Beijing, China’s capital is one of the oldest cities in the world that holds both modern and ancient architectures. Alongside with is massive number of population, the busy lands of Beijing also has tons of attractions that a tourist wouldn’t want to miss. Seeing Beijing is truly one of the most stunning, awe-inspiring and remarkable experiences that I had in my life.
The vast land of Beijing and its daily pack of crowd will immerse you in a unique yet beatifying culture. I’ve only got to spend a week in Beijing but the experience already left a mark on my soul. I couldn’t even forget how the wind feels on my cheeks: cold that it pierces deep through my skin, but there was an ineffable bliss. I couldn’t forget the smell of the atmosphere: similar to the air after the New Year’s Eve. I couldn’t forget how Chinese people varied: from the most outlandish to the most down to earth looking people of the street. Most of all, I couldn’t forget how whimsical the city is: an extraordinary part of the world where the pinnacle of ethnicity, historical lands and modern world emerged as one flawlessly, triggering a poignant admiration.
My week of adventure in Beijing wasn’t enough to see and discover all of its wonders. However, these are the top 3 places that took my breath away. You might also want to see the places for yourself:
Great Wall
This is unquestionable, if you’re going to China, you should not miss its Great Wall. We know that the Great Wall has played a profound role in history, therefore it’s a once in a lifetime experience to be in the same place. Climbing the wall also has a significant spiritual meaning to the locals. They say that once you climb the Great Wall you’ll get back as a changed and enlightened person. However, for most people, they do it for the experience and the view. In Beijing, there are numerous passages to the wall that are all open to the public. If you desire to see the most popular and restored part of the Wall, hike the Badaling section. I was lucky to have family and friends who accompanied me, but if you plan to take the adventure by yourself, you have the options of taking a bus, or a taxi from the North Railway. Do not forget to bring your hiking materials, and choose clothes that are appropriate for the weather. Hiking during winter could be a tougher challenge, so suite up those warmers.
Beijing World Park
Beijing World Park is located in Dabao Village, Huangxiang Town, southwestern Fengtai District. Though it is quite old, since it was opened to the public in September 1993, most of the attractions are still well-preserved. This tourist spot is where I had fun the most. It has brought out the child in me. With an area of 46.7 hectares, it has about 100 natural and cultural attractions from about 50 countries. This is where you can find the replicas of the world’s most popular destinations such as the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Canyon, Statue of Liberty, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Notre Dame, the Temple of Luxor, and many more! We visited Beijing World Park during winter and it was intensely cold, so I suggest that you wear your warmest clothes so you can enjoy to the fullest. Taking pictures was also the most exciting part of the tour, so don’t forget to bring your cameras.
Lama Temple
Though there are several temples in Beijing, lama temple is one of the most significant divine places that shouldn’t be missed. Also known as Yonghegong, lama temple was the former palace of Emperor Yongzheng when he was still a prince. After he came to the throne (Emperor Yongzheng), he changed his old residence into a temporary palace called “Yonghegong” in 1725. In 1744, his successor, Emperor Qianlong turned the palace into a lama temple. Currently, lama temple is a known Tietan Buddhist sanctuary that receives hundreds of people daily. The temple is a quiet and solemn place, where historical artifacts would also be seen. You can see huge sculptures and figures of Buddhist Gods and philosophers. You will also get to know the history of the place by reading the writings on the wall. The temple’s decals are stunning. The sculptures are intricately made. The lama temple has an inspiriting ethereal vibe that brings serenity to the heart. Anyone who desires to experience the divinity of the temple could take the subway as the easiest mode. You could either take subway line 2 or Line 5 and get off at the stop of “Yonghegong”, exit from the Exit C. Turn left and walk along the sideway for about 450meters.