Welcome to Beijing! This city is a fascinating mix of old and new – where ancient imperial palaces stand next to towering skyscrapers, and where you can sip tea in a centuries-old courtyard by day and party in a futuristic rooftop bar by night. Of course, you’ll probably visit the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace, and they’re absolutely worth it. But if you really want to feel the heartbeat of Beijing, you need to step beyond the usual tourist spots.
Beijing isn’t just about monuments and museums – it’s about the people, the food, the sounds, and the energy that make this city special. It’s the elderly practicing tai chi in the parks at sunrise, the sizzling aroma of street food in the hutongs, and the electrifying performances that bring China’s traditions to life. It’s a place where history isn’t just in books – it’s alive, in every alley and every bite of food you take.
1. Watch a Show – Peking Opera, Kung Fu, or Crazy Acrobatics
Beijing is famous for its theater culture, and trust me, these performances are worth checking out. You don’t even need to understand Chinese to enjoy them!
What to Watch:
- Peking Opera (Liyuan Theatre) – The makeup, the singing, the martial arts—it’s like ancient Beijing on stage.
- Kung Fu Show (Red Theatre) – Shaolin monks flipping through the air? Yep, it’s as cool as it sounds.
- Acrobatics Show (Chaoyang Theatre) – You won’t believe the crazy stunts these performers pull off!
Pro Tips:
- Get your tickets ahead of time, these shows sell out fast.
- If you sit in the front row, you might even see the actors’ sweat (seriously).
- Liyuan Theatre lets you put on opera makeup before the show – super fun!
2. Wander the Hutongs and Live Like a Local
The hutongs are the heart of old Beijing – narrow alleys with traditional courtyard homes. Life here is slow, and this is where you’ll find real Beijingers chatting, playing chess, and cooking in tiny street-side shops.
What to Do in the Hutongs:
- Ride a rickshaw – The fastest way to explore the maze-like alleys.
- Visit a local courtyard house – Some families even invite visitors in!
- Try a workshop – Learn Chinese calligraphy or make a traditional kite.
- Watch the locals – You’ll see old men playing mahjong, kids chasing each other, and vendors selling snacks from bicycles.
Best Hutongs to Visit:
- Nanluoguxiang – Hipster cafés mixed with history.
- Yandai Xiejie – Cool street for souvenirs.
- Guozijian Hutong – Right next to the Confucius Temple, super peaceful.
Tip: Morning is the best time to visit – grab a hot jianbing (Chinese crepe) and just watch the city wake up.
3. Experience a Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony
Beijingers take tea very seriously, and if you’ve never sat down for a proper Chinese tea ceremony, now’s your chance. It’s calm, beautiful, and full of tiny little rituals.
Best Places for Tea:
- Lao She Teahouse – Tea + Peking Opera performances.
- Maliandao Tea Street – The best place to buy real Chinese tea (not the touristy stuff).
- Wuyutai Tea House – Over 100 years old, still serving the best jasmine tea.
What’s Cool About It?
- Learn how to brew tea the right way (spoiler: it’s way more complicated than just adding hot water).
- Taste different types of tea – some are over 20 years old!
- Locals believe tea can heal your body – so tell them how you feel, and they’ll pick a tea for you!
4. Try Beijing’s Best Street Food
Forget fancy restaurants – street food is where the real flavors are. Some of Beijing’s best dishes are served from tiny stalls, and you gotta try them!
Must-Try Snacks:
- Jianbing – Beijing’s most popular breakfast, a crispy crepe stuffed with egg, sauce, and crispy bits.
- Tanghulu – Candied fruit on a stick, super nostalgic for locals.
- Lamb skewers (Chuan’r) – Spicy, smoky, and best eaten fresh off the grill.
- Douzhi – Fermented mung bean soup… super strong taste, only for the brave!
Where to Eat:
- Niujie Muslim Snack Street – The local’s choice. Every shop tastes terrific.
- Ghost Street (Guijie) – If you love spicy food, this is the place for late-night eats.
- Any random street corner – Seriously, some of the best food comes from unassuming little stalls.
Tip: If you see a long line of locals, that’s the place to eat.
5. Join a Tai Chi Class in the Park
Every morning, you’ll see elderly locals practicing tai chi in Beijing’s parks. It’s slow, meditative, and actually a great workout. Why not join in?
Best Places to Try Tai Chi:
- Temple of Heaven Park – The most famous spot, with amazing temple views.
- Beihai Park – Beautiful lakeside setting, perfect for a peaceful morning.
- Jingshan Park – Bonus: climb to the top for the best view of the Forbidden City!
Why It’s Awesome:
- Locals love when foreigners join in – they might even teach you for free!
- It’s a great way to slow down and experience local life.
- If tai chi isn’t your thing, you can also watch fan dancing, swordplay, or old men singing Beijing opera!
6. Experience Beijing’s Nightlife – From Hidden Bars to KTV
Think Beijing is just about temples? Nah, the nightlife here is insane. Whether you want to chill by the lake, dance in a club, or belt out songs at KTV (karaoke), there’s something for you.
Best Places for a Night Out:
- Sanlitun – Clubs, rooftop bars, international vibes.
- Gulou (Drum Tower Area) – Hidden speakeasies, live jazz, and cool little bars.
- Houhai Lake – Traditional-style bars with live Chinese music and a stunning night view.
What to Try at Night:
- KTV (Karaoke) – Rent a private room and sing your heart out!
- Craft beer at Great Leap Brewing – One of Beijing’s best microbreweries.
- Baijiu (Chinese liquor) – It’s strong (like, really strong), but hey, when in Beijing!
Tip: Most bars close late, but the subway stops around midnight – plan your ride home!
