Beijing (北京) is the capital of the most populous country in the world named China with a total population of 1.3 billion people. The capital city Beijing is massive and has a population of 17.5 million people, it’s the second largest city after Shanghai. With time Beijing turned from a traditional structure to a busy commercial district that matches Western standards.
China’s ancient majesty continues to draw travelers to the city. A famous tourist attraction for both local and international travelers is the somber Tiananmen Square, surrounded by Soviet-style buildings & guarded by four marble lions. The square is also the location of Mao’s Mausoleum. Another landmark destination while visiting Beijing is The Forbidden City. The city was the center of Eastern society for about five centuries and nowadays the seat of the Ming & Qing dynasties. To this day, it has remained untouched by the modernity surrounding it.
The Great Wall lies about 70 miles from the city. This majestic wonder can be viewed from Jinshanling and Simatai, where the wall has been kept authentic. A trip here is only meant for the sportive traveler since it involves steep climbs and crumbling stones, which are worthwhile to reach the stunning spectacle view.
Travelers to Beijing need a valid passport and visa. While the city is relatively safe, the common travel concerns include presence of pickpockets, thieves and thick city smog. The best period to visit Beijing is between May and September when there’s the best temperature. On average it does rain more in these months than in periods throughout the year.