Morning: Tiananmen Square & Forbidden CityBegin at Tiananmen Square—photograph the National Flag and the majestic Tiananmen Rostrum before entering the Forbidden City (Palace Museum). Explore 600 years of imperial history: wander the Hall of Supreme Harmony, admire imperial jade collections, and walk along the marble Imperial Way. Allocate 3-4 hours; note that pre-booking tickets online is mandatory.
Afternoon: Jingshan Park & ShichahaiClimb Jingshan Park’s Wanchun Pavilion for a bird’s-eye view of the Forbidden City’s golden-tiled roofs. Later, stroll through Shichahai’s lakeside lanes—visit the historic Bell and Drum Towers (climb for daytime skyline views) and browse small shops selling traditional crafts.
Evening: Shichahai Night Cruise & Hutong LightsTake a night cruise on Shichahai Lake (available 18:30-21:00) to see the lake’s willow trees and traditional courtyard houses lit up by warm lanterns. Afterward, wander the nearby hutongs (e.g., 烟袋斜街 / Yandai Xiejie) — their red lanterns and cozy cafes create a magical, old-Beijing atmosphere. End with a snack of candied hawthorns (bing tang hulu) from a street vendor.
Morning: Mutianyu Great WallTravel 70km north to the Mutianyu Great Wall—one of its most scenic sections, with 22 watchtowers and lush forest surroundings. Hike for 2-3 hours, or take a cable car up and toboggan down for fun. Don’t miss the Great Wall Museum at the entrance to learn about its history.
Afternoon: Lunch & Olympic Park VisitReturn to the city for lunch (try northern Chinese dishes like lamb hot pot), then head to Olympic Park. Visit the iconic Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and Water Cube (National Aquatics Center)—walk around their exteriors and take photos of their unique architectures.
Evening: Olympic Park Night Light ShowStay until dusk to witness the Olympic Park Night Light Show (starts around 19:30, varies by season). The Bird’s Nest glows with orange and red LED lights, while the Water Cube transforms into a sparkling blue “bubble” structure. Walk along the Olympic Green to enjoy the full display—bring a tripod for long-exposure photos!
Morning: Temple of HeavenExplore the Temple of Heaven—a UNESCO site where Ming and Qing emperors prayed for good harvests. Admire the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (its circular blue-tiled roof is a masterpiece) and walk the Echo Wall (whisper against the wall, and your voice will carry to the other end!). Watch locals practice tai chi or kite-flying in the park’s green spaces.
Afternoon: Nanluoguxiang Hutong ExplorationDive into local life at Nanluoguxiang—a lively hutong lined with boutique shops, vintage stores, and snack stalls. Try local treats like stinky tofu (chou dou fu) or cheese strips (nai lao). Visit a traditional siheyuan (courtyard house) to learn about old Beijing’s residential culture.
Evening: Qianmen Street Night Tour & Peking Duck DinnerHead to Qianmen Street—a pedestrian street with restored 1920s-style buildings, lit up by red lanterns and neon signs at night. Take a ride on the vintage dangdang tram (a replica of old Beijing’s streetcars) to enjoy the street’s night views. Then, have a classic Peking duck dinner at Quanjude (Qianmen branch)—savor crispy duck skin wrapped in pancakes with sweet bean sauce.
Morning: Summer PalaceVisit the Summer Palace—China’s largest imperial garden and a UNESCO site. Cruise on Kunming Lake (take a dragon boat for a scenic ride), walk along the Long Corridor (adorned with 14,000+ paintings), and climb to the Tower of Buddhist Incense for lake views. Don’t miss the Marble Boat—a unique stone structure on the lake’s shore.
Afternoon: 798 Art DistrictExplore the 798 Art District—a former factory complex turned into a hub for contemporary art. Wander its red-brick lanes, visit galleries showcasing Chinese and international art, and take photos with colorful street murals. Shop for unique souvenirs like hand-painted ceramics or modern art prints.
Evening: 798 Art District Nightlife & Farewell DinnerStay in 798 until nightfall—many galleries and cafes stay open late, and the district’s industrial-style buildings are lit up with cool, artistic lights. Enjoy a casual dinner at a fusion restaurant (try Sichuan-style pizza or Beijing-style pasta) before heading to a rooftop bar for a farewell drink with city views.
- Timing: Most night attractions (e.g., Shichahai cruises, Olympic light shows) operate 18:30-21:30; check seasonal schedules online.
- Weather: In winter (Nov-Feb), nights are cold—bring warm coats, scarves, and gloves. In summer (Jun-Aug), carry a fan or water bottle.
- Transport: Subways run until 23:00; use Didi for late-night rides. Buy a Beijing Transportation Card for easy subway/bus access.
- Safety: Stick to well-lit areas (e.g., Qianmen, Shichahai) at night; keep valuables in a secure bag.
