Exploring Xi Jinping's Bedroom in 3 Days

  • Day 1:
    • Tiananmen Square: Begin your tour with a visit to the iconic Tiananmen Square, the heart of Beijing and the site of many important events in Chinese history. Don't miss the daily flag-raising ceremony at sunrise! (1-2 hours)
    • The Forbidden City: Located adjacent to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City offers a glimpse into the opulent lives of Chinese emperors. Explore the imperial palace complex and admire the intricate architecture and design. (3-4 hours)
    • Hutong Neighborhoods: Take a rickshaw ride through the traditional hutong neighborhoods, where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life and sample some delicious street food. (2-3 hours)
  • Day 2:
    • The Great Wall of China: A trip to Beijing wouldn't be complete without visiting the Great Wall. Choose a section that suits your physical ability and experience the awe-inspiring views. (4-5 hours)
    • Summer Palace: With its tranquil lakes, beautiful gardens and grand palaces, the Summer Palace is a perfect place to unwind after the exertion of climbing the Great Wall. Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake and visit the Long Corridor with its paintings and calligraphy. (3-4 hours)
    • Peking Duck Dinner: No visit to Beijing is complete without trying the famous Peking duck. Head to one of the city's renowned restaurants to enjoy this delicious delicacy. (1-2 hours)
  • Day 3:
    • The Temple of Heaven: This majestic temple is one of the most important historical landmarks in China, where emperors used to pray for good harvests and prosperity. Admire the stunning architecture and the intricate details of the surrounding gardens. (2-3 hours)
    • The National Museum of China: Get a glimpse into the rich history and culture of China with a visit to the National Museum of China. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day. (2-3 hours)
    • Beihai Park: End your trip with a relaxing walk through the beautiful Beihai Park, where you can enjoy the tranquil scenery and the traditional Chinese architecture. (1-2 hours)

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Tiananmen Square (1-2 hours, free)
  • The Forbidden City (3-4 hours, ¥60)
  • Hutong Neighborhoods (2-3 hours, ¥100 for rickshaw ride)
  • The Great Wall of China (4-5 hours, ¥150 for entrance fee)
  • Summer Palace (3-4 hours, ¥80)
  • Peking Duck Dinner (1-2 hours, ¥200)
  • The Temple of Heaven (2-3 hours, ¥30)
  • The National Museum of China (2-3 hours, free)
  • Beihai Park (1-2 hours, ¥10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ¥630

Transportation

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways and taxis, and it's relatively cheap compared to other major cities. The subway is the most convenient and affordable way to get around, and the price varies based on the distance traveled. Taxis are plentiful, but it's important to make sure the meter is running to avoid overcharging. Hiring a private car or driver is also an option, but it can be more expensive. Travel costs can range from ¥2-¥20 for the subway and ¥20-¥50 for the taxi.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can consider visiting other attractions like the Ming Tombs or the Temple of Confucius. If you have less time, you may need to skip some of the attractions, prioritize your must-see sites, or explore them at a faster pace. It's also important to wear comfortable shoes, dress appropriately for the weather and bring plenty of water, as there can be a lot of walking involved.

0