for hikers looking to spend a day outdoors.
Practical Info
The village is located about 90 kilometers northwest of Central Beijing in the Jingxi Mountains. Visitors traveling by private car can access Cuandixia using National Road 109, or take bus 929 from Pingguoyuan subway station.
Address: Cuandixia, China
From $ 65
798 Art Zone
Located in northwest Beijing, 798 Art Zone occupies a decommissioned military factory from the 1950s that now houses an edgy artistic community. The Communist-era factories and warehouses of the complex have all been converted into galleries, studios, boutique shops and cafes whose modern and sometimes whimsical contents sit in stark contrast to the austere Bauhaus architecture.
Give yourself at least half a day to explore the 798 Art Zone. Start with the eclectic collection of sculptures, photographs and paintings at the Long March Space, one of the best collections in the area. Other notable galleries include the Chinese Contemporary with its politically minded collection, the 798 Photo Gallery and 798 Space, one of the largest galleries in the area.
Read up on art history at the well-stocked Time Zone 8 bookstore before stopping in at one of the cafes and restaurants in the district for lunch or a cup of coffee. If possible, time your visit to the 798 Art Festival in spring or the 798 Creative Art Festival in fall.
Give yourself at least half a day to explore the 798 Art Zone. Start with the eclectic collection of sculptures, photographs and paintings at the Long March Space, one of the best collections in the area. Other notable galleries include the Chinese Contemporary with its politically minded collection, the 798 Photo Gallery and 798 Space, one of the largest galleries in the area.
Read up on art history at the well-stocked Time Zone 8 bookstore before stopping in at one of the cafes and restaurants in the district for lunch or a cup of coffee. If possible, time your visit to the 798 Art Festival in spring or the 798 Creative Art Festival in fall.
Address: 798 Art Zone, No.4 Jiuxianqiao Rd., Chaoyang, Beijing, China
Hours: Open Daily: 10am - 5pm.
From $ 27
China World Trade Center
Nowhere is China’s rapid modernization more apparent than in Beijing at the China World Trade Center. Completed in 2010, the complex houses Beijing’s tallest skyscraper, the China World Trade Center Tower III, as well as upscale hotels, shopping complexes, apartments, convention space and office buildings.
The entire complex is also representative of China’s opening relations with the rest of the world. The China World Mall, located within the China World Trade Center, was one of the first places to sell imported brand name good in the country. The China World Exhibition Hall has hosted several high-profile trade shows since its opening.
From a tourist perspective, the China World Trade Center is perhaps best known as the home of the China World Hotel, Shangri-La's Beijing luxury accommodation offering. For shopping enthusiasts, the China World Mall houses an ice skating rink as well as retailers for brand names like Cartier, Prada, Gucci and E. Zegna.
The entire complex is also representative of China’s opening relations with the rest of the world. The China World Mall, located within the China World Trade Center, was one of the first places to sell imported brand name good in the country. The China World Exhibition Hall has hosted several high-profile trade shows since its opening.
From a tourist perspective, the China World Trade Center is perhaps best known as the home of the China World Hotel, Shangri-La's Beijing luxury accommodation offering. For shopping enthusiasts, the China World Mall houses an ice skating rink as well as retailers for brand names like Cartier, Prada, Gucci and E. Zegna.
Address: Beijing, China
From $ 67
Beihai Park (Beihai Gongyuan)
Part of the Forbidden City during the Qing Dynasty, this 10th-century park is one of China’s oldest, largest, and most important ancient imperial gardens. Situated in the center of Beijing, the 171-acre (69-hectare) garden features a temple, bell and drum towers, a white pagoda, pavilions, lakes, and the intricate Nine-Dragon Wall.
The Basics
Visiting Beihai Park is akin to taking a crash course in Imperial Chinese history and culture, and with its central location in the city’s Xicheng District, it’s easy to visit. Though the park is no longer part of the Imperial City, a boat ride here is often included in tours of the Palace Museum. Combine your visit to the park with a tour of the Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple, or Jingshan Park, or capture a memorable photo by donning a traditional Hanfu costume during a guided walk through the gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Beihai Park is a must-visit for history buffs, gardeners, and families.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Nearly all of Beihai Park is wheelchair accessible, with the exception of the hill.
- Give yourself about two hours to tour the park’s gardens and attractions.
How to Get There
Beihai Park is located next to the Forbidden City and is easily accessible by public transportation. Take one of several public buses to Beihai or Beihai Beimen, or take subway Line 6 to Beihai Bei and leave through Exit B.
When to Get There
The park is open daily throughout the year, with slightly shorter hours during the winter (November to March). Plan to visit on a weekday morning, when the gardens and attractions are less crowded, and avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays.
The White Dagoba
One of the park’s many unique features is a Tibetan dagoba, or shrine, built in 1651 by the first emperor of the Qing Dynasty to demonstrate a desire for unification among China’s many ethnic groups. The shrine has since been twice destroyed and rebuilt. Perched atop the highest point in the park, it offers some of the best panoramic views of the surroundings.
Address: Northwest of the Forbidden City, Beijing, China
From $ 16
Beijing Aquarium (Beijing Haiyangguan)
Situated within the Beijing Zoo, the Beijing Aquarium (Beijing Haiyangguan) is the largest inland aquarium in China and home to an impressive range of aquatic animals. The complex houses an Amazon rainforest pavilion where you can see live piranha and 100 other species of fish, a coral reef, a shark aquarium and a few marine mammal areas complete with sea lion and dolphin shows daily.
The 39-yard-long (36-meter) touch pool contains a variety of urchins and starfish, and 32 other tanks throughout the aquarium house sharks, sea turtles, jelly fish and other colorful sea creatures.
You can purchase tickets for the Beijing Aquarium at the zoo’s ticket counter. If you don’t mind missing the dolphin show, use that time to explore the museum when some 3,000 other visitors are crowded into the stadium.
The 39-yard-long (36-meter) touch pool contains a variety of urchins and starfish, and 32 other tanks throughout the aquarium house sharks, sea turtles, jelly fish and other colorful sea creatures.
You can purchase tickets for the Beijing Aquarium at the zoo’s ticket counter. If you don’t mind missing the dolphin show, use that time to explore the museum when some 3,000 other visitors are crowded into the stadium.
Address: Beijing Aquarium, Haidian, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Apr-Oct 9am - 5:30pm (last ticket at 5pm), Nov-Mar 10am - 4:30pm (last ticket at 4pm) .
Admission: Adult: CNT 130, Childen (1.2 meters/3.9 ft): Free. Aquarium Admission for Zoo and Panda Hall.
From $ 68