Travel around Beijing with Bobby
Day 1Stepping Back in Time at the Forbidden City
Landing in Beijing, I immediately felt the vibrant energy of this bustling metropolis. After a quick check-in at my hotel near Wangfujing Street, I wasted no time and headed straight for my first stop: the Forbidden City. Entering through its massive gates, I found myself stepping into the grandeur of imperial China. The size of the palace complex is truly staggering, with every building adorned in intricate detail, and each courtyard holding centuries of history. I spent hours wandering through the maze-like corridors, trying to imagine the lives of emperors and their courts in such an awe-inspiring setting.
After immersing myself in the past, I grabbed a quick lunch at a nearby spot, where I tried zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste)—a local favorite that didn’t disappoint. From there, I headed to Jingshan Park, climbing to the top for an unbeatable panoramic view of the Forbidden City, with its sprawling rooftops stretching out beneath the skyline.
In the evening, I explored Wangfujing Street, one of Beijing’s top shopping areas, where the vibrant street food scene was in full swing. I even braved one of the more adventurous local delicacies: fried scorpions! It was a thrill to try something so out of the ordinary—definitely not for the faint-hearted, but when in Beijing, it’s all part of the experience!
If you're a history buff, give yourself plenty of time to explore the Forbidden City, as there's so much to take in. Don’t miss the view from Jingshan Park—it’s the perfect way to cap off your first day.
Day 2The Mighty Great Wall Adventure
Day two was dedicated to exploring one of the most iconic landmarks in the world: The Great Wall of China. I opted for a tour to the Mutianyu section, known for being quieter and less crowded than the more popular Badaling area. The drive out was scenic, with views of rolling hills, and when we arrived, I took the cable car up to the wall. Walking along the ancient stones, with breathtaking mountain views all around, was truly magical. I spent a few hours hiking, even tackling some of the steeper sections to fully immerse myself in the atmosphere of this historic wonder.
After the hike, we made a stop at a local restaurant on the way back to Beijing, where I enjoyed one of the best meals of my trip: delicious dumplings and succulent Peking duck. It was the perfect way to refuel after such a memorable experience. By the time I returned to the city in the evening, I was ready to relax, reflecting on the awe-inspiring history I had been a part of that day.
After hiking the Great Wall, I had a hearty meal of dumplings and Peking duck at a restaurant near Mutianyu. The crispy skin of the duck was unforgettable, and the dumplings were the perfect comfort food after a long day.
Food
The hotel continued to impress with its quiet atmosphere after a busy day of hiking. I appreciated the comfortable bed and quick room service, which made for a restful night.
Accomodation
The Great Wall at Mutianyu was the highlight of the trip. The views were breathtaking, and the hike was challenging but rewarding. Walking on this historical marvel is an experience that stays with you forever.
Activity
Don’t rush your visit to the Great Wall—take your time and enjoy the quieter spots. Bring plenty of water, and if you’re up for a challenge, try climbing the steeper sections!
Day 3Temple Hopping and Tea Tasting
After two action-packed days, I slowed things down with a more cultural focus on day three. I started with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, an architectural masterpiece where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The temple grounds are vast, and you can see locals practicing tai chi or playing games in the park. From there, I hopped on the Beijing subway (which, by the way, is super efficient and easy to use) and headed to the Lama Temple, a stunning Tibetan Buddhist temple with an air of tranquility.
After temple-hopping, I ventured into one of Beijing’s traditional tea houses. There’s nothing quite like sitting down for a proper tea ceremony, where the delicate flavors of jasmine, oolong, and pu’er unfold slowly, sip by sip. The host shared the story behind each tea, which made the experience even more enriching.
Dinner that night was at Dadong Roast Duck, famous for its crispy-skinned Peking duck. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the melt-in-your-mouth sensation of that first bite. Beijing really knows how to do food.
I visited Dadong Roast Duck for dinner, and the Peking duck was incredible—crispy on the outside and tender inside. The tea ceremony earlier in the day also stood out, with delicate flavors and an immersive cultural experience.
Food
The hotel’s location near a subway stop was super convenient as I moved around to various temples. The room remained clean and comfortable, which made it a pleasant retreat after a day of exploration.
Accomodation
Visiting the Temple of Heaven and Lama Temple was a peaceful yet enlightening experience. These sites are beautiful and offer a calm retreat from the busy city streets.
Activity
Make sure to visit the tea houses—they offer a peaceful break from the busy city. Also, the Temple of Heaven is an ideal spot for a morning stroll, especially if you love watching locals embrace their daily routines.
Day 4Lost in the Hutongs
On my fourth day, I took a deep dive into Beijing’s old-world charm by exploring the hutongs—narrow alleyways that showcase the traditional way of life in the city. I rented a bike (the best way to get around these charming streets) and spent the day getting lost in the labyrinth of courtyards, tiny shops, and cozy cafes. One of my favorite stops was Nanluoguxiang, a lively hutong filled with boutique stores and quirky art galleries.
Lunch was casual—a jiaozi (dumpling) spot I stumbled upon in the hutongs, where the atmosphere was just as delightful as the food. In the afternoon, I visited the Drum and Bell Towers, where I got a crash course in ancient Chinese timekeeping.
As the sun set, I went for drinks at Mai Bar, a popular hutong bar known for its creative cocktails and relaxed vibe. Sipping a craft cocktail in such an authentic setting was the perfect end to a laid-back day.
Exploring the hutongs, I stopped at a local dumpling shop for lunch and found the simplicity of the meal comforting. The evening drinks at Mai Bar were a perfect way to end the day—unique cocktails in an authentic setting.
Food
The hotel provided bikes for rent, which made exploring the hutongs more fun and convenient. The friendly staff even suggested some hidden gems to visit in the area.
Accomodation
Biking through the hutongs was an absolute highlight. It gave me a more intimate view of local life in Beijing and felt like a step back in time. Climbing the Drum and Bell Towers added an extra layer of history to the day.
Activity
Harajuku is the place to go for fun, quirky experiences. Balance the day by starting at Meiji Shrine to ground yourself, then jump into Harajuku’s wild energy.
Day 5Modern Marvels and Night Markets
For my final day in Beijing, I set out to explore the city’s modern side, starting with the 798 Art District. This cultural hotspot, once an industrial zone, is now packed with galleries, street art, and trendy cafes. It was amazing to see how contemporary art has found its place in a city steeped in history. After wandering through the artistic streets, I headed to Sanlitun, a bustling district known for its international vibe, sleek architecture, and great shopping. I picked up a few souvenirs, enjoying the district’s modern flair and lively atmosphere.
As night fell, I ventured to the famous Donghuamen Night Market, where stalls offered everything from skewered meats to sugar-coated fruit. The energy of the market was infectious, and the food was a treat for the senses. My favorite? The baozi—soft steamed buns filled with savory goodness. Ending my day here, surrounded by the buzz of Beijing’s street food scene, was the perfect way to wrap up my adventure in this dynamic city.
My last night in Beijing, I explored the Donghuamen Night Market and tasted a variety of street food, including delicious baozi (steamed buns). The variety and atmosphere of the market were an exciting end to the trip.
Food
The hotel’s proximity to modern districts like Sanlitun was ideal for shopping and nightlife. It wasn’t the most luxurious stay, but it was comfortable and well-located.
Accomodation
Visiting the 798 Art District and strolling through Sanlitun provided a perfect mix of contemporary art and modern culture. It was a refreshing contrast to the historical sites I had seen earlier in the trip.
Activity
Balance your time between old and new Beijing. While the historical sites are a must-see, the modern districts and art scenes offer a fascinating contrast that shouldn’t be missed.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Beijing was an exciting blend of history, culture, and modernity that offered a truly immersive travel experience. From exploring ancient landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City to sampling world-class cuisine and navigating the efficient public transport, the city left a lasting impression. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or someone looking for an authentic cultural experience, Beijing has something for everyone.
I had my first meal at a local restaurant near the Forbidden City, where I tried zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste). It was flavorful and a great introduction to Beijing’s local cuisine. The street food along Wangfujing, especially the fried scorpions, was a fun (and slightly intimidating) culinary adventure.
Food
My hotel near Wangfujing Street was clean, comfortable, and well-located, making it easy to access major sights. The room was spacious, and the staff was very helpful with recommendations. It was a great value for the price.
Accomodation
Visiting the Forbidden City and climbing Jingshan Park for that panoramic view of Beijing was an incredible way to start the trip. Both are must-see spots that give you a sense of the city’s history.
Activity