Beijing Travel Guide

Beijing is the capital of the most populous country in the world, the People's Republic of China, and also its second largest city after Shanghai.

It was also the seat of the Ming and Qing dynasty emperors until the formation of a republic in 1911. Beijing is the political, educational and cultural centre of the country and as such it is rich in historical sites and important government and cultural institutions.

The city is... (more)

The city is well known for its flatness and regular construction. There are only three hills to be found in the city limits. Like the configuration of the Forbidden City, Beijing has concentric "ring roads", which are actually rectangular, that go around the metropolis.

Beijing was host to the 2008 Summer Olympic Games.

Beijing has a total of 16 districts and 2 counties.

The four central districts are located within or just beyond Ring Road Two. This is the location of the old walled city of Beijing and is where you will find most of the sights and also a good deal of sleeping, eating and drinking and entertainment options. The districts are:

The next four districts are also fairly close to the centre. They are often referred to as the inner suburbs. This is were you will find parts of the Western Hills, universities, Olympic venues, business and embassy areas, entertainment and bars as well as art districts. The districts are:

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