One of the most populated cities in the world with more than 21 million residents, Beijing is the home of the 2022 Winter Olympic Games –
and hosted the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. It is world renown for its
stunning architecture, both ancient and contemporary. Here visitors can
tour the splendor of The Forbidden City, the expanse of Tiananmen
Square, and the vastness of the Great Wall of China.
For a more intimate look at daily life, there are the hutongs, neighborhoods of ancient narrow alleyways where daily life unfolds. Here
visitors can explore private residences, gardens, workshops, vendors,
and public baths.
One thing visitors are advised to prepare for is the city’s notorious air pollution. Be sure to monitor the levels, which can rise
and fall with the weather. Reserve outdoor activities like gardens and
temples for good air days and indoor activities like museums on bad air
days.
