Beijing Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
1. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing? Yes, most foreign nationals require a visa to enter China. However, some countries, like Australia and New Zealand (as of July 2024), may qualify for visa-free travel for stays up to 30 days. Always check the latest requirements with your nearest Chinese consulate or embassy.
2. What’s the best time to visit Beijing? The best times are generally spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) for comfortable temperatures and less rain. Avoid national holidays like Chinese New Year and Golden Week (Oct 1-7) due to large crowds.
3. How long should I plan for a trip to Beijing? 4-5 days is a good amount of time to see the main attractions. If you want to include day trips or explore more, consider extending to a week or more.
4. What currency is used in Beijing? The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB).
5. How should I pay for things in Beijing? While cash is still widely accepted, mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are dominant. Some larger hotels and businesses may accept Visa/MasterCard, but it’s not common in local restaurants or supermarkets.
6. Can I use my international credit card in Beijing? Generally, major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and Amex are not widely accepted in local establishments. It’s best to rely on cash or set up WeChat Pay/Alipay.
7. How do I get a local SIM card or e-SIM? You can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport or at telecommunication stores. Many travelers also opt for eSIMs for convenience.
8. What’s the time zone in Beijing? China operates on China Standard Time (CST), which is UTC+8. China does not observe daylight saving time.
9. Is Beijing safe for tourists? Beijing is generally very safe, even at night. Petty crime can occur in crowded areas, so be vigilant with your belongings.
10. Do I need to carry my passport everywhere? Yes, it’s advisable to carry your passport at all times as it’s often required for entry to attractions and for registration at hotels.
11. How do I register my stay in Beijing? You must register your stay within 24 hours of arrival at each hotel or residence. Hotels typically handle this for you. If staying in a private residence, you’ll need to register at the local police station.
12. What language is spoken in Beijing? Mandarin Chinese is the official language. English is less common outside of major tourist areas, hotels, and international businesses.
13. Are there English signs and translations? In major tourist areas and on the metro, you’ll generally find English signs and translations. However, in local neighborhoods, English might be limited.
Transportation
14. What’s the best way to get around Beijing? The Beijing Metro is the fastest, most affordable, and most convenient way to travel. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like DiDi are also widely available. Bicycles are great for exploring hutongs.
15. How do I use the Beijing Metro? You can buy single-journey tickets from vending machines or manned counters. For frequent travel, consider getting a Yikatong card (reloadable transportation card) or using mobile QR codes via Alipay/WeChat.
16. How much does the Beijing Metro cost? Fares are distance-based, starting from CNY 3 for the first 6 kilometers and increasing with distance.
17. Can I use my credit card for metro fares? Some metro stations are starting to accept international credit cards for contactless payments, but cash or mobile QR codes are more widely used.
18. What are peak hours for the metro? Avoid traveling during rush hours, typically 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM on weekdays, as trains can be very crowded.
19. How do I get a taxi in Beijing? You can hail metered taxis on the street (look for a green light on the dashboard) or use ride-hailing apps like DiDi.
20. Is DiDi (ride-hailing app) available for foreigners? Yes, DiDi is widely used and foreigners can register and use it.
21. How do I get from the airport (Beijing Capital or Daxing) to the city center? The Airport Express subway lines connect both Beijing Capital (PEK) and Daxing (PKX) airports to the city center. Taxis are also available.
22. Is it safe to take taxis at night? Yes, it’s generally safe. Always use official metered taxis with green plates and lit signs, or use a ride-hailing app.
Must-See Attractions & Activities
23. What are the top must-see attractions in Beijing? Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Great Wall (Mutianyu or Badaling), Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and Hutongs.
24. Do I need to book tickets in advance for attractions like the Forbidden City? Yes, it’s highly recommended, especially for popular attractions like the Forbidden City, as tickets often sell out. Book online.
25. Which section of the Great Wall should I visit?
Mutianyu: Less crowded than Badaling, with well-preserved sections, cable car, chairlift, and toboggan ride options.
Badaling: The most popular and easiest to access by public transport, but also the most crowded.
Jinshanling/Simatai/Panlongshan: Less restored, more adventurous, and far less crowded, but harder to get to.
26. How do I get to the Great Wall from Beijing? Organized tours are convenient. For Mutianyu, you can take a public bus or hire a private car. Badaling is accessible by train.
27. What are Hutongs and why should I visit them? Hutongs are traditional narrow alleys and courtyards that represent old Beijing. They offer a glimpse into local life, history, and unique architecture.
28. What can I do in the Hutongs? Explore on foot, take a rickshaw tour, enjoy local food, visit traditional houses, and discover hidden gems. Nanluoguxiang is a popular hutong area.
29. What is Tiananmen Square and its significance? Tiananmen Square is the world’s largest public plaza and holds immense historical and political significance in China.
30. What’s inside the Forbidden City? The Forbidden City is a vast imperial palace complex with numerous halls, courtyards, and gardens that served as the home of emperors for centuries.
31. Can I visit the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square on the same day? Yes, they are adjacent to each other and can easily be visited on the same day.
32. What is the Temple of Heaven? A complex of imperial temples where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer for good harvest.
33. What is the Summer Palace? A vast complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces, serving as a summer retreat for emperors.
34. Is it worth visiting the Olympic Green (Bird’s Nest)? The Beijing National Stadium (Bird’s Nest) is impressive from the outside. An inside tour might be pricey and not always worth it.
35. What is the 798 Art Zone? A vibrant art district housed in a former factory complex, featuring galleries, studios, cafes, and shops.
36. Are there any good museums in Beijing? Yes, the National Museum of China (on Tiananmen Square) is highly recommended for its vast collection focusing on Chinese history.
37. Should I see an acrobatic show or Peking Opera? Both are popular cultural experiences. Acrobatic shows are generally more visually spectacular and universally appealing, while Peking Opera requires some understanding to fully appreciate.
38. Where can I buy souvenirs in Beijing? Silk Market (Xiushui Street), Wangfujing Avenue, and Panjiayuan Antique Market (weekends only) are popular for shopping.
39. Is haggling common when shopping? Yes, especially at markets like the Silk Market, haggling is expected and encouraged.
40. What kind of items are good to buy as souvenirs? Silk products, tea, pearls, traditional crafts, and local snacks.
Food & Drink
41. What is Beijing’s most famous dish? Peking Roast Duck (Beijing Kao Ya).
42. Where can I try authentic Peking Duck? Quanjude and Dadong are well-known and highly-regarded restaurants for Peking Duck. Siji Minfu is also popular.
43. What other local dishes should I try? Zhajiangmian (noodles with fried bean sauce), Instant-boiled mutton (Mongolian hotpot), Jiaozi (dumplings), Donkey burgers, and Kung Pao Chicken.
44. Is street food safe to eat? Be cautious with street food. Opt for busy stalls with high turnover and good hygiene. Mall basement food courts are a safer option for cheap eats.
45. Are there vegetarian or vegan options in Beijing? Yes, some restaurants specialize in vegetarian cuisine, like King’s Joy. Many Chinese dishes are naturally plant-based, but always confirm ingredients.
46. What kind of drinks should I try? Tea is a must. You can also try local beers (Tsingtao, Yanjing) or craft beers from places like Great Leap Brewing.
47. What is the dining etiquette in Beijing? A noisy meal table is considered a happy one. Don’t be afraid to slurp noodles or make some noise while eating. Sharing dishes is common.
48. Are there good nightlife spots in Beijing? Yes, Sanlitun is known for its vibrant bar and club scene. Houhai Lake area offers a more relaxed atmosphere with lakeside bars.
49. Any specific bars or clubs recommended? Modernista (jazz/artsy vibe), The Tiki Bungalow (fun, tiki drinks), and Great Leap Brewing (craft beer). Mix Club is a popular nightclub.
Accommodation
50. What are the best areas to stay in Beijing for tourists?
Dongcheng District: Central, close to many historical sites like the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and hutongs.
Chaoyang District: More modern, home to Sanlitun for nightlife, and business districts.
Haidian District: Good for those visiting universities or the Summer Palace.
51. Are there hotels that don’t allow foreigners? Historically, some smaller hotels might not have the license to host foreign guests. However, hotels listed on major booking platforms like Ctrip or international chains generally accept foreigners. It’s always good to double-check.
52. What type of accommodation is available? From luxury hotels to mid-range chains (like Home Inn, Days Inn) and guesthouses/hostels.
53. Is it better to book accommodation in advance? Yes, especially during peak seasons, booking in advance is highly recommended.
54. What’s a good budget-friendly accommodation option? Mid-range Chinese hotel chains or hostels. Look for ones close to metro lines for easy access.
Communication & Internet
55. Will my phone work in Beijing? Ensure your phone is unlocked and consider getting a local SIM card or eSIM for data.
56. How do I access Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, etc. in China? These services are blocked in mainland China. You will need a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access them.
57. When should I get a VPN? Purchase and install your VPN before arriving in China, as it can be difficult to download once you are in the country.
58. Are free VPNs reliable? Free VPNs are generally less reliable and slower. Paid VPN services offer better performance and security.
59. Is Wi-Fi widely available? Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and some public places, but often requires a local phone number for registration.
60. What translation apps are useful? Google Translate (with VPN) or Baidu Translate. Download offline language packs.
Cultural Etiquette & Tips
61. What are some basic Chinese phrases to learn?
Ni hao (Hello)
Xie xie (Thank you)
Bu ke qi (You’re welcome)
Dui bu qi (Sorry)
Qing (Please)
Wo bu dong (I don’t understand)
Duoshao qian? (How much?)
62. Is it rude to bargain? At markets where haggling is common (like the Silk Market), it’s not rude; it’s part of the experience. For fixed-price stores, bargaining is generally not expected.
63. Are there any gift-giving etiquette rules? If invited to someone’s home, bring a gift like fruit, sweets, or tea. Avoid giving clocks (sounds like attending a funeral) or pears (sounds like separation). Avoid black and white colors for gifts (associated with funerals).
64. How should I address people? Shaking hands is common with strangers, especially foreigners. Don’t squeeze too tightly.
65. What about “face” (mianzi)? “Face” is a complex concept related to reputation, dignity, and honor. Avoid causing someone to “lose face” by criticizing them publicly or putting them in an embarrassing situation.
66. Is punctuality important? Yes, Chinese people generally value punctuality.
67. Is it okay to take photos of people? Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially children.
68. What about spitting in public? While less common now, you might still encounter people spitting in public. It’s not intended as an insult.
69. How should I use chopsticks? Never stick chopsticks upright in your rice bowl (resembles incense at funerals). Don’t point with chopsticks.
70. What is “kèqi” (客气) and “lǐmào” (礼貌)?
Lǐmào: Being polite in a respectful way (admirable).
Kèqi: Being overly polite or formal, which can imply a distance or hiding true feelings (not always a good thing).
Health & Safety
71. Do I need any vaccinations for Beijing? Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Consult your doctor for recommended pre-travel vaccinations.
72. Is the tap water safe to drink? No, it’s generally not safe to drink tap water in Beijing. Stick to bottled water.
73. What should I do if I get sick? Hotels can usually recommend a doctor or hospital. Major cities have international hospitals or clinics with English-speaking staff.
74. How can I avoid air pollution? Check air quality forecasts. On days with high pollution, limit outdoor activities and consider wearing a high-quality N95 mask.
75. What are common scams to watch out for? Tea ceremony scams, art student scams, and fake taxi drivers. Be wary of overly friendly strangers inviting you to private establishments.
76. What should I do if I encounter a problem with the police? Cooperate with authorities. Always carry your passport. Contact your embassy or consulate if needed.
Day Trips from Beijing
77. What are some popular day trips from Beijing? Great Wall (Mutianyu, Badaling, Jinshanling), Ming Tombs, Cuandixia Village, and Longqing Gorge.
78. How long does it take to get to the Great Wall? Travel time to Mutianyu or Badaling is typically 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bus.
79. Are there organized tours for day trips? Yes, many tour operators offer full-day or half-day tours to the Great Wall and other nearby attractions.
80. Can I do a day trip to Tianjin from Beijing? Yes, Tianjin is easily accessible by high-speed train (around 30 minutes).
Specific Scenarios & Tips
81. Tips for solo female travelers in Beijing? Beijing is very safe for solo female travelers. Stick to official taxis at night and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
82. Tips for traveling with children in Beijing? Many attractions are kid-friendly, like the Great Wall (toboggan at Mutianyu), Summer Palace (boat rides), and some theme parks. The metro is convenient for families.
83. How to deal with the crowds? Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Avoid national holidays.
84. What if I don’t speak Mandarin? Have hotel addresses and important phrases written down in Chinese. Use translation apps. Many tourist-oriented businesses will have some English-speaking staff.
85. Is it difficult to navigate Beijing without a local guide? With maps apps (Baidu Maps or Apple Maps, as Google Maps might be unreliable without VPN) and the metro system, it’s manageable. However, a local guide can enhance the experience significantly.
86. What should I do about jet lag? Try to adjust to Beijing time quickly. Get sunlight during the day and avoid naps that are too long.
87. What kind of weather can I expect?
Spring: Mild, pleasant, but can have dust storms.
Summer: Hot and humid, temperatures often exceed 30°C.
Autumn: Cool temperatures and clear skies, often considered the best time.
Winter: Cold, especially in northern Beijing.
88. What should I pack for Beijing? Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Layers are good for changing temperatures. A universal adapter. Depending on the season, bring a hat, sunscreen, or warm clothing.
89. Are public restrooms easily available? Yes, public restrooms are widely available at attractions and in public areas. They vary in cleanliness.
90. Can I use a drone in Beijing? Drone regulations in China are strict and require permits. It’s generally not advisable for tourists to fly drones.
91. Are there any etiquette rules for public transport? Give up your seat for the elderly, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.
92. How to handle touts or hawkers? Politely but firmly decline. Avoid engaging in long conversations if you’re not interested.
93. Can I pay with cash for small purchases? Yes, cash is accepted for small purchases, but mobile payment is more prevalent.
94. What are some unique cultural experiences in Beijing? Learning calligraphy, traditional Chinese painting, or trying a tea ceremony. Visiting a local park to see people practicing tai chi or dancing.
95. Is it safe to drink alcohol in Beijing? Yes, generally safe. Stick to reputable bars and restaurants.
96. What’s the best way to get a true local experience? Explore the hutongs, eat at local eateries, and use public transport.
97. Are there any local markets for fresh produce? Yes, local wet markets are common, offering fresh produce and meat.
98. What’s the tipping culture like? Tipping is not customary in China and can even be considered rude in some situations.
99. Any specific apps I should download before I go? Amap (Gaode Ditu) or Baidu Maps (for navigation, in Chinese but useful with translation), DiDi (for taxis), WeChat Pay/Alipay (for payments), and a reliable VPN.
100. What’s one piece of essential advice for a first-time visitor to Beijing? Be open-minded, embrace the cultural differences, and prepare for a bustling, vibrant, and historically rich experience!