Top 5 Attractions
Beijing's most impressive Tibetan Buddhist temple has five main halls and various interesting galleries to explore, with English speaking guides available for private tours The Pavilion of Ten Thousand Fortunes is particularly a must-see, boasting the 26-meter high Maitreya Buddha. An active temple, 500 monks reside there providing a glimpse into the monastic life.
NO.2 The Great Wall
It doesn't get more scenic than the Great Wall. Three choices are available: Badaling, an hour from the city, the most convenient and thus most popular part of the Wall; Mutianyu, further and more spectacular (and also a more demanding hike); and Simatai, remote and generally unrestored. All three have cable cars operating for those looking for a less arduous way to see the spectacular views.
NO.3 Summer Palace
This imperial retreat dates from 1153, but only took its present form in 1750 when Emperor Qianlong had it built for his mother as a birthday present. It was from here that the Empress Dowager ruled for a few years at the start of the twentieth century. More a park than a palace, the beautiful lakes, bridges, halls, and temples make this a place to spend at least half a day, either leisurely rowing a boat on the lake in the summer; or gliding across the frozen waters in winter.
NO.4 Temple of Heaven
Built with feng shui principles in mind, visitors can content themselves with a walk around the impressive temple grounds. Highlights are the Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Echo Wall, where whispers supposedly travel across the courtyard.
NO.5 Ming Tombs
Thirteen of the Ming Dynasty's 16 emperors are buried outside Changping, about 50 km north of Beijing. It is advisable to rent a car as transport is needed to travel between tombs. Flanked by stone sculptures of imperial advisors and various animals, a 'spirit way' takes visitors up the 7 km to the major two restored tombs. From there, you can hike or drive to the unrestored tombs and even visit a traditional walled village.
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