Few cities have served as the cultural and political centre of an area as large as China for so long; and while the likes of Rome and Constantinople have faded in their influence, Beijing is perhaps more important than ever. There is hardly a building in this historic capital that doesn’t have some national significance, yet fourteen million people inhabit this increasingly modern metropolis.
There are over 100 public gardens and museums, several world heritage sites – including the famous Forbidden Palace – and state of the art sports and conference facilities that are the legacy of perhaps the most spectacular Olympics ever held. Exploring the outskirts can be just as rewarding, for an experience of Chinese cultures and subcultures that have remained essentially unchanged in hundreds of years and whose laid back, simple outlook is a welcome contrast to the western conception of fast-paced city life.
Where to stay
The newly constructed Fairmont hotel is housed in a magnificent building and is just as magical on the inside. The Park Plaza is equally as impressive with a central location and wide range of facilities. The Holiday Inn is another great choice that maintains the Chinese reputation for excellent service.
Where to eat
Da Dong Roast Duck and Dali Courtyard are two examples of the great Chinese food on offer, but there are excellent restaurants in many districts. Capital M has a more worldly menu and the Schoolhouse has a definite European flavour.
What to see
The Forbidden and Summer Palaces are both impressive sites on the UNESCO world heritage list, as are the Temple of the Heaven and the Imperial Tombs. Trips to the Great Wall are also straightforward. Hias Gourmet organise excellent culinary tours within the city and Jingshan Park is full of community life on a Sunday.
