MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Beijing

Things to Do in Beijing

Beijing China Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Beijing's surroundings hold opportunities for adventure and connecting with nature.

Hiking & Trekking

Mutianyu Great Wall

Offers moderate hiking on well-restored sections. You can use a cable car or chairlift for easier access.

Badaling Great Wall

From easy to intermediate, paved, however very crowded.

Jinshanling/Simatai Great Wall

These sections are more challenging, feature less restored portions, and require good fitness for long-distance hiking.

Other Outdoor Activities

  • Water Sports: Enjoy boating or paddle boating on the Shichahai Lakes and the Summer Palace lake during warmer seasons.
  • Adventure Sports: Experience a fun toboggan ride down from the Mutianyu Great Wall.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Visit the Beijing Zoo to see giant pandas and other animals.
  • Cycling: Cycle around the hutongs, along the Shichahai lakes, or in larger parks. Mountain biking is an option in areas like Fragrant Hills.

Adventure Sports

  • Toboggan ride at Mutianyu.
  • Hiking challenging Great Wall sections.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Beijing Zoo for giant pandas.
  • Birdwatching in Olympic Forest Park.

Scenic Cycling

  • Hutong exploration by bike.
  • Rides along Shichahai lakes.
  • Mountain biking in Fragrant Hills.

Hiking Safety

When hiking the Great Wall, especially on less restored sections, wear appropriate footwear and carry water. Weather can change quickly.

Cultural Immersion

Engage directly with Beijing's rich cultural heritage via these immersive experiences.

Workshops & Classes

  • Calligraphy workshops for artistic expression.
  • Classic Chinese painting classes.
  • Dumpling making classes for culinary skills.
  • Tea ceremonies for cultural insight.

Cultural Performances

Peking Opera 京剧

Experience this classic Chinese opera, renowned for its elaborate costumes, stylized singing, and intricate makeup.

Acrobatics Show

Witness spectacular displays of agility, balance, and strength.

Kung Fu Show

Watch martial arts performances that highlight skill and discipline.

Community Tourism

Some hutong tours create opportunities to interact with local residents or visit their homes, a more intimate cultural exchange.

Language Learning

Short-term Mandarin classes are available at various language schools if you wish to learn a number of simple phrases to enhance your travel.

Food Festivals & Events

Occasional food festivals occur throughout the year, especially around federal holidays. Check local listings for specific dates and venues.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find tranquility and rejuvenation amidst Beijing's bustle.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Numerous luxury wellness centers at hotels and independent wellness centers.
  • Offering traditional Chinese massage, foot reflexology.
  • Various other treatments for relaxation.

Natural Therapy & Healing

Hot Springs

Some hot spring resorts exist in the outskirts of Beijing (e.g., Chunhuiyuan, Jiuhua Spa & Resort), offering a relaxing escape.

Yoga & Meditation

While limited within the city center, options are available in the surrounding areas for those seeking retreats.

Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM

Explore TCM clinics offering acupuncture, herbal medicine, and cupping for an unique health experience.

Additional Wellness Options

Hotel Pools

Many luxury hotels feature impressive indoor pools, ideal for bathing and unwinding.

Public Swimming Pools

Available during the summer months to refreshing dips.

Outdoor Activities

Parks offer tranquil spaces for walks, tai chi, or simply unwinding in the middle of nature.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Beijing gets busy after dark having different entertainment options.

Live Music & Theater

  • Live Music Venues: Discover live music bars in Sanlitun (e.g., Blue Note Beijing for jazz) and the Houhai area, offering various genres.
  • Theater & Performance Spaces: The National Center for the Theater And dance (NCPA) and other theaters host plays, musicals, and heritage performances.
  • Traditional Shows: Peking Opera, Acrobatics, and Kung Fu shows provide cultural entertainment.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs & Dancing

Concentrated in Sanlitun, offering various options for dancing and late-night fun.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Sanlitun Bar Street is known for its lively atmosphere. Houhai offers more relaxed, traditional bars. Gulou also holds unique spots.

Late-Night Entertainment

Karaoke (KTV) is extremely popular in Beijing and provides a fun group activity, often open late.

Sanlitun Vibes

A modern and bustling district known for its fashion, dining, and evening entertainment.

Houhai Charm

Presents a more laid-back atmosphere with scenic lakeside bars and cafes, ideal for chilling out evenings.

Gulou Discovery

Features a mix of traditional hutong bars and trendy new spots, offering a blend of old and new Beijing.

Night Safety

Be careful in crowded areas and late at night. Arrange reliable transportation, like licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Shopping & Markets

From traditional handmade items to luxury brands, Beijing has varied shopping experiences.

Traditional Markets & Bazaars

  • Panjiayuan Flea Market: A huge weekend market for antiques, collectibles, arts, crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Liulichang Culture Street: A traditional street specializing in The chinese language calligraphy, painting, and art supplies.
  • Artisan Workshops: Find unique artisan workshops and handcrafted goods in hutongs plus purpose-built markets.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Look for silk products, local teas, traditional Chinese paintings, jade, cloisonné, and traditional clothing.

Luxury & Ethical Shopping

Luxury Shopping

Oriental Plaza (Wangfujing), SKP Beijing (Chaoyang), and Taikoo Li Sanlitun offer high-end multinational brands.

Boutique Shopping

Sanlitun Village (North and South) and some hutong areas include boutique shops with special items.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Be mindful of potential fakes while you are shopping in markets. Purchase precious items from reputable stores. Support local artisans directly.

Shipping Information

  • Inquire with vendors about international shipping services.
  • Ensure proper documentation for larger purchases.

Customs Guide

  • Be aware of customs regulations and duties for items.
  • Declare high-value items upon re-entry to your nation of origin.

Authenticity Check

  • For valuables like jade, always buy from reputable, certified stores.
  • Request authenticity certificates where applicable.

Effective Shopping Tips

Market Haggling
  • In flea markets, haggling is expected; start with a significantly lower offer.
  • Be polite and ready to walk away if the price remains too high.
Quality & Fakes
  • Carefully inspect items for quality, especially in busy bazaars.
  • For valuable purchases, opt for reputable, established stores to avoid fakes.

Shopping Insight

Combine market going to visit nearby hutong exploration for a full cultural experience. Stay aware of your belongings in crowded areas.

Activity Planning Summary

Before You Go

  • Research your interests and prioritize must-do activities.
  • Book popular tours, classes, and performance tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Book GetYourGuide tours here.
  • Check local event schedules and as the festival is to fit with your visit.
  • Plan your daily itineraries geographically to minimize travel time.

During Your Stay

  • Embrace local culture; participate in traditions.
  • Try a variety of food from the area, from street snacks to fine dining.
  • Stay flexible with your plans; unplanned discoveries enhance travel.
  • Dedicate time for leisurely strolls and spontaneous exploration.