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Summary

This 3-day Beijing itinerary guides you through the city's historical marvels, from the iconic Tiananmen Square and the majestic Forbidden City to the serene Summer Palace. It includes a day trip to the Great Wall and the Ming Tombs, offering a deep dive into China's rich cultural heritage. Culinary adventures such as the traditional Peking duck dinner provide a taste of local flavors, making this itinerary a well-rounded exploration of Beijing.

🏯 Day One: Exploring Historic Beijing

Begin your Beijing adventure with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Jingshan Park, ending with a traditional Peking duck dinner.

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🏞️ Tiananmen Square

A vast and historically significant square in Beijing, known for its flag-raising ceremony. It is surrounded by important buildings including the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

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Tips

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Note the security checkpoints and be prepared to go through them before entering the square. Also, be mindful that lighters are not allowed and may need to be discarded at the security checkpoints.

Travel Information
📍   Address: China, Beijing, Dongcheng, 前门 邮政编码 - 100051

🏯 Forbidden City

A massive palace complex that served as the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty. It consists of 980 surviving buildings with 8,704 rooms and covers 180 acres. The architecture and cultural relics in the Forbidden City are invaluable and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Tips

Allow half-a-day for your visit to fully appreciate the grandeur and historical significance of this imperial palace. Purchase tickets online to save time and avoid long queues at the entrance.

🏞️ Jingshan Park

Offers stunning views over the Forbidden City, especially beautiful at sunset. The park is also home to the Wanchun Pavilion, a historical structure with a rich history and breathtaking views of the city.

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Tips

A 15-minute walk to the park’s highest point is rewarded with panoramic views. It's a perfect spot to capture memorable photos and enjoy the serene beauty of Beijing.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 10 6403 8098
📍   Address: 44 Jingshan W St, 景山 Xicheng District, Beijing, China, 100009

🍽️ Siji Minfu Restaurant

Renowned for its Peking duck, offering a traditional Beijing dining experience. The restaurant's ambiance and decor reflect the rich culinary heritage of Beijing, providing an authentic dining experience.

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Tips

Order a half duck per two people to savor the delicious Peking duck. Expect queues, but the wait is worth it for the exceptional culinary experience.

Travel Information
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: XC69+X62, Hepingli W St, Andingmen, Chaoyang, Beijing, China, 100029

🏯 Day Two: Great Wall and Ming Tombs

A day trip to the Great Wall at Mutianyu and the Ming Tombs, showcasing China's rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

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🏞️ Great Wall at Mutianyu

Mutianyu is a less crowded section of the Great Wall, nestled amidst lush greenery and offering a cable car and toboggan ride for a thrilling experience.

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Tips

To fully savor the tranquility and grandeur of the Great Wall, it's advisable to leave early and arrive just before the ticket office opens at 8 AM. Cash is essential for purchasing tickets and transportation.

Travel Information
🌐   Website: http://www.mutianyugreatwall.com/
📍   Address: CHM7+3JC, Mutianyu Rd, Huairou District, Beijing, China, 101406

🏛️ Ming Tombs

The Ming Tombs, a collection of mausoleums built by the emperors of the Ming dynasty, exude an aura of ancient grandeur and historical significance, providing a glimpse into China's imperial past.

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Tips

If time is limited, opt to visit one of the three tombs - Changling, Dingling, or Zhaoling. Don't miss the Sacred Way, a 2km stretch adorned with intricate animal statues and culminating in a majestic tower.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 10 6076 1422
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 764F+3C3, Changchi Rd, Changping District, China, 102200

🌃 Donghuamen Night Market

Donghuamen Night Market is a vibrant and bustling culinary paradise, offering a wide array of street food that tantalizes the taste buds and provides a glimpse into Beijing's vibrant food culture.

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Tips

While closed during Chinese New Year, this market is a must-visit for adventurous foodies, showcasing an eclectic mix of local delicacies and exotic treats.

🏞️ Day Three: Summer Palace Serenity

Conclude your Beijing journey with a visit to the tranquil Summer Palace, exploring its vast lake and beautiful gardens.

🏰 Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces in Beijing, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. The complex covers a large area with over 25 different parts to explore, including the 17 arch bridge, the marble boat, and the jade belt bridge. A walk around the lake will allow you to visit most of these, but could take a full day. The views from the tower of Buddhist Incense are breathtaking, providing a panoramic perspective of the entire palace grounds.

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Tips

To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the all-access ticket for a comprehensive experience. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the Summer Palace. Additionally, be mindful that the food options inside the palace are limited, so it's advisable to plan your meals accordingly. If you opt for the self-heating rice meals, be prepared for the overpriced convenience, as the food choices range from fancy hotel options to simple pot noodles.