Things to do in Beijing, China
Recommended
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Walk the Great Wall of China
Crowds are a definite issue with the Great Wall: at popular sections at popular times, it becomes not the Great Wall of China, but rather the Great Wall of Tourists. It is possible to rent a taxi for ¥400-800 for the round trip including waiting time. You may want to bring a jacket against the wind or cold in the chillier season - in the summer you will need lots of water, and it will be cheaper if you bring your own.
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Bike Beijing
- You can rent bicycles throughout the city and then get a decent map and pick your way through the backstreets (be prepared to get lost, but that's half the fun!).
- Alternatively, Cycle China can organize guided rides on decent quality bikes.
- Cycle China, 12 Jingshan East Street (opposite Jingshan Park East Gate); +86 10 6402-5653
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Traditional Chinese massage
Sightseeing, shopping, hiking, eating and drinking all take it out of you after a while, but fortunately in Beijing a remedy is always close at hand! There’s an abundance of TCM clinics, massage parlors and spas which can de-stress your days and help your health from as little as ¥60 an hour. The choices listed below are worth visiting.
- Beijing Massage Hospital (+86 10 6616 8880) at 7 Baochan Hutong in Xicheng specializes in tuina therapy performed by blind masseurs, but they also perform acupuncture and moxibustion.
- Dragonfly has several branches offering great Chinese massages, shiatsu and aromatherapy. Prices are high by Beijing standards, but still great value given the five-star experience offered. There’s a branch near the Forbidden City at 60 Donghuamen Jie (+86 10 6527 9368) and another on the ground floor of the Eastern Inn on San Litun Nan Lu (+86 10 6593 6066).
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Shopping for clothing at the Beijing Zoo market
There are several clothing malls around, but don’t waste your time. Go straight to the one at the basement (Julong Fuzhuangcheng,) – you can find an entrance next to the McDonald’s. Can’t really negotiate and bargain – because they are offering quite a good price compared to other places already. Â The place closes at 3 so go there early.
