Photography: Xinhuanet
Besides the Great Wall and Forbidden City, there's plenty to enjoy in China's capital. While the majestic palaces and imposing temples are every bit as resplendent as we imagined, quaint alleyways (hutong) littered with artsy souvenir shops charm us. Chic restaurants and bars are all over fast-gentrifying neighbourhoods, and shopping gets more sophisticated with multi-storey mega-malls.
A place where old meets new, there is never a dull moment in this multifaceted city. You'll meet all sorts of colourful characters from the classy well-heeled fashion folk of Sanlitun to the rude cabbies!
When to go
If you love street festivals, Beijing offers a feast for the eyes and ears all year round. In February, most temples in China celebrate Chinese New Year. This is a time when you can catch lion dances and stilt-walking performances, as well as an extensive array of festive treats and traditional arts and crafts on the streets.
The Beijing Xuannan Cultural Festival, held between September and October in homage to the city's cultural heritage, features theatrical performances, poetry gatherings, fairs and exhibitions. Late September is also when the Beijing International Tourism Cultural Festival takes over Ping'an Street, where locals dress in their traditional best and stage a grand parade. In October, there is a large chrysanthemum show for all to enjoy.
Where to stay
Whether its luxe rooms in the city or rustic lodgings in the suburbs, Beijing offers a diverse range of accommodations from large five-star chains to cosy boutique hotels. Centrally located luxury hotels, all within walking distance to the main shopping belt and tourist attractions, include The Regent, Grand Hyatt and St. Regis.
A visit to the old area of Beijing warrants a stay at a courtyard hotel — a chance to experience hutong living. DuGe Courtyard Boutique Hotel, with its bold and bright décor, offers just that, albeit with a modern twist. Each suite follows a different theme, from the whimsical pink palette of the Tibetan Kingdom to the subtler hues of The White House or The Bamboo.
Nature lovers will enjoy a tranquil stay at Commune by The Great Wall, a modern home away from home comprising 42 villas dotted over small hills. Located on the Badaling side of the Great Wall, the Commune's breathtaking views and private access to an untouched portion of the Great Wall are definite plus points.
Out and about
Besides history and culture, Beijing also offers an impressive selection of dining options and shopping spots. Wangfujing is a large pedestrian square flanked by mega-malls like Oriental Plaza, APM Plaza, and souvenir complexes like Beijing Arts & Crafts Central Store, which carries gold and jade jewellery, ceramics, calligraphy and more.
A walk through the Dong Hua Men night market in Wangfujing is a must, so you can snack on skewered mutton, deep-fried dumplings, and for the brave — "stinky" tofu and deep-fried scorpions! Just a stone's throw away is the famous Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant, serving Peking duck and an extensive menu of Oriental delights.
Drop by Nanluoguxiang — one of the oldest alleyways in Beijing and now home to kitschy cafés and vintage shops. If you enjoy a good bargain, snag great buys at the Silk Market, a multiplex downtown where clothes and souvenirs are aplenty. For something more upscale, head to The Village at Sanlitun, home to designer labels like Alexander Wang and Maison Martin Margiela. The chic stretch of yuppie bars and cafes in this area draws crowds at night.
For a romantic evening stroll, take your other half to Shichahai Bar Street at Houhai Lake. This scenic walkway by the waterside is lit up with red lanterns, while bars beckon with "live" acoustic music. Walk to the back of Xieyandai Street to do a little souvenir shopping, and when you get peckish, there's an abundance of Eastern and Western eateries where you can enjoy a good meal or light snacks.
