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Beijing

Visit Beijing

Introduction

Complex and utterly compelling, China's capital is an intoxicating blend of old and new, a world powerhouse where cutting-edge innovation and ancient tradition are intertwined in the rich fabric of daily life and the dichotomies of modern China are laid bare to spectacular effect.

Tiananmen Square

Any trip to Beijing usually begins with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the vast concrete expanse at the heart of the modern city. This ‘Square of the Gate of Heavenly Peace' is still bordered by 1950s communist-style buildings – the Great Hall of the People and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution – and dominated by a giant portrait of Chairman Mao. It was here Mao hoisted the red flag proclaiming the foundation of the People's Republic and where he still lies in his marble memorial hall.

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City at the north end of Tiananmen Square has been the seat of Chinese imperial power since the Ming Emperor Yongle began ruling his dynasty from its heart around 1420. The Imperial Palace (Gugong) is China's most magnificent architectural complex and was built at the symbolic centre of the universe using the strict geomantic principles of yin and yang.

The Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven, or Tian Tan, is one of the largest temple complexes in China and has been at the heart of imperial ceremony and symbolism since its construction during the Ming Dynasty. It was here the emperor, or Son of Heaven, would make sacrifices and pray to his ancestors at the Winter Solstice. It is located 2 km south of Tiananmen Square.

Summer Palace

The sprawling Summer Palace outside Beijing served as a summer retreat for the Qing Dynasty and is most associated with the Empress Dowager Cixi, who used it as her personal pleasure ground. Highlights include the lakes and bridges, Marble Boat, Bronze Pavilion, and Longevity Hill.

 

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Top itineraries in Beijing

The summer Palace, Beijing

Best of China

18-day tailor-made holiday from £5,825 pp incl. flights

Take in the best of China on this introductory tailor-made holiday. You'll visit Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Guilin and Shanghai, with included touring bringing together this vast country's unique collection of landscapes, cultures and wildlife.

Top places to stay in Beijing

Raffles Beijing buffet

Raffles Beijing

Accommodation

The past, present and future of Beijing come together at Raffles, located in the heart of China's historic capital, just moments from the Forbidden City.

Meet our Beijing experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7590 0613

Meet the team

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0613 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

Visit us in our London office

Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
  • Established for over 50 years
  • Tailor a holiday to your precise requirements
  • Personalised quotes and documentation

Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

  • Dedicated personal consultants
  • Free airport lounges on qualifying bookings
  • Care and guidance pre, post and during holiday
  • Full financial security: ABTA & ATOL protected