The capital of the People’s Republic of China is bound to overwhelm any outsider. The sprawling yet symmetrical metropolis dresses in shopping centers, office towers, modern hotels, palaces and temples. China’s political center lies here with a strict communist social order. Capital beginning in 1421, Beijing can’t shake its past, present and future.
The heart of Beijing beats strong throughout Tiananmen Square. The world’s largest public square contains a number of the city’s famed sites and attractions. The Chairman Mao Memorial Hall holds Mao Zedong’s preserved body on display. The Forbidden City can also be found in the square. It was built in the 15th century. The impressive complex holds halls, gardens, courtyards and pavilions. The Forbidden City was even home to 24 emperors for the Ming and Qing dynasties. A UNESCO stamped and approved site maintains a collection of priceless relics, paintings, and pottery. Visitors will also see Qianmen Gate and the Great Hall of the People while in Tiananmen Square.
On the northwestern suburbs of Beijing, travelers will uncover yet another impressive palace. Summer Palace functioned as the royal court’s retreat. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Summer Palace exudes imperial excellence. Set on the shores of Kunming Lake, small islands connect with idyllic bridges.
China’s largest temple complex resides in the city of Beijing. The Temple of Heave was constructed in the 15th century. Mostly used as a place for the emperor to pray for a good harvest, visitors will easily recognize the site with its roofs sparkling in blue glazed tiles. The Temple of Heave is another of Beijing’s UNESCO sites. The Lama Temple may not be the size of the Temple of Heave, but it is important nonetheless. The 17th century temple served as a learning center for the Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Lamaism. Monks still call the temple their residence, weaving throughout its halls and courtyards daily.
The world famous Beijing Zoo is a must for animal lovers. While the Zoo is not entirely accommodating to its caged guests, it is home to the giant pandas, known all throughout the world. Trees, grass and lakes framed by willows make for a natural setting in the middle of a chaotic city. The Beijing Zoo is also home to the Beijing Aquarium.
Beijing can’t hide is overprotective, communist side, even when going underground. Beijing Underground City was constructed due to alarmist predications of a nuclear war with Russia. The bombproof tunnels are covered in warehouses, hotels and restaurants today. Another reminder of the city’s past comes on Drum Tower and Bell Tower. Both were used to warn citizens of curfews and the time of the day. Today, they lend visitors ideal vantage points for viewing Beijing from above.
The communist political power in Beijing is still very prevalent, but that doesn’t mean the city is limited in terms of culture, history, and modernity. Beijing remains one of China’s ancient cities, forever marked in confidence, aspiration, and a propensity to push things towards the future.
