A Day In Beijing - What To Do?

Patriotism Is Alive And Well - Tired Of Getting Her Photo Taken

Beijing is full of culture and history. Everything you see has monumental significance to Chinese culture and the government is doing their best to preserve their cultural heritage.

If you only have a day in Beijing I recommend going straight to Tiananmen Square as it is the center of China's government. Tiananmen means "Gate of Heavenly Peace", a gate in the wall of the Imperial City, was built in 1415 during the Ming dynasty. Tiananmen Square was founded on October 1, 1949 by the People's Republic of China.

Across the street is the Forbidden City where you can go into the first portion for free if you are on a budget.

There is so much to see right in this are to include: the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, and the Monument to the People's Heroes.

But, if you don't have time for everything, I encourage you to walk or ride to Jingshan Park and hike to the top of the hill. From there you can view all of the city and the cost is under $2.00 to get in. By walking or riding you will also experience some of the Hutong's (older housing and shops).

Bikes are located all over the city that you can rent for very cheap and leave them at designated areas along the way without having to return them. At Jingshan park you will not only see beautiful gardens, but you will experience the culture as there are people singing, and dancing throughout the park. It's one of my favorite places because you can get away from the crowds.

And when you need to rest there are benches and rocks everywhere to sit. They have snack bars, but I like to go back outside and find a small comfortable restaurant as the food is so delicious and affordable. 

It's difficult to catch a taxi from the square, but you will see areas outside of the park to catch a taxi or if you feel alert jump on a bike and head back to the square for the subway. 

It's important to note that you need to take your passport to get into many of the exhibits in Beijing. If you only have a day, this is your best bet for a wonderful Chinese experience.