Itinerary 5 days for exploring Beijing

 Here's a detailed five-day itinerary for exploring Beijing, China's historic capital. The itinerary covers top attractions each day with dining options for lunch and dinner, as well as accommodation suggestions close to the areas visited.

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Day 1: The Forbidden City & Tiananmen Square

Itinerary and History

1. Tiananmen Square:

   
   
   
   • History: Built in 1415, Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares globally and holds great significance in modern Chinese history. It has witnessed numerous historical events, including the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
   • What to Know: See highlights such as the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the National Museum of China. Be aware that security is strict, and visitors must go through checkpoints.
   • Tips: Arrive early to witness the flag-raising ceremony. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot.

2. The Forbidden City:

   

   History: Once the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties (from 1420–1912), this UNESCO site is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. It housed 24 emperors and boasts nearly 1,000 buildings.
   • What to Know: The palace is vast, with highlights including the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, and the Imperial Garden.
   • Tips: Book tickets online in advance, as the daily visitor limit is strict. Allow at least 2–3 hours for exploration.

3. Jingshan Park:

   
   
   
   • History: Built from the excavated soil of the Forbidden City’s moat, this man-made hill offers incredible views over the palace complex.
   • What to Know: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City. It’s especially stunning at sunset.
   • Tips: Visit here after the Forbidden City for photos, and bring a camera with a good zoom to capture the palace from above.

Lunch Options (near the Forbidden City)

1. TRB Forbidden City – $40–$70 per person: Fine dining experience offering European-inspired dishes with a view of the Forbidden City.
2. Beijing Pie – $10–$20 per person: Known for its local Beijing-style meat pies.
3. Siji Minfu Roast Duck – $20–$30 per person: Famous for its Peking duck; an authentic taste of Beijing.
4. Da Dong Roast Duck – $50–$80 per person: Modern Chinese restaurant with a reputation for high-quality Peking duck and creative dishes.

Dinner Options (near Tiananmen Square)

1. Made in China – $30–$60 per person: Located in the Grand Hyatt, offering classic Beijing dishes and Peking duck.
2. Xihe Yayuan – $20–$40 per person: Known for traditional Beijing and Sichuan dishes.
3. Zhang Mama – $10–$20 per person: Spicy Sichuan-style restaurant with a casual atmosphere.
4. Quanjude Roast Duck – $30–$50 per person: A historic spot specializing in Peking duck.

Accommodation Options

1. The Peninsula Beijing – $250–$400/night: Luxury hotel close to the Forbidden City.
2. Beijing Hotel NUO – $150–$250/night: Historic hotel with classical Chinese decor.
3. Novotel Beijing Peace – $80–$150/night: Comfortable mid-range option.
4. Happy Dragon Courtyard Hostel – $20–$50/night: Budget-friendly hostel with a welcoming atmosphere.

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Day 2: Temple of Heaven & Hutong Tour

Itinerary and History

1. Temple of Heaven:

   
   
   
   • History: Built in 1420, the Temple of Heaven served as a sacrificial altar where emperors prayed for good harvests. Its architecture symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth, making it one of the most sacred sites in Chinese history.
   • What to Know: Notable spots include the Circular Mound Altar, Echo Wall, and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.
   • Tips: Visit early for a serene experience and watch locals practicing tai chi in the park.

2. Qianmen Street:

   
   
   
   • History: Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, Qianmen Street is a bustling shopping area and was a key trading route in old Beijing.
   • What to Know: Stroll along for souvenirs and snacks, and admire the historical architecture that retains its traditional charm.
   • Tips: Try traditional snacks and take photos of the old-style trams.

3. Hutong Tour:

   
   
   
   • History: Hutongs are traditional alleyways that represent Beijing’s historical lifestyle. Areas like Nanluoguxiang provide insight into the daily lives of Beijing’s residents during the imperial eras.
   • What to Know: Hutongs offer a unique glimpse into Beijing’s history, with hidden temples, courtyards, and lively street scenes.
   • Tips: Book a guided tour or rickshaw ride to learn about hutong culture and history.

Lunch Options (near Temple of Heaven)

1. Baikui Laohao – $15–$25 per person: Famous for Beijing-style lamb hot pot.
2. Jing Yaa Tang – $30–$60 per person: Upscale spot with a stylish interior, serving traditional Chinese cuisine.
3. Old Beijing Noodle House – $5–$15 per person: Budget-friendly spot specializing in Beijing noodles.
4. Red Wall Garden Restaurant – $25–$40 per person: Cozy restaurant with local and international dishes.

Dinner Options (near Nanluoguxiang)

1. Mercante – $20–$40 per person: Authentic Italian restaurant in a hutong.
2. The Courtyard – $50–$100 per person: Upscale dining with views of the Forbidden City’s moat.
3. Wenyu Nailao – $5–$10 per person: A traditional dessert shop famous for Beijing-style yogurt.
4. Dali Courtyard – $30–$50 per person: Yunnan-inspired cuisine in a hutong courtyard setting.

Accommodation Options

1. The Opposite House – $250–$400/night: Modern luxury hotel in Sanlitun.
2. Beijing Red Wall Garden Hotel – $100–$180/night: Charming boutique hotel in the hutongs.
3. Holiday Inn Express Beijing Dongzhimen – $60–$120/night: Great value with easy access to central areas.
4. Peking Youth Hostel – $20–$50/night: Budget hostel located in a hutong area.

Day 3: Summer Palace & Olympic Park

Itinerary and History

1. Summer Palace:

   
   
   
   • History: Built in 1750 and later restored in 1888, this vast imperial garden served as a retreat for emperors. The Summer Palace includes beautiful pavilions, bridges, and Kunming Lake, a man-made lake symbolizing eternal peace.
   • What to Know: Key sites include the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense.
   • Tips: Rent a boat on Kunming Lake in the summer or take a guided tour to understand its rich symbolism.

2. Olympic Park:

   
   
   
   • History: The 2008 Beijing Olympics left behind the iconic Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube, both masterpieces of modern architecture.
   • What to Know: Explore the Olympic Park for unique photo ops and admire the stadiums, which are illuminated beautifully at night.
   • Tips: Evening visits offer a great view with lights. There are also guided tours inside the Bird’s Nest if you want a closer look.

Lunch Options (near Summer Palace)

1. Xinjiang Red Rose – $15–$25 per person: Authentic Xinjiang dishes with unique flavors.
2. Jin Ding Xuan – $10–$20 per person: A casual dim sum restaurant popular with locals.
3. La Jia Da Pai Dang – $10–$15 per person: A traditional Beijing restaurant with lively decor.
4. Lotus in Moonlight – $30–$50 per person: Elegant restaurant offering Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine.

Dinner Options (near Olympic Park)

1. Schoolhouse Canteen – $20–$40 per person: Farm-to-table eatery close to the park.
2. Quanjude Olympic Village – $30–$50 per person: Another branch of the famous Peking duck restaurant.
3. Xibei Youmian Cun – $10–$20 per person: Northeastern Chinese cuisine with noodles and hearty dishes.
4. Blue Frog – $20–$30 per person: Western-inspired casual dining with burgers and cocktails.

Accommodation Options

1. Crowne Plaza Beijing Zhongguancun – $120–$200/night: Convenient for the Summer Palace.
2. Beijing Yuyang Hotel – $100–$150/night: Near the Olympic Park with great amenities.
3. 7 Days Inn Beijing Summer Palace – $40–$80/night: Budget option with good location.
4. 365 Inn Beijing Olympic Park – $20–$40/night: Hostel with easy access to Olympic Park.

Day 4: Great Wall (Mutianyu Section)

Itinerary and History

• Mutianyu Great Wall:
  
  
  
• History: Built in the mid-6th century and reinforced during the Ming Dynasty, the Mutianyu section is one of the best-preserved parts of the Great Wall, designed as a military defense system to guard against invasions. With fewer crowds and well-maintained watchtowers, it’s ideal for experiencing the grandeur of the Wall.
• What to Know: Key features include the watchtowers and the lush scenery surrounding the wall, particularly beautiful in spring and autumn.
• Tips: Take the cable car up for scenic views, and try the toboggan slide for a fun way down. Bring water and snacks, as options on-site are limited. Early morning visits are less crowded and cooler in the summer months.

Lunch Options (near Mutianyu)

1. The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu – $20–$40 per person: Farm-to-table dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
2. Mr. Yang’s Farmhouse – $10–$15 per person: Traditional rural dishes served by a local family.
3. Xin Shuang Quan – $15–$25 per person: Chinese restaurant near Mutianyu known for its dumplings.
4. Brickyard Retreat Restaurant – $25–$50 per person: Offers Chinese and Western options with scenic views.

Dinner Options (back in Beijing)

1. TRB Hutong – $50–$80 per person: Upscale restaurant in a restored temple.
2. Little Yunnan – $10–$20 per person: Yunnan-style dishes in a cozy setting.
3. King’s Joy – $40–$70 per person: High-end vegetarian restaurant with elegant decor.
4. Xiaodiao Pear Soup – $10–$15 per person: Known for pear soup and other northern Chinese delicacies.

Accommodation Options

1. Brickyard at Mutianyu – $200–$300/night: Charming boutique hotel close to the Great Wall.
2. Beijing Marriott Hotel Northeast – $150–$250/night: Comfortable, luxury option.
3. Mutianyu Great Wall Inn – $40–$80/night: Budget-friendly option close to Mutianyu.
4. Backpacker Great Wall Inn – $20–$50/night: Basic but affordable, close to Mutianyu.

Day 5: Lama Temple & 798 Art Zone

Itinerary and History

1. Lama Temple:

   
   
   
   • History: Also known as Yonghe Temple, it was originally built as a residence for Prince Yong in 1694 and later converted to a Tibetan Buddhist temple. The complex features beautiful statues, incense burners, and the iconic 18-meter Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood.
   • What to Know: The temple is still active, so be respectful of worshippers. Highlights include the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Hall of Harmony and Peace, and the large Maitreya Buddha statue.
   • Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds, and consider purchasing incense to make a traditional offering.

2. 798 Art Zone:

   
   
   
   • History: Originally a factory complex, the 798 Art Zone was transformed in the early 2000s into Beijing’s art district, showcasing contemporary art, graffiti, sculptures, and studios. It’s now one of the most dynamic cultural spaces in Beijing.
   • What to Know: Wander through galleries and studios, enjoy the outdoor installations, and explore cafes with creative atmospheres.
   • Tips: Allocate at least a few hours to explore. Many galleries have rotating exhibitions, so check ahead for current events.

Lunch Options (near Lama Temple)

1. Crescent Moon – $20–$40 per person: Uyghur restaurant with unique flavors from China’s northwest.
2. King’s Joy – $40–$70 per person: Elegant, high-end vegetarian dishes.
3. Beiping Machine Dumpling – $10–$20 per person: Affordable and tasty dumplings.
4. Haidilao Hot Pot – $20–$40 per person: Popular hotpot restaurant chain.

Dinner Options (near 798 Art Zone)

1. Green T. House Living – $50–$100 per person: Art-inspired fusion cuisine in a unique setting.
2. FEAST by EAST Beijing – $30–$60 per person: Offers an array of international dishes.
3. At Café – $10–$20 per person: Cozy café with pastries and light meals.
4. 1949 – The Hidden City – $40–$70 per person: Contemporary Chinese dishes in a trendy, industrial space.

Accommodation Options

1. EAST Beijing – $150–$250/night: Stylish hotel in 798 Art Zone.
2. NUO Hotel Beijing – $100–$200/night: Luxurious and art-focused.
3. Hotel Jen Beijing – $80–$150/night: Modern and mid-range, with a vibrant feel.

Peking Youth Hostel (for the budget-conscious) – $20–$50/night: Comfortable and close to the city center.

This five-day tour provides a comprehensive experience of Beijing’s cultural, historical, and modern highlights. Enjoy exploring!